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Assam Among Top 5 Fastest Growing States in India: Himanta Biswa Sarma

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Assam Among Top 5 Fastest Growing States in India: Himanta Biswa Sarma

1. Assam is now among India’s top five fastest-growing states, says CM Himanta Biswa Sarma.
2. CM Sarma credits the state’s progress to developmental initiatives.
3. Government policies have significantly contributed to this growth.

Guwahati, July 26: Assam has been ranked among the top five fastest-growing states in India, according to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

He attributed the state’s progress to various developmental initiatives and policies implemented by the government.

Speaking to the media, CM Sarma highlighted the state’s economic growth, citing the economic survey. “In 2021, the state bank deposits stood at ₹1.71 lakh crore, which surged to ₹2.24 lakh crore by 2023-24, marking a 30 percent increase, a significant economic indicator,” he said.

Regarding loans, CM Sarma noted, “In 2021, banks issued loans worth ₹80,871 crore, which increased to ₹1.27 lakh crore by 2024.” He added that Assam’s Credit/Deposit (C/D) ratio has improved from 32 percent to 58 percent.

Also Read: Mizoram: SJVN Wins 2,400 MW Storage Project Worth ₹13,947 Crore

On the unemployment front, Sarma mentioned that the unemployment rate dropped from 8 percent in 2022-23 to 6.1 percent.

Earlier, CM Sarma had a comprehensive discussion with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw about improving railway connectivity in Assam and the potential for establishing rail manufacturing entities in the state.

The Union Minister also considered starting direct train connectivity between Kamakhya and Ayodhya for devotees.

Additionally, the possibility of starting train services between Assam’s Barak Valley and West Bengal via Bangladesh was brought to the Railway Ministry’s attention, with assurances that it would be prioritized.

Sarma praised the Minister for his efforts to increase the allocation for rail connectivity in Assam in the Union Budget 2024.

Mizoram: SJVN Wins 2,400 MW Storage Project Worth ₹13,947 Crore

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Mizoram: SJVN Wins 2,400 MW Storage Project Worth ₹13,947 Crore

1. SJVN Ltd received a letter of intent from Mizoram for a 2,400 MW pumped storage project.
2. The project is valued at over ₹13,947 crore.
3. It will be allocated on a nomination basis.

Aizawl, July 26: State-owned SJVN Ltd has been awarded a letter of intent by the Mizoram government for the 2,400 MW pumped storage project, valued at over ₹13,947 crore. This project will be allotted on a nomination basis.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between SJVN and the Mizoram government is expected to be signed within three months, according to the letter of intent.

The Darzo Lui Pumped Storage Project, SJVN’s first venture in Mizoram, will be built across the Darzo Nallah, a tributary of the Tuipui River.

Also Read: Congress Demands Census Timeline, Raises China Border Issues in Lok Sabha

The project has an estimated completion cost of ₹13,947.50 crore, which includes interest during construction and financing costs at April 2023 price levels.

The project will utilize the 770-meter gross head difference between the upper and lower reservoirs.

The upper reservoir will be located on a minor stream of the Hnahchanglui Nallah near South Vanlaiphai village in the Hnahthial district, while the lower reservoir will be situated in the Darzo Nallah, approximately 5.5 km upstream from its confluence with the Tuipui River near Vertek village.

Congress Demands Census Timeline, Raises China Border Issues in Lok Sabha

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Congress Demands Census Timeline, Raises China Border Issues in Lok Sabha

1. Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi demanded a clear timeline for the delayed national census.
2. He submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha.
3. Gogoi emphasized the critical role of census data in policymaking and resource allocation.

New Delhi, July 26: Deputy Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, submitted an adjournment motion notice, demanding a clear timeline for the long-delayed national census.

Gogoi underscored the essential role of census data in policymaking and resource allocation. “The census is a fundamental exercise that provides crucial data for understanding the socio-economic fabric of our nation,” he stated.

The last census was conducted in 2011, and since then, there have been repeated delays. Gogoi highlighted that 94 countries, including China and Bangladesh, completed their censuses during the pandemic, whereas India remains one of three nations that postponed without setting a new date.

Also Read: Manipur CM: All Acts of Violence Must Be Condemned

“The government’s decision-making currently relies on 2011 data, which does not accurately represent the current needs of India’s population,” Gogoi said, citing instances of citizens being excluded from public distribution efforts due to outdated information.

He criticized the government’s priorities, stating, “This government has made no real efforts to kick-start the process because it is prioritizing political calculations over people.”

Gogoi called for immediate action, demanding “a comprehensive explanation for the delay and assurances that the government will take immediate steps to rectify the situation.”

In a separate motion, Congress MP Manish Tewari raised concerns about the China border situation and trade deficit. Tewari pointed to ongoing border clashes since 2019 and China’s recent territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh.

He also noted the significant trade imbalance, with India’s deficit with China exceeding $85 billion in 2023-24.

Manipur CM: All Acts of Violence Must Be Condemned

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Manipur CM: All Acts of Violence Must Be Condemned

1. Manipur CM N. Biren Singh called for universal condemnation and prevention of violence on July 25.
2. Singh defended the central government’s aid for Manipur amid Congress allegations of insufficient support.
3. He detailed financial aid for relief efforts, including Rs 145 crore for relief camps and additional funds for various needs.

Imphal, July 25: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, on July 25, called for universal condemnation of all acts of violence and emphasized the need to prevent them.

Speaking at the launch of a book program by the Department of Sericulture and the Manipur Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, Singh stated, “As peace gradually returns to the state, we must work together to maintain it. All demands, including identifying illegal immigrants and implementing the NRC, should comply with constitutional and legal frameworks. Violence must be denounced and actively prevented.”

Responding to Congress allegations regarding the lack of aid for Manipur in the Union Budget, Singh highlighted the central government’s consistent support.

Also Read: Kiren Rijiju Praises Union Budget, Criticizes Opposition for ‘Misleading’ the Nation

“The central government has been providing aid from the start, despite state mentions in Parliament. Let’s avoid petty politics. The Centre has funded prefabricated homes and daily provisions, allocating Rs 145 crore for relief camps.”

Singh detailed further aid, saying, “Rs 3 crore was used for distributing televisions in relief camps, Rs 23 crore was given in Rs 1,000 instalments to camp residents multiple times, Rs 44 crore went towards children’s nutrition and hygiene, and Rs 19 crore was for agricultural compensations.”

He added, “Rs 25,000 has been disbursed as the first instalment to 6,000 families under a special assistance package for those affected by violence, with each family to receive Rs 1 lakh.”

Singh addressed criticisms, asserting, “Critics have misrepresented the government’s relief efforts.” He also mentioned, “Despite recent hailstorms and floods, Rs 80 crore was allocated for flood relief, and Rs 45 crore was spent on GI sheets for 42,000 people whose homes were damaged by hailstorms.”

Kiren Rijiju Praises Union Budget, Criticizes Opposition for ‘Misleading’ the Nation

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Kiren Rijiju Praises Union Budget, Criticizes Opposition for ‘Misleading’ the Nation

1. Kiren Rijiju praised the Union Budget presented by Nirmala Sitharaman.
2. He accused the Opposition of politicizing the budget discussion.
3. Rijiju defended the budget against claims it benefits only Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

New Delhi, July 25: Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju lauded the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and criticized the Opposition for politicizing the budget discussion.

At a press conference, Rijiju accused the Opposition of disrespecting the public mandate and using derogatory language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “I urge the Opposition to engage in constructive dialogue about the Budget,” he said.

Rijiju rebutted claims from the Opposition that the budget benefits only Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, stating that it addresses national needs comprehensively.

Also Read: Army Impersonator Detained in Shillong on Suspected Espionage Charges

“The Opposition’s claims are misleading. The Budget includes provisions for infrastructure, healthcare, middle-class relief, farmers, and tribal communities,” he added.

Rijiju emphasized that while Bihar might see specific benefits, the budget serves the entire nation. “It’s a collective Budget for all states,” he noted.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget 2024-25 on July 23, highlighting significant investments in infrastructure and financial support for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

Army Impersonator Detained in Shillong on Suspected Espionage Charges

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Army Impersonator Detained in Shillong on Suspected Espionage Charges

1. Man impersonating an Indian Army captain detained in Shillong.
2. Suspect Sar Chehon Rongpi from Karbi Anglong, Assam, was caught in military installations.
3. Concerns raised about possible espionage activities.

Guwahati, July 25: A man posing as an Indian Army captain was detained in Shillong, raising concerns about possible espionage.

The suspect, Sar Chehon Rongpi from Karbi Anglong District in Assam, was apprehended while wearing an army uniform and roaming military installations.

Suspicion arose at a canteen in Headquarters 101 Area when Rongpi failed to present valid identification. His story quickly fell apart during questioning as he provided inconsistent information about his unit affiliation.

A search of Rongpi’s mobile phone revealed sensitive military data, including photos and videos of convoys, weapons, and restricted areas. This discovery raised concerns that he might have been involved in intelligence-gathering.

Also Read: CM Khandu Pledges Swift Action on Officer Shortage in Arunachal

The First Information Report (FIR) indicates that Rongpi had been infiltrating HQ 101 Area multiple times, each time posing as a captain from the Assam Regimental Centre.

East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtnger confirmed that Rongpi was transferred to the Jhalupara police outpost on the night of July 23 for further investigation.

Authorities are now working to determine how he accessed secure locations and assess the potential impact on national security.

CM Khandu Pledges Swift Action on Officer Shortage in Arunachal

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CM Khandu Pledges Swift Action on Officer Shortage in Arunachal

1. CM Pema Khandu acknowledged the shortage of administrative officers due to stalled recruitments since 2022.
2. Recruitments were halted following the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) paper leak case.
3. During Question Hour, Khandu assured senior BJP MLA Wanglin Lowangdong that APCS entry-grade officer recruitment will resume soon after the commission’s reconstitution.

Itanagar, July 25: Acknowledging the shortage of administrative officers in various districts, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced that recruitments have been stalled since 2022 due to the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) paper leak case.

During the Question Hour in the assembly, Khandu responded to senior BJP MLA Wanglin Lowangdong’s query, stating that the recruitment for Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services (APCS) entry-grade officers would resume soon, following the reconstitution of the commission.

Also Read: Manipur: Kuki-Zo Women’s Groups Call for Supreme Court-Led Investigation into Assam Killings

Khandu emphasized that the transfer and posting of all grades of APCS officers, including those in the later entry grade, are under consideration, and the government aims to fill the sanctioned posts systematically.

“Out of the 236 total sanctioned entry-grade officer positions in the state, there are currently only 130 officers, leaving a deficit of 106 circle officers (COs). Due to the APPSC fiasco, there has been no fresh recruitment or lateral entry of officers in the past two years. With the recruitment process set to start, the government will address the vacancies accordingly,” Khandu stated.

In response to a supplementary question, Khandu mentioned that out of the 17 sanctioned posts for administrative officers in the Tirap district, only eight positions are currently filled.

“Once the recruitment process begins, officers will be posted in the district, which borders Myanmar and Nagaland,” he added.

Manipur: Kuki-Zo Women’s Groups Call for Supreme Court-Led Investigation into Assam Killings

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Manipur: Kuki-Zo Women’s Groups Call for Supreme Court-Led Investigation into Assam Killings

1. Kuki-Zo women’s groups demand a Supreme Court investigation into alleged extra-judicial killings by Assam Police.
2. The memorandum, addressed to Home Minister Amit Shah, was jointly written by the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights and the Hmar Women Association.
3. Concerns were raised over the deaths of Lallungawi Hmar, Lalbieklien Hmar, and K. Joshua Lalrinsang in Cachar district, Assam.

Imphal, July 24: Women’s organizations from the Kuki-Zo community have submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the alleged extra-judicial killings of three youths by Assam Police.

The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights and Hmar Women Association jointly wrote the memorandum, expressing their concerns about the deaths of Lallungawi Hmar, Lalbieklien Hmar, and K. Joshua Lalrinsang in Cachar district of Assam.

“We are completely shocked by the appalling facts that have come to light during our inquiry,” stated Rebecca Hmar, President of the Hmar Women Association. The memorandum alleges gross violations of human rights and fundamental protections guaranteed by the Constitution.

Also Read: World’s Most Powerful Passports 2024: India Ranks 82nd, Singapore Takes the Top Spot

The women’s groups argue that video evidence contradicts the official police narrative of a shootout with militants. “The Assam Police lied about the cause of death of the victims to evade any further investigation that could expose the heinous crimes they had committed,” the memorandum asserts.

“The videos clearly show the men cooperating during the arrest. They posed no threat to anyone,” the memorandum reads.

In response to these allegations, protests erupted across several locations today. Simultaneous rallies were held in Churachandpur, Senvon, Chandel, Jiribam, and Haflong in Assam, with thousands demanding justice for the deceased.

The participants of the rally organized by the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights and Hmar Women Union walked from Muolvaiphei playground to the Wall of Remembrance near the peace ground.

World’s Most Powerful Passports 2024: India Ranks 82nd, Singapore Takes the Top Spot

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World’s Most Powerful Passports 2024: India Ranks 82nd, Singapore Takes the Top Spot

1. The Henley Passport Index 2024 ranks India 82nd.
2. Indian passport holders can travel to 58 countries visa-free.
3. This is a decline from last year’s 80th position.

New Delhi, July 24: The Henley Passport Index has released its 2024 ranking of the world’s most powerful passports, with India now ranked 82nd. This position allows Indian passport holders to travel to 58 countries without a visa. Compared to last year’s 80th rank, this marks a decline of two positions.

The Henley Passport Index, which compiles data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), serves as a key resource for assessing global travel privileges. India’s passport performance has varied over the years. In 2014, India was ranked 76th with access to 52 countries. By 2015, it had dropped to 88th with visa-free access to 51 nations.

Here are India’s annual rankings in recent years:

  • 2015: 88th
  • 2016: 85th
  • 2017: 87th
  • 2018: 81st
  • 2019: 82nd
  • 2020: 82nd
  • 2021: 81st
Also Read: Sikkim: National Highway 10 to Reopen for Small Vehicles Following Landslide Closure

In contrast, Singapore has regained its title as the world’s most powerful passport in the 2024 index, granting its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 countries. France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Japan follow in second place with access to 192 countries.

Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden are in the third spot, providing entry to 191 destinations.

The United Kingdom, New Zealand, Norway, Belgium, Denmark, and Switzerland share the fourth spot, demonstrating significant travel opportunities. Australia and Portugal share fifth place, while the United States has slipped to eighth, allowing visa-free access to 186 countries.

The Henley Passport Index underscores the varying degrees of global mobility offered by different national passports, reflecting international diplomatic relations and travel agreements.

Pakistan’s passport is ranked 100th, offering access to 33 countries, while Afghanistan ranks last with visa-free entry to just 26 destinations.

For nearly two decades, the Henley Passport Index has tracked travel freedoms across 227 countries and territories, using real-time updates and exclusive data from the IATA to reflect the latest changes in visa policies globally.

Sikkim: National Highway 10 to Reopen for Small Vehicles Following Landslide Closure

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Sikkim: National Highway 10 to Reopen for Small Vehicles Following Landslide Closure

1. NH10, connecting Siliguri to Sikkim, will reopen for small vehicles on July 24 or 25.
2. The District Magistrate of Kalimpong announced the reopening.
3. The highway was closed due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall.

Gangtok, July 24: The National Highway 10 (NH10), which connects Siliguri to Sikkim, is set to reopen for small vehicles this evening or tomorrow, July 24 or July 25, announced the District Magistrate of Kalimpong.

The highway was closed for several days due to multiple landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in the region.

Landslides occurred at various points along the highway, including the 29th Mile area, Selfie Dara, Birik Dara, and near Melli, forcing authorities to shut down this vital transportation route. Despite ongoing repair work, continuous rainfall in Sikkim has hindered progress.

Also Read: Nepal: 18 Reported Dead in Private Airline Crash at Kathmandu Airport

The reopening of NH10 is expected to bring relief to travelers and locals affected by the closure. However, authorities will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to ensure public safety.

Earlier, on July 1, incessant rainfall and multiple landslides resulted in the complete blockade of NH10 near Bagpul, with significant impact on the Coronation Bridge. Authorities advised commuters to take the Odlabari – Siliguri route for convenient travel.

The recommended alternate route is Odlabari > Teesta Barrage Gajaldoba > Farabari > Asigarh (Eastern Bypass Rd) > Siliguri.

Travelers are urged to follow this diversion until the blockade on NH10 is cleared to minimize delays and ensure a safe journey to Siliguri.

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