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Vancouver Island Rattled by Nearly 2,000 Earthquakes in Single Day, Suggesting New Ocean Crust Formation


1. Vancouver Island witnessed almost 2,000 tremors in a single day, prompting interest in regional geology.
2. Rather than a cause for alarm, these seismic activities hint at the formation of a new oceanic crust.
3. The tremors signify the ongoing process of seafloor spreading, shedding light on geological dynamics.


Canada, March 22: Vancouver Island experienced an unprecedented surge of nearly 2,000 tremors in a single day this month, sparking curiosity about the geological activity in the region.

Contrary to alarm, these seismic events are indicative of a profound process — the creation of a new oceanic crust beneath the ocean floor.

The Endeavour site, located approximately 240 kilometers offshore on the Juan de Fuca Ridge, witnessed an extraordinary earthquake swarm within a single day earlier this month. These tremors, though numerous, were relatively minor, with most registering below a magnitude of one.

According to Zoe Krauss, a doctoral candidate in marine geophysics at the University of Washington, such mid-ocean ridges typically do not generate large earthquakes.

However, these tremors shed light on the ongoing phenomenon of seafloor spreading. Positioned on a mid-ocean ridge, the Endeavour site sees the gradual divergence of the Pacific and Juan de Fuca plates.


Also Read: BJP Declares No Alliance with BJD in Odisha, Expresses Concern Over Modi’s Schemes’ Reach

As these plates move apart, they create tension in the Earth’s crust, leading to the formation of extensive fault lines. Molten rock, or magma, from the mantle, rises to the surface through these fissures, eventually cooling and solidifying into a new oceanic crust.

The recent earthquake swarm suggests that the seafloor at the Endeavour site may have reached its maximum extension, prompting these seismic activities. Krauss speculates that magma is now ascending to fill the voids, contributing to the formation of fresh oceanic crust.

This surge in seismic activity is not entirely unprecedented, as Krauss notes an uptick in activity since 2018, with March 6th marking the pinnacle of the recent swarm.

Despite the heightened activity, it has since subsided, though it remains slightly elevated compared to normal levels.

Continuous monitoring of the Endeavour site is facilitated by the North-East Pacific Time-series Undersea Networked Experiments (NEPTUNE), operated by Ocean Networks Canada.

This monitoring has provided scientists with invaluable real-time data, offering unprecedented insights into magma intrusion events and the process of ocean floor formation.

For Krauss and her colleagues, these seismic events raise intriguing questions. They seek to understand the implications for the unique ecosystem surrounding the hydrothermal vents at the Endeavour site and the origins of the magma fueling crustal formation.

Far from being alarming, these tremors offer scientists a glimpse into the dynamic forces shaping our planet.

BJP Declares No Alliance with BJD in Odisha, Expresses Concern Over Modi’s Schemes’ Reach


1. BJP in Odisha, led by President Manmohan Samal, opts to contest Lok Sabha and assembly elections independently.
2. The decision puts an end to speculations regarding a possible alliance with Naveen Patnaik’s BJD.
3. BJP aims to bolster its presence in Odisha through independent candidacy in upcoming elections.


Bhubaneswar, March 22: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha has declared its decision to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections independently, without allying with Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

BJP Odisha president Manmohan Samal announced the decision, ending speculations about a potential alliance as the BJP seeks to strengthen its presence in the state.

The announcement came after days of deliberation, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah stating on Thursday that the final decision was pending.

In a statement, the state BJP president expressed gratitude to Naveen Patnaik and the BJD for their support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government on national matters over the past decade.

However, he highlighted concerns regarding the effective implementation of the Modi government’s welfare schemes in Odisha, citing difficulties faced by the state’s residents in accessing benefits.


Also Read: Arvind Kejriwal’s first reaction after arrest: ‘Life dedicated to my country’

Samal emphasized the BJP’s commitment to addressing the aspirations of Odisha’s 4.5 crore citizens under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The party aims to secure victory in all 21 Lok Sabha seats and all 147 Legislative Assembly seats in the upcoming elections, with a vision to contribute to the development of both India and Odisha.

The BJD had expressed optimism about a potential alliance, with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s aide VK Pandian stating that discussions between BJP and BJD transcended politics, suggesting that neither Modi nor Patnaik required an alliance for re-election.

The BJP and the BJD had previously been allies from 1998 to 2009 but parted ways in 2009.

Arvind Kejriwal’s first reaction after arrest : ‘Life dedicated to my country’


1. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reaffirms dedication to the country amid ED arrest in liquor policy case.
2. Asserts unwavering commitment regardless of being behind bars or free.
3. Stated during escort to Rouse Avenue Court for a remand hearing.


New Delhi, March 22: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in his first response following his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the liquor policy case, asserted that his commitment to the country remains unwavering, whether he is behind bars or free.

“My life is dedicated to the country, whether he is inside jail or outside,” Kejriwal affirmed as he was escorted to the Rouse Avenue Court for his remand hearing.

The federal agency is seeking a 10-day remand for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, accusing him of being the central figure in the now-defunct Delhi liquor policy scandal.

Kejriwal’s arrest came shortly after the high court rejected his plea for interim protection from arrest.


Also Read: Congress Claims Meghalaya TMC Leader to Join BJP Post Lok Sabha Polls

According to the Enforcement Directorate, Kejriwal allegedly received substantial kickbacks from the ‘South group’ for his role in formulating and implementing the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22.

The ASG SV Raju, representing the agency, informed the Rouse Avenue Court that Kejriwal demanded Rs 100 crore from certain individuals within the ‘South group’ to fund the Punjab elections.

Amid tight security, Kejriwal was presented before the trial court around 2 pm after withdrawing his petition against the ED’s arrest from the Supreme Court.

Congress Claims Meghalaya TMC Leader to Join BJP Post Lok Sabha Polls


1. Meghalaya Congress avoided the TMC alliance over Mukul Sangma’s potential BJP shift post-polls.
2. Sangma’s defection with 11 Congress MLAs bolstered TMC as the state’s principal opposition.
3. Sangma’s allegiance shift raises concerns about TMC’s ties with BJP, alleges Vincent Pala.


Shillong, March 22: Meghalaya Congress president Vincent H Pala asserted that his party refrained from forming an alliance with the TMC in the state due to the likelihood of TMC leader Mukul Sangma joining the BJP post-Lok Sabha polls.

In 2022, eleven Congress MLAs led by Sangma joined the TMC, making it the main opposition party overnight.

However, Pala revealed that efforts were made to persuade Sangma to return to the Congress fold, but Sangma seemed inclined towards persuading Congress workers to join the BJP instead.

Pala alleged that Sangma’s eventual shift to the BJP after the Lok Sabha elections was highly probable, which influenced the Congress’s decision not to ally with the TMC in Meghalaya.

Highlighting the apprehension of TMC leaders joining the BJP after the elections, Pala emphasized that the Congress leadership concurred with his assessment, prompting the party to avoid an alliance with the TMC.


Also Read: ED Traces Money Trail from Delhi Liquor Scam to Punjab, Goa Elections; Labels Kejriwal as Kingpin

Pala accused the TMC in Meghalaya of functioning as the “B-team” of the BJP and expressed concerns about the potential consequences if the TMC’s political allegiance shifted to the BJP after the polls.

Acknowledging the differences between the TMC units in West Bengal and Meghalaya, Pala remained optimistic about the Congress’s performance in the Garo Hills region during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

He confidently stated that the Congress would outperform the TMC in the Garo Hills and reiterated his belief in the party’s resurgence in Meghalaya.

Pala, who has been nominated by the Congress from Shillong, voiced his party’s determination to contest the elections vigorously. He predicted a diminished electoral performance for the TMC in Garo Hills, given the influx of TMC members joining the Congress.

Attempts to reach out to Mukul Sangma and other state TMC leaders for comment on Pala’s assertions were unsuccessful.

ED Traces Money Trail from Delhi Liquor Scam to Punjab, Goa Elections; Labels Kejriwal as Kingpin


1. Enforcement Directorate (ED) brought Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal before the Rouse Avenue court, labeling him as the mastermind behind the Delhi liquor policy scam.
2. Kejriwal’s alleged involvement includes significant contributions to the formulation of the policy, enabling the acceptance of bribes, as per ED claims.
3. The ED’s assertions point towards Kejriwal’s central role in the scandal, emphasizing his direct involvement in the policy’s creation.


New Delhi, March 22: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) presented Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal before the Rouse Avenue court on Friday, asserting that he was the mastermind behind the Delhi liquor policy scam.

According to the ED, Kejriwal played a pivotal role in formulating the policy, which facilitated the acceptance of bribes. Vijay Nair, a middleman, allegedly acted as a link between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the south cartel, with prominent figure K Kavitha already under arrest.

Key Allegations Against Kejriwal

  1. Demand for Funds for Punjab Elections: The ED claimed that Kejriwal demanded ₹100 crore from individuals associated with the South group for the Punjab elections.
  2. Direct Involvement in Policy Formulation: It was alleged that Kejriwal personally met with Kavitha and collaborated on the liquor policy, which benefited certain groups financially.
  3. Utilization of Illicit Funds: Funds amounting to approximately ₹45 crores, acquired from the South group as proceeds of crime, were allegedly utilized by the AAP during the Goa campaign in 2021-22.

Also Read: BJD Bolsters Election Readiness in Odisha Amid Alliance Discussions

ED’s Assertions in Court

  1. Corroboration of Claims: The ED asserted that they had corroborative evidence supporting their allegations against Kejriwal.
  2. Cash Transactions: It was claimed that significant amounts of cash changed hands, implicating Kejriwal and his associates.
  3. Testimony from Goa MLAs: MLAs from Goa allegedly testified that they received cash, further implicating Kejriwal in illicit activities.

Kejriwal’s Response

After spending the night in ED custody, Kejriwal withdrew his petition challenging his arrest from the Supreme Court. He approached the lower court instead, where he was brought amidst a crowd eagerly awaiting the proceedings.

In his initial reaction following the arrest, Kejriwal reaffirmed his dedication to serving the nation, regardless of his circumstances.

BJD Bolsters Election Readiness in Odisha Amid Alliance Discussions


1. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) gears up for Odisha elections with discussions on potential candidates.
2. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik engages with leaders from eight Lok Sabha seats.
3. Preparations continue despite ongoing talks about possible alliances.


Bhubaneswar, March 22: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is ramping up its preparations for the upcoming elections in Odisha, with discussions underway for potential candidates in various Lok Sabha constituencies.

Leaders from eight Lok Sabha seats have already held consultations with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, accompanied by party observers. These efforts continue despite speculation about possible alliances, with Home Minister Amit Shah and Patnaik’s aide, V. K. Pandian, not ruling out the possibility.

The BJP’s state unit has taken a more aggressive stance, demanding the removal of hoardings featuring the Odisha CM’s photographs, marking a shift in their approach.


Also Read: Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest, BJP Calls for Resignation

The BJD has completed discussions for constituencies like Puri, Kendrapara, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Berhampur, Aska, Bhubaneswar, and Kandhamal.

Party leaders have been directed to mobilize support for both assembly and Lok Sabha elections, focusing on local factors, candidates, and potential adversaries in each constituency.

Former Mumbai Police Commissioner Arup Patnaik is being considered for the Puri Lok Sabha seat, while discussions on other candidates are ongoing.

Meanwhile, a BJP delegation has raised concerns with the State’s Chief Electoral Officer regarding the continued display of hoardings featuring the BJD’s symbol and the CM’s photograph in public places, citing violations of the model code of conduct.

While BJP leaders have hinted at the possibility of reviving alliances, decisions are yet to be finalized by the party’s national leadership.

Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest, BJP Calls for Resignation


1. Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, condemned Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
2. She labeled the ED’s action as “a blatant assault on democracy” and offered unwavering support to Kejriwal’s family.
3. Banerjee objected to targeting opposition leaders during the MCC period and aimed to raise the issue with the Election Commission.


New Delhi, March 22: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the liquor policy case.

She denounced the ED’s action as “a blatant assault on democracy” and extended her support to Kejriwal’s family.

BJP’s Demand for Resignation

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal as the Chief Minister of Delhi following his arrest.

BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi remarked that Kejriwal has become the first CM in India’s history to remain in office despite being arrested. He sarcastically referred to Kejriwal as a symbol of honesty, criticizing his refusal to step down despite the allegations against him.


Also Read: Zoram People’s Movement MP Candidate Submits Lok Sabha Nomination in Mizoram

Delhi BJP’s Perspective

Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva emphasized that Kejriwal’s arrest indicates his involvement in corruption.

He asserted that previous arrests within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) hinted at Kejriwal’s complicity. Sachdeva highlighted the significance of accountability, suggesting that the AAP must face consequences for their actions.

JDU’s View on Kejriwal’s Actions

JDU leader and BJP ally KC Tyagi criticized Kejriwal for disregarding the summons issued by the ED. Tyagi suggested that Kejriwal’s behavior did not align with his responsibilities as the Chief Minister of Delhi and a former senior officer of the Income Tax department.

Congress’s Critique of BJP

Congress MP Digvijaya Singh condemned the BJP for the ED’s actions against Kejriwal. He accused the central government of setting a dangerous precedent by arresting an elected Chief Minister, insinuating that it could be repeated after future regime changes.

AAP’s Defiant Stance

Despite his arrest, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) affirmed that Arvind Kejriwal would continue serving as the Chief Minister of Delhi and manage the government from jail.

This declaration reflects the party’s determination to uphold its political position amidst the ongoing legal proceedings.

Zoram People’s Movement MP Candidate Submits Lok Sabha Nomination in Mizoram


1. Richie, of the Zoram People’s Movement, filed his Lok Sabha nomination in Mizoram for 2024.
2. His future alignment with NDA or INDIA, if elected, will be decided by his party.
3. Richard expressed his commitment to focus on Mizoram’s development if elected as MP.


Aizawl, March 22: Richard Vanlalhmangaiha (Richie), the Zoram People’s Movement party candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha election 2024, submitted his nomination at the District Election Officer’s office in Mizoram on Friday.

In a statement to the press following the nomination, Richard expressed that his alignment with either the NDA or INDIA, if elected, would be determined by his party’s high command.

He emphasized that his primary focus, if elected as an MP, would be the development of Mizoram. Despite facing competition from MNF’s MP candidate and sitting Rajya Sabha MP K. Vanlalvena, Richard believes that being the ruling party’s candidate provides him with a strong chance of victory.

Born on August 3rd, 1978, in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Richie boasts extensive experience and is fluent in Hindi, English, and Mizo. He obtained his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Hrangbana College, Aizawl.


Also Read: Tourism Stakeholders in Sikkim File Complaint Against Army’s Restriction on Tourist Vehicles

His father, Lalzawma, is a retired Wing Commander of the Indian Air Force, and his paternal grandparents were influential figures in Mizoram politics.

His grandmother, L. Thanmawii, was the first elected female MLA, and his grandfather, Dr. Rosiama, served as the Chairman during the formation of the Mizo District Council in 1952.

Before embarking on his business ventures, Richie served as the Assistant Manager of the Mizoram Agriculture Marketing Corporation (MAMCO) until his early retirement in 2015.

He also played a significant role in assisting the Hnahlan Grape Growers’ Society in securing funds through the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS).

Richard’s vision includes-

• To establish a Permanent Farming System

• To build a Rural Godown / Warehouse for the success of an Organised Marketing System

• To develop Entrepreneurship for Mizo youths

• To attain self-sufficiency in eggs and poultry

• As part of the central government’s policy, he plans to establish JNV School in the three new districts

• To establish a Rice Mill for the proper packaging of rice produced in the State

• To take steps in the processing of locally produced vegetables

Tourism Stakeholders in Sikkim File Complaint Against Army’s Restriction on Tourist Vehicles


1. Sikkim tourism stakeholders, mainly in Dzuluk and along JN Road, file a complaint against the Army.
2. Despite valid permits, the Army’s refusal to allow tourist vehicles frustrates stakeholders.
3. Peak tourist season in Sikkim was impacted as Army restrictions hindered tourist vehicle access.


Gangtok, March 22: Tourism stakeholders in Sikkim, particularly in the Dzuluk area and along the JN Road, have filed a written complaint against the Army’s refusal to allow tourist vehicles despite having proper permits from the relevant authority.

During the peak tourist season in Sikkim, the Army’s restriction on tourist vehicles has caused frustration among stakeholders.

Many tourists travel from afar to visit these areas, only to be disappointed when they are unable to explore due to vehicle restrictions.

This situation also affects tourism revenue, as payments have already been received from tourists expecting to visit these scenic spots.


Also Read: Supreme Court to Consider Arvind Kejriwal’s Petition Today; AAP Alleges Family Under ‘House Arrest’

In response to the complaints, IG Checkpost ST Bhutia stated that efforts are underway to understand the reasons behind the Army’s refusal to allow vehicles.

Authorities plan to communicate with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) to address the issue promptly.

To expedite action, tourism stakeholders have decided to file a written police complaint, given the urgency of the matter during the peak tourist season.

Destinations like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Indo-China border pass, and adjacent areas are popular tourist attractions in Sikkim.

These areas fall under Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) zones, requiring special permits from the state permit cell for tourist access.

Despite having the necessary permits, tourists are facing restrictions imposed by the Army, hindering their ability to explore these renowned destinations.

Supreme Court to Consider Arvind Kejriwal’s Petition Today; AAP Alleges Family Under ‘House Arrest’


1. Supreme Court to review Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his ED arrest today.
2. Kejriwal detained over alleged money laundering in Delhi liquor policy scam.
3. Hearing follows Kejriwal’s arrest on Thursday; legal battle intensifies.


New Delhi, March 22: The Supreme Court is set to hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s petition against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today. Kejriwal was arrested on Thursday night in connection with a money-laundering probe related to the Delhi liquor policy scam case.

AAP leader and Delhi’s minister Gopal Rai claimed on Friday morning that Arvind Kejriwal’s family had been put under “house arrest”. He alleged that authorities prevented him from visiting the family shortly after the chief minister’s arrest.

“I have come here to meet his family but they have been put under house arrest. Under which law am I being stopped from meeting his family?” Rai told reporters.

AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj echoed similar sentiments, accusing the central government of obstructing anyone from meeting Kejriwal’s family.


Also Read: Tripura BJP’s Key Meeting with IPFT, Tipra Motha Scheduled for March 25

“Arrests have been made in politics in the past. However, even the minimum human values, once considered by the British, are not being followed. The central government has not allowed anyone to meet Arvind Kejriwal’s family since yesterday,” he said.

AAP leader Atishi alleged that Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest was part of the BJP’s political conspiracy.

“It is the first time that a sitting CM has been arrested by the central government. Even the Jharkhand Chief Minister resigned before his arrest. In the country’s history, it is the first time that, after the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections, the national convenor of a national party has been arrested. Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest is the BJP’s political conspiracy,” Atishi said.

She also expressed concerns about Kejriwal’s security, considering he has Z-plus security cover.

BJP Criticizes Arvind Kejriwal, AAP

Meanwhile, the BJP criticized Kejriwal and AAP, accusing them of playing the victim card.

“AAP leaders are saying that Arvind Kejriwal is not a human, but an ideology… The ideology is that he will be corrupt and when the court takes action, he will call it an atrocity… And play the victim card… I want to ask them, is the court ending democracy?… The SC rejected Manish Sisodia’s bail. The SC said that there is a money trail of Rs. 338 crore. Sanjay Singh’s bail was rejected by the HC. If your teammates have been in jail for more than a year now, has the BJP done it or the Courts have done it?.. Your BFF Congress found you drowned in the Liquor scam,” said BJP leader Shehzad Poonwalla.

AAP Affirms Kejriwal Will Not Resign

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced that Kejriwal will not resign as the chief minister of Delhi and will continue to govern from jail. In response, union minister Anurag Thakur criticized the decision, labeling it an insult to the people of Delhi.

“They are saying that Arvind Kejriwal will run the government from jail. This is an insult to the people of Delhi, law and democracy… It is unfortunate that a political party that spoke about the corruption of the Congress, and demanded the arrest of Sonia Gandhi, has refused to appear before the ED even after 9 summons. Why did I have to remain away from the investigation… All of them are exposed in this liquor scam,” he said.

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