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Government Directs E-Commerce Platforms to Remove Bournvita from ‘Health Drink’ Category: Report

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Government Directs E-Commerce Platforms to Remove Bournvita from ‘Health Drink’ Category: Report

1. The Modi government’s directive to e-commerce platforms prompts the reclassification of beverages like Bournvita.
2. NCPCR inquiry reveals the absence of a defined “Health Drink” category under the FSS Act 2006 and regulations.
3. FSSAI and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd’s submissions led to the scrutiny of the ‘healthy drinks’ classification.

New Delhi, April 13: The recent directive from the Narendra Modi government has stirred the e-commerce landscape, particularly impacting leading brands like Bournvita, as they are asked to reclassify their beverages from the ‘healthy drinks’ category.

This move follows an inquiry by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) under Section 14 of the CPCR Act, 2005, which found that the FSS Act 2006 and related regulations do not define a category for “Health Drink” as submitted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd.

In response to this finding, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a notification advising all e-commerce platforms to remove drinks, including Bournvita, from the ‘health drinks’ category.

This development aligns with recent guidance from the FSSAI, which urged e-commerce platforms to refrain from categorizing dairy, cereal, or malt-based beverages as ‘health drinks’ or ‘energy drinks.’

The FSSAI emphasized that such terms lack legal definition, clarifying that ‘energy drinks’ are essentially flavored water-based beverages under existing regulations.

Also Read: Jairam Ramesh Criticizes Modi Govt Over Northeast Funding Discrepancy

The rationale behind these directives is to prevent consumer misinformation and confusion. The mislabeling of products could lead consumers to make incorrect assumptions about their nutritional value or health benefits.

Therefore, e-commerce platforms are urged to either remove or rectify these misleading advertisements.

NCPCR chief Priyank Kanoongo emphasized the importance of this reclassification in a letter addressed to the Ministry, FSSAI, and the departments of consumer affairs in states and UTs.

Kanoongo highlighted the need to ensure that beverages like Bournvita are not marketed or sold under the ‘health drink’ category, aligning with regulatory clarity and consumer protection measures.

Jairam Ramesh Criticizes Modi Govt Over Northeast Funding Discrepancy

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Jairam Ramesh Criticizes Modi Govt Over Northeast Funding Discrepancy

1. Jairam Ramesh criticizes Modi’s approach to North East, citing the underutilization of funds.
2. Budget announcements don’t align with actual fund utilization, according to Ramesh.
3. Ramesh highlights consistent discrepancy in allocated budgets and their utilization in the region.

New Delhi, April 13: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Modi Government’s approach to the North East, alleging a consistent pattern of underutilization of allocated funds.

Despite substantial budget announcements for the region, Ramesh highlighted the discrepancy between the allocated budgets and their actual utilization.

Since 2014, Ramesh claimed that the full budget for the North East has been utilized only twice, contrasting with the UPA government’s reported consistent utilization of around 90% of the budget.

For the fiscal year 2023, although a budget of Rs. 2755 crores was allocated, a CGA report in June 2023 revealed that only Rs 989 crore (35.9%) was utilized, according to Jairam Ramesh.

Also Read: Sikkim CM Criticizes SDF, Likens Pawan Chamling to Unfruitful Maize Roots

Moreover, in 2020-21, fund utilization was reported to be only 52% for the North East Road Sector Development Scheme and 34% for the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme.

Ramesh raised concerns about the PM-DevINE scheme, which has a substantial outlay of Rs. 6,600 crores from 2022-23 to 2025-26, stating that only over 10% of the funds (Rs. 855.85 crores) have been sanctioned thus far.

Additionally, despite doubling the budget for the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region before the elections in Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura in January 2023, Ramesh pointed out a potential discrepancy between announced allocations and actual fund disbursement.

Sikkim CM Criticizes SDF, Likens Pawan Chamling to Unfruitful Maize Roots

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Sikkim CM Criticizes SDF, Likens Pawan Chamling to Unfruitful Maize Roots

1. Tamang criticized the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) during a rally in Shyari.
2. He likened the party to “old maize,” implying ineffective results.
3. Tamang cautioned against regressive political tactics without naming SDF President Pawan Chamling explicitly.

Gangtok, April 13: During an election rally in Shyari, Sikkim Chief Minister and Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) President, Prem Singh Tamang, took a sharp dig at the opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), warning against what he termed as backward political tactics.

While not explicitly naming SDF President Pawan Chamling, Tamang compared the party to “old maize” roots, suggesting they would fail to yield positive outcomes. He urged voters not to support such entrenched entities, emphasizing the importance of progress over stagnation in Sikkim’s political sphere.

Drawing from personal experiences, including a period of imprisonment, Tamang underscored the significance of the Shyari constituency in his political journey.

He praised the dedication of SKM members, especially during his absence, and condemned SDF’s efforts to undermine the party’s integrity.

Tamang reiterated SKM’s dedication to inclusive development, urging party members to promote the vision and commitments outlined in the party’s agenda.

Also Read: Manipur Congress Calls for Central Armed Forces Deployment After Moirang Gunfire Incident

He reaffirmed SKM’s promise to fulfill nine guarantees within the next five years, underscoring the government’s commitment to Sikkim’s welfare and prosperity.

Additionally, Tamang highlighted the confidence expressed by former Sikkim minister OT Bhutia in SKM’s prospects across all six districts of the state in the upcoming elections.

Manipur Congress Calls for Central Armed Forces Deployment After Moirang Gunfire Incident

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Manipur Congress Calls for Central Armed Forces Deployment After Moirang Gunfire Incident

1. Manipur Congress urges central forces deployment post-Moirang gunfire at public gatherings.
2. Gunfire erupted during an election-related meeting at Phairenbam Mandop in Moirang.
3. Incident prompts heightened security concerns in Manipur’s valley areas.

Imphal, April 13: The Manipur Congress Party has demanded the deployment of central armed forces in valley regions following a gunfire incident during a public meeting in Moirang.

The incident occurred during an election-related public interaction program at Phairenbam Mandop in Phairenbam Leikai, P.S. Moirang, under Moirang A/C.

The gathering, organized for the visit of the Congress Party Candidate for the 1-Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, was disrupted by unknown assailants firing gunshots, causing panic among the attendees.

The event, attended by approximately 400 to 500 people, was intended to be a peaceful interaction but turned chaotic due to the sudden attack.

Also Read: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam confirms Election Commission of India’s exit poll ban

Gunmen fired 5/6 shots at the crowd, prompting attendees to flee for safety. The assailants also issued threats, demanding an immediate dispersal of the gathering.

Key leaders en route to the Election Interaction Programme, including Girish Chodankar (AICC In-charge Manipur), K. Meghachandra (MLA and President, MPCC), O. Ibobi Singh (MLA & Ex-Chief Minister and CLP Leader, Manipur), and others, were present during the incident.

In response, the Manipur Congress Party has called for legal action against the perpetrators and immediate security measures in all valley areas.

They have urged the deployment of central armed police personnel to ensure the safety of voters and candidates in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for justice and security for all.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Plea Against Arrest to be Heard by Supreme Court on April 15

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Arvind Kejriwal’s Plea Against Arrest to be Heard by Supreme Court on April 15

1. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against arrest by the Enforcement Directorate is to be heard by the Supreme Court on April 15.
2. The Delhi High Court recently upheld his arrest by the central agency.
3. Kejriwal’s legal challenge stems from allegations related to a money laundering probe linked to the Delhi excise policy case.

New Delhi, April 13: The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on April 15. The Delhi High Court recently upheld his arrest by the central agency, leading to this legal challenge.

Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate last month in connection with a money laundering probe related to the Delhi excise policy case.

Last week, a Delhi court extended his judicial custody until April 15.

Kejriwal moved the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court dismissed his plea, stating that there was no violation of legal provisions.

The High Court concluded that the Enforcement Directorate had adequate evidence to justify Kejriwal’s arrest and that the timing of the arrest was a consequence of his actions.

The court’s 103-page judgment highlighted Kejriwal’s alleged involvement in money laundering both personally and as the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Also Read: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam confirms Election Commission of India’s exit poll ban

It claimed that Kejriwal, in his capacity as the Delhi Chief Minister, was involved in formulating the excise policy and demanding kickbacks.

Additionally, it alleged that he used proceeds of crime in AAP‘s election campaign during the 2022 Goa elections.

Kejriwal had approached the High Court on March 23, arguing that the ED’s actions violated his fundamental rights and were politically motivated.

Alongside Kejriwal, AAP leader Manish Sisodia has been in jail since February last year in the same case. However, Sanjay Singh, another AAP leader implicated in the case, was recently granted bail.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) have accused AAP leaders of accepting kickbacks totaling ₹100 crore from a group of politicians and liquor businessmen in exchange for granting licenses under the now-defunct Delhi excise policy.

They allege that this policy favored specific liquor traders at the expense of public funds.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam confirms Election Commission of India’s exit poll ban

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Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam confirms Election Commission of India’s exit poll ban

1. The CEO of Assam confirms the ECI ban on exit polls from April 19 to June 1, 2024.
2. Prohibition applies to all media platforms, including print and electronic.
3. Violators may face imprisonment and fines under Section 126(1)(B) of the People’s Representative Act, 1951.

Guwahati, April 13: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam announced that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has imposed a ban on exit polls from April 19 to June 1, 2024, to ensure fair elections across the country.

The ECI issued a notification prohibiting the circulation and telecast of exit polls by any media, including print, electronic, and others, from April 19, the first day of elections, until half an hour after the last polling day on June 1.

Also Read: Assam: Tinsukia District Sets Voter Pledge Record

As per Section 126(1)(B) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, no opinion polls or election analyses can be broadcast in any electronic media 48 hours before the end of voting.

This prohibition applies to all states where elections are scheduled to take place. Violators of this rule could face imprisonment for up to two years along with fines.

Assam: Tinsukia District Sets Voter Pledge Record

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Assam: Tinsukia District Sets Voter Pledge Record

1. Tinsukia district saw a historic gathering of 1,59,191 individuals pledging to vote in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
2. The event occurred across various locations within the district, underscoring widespread civic engagement.
3. The situation remains volatile as authorities work to address the escalating conflict.

Tinsukia, April 13: Tinsukia district witnessed a historic gathering of around 1,59,191 individuals who pledged to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The event, held recently across multiple locations in the district, marked a significant moment in Indian democracy.

The gathering in Tinsukia district surpassed previous records, with an astounding total of 1,59,191 pledges recorded in just one hour, between 11 am and 12 pm on April 10.

This achievement stands as a testament to the strong commitment of the district’s citizens towards ensuring ethical voting practices and upholding the principles of democracy.

Also Read: Six Candidates Vie for Inner Manipur Lok Sabha Seat

Nuzhat Nasreen, the Additional District Commissioner of Tinsukia and Nodal Officer for SVEEP, highlighted the significance of this feat.

She compared it to the voter pledge record set by the Chennai North Constituency, emphasizing that Tinsukia district attempted to break the record for pledges taken within a single hour.

The event, titled ‘Laakhon Ka Garv, Shapath Ka Parv- Ek Ghante Main Ek Laakh Ek Saath’ (Pride of Millions, Festival of Pledges – One Lakh Together in One Hour), aimed to promote universal and informed participation in the electoral process.

Nasreen emphasized that such events are crucial for ensuring free and fair elections, which form the cornerstone of democracy.

Various segments of society participated in the event, with significant contributions from Self Help Group members of ASRLM (Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission) and ASULM (Assam State Urban Livelihoods Mission).

Notably, tea garden workers, who are often less informed about the electoral process and SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) strategies, actively participated in large numbers.

This engagement helped raise awareness among these communities about their responsibility to vote and ensure that every eligible voter exercises their democratic right.

The success of the voter pledge drive in Tinsukia district reflects the collective determination of its citizens to uphold the democratic values of transparency, accountability, and participation.

As the Lok Sabha Elections approach, the district stands poised to make its mark as a beacon of civic responsibility and democratic fervor.

Six Candidates Vie for Inner Manipur Lok Sabha Seat

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Six Candidates Vie for Inner Manipur Lok Sabha Seat

1. Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat sees six candidates competing for 9,91,574 registered voters.
2. Constituency spans 32 assembly segments, housing 1319 polling stations.
3. Electoral landscape presents a diverse range of contenders vying for voter support.

Imphal, April 13: In the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency, six candidates are contending for the votes of 9,91,574 registered voters. This constituency encompasses 32 assembly constituencies, with a total of 1319 polling stations.

Additionally, there are 29 special polling stations designated for internally displaced people (IDPs).

Th Kirankumar, the election officer, disclosed these details in Imphal, also mentioning that 5021 absentee voters (AVES) would be facilitated with home visits for postal ballots starting on April 14.

To ensure smooth polling, various measures have been put in place, including the deployment of micro-observers, videography, CCTVs, and the second randomisation and commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines for the Inner Manipur seat.

The strong room is scheduled to open on April 18, with inspections of expenditure registers and traffic management arrangements being implemented.

Also Read: Inside Jorhat Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Gogois, Ahom Legacy, and More

Among the candidates, the main contenders hail from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress, and Republican Party of India – Athawale faction (RPI-A).

Three independent candidates are also in the fray, although they are considered non-entities in the race.

Inside Jorhat Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Gogois, Ahom Legacy, and More

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Inside Jorhat Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Gogois, Ahom Legacy, and More

1. Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency, a vital electoral battleground in Assam.
2. Comprehensive analysis covering historical significance, demographic composition, and key political issues.
3. Illuminating insights into ongoing electoral dynamics shaping the constituency’s future.

Jorhat, April 13: Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency, situated in Assam, stands as one of the pivotal electoral battlegrounds in the region.

This comprehensive analysis sheds light on various facets of the constituency, including its historical significance, demographic composition, key political issues, and ongoing electoral dynamics.

Historical Overview

Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency, comprising 12 assembly segments, holds a prominent place in Assam’s political landscape.

Traditionally, it has been a stronghold of the Congress party, witnessing consistent victories in past elections. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as a formidable challenger in recent years, heralding a shift in the political dynamics of the region.

The closely contested battle during the 2019 Lok Sabha election underscored the BJP’s growing influence, culminating in a significant electoral victory.

Educational and Cultural Hub

Renowned for its vibrant educational ecosystem, Jorhat boasts an array of prestigious institutions catering to diverse fields.

From the esteemed National Institute of Design to the North East Institute of Science and Technology, the constituency fosters intellectual growth and innovation.

Furthermore, Jorhat’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with its status as the “cultural capital,” adds another layer of significance to its electoral narrative.

Candidates and Current MP

The incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) from Jorhat is Topon Kumar Gogoi, representing the BJP.

In the upcoming elections, he faces a formidable opponent in Gaurav Gogoi of the Congress party.

This electoral showdown between the two prominent contenders sets the stage for a riveting political contest.

The Constituency and Its Key Issues

Ahom Legacy and Identity Politics

Jorhat, often hailed as the bastion of Assamese culture, prides itself on its rich Ahom legacy.

The preservation of Assamese identity and heritage emerges as a pivotal political issue, with parties leveraging initiatives such as the inauguration of the Bir Lachit Borphukan statue and UNESCO nomination for Charaideo Maidam to garner support.

Infrastructure Development

The completion of the four-lane National Highway 37 and proposed construction projects such as the Baruah Chariali flyover and bridge connecting Jorhat to Majuli Island remain focal points in the electoral discourse.

These infrastructural endeavors hold the potential to address long-standing concerns and enhance connectivity, especially in flood-prone areas like Majuli Island.

Floods, Erosion, and Environmental Challenges

The persistent threat of floods and erosion, particularly affecting Majuli Island, underscores the urgent need for effective mitigation measures.

The government’s response to these environmental challenges, along with issues related to water management, power supply, and sustainable development, shapes voter perceptions and electoral outcomes.

BJP’s Electoral Strategy and Development Agenda

Organisational Machinery

The BJP’s robust organisational machinery plays a pivotal role in mobilising voters and executing its electoral strategy. Through targeted outreach programs and grassroots mobilisation efforts, the party aims to consolidate its support base and secure electoral victories.

Development Agenda

Emphasising a pro-development agenda, the BJP resonates with Jorhat’s electorate, particularly in addressing infrastructure gaps and promoting economic growth. Initiatives aimed at fostering agricultural innovation, educational excellence, and industrial development garner support from diverse segments of the population.

Ahom Legacy Preservation

The BJP’s emphasis on preserving Jorhat’s Ahom legacy aligns with the electorate’s cultural sentiments and historical pride. By championing initiatives that celebrate Assamese heritage, the party seeks to strengthen its appeal among voters who identify with the region’s rich historical legacy.

Also Read: Meghalaya’s Strawberry Festival: A Celebration of Luscious Produce Begins

Voters and Demographics

Population Composition

With a total voter count of 1,347,881, the Jorhat constituency reflects a diverse demographic landscape. While rural voters constitute a significant majority, urban segments also wield considerable electoral influence. The constituency’s social composition, including Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) voters, underscores the need for nuanced electoral strategies.

Population and voters

Total voters: 1,347,881

Rural Voters: 1,124,133, which is around 83.4%

Urban Voters: 223,748, which is around 16.6%

Sex Ratio: 956 (2011)

Voter turnout: 77.2% (2019 Parliament election) – lower than the 2016 Assembly election’s 83.6% turnout.

Social Composition

4.7% Scheduled Caste (SC) voters

4.8% Scheduled Tribe (ST) voters

Religious composition

Hindu: 88.86

Muslim: 8.2%

Buddhist: 0.3%

Christian: 2.49%

Jain: 0.04%

Sikh: 0.11%

Religious and Ethnic Diversity

Jorhat’s religious composition, comprising Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and other communities, adds complexity to its electoral dynamics. Parties must navigate these diverse religious affiliations and ethnic identities while formulating their electoral campaigns and outreach initiatives.

Assam’s Socio-Political Landscape

Delimitation and Electoral Redistricting

The delimitation exercise, aimed at redrawing constituencies, has significant implications for Assam’s political landscape. By strategically reallocating seats and redefining electoral boundaries, parties seek to gain electoral advantages and consolidate their political foothold.

Identity Politics and Demographic Shifts

Identity politics, fueled by concerns over demographic changes and cultural preservation, shapes Assam’s electoral narrative. Parties leverage narratives of “jati mati bheti” (home, land, and hearth) to appeal to voters’ sentiments and consolidate their electoral support base.

Socio-Economic Challenges

Assam grapples with a myriad of socio-economic challenges, including rural poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and environmental vulnerabilities. Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts from political stakeholders to foster inclusive growth and development.

As the Jorhat Lok Sabha constituency braces itself for the 2024 elections, the convergence of historical legacies, contemporary challenges, and electoral strategies sets the stage for a compelling political spectacle.

The outcome of this electoral battle will not only shape the future trajectory of Jorhat but also influence the broader socio-political landscape of Assam.

With diverse issues at play and competing visions for the constituency’s development, voters must navigate a complex electoral terrain to make informed choices that reflect their aspirations and priorities for a better tomorrow.

Meghalaya’s Strawberry Festival: A Celebration of Luscious Produce Begins

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Meghalaya’s Strawberry Festival: A Celebration of Luscious Produce Begins

1. Meghalaya Strawberry Festival, showcasing the state’s strawberry fields and agro-tourism, began with enthusiasm on April 12th.
2. The inaugural ceremony aimed to highlight Meghalaya’s luscious strawberries, initiating two days of festivities.
3. Various activities like strawberry picking, cycling treks, live music, and cultural performances engaged participants.

Shillong, April 13: The highly anticipated Meghalaya Strawberry Festival, celebrating the state’s thriving strawberry fields and agro-tourism offerings, commenced with great fanfare on April 12th.

The inaugural ceremony of this vibrant celebration aimed to shine a spotlight on Meghalaya’s luscious strawberries, kicking off two days of festivities across various locations in the hill state.

The festival unfolded in different parts of Meghalaya, including Sohliya, Umsning, Ri Bhoi, Iawpynsing, Nohron, East Khasi Hills, Kynktieh, Syntung, Darechikgre, and West Garo Hills.

Each location offered a unique array of activities, inviting visitors to participate in strawberry picking, cycling treks, live music, cultural performances, and a special workshop on local beverages.

Vijay Kumar D, Meghalaya’s Tourism Commissioner and Secretary, expressed his support for the festival, highlighting the favorable conditions and hardworking farmers that contribute to the success of strawberry cultivation in the state.

Also Read: Rongali Bihu Festivities Begin in Assam with Traditional Goru Bihu Celebrations

He emphasized the festival’s role in integrating tourism with agriculture to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and local enterprises. Kumar outlined plans for expanding strawberry cultivation, which could potentially improve the lives of many in the state.

Ostander Lyngkhoi, the village headman of Sohliya and a pioneer in strawberry cultivation in Northeast India, extended his gratitude to the Meghalaya Tourism Department for their support in making the festival a success.

Isawanda Laloo, Secretary of the Meghalaya Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, acknowledged the hard work of farmers in Syntung, where strawberries have gained recognition.

Laloo highlighted the significant growth prospects for the village and the region as a whole, attributing it to the exponential increase in sales and farmers’ incomes.

Jagdish Chelani, Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, lauded the Strawberry Festival as a celebration of a product with great market potential in Meghalaya.

He suggested that processing strawberries could further enhance their value and marketability, potentially fetching higher prices.

Overall, the Meghalaya Strawberry Festival serves as a testament to the state’s agricultural richness and the dedication of its farmers.

Through showcasing the bountiful produce and creating opportunities for economic growth, the festival strengthens the bond between agriculture, tourism, and community development in Meghalaya.

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