On the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the late political leader for his remarkable contributions to India's progress and transformation. PM Modi highlighted Vajpayee's achievements, including the Golden Quadrilateral project, nuclear tests, and his dedication to strengthening democracy and the Constitution. He also recalled the challenges India faced before Vajpayee took office in 1998, emphasizing the significant impact of his leadership on the country.
On the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the nation came together to celebrate the legacy of one of its most influential leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, paying homage to Vajpayee's unwavering dedication to India's progress and transformation.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. He joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in his early years and became a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Vajpayee served as India's Prime Minister three times, from 1996 to 1998, 1998 to 1999, and 1999 to 2004.
During his tenure as Prime Minister, Vajpayee initiated several landmark policies and projects that significantly impacted India's development. These include:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee is remembered as a statesman and visionary who guided India through some of its most challenging times. His leadership, humility, and ability to bridge political divides left an enduring mark on the nation. He passed away on August 16, 2018, at the age of 93.
1. What were Atal Bihari Vajpayee's major contributions to India? A: Vajpayee initiated the Golden Quadrilateral, the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, and various diplomatic initiatives. He also strengthened democracy and the Constitution.
2. When did Atal Bihari Vajpayee serve as Prime Minister of India? A: He served three terms as Prime Minister: 1996-1998, 1998-1999, and 1999-2004.
3. What was the impact of Vajpayee's nuclear tests? A: The Pokhran-II nuclear tests established India as a nuclear power and significantly increased its global standing.
4. What was Vajpayee's approach to relations with Pakistan? A: Vajpayee pursued a policy of engagement and dialogue with Pakistan, initiating the Vajpayee Bus Diplomacy.
5. How is Atal Bihari Vajpayee remembered today? A: Vajpayee is remembered as a statesman and visionary, known for his leadership, humility, and dedication to India's progress.
In a digitized effort, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis transferred a grant of ₹25 crore to 560 gaushalas across the state under the Desi Cow Conservation Scheme. This first phase of the scheme will benefit over 56,000 indigenous cows for their upkeep. Fadnavis emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cows for rural development and praised the initiative taken by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission. With lower milk productivity, these cow shelters play a vital role in providing necessary care for non-milking and unproductive cows, making the scheme a major relief for them.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP for taking 10 months to select a national president, while Amit Shah countered by pointing out dynastic practices among opposition parties. Reports suggest that the BJP will announce its new national president by the third week of April to replace JP Nadda. Nadda's tenure was extended until June 2024, but the new president will still be chosen after a process involving the party's 12-13 crore members.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi vehemently opposes the Waqf amendment bill during a Lok Sabha discussion, stating that it is an attack on the foundation of Parliament and the Constitution. He also alleges that the government has ulterior motives for pushing the amendment, including diluting the Constitution, defaming minorities, dividing society, and disenfranchising the minority community. He questions the timing of the amendment and accuses the BJP-led government of restricting religious freedoms in India.
US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by hinting at ways to stay in power beyond his second term. While the 22nd Amendment limits presidential terms to two, Trump believes there are "methods" to get around it. This raises concerns about the sanctity of democracy and the potential for abuse of power. The idea of a third term for any president has been largely rejected in American history, making this a crucial issue to watch.
The Indian Express has reported exclusively that the BJP may ask K Annamalai to step down as the party's Tamil Nadu president, in order to avoid having both BJP and AIADMK's state election faces come from the Gounder community. This move is seen as a strategic decision to strengthen the BJP's alliance with AIADMK, as both Annamalai and AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami belong to this community. Despite his successful leadership style, Annamalai has reportedly been assured of a bright future within the party and has pledged complete loyalty.
The Lok Sabha braces itself for a heated session as the Centre brings back the divisive Waqf (Amendment) Bill for consideration and passage. The eight-hour debate, agreed upon by leaders from all major parties, could be extended after taking the sense of the House. The previously introduced bill had faced backlash from the Opposition and was sent to a Joint Committee for further scrutiny, leading to clashes over proposed amendments and dissent notes being allegedly redacted. Some of the biggest points of contention include allowing non-Muslims to hold key positions in the Waqf board, giving power to the District Collector to determine ownership of disputed property, and removing the tribunal's final decision clause.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font held discussions on enhancing bilateral relations between India and Chile, particularly in the economic, commercial, and societal sectors. They also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and announced the start of negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. The Chilean President is on a five-day state visit to India, accompanied by a high-level delegation.
The controversial Godman, Ram Rahim, who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for rape, has been granted a 30-day parole by the Haryana government. His release coincides with the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi, raising questions about the timing of the decision. Ram Rahim's parole last year before the Haryana assembly elections was also met with criticism. With a mass following in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, the parole has sparked a debate on the influence of religious leaders in politics. IBNS, an objective news agency, strives to provide factual and unbiased news without any biases or agendas.
It has been speculated that K Annamalai, the current BJP Tamil Nadu president, may step down from his position as alliance talks between the BJP and AIADMK intensify. The move comes amid concerns over caste equations and the BJP's strategy to consolidate its hold beyond the western region of Tamil Nadu. Sources reveal that Annamalai has expressed complete loyalty to the party and may take on a national role or a different assignment in the state.
In a scathing attack, Tamil Maanila Congress leader and former Union Minister G.K. Vasan criticized the DMK government in Tamil Nadu for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Vasan accused the ruling party of using divisive issues to distract from their failures, corruption, and scams. He demanded a white paper on the alleged Rs 1,000-crore financial fraud involving the state-run corporation responsible for liquor sales. The Enforcement Directorate has conducted raids in connection with suspected financial irregularities, targeting the TASMAC headquarters, distilleries, and liquor contractors.