Key questions before the PAC will revolve around how SEBI conducted its investigation into the allegations against the Adani Group. The American research firm Hindenburg had made serious accusations against Adani, claiming that the group used unethical methods to inflate its stock prices. SEBI had launched an investigation into the matter, but its impartiality is being questioned. Following the Hindenburg report, Congress also leveled several accusations against SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch. Congress claims that Buch and her husband have close ties with Adani, which could influence SEBI’s investigation. Additionally, Congress has alleged that a consultancy company promoted by Buch, Agora Advisory Private Limited, was paid approximately Rs 3 crore by SEBI, which represents a conflict of interest. However, Buch has dismissed all these allegations, calling them false.

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee is conducting a financial performance review of SEBI, an unusual occurrence. The PAC is scrutinizing SEBI’s accounts in detail, marking the first time the committee has focused so seriously on SEBI’s functioning. In a PAC meeting on August 29, the decision was made to inspect SEBI’s accounts, leading to the summoning of Buch and other officials.

As for Covid-19, the first case in India also emerged from Kerala. In 2020, a student returning from China tested positive for the virus. Since then, Kerala has repeatedly reported early cases of global diseases. This raises the question: why are these diseases first detected in Kerala? One primary reason for the early detection of global diseases in Kerala is the state’s large NRI (Non-Resident Indian) population. About 2.2 million people from Kerala live abroad, with the majority working in Gulf countries. According to a report by Deccan Herald, the Gulf is a major source of employment for a significant portion of Kerala’s population. Additionally, many students from Kerala travel abroad for higher education.

People working in countries like the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and others frequently travel to Kerala. When they return, they may unknowingly bring diseases with them. Therefore, when a global pandemic or infection occurs, Kerala is often one of the first places to detect cases. In 2020, the country’s first Covid-19 patient was also a student returning from China. Kerala’s health department remains highly vigilant, especially when a new disease spreads worldwide. Strict screening measures are implemented at airports to catch infections before they spread. When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Monkeypox a public health emergency, Kerala quickly began screening at its airports.

However, experts believe that airport screenings have their limitations. At a basic level, the tests are done, but unless a major advisory is issued by the government or WHO, these screenings may not always be fully effective. Moreover, identifying early symptoms can often be challenging, leading to delays in detecting infections. The importance of Kerala’s NRI population is underscored by the fact that during the elections held in April 2024, 22,000 NRI citizens returned home in just two days. The total number of registered NRI voters stood at 89,839. With such a large number of people connected to Gulf countries and their constant movement to and from Kerala, the state becomes a hotspot for the spread of any global disease.

Earlier, the Supreme Court’s YouTube channel was used for live streaming court hearings and public interest cases. However, after the hack, a video titled “Brad Garlinghouse Reacts to SEC’s $2 Billion Fine! XRP Price Prediction” was live-streamed. The video featured Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple Labs, discussing the future price prediction of Ripple’s cryptocurrency XRP (XRP). The Supreme Court’s YouTube channel used to live stream court proceedings, particularly those related to the Constitution Bench. In 2018, under the leadership of then-Chief Justice UU Lalit, the court unanimously decided to live broadcast hearings of the Constitution Bench for public view. Since then, the Supreme Court has live-streamed several public interest litigations and significant cases. This step was taken to enhance the transparency of the judiciary, allowing citizens to directly watch the proceedings of the highest court.

Full details of the Supreme Court’s YouTube channel hacking incident are not yet available. According to The Indian Express, a senior official stated that there were some issues in accessing the channel, after which the Supreme Court’s IT team immediately took the matter seriously and referred it to the National Informatics Centre (NIC). The NIC team is currently investigating the matter to determine how the hacking occurred and how the channel’s security was compromised.

This incident has raised questions about the digital security of important institutions like the Supreme Court. While digital platforms are being used to promote transparency in the judiciary, such incidents expose security vulnerabilities. Strengthening the security of YouTube channels and other digital assets of government institutions has become even more important after this incident.

Modi also reassured that Jammu-Kashmir will be granted statehood again. He reiterated this promise in Parliament and mentioned that the state would regain its status. He criticized Congress and NC, stating that Pakistan has exposed these parties as their agendas align with Pakistan’s. The Prime Minister remarked that following the abrogation of Article 370, terrorism and separatism have weakened. He also referenced the recent attack on devotees and paid tribute to martyr Vijay Kumar. Modi emphasized that Jammu-Kashmir is progressing towards lasting peace and will be completely free of terrorism.

Addressing the people of Reasi and Udhampur, Modi accused Congress, NC, and PDP of stalling the file for the construction of the Chenab Bridge. He noted that this bridge, approved during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government, has now become a significant facility and attraction. Attacking Congress further, Modi claimed the party is engaged in vote-bank politics and is undermining the Dogra heritage. He labeled the Congress royal family as corrupt and described it as the root of corruption in India. Modi also criticized a member of the Congress royal family for making derogatory remarks about deities abroad.

Modi praised BJP’s achievements, stating that the party has eliminated decades-old discrimination and has worked to honor Jammu-Kashmir’s faith and culture. He criticized Congress for continually jeopardizing faith and culture for electoral gains.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a visit to his home state of Gujarat, where he is staying at Raj Bhavan in Ahmedabad. This morning, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel met with the Prime Minister and presented him with a bouquet of flowers and a book, offering his birthday wishes. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his special birthday wishes to Prime Minister Modi. He said, “Today is Prime Minister Modi’s birthday, and many organizations across the country are celebrating it as a ‘Service Fortnight’.” Shah mentioned that in the last 10 years, more than 15 countries have honored Prime Minister Modi with their highest awards, thus elevating India’s pride.

Shah praised the Prime Minister’s political journey and leadership, saying, “After 60 years, a leader has been elected as Prime Minister for the third consecutive time, bringing political stability to India. Over the last decade, the Modi government has achieved great success in strengthening both internal and external security.” Shah further added that India has now become the most preferred manufacturing hub in the world, and the credit for this success goes to Prime Minister Modi’s visionary policies.

On Prime Minister Modi’s birthday, several state chief ministers also sent their well-wishes. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami all extended their birthday greetings to the Prime Minister on his 74th birthday. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, along with wishing the Prime Minister, also congratulated the people of his state on Vishwakarma Jayanti. He said, “I extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and wish for the country’s progress under his leadership.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also congratulated the Prime Minister, saying, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is on the path to becoming an economic superpower. I hope he continues to lead us in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.” Shinde further added that Maharashtra is making every possible effort to contribute to the goal of a $5 trillion economy. He said, “The 21st century belongs to India because Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at the helm.”

Prime Minister Modi’s leadership is being widely discussed across the country. The improvements seen in India’s global standing over the past 10 years are a result of his visionary leadership. India’s relations with various countries have improved, and the nation has secured a prominent position on the global stage. Prime Minister Modi’s birthday is being celebrated nationwide through various events. As part of the “Service Fortnight,” several social activities are being organized, including health camps, blood donation drives, environmental conservation campaigns, and other service-oriented activities.

After his visit to Gujarat, Prime Minister Modi has now departed for Odisha. During this trip, the launch of several important schemes and programs is expected, which will add a new chapter to the country’s development. Thus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 74th birthday was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country, with people from all walks of life extending their heartfelt wishes to him.

The Modi government currently relies on the support of its allies. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has the backing of major parties like JDU (Janata Dal-United) and TDP (Telugu Desam Party). These parties are part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and are supporting the government’s idea of ‘One Nation, One Election.’ It is being reported that all parties within the NDA are in favor of this concept and are ready for its implementation.

This idea is not just a government agenda but has been presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the public and other political parties multiple times. The BJP’s 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto also promised ‘One Nation, One Election.’ In his Independence Day speech this year, PM Modi urged political parties to come together in this direction. He said, “The demand of the time is that we achieve the resolution of ‘One Nation, One Election.'” It is expected that this will make the election process simpler and more time-bound.

The government formed a committee to study and deliberate on this issue, chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. The committee recently submitted its report to the government. According to the report, the committee recommended that the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections should be held together first. Following that, local body elections should be held within 100 days, so that elections at all levels can be completed within a fixed timeframe.

The primary aim of ‘One Nation, One Election’ is to reduce the frequency of elections and save resources. Frequent elections place a financial and administrative burden on both the government and the public. Holding elections simultaneously would lower administrative costs and reduce disruptions to developmental projects. However, there are arguments against this proposal. Opposition parties argue that it could harm regional parties and local issues might get overshadowed by national issues. Additionally, there are concerns that holding simultaneous elections could affect the parliamentary and democratic process.

PM Modi asked the public if Congress’s sole objective was to put Modi and BJP leaders in jail. He condemned the statement, calling it unethical and undemocratic. This comment was in direct response to Kharge’s earlier remark, where he had claimed that if Congress had won 20 more seats, BJP leaders would have been imprisoned. PM Modi also took aim at the regional parties that have traditionally dominated politics in Jammu & Kashmir, such as the National Conference and the PDP. He accused the three families (Gandhi, Abdullah, and Mufti) of having wronged the people of Jammu & Kashmir. “They shattered the spirit of both the Constitution of Jammu & Kashmir and the Constitution of India, which was drafted by Baba Saheb. For years, two constitutions were being enforced here, an attempt to hide their misdeeds,” said Modi.

The Prime Minister also assured the public that only a BJP government would restore full statehood to Jammu & Kashmir. He urged the people to be wary of leaders who had long deprived them of their rights. Modi emphasized that this election would determine the future of Jammu & Kashmir, and urged the public to make a wise decision. Modi took sharp digs at Congress, recalling how bad things were during their rule, with the government’s Home Minister even fearing to visit Lal Chowk. “You all remember the time when an unofficial curfew would be imposed as soon as the sun set,” Modi remarked. He stated that the current situation had completely changed, crediting BJP’s governance and firm policies.

A few days earlier, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, while addressing a public rally in Jammu & Kashmir, had stated that if Congress had won 20 more seats, all major BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would have been jailed. He said, “BJP used to boast about winning over 400 seats, but this time, they were reduced to just 240. If we had 20 more seats, BJP leaders would have been in jail, which is where they belong.” Reacting to Kharge’s statement, PM Modi questioned, “Is this Congress’s main agenda? Are they just in politics to put us and BJP leaders in jail?” Modi criticized this as being against the spirit of democracy and urged people to think carefully before allowing parties like Congress to return to power.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a deep and historic connection with India’s freedom struggle. Renaming this island is not just an administrative decision but a tribute to the heroes of our independence movement. It is the same place where, on December 30, 1943, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose first hoisted the Indian tricolor, calling it the first symbolic act of ‘Independent India’ under the Azad Hind Government. Moreover, Andaman’s infamous Cellular Jail, also known as ‘Kala Pani’, bears witness to many Indian freedom fighters who fought fearlessly against British rule during their imprisonment here. Veer Savarkar and many other freedom fighters were incarcerated in this jail, sacrificing their lives for India’s independence.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also emphasized the cultural and historical importance of Andaman and Nicobar. He mentioned that this island had played a crucial role as a naval base since the time of the Chola Empire. Even today, this region holds immense strategic importance for India’s national security. The island is pivotal for maritime security and trade routes. In his post, Shah further stated that this renaming is an important effort to revive India’s cultural heritage and glorious history. The name ‘Shri Vijaypuram’ not only reflects the rich historical background of the island but also underscores its growing role in India’s future security and development.

Renaming Port Blair to ‘Shri Vijaypuram’ is not just a symbolic step. It is a tribute to all the freedom fighters and heroes who fought for the country’s independence on this island. This move is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to ‘free India from a colonial mindset’ and revive India’s cultural identity. .

On September 11, 2024, PM Modi inaugurated the “Semicon India 2024” conference in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, at the India Expo Mart. This event, which runs until September 13, has brought together global experts and industry leaders in semiconductor manufacturing, electronics, and related fields. Alongside Semicon India 2024, the “Electronica India 2024” and “Productronica India 2024” events are also being held, with a focus on various aspects of the electronics supply chain. The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, underscoring the state’s pivotal role in India’s semiconductor ambitions.

The state of Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is positioning itself as a key player in India’s semiconductor strategy. The government is working diligently to transform Greater Noida into a manufacturing hub for semiconductors, aligning with the national agenda set by PM Modi. The Semicon India 2024 event marks an important milestone in this journey, signaling Uttar Pradesh’s growing importance in the global semiconductor landscape.

The vision for semiconductor manufacturing in Uttar Pradesh is part of a larger national strategy. The state’s push comes at a time when India is determined to decrease its reliance on foreign countries for semiconductor supply and to build a self-reliant ecosystem. Uttar Pradesh, with its strategic location, infrastructure, and growing tech industry, is seen as a critical element of this effort. During his address at the Semicon India 2024 event, PM Modi called on both domestic and international investors to support India’s semiconductor manufacturing industry. He emphasized that for India to become a key player in the global supply chain, it must be competitive. “The world is moving towards an increasingly digital future, and semiconductors are the foundation of everything from smartphones to electric vehicles to AI. India has the potential to be at the forefront of this transformation,” said PM Modi.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. The disruption to global supply chains, particularly for semiconductors, underscored the need for countries to develop their own manufacturing capabilities. Many nations that relied heavily on China for semiconductors experienced significant delays in production and supply. PM Modi argued that India must act now to ensure that it can weather any future disruptions in the global supply chain. The COVID-19 pandemic brought global supply chain issues to the forefront, particularly in the semiconductor industry. As countries around the world went into lockdown, manufacturing and shipping operations were severely impacted. China, one of the largest producers of semiconductors, experienced significant delays in production due to its strict lockdown measures. This, in turn, affected countries that were dependent on Chinese semiconductor imports.

PM Modi pointed to this disruption as a key motivator for India to develop its own semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. “The pandemic showed us the importance of resilient supply chains. Countries that relied heavily on imports from a single source were hit hard. India must ensure that it is self-sufficient in semiconductor production to avoid such disruptions in the future,” he said.

India’s competitive edge lies in its large and growing market, as well as its ability to innovate in technology. PM Modi highlighted the government’s efforts to create stable policies that encourage investment in the semiconductor sector. He also noted that India is already a major market for electronics, and its growing economy presents a significant opportunity for companies that invest in semiconductor manufacturing.

“We are not just focusing on manufacturing. We are also working to create a strong foundation for innovation and research in semiconductors. India will not only be a manufacturing hub but also a global center for cutting-edge semiconductor research and development,” PM Modi said.