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Monsoon Forces Closure of Orang National Park to Tourists in Assam


1. Orang National Park stops tourist activities today, announced by Mangaldoi Wildlife Division.
2. Closure includes halting jeep and elephant safaris within the park.
3. Rich biodiversity, including rhinos, tigers, elephants, and bird species, necessitates this precaution.


Guwahati, May 16: As of today, Orang National Park, known for its rich biodiversity including 125 rhinos, 26 tigers, elephants, deer, and various bird species, has ceased its tourist activities, as announced by the Mangaldoi Wildlife Division.

This closure includes suspending the popular jeep and elephant safaris within the park.

This annual closure is a precautionary measure taken due to the onset of the monsoon season, which exacerbates the condition of the park’s internal roads.

Pradipta Barua, a representative of the park’s wildlife authority, stressed that this decision is made each year to safeguard the wildlife.

“This period is very sensitive for the animals. The noise from vehicles and the presence of tourists can cause significant distress to them,” Barua elaborated.

A noteworthy development is the recent increase in the number of tigers within the park, indicating a positive trend in its conservation efforts.


Also Read: Indian Football Captain Sunil Chhetri Announces Retirement after World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait

The temporary closure aims to create a peaceful environment for all species during the challenging monsoon months.

Both tourists and safari operators are urged to respect the closure in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the park’s inhabitants.

The Mangaldoi Wildlife Division will continue to provide updates as the monsoon season progresses.

Indian Football Captain Sunil Chhetri Announces Retirement after World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait


1. Sunil Chhetri, India’s football icon, announces retirement from international football.
2. Retirement declared via heartfelt video on social media platform X.
3. Final appearance in Indian jersey to be in FIFA World Cup Qualifier match against Kuwait.


Sports, May 16: Sunil Chhetri, India’s iconic footballer, has declared his retirement from international football.

Through a heartfelt video on social media platform X, he revealed that the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifier match against Kuwait will mark his final appearance in the Indian jersey.

Reflecting on a Storied Career

Chhetri reminisced about his illustrious 19-year journey, filled with moments of duty, pressure, and immense joy. His decision to retire came after much contemplation, with the realization dawning on him during the past few months.

A Journey of Glory

Sunil Chhetri’s career has been a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. From his debut with Mohun Bagan in 2002 to his current tenure with Bengaluru FC, he has left an indelible mark on Indian football. Notable stints abroad, including spells with Kansas City Wizards and Sporting CP reserves, enriched his experience and honed his skills.


Also Read: Assam’s Mehedi Hassan Wins Gold at National Athletics Championship

The Magic on the Field

Chhetri’s international journey is studded with numerous achievements, including victories in prestigious tournaments like the Nehru Cup and the SAFF Championship. His crowning moment came in 2008 when his crucial goals secured India’s first AFC Asian Cup appearance in 27 years.

Goal-Scoring Maestro

Sunil Chhetri’s prowess in front of goal is legendary. With 94 goals in 150 international appearances, he stands as one of the most prolific goal-scorers in the world. His record-breaking performances, including surpassing Indian legend I.M. Vijayan’s goal tally in the 2011 SAFF Championship, cemented his status as India’s highest scorer.

A Legacy of Excellence

Across club and country, Chhetri’s goal-scoring prowess has been unmatched. With 252 goals in 515 appearances, he has consistently delivered stellar performances, earning accolades and admiration from fans and peers alike. FIFA’s tribute to him with the documentary “Captain Fantastic” in 2022 is a testament to his enduring legacy.

Looking Ahead

As Sunil Chhetri bids farewell to international football, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration.

His dedication, skill, and passion for the game have inspired generations of footballers in India and beyond. While his final match against Kuwait will mark the end of an era, his impact on Indian football will be felt for years to come.

Assam’s Mehedi Hassan Wins Gold at National Athletics Championship


1. Assam’s Mehedi Hassan won gold in the men’s 1500-meter run at the 27th National Federation Senior Athletics Competition.
2. Hassan finished with a time of 3:42.82.
3. He was nearly a second ahead of second-place Abhishek Singh Thakur from Madhya Pradesh.


Guwahati, May 16: Assam sprinter Mehedi Hassan clinched the gold medal in the men’s 1500-meter run at the recently concluded 27th National Federation Senior Athletics Competition held in Odisha.

Hassan’s remarkable performance secured the top spot with a timing of 3:42.82, nearly a second ahead of Madhya Pradesh’s Abhishek Singh Thakur, who claimed the second position. Yoonus Shah from Uttar Pradesh completed the podium, securing the third position.

The prestigious athletics event took place at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital, spanning three days from May 12 to May 15. Organized by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), it showcased the country’s top athletic talent competing in various disciplines. This year’s competition saw a high level of participation and intense competition, making Hassan’s victory even more noteworthy.

Mehedi Hassan, a native of North Athiabari near Barpeta Road in Assam, has been steadily climbing the ranks in the athletics world. Last year, he clinched a bronze medal in the men’s 1500-meter sprint event at the Asian U20 Athletics Championship held in Yecheon, South Korea.

His outstanding achievement was recognized by the Assam Athletics Association (AAA), which felicitated him for his stellar performance. Assam’s Sports Minister, Nandita Gorlosa, also honored him at a ceremony held in a hotel in Guwahati.

The felicitation ceremony was attended by esteemed personalities including Gitartha Goswami, Member Secretary of the State Level Advisory Committee for Students and Youth Welfare; Hemanta Kalita, Secretary General of the Boxing Federation of India; Lakhya Konwar and Ashok Bharali, President and General Secretary of AAA; Pradeep Timung, Director of Sports and Youth Welfare, along with Mehedi’s father, Abul Kalam Azad.

Also Read: Sikkim Governor Lakshman Acharya Advocates for Progress and Unity on 49th Statehood Day

Expressing his gratitude, Mehedi Hassan remarked, “I want to thank Assam Athletics Association for the recognition and felicitation bestowed upon me today. At the same time, I want to thank all my coaches for their constant support and guidance towards enhancing my performance.”

Hassan’s journey to success began at the Sarusajai Sports Complex under the mentorship of coaches Nipon Das and Nabajit Malakar. His initial training at this complex laid a strong foundation for his athletic prowess.

Recognizing his potential, Hassan moved to Kolkata to further hone his skills and take his training to the next level. Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, Hassan persevered, driven by the unwavering support of his coaches and family members.

Hassan’s determination and resilience have been crucial in his journey. Overcoming injuries and maintaining a rigorous training schedule, he has demonstrated exceptional dedication to his sport.

His recent victory at the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition is a testament to his hard work and the solid support system surrounding him. As he continues to build on his successes, Hassan remains a beacon of inspiration for young athletes in Assam and across India.

Looking ahead, Mehedi Hassan aims to continue his upward trajectory in athletics, aspiring to represent India on bigger platforms and bring more laurels to his home state.

His achievements highlight the importance of dedication, rigorous training, and the critical role of support from coaches and family in reaching the pinnacle of success in sports.

Sikkim Governor Lakshman Acharya Advocates for Progress and Unity on 49th Statehood Day


1. Governor Lakshman Acharya extended heartfelt greetings on Sikkim’s 49th Statehood Day.
2. He highlighted the transformative journey of progress and prosperity since Sikkim’s democratic integration.
3. Acharya emphasized Sikkim’s distinctive identity and remarkable advancements over the past 49 years.


Gangtok, May 16: On the occasion of Sikkim’s 49th Statehood Day, Governor Lakshman Acharya extended heartfelt greetings to the people, recognizing this significant milestone in the state’s history since its embrace of democracy nearly five decades ago.

He reflected on the transformative journey of progress and prosperity that has defined Sikkim’s integration with India, emphasizing the state’s distinctive identity and remarkable advancements over the past 49 years.

Governor Acharya took to Facebook to share his thoughts on this special day.

He wrote, “Today marks Sikkim’s completion of 49 years in the democratic system. The journey from voluntary integration into the world’s largest democracy on 16 May 1975 until today has been profoundly memorable and meaningful for Sikkim and its people. Sikkim has achieved remarkable development in various sectors, including social, economic, cultural, and infrastructure, under the democratic system, setting an example for other states and strengthening democracy.”

He further added, “The natural beauty of Sikkim, its peaceful environment, rich religious traditions, and ethnic harmony serve as inspiration for the entire nation. On this auspicious occasion, I call upon the people of our state to unite and propel Sikkim towards greater heights of progress and prosperity, striving to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat @2047.”


Also Read: Four Zilla Parishad Members in Arunachal Disqualified for Defecting to NCP

Governor Acharya urged the people of Sikkim to uphold peace and fraternity, fulfilling their commitment to lead the state towards unprecedented development.

He encouraged everyone to seize the opportunity to sustain Sikkim’s development trajectory by utilizing natural and human resources conscientiously.

His address underscored the importance of preserving Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage and traditional values while committing to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.

In his message, Governor Acharya highlighted several key areas for collective dedication. He stressed the importance of overcoming challenges and steering the state toward a brighter future characterized by excellence in education, accessible healthcare, and the seamless integration of technology across all aspects of life.

He called for unity in creating opportunities for youth, promoting gender equality, reforming the education system to meet contemporary needs, fostering a conducive business environment, supporting farmers, and prioritizing citizen-centric governance.

Governor Acharya also emphasized the critical role of a free and safe press and media in the state’s progress.

He pointed out that responsible and independent media is essential for the functioning of a healthy democracy, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and their rights protected.

Respect for intellectual and civil society was also highlighted as a cornerstone for Sikkim’s continuous growth and development.

The Governor’s address reflected his vision for a prosperous and inclusive Sikkim.

He spoke of the need to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, urging the youth to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

He also highlighted the significance of sustainable development, advocating for the conservation of Sikkim’s natural resources while pursuing economic growth.

Governor Acharya’s call to action was clear: the people of Sikkim must work together to achieve the common goal of making Sikkim a model state in India. He expressed confidence that with unity and determination, Sikkim could overcome any obstacle and reach new heights of success.

As Sikkim celebrated its 49th Statehood Day, Governor Acharya’s message served as a reminder of the state’s achievements and the potential for future progress.

His call for unity, preservation of cultural heritage, and commitment to development resonated with the aspirations of the people, setting a positive tone for the years to come.

Four Zilla Parishad Members in Arunachal Disqualified for Defecting to NCP


1. DC Vivek HP disqualifies four Zilla Parishad members from the Keyi Panyor/Lower Subansiri district.
2. Members found guilty of violating anti-defection law by switching from BJP to NCP.
3. They supported NCP’s candidate prior to the assembly election, leading to their disqualification.


Itanagar, May 16: In a significant development concerning Arunachal Pradesh’s political landscape, Deputy Commissioner Vivek HP has issued a disqualification order against four Zilla Parishad members representing Keyi Panyor/Lower Subansiri district.

These members were found guilty of violating the anti-defection law by defecting from the BJP to the NCP (Ajit Pawar) and supporting its candidate ahead of the assembly election.

The disqualification order, executed under the Arunachal Pradesh Local Authorities (Prohibition of Defection) Act, 2003, underscores the serious consequences of the members’ actions.

Despite the BJP’s expulsion of the defectors for anti-party activities and subsequent appeals, the DC upheld the disqualification following three hearings where arguments were presented by representatives of both the BJP and the Zilla Parishad members.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Claims 12.5 Million Bangladeshi Infiltrators Entered Assam Over 40 Years

A key aspect leading to the disqualification was the misunderstanding among the ZPMs regarding the district’s bifurcation. They erroneously believed that they constituted a majority in the Zilla Parishad for Keyi Panyor.

However, investigations revealed that the Zilla Parishad had not yet been constituted for Keyi Panyor district, raising doubts about the legality of the members’ actions.

Furthermore, the issue of bifurcation was referred to the State Election Commission, which clarified that the Zilla Parishad had not been formed for Keyi Panyor district.

Despite the ZPMs’ attempts to rejoin the BJP by withdrawing their resignation, their requests were not entertained by the disciplinary action committee of the BJP Arunachal Pradesh.

The decision to proceed with the disqualification during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) also faced scrutiny, prompting the matter to be referred to the Chief Election Officer (CEO) for clarification before the order was issued.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Claims 12.5 Million Bangladeshi Infiltrators Entered Assam Over 40 Years


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted illegal immigration from Bangladesh.
2. Addressing an event in Jharkhand, Sarma stressed the gravity of the issue.
3. He revealed the four-decade-long struggle Assam has faced due to this challenge.


Guwahati, May 16: Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, sounded the alarm, drawing attention to the persistent challenge of illegal immigration from Bangladesh into the state.

Speaking at an event in Jharkhand, Sarma underscored the seriousness of the situation, revealing that this issue has plagued Assam for the past four decades.

Reflecting on the origins of the problem, Sarma pointed out that the infiltration from Bangladesh commenced during the reign of the Congress party four decades ago.

He lamented the lack of foresight regarding the long-term consequences of this infiltration, which has now resulted in an estimated 1.25 crore infiltrators from Bangladesh residing in Assam.

Sarma emphasized that verbal assurances alone would not suffice in addressing this pressing issue.

The Chief Minister expressed deep concerns about the erosion of Assamese identity due to this influx and urged the people of Jharkhand to learn from Assam’s and West Bengal’s mistakes by preventing Rohingya infiltration into their state.


Also Read: 14 Individuals Receive First Citizenship Certificates under CAA

Sarma called for concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric to combat this multifaceted challenge. He cautioned against repeating historical errors and urged stakeholders to take proactive measures to safeguard Assam’s security and integrity.

Furthermore, Sarma highlighted apprehensions regarding the dwindling presence of temples and alleged instances of Hindu women becoming victims of what he termed “love jihad.”

He emphasized the importance of protecting Hindu heritage sites and ensuring the safety of Hindu communities in Assam.

Sarma pointed to financial contributions made by individuals like Alamgir Alam, raising concerns about potential threats faced by Hindus in the region.

In a related development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) detained Jharkhand’s Rural Development Minister, Alamgir Alam, a prominent Congress leader, in connection with a money laundering case on the same day.

The 70-year-old minister was arrested at the agency’s zonal office in Ranchi under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after undergoing extensive interrogation for six hours.

This arrest follows the earlier detention of Alam’s personal secretary, Sanjeev Kumar Lal, and Lal’s domestic aide, Jahangir Alam, after the ED discovered over Rs 32 crore in cash from a flat associated with them.

The ongoing money laundering probe revolves around allegations of irregularities and purported payment of “bribes” within Jharkhand’s rural development department.

The ED has alleged that Lal was collecting “commission” on behalf of influential figures, implicating government officials across various levels within the rural department in an alleged nexus of illicit cash transactions.

14 Individuals Receive First Citizenship Certificates under CAA


1. Fourteen individuals received citizenship certificates under the CAA, signifying a notable milestone.
2. The issuance occurred about two months post the Centre’s notification of the CAA rules.
3. Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla presented the certificates to the recipients.


New Delhi, May 15: The issuance of the first set of citizenship certificates under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) marked a significant milestone, with 14 individuals receiving their certificates on Wednesday.

This event comes nearly two months after the Centre notified the rules governing the implementation of the CAA.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the rules on March 11, four years after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act by Parliament in December 2019.

The CAA provides a fast-track pathway to Indian citizenship for minorities persecuted on religious grounds in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

On Wednesday, after processing their applications online, 14 individuals were presented with their citizenship certificates by Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla.


Also Read: Manipur Government Allocates 30 Acres for Conservation of Manipuri Ponies

The CAA amends the Citizenship Act of 1955 to extend citizenship rights to migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Parsi, Buddhist, and Christian communities who entered India on or before December 31, 2014, due to religious persecution in their home countries.

The legislation has sparked widespread debate and protests across India.

In March, the Kerala government led by Pinarayi Vijayan moved the Supreme Court against the implementation of the CAA, arguing that it violated the fundamental principles of the Constitution.

Last month, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram announced plans to repeal the CAA in the first session of Parliament after the formation of the INDIA bloc government at the Centre.

However, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government has staunchly defended the implementation of the legislation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated the purpose of the CAA in a tweet, stating that it would enable minorities persecuted on religious grounds in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan to acquire citizenship in India.

Despite ongoing debates and protests, the issuance of citizenship certificates represents a tangible step forward in the implementation of the CAA.

Manipur Government Allocates 30 Acres for Conservation of Manipuri Ponies


1. Manipur government allocates 30 acres at Lamphelpat, Imphal West, for preserving Manipuri ponies.
2. The initiative aims to safeguard the breed deeply rooted in Manipur and Assam’s history and mythology.
3. Conservation efforts are crucial as Manipuri ponies face a declining population, posing challenges for owners.


Imphal, May 15: The Manipur government has taken a significant step towards conserving the renowned Manipuri ponies, a breed of small horses deeply entrenched in the history and mythology of Manipur and Assam.

They have allocated 30 acres of land at Lamphelpat, Imphal West, for this purpose.

CM Biren Singh announced the move on his social media handle, stating that the allotted area would provide a new home for the endangered Manipuri Ponies to freely roam and graze.

He emphasized the state government’s commitment to protecting these ponies, considering their integral role in Manipur’s history and culture.

Singh also commended the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association for their efforts in saving the endangered breed.


Also Read: Election Commission Accepts Nomination of Jailed Pro-Khalistani Leader Amritpal Singh for LS Polls

In 2016, the Manipur government passed the Manipur Pony Conservation and Development Policy, recognizing the decline in the species’ population.

According to census data, the population decreased from 1,898 in 2003 to 1,101 in 2012.

In January 2023, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a 122-foot-tall statue of a polo player mounted on a pony at the shrine of Ibudhou Marjing, revered as the God of Pony, Polo, and War in Manipur.

Shah expressed optimism that the statue would inspire more youngsters to engage in the sport of polo, which has its origins in Manipur.

Despite their significance in polo, the population of Manipuri ponies continues to decline, posing challenges for pony owners.

Census data indicates an annual decrease of at least eight ponies, putting this iconic breed at risk of extinction.

Election Commission Accepts Nomination of Jailed Pro-Khalistani Leader Amritpal Singh for LS Polls


1. The Election Commission of India accepted Amritpal Singh’s nomination form on May 15.
2. Singh, incarcerated under NSA in Dibrugarh Jail, contests LS polls as independent from Punjab’s Khadoor Sahib.
3. Voting in Punjab is scheduled for June 1; Khadoor Sahib holds significance with a large Sikh voter base.


Dibrugarh, May 15: On May 15, the Election Commission of India approved the nomination form of Amritpal Singh, the incarcerated chief of ‘Waris Punjab De’.

Singh, presently imprisoned under the National Security Act (NSA) at Dibrugarh Jail, Assam, has filed his candidacy for the Lok Sabha elections as an independent candidate from the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha constituency in Punjab.


Also Read: Tripura: Railway Network Electrification Set for Completion by August 2024

Notably, voting in Punjab is scheduled for June 1.

The Khadoor Sahib constituency holds significance due to its large Sikh voter base, constituting 75.15 percent of the electorate in the state.

Moreover, it is the sole constituency that spans across all three regions of Punjab – Malwa, Majha, and Doaba, often referred to as ‘Mini-Punjab’.

Tripura: Railway Network Electrification Set for Completion by August 2024


1. NFR targets Lumding to Sabroom track electrification in Tripura by August, official confirms.
2. 165 km of 265 km track electrified from Dharmanagar to Sabroom via Agartala.
3. Remaining 100 km set for electrification completion before August, announces official.


Agartala, May 15: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) aims to complete the electrification of the railway track from Lumding to Sabroom in Tripura before August this year, according to an official announcement on Wednesday.

Of the total 265 km track from Dharmanagar to Sabroom via Agartala, electrification along 165 km has been accomplished, with the remaining 100 km slated for completion by August, stated the official.

The electrification project from Lumding to Badarpur (172 km), considered a hill section, has also seen significant progress, with 85 per cent of the work already completed, said Chief Public Relations Officer of NFR, Sabyasachi De.


Also Read: Report: 67,000 Displaced by Violence in Manipur

De further highlighted that 65 per cent of the tracks under the NFR jurisdiction have been electrified, thus enhancing the railway network in the northeast. In Assam, 55 per cent of the total railway tracks have been covered in the ongoing electrification initiative.

The completion of electrification work from Lumding to Sabroom via Agartala will potentially pave the way for premier trains like Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat to operate up to Agartala. Steps have been taken to expedite the electrification project to facilitate this, added De.

Emphasizing the NFR’s plan to gradually phase out diesel-run trains, De noted the benefits of electric trains, citing significant cost savings on diesel expenditure.

“The transition to electric trains will be cost-effective and advantageous for the NFR. Moreover, it will contribute to reduced carbon emissions once trains are powered by electricity,” stated De.

The Centre has allocated Rs 260 crore for upgrading Agartala station to world-class standards, while an additional Rs 93 crore has been earmarked for converting three railway stations – Dharmanagar, Udaipur, and Kumarghat – into Amrit Bharat stations, according to De.

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