Category: national

In a strategic move ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the government has announced an increase in the interest rates for small savings schemes, significantly impacting those investing in the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY). This scheme, specifically designed for the future security of daughters, will now offer an increased interest rate, making it an even more attractive investment option.

What is Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana?

The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a government-backed savings scheme that guarantees 100% safety for your investments. Under this scheme, you can invest a minimum of INR 250 up to a maximum of INR 1.5 lakh annually. Exclusively crafted for daughters, SSY allows parents to plan and secure the financial future of their girl child, covering essential future expenses such as education and marriage. The scheme permits investment for 15 years, with the maturity period extending to 21 years, ensuring a substantial corpus is accumulated by the time of maturity.

Eligibility and Application Process

The SSY account can be opened for girls aged up to 10 years by their parents. With an initial investment as low as INR 250, the scheme was initially offering an annual interest rate of 8%. However, for the January-March quarter, this rate has been boosted to 8.2%, including the benefits of compound interest. Notably, only one account per girl child is permitted, with a maximum of two accounts for a family. Exceptions are made for twins, allowing parents to open a third account under certain conditions.

Interest and Maturity Benefits

The investments made in SSY are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, and the returns upon maturity are completely tax-free. A yearly investment of INR 1.5 lakh can potentially grow to approximately INR 67 lakhs at maturity, thanks to the power of compounding interest. The scheme’s maturity period is set at 21 years, with the investment period lasting 15 years. This means that even after the cessation of investments, the account continues to earn interest until maturity. For instance, an account opened for a newborn girl will mature when she reaches 21, and for a girl who is 4 years old at the time of opening the account, it will mature when she turns 25. Post 18 years of age, the girl can manage the account herself.

Daily Investment Strategy

For those aiming to maximize their investment in SSY, an annual deposit of INR 1.5 lakh is recommended. This breaks down to INR 12,500 monthly or approximately INR 417 daily. For a newborn girl, this investment strategy over 15 years can accumulate to INR 22.50 lakhs, which is expected to grow to around INR 65 lakhs by the time of maturity, considering the interest compounding annually.

Japan, known for its unique cultural tapestry, is home to a diverse range of religious beliefs and practices. Among its minority groups, Muslims, who constitute less than 1% of Japan’s 120 million population, face unique challenges due to their religious practices, particularly regarding funeral rites. This article delves into the struggles and adaptations of the Muslim community in a predominantly Buddhist and Shinto society.

The Islamic Community in Japan: A Demographic Overview

The Muslim population in Japan, estimated at around 200,000 individuals, is a vivid mosaic of cultures and traditions. Predominantly from South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian backgrounds, these Muslims have been integrating into Japanese society while trying to maintain their religious identity.

Adhering to Islamic Funeral Rites in a Non-Muslim Majority Country

In Islam, cremation is prohibited, and the deceased must be buried within 24 hours of death. This practice starkly contrasts with the Buddhist and Shinto tradition of cremation, followed by 99% of the Japanese population. The Muslim community’s adherence to burial can pose logistical challenges, often requiring long-distance travel to find a suitable burial ground.

Personal Narratives: The Muslim Experience in Japan

Dr. Tahir Abbas Khan, a Pakistani-born Japanese citizen who arrived in Japan in 2001 for his Ph.D., exemplifies the emotional and practical difficulties faced by Muslims in Japan. “The thought of not being able to perform a dignified funeral for my loved ones haunts my nights,” he shares, highlighting the deep emotional impact of these cultural and religious differences.

The Journey to Establish Muslim Cemeteries

In 2009, the first mosque in Oita Prefecture, on Kyushu Island, was established, marking a significant step for the Muslim community. However, efforts to establish a dedicated Muslim cemetery in the region have met with challenges, reflecting the broader struggle of the community to secure spaces for their religious practices.

Mohammad Iqbal Khan’s story is particularly poignant. After moving from Pakistan to Japan in 2004, he faced a harrowing ordeal when his wife gave birth to a stillborn child. With no Muslim cemetery nearby, they had to transport the body nearly 1,000 kilometers to Yamanashi Cemetery, a facility used by Muslims and Christians alike. This journey underscores the logistical and emotional hardships faced by Muslims in Japan.

The Minority Within a Minority: Christians in Japan

The Christian community in Japan, also constituting about 1% of the population, shares some of these challenges. They, too, utilize facilities like Yamanashi Cemetery, indicating a shared experience among religious minorities in Japan.

The Road Ahead: Integration and Acceptance

The experiences of the Muslim community in Japan highlight the challenges faced by religious minorities in maintaining their traditions within a different cultural context. It also reflects on the broader themes of cultural integration, religious freedom, and the importance of understanding and respecting diverse practices.

As Japan continues to evolve as a multicultural society, the experiences of its Muslim population offer valuable insights into the complexities of cultural and religious coexistence. The journey of Muslims in Japan is not just about maintaining their religious practices but also about fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance within the broader Japanese society.

Rahul Gandhi Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra: लोकसभा चुनाव की तैयारी उफान पर है। सत्ता पक्ष और विपक्ष अपने – अपने मुद्दों के साथ जनता को साधने की कवायद में लग गई है। राजनीति के जानकारों का कहना है कि बीजेपी राम मंदिर के तले 2024 के चुनाव में अपनी जीत का ध्वज लहराने की हर संभव कोशिश करेगी। तो विपक्ष जनता के मुद्दों पर चुनाव लड़ेगा। कांग्रेस लोकसभा चुनाव को ध्यान में रखते हुए जमीनी स्तर पर अपनी मजबूत छवि गढ़ने में जुट गई है। राहुल गांधी ने मणिपुर से मुंबई तक 6,700 किलोमीटर से ज़्यादा की भारत जोड़ो न्याय यात्रा शुरू कर दी है। बताया जा रहा है राहुल गांधी की न्याय यात्रा का लोकसभा चुनाव में खूब प्रभाव दिखेगा। क्योंकि भारत जोड़ो न्याय यात्रा 15 राज्यों के 100 लोकसभा संसदीय क्षेत्र और 337 विधानसभा क्षेत्र से गुज़रेगी।

राहुल की यात्रा से कांग्रेस को कितना लाभ:

कांग्रेस नेता राहुल गांधी ने सितंबर 2022 से लेकर जनवरी 2023 तक कन्याकुमारी से लेकर कश्मीर तक ‘भारत जोड़ो यात्रा’ की थी। यात्रा का प्रभाव चुनावी दौर में देखने को मिला। दक्षिण भारत में कांग्रेस मजबूत हुई। कर्नाटक और तमिलनाडु में कांग्रेस ने सरकार बनाई। वही अब जब एक बार पुनः कांग्रेस नेता राहुल गांधी 15 राज्यों के 100 लोकसभा संसदीय क्षेत्र और 337 विधानसभा क्षेत्र की भारत जोड़ो न्याय यात्रा पर निकलें हैं तो स्पष्ट है कि इसका प्रभाव लोकसभा चुनाव में देखने को मिलेगा। क्योंकि राहुल प्रत्यक्ष रूप से जनता से जुड़कर लोगों को अपनी तरफ आकर्षित कर रहे हैं। लोगों का नजरिया कांग्रेस को लेकर प्रतिवर्तित हो रहा है। कहीं न कहीं राहुल गांधी की छवि एक गंभीर नेता के रूप में विकसित हो रही है। जो लोग अभी तक कांग्रेस पर यह आरोप लगाते थे कि उनके पास अब कोई नहीं है जो कांग्रेस को इंदिरा की तरह जनता की पार्टी बना पाए। राहुल ने इस मिथक को भी तोड़ दिया है।

वही यात्रा का एक उद्देश्य यह भी है कि मीडिया संस्थानों ने सत्ता पक्ष और विपक्ष के संदर्भ में जो सर्वे प्रस्तुत किये हैं उनके हिसाब से देश के सबसे लोकप्रिय नेता पीएम मोदी हैं। जनता की जुबान पर मोदी के अलावा कोई नाम नहीं है। जो वास्तव में विपक्ष के लिए सबसे बड़ी चिंता का विषय है। तीन राज्यों में कांग्रेस की हार ने कांग्रेस का कद नीचे किया है। जिस तरीके से चुनावी सर्वे सामने आए हैं उसके मुताबिक बीजेपी को सत्ता प्राप्त करना बेहद आसान है। क्योंकि विपक्ष के पास कोई गंभीर चुनावी मुद्दा है नहीं, ऊपर से राम मंदिर प्राण प्रतिष्ठा कार्यक्रम में बीजेपी को जनता के बीच पुनः मजबूत करने का ताना-बाना बुन दिया है। अब ऐसे में राहुल की यात्रा कांग्रेस को जनता के बीच स्थापित कर बीजेपी के लिए चुनाव संघर्ष भरा बनाने का है। कांग्रेस नेता राहुल गांधी जानते हैं कि मुख्य धारा की मीडिया का ध्यान राम मंदिर और मोदी पर है। विपक्ष को जनता राम विरोधी के रूप में जान रही है अगर वह प्रत्यक्ष रूप से जनता से नहीं मिले तो कांग्रेस बिना लड़े ही परास्त हो जाएगी। लेकिन यदि उन्होंने अपनी भारत जोड़ो न्याय यात्रा को सफलता पूर्व कर लिया। तो वह 15 राज्यों में स्वयं को मजबूत स्थिति में खड़ा कर लोकसभा चुनाव में बीजेपी को कांटे की टक्कर देंगे।

Babri Masjid vs Ram Mandir: राम मंदिर बन गया है। 22 को भव्य प्राण प्रतिष्ठा कार्यक्रम है। बड़े-बड़े दिग्गजों को प्राण प्रतिष्ठा कार्यक्रम में शामिल होने का निमंत्रण दिया गया है। पूरा देश वर्तमान में भगवा ध्वज के नीचे गर्व महसूस कर रहा है। वही आरएसएस प्रमुख मोहन भागवत ने बाबरी मस्जिद को लेकर बयाना देते हुए कहा- 500 वर्ष का इंतजार खत्म हुआ। बाबरी मस्जिद गुलामी का प्रतीक थी।

बता दें 1992 में कारसेवकों ने बाबरी मस्जिद को ध्वस्त कर दिया था। मोहन भागवत ने कारसेवकों को याद करते हुए कहा- बाबरी मस्जिद गुलामी का प्रतीक थी। कारसेवकों ने उसे ध्वस्त किया। आज वहां भव्य राम मंदिर बनकर खड़ा हो गया है। कारसेवकों ने कभी दंगा नहीं किया। क्योंकि उन्होंने बाबरी मस्जिद के अलाव अयोध्या की किसी मस्जिद को ध्वस्त नहीं किया।

उन्होंने आगे कहा- मंदिर बन गया है। वर्षों का इंतजार समाप्त हुआ। यह ख़ुशी का पल है। हमें अपना संघर्ष अभी जारी रखना होगा। ताकि हम अपनी मंजिल हासिल कर सकें। अभी काफी कुछ करना बाकी है। सपने पूरे करने के लिए अभी संघर्ष करना होगा। समय के साथ कई चीजें परिवर्तित हुईं। कई संस्कृति ध्वस्त हो गईं। लेकिन आज भी हिन्दू संस्कृति बची हुई है। विश्वगुरु बनने के लिए पूरे देश को एकजुट होना होगा।

बताते चलें 22 जनवरी को राम मंदिर का प्राण प्रतिष्ठा किया जा रहा है जिसमें प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी, उत्तर प्रदेश के मुख्यमंत्री योगी आदित्यनाथ, आरएसएस चीफ़ मोहन भागवत सहित कई हस्तियां शामिल हो रही हैं। लेकिन शंकराचार्यों ने इस आयोजन में आने से इंकार कर दिया है, उनका कहना है कि मंदिर का निर्माण पूरा नहीं हुई है ऐसे में इसमें प्राण प्रतिष्ठा करना उचित नहीं है।

In a significant development in Indian politics, Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and a Member of Parliament from Hyderabad, has sparked a crucial debate on the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal. Through a social media platform, on Monday (January 15), Owaisi conveyed his concerns about the proposal, which he believes could be a disaster for Indian democracy and federalism. This bold statement has brought the topic into the limelight, raising pertinent questions about the practicality and implications of simultaneous elections in the world’s largest democracy.

Owaisi’s Letter: A Strong Opposition to ‘One Nation, One Election’

Addressing the high-level committee on the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative, Owaisi, in his letter, stressed his position as a parliamentarian and AIMIM chief. He detailed his substantial objections, based on constitutional law, against the proposal. These objections were not only presented to the committee but were also previously communicated to the Law Commission of India on June 27, 2018, during its consultation phase. Additionally, Owaisi included an article he wrote for the Hindustan Times on March 12, 2021, further elaborating his stance on this critical issue.

The Core of the Discussion: Ignoring the Essentials of Democracy

In his correspondence, Owaisi lamented the necessity to reiterate his objections – both preliminary and fundamental – before the High-Level Committee (HLC). He criticized the approach of various consultations on the matter, pointing out that they have overlooked the primary requirement of creating law in a democracy, which justifies the need for a policy. He noted that neither the parliamentary standing committee, the NITI Aayog, nor the Law Commission has adequately justified the need for such a significant shift. Instead, discussions have been more focused on how the proposal could be implemented, rather than if it should be.

‘A Solution in Search of a Problem’: Questioning the Proposal’s Rationale

Owaisi’s critique extends to the terms of reference of the HLC itself, arguing that it too is flawed. He observed that the focus has been on creating a legal and administrative framework for conducting simultaneous elections, without adequately considering whether such a fundamental change is constitutionally acceptable within India’s democratic framework. He describes the initiative as a solution in search of a problem, implying that the proposal may be addressing a non-existent issue.

Elections: More Than a Formality in Democratic India

Highlighting the sanctity of elections in a democratic setup, Owaisi emphasized that elections are not mere formalities and voters are not rubber stamps. He argued that the electoral democracy is the pillar upon which the constitutional edifice of India stands. He warned against subjecting elections to administrative convenience or economic feasibility, suggesting that doing so could lead to absurd consequences. He raised rhetorical questions about the potential implications of prioritizing financial or administrative considerations over constitutional necessities, questioning the logic of such an approach.

In the whirlwind of modern life, the essence of true happiness often hinges on the connections we nurture. It’s a universal truth that relationships, in all their varied forms, play a pivotal role in our lives. Recognized wisdom suggests that happiness is intertwined with the quality of our relationships. However, maintaining these relationships demands our attention and care, primarily through the investment of time. In today’s fast-paced world, the scarcity of time has become a predominant challenge affecting our relationships.

Navigating the Busy Tapestry of Life

Our current lifestyle, characterized by relentless busyness, has led many to inadvertently neglect their relationships. This neglect is becoming a significant factor in the increasing emotional distance within relationships, leading to consequential and often severe outcomes. If you’re sensing a growing gap in your relationships, understanding and implementing strategies to bridge this distance is crucial.

The Cornerstone of Relationship Building: Time

The adage that ‘time is of the essence’ holds particularly true in the context of relationships. Devoting time to nurture relationships is fundamental. This may involve balancing work commitments with quality time for relationships, or even taking short breaks from work to focus on loved ones. Whether it’s a staycation at home or a getaway, such dedicated time can significantly enhance relational bonds.

Emotional Attunement: Understanding and Empathy

A primary reason for the widening gap in relationships is often a lack of understanding and empathy towards each other’s feelings. Cultivating an environment where emotions are acknowledged and respected can lead to increased affection and, gradually, a reduction in emotional distance.

Making Each Other Feel Special

Regardless of the reasons for distance in a relationship, one of the most effective ways to diminish it is by making each other feel valued and special. This could be through thoughtful gestures, like giving gifts that resonate with your partner’s preferences, thereby reigniting the spark of love and care in your relationship.

Strengthening the Bond: Trust and Open Communication

If the bond in a relationship is strong, creating distance becomes considerably more challenging. Therefore, if you fear the possibility of growing apart, a viable solution is to strengthen the trust in your relationship. Engaging in open and honest communication, sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings, and being receptive to your partner’s perspective can solidify trust over time.

The Importance of Personal Space in Relationships

Personal space is an integral aspect of healthy relationships and must be respected. When efforts to encroach on another’s personal space become prevalent, it can initiate a gradual increase in relational distance. Recognizing and honoring the need for personal space, even with life partners, is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance.

In recent days, North India has experienced an intense spell of winter weather, marked by dense fog and record low temperatures. This article delves into the specifics of these weather conditions, the impacts on daily life and transportation, and the measures taken by authorities to manage the situation.

The Onset of Dense Fog and its Implications

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted a period of very dense fog across North India, which has been realized over the past few days. The visibility dropped significantly, affecting daily activities and posing challenges, particularly during the early morning hours. Dense fog is not just a meteorological phenomenon but also a major disruptor of daily life, impacting commuting, air travel, and overall public safety.

Air Quality Concerns in the Capital

Delhi, the nation’s capital, has witnessed a continuous decline in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently falling into the ‘very poor’ category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 382 in Delhi, which is alarming. This poor air quality poses significant health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory issues and the elderly.

Cold Wave Sweeps Across the Region

The weather department also indicated the likelihood of a ‘cold day’ in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Rajasthan. This prediction came to fruition with some regions experiencing their lowest temperatures of the season. For instance, the temperature in Ludhiana plummeted to a mere 1 degree Celsius, creating challenging living conditions for residents.

Impact on Air Travel and Predictions for the Coming Days

Flight operations have been severely affected due to low visibility and dense fog. Delhi Airport, in particular, witnessed significant disruptions with several flights being diverted or rescheduled. This situation underscores the broader impact of severe weather conditions on transportation and logistics.

IMD’s Forecast and Preparedness

The IMD had forecasted extremely dense fog, particularly in the Delhi-NCR region. In response, authorities issued alerts and advisories to the public, urging caution, particularly for travelers and commuters. Preparations were made to manage the potential disruptions caused by the fog and cold wave.

Temperature Variations Across Different Regions

The last 24 hours have seen varying temperature ranges across different parts of North India. Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Western Uttar Pradesh, Northern Rajasthan, and Bihar recorded minimum temperatures between 3 – 7°C. In contrast, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand experienced slightly higher temperatures ranging from 8-10°C.

The Final Call for UP Police Constable Recruitment 2023

The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment Board has issued a final reminder for aspirants who have not yet applied for the prestigious position of Constable in the UP Police Force. This is your last chance to be part of a team that ensures law and order in one of India’s largest states. The recruitment process is underway to fill a substantial number of 60,244 constable positions. Applicants are urged to act quickly as the deadline is looming – January 16, 2024. As of now, there has been no announcement extending the application date, nor has there been any official statement on a potential extension. Therefore, it is crucial for interested candidates to complete their applications by the stated deadline.

Eligibility Criteria for Aspiring UP Police Constables

Candidates must fulfill specific educational requirements to be eligible for these positions. It is mandatory to have passed the 10th and 12th standard from a recognized board in India or possess an equivalent qualification as sanctioned by the government. In addition to these basic qualifications, preference will be given to candidates who have either obtained an ‘O’ level certificate in computer from DOEACC/NIELIT Society; served in the Territorial Army for a minimum of two years; or have secured the ‘B’ certificate in the National Cadet Corps (NCC).

Exam Pattern and Selection Process

The selection process includes a written examination which carries a total of 300 marks. The test comprises 150 questions encompassing areas such as General Knowledge, General Hindi, Numerical & Mental Ability, Mental Aptitude, Intelligence Quotient, and Logical Ability. Each correct answer will earn candidates 2 marks, but be cautious as there is a negative marking system where 0.5 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.

Physical Standards for Applicants

Physical requirements vary based on gender and category. Male candidates from General/OBC and SC categories must have a height of at least 168 cm, while ST candidates are given a relaxation with a minimum height of 160 cm. Female candidates from General/OBC/SC categories need to have a minimum height of 152 cm, and for ST candidates, the requirement is 147 cm.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for UP Police Constable Recruitment 2023

1. Visit the Official Website: Begin your application process by navigating to the official website: uppbpb.gov.in.
2. Locate the Recruitment Link: On the homepage, search for the link labeled “UP Police Constable Recruitment 2023” and click on it.
3. Read Instructions Carefully: Before proceeding with your application, thoroughly read and understand the provided instructions and guidelines.

4. Register and Log In: If you are a new user, complete your registration on the portal. After registering, log in and access the application form for the constable recruitment.

Sudhanshu Trivedi on Rahul Gandhi: उत्तरप्रदेश के जिला अयोध्या में 22 जनवरी को राम लला की प्राण प्रतिष्ठा का भव्य कार्यक्रम आयोजित किया गया है. कार्यक्रम का शामिल होने के लिए देश विदेश से मेहमान आ रहे हैं. देश के 8000 लोगों को सम्मान पूर्वक आमंत्रित किया गया है.बच्चा – बच्चा जय श्री राम के नारे लगा रहा है. घर-घर में राम गुणगान गाया जा रहा है.वही बीजेपी और कांग्रेस के मध्य राम मन्दिर को लेकर विवाद छिड गया है. कांग्रेस ने राम मन्दिर प्राण प्रतिष्ठा कार्यक्रम में जाने से इनकार कर दिया है. कांग्रेस का दावा है राम लला की प्राण प्रतिष्ठा का कार्यक्रम बीजेपी और आरएसएस का कार्यक्रम है. हालाकि बीजेपी का दावा है कि यह सतयुग का कार्यक्रम है हमारे प्रभु श्री राम की अयोध्या में वापसी हो रही है. वही कांग्रेस के रवैया को लेकर BJP सांसद सुधांशु त्रिवेदी ने जी न्यूज के एक कार्यक्रम में कहा- वह यानी कांग्रेस भगवान राम में भी राजनीति कर रही है. इसपर क्या ही कहा जा सकता है- वो कहते हैं न जा की रही भावना जैसी प्रभु मूरत सो देखी तैसी.

जानें क्या बोले सुधांशु त्रिवेदी:

जी न्यूज़ से संवाद करते हुए सुधांशु त्रिवेदी ने कहा-  नेहरू ने 1949 में अयोध्या के जिला अधिकारी को पत्र लिखकर विवादित ढांचे से मूर्तियां हटाने को कहा था. अभी जो कांग्रेस हमारे हमारे सामने है वह नेहरु की कांग्रेस है. यह लोग सरनेम तो गांधी का लगाते हैं लेकिन यह लोग नीति नेहरु की अपनाते हैं.गांधी तो स्वयं राम मन्दिर का उद्घोष चाहते थे. गांधी स्वयं राम के पक्ष में हैं.

वही जब एंकर ने उनसे पूछा क्या राम की वजह से सत्ता में आए हैं. तो सुधांशु कहते हैं राम सभी के हैं राम सबका भला करते हैं, राम का जो गुणगान करेगा उसको उसका लक्ष्य मिलेगा. आप सच्चे मन से राम का ध्यान कीजिये आपको आपकी मंजिल आसानी से मिल जाएगी. अगर कांग्रेस भी सच्चे मन से राम की शरण में आती है तो कांग्रेस के लिए भी उसका लक्ष्य हासिल करना कोई बड़ी बात नही है.

राहुल की समझ पर सुधांशु की प्रतिक्रिया:

सुधांशु त्रिवेदी कहते हैं- हम या हमारी पार्टी उनकी समझ पर सवाल नही उठाती .बल्कि उनकी पार्टी के नेता उनकी कुटिल नीति पर सवाल उठाते हैं और पार्टी छोड़ देते हैं. लोकसभा चुनाव में मिली करारी हार के बाद आप अपने अध्यक्ष पद से इस्तीफ़ा दे देते हैं और फिर आप पीछे से पार्टी का नेतृत्व करते हैं.