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US Warns Iran of ‘Severe Consequences’ in Case of New Attacks at UN

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New York, October 29, 2024 – In a stern message to Iran, the United States has warned of “severe consequences” for any further attacks, emphasizing the need for de-escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

“We will not hesitate to act in self-defense. Let there be no confusion. The United States does not want to see further escalation. We believe this should be the end of the direct exchange of fire between #Israel and #Iran,” said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, at the UN Security Council session.

The U.S. ambassador’s comments come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, as exchanges of missile strikes between Israel and Iran have raised international concerns about a potential regional war. The U.S. position reflects a dual approach of deterrence and diplomacy, discouraging further aggression while signaling a willingness to respond militarily if required.

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A Complex History of U.S.-Iran Relations

The relationship between the United States and Iran has been turbulent for decades. Before 1979, Iran was one of the U.S.’s closest allies in the Middle East, with strong political and economic ties. However, the Islamic Revolution in 1979 resulted in the overthrow of the Shah’s regime, and relations deteriorated rapidly after the U.S. embassy in Tehran was seized, leading to the hostage crisis.

In the following years, mutual distrust deepened, especially after the U.S. imposed sanctions over Iran’s nuclear program and alleged sponsorship of terrorism. Despite a brief thaw with the 2015 nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), relations soured again when the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from the agreement in 2018 under the Trump administration, reinstating economic sanctions.

The tensions between the two nations have since been exacerbated by military incidents, such as the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani by a U.S. drone strike. Though the Biden administration has expressed interest in diplomacy, the two sides have struggled to find common ground, with the situation further complicated by Iran’s regional activities and support for militant groups.

The U.S.’s warning at the UN indicates that while Washington prefers de-escalation, it is prepared to act decisively to protect its interests and allies in the region. As regional powers and the international community monitor the situation closely, the coming days will reveal whether diplomacy can prevail over conflict.

256 Km Railway Doubling Project in North Bihar to Boost Connectivity Between Mithilanchal, Nepal, and North-East India-Union Railway Minister

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New railway line between Errupalem and Namburu via Amaravati to boost connectivity and economic growth in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana- Shri Ashwani Vaishnaw

Indian Railways Deploys Over 7,000 Special Trains for Diwali and Chhath Festivals, to Serve More Than 1 Crore Passengers

Railway Projects to Reduce 168 Crore Kg of CO2 Emissions and Generate 106 Lakh Employment Days

Delhi: Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, today addressed the media at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi. He provided detailed insights into two major railway infrastructure projects approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) which will significantly boost connectivity in Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

While discussing the details of the project and its benefits to the Mithilanchal region and connectivity to the North East and Nepal, the Minister highlighted that the first project, involving the doubling of the Narkatiaganj-Raxaul-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur sections, will cover a total distance of 256 kilometers. This strategic project will strengthen connectivity to Nepal, North-East India, and border areas, facilitating the movement of both passenger and goods trains, thereby driving the socio-economic growth of the region.

He also said that the project will benefit 46 stations and involve the construction of 310 bridges, including 3 major bridges, 99 medium bridges, and 208 small bridges. A new Bagmati bridge is also part of the plan, which will significantly improve port connectivity to North Bihar and the Mithilanchal region. This will enable smoother transportation towards the North East and contribute to the development of a religious corridor. He also underlined the initiative will increase capacity by 2.25 times, aided by the installation of Kavach technology, which enhances operational efficiency and safety. The project is expected to be completed within five years, marking a major step towards improving connectivity and fostering regional development.

While addressing the Telugu media at Rail Bhawan, the Minister highlighted the importance of the 57-kilometer new railway line between Errupalem and Namburu via Amaravati, which has an estimated investment of ₹2245 crore. He noted that this project includes the construction of a 3.2-kilometer-long bridge over the Krishna River, which will significantly improve connectivity between major cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata.

The new rail line will traverse through NTR Vijayawada and Guntur districts of Andhra Pradesh and Khammam district of Telangana. The Minister emphasized that this project will provide direct rail connectivity to Amaravati, the proposed capital of Andhra Pradesh, improving mobility for both industries and the local population. This will enhance operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways, boosting economic growth and regional development.

Answering a question from media, the minister said that the Government’s focus on railway modernization is driven by the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. By utilizing historical and satellite data to enhance design accuracy, the Government is moving beyond traditional toposheet methods. This shift ensures better planning and execution, especially in flood-prone areas, where accurate data is crucial for resilient railway infrastructure. The new railway track will be developed as a semi-high-speed track (up to 160KMH) by removing unnecessary curvature and installing Kavach technology to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

In view of the upcoming Deepawali and Chhath festivals, the Minister commended the efforts of Indian Railways for operating more than 7,000 special trains to accommodate the significant surge in passenger traffic. Indian Railways is set to carry more than 1 crore passengers during the festive period from 1st October to 30th November 2024, deploying more than 7,000 Puja/Diwali/Chhath Special trains, a 60% increase from the 4,429 trains operated last year. These special trains are being run in addition to the election special trains for Maharashtra and Jharkhand.

He further said that for Diwali, 136 extra trains have been scheduled daily, with special arrangements at various stations including additional holding areas, extra ticket counters, catering units, drinking water facilities, and enhanced security. Similarly, for Chhath Puja, 145 extra special trains will operate on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th of November 2024, ensuring smooth travel during key ritual days like नहाए-खाए, खरना, शाम का अर्घ्य, and सुबह का अर्घ्य on the 5th to 8th of November 2024. Indian Railways will facilitate the movement of an additional 2 lakh passengers daily, ensuring seamless travel for millions of devotees during these festive occasions.

The Minister also outlined the environmental and economic benefits of the railway projects, emphasizing that the Railways, as an environment-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation, will play a crucial role in achieving the country’s climate goals while significantly reducing logistics costs. He highlighted that the projects will contribute to the reduction of 168 crore kilograms of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to the plantation of 7 crore trees. Additionally, these projects will generate direct employment for approximately 106 lakh human-days, further boosting the economy and creating job opportunities. This underscores the Government’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth through green and efficient infrastructure.

Olencio Simoes Urges Authorities to Act on Former Sarpanch’s Hunger Strike over Controversial Sancoale Project

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Cortalim, Goa – Cortalim constituency leader Olencio Simoes has urgently written to the Chief Minister, Deputy Collector, MLA, Chief Town Planner, and Chairman of the Mormugao Planning and Development Authority (MPDA) demanding immediate intervention regarding an ongoing hunger strike by Premanand P. Naik, the former Sarpanch of Sancoale village. Naik has been protesting against the permits issued for the Infra/Parmesh Construction project at Survey No. 257/1 in Sancoale, citing environmental and planning violations.

Simoes highlighted in his letter that Naik’s hunger strike has now entered its fifth day, raising serious concerns among local residents. The community fears the construction project could cause irreversible ecological damage, infringe on planning regulations, and threaten the livelihoods of local inhabitants.

Despite multiple appeals to the concerned authorities, the grievances of the community remain unaddressed, leading the former Sarpanch to undertake the hunger strike as a desperate measure. Simoes stressed that the health of the former Sarpanch is deteriorating rapidly, adding urgency to the situation.

Simoes appealed to the authorities to review the licenses issued by the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, the Panchayat, and the MPDA for the project. “The unrest in the community is escalating, and prompt action is required to prevent further deterioration of the situation,” Simoes warned.

The people of Sancoale and the broader community are now looking to the government for swift action. Local residents are demanding a reassessment of the permits to ensure that both environmental and community concerns are adequately addressed before construction proceeds further.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna to Become 51st Chief Justice of India

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Justice Sanjiv Khanna, born on May 14, 1960, is set to become the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. Khanna, who has had an illustrious career in law, will assume office as the Chief Justice of India (CJI), continuing a legacy deeply rooted in the Indian judiciary.

Legal Journey and Background

Justice Khanna has served as a judge of the Supreme Court since January 18, 2019. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court, he was a judge at the Delhi High Court, a position previously held by his father, Dev Raj Khanna. His father retired from the Delhi High Court in 1985, and his mother, Saroj Khanna, was a Hindi lecturer at Lady Shri Ram College in Delhi.

Khanna completed his schooling at Modern School, New Delhi, in 1977. He graduated from St. Stephen’s College in 1980 and pursued law at the Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. Enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi in 1983, his judicial career began with his appointment as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court on June 24, 2005. He was made a permanent judge on February 20, 2006.

Role and Notable Legacy

Apart from his judicial duties, Justice Khanna currently serves as the ex-officio executive chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). His family has a distinguished judicial history, with his uncle, Justice Hans Raj Khanna, remembered for his dissenting judgment in the 1976 ADM Jabalpur case (also known as the Habeas Corpus case). Justice Hans Raj Khanna’s dissent became a landmark in India’s judicial history, establishing the basic structure doctrine, which ensures that certain constitutional principles cannot be amended even by Parliament.

Justice Khanna’s tenure as the 51st Chief Justice will reflect his deep commitment to justice and continuity within the judiciary, just as his predecessors have shaped the legal landscape of India.

GRE Celebrates 76th Birth Anniversary of Late Matanhy Saldanha

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Cansualim, Goa, October 24, 2024 – Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott (GRE) commemorated the 76th birth anniversary of its late General Secretary, Matanhy Saldanha, with a tribute-filled celebration attended by key dignitaries, including South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes. The event also saw participation from former Sarpanch and Panch members of Velsao, former ZP of Sancoale Vasant Naik, Panch Francisco Braganza, and members of Niz Ramponkarancho Ekvott and Goencho Ekvott.

MP Viriato Fernandes criticized Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar for failing to protect the livelihoods of Goa’s traditional fishing community. He remarked that while the minister had undertaken trips abroad, such as Norway, the state budget allocation had sidelined the interests of local fishermen. “Seventy percent of the budget for 2024-25 has been diverted to cage fishing and aquaculture, leaving only 30% for Niz Ramponkars (traditional fishermen),” Fernandes said, adding that such decisions threaten the future of the fishing community.

Remembering the Legacy of Matanhy Saldanha

Agnelo Rodrigues, President of GRE, emphasized the lasting impact of Matanhy Saldanha’s efforts. “It’s been 12 years since Matanhy left us, but his dedication to the fishing community, land, and environment still guides us. Thanks to his relentless work, the fishing community of Goa has endured,” he stated.

Olencio Simoes, General Secretary of GRE, described Saldanha as a “true warrior” of Goa who fought tirelessly for the state’s environment and culture. Simoes highlighted that Matanhy played a pivotal role in the creation of significant legislation such as the Goa Marine Fishing Regulation Act and the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules, which continue to benefit not only the fishing community of Goa but also that of India and the world.

Call for Stricter Regulations and Protection of Fisheries

Simoes stressed the need to amend the Goa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, which has remained unchanged for 44 years, to address contemporary challenges. He urged the Goa government to introduce stricter regulations to prevent illegal fishing, overexploitation of resources, and juvenile fish capture. He also recommended increasing fines, extending the monsoon fishing ban, and implementing advanced monitoring systems to secure the future of Goa’s fisheries.

“The younger generation is leaving for foreign shores because of dwindling fish stocks,” Simoes remarked, expressing concern over the future of the community.

This event highlighted the enduring influence of Matanhy Saldanha’s legacy and underscored the urgent need for reforms to safeguard Goa’s fishing industry.

Familiarisation and Community Awareness Program Held at Ravindra Bhavan Baina

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Baina, Goa, October 24, 2024 – The Collectorate of South Goa, in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), conducted a Familiarisation and Community Awareness Program today from 10 AM at the Mini Theatre Hall, Ravindra Bhavan Baina.

The program aimed to educate the public on disaster preparedness and life-saving techniques. NDRF officials provided insights into various types of disasters and shared practical methods to safeguard lives during emergencies. They also demonstrated how to create life-saving equipment using everyday household items, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency.

Shri Pravinjay Pandit, Mamlatdar of Mormugao Taluka, addressed the attendees, delivering a brief speech on the importance of disaster awareness for the general public. Shri Pramod Rai, Commander of the NDRF, conducted the training sessions, sharing vital information and practical techniques to enhance preparedness.

The event saw the participation of key local figures, including Shri Girish Borkar, Chairperson of Mormugao Municipal Council, Smt. Shammi Salkar, Councillor, and Shri Damodar, Councillor. Several Panchayat members, college students, and officials from various government departments also attended, demonstrating strong community support for the initiative.

This collaborative effort between the South Goa administration and the NDRF highlights the importance of proactive measures and public awareness in managing disasters effectively.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Files Nomination for Wayanad By-election

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Wayanad, Kerala – In a significant political development, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra filed her nomination today for the by-election in the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat. This by-election became necessary after her brother, Rahul Gandhi, resigned from the seat earlier this year.

In an emotional message, Priyanka expressed her gratitude toward the people of Wayanad for the love and support shown to Rahul Gandhi and now to her. “Filing my nomination for the Wayanad by-election today was a moment filled with emotion. The love you’ve shown to Rahul Ji, and now to me, is something I carry with me every step of the way,” she stated.

She further emphasized her commitment to representing the people and addressing their concerns. “Wayanad’s strength lies in its people—their kindness, resilience, and belief in a better future. I will listen to your voices, raise the issues that matter to you, and work tirelessly for the progress of Wayanad. To every supporter, every UDF worker, and every family that stood by us—thank you from the depths of my heart,” she said.

The Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, located in northern Kerala, has a diverse electorate, including tribal communities, farmers, and urban populations. It is known for its scenic beauty but also faces challenges such as environmental issues, agrarian distress, and the need for improved infrastructure.

In the 2019 general elections, Wayanad gained national attention when Rahul Gandhi, then the Congress President, decided to contest from the seat in addition to his traditional stronghold of Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. His decision was seen as a strategic move to strengthen Congress’s presence in South India. Rahul won the Wayanad seat by a landslide, securing over 65% of the votes, defeating his closest rival, P.P. Suneer of the CPI, by a margin of more than 4 lakh votes. Priyanka Gandhi’s candidacy is being viewed as an effort by the Congress to retain its influence in Kerala and send a strong message about the Gandhi family’s commitment to the constituency.

Priyanka Gandhi’s entry into the electoral race has rejuvenated Congress supporters in Wayanad, and her promise to address key local issues has struck a chord with many. All eyes will now be on the constituency as it heads into a high-stakes by-election.

Allegations of Injustice Against Reserved Category Candidates in GMC PG Medical Admissions

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Panaji, 23 October 2024:
Sharad Chopdekar, Chairman of the OBC Cell of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee, has submitted a formal complaint to Adv. Manohar Adpaiker, Chairman of the OBC Commission for Goa, alleging injustice and discrimination against reserved category candidates during the counseling process for Postgraduate (PG) medical seats at Goa Medical College (GMC) and Goa Dental College (GDC).

In his representation, Chopdekar pointed out procedural flaws in the allocation of clinical seats under the 50% state quota for PG medical admissions, arguing that reserved category candidates (SC, ST, and OBC) were denied fair access to preferred clinical specialties during the counseling sessions for the academic year 2023-24.

The complaint highlights that while the government had reserved 2% seats for SC, 12% for ST, and 27% for OBC candidates as per a notification dated 5 May 2023, these reservations were overlooked during the initial rounds of counseling. As per the revised admission rules, notified on 8 August 2023, 64 seats (32 clinical and 32 non-clinical) were offered under the 50% state quota. However, all 36 candidates from the unreserved category were given the first opportunity to choose seats, leading to the depletion of available clinical seats before reserved category candidates were invited to make their selections.

This counseling procedure, Chopdekar alleges, deprived SC, ST, and OBC candidates of their rightful access to clinical specialties such as General Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Radiology. The letter further reveals that despite the roster system earmarking specific positions for reserved category candidates, these slots were instead allocated to unreserved candidates.

According to Chopdekar, key roster points — such as 9, 17, 25, and 34 for ST candidates, and multiple positions including 4, 8, 13, and 15 for OBC candidates — were not honored. As a result, SC candidates could not secure any clinical seat, while ST candidates obtained none of the seven seats allotted to them. OBC candidates were left with non-clinical options, managing to secure 12 out of 16 non-clinical seats, but failing to gain access to high-demand clinical departments.

Chopdekar cited a letter dated 24 May 2021 from the Dean of GMC, which confirms the roster system’s guidelines and seat allocations. He emphasized that the failure to adhere to the notified 100-point roster has led to a violation of the reservation policy, undermining the constitutional rights of reserved category candidates.

He urged Adv. Manohar Adpaiker to address the issue urgently, requesting a review of the counseling process to prevent further discrimination. Chopdekar stressed that the government’s reservation policy would be rendered meaningless if the selection process continues to favor unreserved candidates, calling for necessary amendments in the admission rules to ensure fair implementation in future counseling sessions.

The OBC leader concluded his appeal by asking the commission to take proactive steps to restore confidence among the state’s reserved category population and ensure equal opportunities in higher medical education.

This complaint brings to light the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing specialized education in Goa, raising concerns about the efficacy and fairness of the state’s reservation system.

This ongoing issue is likely to draw attention from various political and social groups, prompting further discussions on the implementation of reservation policies in higher education.

Fair Price Shop Dealers Meet Held in Panaji to Discuss Key Developments

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Panaji, October 21: A meeting of Fair Price Shop (FPS) dealers for North Goa was held at the Institute Menezes Braganza (IMB), Panaji, to deliberate on various aspects of the FPS system. The event aimed to address challenges faced by FPS dealers and introduce new initiatives to ensure the system’s financial sustainability.

In his welcome address, Shri Jayant Tari, Director of the Department of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, provided details about the forthcoming “Compensation to FPS Dealers” scheme. The scheme, which will be launched soon, seeks to improve the financial viability of fair price shops across the state. Shri Tari emphasized that this initiative would play a critical role in strengthening the economic structure of FPS operations.

He also urged all FPS dealers to ensure that the e-KYC process for ration card beneficiaries is completed by the end of this month. This directive aligns with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, aiming to streamline the distribution of essential commodities through the Public Distribution System (PDS).

The meeting provided an opportunity for FPS dealers to raise concerns, discuss operational issues, and explore solutions to enhance service delivery under the PDS framework.

The Department reiterated its commitment to supporting FPS dealers and ensuring effective implementation of the PDS for the benefit of citizens.

Usgao and Shiroda Declared TB-Free, Goa Sets Benchmark in TB Eradication

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Goa, October 21, 2024 — Health Minister Shri Vishwajit P. Rane announced that Village Panchayats Usgao and Shiroda have become the first in Goa to be declared TB-free, marking a significant milestone in the state’s fight against tuberculosis. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the ‘TB Mukt Panchayat’ initiative launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to empower rural communities in combating TB.

“We are proud to announce that Village Panchayat Usgao and Shiroda are the first in Goa to be declared TB-free, showcasing our collective efforts to eliminate TB,” said Rane.

Goa has implemented several measures to achieve this goal, including free diagnostic tests, comprehensive treatment services, and nutritional support for TB patients. Numerous individuals have benefited from Direct Benefit Transfers through the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, and nutritional kits have been distributed by Nikshay Mitras to ensure patient recovery and well-being.

In a step toward raising awareness, Minister Rane attended the Award Ceremony for TB Mukt Panchayats and winners of the Video & Reel Making Competition on the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). The event, organized by the Directorate of Health Services – Goa in collaboration with the Entertainment Society of Goa, aimed to promote awareness about sustained healthcare efforts needed to eliminate TB by 2025.

During the event held in Panaji, Minister Rane presented awards to various TB Mukt Panchayats along with the winners of the reel-making competition. The ceremony saw the presence of brand ambassadors Mrs. Varsha Usgaonkar and Mr. John D’Silva, Director of Health Services Dr. Vandana Dhume, and other dignitaries.

“We remain committed to making Goa TB-free,” Rane reiterated, urging communities to continue their efforts in public health to eliminate tuberculosis by 2025.

This achievement serves as an inspiring example of collaborative governance, setting a model for other states in India. Goa’s success story is a testament to the power of local engagement in tackling public health challenges.

#TheGoaModel #TBMuktGoa