Sunday, December 28, 2025

Congress leaders pay heartfelt tributes to Pandit Nehru

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Tehelka WebDesk
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New Delhi:  Congress leaders on Thursday remembered India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 135th birth anniversary, lauding his fearless spirit as the foundation of the country’s democracy.

Pandit Nehru, born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), was educated at prestigious institutions such as Harrow School in London and the University of Cambridge and was a freedom fighter, thinker, writer and statesman.

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, posted a tribute on X, saying, “Respectful salutations to the father of modern India, creator of institutions, first Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru ji on his birth anniversary.”

Reflecting on Pandit Nehru’s legacy, he added, “Democratic, progressive, fearless, visionary, inclusive – these values of ‘Hind ke Jawahar’ are our ideals and the pillars of India and will always remain so.”

Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge shared a quote from late PM Nehru, “There should be unity of mind and heart, there should be a feeling of living together…” and hailed him as “Hind ke Jawahar.”

In a post on X, he wrote, “On the 135th birth anniversary of the ‘Hind ke Jawahar, ‘ the one who took India from zero to the peak, the architect of modern India, the one who made India a developing country in scientific, economic, industrial, and various fields, the one who constantly gave the message of ‘unity in diversity’ to the country, the fearless sentinel of democracy and our source of inspiration, we remember his unprecedented contribution to the country.”

Kharge also shared an excerpt from Pandit Nehru’s ‘The Discovery of India’, which reads, “I was also fully aware of the diversities and divisions of Indian life, of the classes, castes, religions, races, the different levels of cultural development.

“Yet I believe that a country with a long cultural background and a common outlook on life develops a spirit which is it’s own and which passes on to all its children, however different they may be among themselves… It was this spirit of India that I was seeking, not out of idle curiosity, but because I felt it might give me a key to understanding my country and people, some guide to thought and action.”

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi paid homage to Pandit Nehru at Shanti Van in New Delhi.

Earlier, she took to social media, writing, “Fear is the root of all evil in the world. When we achieved independence after decades of struggle and innumerable sacrifices, even then, there were people who used to play politics of scaring and misleading the innocent public. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru ji strongly opposed them and told the common people – ‘Do not be afraid!'”

“People who spread fear among the public cannot be true representatives of the public. Public servants stand in the forefront with their heads held high so that people can live without fear. Pandit Nehru always taught the public to be fearless and serve selflessly, while on the other hand, he kept the public supreme at every stage of nation-building, ” she continued. “Respectful salute to the creator of modern India, ” Priyanka Gandhi concluded, paying her heartfelt tribute to Pandit Nehru.

Yogi Adityanath calls to create safe, supportive environment for Children’s growth

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Tehelka WebDesk
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Lucknow : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday extended his greetings on the occasion of Children’s Day and called for creating a safe and supportive environment for the children to grow.

Taking to X, CM Yogi wrote, “Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the dear children and residents of the state on ‘Children’s Day’!”

“Children are the future of the nation and the foundation of a ‘developed and self-reliant’ India, ” he added.

“Let us create a safe, supportive and conducive environment for children to move forward and give new wings to their dreams. This is also a social and national task, ” CM Yogi highlighted.

Children’s Day is celebrated on November 14 every year, on the occasion of India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s birth anniversary, as a tribute to his affection for children.

On Thursday, India is celebrating the 135th birth anniversary of Pandit Nehru, fondly called ‘Chacha’, who was born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh. He was educated at some of the world’s most renowned institutions including Harrow School in London and University of Cambridge.

‘Chacha Nehru’ was deeply committed to the welfare of children and their education.

After his passing in 1964, it was decided that November 14 would be observed as Children’s Day to honour his legacy. The first official celebration took place in 1965, marking the beginning of an annual tradition to promote children’s rights and emphasise their importance in building India’s future.

The day serves as a significant reminder of India’s commitment to its younger generation. Across the country, schools and institutions organise cultural events, competitions, and activities, celebrating the occasion and promoting awareness around children’s rights, welfare, and education.

PM Modi vows to address tribal concerns and infiltration at Jharkhand rally

By
Tehelka WebDesk
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a large gathering at Sarath Assembly seat in Jharkhand’s Deoghar district on Wednesday, vowed to address the declining tribal population and infiltration in the Santhal region.

“Jharkhand’s pride and identity are its greatest strengths. But if this identity is eroded, what will be left? Statistics show that the tribal population in Santhal has nearly halved. If this trend continues, your lands, forests, and water resources will be taken over by outsiders, ” he warned, accusing the JMM-Congress of facilitating this and providing infiltrators with documentation overnight.

He expressed confidence that a new NDA government will be formed in the state after the elections.

“The overwhelming support seen in public meetings is a clear indication that Jharkhand is ready to create a new chapter in its history. After November 23, I will return to Jharkhand to be present at the swearing-in of the new NDA government, ” he declared.

The Prime Minister noted the enthusiasm of voters in the first phase of the elections, stressing that people’s resolve to protect roti, beti, and maati (livelihood, daughters, and land) is evident at every polling booth. He added that there is significant backing for the BJP’s guarantees, especially in the Santhal region, where he claimed that the JMM-Congress alliance has been completely wiped out.

PM Modi criticised Congress leaders for disrespecting tribal women, questioning the silence of the JMM on these matters. He said that while the BJP elevated a tribal woman to the position of President, the Congress made every effort to block her candidature. “This shows their true intentions, ” he said, urging voters to stay vigilant against attempts to undermine the dignity of tribals.

He also accused the Congress of plotting to dismantle the reservation system for SCs, STs, and OBCs. He alleged that Congress leaders intend to fragment the solidarity among these communities. “In states where SC-ST and OBC populations are significant, Congress has been rejected. Now, they are trying to divide these communities for political gain. But as long as you remain united, you will stay strong, ” he stressed.

Accusing Congress, JMM, and RJD for doing dynastic politics, he said that these parties only cared for their own families and not the public. “I am concerned about your children’s future because you are my family, ” he remarked. He accused these parties of looting public resources meant for the common people to benefit their kin. “What was stolen was rightfully yours — funds meant to build your homes and secure your children’s future.”

Highlighting the BJP-led Central government’s achievements, PM Modi mentioned the establishment of AIIMS and the development of infrastructure in Jharkhand, particularly in Santhal Pargana. He emphasised that the construction of an airport in Deoghar has boosted tourism and employment. “With your blessings and Baba Baidyanath’s grace, we will fulfil our promises, ” he affirmed.

He elaborated on various welfare initiatives, including providing pucca houses under the PM Awas Yojana, ensuring ration distribution, and working to supply water and electricity to every household. He talked about efforts to promote solar power through the PM Surya Yojana, where beneficiaries are receiving up to Rs 80, 000.

Reflecting on past corruption during Congress’ rule, PM Modi stated, “In the old days, only 15 paise of every rupee sent from Delhi reached the people. Now, every single rupee reaches your accounts.” He praised the success of direct benefit transfers through schemes like PM Kisan Nidhi and promised monthly cash support for women through Jharkhand BJP’s Gogo Didi Yojana.

PM Modi asserted that the BJP and NDA had been instrumental in the creation and development of Jharkhand and are committed to making it one of India’s leading states. “Our vision is to see Jharkhand’s flag flying high not just in the country but globally, ” he said.

Month-long dry spell ends with first snowfall of the season

By
Tehelka WebDesk
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Kashmir’s higher reaches saw the season’s first snowfall on Monday, bringing an end to a month-long dry spell, officials said. Light snowfall was reported in the Affarwat area of Gulmarg in Baramulla district and at Sadhna Top in Kupwara district, while Srinagar and other plains received rainfall later in the afternoon.

The precipitation significantly lowered day temperatures, marking the onset of winter in the region. Snowfall was also reported in uninhabited mountainous areas, adding to the wintery transformation across the valley.

Snow also fell at the tourist resort of Sonamarg, located on the border with union territory of Ladakh, and Zojilla pass that connects Jammu and Kashmir with Ladakh, closing it. The snow clearance work started on the pass soon after.  The Drass area of Kargil in Ladakh also received snowfall of about 3 inches. This has brought temperature down in Kashmir Valley and Ladakh

Pollution woes: Delhi witnesses steady rise in deaths due to respiratory diseases, says report  

By
Priyanka Tanwer
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Photo : Naveen Bansal

An increase of five per cent deaths has been registered due to respiratory issues, seemingly fuelled by increased pollution in the national capital over an 18-year period, a report has claimed.

According to the Medical Certification of Cause of Deaths 2023 report released this week, the national capital witnessed a total of 2,769 deaths due to respiratory issues in 2005 while it increased to 8,801 in 2023.

The city saw a total of 56,390 institutional deaths out of which 2,769 were due to respiratory diseases contributing to 4.91 per cent, in 2005, while the number rose to 88,628 in 2023 contributing to 8,801 deaths (9.93 per cent) due to respiratory issues.

Out of these 8,801 deaths last year following respiratory issues, male deaths were 5,236 and female deaths were 3,563 and two were others (gender neutral). 

“Out of 8,801 deaths, 3,606 deaths were due to pneumonia, 13 deaths due to acute bronchitis and acute bronchiolitis and 254 deaths due to asthma,” the report stated.

These respiratory diseases have been identified as respiratory infections, bronchitis and acute bronchitis, asthma, influenza and pneumonia.

Meanwhile, the deaths were also high in children aged between 5-14 years. There have been 11.60 per cent deaths due to diseases of the respiratory system among children.

Out of the total deaths of children, 9.49 per cent of the children died due to Hypoxia, birth asphyxia and other respiratory conditions.

“About 76.13 per cent of infant deaths have been reported to be caused by six major cause of deaths, including slow fetal growth, fetal malnutrition and immaturity (20.45 Per cent), Pneumonia (18.51 Per cent), Septicemia (14.95 Per cent), Hypoxia, birth asphyxia and other respiratory conditions (9.49 Per cent), All other conditions originating in the perinatal period (6.46 Per cent) and Shock, not elsewhere classified (6.27 Per cent),” the report stated.

These deaths can be related to severe air pollution in Delhi. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed the average AQI at 393 in Anand Vihar on Wednesday as air quality remains in the poor category.  

Dr. GC Khinani, Chairman of PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine said that young children, elderly, and those with co-morbidity are the worst hit due to increasing air pollution and suggests avoiding outdoor activities and morning walks.

“Everyone is affected by severe air pollution in Delhi. Healthy people are suffering from sore throats, headaches, irritation, and loss of appetite. I am attending many patients with asthma and bronchitis who are coming with severe breathlessness. The worst affected are young children, elderly, and people with comorbidities,” he said.

He further suggested, “It is important to take precautions and avoid early morning walks. You can go for  a walk when the Sun is bright and use air purifiers at home especially for the people who are having respiratory and cardiac disease.”  

Earlier, Dr. Ajay Swaroop, ENT Surgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital told Tehelka.com that there was an increase in the number of young patients who are coming with breathing difficulty, irritation in the throat, nasal discharge and almost going on to asthma with breathing difficulty.

Providing Better Healthcare Biggest Priority says PM Modi

By
Tehelka WebDesk
-

New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to providing better healthcare and improving the living conditions of the countrymen.

Later in the day, the Prime Minister will visit Bihar to lay the foundation stone for AIIMS Darbhanga as well as multiple development projects worth Rs 12,100 crore across the state.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Providing better health facilities to the countrymen and making their lives easier is our biggest priority. In this direction, today at around 10:45 a.m., along with laying the foundation stone of Darbhanga AIIMS in Bihar, we will have the privilege of inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of many other projects.”

He will travel to Darbhanga and inaugurate, lay the foundation stone, and dedicate multiple development projects to the country.

To provide a major boost to health infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone of AIIMS Darbhanga worth more than Rs 1,260 crore.

It will comprise a super-speciality hospital/AYUSH block, medical college, nursing college, night shelter, and residential facilities, among others.

It will also provide tertiary healthcare facilities to the people of Bihar and nearby regions.

A special focus on development projects will boost connectivity in the region across road and railway sectors.

The Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple National Highway projects worth around Rs 5,070 crore in Bihar.

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the four-lane Galgalia-Araria section of NH-327E. This corridor will provide an alternate route from Araria on the East-West Corridor (NH-27) to the neighbouring West Bengal at Galgalia.

He will also inaugurate two Rail over bridges on NH-322 and NH-31.

The Prime Minister will also inaugurate a major bridge on NH-110 at Bandhuganj, which will connect Jehanabad to Bihar Sharif.

Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone of eight National Highway projects, which include the construction of a two-lane road with paved shoulders from Ramnagar to Rosera, Bihar-West Bengal border to Manihari section of NH-131A, Hajipur to Bachhwara via Mahnar and Mohiuddin Nagar, Sarwan-Chakai section, among others.

He will also lay the foundation stone of Raniganj Bypass on NH-327E; Katoria, Lakhpura, Banka, and Panjwara bypasses on NH-333A; and a four-lane link road from NH-82 to NH-33.

The Prime Minister will dedicate and lay the foundation stone of railway projects worth more than Rs 1,740 crore.

He will lay the foundation stone of the Sonenagar Bypass Railway line from Chiralapothu to Bagha Bishunpur in the Aurangabad district of Bihar, worth more than Rs 220 crore.

He will also dedicate to the nation several railway projects worth more than Rs 1,520 crore. These include the Gauge conversion of the Jhanjharpur-Laukaha Bazar Rail section, the Darbhanga Bypass Railway Line, which will ease the railway traffic congestion at Darbhanga Junction, doubling of railway line projects which will facilitate better regional connectivity, among others.

The Prime Minister will also flag off train services in the Jhanjharpur-Laukaha Bazar section. The introduction of MEMU train services in the section will facilitate easier access to jobs, education, and healthcare facilities in nearby towns and cities.

Prime Minister Modi will dedicate to the nation 18 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras at various railway stations across India. This will ensure the availability of affordable medicines at railway stations for the passengers. It will also promote awareness and acceptance of generic medicines, thereby reducing the overall expenditure on healthcare.

He will lay the foundation stone of multiple initiatives in the petroleum and natural gas sector worth more than Rs 4,020 crore.

In line with the vision of bringing Piped Natural Gas to households and providing clean energy options to commercial and industrial sectors, Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone for the development of a City Gas Distribution network in five major districts of Bihar at Darbhanga, Madhubani, Supaul, Sitamarhi and Sheohar by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited.

He will also lay the foundation stone for a Bitumen manufacturing unit of Barauni Refinery of Indian Oil Corporation Limited that will produce bitumen domestically, helping reduce reliance on imported bitumen.

Registration deadline for PM Internship Programme extended till Nov 15

By
Tehelka WebDesk
-

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has extended the registration deadline for the PM internship programme. As per the ministry the new deadline to apply for the internship will be November 15. The opportunity is open to youth across India, providing a chance to train with the top Indian companies.

The official website stated, “The application window has been extended until 15th November. Take advantage of this opportunity to shape your future! We encourage you to regularly monitor the portal, email, and phone for updates. Please note, there are no registration or application fees.”

Applicants can register online through www.pminternship.mca.gov.in , developed by the ministry.

Over one and half lakh candidates are learnt to have already applied for the Prime Minister Internship Scheme within days of its launch. The scheme launched for the benefit of youth has over 80,000 internship opportunities covering 24 sectors.

The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme is an initiative aimed at providing internship opportunities to youth in top 500 companies of the country. The programme offers youth exposure to real-life business environments across sectors, helping them gain valuable skills and work experience. The scheme aims to offer one crore internships to youth over the next five years.

The scheme, which was announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Union Budget 2024, aims to cover 737 districts across 36 states and union territories over the next few months.

After joining the internship, each intern will receive a monthly assistance of Rs 5,000 for the entire duration of the 12-month internship. Of this amount the partner companies will release Rs 500 each month based on the intern’s attendance and related company policies regarding good conduct.

The government will pay Rs 4,500 to the candidate through the Direct Benefit Transfer to the intern’s Aadhaar seeded bank account.  Additionally, a one-time grant of Rs 6,000 will be provided by the Central government to each intern after joining the internship.

Moreover, insurance coverage shall be provided to each individual intern under insurance schemes, for which premium amount shall be provided by the central government.

Till now 193 companies, in varied sectors like oil, gas, travel, hospitality, banking and financial services have offered to absorb interns under the scheme. Some important companies on board are Muthoot, Jubilant, Maruti Suzuki, Eicher, Larsen and Toubro, ITC and REC among others. Internships under the scheme are scheduled to begin on December 2, 2024. As per the scheme’s pilot project, it is estimated to cost around Rs 800 crore.

Adaptive Defence not strategic choice, but necessity: Defence Minister

By
Tehelka WebDesk
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New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday voiced concerns to create an ‘Adaptive Defence’ in the country, saying that it is not a strategic choice but a necessity for the defence of the nation.

“‘Adaptive Defence’ is not merely a strategic choice but a necessity. As the new threats have evolved, we must also evolve our defence systems and strategies. We should be prepared for all future contingencies. It is more than just protecting our borders, it is about securing our future, ” said the Defence Minister while addressing the Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) in New Delhi.

He added that the ‘Adaptive Defence’ is not merely responding to what has happened but anticipating what could happen, and preparing for it proactively.

“In essence, it involves cultivating a mindset and capability to adapt, innovate and thrive, even in the face of unpredictable and evolving circumstances. Situational awareness, flexibility at strategic and tactical levels, resilience, agility, and integration with futuristic technologies are the keys to understanding and creating ‘Adaptive Defence’. It must be the mantra of our strategic formulations and operational responses, ’ said the Defence Minister.

He also threw light on the diverse range of security challenges faced by India, from traditional border-related threats to unconventional issues such as terrorism, cyber-attacks, and hybrid warfare.

He asserted that the government recognised the need for an ‘Adaptive Defence’ strategy in a changing geopolitical and technological scenario, and has taken several initiatives to build a robust and self-reliant ecosystem.

He said that the traditional notions of war are being reshaped by emerging technologies and evolving strategic partnerships, with new perspectives, doctrines and concepts of operations emerging within the Armed Forces in keeping with the changing nature of threats and challenges.

He termed the present age as Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare where traditional ways to defend have been challenged.

“India is aiming to become a drone hub of the world. Several initiatives have been taken in this regard. This would not only help the Indian economy but also significantly contribute to our Make in India and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat programme, ” the Defence Minister said.

He added that the current geopolitical dynamics and cross-border issues make a collaborative approach to defence essential, adding that the ambiguities of cyberspace, AI and the vast potential of quantum and nanotechnologies further demand collaboration and sharing of knowledge, perspectives, information and strategies, if possible.

He said that the government recognised the need for an adaptive defence strategy in a changing geopolitical and technological scenario, and has taken several initiatives to build a robust and self-reliant ecosystem.

“It includes establishing the institution of the Chief of Defence Staff, promoting jointness among the three Services, improvising the training curriculum and forging new defence partnerships around the world, ” he said.

The Defence Minister also expressed confidence that by bringing together policymakers, military experts and scholars, the Delhi Defence Dialogue will generate innovative ideas and collaborative strategies to enhance the country’s defence posture.

He termed it a vital initiative that aspires to strengthen the strategic vision emphasising a comprehensive approach and facilitating informed discussions that contribute to national, regional and global security.

Gunfight erupts between security forces and militants in North Kashmir

By
Tehelka WebDesk
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A gunbattle erupted between security forces and militants in the Nagmarg forest area of North Kashmir on Tuesday morning.

According to officials, the clash began during a search operation launched by joint security teams in the region. As the teams approached a suspected hideout, militants opened fire, prompting a retaliatory response from the forces, leading to an ongoing encounter.

This marks the fifth such encounter in North Kashmir in recent days, following similar incidents in Bandipora, Kupwara, and Sopore. The situation remains tense, with intermittent firing continuing at the time of the report.

Delhi-NCR struggles with Hazardous Air Quality as AQI hits alarming levels

By
Tehelka WebDesk
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New Delhi : Air quality in Delhi-NCR has reached alarming levels, with the average AQI hovering around 355, classified as “very poor” by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The worst-affected areas include Anand Vihar (404), Jahangirpuri (418), and Wazirpur (424), placing them in the “severe” category. Surrounding NCR cities, such as Faridabad (205) and Gurugram (234), are also experiencing poor air quality.

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), implementing stricter regulations on polluting sites, vehicles, and industries. Over 600 mechanical road-sweeping machines, anti-smog guns, and water sprinklers have been deployed.

The Delhi government’s Winter Action Plan introduces 21 targeted measures, including a month-long anti-open burning campaign, dust control efforts, drone surveillance, and roadside monitoring by 588 teams. Authorities have also requested that neighboring states intensify pollution control to support regional air quality improvements.With air quality in the “severe” range in parts of the city, citizens are advised to limit outdoor activities as the government ramps up actions to combat winter pollution.

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