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 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. .

Around 11 PM on Monday, in the jungles of the Desa area of Doda, an encounter between the army and terrorists resulted in the sacrifice of an officer and four soldiers. This was the fourth encounter in the Doda region in the past 35 days. On Monday, suspicious activities were also observed in the Jammu and Kathua districts. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti also reacted to the incident. She said that despite the loss of five soldiers, no one is being held accountable. She remarked, “By now, heads should have rolled. The DGP should have been dismissed.” Mehbooba Mufti accused the current DGP of being busy with political maneuvers and harassing people and journalists.

The soldiers who were martyred in the encounter have been identified as Captain Brijesh Thapa, Naik D Rajesh, and soldiers Bijendra and Ajay. The Indian Army expressed condolences to the families of their fallen comrades and stated that the army stands with the bereaved families in this time of grief. This incident is part of the increasing trend of terrorist attacks targeting the Jammu division, following the Kashmir Valley. In the past 32 months, around 50 soldiers have lost their lives, yet no concrete steps have been taken. Meanwhile, security forces continue their campaign against terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, but the political climate remains heated.

The operation, which took place late on Tuesday, resulted in the arrest of five foreigners. The boat and its crew were brought to Porbandar port and handed over to local police for further investigation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the mission as a “historic success” and a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to making the nation drug-free.

The operation was carried out along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea. The Navy deployed its P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, a warship, and helicopters to apprehend the suspicious dhow carrying almost 3,300 kg of contraband. The seized narcotics included 3,089 kg of Charas, 158 kg of Methamphetamine, and 25 kg of Morphine.

The Navy’s social media handle highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Navy’s mission-deployed assets and the NCB, which led to this significant seizure of drugs.

This operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating the global drug trade. The Arabian Sea is a major transit route for drug trafficking, and such operations are crucial in disrupting the flow of narcotics.

The successful seizure of such a large quantity of drugs is a significant blow to drug traffickers and a victory for law enforcement agencies. It sends a strong message that India is committed to tackling the menace of drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of its maritime borders.

The involvement of multiple agencies, including the Navy, NCB, and ATS, demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in combating transnational crimes. The arrested individuals will face legal proceedings, and further investigations will be conducted to uncover the network behind this massive drug smuggling operation.

This operation is a reminder of the constant vigilance required to safeguard our maritime borders and prevent illegal activities at sea. It also highlights the critical role of the Indian Navy in maintaining maritime security and protecting the nation’s interests.

The seizure of 3,300 kg of narcotics from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea is a significant achievement for India’s law enforcement agencies. The collaborative efforts of the Navy, NCB, and ATS have played a crucial role in this operation, and their continued vigilance will be essential in preventing such illegal activities in the future.

BY – KASHISH JAIN

The announcement, made by the government on Saturday, follows the parliamentary approval and the assent granted by President Droupadi Murmu last December. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while introducing these legislations, highlighted their emphasis on “Indianness, the Indian Constitution, and the well-being of the people.”

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, takes precedence by replacing the Indian Penal Code of 1860. Key highlights include the removal of sedition as a crime, introducing a new section titled “offences against the state,” and prescribing death penalty for gang rape of minors and mob lynching. Notably, community services have been incorporated as a form of punishment for the first time.

In place of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, is set to usher in reforms ensuring time-bound investigation, trial, and judgment within 30 days of completing arguments. This law also mandates video recording of the statements of sexual assault victims and introduces a provision for the attachment of property and proceeds of crime.

The Bharatiya Sakshya, 2023, replaces the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 and marks a significant shift toward digitization. Electronic or digital records, including emails, server logs, computers, smartphones, and locational evidence, will now be admissible in courts with the same legal effect, validity, and enforceability as paper records. This law also emphasizes the digitization of all records, including case diaries, FIRs, chargesheets, and judgments.

The comprehensive reforms are expected to position India’s criminal justice system as the most advanced globally within five years of implementing these transformative laws. The meticulous drafting, wide consultations, and the removal of archaic provisions demonstrate the government’s commitment to modernizing and streamlining the legal framework, fostering a system that aligns with contemporary societal needs.

Commending the bravery of the SSB in countering Naxalism, Shah acknowledged the pivotal role played by the force alongside the CRPF and the BSF in curbing the Naxal movement. He specifically highlighted their operations in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. “In the next three years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the country will completely get rid of the problem of Naxalism,” Shah stated.

Discussing the SSB’s contribution to counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah praised their sacrifice while working alongside the CRPF, BSF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Indian Army. The Union Home Minister also announced the release of a postal stamp by the government to commemorate the 60th Raising Day of SSB, emphasizing its significance in preserving the force’s dedication to duty for posterity.

Shah underscored the central government’s commitment to the welfare of all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). He credited Prime Minister Modi for implementing various measures over the past nine years to enhance the well-being of CAPFs, including SSB. Reflecting on the history of the SSB, Shah highlighted its establishment in 1963 after the India-China war.

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He noted that, since 2001, the SSB has diligently protected the India-Nepal border and, since 2004, the India-Bhutan border, following the implementation of the One Border One Force policy by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Amit Shah, along with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, attended the 60th Raising Day of Sashatra Seema Bal at the SSB Complex in Tezpur. He even presented awards for exceptional service to six SSB personnel. Trophies were also conferred upon three battalions, while a commemorative postage stamp was released on the occasion.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the event alongside Shah. Scheduled to participate in further engagements, Shah is set to attend the 13th Triennial Conference of the All Bathou Mahasabha in Dhekiajuli. Additionally, he will launch the book titled “Assam’s Braveheart – Lachit Barphukan” and inaugurate the refurbished Brahmaputra riverfront in Guwahati, as per officials.

BY Yashasvi Raghav

This pivotal gathering offers a platform for discussions on a multitude of pressing issues affecting the northern zone of India. One of the prominent topics on the agenda is Punjab’s pursuit of its claim over Chandigarh as the capital. Additionally, water-sharing disputes with neighboring states and the affiliation of colleges to Panjab University will be addressed. Himachal Pradesh’s decision to levy water cess on hydro-power projects is also up for discussion.

The NZC will delve into matters concerning the Bhakra-Beas Management Board, reorganization of states, infrastructure development, regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme, and various other issues of common interest in the region.

The meeting began with a warm welcome from the host, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, who received Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport. Other notable attendees include Punjab Governor Banwari Lal Purohit, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Sexena, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha, and Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Brig BD Mishra.

Security measures have been tightened in Amritsar ahead of this high-profile event. A group of farmers associated with the Kirti Kisan Union had planned to protest the arrival of the Union Home Minister. They were, however, detained by the police near the airport. Carrying black flags and wearing black turbans, the farmers aimed to express their discontent with the Centre’s policies, particularly those impacting the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, in the lead-up to the NZC meeting, Sukhbir Singh Badal, President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), took to social media to call upon CM Bhagwant Mann to vigorously advocate for Punjab’s interests. He urged the CM to assert Punjab’s claim over Chandigarh, emphasizing that no land should be allocated for the construction of a separate Haryana Vidhan Sabha. Sukhbir Singh Badal also called for a firm stance on the SYL canal issue and the Riparian Principle, highlighting the critical water scarcity in Punjab. He further demanded that no Haryana colleges be affiliated with Panjab University and suggested a revision of guidelines for appointments to the Bhakra-Beas Management Board.

As the Northern Zonal Council meeting unfolds, it holds the promise of addressing these vital concerns and fostering regional cooperation among the northern states and Union Territories.