THE HEADLINES:

 

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils projects worth 33 thousand 700 crore rupees in Chhattisgarh; Says, these initiatives will create thousands of jobs and accelerate the state’s economic development of the state.

 

• Centre extends Armed Forces Special Powers Act in parts of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland for six months.

 

• Portals of Gangotri and Yamnotri Dhams in Uttarakhand to open on 30th of April this year.

 

• Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks culmination of holy month of Ramzan, being celebrated in the country today.

 

• US President Donald Trump threatens Iran with bombings and secondary tariffs if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington over its nuclear programme.

 

• And, Deepak Punia and Udit settle for Silver medals at Asian Wrestling Championship in Amman; Dinesh bags Bronze medal.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched projects worth 33 thousand 700 crore rupees in Chhattisgarh. Addressing a public meeting in Bilaspur, Mr Modi said that these initiatives will create thousands of jobs and accelerate state’s economic development. The Prime Minister emphasized that the projects are aligned with his government’s broader agenda of infrastructure expansion, housing, education, and rural empowerment.

 

The projects unveiled by  the Prime Minister include three lakh new houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 130 PM-SHRI schools equipped with smart classrooms and modern laboratories, a 540-km petroleum pipeline to enhance regional energy security, and an extensive network of rural roads aimed at improving connectivity in the Maoist-affected areas. Mr Modi said, these projects are part of a larger effort to integrate Chhattisgarh into India’s economic mainstream, reducing its historical dependence on mining and agriculture by fostering industrial and educational hubs.

Taking aim at the Opposition, Mr Modi accused the Congress of failing Chhattisgarh’s youth through recruitment scams, misgovernance, and stalled development projects. He alleged under the Congress rule, corruption was rampant, recruitment exams were marred by paper leaks, and government funds meant for the poor were misused.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the first Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir from Katra on April 19, marking the completion of the of the 272-kilometre Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link. Speaking to reporters in Jammu yesterday, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, Prime Minister Modi will arrive in Udhampur on April 19. During his visit, he will inaugurate the world’s highest railway bridge before flagging off the Vande Bharat train from Katra.

The much-awaited rail project, which began in 1997, faced multiple delays due to tough terrain. It includes 38 tunnels, 927 bridges, and the 1,315-meter-long Chenab Bridge, which is taller than the Eiffel Tower.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

The Ministry of Home Affairs announced  the extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) for another six months in parts of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, starting tomorrow. In Manipur, AFSPA will continue in all districts except for those under the jurisdiction of 13 police stations in five districts – Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. The state has been grappling with violence since May 2023.

The law has also been extended in eight districts of Nagaland and parts of five others, while in Arunachal Pradesh, AFSPA applies to Tirap, Changlang, Longding districts, and certain areas in Namsai district.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a key accused in connection with the illegal trafficking of a victim to the United States, who was deported back to India earlier this month. The agency said, according to the victim’s complaint, he had paid approximately 45 Lakh rupees to the accused agent for the illegal immigration process.

NIA investigations revealed the accused, who lacked any license, legal permit, or registration to send individuals abroad, had trafficked the victim to the US via Spain, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico using the donkey route.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

President Droupadi Murmu will be on a two-day visit to Mumbai beginning today. The President will reach the city this evening. She will attend the closing ceremony of the Reserve Bank of India’s 90th anniversary celebrations in Mumbai tomorrow.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Portals of Gangotri Dham in Uttarakhand will open on 30th of April this year. A decision to this effect was taken by Shri Gangotri Temple Committee at a meeting at Mukhwa, the winter residence of Maa Ganga, yesterday. The doors of Yamnotri Dham will also open on the same day.

 

The portals of Gangotri Dham located in Uttarkashi will be opened for devotees on 30th April on the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya in Rohini Nakshatra at 10:30 am. With this, the Char Dham Yatra will begin in the state. Gangotri Temple Committee Secretary Suresh Semwal told that the auspicious time for opening the doors of Gangotri Dham was decided on Sunday, the first day of Navratri of Hindu New Year and Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. He said that the festive palanquin of Goddess Ganga will depart for Gangotri Dham from its winter residence Mukhaba village on 29th April at around 12 noon and will rest for the night at Bhairav temple located in Bhairo Valley. The palanquin of Goddess Ganga will reach Gangotri Dham at 9 am the next day on 30th April. The doors of Yamunotri Dham will also be opened for devotees on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. Sakshi Singh, Akashvani News Dehradun.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

The Ministry of External Affairs has informed that NDRF team has begun rescue operations at the ‘U hla thein’ monastery in Myanmar, where around 170 monks are still stuck. The Ministry said, the army team will visit the hospital site today and will set up their Medical Services tomorrow. As part of Operation Brahma in quake hit Myanmar, External Affairs Ministry is also trying to get the NDRF team deployed at the Sky Villa where 4 towers of 11 storey each have collapsed. The Ministry added that the relief material will also be given to the SG of state Mahanayak Committee where around 2000 monks are sitting outside the monastery. The ministry also informed that India is providing assistance to members of the Indian community for their stay and food.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Eid-ul-Fitr is being celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety in various parts of the country today. The festival marks the culmination of the fasting month of Ramzan. The faithfuls are offering Eid prayers in Eidgahs and grand mosques.

 In Jammu & Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam confirmed the sighting of Shawwal moon, marking the end of holy month of Ramadhan.

 

Eid ul-Fitr is one of the most significant festivals in Islam that is celebrated with special prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Markets in Srinagar and elsewhere in Jammu & Kashmir saw a surge in shopping as general people were seen purchasing sweets, clothing, and gifts. On this occasion, people visit friends and relatives. Children receive cash gifts called “Eidee” from their parents and elders that make them happy. J&K Waqf Board confirmed that the largest gathering of Eid prayers will be held at Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar outskirts. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Cabinet Ministers and other prominent personalities have extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Eid Ul Fitr.TARIQ RATHER, Akashvani News Srinagar

 

In Delhi, main Eid congregations are being held at Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid and Shahi  Eidgah. Elaborate security arrangements have been made on the occasion.

 

The festival marks the culmination of the fasting holy month of Ramzan. The faithfuls offer Eid prayers in Eidgah and mosques. In Delhi, people have gathered at Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid and Shahi Eidgah for the special Eid prayers, followed by warm exchanges of greetings. The markets near Delhi’s Jama Masjid have been decorated for the festival. Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the occasion. Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed as a fasting period by Muslims over the world who abstain from food and water during the period between sunrise to sunset. On this day, Relatives, friends, and families are welcomed and offered meethi sevai and delicious food. AKSHIT VIDYAN Akashvani News DELHI.

 

President and Vice President have greeted the people on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. In her message, the President emphasized  this festival reinforces the spirit of brotherhood, cooperation, and compassion.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Muslims across Sri Lanka are also celebrating Eid ul-Fitr  marking the end of a month-long fast during Ramadan. The community, which constitutes about 10 percent of the island’s population, gathered at mosques for special Eid prayers, followed by warm exchanges of greetings.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

US President Donald Trump has threatened Iran with bombings and secondary tariffs if Tehran does not come to an agreement with Washington over its nuclear program. In an interview with a news channel, Trump said US and Iranian officials are talking but did not elaborate.

 

Tehran, however, has rebuffed Trump’s warning to make a deal or face military consequences.

In the same interview, President Trump has expressed strong anger toward Russian President Vladimir Putin over the ongoing war in Ukraine. He warned that if Russia fails to agree to a ceasefire, he will impose tariffs of up to 50 percent on countries purchasing Russian oil.

This marks a shift in Trump’s approach, as he had previously been seen as favoring Putin during negotiations. European leaders were concerned about his stance, but his recent comments signal a tougher position.

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

Moving on to the world of sports, Olympian Deepak Punia and Udit settle for Silver medals at Asian Wrestling Championships at Amman in Jordan yesterday.

 

While Deepak Punia won Silver in the Men’s freestyle 92kg weight category, Udit bagged Silver in 61kg weight division. Dinesh defeated Turkmenistan’s Zyyamuhammet Saparov in 125 kg category to win a bronze medal. With this, India secured a total of 10 medals including one gold, three silver and six bronze at the event.

 

Next we have from IPL Cricket, where Rajasthan Royals defeated Chennai Super Kings by 6 runs at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati last night. Nitish Rana who played a sensational knock of 81 off 36 balls for Rajasthan was declared Player of the Match. In today’s fixture, Mumbai Indians will host Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium. The match will start at 7:30 PM.

 

And in Indian Super League (ISL) Football, Jamshedpur Football Club defeated NorthEast United Football Club by 2-0 in Shillong to enter the semi-finals. With this, Jamshedpur FC will now play Mohun Bagan Super Giant across two legs of the semi-final on 3rd and 7th of April respectively, whereas NorthEast United FC have been eliminated from the competition. CHIRAG JHA, AKASHVANI NEWS, DELHI.”

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

TODAY’S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE,

 

• Myanmar trying to inch back to normalcy after the devastating earthquake has been covered by all the dailies. Hindustan Times writes “Mayanmar scrables for aid, toll nears 1.7 thousand.” The Asian Age reports the increased humanitarian assistance by India for the country “Indian ships, aircraft rush aid to Myanmar under Operation Brahma.’
• “India now second largest host of International schools as parents seek to future-proof kids’ future” reports The Times of India.
• “Piazza and park to shopping centre: Delhi to soon get its riverfront near Sarai Kale Khan” notes The Indian Express.
• And Finally, The Economic Times writes about Holiday itineraries for Indians now include broadway-style musicals, operas, literature festivals, for unique experiences, under the headline “On a cultural high, Indian travellers go beyond sight seeing.”

 

 

<><><> 

 

 

THE HEADLINES ONCE AGAIN:

 

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils projects worth 33 thousand 700 crore rupees in Chhattisgarh; Says, these initiatives will create thousands of jobs and accelerate state’s economic development.

 

• Centre extends Armed Forces Special Powers Act in parts of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland for six months.

 

• Portals of Gangotri and Yamnotri Dhams in Uttarakhand to open on 30th of April this year.

 

• Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks culmination of holy month of Ramzan, being celebrated in the country today.

 

• US President Donald Trump threatens Iran with bombings and secondary tariffs if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington over its nuclear programme.

 

• And, Deepak Punia and Udit settle for Silver medals at Asian Wrestling Championship in Amman; Dinesh bags Bronze medal.

 

 

<><><>