India
India / Main Slide / Top News

Meet Suman Kumari: BSF’s First Woman Sniper Among 56 Male Counterparts

- by Chirag Goyal

Meet Suman Kumari, the first woman sniper of the Border Security Force (BSF), who has made history by completing an eight-week sniper course at the Central School of Weapons and Tactics (CSWT) in Indore, achieving the prestigious ‘instructor grade’.

Suman’s journey to becoming a sniper began when she volunteered for the course after witnessing the looming threat of sniper attacks from across the border while commanding a platoon in Punjab. Encouraged by her determination, her superiors approved her participation in the course.

Despite being the only female among 56 male counterparts in the sniper course, Suman’s resilience and dedication shone through, earning her the distinction of being BSF’s first ‘Mahila Sniper’. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for gender inclusivity within the BSF and is expected to inspire other female recruits to pursue similar military roles.


In an interview with The Times of India, CSWT IG Bhaskar Singh Rawat emphasized the rigorous nature of the sniper course, ranking it among the toughest after commando training. Rawat praised Suman’s accomplishment and revealed that she is now eligible to serve as a sniper instructor.

Highlighting Suman’s exceptional performance during the course, one of her instructors emphasized the demanding physical and mental strength required for sniper training. Despite the challenges, Suman’s unwavering determination and eagerness to learn set her apart, leading her to excel in various activities throughout the course.

Hailing from Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, Suman hails from a modest background, with her father working as an electrician and her mother as a homemaker. Her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming BSF’s first woman sniper serves as a testament to her grit, perseverance, and dedication to serving her country.

Meet Suman Kumari: BSF’s First Woman Sniper Among 56 Male Counterparts Read More
Gurgaon / India / Main Slide / News

Five Hospitalized After Consuming Dry Ice Mistaken for Mouth Freshener at Gurgaon Restaurant

- by Chirag Goyal

Five patrons of a restaurant in Gurgaon endured mouth burns and vomiting, necessitating hospitalization, after inadvertently ingesting dry ice served as mouth freshener by mistake. The incident occurred at Laforestta Cafe in Sector 90, where a waitress erroneously presented translucent granules, thinking they were mouth fresheners, to commemorate a birthday celebration.

Dry ice, commonly employed for theatrical effects in dining establishments and bars, is solidified carbon dioxide that poses health hazards when consumed, as it transitions into a gaseous state.

Last Saturday, three couples, Ankit Kumar with his wife Neha, Manika Goenka with his wife Pritika Rastogi, and Deepak Arora with his wife Himani, gathered at the cafe to observe Manika’s birthday. Following their meal, the waitress provided the group with what they presumed to be mouth fresheners. However, upon ingestion, the granules caused severe tongue and palate burns, prompting three of the individuals to be admitted to Aarvy Hospital.

Ankit Kumar, the complainant, recounted the distressing experience, stating that as the group consumed the granules, they immediately experienced a burning sensation, leading to vomiting and bleeding. Despite seeking aid from the restaurant staff, assistance was not forthcoming until police intervention, approximately 40 minutes later.

A subsequent investigation revealed that the waitress had inadvertently confused the dry ice pouch for mouth fresheners. Inspector Manoj stated, “We have seized the samples of dry ice and sent them for forensic analysis to ascertain why the restaurant had dry ice and how the waitress mistook it for a mouth refreshment item.”

The incident resulted in the filing of an FIR against the waitress under IPC sections 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) and 120B (criminal conspiracy). Laforestta Café manager Gagan acknowledged the error, attributing it to a mistake by the waitress and emphasizing the restaurant’s cooperation with authorities.

Dry ice, while commonly utilized for visual appeal and food preservation, poses substantial risks if ingested, potentially causing burns to the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Restaurants and bars often use dry ice separately for specific dishes, primarily for dramatic effects and cooling purposes.

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India / Madhya Pradesh / Main Slide / Politics

Rahul Gandhi Claims India Faces Maximum Unemployment in 40 Years, Blames Modi for Small Business Demise

- by Chirag Goyal

During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior, former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi made striking claims regarding India’s unemployment crisis. Gandhi emphasized that India’s unemployment rate is twice that of Pakistan, standing at 23 percent compared to Pakistan’s 12 percent. He further underscored that the number of unemployed youth in India surpasses those in neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Gandhi attributed this alarming disparity to the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly the rollout of GST and demonetization, which he argued adversely impacted small businesses and consequently led to a surge in unemployment across the nation.

“The number of unemployed youth in our country exceeds those in Bangladesh and Bhutan,” Gandhi stated, expressing concern over India’s highest unemployment rate in the last four decades. He squarely placed the blame on PM Modi, accusing him of effectively “finishing” small businesses through demonetization and GST implementation, thereby exacerbating the unemployment crisis.

Gandhi’s remarks during the yatra highlighted the pressing economic challenges facing India, as well as the need for policy reforms to address unemployment and foster economic growth.

During his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Gwalior, Rahul Gandhi engaged with Agniveers and ex-servicemen, shedding light on economic disparity, social inequality, and the mistreatment of farmers and young people. Gandhi attributed the incorporation of ‘nyay’ into the yatra’s name to the pervasive injustice faced by these segments of society and the growing spread of “hatred” across the country.

Addressing a public gathering during the yatra, Gandhi reiterated his assertion regarding India’s alarming unemployment situation. He emphasized that India’s unemployment rate is double that of Pakistan, standing at 23 percent compared to Pakistan’s 12 percent. Gandhi further highlighted the concerning fact that the number of unemployed youth in India exceeds those in neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Pointing fingers at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi blamed him for the dire state of unemployment, citing policies like demonetization and GST implementation, which he claimed adversely affected small businesses and exacerbated the unemployment crisis.

Throughout his yatra, Gandhi’s interactions underscored the urgent need for addressing systemic injustices and fostering inclusive growth to tackle pressing socio-economic challenges facing the nation.

Rahul Gandhi Claims India Faces Maximum Unemployment in 40 Years, Blames Modi for Small Business Demise Read More
India / Main Slide / News

IBM Encourages Employees to ‘Raise Your Hand’ for Voluntary Layoffs

- by Chirag Goyal

In a move characterized as “transformative,” IBM is urging its employees to proactively volunteer for layoffs as the company embarks on another round of global job cuts.

During a recent Q4 earnings call, IBM introduced the term ‘resource action’ to signify its ongoing restructuring efforts. According to reports, the company aims to streamline its operations, particularly targeting positions in Europe.

IBM’s Chief Financial Officer, James Kavanaugh, revealed that the company is striving to achieve a savings goal of $3 billion annually by the end of 2024, representing a substantial increase from its original target.

Reports indicate that a significant portion of the reduction target is focused on Enterprise Operations & Support (EO&S), Q2C missions, and Finance & Operations.

While approximately 50% of the reduction goal will impact staffing levels across Europe, IBM is emphasizing voluntary redundancy over involuntary terminations for employees who wish to remain.

An IBM spokesperson clarified, “In 4Q earnings last month, IBM disclosed a workforce rebalancing charge that would represent a very low single-digit percentage of IBM’s global workforce, and we expect to exit 2024 at roughly the same level of employment as we entered with.”

The spokesperson further explained, “This rebalancing is driven by increases in productivity and our continued push to align our workforce with the skills most in demand among our clients, especially areas such as AI and hybrid cloud.”

The initiative underscores IBM’s commitment to optimizing its workforce while aligning with evolving market demands, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence (AI) and hybrid cloud technology.

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Entertainment / India / Main Slide

Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa11 Finale: Manisha Rani Clinches Victory with Trophy and ₹30 Lakh Prize -“Overflowing Gratitude”

- by Chirag Goyal

Former Bigg Boss contestant Manisha Rani clinched the coveted title of the dancing reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11 during the thrilling finale held on Saturday night. Alongside the trophy, Manisha also bagged a substantial prize of ₹30 Lakh and an exciting trip to Yas Islands, Abu Dhabi. Entering the competition as a wildcard contestant, Manisha teamed up with choreographer Ashutosh Pawar, showcasing stellar performances throughout the season.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Manisha expressed her gratitude towards her fans for their unwavering support. She wrote, “DREAMS DO COME TRUE. Today, words fall short to praise you all… A small-town girl from Bihar dared to dream big!! And to fulfill that dream, the entire nation came together… Thank you to everyone who showered me with love throughout my journey on Jhalak and ensured that the trophy finds its way into my hands. What can I say about your praises? You’ve become our life.”

 

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Competing against talented contenders such as Shoaib Ibrahim, Adrija Sinha, Sreerama Chandra, and Dhanashree Verma, Manisha’s victory was a testament to her dedication and skill. The judging panel, comprised of Malaika Arora, Farah Khan, and Arshad Warsi, praised her exceptional performances, ultimately leading to her triumph.

Hosted by the dynamic duo of Rithvik Dhanjani and Gauahar Khan, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11 captivated audiences with its electrifying dance routines and fierce competition, making it a memorable season for participants and viewers alike.

Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa11 Finale: Manisha Rani Clinches Victory with Trophy and ₹30 Lakh Prize -“Overflowing Gratitude” Read More
Crime / India / Main Slide / News / South Africa

Alleged Assassination of RSS Leader, Most Wanted Mohammad Gaus Apprehended in South Africa by NIA

- by Chirag Goyal

Mohammad Gaus Arrested: Mohammad Gaus, the alleged perpetrator of the assassination of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Rudresh in 2016, has been apprehended in South Africa and deported to India, where he is being brought to Mumbai.

Most Wanted Mohammad Gaus Niyazi:
Central investigative agencies have achieved a significant breakthrough on foreign soil. The suspect accused of the murder of RSS leader Rudresh and a terrorist associated with the Popular Front of India (PFI), Mohammad Gaus Niyazi, has been captured by the agencies. This terrorist was apprehended in South Africa.

NIA had announced a reward of 5 million rupees on Mohammad Gaus, who was a prominent face of the Popular Front of India in India. Additionally, he was also accused of the murder of RSS leader Rudresh in Bengaluru in 2016. After the assassination, he had gone into hiding and had been staying in different countries.

Gujarat ATS Tracked Location:
Initially, Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) tracked his location, and this information was passed on to the central agencies. Subsequently, he was captured in South Africa and deported to India. Currently, he is being taken to Mumbai.

NIA Investigating RSS Leader’s Assassination:
The investigation into the assassination of RSS leader Rudresh is being conducted by the NIA. Rudresh was brutally murdered during broad daylight. After participating in the organization’s program and returning home, he was attacked by assailants in Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru. He succumbed to his injuries during this attack.

In this case, the police had arrested four individuals within a few weeks, most of whom were around the age of thirty. The main suspect, 40-year-old Ajim Sharif, was apprehended by the police in November 2016.

What did the NIA say?
After investigating the case, the NIA stated, “The murder was perpetrated with the intention of instilling terror among certain groups of people, and it was clearly a terrorist act, carried out on October 16 by using a lethal weapon to brutally murder the uniformed RSS member in broad daylight.”

Alleged Assassination of RSS Leader, Most Wanted Mohammad Gaus Apprehended in South Africa by NIA Read More
India / Main Slide / Top News

Suspected Smuggler Killed in BSF Firing Near Indo-Bangla Border in Meghalaya

- by Chirag Goyal

A suspected sugar smuggler was shot dead by security forces in Meghalaya near the Indo-Bangladesh border, with his accomplice injured in the firing.

Security forces in Meghalaya allegedly shot dead a suspected sugar smuggler while his accomplice was injured in firing near the Indo-Bangladesh international border, officials reported on Saturday. The incident occurred on March 1 when Asen M Marak, in his mid-forties, was killed in firing from the BSF Meghalaya Frontier.

Authorities are currently determining the identity and whereabouts of the injured accomplice, believed to have been hit in the leg, according to officials.

Confirming the incident, Sohra sub-divisional officer (Civil) Salon Verma stated that the matter is under inquiry and all formalities are being followed. She mentioned, “I will personally conduct the inquest after the investigating team returns to the base with all relevant information gathered. The postmortem will be conducted here in Sohra, and thereafter, the law will take its course towards a logical conclusion.”

The incident took place at Dalia village near Shella in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district around 8 pm when a BSF posse on duty encountered a group of individuals allegedly attempting to smuggle sugar, onions, and other materials to Bangladesh.

Providing preliminary details, a senior BSF officer stated that while such incidents are frequent, this one differed as approximately 300 people from both sides of the international border gathered at the site and confronted the BSF team. After exhausting all legal measures to control the crowd, the BSF team resorted to two rounds of firing, resulting in Marak’s death.

“Almost 300 people from both sides of the border converged at the site to confront the BSF personnel. While a group engaged with the BSF personnel, another group quickly took the contraband to remove any evidence of smuggling along with the person who was alive then, to the village where he succumbed to his injuries,” explained the officer.

Despite initially using non-lethal measures such as chilli grenades, stun grenades, and a pump action gun to deter the aggressive crowd, the situation escalated as the crowd attacked the team with machetes, knives, and other weapons. The team fired once in the air and subsequently fired again, resulting in the injury of two persons. Marak was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

“As per convention, unlike the western border, there is a treaty wherein non-lethal measures will be first adopted in cases of border confrontation or skirmishes, and the team had to resort to the last resort to save themselves,” added the officer.

 

Suspected Smuggler Killed in BSF Firing Near Indo-Bangla Border in Meghalaya Read More
India / Main Slide / News / Politics / West Bengal

PM Modi Renews Attack on Mamata Government: TMC Now Stands for ‘Tu, Main aur Corruption’

- by Chirag Goyal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing them of creating an environment conducive to “crime and corruption” in West Bengal. Addressing a rally in Krishnagar on Saturday, PM Modi asserted that the TMC has now become synonymous with “atrocities” and “betrayal.” He alleged that the TMC’s primary focus lies not on the development of Bengal but on fostering corruption, nepotism, and betrayal. According to him, the TMC aims to perpetuate its political agenda and games by keeping the people of Bengal impoverished.

PM Modi’s address follows a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Friday, amid escalating tensions between the BJP and TMC, with Sandeshkhali emerging as a focal point of contention.

Sandeshkhali Incident and Political Strife;
The recent arrest of Shahjahan Sheikh, accused of “sexual assault and land grabbing” in Sandeshkhali, has exacerbated the ongoing political turmoil in the region.

PM Modi took a swipe at Mamata Banerjee over the Sandeshkhali incident, stating, “In Bengal, it’s the criminals who decide when they should be arrested, not the police.”

He commended the women of Sandeshkhali for their resilience in protesting against years of oppression and violence, which eventually compelled the ruling party to take notice. PM Modi also applauded the state leaders of his party in West Bengal for standing by these women in their protests.

Infrastructure Development Projects;
PM Modi unveiled a slew of development projects worth Rs 15,000 crore aimed at propelling West Bengal towards economic growth and job creation. These projects include the inauguration of the Farakka-Raiganj section of NH-12 and the Flue Gas Desulfurisation (FGD) system at Mejia Thermal Power Station. Additionally, the foundation stone for the Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station Phase II was laid during the ceremony.

Emphasizing West Bengal’s potential as the “eastern gate” of India, PM Modi pledged to initiate several projects to boost employment and economic growth in the state.

Rail Infrastructure Revitalization:
In a bid to enhance Bengal’s rail infrastructure, PM Modi inaugurated four rail projects worth over Rs 940 crore. He highlighted the government’s efforts to bridge the gap in railway infrastructure and expressed commitment to further investments in the sector.

Ambitious Goals for Lok Sabha Elections PM Modi set ambitious goals for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, urging the people to ensure a victory on all 42 seats. He expressed confidence in the party’s prospects and rallied the crowd with the slogan ‘NDA sarkar, 400 paar’.

PM Modi’s Meeting with Mamata Banerjee:
PM Modi’s meeting with West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee at Raj Bhavan in Kolkata focused on discussions related to governance and cooperation. Mamata raised concerns about the pending dues owed to the state by the Centre, emphasizing the need for resolution.

PM Modi Renews Attack on Mamata Government: TMC Now Stands for ‘Tu, Main aur Corruption’ Read More
India / Main Slide / News / Politics

Gautam Gambhir Requests BJP Chief JP Nadda to Relieve Him of Political Duties

- by Chirag Goyal

Former cricketer and Delhi MP Gautam Gambhir has made a formal request to BJP president JP Nadda to release him from his political responsibilities on Saturday. Gambhir’s decision stems from his desire to allocate more time to his forthcoming cricket commitments. Expressing gratitude, Gambhir conveyed sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the opportunity to serve the nation.

In a statement, Gambhir stated, ”I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!”

With this move, Gambhir aims to effectively manage his dual roles and responsibilities.

Having joined the BJP in March 2019, Gambhir swiftly emerged as a significant figure within the party in Delhi. He clinched victory in the East Delhi seat during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with a remarkable margin of 6,95,109 votes.

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India / Main Slide / Mumbai / Top News

Indian Security Agencies Intercept Pakistan-Bound Ship from China Carrying ‘Military-Grade Items’

- by Chirag Goyal

Indian security agencies have intercepted a Pakistan-bound ship from China at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port over suspicions of a ‘dual-use consignment’ intended for Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile program. Among the items seized was a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine manufactured by an Italian company. A team from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) also inspected the consignment.

The interception took place based on intelligence input, leading customs officials to halt the Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, en route to Karachi on January 23 at the port. The consignment, including the CNC machine, underwent scrutiny by DRDO, which certified its potential use in manufacturing critical parts for Pakistan’s missile development program.

There have been concerns regarding Pakistan’s potential exploitation of China as a conduit to acquire restricted items from Europe and the US while masking identities to evade detection.

Documents such as bills of loading indicated the consigner as “Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd” and the consignee as “Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd” of Sialkot. However, further investigation revealed that the 22,180-kilogram consignment was shipped by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd, intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan.

Port officials, acting on specific intelligence, alerted Indian defence authorities, leading to the inspection and subsequent seizure of the cargo. This seizure falls within the purview of preventing potential proliferation by Pakistan and China.

CNC machines, operated by computers, offer enhanced efficiency, consistency, and accuracy, making them valuable assets with applications in both civilian and military domains. Since 1996, CNC machines have been included in the Wassenaar Arrangement—an international arms control regime aimed at curbing the proliferation of equipment with dual civilian and military uses. India, among the 42 member countries, actively participates in exchanging information on transfers of conventional weapons and dual-use goods and technologies.

And therefore, Indian port officials have previously seized similar dual-use military-grade items being shipped from China to Pakistan. In February 2020, China attempted to supply an autoclave to Pakistan under the guise of an “industrial dryer.”

Moreover, Cosmos Engineering, a Pakistani defence supplier, has been under scrutiny since March 12, 2022, when Indian authorities intercepted a shipment of Italian-made thermoelectric instruments, once again at the Nhava Sheva port.

Furthermore, in June 2023, the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) imposed sanctions on three Chinese companies—General Technology Limited (autoclave supplier to Pakistan), Beijing Luo Luo Technology Development, and Changzhou Utek Composite Company—for their involvement in supplying missile-applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme.

 

Indian Security Agencies Intercept Pakistan-Bound Ship from China Carrying ‘Military-Grade Items’ Read More