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IMD Issues ‘Heatwave to Severe Heatwave’ Alerts for Odisha and Tamil Nadu


1. IMD warns of ‘heatwave to severe heatwave’ conditions in eastern and southern India.
2. Odisha and West Bengal have faced heatwave conditions since mid-April.
3. Alerts extend to several states, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar.


Weather Update, April 24: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings of ‘heatwave to severe heatwave’ conditions in various parts of eastern and southern India over the next five days.

Affected Regions

East India: Odisha and West Bengal have been experiencing heatwave conditions since mid-April.

Southern India: The forecast predicts heatwave conditions in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and parts of Maharashtra.

High Humidity Areas: Coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Bihar are expected to experience elevated humidity levels, exacerbating discomfort.

A heatwave is officially recognized when the maximum temperature at a weather station reaches 40 degrees Celsius or higher in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly regions, with a departure from the normal temperature of at least 4.5 notches. If the departure from normal temperature exceeds 6.4 notches, it is classified as a severe heatwave.

With El Niño conditions prevailing but weakening, the IMD had previously cautioned about extreme heat during the April-June period, coinciding with the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, raising concerns about susceptibility to heatwaves.


Also Read: Ramdev’s Apology Amplified Following Supreme Court Critique

Regional Updates

Maharashtra

IMD issued a heatwave alert for Thane, Raigad, and parts of Mumbai from April 27 to 29, anticipating a temperature surge due to an anti-cyclonic circulation.

Tripura

The Tripura Disaster Management Authority issued a public advisory to minimize the impact of ongoing hot and humid weather conditions expected to persist for several days.

Odisha

Odisha reported one death and 124 hospitalizations due to heat-related ailments across 16 districts, with temperatures exceeding 45.2°C in some areas. The Meteorological Department predicted a maximum daytime temperature of 45°C in the next 24 hours.

Uttar Pradesh

Parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi and Purvanchal, experienced oppressive heat, with temperatures soaring close to 43°C.

Delhi

Delhi witnessed sudden rainfall, causing disruptions including diverted flights and injuries due to a house wall collapse. Dr. Naresh Kumar from IMD warned of temperatures reaching up to 44 degrees Celsius in Eastern India over the next few days.

Ramdev’s Apology Amplified Following Supreme Court Critique


1. Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna published a new apology in major newspapers regarding misleading Patanjali ads.
2. The apology’s size was notably increased after Supreme Court criticism for lack of prominence.
3. They expressed unconditional regret for non-compliance with Supreme Court directives in the ads.


New Delhi, April 24: Yoga guru Ramdev and his aide Acharya Balkrishna issued a fresh apology in leading newspapers regarding misleading advertisements for Patanjali’s medicinal products. This time, the apology was noticeably larger following criticism from the Supreme Court.

Contents of the Apology

In the advertisement, Ramdev and Balkrishna expressed “unconditional” apologies for their personal and Patanjali Ayurved’s non-compliance with Supreme Court directives. They promised to rectify their mistakes and ensure no recurrence of such errors.

Supreme Court’s Response

During a contempt proceedings hearing, the Supreme Court questioned the size of the published apology, hinting at concerns regarding its visibility compared to full-page advertisements.

The bench emphasized the importance of ensuring the apology’s readability without the need for magnification.


Also Read: Elon Musk Deems Tesla Layoffs ‘Necessary’, Anticipates $1 Billion Annual Savings

Explanation by Ramdev and Balkrishna

Ramdev and Balkrishna clarified that they published apologies in 67 newspapers, costing Rs 10 lakh, and were willing to issue additional advertisements to express their regret. They attributed the delayed apology to its submission just before the Supreme Court hearing.

Court’s Directive

The court instructed Patanjali to compile the advertisements for review, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding their size and visibility. The bench sought assurance that the apologies were easily legible, without requiring special equipment.

Background and Previous Apologies

Previously, Ramdev and Balkrishna had tendered apologies before the Supreme Court over advertisements promoting Patanjali’s products, notably Coronil, during the Covid-19 pandemic. The court had directed Patanjali to cease advertisements making dubious claims about medicinal efficacy.

In response to the Supreme Court’s rebuke, Patanjali Ayurved submitted an affidavit expressing unconditional regret. The company affirmed its commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles while refraining from misleading advertising practices.

The recent apology by Ramdev and Balkrishna underscores their acknowledgement of regulatory oversight and commitment to rectifying past mistakes.

The Supreme Court’s scrutiny highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in advertising practices, especially in the healthcare sector.

Elon Musk Deems Tesla Layoffs ‘Necessary’, Anticipates $1 Billion Annual Savings


1. Tesla, owned by Elon Musk, saw a substantial drop in quarterly profits due to EV market challenges.
2. Q1 earnings stood at $1.13 billion, marking a 55% decline from the previous year.
3. Revenues reached $21.3 billion in the first quarter, reflecting ongoing market complexities.


Pretoria, April 24: Tesla, under Elon Musk’s ownership, experienced a significant decline in quarterly profits amid challenges in the electric vehicle market.

In the first quarter of the year, the company recorded earnings of $1.13 billion, a 55% decrease from the same period last year, with revenues totalling $21.3 billion.

Musk described the recent job cuts at Tesla as a “necessary step” to reorganize the company for its next phase of growth.

According to Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja, the job cuts, which exceed 10% of the workforce, will result in annual cost savings of over $1 billion for Tesla.

Taneja also outlined Tesla’s plans to expedite the launch of new models ahead of the previously scheduled start of production in the second half of 2025.

These new vehicles will include more affordable models aimed at expanding Tesla’s market reach.


Also Read: Explosive Blast Shakes National Highway 2 in Kangpokpi, Manipur

Elon Musk emphasized that production on these vehicles will commence either in early 2025 or late 2024 and clarified that this timeline is not contingent on the establishment of new factories or extensive production lines.

Musk expressed confidence in Tesla’s ability to solve autonomy challenges, stating that sceptics should reconsider their investment in the company if they doubt its potential in this regard.

Despite the significant drop in quarterly profits, Tesla’s stock price saw a notable increase in after-hours trading, with shares rising by 11%.

However, the company’s stock has experienced a decline of more than 40% since the beginning of the year.

Tesla attributed its lower earnings and revenue in the first quarter to a nearly 9% decrease in worldwide sales and a decline in the gross profit margin to 17.4%.

In response to these challenges, Tesla announced its intention to focus more on the production of new, more affordable vehicles, aiming to meet the evolving demands of the electric vehicle market.

This strategic shift reflects Tesla’s commitment to innovation and adaptation in a rapidly changing industry landscape.

Explosive Blast Shakes National Highway 2 in Kangpokpi, Manipur


1. A powerful explosion hits National Highway-2 in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on April 23 night.
2. No casualties were reported, but significant damage, including three large craters on the highway.
3. Traffic disrupted, heavy vehicles movement restricted; tribal body condemns the attack.


Imphal, April 24: A powerful explosion rocked National Highway-2 near Saparmeina in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, causing significant damage to the highway.

Preliminary reports indicate no casualties, but the explosion left three large craters on the highway, disrupting traffic flow.


Also Read: Repolling in 8 Arunachal Pradesh stations for assembly elections today after violence

Restrictions on heavy vehicle movement have been imposed as a precautionary measure.

The tribal body has condemned the attack and called for an emergency meeting to address the incident and decide on further actions.

Repolling in 8 Arunachal Pradesh stations for assembly elections today after violence


1. Repolling was initiated in eight Arunachal Pradesh stations due to violence during the April 19 elections.
2. The Election Commission of India (ECI) responds to reports of violence and EVM damage.
3. The aim is to ensure fairness and integrity in the electoral process.


Itanagar, April 24: Repolling is underway in eight polling stations across Arunachal Pradesh today, following incidents of violence during the initial phase of voting for the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections on April 19.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the repolling after reports of violence and damage to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) emerged during the assembly elections in the state.

The polling stations scheduled for repolling are located in various assembly constituencies, including Sario in Bameng, Longte Loth in Nyapin, and Dingser, Bogiya Siyum, Jimbari, and Lengi in Nacho.

Additionally, repolling will occur in Bogne and Molom polling booths under the Rumgong assembly constituency.


Also Read: Women to Oversee 81 Polling Stations in Senapati District for Manipur Lok Sabha Elections 2024

During the initial phase of voting on April 19, around 76.44% of the total 8,92,694 voters cast their votes to choose 50 MLAs out of the 60-member assembly in the state.

The ruling BJP secured victory in 10 assembly seats without facing any opposition.

In neighboring Manipur, repolling was conducted at 11 polling booths across the state on April 22, following disturbances during the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The decision to repoll stemmed from incidents of violence, including an incident in which miscreants opened fire at one of the polling stations.

Despite these challenges, Manipur recorded a turnout of 72% across its two Lok Sabha constituencies – Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur – during the initial elections.

Today’s repolling in Arunachal Pradesh aims to ensure fair and peaceful elections, providing voters with another opportunity to cast their ballots without any disruptions.

The Election Commission is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and security of voters and polling personnel.

Women to Oversee 81 Polling Stations in Senapati District for Manipur Lok Sabha Elections 2024


1. DC Mamoni Doley highlights women’s role in managing 81 polling stations for Manipur Elections.
2. Trained polling personnel to ensure smooth conduct of the election across 228 stations.
3. Women will exclusively manage 81 polling stations, ensuring diverse participation in the electoral process.


Imphal, April 24: Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate Mamoni Doley disclosed the arrangements for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections in Senapati, Manipur, highlighting the involvement of women in managing polling stations.

With 228 polling stations spread across three assembly segments, Doley assured that well-trained polling personnel are in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the election day. Notably, 81 polling stations will be managed entirely by women.

Collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies, including the police and various security forces such as the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) and state armed forces, assessments have been conducted to uphold law and order during the electoral process.


Also Read: Arunachal Doctor Tops NEET MDS-2024, Receives Congratulations from CM Khandu

Doley urged the public to actively participate in the elections and expressed confidence in maintaining a peaceful environment throughout the electoral proceedings.

In preparations for the second phase of Lok Sabha Elections, Deputy Commissioner Mamoni Doley stated, “We have 228 polling stations across three assembly segments in our district. Our polling personnel are well-trained for a smooth election day. Eighty-one polling stations will be managed by women. We have collaborated with the police for law and order assessments, and security deployment, including CAPF and state armed forces, has been meticulously planned. We encourage everyone to come out and vote in large numbers. We are optimistic that the electoral process will proceed without any law and order issues.”

The remaining segments of the Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency are scheduled for elections on April 26, as announced by Chief Electoral Officer Pradeep Jha.

Official data indicates that a total of 484,949 voters are eligible to cast their votes in the second phase, comprising 239,140 male voters, 245,807 female electors, and 2 individuals belonging to the third gender category.

Arunachal Doctor Tops NEET MDS-2024, Receives Congratulations from CM Khandu


1. Strongest quake: Magnitude-6.3 hits eastern Hualien.
2. Activity starts: Magnitude-5.5 tremor felt in Taipei at 5:08 pm local time.
3. Central Weather Administration monitors seismic events overnight.


Itanagar, April 23: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to X today to congratulate Dr. Chatoi Socia for securing the prestigious All India Rank 1 (Scheduled Tribe category) in the NEET MDS 2024 examination.

In his tweet, CM Khandu lauded Dr. Socia’s dedication and hard work, calling her achievement an inspiration for youth nationwide.

He extended his best wishes for her future endeavors.


Also Read: PM Modi Alleges Hanuman Chalisa Treated as a Crime During Congress Rule

The NEET MDS 2024 examination, held on March 18, 2024, saw numerous aspiring dental professionals competing for top ranks.

After a thorough evaluation, the results were announced on April 3, 2024, unveiling the merit list and cutoff marks.

Dr. Chatoi emerged as the top-ranked candidate among ST category aspirants, according to the scorecards released on April 15, 2024.

PM Modi Alleges Hanuman Chalisa Treated as a Crime During Congress Rule


1. PM Modi criticized Congress, alleging that Hanuman Chalisa listening was deemed a crime in Rajasthan.
2. He addressed a rally in Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, highlighting the alleged ban under Congress rule.
3. Modi’s remarks came amidst controversy over his comments on Muslims and Congress’s policies.


Jaipur, April 23: Amid the controversy over his “Muslims” remark, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress in Rajasthan, accusing the party of considering listening to Hanuman Chalisa a crime.

Speaking at a rally in Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, PM Modi claimed that during the Congress-led government’s tenure in Rajasthan, even listening to Hanuman Chalisa was prohibited. He alleged that the Congress had banned Ram Navami celebrations in the state.

“In the rule of Congress, even listening to Hanuman Chalisa becomes a crime. Rajasthan has been its sufferer…For the first time on Ram Navami this time, a Shobha Yatra procession was taken out in Rajasthan…In a state like Rajasthan where people chant Ram-Ram, Congress banned Ram Navami,” PM Modi asserted.

PM Modi also referenced an incident in Congress-ruled Karnataka where a shopkeeper was reportedly assaulted for playing Hanuman Chalisa in his shop.

“While talking to you today on Hanuman Jayanti, I remember a picture from a few days ago. A few days ago, in Congress-ruled Karnataka, a shopkeeper was brutally beaten up only because he was listening to Hanuman Chalisa while sitting in his shop,” PM Modi said.


Also Read: Tripura’s CPIM Raises Concerns Over Polling Discrepancies in Letter to ECI

Regarding his previous statement about the Congress planning to redistribute people’s hard-earned money among Muslims, PM Modi accused the party and the INDIA bloc of panicking because he spoke the truth.

“The day before yesterday in Rajasthan, I put forth some truth in front of the country and the entire Congress and INDI alliance went into a panic. I put forth the truth that Congress is plotting to snatch your property and distribute it to their special people,” he said.

However, PM Modi’s remarks have drawn criticism from the Opposition, who labeled them as hate speech.

“When I exposed their politics, they got so angry that they started abusing Modi…I want to know from Congress why they are so afraid of the truth. Why do they hide their policy so much, when you yourself made the policy then why are you afraid to accept it now…If you have the courage then accept it, we are ready to face you,” PM Modi added.

US 2023 Human Rights Report Highlights Manipur Abuses and Hardeep Nijjar Killing


1. 2023 US Report: Significant abuses in Manipur post-May 2023 ethnic conflict outbreak.
2. Over 175 dead, and 60,000 were displaced amid the ongoing Meitei-Kuki-Zo tribal conflict.
3. Human Rights Report highlights violence and displacements in Manipur’s ethnic strife aftermath.


Imphal, April 23: The 2023 Human Rights Report by the United States State Department sheds light on significant abuses in Manipur, particularly following the outbreak of ethnic conflict in May 2023.

At least 175 people lost their lives, and over 60,000 were displaced due to ongoing conflict between the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zo tribal community.

The report details armed conflict, rapes, assaults, and the destruction of property, with activists and journalists reporting on the ground.

Criticism of Government Response

Criticism has been directed at the Indian government’s response, with the Supreme Court pointing out its ineffectiveness in halting the violence.

Security forces were deployed, daily curfews were implemented, and internet shutdowns were enforced in response to the escalating violence, as highlighted in the report.

Media Freedom and BBC Tax Surveys

The report also addresses concerns regarding media freedom and the BBC tax surveys. It notes a disturbing trend of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests, and the use of criminal libel laws to suppress dissent.

Tax authorities conducted searches at BBC offices, seizing equipment from journalists not involved in financial processes. These actions followed the release of a documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots titled “India: The Modi Question,” sparking controversy.


Also Read: Tripura’s CPIM Raises Concerns Over Polling Discrepancies in Letter to ECI

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorism and Human Rights Violations

Human rights abuses in regions affected by terrorism, such as Jammu and Kashmir, are also highlighted. The report mentions extrajudicial actions by state agents and raises concerns about state-sponsored violence against individuals in other countries.

Notably, the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada is cited as indicative of such actions.

International Reprisals and Calls for Accountability

The report underscores allegations of reprisals by the Indian government against individuals abroad and calls for accountability.

It urges India to uphold its human rights obligations and commitments, emphasizing the importance of respecting fundamental rights and freedoms.

In light of these findings, Robert Gilchrist, a senior bureau official at the US State Department, emphasizes the need for India to adhere to its human rights obligations and commitments.

Tripura’s CPIM Raises Concerns Over Polling Discrepancies in Letter to ECI


1. Chaudhury addressed alleged irregularities in the West Tripura parliamentary election in a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.
2. He outlined discrepancies in polled votes across two significant assembly segments.
3. The discrepancies indicate possible irregularities, warranting the demand for fresh polls to uphold democracy’s integrity.


Agartala, April 23: Tripura’s Leader of Opposition, Jitendra Chaudhury, wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, highlighting alleged irregularities in the West Tripura parliamentary election.

Chaudhury detailed discrepancies observed in the polled votes across two crucial assembly segments.

In the 10-Majlishpur Assembly, 574 votes were purportedly cast, surpassing the registered voter count of 545.


Also Read: Supreme Court criticizes slow implementation of Disability Rights Act in Arunachal and other states

Similarly, in the 5-Kayerpur Assembly, 1292 votes were recorded, exceeding the total voter tally of 1290.

Chaudhury underscored that such disparities strongly indicate irregularities in the elections for the 1-Tripura West Parliamentary Constituency and the concurrent bye-election for the 7-Ramnagar Assembly Constituency.

He emphasized the demand for fresh polls to prevent undermining the people’s mandate and protect the sanctity of democracy.

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