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Why AAP-ruled Delhi gives all Lok Sabha seats to BJP?

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Manoj Kumar Pathak

In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, let us ponder over the electoral mood of the national capital’s voters. The Emerging World’s analysis of all the recently held pre-poll surveys suggests all seven Delhi seats would go to the BJP if elections were held today. Now the question arises, Why do Delhi seats go to the BJP despite the AAP winning the Assembly polls decisively? Why does a state that has overwhelmingly voted for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in two consecutive Assembly polls give all the Lok Sabha seats to the BJP? Experts say there are several factors at play.


The AAP made its debut in the 2013 Delhi election and managed to get 28 of the 70 Assembly seats. It formed a government in alliance with the Congress that didn’t last a full five-year term. In the elections of 2015 and 2020, the AAP won 67 and 62 seats, respectively.
The BJP, however, won all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi in both 2014 and 2019. Despite a would-be Congress-AAP alliance, the pre-poll surveys show the BJP getting 57% of the vote share in Delhi. The AAP-Congress coalition if materializes, which would fare well in Punjab, fails to dent the BJP’s seats in Delhi.


“Punjab’s demographic composition is different from Delhi’s. It has always had an uneasy relationship with the Centre, even when the Congress party was in power in the 1970s and 80s,” Piyush Gautam, a poll analyst said. “This alliance [between the Congress and the AAP] in both Delhi and Punjab is not easy. Because in Punjab, AAP feels that they can gain these seats even without the Congress. So, you have seen the CM of Punjab making statements that we don’t need to have an alliance. And in Delhi, even if they come together, they will not be able to make any dent,” adds Gautam.


Why do two states give such different results with the same combination? One of the factors is different voting patterns in Assembly and parliamentary elections. “It’s a split vote, and it’s happening across India, across all the states. Every state, if you look into the vote share of the last assembly and the last Lok Sabha, you will see somewhere between 10% to 25% jump in favor of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections,” said Satyendra Singh, a political commentator.


There is an additional factor at work in Delhi that swings votes in favor of AAP in Assembly polls but doesn’t work for it in the Lok Sabha polls, according to political analyst Ramendra Dwivedi. “Delhi’s story is very simple. It is due to the Muslim vote that swings. In Assembly elections, Muslim votes tend to favor Arvind Kejriwal’s party, and in the Lok Sabha elections, they favor the Congress. So that is why there is a kind of mismatch,” Dwivedi said. Going by that logic, the seats of Chandni Chowk or East Delhi, where the minorities are in big numbers, could be foul areas of the Congress and the AAP. They can come together and put up a tough fight for the BJP.


However, what needs to be kept in mind is that the minority factor comes into play in Assembly elections because Assembly constituencies are smaller, and the numbers are enough to decide the fate of the seats. That isn’t the case in the Lok Sabha polls. Experts say that after the delimitation process of 2008, the entire composition of the Delhi seats has changed. In Delhi, there is not even a single Lok Sabha seat now that can be decided by voters of the minority community, according to the experts on The Emerging World.


Apart from that, the Modi factor plays an important role in the Lok Sabha election in Delhi like it does in most other places. That helps in the consolidation of votes for the BJP. The other reason could be that the people of Delhi still see the AAP as a regional party despite its efforts to grow in several states. So, multiple factors make Delhi seats go to the Aam Aadmi Party in Assembly polls but to the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. That would even be the case if the 2024 Lok Sabha polls were held today or later on.


Another renowned political analyst Jeev Kant Jha said,’ Whether it will be a triangular fight or a direct contest with a single I.N.D.I.A candidate in each Lok Sabha seat in Delhi, the BJP is confident of maintaining its dominance over all seven Lok Sabha constituencies in the national capital for the third consecutive time.’ The party’s eagerness to maintain a 7-0 track record stems from its recent Assembly election victories and the discordant signals emerging from the rival I.N.D.I.A bloc on seat-sharing.

The AAP and the Congress are still determining the seats on which they will fight against the BJP, meaning that only one opposition candidate will face each BJP candidate. However, the buzz is that the AAP wants the Congress to fight on only two seats, while the Congress is keen on contesting at least three. If the seat-sharing talks fail, the two may be forced to go it alone on all seven seats.
BJP national vice president and Delhi unit in charge Baijayant Panda said that the BJP’s win in the recent assembly elections in Hindi heartland states has created a positive atmosphere for the party, and there should be no doubts about the results of the Lok Sabha elections.


“We are winning all seven seats in Delhi, but we will have to make efforts to increase the victory margin, for which we will have to contact the beneficiaries of the Central government schemes and talk to them,” said Panda. A source inside the I.N.D.I.A bloc said, “The contrast seen between the alliances in the recent elections raises many questions about whether it will continue till the Lok Sabha election or not.”
Psephologist Sanjay Dubey said that there is constant friction within the opposition alliance and the people who make decision for the I.N.D.I.A bloc has to take control of the alliance. Dubey added, “If they are agreeing upon it, then there should be further concrete steps. If there is a cricket team and there is no captain, who will give direction to the team?”

Stunning Jewelry Trends That Are Poised to Take Over in 2022

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Red is Red hot now-a-days

What’s the  the chicest way to add the cherry on top of any look? Jewelry, of course! Bits, bobbles, bracelets, and earrings—there’s a lot to love about these swoon-worthy accessories. And lucky for you, we’ve been checking out all the stunning jewelry trends are going to be taking over 2022. Safe to say, you’re going to love what’s coming (trust).

From bright colors and bold statement earrings to cute and and seriously fun charms, there’s something for every jewel lover out there. 

To give you a peek, we’ve rounded up the best jewelry trends you’ll be seeing everywhere next year. 

Congress stages protest over the Pegasus row in front of Raj Bhawan

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Ranchi: Demanding a Supreme Court-monitored judicial inquiry in the espionage case regarding hacking of phones of opposition leaders, senior military officials, election commissioners, journalists and some other dignitaries through the Israeli spyware Pegasus leaders and workers of Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee demonstrated in front of the Raj Bhawan on Thursday demanding the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah.

Under the leadership of State Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon a small protest was held in front of the Raj Bhawan. The party had postponed the march and procession in the wake of the instructions received regarding the corona guidelines.

Addressing the event state Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon said that monitoring of opponents and hacking of phones by the central government through the Israeli spyware Pegasus is completely unconstitutional and illegal, it also violates the powers conferred under Article 21. Central government had encroached into ones private space, therefore the Supreme Court should take suo moto cognizance of this matter and order a judicial inquiry, he said, adding that there is talk of investigation of such immoral acts in other countries as well.

He said that this espionage work is possible only at the behest of the Prime Minister. The BJP-led central government, finding itself weak is engaged in spying on the opponents he said, adding that it was through this that work was done to break the governments in Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh whereas the Israeli government clearly says that it can be used only and only by the government to curb terrorist and criminal activities.

(EW correspondent)

Chief Minister Attends 8th Edition of Bengal Global Business Summit 2025

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

EW News: Chief Minister Hemant Soren participated in the inaugural ceremony of the 8th edition of the Bengal Global Business Summit 2025 at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata. The two-day summit is being organized under the chairmanship of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and is witnessing participation from several distinguished guests, entrepreneurs, and investors from across the nation and abroad. In his address, Chief Minister Hemant Soren invited entrepreneurs and investors to consider Jharkhand for their business ventures. He emphasized that such summits foster better trade relationships between states and countries, creating opportunities for growth through investment and new technologies. He said, The collaboration and participation between states is essential for building a strong, developed nation. Events like the Global Business Summit play a significant role in this. Significance of Global Business Summits: CM Hemant Soren highlighted the importance of such events in strengthening trade relationships and fostering development in various sectors through investments and technology.
Role of Jharkhand in the Nation’s Economy: He reiterated Jharkhand’s crucial role in the country’s economy, being home to around 40% of the nation’s mineral resources. The state is a major producer of raw materials for various industries, and has long been a hub for mineral-based industries.
Investment Opportunities in Jharkhand: Emphasizing the vast potential in Jharkhand, the Chief Minister invited entrepreneurs to invest in sectors beyond minerals, including arts, culture, and tourism. He stated that Jharkhand is India’s largest producer of Tasar silk and has great potential in the textile sector. The state’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for tourism investment.

Collaboration Between Jharkhand and West Bengal: CM Hemant Soren also noted the similarity in activities between Jharkhand and West Bengal, stating that both states are progressing in parallel and working towards mutual development. The Chief Minister concluded by inviting entrepreneurs and investors to explore the vast opportunities in Jharkhand, assuring them of full government support in fostering industrial growth and development.

Book ‘PM Power’ Launched at New Delhi World Book Fair

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New Delhi, EW correspondent: The book “PM Power”, written by senior journalists Amit Kumar and Ritu Srivastava, was officially launched on Monday at the Diamond Books stall during the New Delhi World Book Fair, held at Bharat Mandapam. The book’s release ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent personalities, including Diamond Books Director N.K. Verma, senior writer Awadhesh Srivastava, Sandeep Sharma, Sunil Singh (Director of Pharmas Vision), religious leader Haridas Maharaj Peethadhish Pal Baba, Dr. R.P. Singh, filmmaker Dinesh Singh, along with many other writers and journalists. The book has been published by Diamond Books. 

Speaking on the occasion, N.K. Verma stated that the book elaborates on how India’s Prime Ministers have used their power to shape the nation’s destiny. He emphasized that PM Power provides insights into crucial decisions made by various Indian Prime Ministers, many of which remain lesser-known to the public. 

Author Amit Kumar expressed confidence that the book would appeal to readers interested in Indian politics. He highlighted how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives, such as Lakhpati Didi and Drone Didi, are designed to uplift women and contribute to national development. 

Co-author Ritu Srivastava added that the Ayodhya Ram Temple issue could have been resolved during former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar Singh’s tenure. According to her, Chandrashekhar had brought discussions between Hindu and Muslim communities to a decisive stage. However, his coalition partners withdrew support upon learning about these developments, which led to the issue being stalled. 

Religious leader Pal Baba encouraged people to read books like PM Power to gain deeper political insights. Following the launch, the book saw significant demand from readers, prompting the publisher to announce that an English edition will be released soon.

India’s Agricultural Transformation through Budgetary Support and Policy Initiatives

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The budgetary support for agriculture has grown exponentially, from ₹11,915.22 crore in 2008-09 to ₹1,25,035 crore in 2023-24

EW correspondent:

New Delhi: Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy, ensuring food security, generating employment, and contributing significantly to GDP. Over the years, the Government of India has significantly increased budget allocations to the agricultural sector, reflecting its commitment to fostering growth, improving productivity, and securing farmer incomes. The transformation is evident in rising food grain production, increased Minimum Support Prices (MSP), and farmer-centric initiatives like PM-KISAN and e-NAM.

The budgetary support for agriculture has grown exponentially, from ₹11,915.22 crore in 2008-09 to ₹1,25,035 crore in 2023-24. This increased investment underlines the government’s focus on modernizing the sector, supporting farmers, and ensuring sustainable agricultural growth.

India’s food grain production has surged due to improved agricultural practices and policy support. The total production has grown from 198.4 million tonnes in 2004-05 to an estimated 330.5 million tonnes in 2022-23. This growth is complemented by an expansion in the gross area under major crops, which has increased from 120.2 million hectares in 2004-05 to 132.1 million hectares in 2022-23.

The real Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture, forestry, and fishing has witnessed consistent growth. From ₹13.85 lakh crore in 2004-05, it rose to ₹26.42 lakh crore in 2022-23. The annual growth rate of real GVA, which was 1.4% in 2004-05, increased to 2.1% in 2022-23, indicating improved efficiency and diversification in agricultural activities.

Minimum Support Price (MSP) Enhancements

To ensure financial stability for farmers, the government has consistently increased MSPs:

– Paddy (Common) MSP has risen from ₹850 per quintal in 2008-09 to ₹2,183 per quintal in 2023-24.

– Wheat MSP has increased from ₹1,080 per quintal in 2008-09 to ₹2,275 per quintal in 2023-24.

– The total MSP paid to farmers has tripled, with paddy payments increasing from ₹4.40 lakh crore (2004-13) to ₹12.51 lakh crore (2014-24) and wheat payments rising from ₹2.27 lakh crore to ₹5.44 lakh crore in the same period.

Farmer-Centric Initiatives

Several schemes have been introduced to support farmers financially and structurally:

– PM-KISAN: Launched in 2019, it provides direct income support of ₹6,000 per year to farmers. Over ₹3.16 lakh crore has been disbursed to 11 crore farmers in 18 installments.

– PM Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Since its launch in 2016, ₹1.40 lakh crore in claims has been disbursed to 18.52 crore farmers, offering financial security against crop losses.

– Kisan Credit Card (KCC): Over the past decade, the number of KCCs issued has increased from 1,285.37 lakh (2012-13) to 1,895.81 lakh (2019), providing easy credit access to farmers.

– Institutional Credit Growth: Credit flow to agriculture has nearly tripled from ₹8.5 lakh crore in 2014-15 to ₹25.48 lakh crore in 2023-24.

Technological and Infrastructure Advancements

– e-NAM (National Agriculture Market): 1,361 mandis across 23 states and 4 UTs have been integrated, allowing 1.79 crore farmers to access better market prices. Transactions worth ₹3 lakh crore have taken place on this platform.

– Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF): A fund of ₹1 lakh crore has been launched, of which ₹52,738 crore has been sanctioned for 87,548 projects, enhancing post-harvest management and storage infrastructure.

– Millet Promotion: Recognizing millets as a ‘superfood,’ the government has increased investment in millet production, reaching 175.72 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. A Global R&D Hub for Millets has been established with ₹250 crore allocated from 2023-26.

Food Grain Procurement and Distribution

Government procurement has played a vital role in ensuring fair farmer compensation and national food security. From 2004-14 to 2014-24, paddy procurement increased from 4,590 LMT to 6,900 LMT, while wheat procurement rose from 2,140 LMT to 3,072 LMT. This significant growth demonstrates the effectiveness of MSP policies and procurement strategies.

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Record Allocation for Indian Railways, Focus on Safety & Expansion: Ashwini Vaishnaw

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Indian Railways has projected growth in freight loading, passenger revenue, and overall earnings for the fiscal year 2025-26, as per the latest revised estimates (RE) and budget estimates (BE) released by the Ministry of Railways

Manoj Kumar Pathak

New Delhi: Union Minister for Railways, Communications, and Electronics & IT,  Ashwini Vaishnaw, has hailed the Union Budget 2025-26 as “amazing,” expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for continuing the trend of high allocations to the Indian Railways. The budget prioritizes railway safety, infrastructure expansion, and a transformative passenger experience.

A major highlight of this year’s railway budget is the introduction of 200 new Vande Bharat trains, 100 Amrit Bharat trains, and 50 Namo Bharat rapid rail services over the next two to three years. Additionally, 17,500 new non-AC general coaches will be added to enhance passenger convenience, particularly for the common man.

The government’s focus on bolstering rail safety remains paramount, with significant investments directed toward modernizing rail infrastructure, upgrading tracks, and deploying advanced safety mechanisms. This aligns with the larger vision of making Indian Railways a global leader in efficiency and passenger service.

Apart from passenger services, Indian Railways is poised to achieve a historic milestone in freight transportation. The national transporter is on track to becoming the world’s second-largest freight-carrying railway, with an ambitious target of handling 1.6 billion tonnes of cargo by the end of this fiscal year. The railway network is undergoing massive capacity expansion, including the addition of new freight corridors and enhanced multimodal logistics solutions to boost the economy.

Indian Railways Projects Growth in Freight and Passenger Revenue for 2025-26

Indian Railways has projected growth in freight loading, passenger revenue, and overall earnings for the fiscal year 2025-26, as per the latest revised estimates (RE) and budget estimates (BE) released by the Ministry of Railways.

Freight and Passenger Traffic Projections

For the year 2024-25, freight loading is projected to reach 1635 million tonnes (MT), compared to 1588.06 MT achieved in 2023-24. In the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26, the freight loading target is further increased to 1700 MT, indicating a 4% rise over RE 2024-25.

Freight Net Tonne Kilometres (NTKMs) have been revised to 938 billion for 2024-25 from the earlier 930 billion, while the projection for 2025-26 stands at 967 billion NTKMs.

The number of originating passengers is also expected to grow significantly. In 2023-24, Indian Railways carried 6805.45 million passengers, while the target for 2024-25 is set at 7269.78 million, marking a 6.8% increase. For 2025-26, the estimate is further raised to 7574 million passengers.

Passenger Kilometres (PKMs) are projected to reach 1204 billion in RE 2024-25, compared to 1065 billion in 2023-24. The growth trend continues into 2025-26, with PKMs expected to reach 1311 billion.

Revenue and Earnings

Passenger revenue for 2024-25 has been targeted at ₹80,000 crore, representing a 13.2% growth over the previous year. For 2025-26, the projection stands at ₹92,800 crore, an increase of ₹12,800 crore over RE 2024-25.

Goods revenue is expected to rise by 4.4% to ₹1,88,000 crore in 2025-26 from ₹1,80,000 crore in 2024-25. Additionally, revenue from Other Coaching services is projected at ₹8,500 crore, and Sundry revenue is estimated to grow to ₹12,000 crore.

Gross Traffic Receipts are forecasted to increase from ₹278,600 crore in 2024-25 to ₹301,400 crore in 2025-26. Total receipts of Indian Railways are estimated at ₹302,100 crore, reflecting an 8.3% growth over RE 2024-25.

Revenue Expenditure and Operating Ratio

The Ordinary Working Expenses (OWE) provision in RE 2024-25 is increased to ₹2,08,000 crore, primarily due to higher spending on safety-related maintenance. In BE 2025-26, OWE is further increased to ₹2,26,256 crore, including provisions for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

Appropriation to the Pension Fund is set at ₹66,358.69 crore for 2024-25 and ₹68,602.69 crore for 2025-26. The total revenue expenditure of Indian Railways is estimated at ₹2,99,059 crore in BE 2025-26.

The Operating Ratio for RE 2024-25 is projected at 98.90%, which would have been 98.41% excluding interest payments related to the COVID-19 loan. For 2025-26, the Operating Ratio is estimated at 98.43%, improving to 97.98% without the COVID-19 loan interest.

Capital Expenditure and Infrastructure Development

Indian Railways has maintained a capital expenditure (Capex) provision of ₹2,65,200 crore for both RE 2024-25 and BE 2025-26. The focus areas include safety, capacity augmentation, customer amenities, and rolling stock upgradation.

  • Network Expansion: Nearly 4,000 km of new tracks are being added annually, with 31,180 km laid over the past decade.
  • Electrification: Indian Railways aims to achieve 100% electrification by 2025, marking the centenary of railway electrification.
  • Station Redevelopment: Over 1300 stations will be redeveloped over the next four years, integrating city connectivity, multimodal transport, and improved passenger facilities.
  • Kavach Safety System: The indigenous Kavach ATP system is being installed on 10,000 locomotives. Track-side installations on 3,000 km of the New Delhi-Mumbai and New Delhi-Kolkata corridors are expected to be completed by December 2025.

To enhance passenger safety and comfort, Indian Railways has ambitious plans for rolling stock modernization:

  • Non-AC Coaches: 17,500 General and Sleeper coaches are planned for manufacturing.
  • LHB Coaches: Replacement of conventional ICF coaches with safer LHB coaches is targeted for completion within the next five years.
  • Vande Sleeper Trains: The first rake is under testing, with 50 sleeper rakes in a 24-car configuration planned for manufacturing in 2025-26 and 2026-27.
  • Namo Bharat Rapid Rail: Developed for suburban and inter-city travel, this system harnesses Vande Bharat train features for short-distance movement.
  • Improved Catering: The Railways is upgrading its base kitchens to enhance food quality and hygiene standards.

Indian Railways is on an ambitious growth trajectory, with robust plans for passenger and freight traffic expansion, revenue enhancement, and infrastructure modernization. With a strong emphasis on safety, electrification, and rolling stock upgradation, the national transporter aims to bolster efficiency and passenger convenience while maintaining financial sustainability in the years ahead.

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Budget 2024-2025: A Major Push for Women, Children, and Economic Growth

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Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, hailed the Union Budget 2024 as a transformative step towards development, emphasizing its role in fulfilling the vision of a “Viksit Bharat”

Sudesh Dogra

New Delhi: Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, hailed the Union Budget 2024 as a transformative step towards development, emphasizing its role in fulfilling the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She asserted that the budget would provide new momentum to the country’s growth trajectory and accelerate efforts to achieve economic self-reliance.

The Union Budget has introduced revised nutrition standards aimed at eradicating malnutrition among women and children. Smt. Annapurna Devi termed this a significant step in the direction of ensuring better health outcomes and reducing nutritional deficiencies across the country. The revised norms are expected to enhance the impact of government nutrition programs and contribute to a healthier future for the next generation.

Recognizing the need for financial inclusion and economic empowerment of women, the budget has allocated special provisions for first-time women entrepreneurs. The announcement of term loans up to Rs. 2 crore for five lakh women entrepreneurs, including those from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), is expected to provide a substantial boost to female-led businesses and startups. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of fostering self-reliance and economic participation among women.

The budget has been designed to cater to multiple sections of society, including children, youth, farmers, and particularly the middle class and salaried individuals. The minister highlighted that this budget is dedicated to uplifting these crucial segments of the population by providing necessary financial and policy support.

One of the most significant announcements in the budget is the complete exemption of income tax for individuals earning up to Rs. 12 lakh under the new tax regime. Smt. Annapurna Devi described this as a “historic and revolutionary step” that will provide much-needed relief to middle-class families and stimulate economic activity by increasing disposable income.

Ensuring food security remains a top priority for the government, with several ongoing initiatives aimed at making essential nutrition accessible to all citizens. The budget underscores key government schemes that provide subsidized food grains and nutritional support, particularly targeting newborns and mothers.

POSHAN Abhiyaan: A Mission for Better Nutrition

The government has reiterated its commitment to the POSHAN Abhiyaan, launched in 2018, to improve the nutritional status of children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. With a steadily increasing fund allocation and rising beneficiary numbers, the initiative continues to make a significant impact on national health indicators.

Public Distribution System (PDS):

  • 100% digitization of ration cards, covering over 80.5 crore beneficiaries.
  • 99.8% Aadhaar seeding of ration cards for better transparency.
  • Over 97% biometric authentication in foodgrain distribution.

PM POSHAN Scheme:

  • A five-year scheme with a financial outlay of Rs. 1,30,794.90 crore, aimed at providing nutritious meals to school children to improve enrollment and retention rates.

PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME):

  • Investment of Rs. 10,000 crore to upgrade food processing units and create employment opportunities.

Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI):

  • A Rs. 10,900 crore scheme to promote Indian food brands in global markets, creating jobs and boosting exports.

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY):

  • Continuation of free food grain distribution to 81.35 crore beneficiaries for the next five years, ensuring affordability and accessibility for the poor.

With substantial allocations for social welfare, economic growth, and food security, the Union Budget 2024 sets the stage for a more inclusive and progressive India. The initiatives announced will not only empower women and children but also strengthen the overall economic framework by fostering entrepreneurship, employment, and improved living standards across the nation.

Beyond the Viral Hype: The True Essence of Mahakumbh

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  • Beyond the staggering numbers and the awe-inspiring visuals, Mahakumbh is a reaffirmation of India’s deep-rooted spiritual ethos

Manoj Pathak

In an era where social media dictates the public discourse and fleeting trends dominate attention spans, the grandeur of Mahakumbh stands as a testament to timeless spirituality and devotion. While the digital world may focus on momentary spectacles, the true essence of Mahakumbh lies far beyond the viral clips and trending hashtags. It is a phenomenon that transcends generations, rooted in the unwavering faith of millions, the disciplined asceticism of sages, and the transformative power of spiritual wisdom.

The Soul of Mahakumbh

The heart of Mahakumbh beats not in the brief moments captured on camera but in the profound devotion of the Kalpavasis—pilgrims who dedicate their days to meditation, prayer, and self-discipline. It thrives in the sacred akhadas and spiritual camps where sages and ascetics impart knowledge on religion, yoga, and dharma. The air resonates with the enchanting sounds of Vedic chants and mantras, instilling a divine energy that envelops the entire gathering. In this sacred environment, countless community kitchens (langars) operate tirelessly, providing nourishment for both body and soul. These are the enduring elements of Mahakumbh that define its spiritual significance.

While social media virality is ephemeral—fading like a seasonal fever—the spiritual essence of Mahakumbh is eternal. This sacred gathering is not just a confluence of rivers but a confluence of traditions, wisdom, and self-discovery. Those who immerse themselves sincerely in its offerings drink from the true nectar of life—knowledge and devotion.

The Transformative Power of Satsang

For the millions who partake in the holy dip at the confluence of sacred rivers, the physical act of bathing is only the beginning. The real transformation happens in the company of saints and scholars, where satsang (spiritual congregations) instills wisdom and inner clarity. As Tulsidas eloquently wrote in the Ramcharitmanas,

“Binu satsang vivek na hoi, Ram kripa binu sulabh na soi.”
(Without satsang, one cannot attain wisdom, and without Lord Ram’s grace, it remains unattainable.)

Satsang dissolves illusions, awakens the intellect, and deepens one’s connection with the divine. Another verse from the Ramcharitmanas emphasizes this truth:

“Satsangat mud mangal moola, soi phal sidhi sab sadhan fula.”
(The root of happiness and auspiciousness lies in satsang, which leads to the fulfillment of all endeavors.)

Thus, Mahakumbh is more than a religious festival—it is a grand celebration of enlightenment, accessible to all who seek it with sincerity. The nectar of knowledge, like the sacred rivers, flows freely, and those who drink from it emerge transformed.

A Spectacle of Spirituality and Organization

Mahakumbh is not just a spiritual congregation; it is a visual and logistical marvel. The grand processions of Naga Sadhus, the intricate rituals performed at dawn, and the vibrant hymns that echo across the ghats create an immersive experience of devotion. The conch shells, the saffron-clad ascetics in deep meditation, and the rhythmic sounds of bhajans all contribute to the transcendental atmosphere.

Managing a congregation of millions is an administrative feat of immense proportions. From extensive tented accommodations to well-planned sanitation and security measures, the seamless organization of Mahakumbh ensures that devotees can focus on their spiritual pursuits without hindrance. This level of execution is a testament to the synergy between religious institutions and government bodies, working together to uphold the sanctity and success of this unparalleled gathering.

The Eternal Significance of Mahakumbh

Beyond the staggering numbers and the awe-inspiring visuals, Mahakumbh is a reaffirmation of India’s deep-rooted spiritual ethos. It is a powerful reminder that in an increasingly digital and materialistic world, the quest for self-realization remains as relevant as ever. The gathering exemplifies the essence of Sanatan Dharma—that truth, wisdom, and divine connection are eternal and transcend the barriers of time and technology.

Mahakumbh is not just a periodic event; it is a living tradition that binds the past, present, and future. It is a symbol of unity, continuity, and the enduring relationship between humankind and the divine. While social media trends fade into obscurity, the profound spiritual experience of Mahakumbh leaves an indelible mark on the souls of those who truly immerse themselves in its sacred offerings.

In a world driven by momentary distractions, Mahakumbh serves as an invitation—to step away from the superficial, to seek the eternal, and to embrace the infinite wisdom that it so generously bestows upon those who come with an open heart and a sincere spirit.

‘Mahakumbh on Kartavya Path’ Becomes People’s Choice

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New Delhi, EW correspondent: Uttar Pradesh’s tableau, titled “Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas”, has emerged as the crowd’s favorite in the People’s Choice Award category during the Republic Day Parade held at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. With an impressive 40% of the votes (25,007), Uttar Pradesh secured the top spot, followed by Gujarat with 35% votes (21,714).

The tableau portrayed the grandeur and cultural richness of Mahakumbh 2025, celebrating India’s intangible cultural heritage recognized globally. It depicted the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, showcasing the Mahakumbh as the largest gathering of humanity on Earth. The tableau seamlessly combined spirituality, heritage, development, and digital innovation. A majestic Amrit Kalash (nectar urn) at the front symbolized purity and prosperity, while accompanying scenes depicted saints performing rituals, devotees taking holy dips, and the vibrant spiritual essence of the Mahakumbh.

The tableau also highlighted the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) from Indian mythology, representing the origins of the Mahakumbh. The rear section featured the 14 divine gems (Ratnas) from the tale, underscoring the historical significance of the event. Advanced technology was prominently displayed through LED panels, showcasing visuals of ceremonial processions of Akharas and devotees heading for the holy bath. The depiction of the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) emphasized the role of digital advancements in ensuring seamless crowd management and safety during the grand event.

The People’s Choice Awards saw Uttar Pradesh leading the tally with 25,007 votes, followed by Gujarat with 21,714 votes, Haryana with 2,975 votes, Bihar with 1,969 votes, and Andhra Pradesh with 1,467 votes. Under the leadership of the Uttar Pradesh government, Mahakumbh 2025 is poised to be a monumental event that blends spiritual grandeur with modern advancements. The tableau stood as a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving heritage while embracing progress, resonating deeply with the public and making it their first choice. As the country prepares for Mahakumbh 2025, this tableau has set the stage for what promises to be a historic and spiritually uplifting event

Where Should Children with Autism Go? A Cry for Attention

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Sanjay Pandey

EW News Ranchi : The number of children with autism in Jharkhand is steadily increasing, yet the state government seems to be turning a blind eye to this growing issue. Despite the rise in cases, there is no active intervention or support from the government or social organizations. Health experts believe that while autism cannot be completely cured, early diagnosis and consistent support can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that impacts social interaction, communication, and behavior. Autism is not a disease, but a condition requiring understanding and support. Unfortunately, Jharkhand lacks a long-term strategy for addressing the needs of autistic children. Experts suggest that the government must prioritize identifying children with autism across all districts and empowering their parents, especially mothers, to become self-reliant.

Challenges Faced by Parents: Parents of children with autism face immense difficulties. A recent survey by The Emerging World revealed the plight of such families. Most schools deny admission to autistic children, citing the absence of guidelines or resources. The central government has not issued mandatory directives for employing special educators in schools, leaving autistic children without access to proper education or care. Similarly, the state government has failed to implement any policies addressing this issue. Need for Government Intervention The government must take urgent steps, including:
Identifying and Listing: Creating a comprehensive database of children with autism in the state. Training Specialists: Employing skilled professionals to provide regular monitoring and therapy.
Support for Mothers: Including mothers of autistic children in all welfare schemes without discrimination.

Specialized Education: Mandating schools to hire special educators and making education accessible to autistic children.
Awareness Programs: Educating the public about autism to eliminate stigma and create a supportive environment. A Question of Humanity The silence from both government and social organizations raises a critical question: where will these children go? Autism is not merely a medical condition, it is a challenge that requires collective efforts from society and authorities alike. The lack of action reflects a deeper apathy towards those who need our support the most. It is high time that the state health ministry takes responsibility and ensures that every child with autism receives the care and support they deserve. Without intervention, the question remains—will humanity rise to this challenge, or will these children continue to be ignored?

Now Land Receipts Can Be Generated Through QR Codes: Minister Deepak Birua

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Virtual Meeting Held on Revenue Collection, Key Directives Issued

Sanjay Pandey

EW Correspondent, Ranchi: Land Revenue Minister, Deepak Birua, announced that general citizens will now be able to generate land receipts through QR codes. This initiative is aimed at simplifying land-related services and boosting revenue collection. The Minister emphasized that processes such as land mutation and other related services should be brought under the ambit of the Right to Service Act to ensure timely completion and enhanced convenience for the public. Speaking at a virtual meeting with divisional commissioners and departmental secretaries from his office at Project Bhavan. Minister Birua said, “Currently, people face difficulties and need to visit government offices multiple times just to generate receipts for their own land. With the introduction of QR codes, citizens will be able to generate these receipts directly from their mobile devices. He instructed the department to take necessary steps to implement this initiative promptly, ensuring that people no longer need to visit offices for land-related receipts.
During the meeting, the Commissioner of Chaibasa raised a proposal for recovering ₹2,000 crore in outstanding dues from companies in Jamshedpur district. The Minister immediately took note and directed further action on the matter, highlighting the potential for significant revenue growth for the state through such recoveries. Additionally, Minister Birua expressed concern over the encroachment on government land and instructed officials to prepare a list of lands under illegal possession. Referring to the encroachments along the Harmu riverbanks, he emphasized the need for immediate departmental action to prevent further damage to the river. The meeting also focused on resolving issues related to pending land mutations, streamlining the renewal of khasmahal lands, facilitating easier collection of revenue from public resources (sairat), expediting auction-related cases, and ensuring regular reviews of pending court cases for swift resolutions. The Minister urged senior officials to inspect circle offices and take necessary steps to enhance revenue collection. The virtual meeting was attended by Ranchi Divisional Commissioner Anjani Mishra, Hazaribagh Divisional Commissioner Pawan Kumar, Palamu Divisional Commissioner Balkishun Munda, Dumka Divisional Commissioner Lalchand Dadhel, and Chaibasa Divisional Commissioner Hariprasad Kesari. Departmental Principal Secretary Chandrashekhar, Special Secretary Shashi Prakash Jha, and other officials were also present. This initiative is expected to modernize land revenue processes, increase transparency, and improve the overall efficiency of revenue collection in the state.

Pre-Budget Seminar Held Under the Chairmanship of Finance Minister

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Experts Provide Suggestions for Agriculture, Irrigation, Environment, Rural Development, Livelihood Mission, Urban Development, Tourism, Industry, Mining, Labor, and Skill Development

Sanjay Pandey

EW Correspondent, Ranchi: A pre-budget seminar for the financial year 2025-26 was organized at Project Bhavan under the leadership of Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore. The objective of the seminar was to gather suggestions aimed at bringing prosperity to the people of Jharkhand, particularly farmers, the rural poor, and communities living in remote forest areas. Experts from various fields, including agriculture, irrigation, forestry, rural development, urban development, and tourism, participated and shared their insights. Present at the event were Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh and Agriculture Minister Neha Shilpi Tirkey.
Addressing the gathering, Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore announced that the upcoming budget would be known as the “Abua Budget, reflecting Jharkhand’s unique identity. He stated, “This budget will prioritize the welfare of every section of society, including the forests, farmers, and underprivileged. Our goal is to prepare a budget that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, and therefore, we are seeking inputs from the public and experts alike. He emphasized the importance of including critical suggestions for rural development, agriculture, irrigation, and environmental conservation. The minister also highlighted the need for preserving rainwater and strengthening rural economies through agriculture and horticulture.Focus Areas for the Abua Budget 2025-26: Rural Development: Rural Development Minister . Deepika Pandey Singh stressed empowering women through financial assistance and training under the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS). She highlighted plans to connect rural women to urban markets and introduce small-scale rural drinking water and solar energy projects in the budget. Agriculture: Agriculture Minister Neha Shilpi Tirkey emphasized improving farmers’ economic conditions by promoting multi-cropping and providing better irrigation facilities. She mentioned plans to expand the “Birsa Pathshala” program for farmer training and strengthen livestock and dairy initiatives.


Water Resource Management: Principal Secretary of the Water Resources Department Prashant Kumar, suggested enhancing traditional irrigation systems and focusing on solar-based and minor irrigation solutions. He highlighted the success of the Birsa Irrigation Well Scheme and proposed including over 50 irrigation projects in the upcoming budget. Tourism and Industry: Experts recommended promoting eco-tourism, food processing, and industrial clusters. Proposals for branding local products and supporting mining activities were also discussed. Expert Suggestions for Inclusive Development. Experts shared valuable inputs such as natural farming, millet cultivation, strengthening forest rights, and creating a 2050 vision document for Jharkhand. They advocated for skill development programs for rural youth and initiatives to connect remote forest areas with better roads and facilities. The Finance Minister assured that these suggestions would be carefully evaluated and included in the 2025-26 budget to address the state’s socio-economic challenges and pave the way for inclusive growth. The seminar witnessed active participation from officials, experts, and representatives from various departments, reaffirming the government’s commitment to making Jharkhand’s 25th budget a progressive and people-centric one.