Category: national

The Government’s Initiative to Widen the Scope of Ayushman Bharat

According to reports, the central government has begun work on expanding the scope of the government scheme Ayushman Bharat, which provides free treatment to the poor. As per the latest updates, all elderly citizens aged 70 and above will be eligible for the benefits of this scheme, regardless of their income.

Government Sets in Motion the Expansion Plans

A report from Live Mint, citing two government sources, has revealed that the government has initiated work to expand the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. Preparation is underway to include all citizens aged 70 and above within the ambit of this scheme. Regardless of their income, senior citizens above 70 years of age will be entitled to the benefits of this initiative.

Allocation in the Interim Budget

According to the report, following the announcement of election results in June, the government may officially declare an increase in the scope of the Ayushman Bharat scheme when it presents the full budget. Earlier this year, an interim budget was presented due to the Lok Sabha elections. In this interim budget, an allocation of Rs. 7,500 crore was made for the Ayushman Bharat scheme. This marked a 10% increase compared to the previous fiscal year.

BJP’s Electoral Promise

If the claims made in Mint’s report are accurate, the government’s preparation becomes crucial as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has included this expansion in its electoral promises. Recently, BJP released its manifesto, called ‘Sankalp Patra’, for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while releasing the manifesto, pledged to extend the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat scheme to all senior citizens aged 75 and above.

PM Modi’s Announcement

Prime Minister Modi, while announcing the decision to expand the scope of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, emphasized on providing better healthcare to the people. He stated, “Elderly citizens are most concerned about how they will manage the expenses of their illnesses. This concern is even more serious for middle-class people. Our party has now resolved to extend the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat scheme to all citizens aged 75 and above.”

Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Scheme

The government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership introduced the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana during its first term. This scheme was launched in September 2018, a few months before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The Ayushman Bharat scheme aimed to provide easy access to healthcare for the economically disadvantaged population. Currently, individuals with an annual income of less than Rs. 2.4 lakh are entitled to a medical insurance cover of up to Rs. 5 lakh annually under this scheme.

Patna Crime News: पटना के पुनपुन में जदयू नेता सौरभ कुमार की गोली मारकर हत्या कर दी गई है। सूत्रों के मुताबिक सौरभ कुमार बढ़ईया कोल के एक शादी समारोह में शामिल होने गए थे। सौरभ कुमार की हत्या के बाद लोगों में अक्रोश है। समर्थक जमकर विरोध प्रदर्शन कर रहे हैं।

बताया जा रहा है बाइक पर सवार चार हमलावरों ने देर रात सौरभ कुमार पर उस समय गोलियां चला दी। आरोपियों का अभी कुछ पता नहीं चल पाया है। जब उनपर गोलियां चलीं तो वह अपने दोस्तों और परिवार के साथ एक शादी समारोह से लौट रहे थे।

मीडिया के मुताबिक़ हमले में एक अन्य व्यक्ति घायल हुआ है। सौरभ पर हुआ अज्ञात आत्मघाती हमले ने बिहार सरकार को सवालों के घेरे में उतार दिया है। लोगों का कहना है वह लोग गुंडागर्दी खत्म करने का दावा करते हैं लेकिन उनके सत्ता में रहते जब एक बड़ा राजनेता सुरक्षित नहीं है। उसकी गोली मारकर हत्या कर दी जाती है। तो यह लोग जनता की सुरक्षा की क्या गारंटी लेंगे।

Sam Pitroda’s Views on Inheritance Tax

Sam Pitroda, a name often associated with controversial statements impacting the Congress Party, has once again stirred the pot, this time advocating for ‘inheritance tax.’ Pitroda’s views on inheritance tax have sparked significant political debate. The BJP has launched an attack on the Congress, claiming that introducing this tax system would be detrimental to businesses.

Explaining Inheritance Tax

Sam Pitroda explains inheritance tax by drawing comparisons with the United States. In the US, if someone possesses assets worth $100 million and they pass away, 45% of the assets go to their children, while 55% goes to the government for public welfare. However, Pitroda points out that such a law doesn’t exist in India. Here, upon someone’s demise, their entire wealth is inherited by their children. Let’s delve deeper into who Sam Pitroda is and his connection with the United States.

Who is Sam Pitroda?

Born in 1942 in Titilagarh, Odisha, Sam Pitroda’s full name is Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda. Coming from a Congress family in Gujarat, he was sent to a boarding school in Gujarat for his education. After completing his schooling, he pursued a degree in Physics and Electronics from Maharaja Sayajirao University in Vadodara. In the 1960s, he was sent to the United States for further studies, where he pursued his Master’s degree.

Pitroda’s Stint in the United States

In 1964, Sam Pitroda obtained his Master’s in Physics from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. Pitroda is considered close to the Gandhi family. Currently, he is the chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress. According to information available on Pitroda’s website, he resides in Chicago with his wife. The Congress leader has always remained in the limelight due to his statements.

Relinquishing American Citizenship Upon Return to India

After completing his studies in the US, Pitroda ventured into the telecom industry in 1965. In 1975, he invented the electronic diary as his first patent. Coming from a Gandhian ideology-accepting family, Pitroda had close ties with the Congress. During his stay in America, he also acquired US citizenship. However, in 1984, upon the insistence of the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, he returned to India.

Second Stint in America in 1990

After Indira Gandhi’s assassination and several years of work in India, Sam Pitroda returned to the US once again in 1990. He resumed his work from Chicago and launched several companies. In 1995, Sam Pitroda was appointed as the Chairman of the International Telecommunications Union’s WorldTel Initiative. However, almost two decades later, he returned to India.

Role in the UPA Government under Manmohan Singh

In 2004, following the victory in the elections, the UPA government led by the Congress was formed. Manmohan Singh was appointed as the Prime Minister. Immediately, Prime Minister Singh invited Sam Pitroda to return to India once again. This marked his return to the country. On coming back to India, Manmohan Singh appointed him as the Chairman of the National Knowledge Commission, a position he held from 2005 to 2009.

Return to America in 2009

However, after the UPA government returned to power in 2009, Sam Pitroda was once again called back to India. This time, he was appointed as an advisor to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and he was also conferred the rank of a Cabinet Minister. According to Pitroda’s website, he holds approximately 20 honorary PhDs and nearly 100 global patents. He has authored five books and published several papers.

Heatwave Alert: Summer heat is not just a simple discomfort; it can be a serious health risk, particularly in regions experiencing heatwaves. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for several states in India, including West Bengal, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh (UP), Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Meanwhile, relief is expected in the form of rain showers in Punjab, Rajasthan, and parts of North-East India.

Heatwave Alert in West Bengal

West Bengal is bracing itself for scorching temperatures as the mercury rises. The IMD has issued a heatwave alert, advising residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe. The state government has urged people to stay indoors during peak hours, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Karnataka Prepares for High Temperatures

Karnataka, too, is facing the heatwave conditions, with temperatures soaring above normal levels. The IMD has issued a warning for the state, emphasizing the need for staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun. Authorities have advised citizens to stay indoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and to wear loose, light-colored clothing to mitigate the effects of the heat.

Uttar Pradesh (UP) Braces for Heatwave

In Uttar Pradesh, the heatwave alert has put residents on high alert. With temperatures expected to rise significantly, the state government has issued guidelines to minimize heat-related health risks. People are advised to avoid going out unnecessarily, keep themselves well-hydrated, and seek medical help in case of any heat-related symptoms.

Odisha and Bihar Under Heatwave Alert

Odisha and Bihar are also facing the heatwave conditions, prompting authorities to issue advisories to the public. Residents are urged to stay indoors, use fans or air conditioners to stay cool, and avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.

Jharkhand: Heatwave Warning

Jharkhand has been placed under a heatwave warning by the IMD, indicating dangerously high temperatures. Citizens are urged to take precautions, such as wearing lightweight clothing, staying in shaded areas, and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Rain Brings Relief to Punjab and Rajasthan

While several states grapple with the heatwave, Punjab and Rajasthan are expected to receive relief in the form of rain showers. The IMD forecasts scattered rainfall in these regions, which will help lower temperatures and provide respite from the sweltering heat.

North-East India: Expecting Rainfall

Parts of North-East India are also anticipating rainfall, bringing relief to residents from the scorching heat. The rainfall is expected to cool down the temperatures and replenish water sources, benefiting both agricultural activities and the general populace.

The Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 2, which commenced on Friday (April 26), witnesses polling across 88 constituencies spanning 13 states and union territories, from all 20 seats in Kerala to eight seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Phase 2 Voting Details

Key Highlights

In the scheduled second phase, several VIP candidates are actively participating, including prominent leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, BJP leader and Union Minister Rajiv Chandrasekhar, and HD Kumaraswamy.

Reduction in Constituencies

Originally, 89 constituencies were scheduled for polling in the second phase. However, due to the unfortunate demise of BSP candidate Ashok Bhalavi on the Baitul Lok Sabha seat in Madhya Pradesh, voting has been deferred for another phase. As a result, only 88 constituencies are currently undergoing elections.

VIP Candidates in Phase 2

Let’s take a closer look at the VIP candidates contesting during the Phase 2 elections:

Rahul Gandhi (Congress)

Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader, is contesting for the second time from the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency in Kerala. He remains one of the most prominent faces in the opposition, having served as a Member of Parliament four times.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (BJP)

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, is one of the senior leaders of the BJP. He is contesting from the Jodhpur constituency in Rajasthan and is a significant figure in BJP’s Rajasthan politics.

Om Birla (BJP)

Om Birla, the Lok Sabha Speaker, is once again contesting from the Kota constituency in Rajasthan. He has been a two-time Member of Parliament and is renowned for his role as the Speaker.

Bhupesh Baghel (Congress)

Former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, is contesting from the Rajnandgaon Lok Sabha seat in the state. Besides being a five-time MLA, he has also led the Chhattisgarh Congress.

Shashi Tharoor (Congress)

Shashi Tharoor is contesting once more from the Thiruvananthapuram constituency in Kerala. He has been a three-time Member of Parliament and has served as the Minister of State for External Affairs.

Rajiv Chandrasekhar (BJP)

BJP has fielded Rajiv Chandrasekhar from the Thiruvananthapuram constituency in Kerala. He is known for his role as the Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in the Modi government.

HD Kumaraswamy (JDS)

Former Chief Minister of Karnataka, HD Kumaraswamy, is contesting from the Mandya constituency in the state. He is the President of Janata Dal (Secular) and has a significant political legacy as the son of former PM HD Deve Gowda.

Shobha Karandlaje (BJP)

BJP has nominated Shobha Karandlaje from the Bengaluru North constituency in Karnataka. She has been a two-time Member of Parliament and has held the position of Minister of State for Agriculture in the Modi government.

Tejasvi Surya (BJP)

Tejasvi Surya is contesting from the Bengaluru South constituency in Karnataka. He is the National President of BJP Youth Wing and had won his first election in 2019. Surya has been involved in various controversies.

Kailash Choudhary (BJP)

Kailash Choudhary is contesting from the Barmer-Jaisalmer constituency in Rajasthan. He has served as the Minister of State for Agriculture in the Modi government and is a prominent Jat face for BJP in Rajasthan.

Ravindra Singh Bhati (Independent)

Ravindra Singh Bhati is contesting independently from the Barmer-Jaisalmer Lok Sabha constituency. He is a sitting MLA and decided to contest independently after not getting the ticket from BJP.

Vaibhav Gehlot (Congress)

Vaibhav Gehlot, son of former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, is contesting from the Jalore constituency in Rajasthan. He had faced defeat in the 2019 elections from Jodhpur.

CP Joshi (BJP)

BJP has nominated CP Joshi from the Chittorgarh Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan. He has been a two-time Member of Parliament and comes from an RSS background.

Dushyant Singh (BJP)

Dushyant Singh, son of former CM Vasundhara Raje, is contesting from the Jhalawar-Baran constituency in Rajasthan. He has been a four-time Member of Parliament and hails from the royal family of Dholpur.

Danish Ali (Congress)

Danish Ali is contesting from the Amroha constituency in Uttar Pradesh on the Congress ticket. He had won the previous election on the BSP ticket and recently joined Congress.

Arun Govil (BJP)

Arun Govil, known for his portrayal of Ram in the famous Ramayan serial, is contesting from the Meerut constituency in Uttar Pradesh. He joined BJP in 2021 and is contesting elections for the first time.

Mahesh Sharma (BJP)

Mahesh Sharma is contesting from the Gautam Buddh Nagar constituency in Uttar Pradesh. He has been a Minister in the Modi government and has won two consecutive terms as MP.

Hema Malini (BJP)

Hema Malini, popularly known as the ‘Dream Girl’, is contesting from the Mathura constituency in Uttar Pradesh. She has been a two-time Member of Parliament and also served as a Rajya Sabha MP.

Prakash Ambedkar (VBA)

Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of Babasaheb Ambedkar, is contesting from the Akola constituency in Maharashtra. He is the President of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and has been a two-time MP.

Navneet Rana (BJP)

BJP has nominated Navneet Rana from the Amaravati constituency in Maharashtra. She is the President of BJP in Maharashtra and had won as an independent candidate in 2019.

Tarique Anwar (Congress)

Senior leader Tarique Anwar is contesting from the Katihar constituency in Bihar on the Congress ticket. He has been a five-time MP from Katihar and was a minister in the Manmohan Singh government.

Pappu Yadav (Independent)

Pappu Yadav is contesting as an independent candidate from the Purnia constituency in Bihar. He has been a five-time MLA and two-time MP. His wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, is a Congress MP.

Sukanta Majumdar (BJP)

Sukanta Majumdar is contesting from the Balurghat constituency in West Bengal. He is the President of BJP in West Bengal and had won his first election in 2019.

1. Delhi: Petrol is priced at ₹94.72 per liter and diesel at ₹87.62 per liter.
2. Mumbai: Petrol costs ₹104.21 per liter and diesel costs ₹92.15 per liter.
3. Kolkata: Petrol is priced at ₹103.94 per liter and diesel at ₹90.76 per liter.
4. Chennai: Petrol costs ₹100.75 per liter and diesel costs ₹92.54 per liter.

In Bihar and several other states, both petrol and diesel have become more expensive. In Bihar, petrol now costs ₹107.30 per liter (an increase of 18 paise) and diesel costs ₹94.01 per liter (an increase of 17 paise).

Moreover, the prices have increased in Assam, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and West Bengal as well.

However, in Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, both petrol and diesel have become cheaper.

To check the prices via SMS:

• For Indian Oil customers, send RSP <City Code> to 9224992249.
• For BPCL customers, send RSP to 9223112222.
• For HPCL customers, send HP Price to 9222201122.

As the voting for the second phase of Lok Sabha elections is underway, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is once again in the election arena from Kerala’s Wayanad constituency. This time, he faces a challenge from the BJP, particularly from candidate Surendran and CPI’s Annie Raja. In 2019, Rahul Gandhi won this seat for the first time, securing 706,367 votes, with a margin of more than 400,000 votes.

Triangular Contest in Wayanad

Wayanad is set for a triangular contest this time around. In the 2019 elections, Rahul Gandhi secured significant victories across all seven assembly segments of the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. P.P. Sunil Kumar from CPI was the runner-up.

Congress Strength in the South

Wayanad constituency comprises 7 assembly seats, including Kalpetta, Mananthavadi, Sulthan Bathery, Thiruvambady, Eranad, Nilambur, and Wandoor. Kalpetta and Mananthavadi are reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST), while Wandoor is reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC). According to the 2011 census, of the 817,420 population, Wayanad has 49.48% Hindus, 28.65% Muslims, and 21.34% Christians.

Discovering Wayanad

The name “Wayanad” is derived from the words “Vayal” and “Nadu,” meaning the land of paddy fields. Once famous for paddy, Wayanad has seen a shift towards profitable crops over time. Known as the Varanasi of the South, Wayanad became Kerala’s 12th district in 1980, later gaining the parliamentary seat in 2009.

Wayanad borders Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and is home to the country’s only Lava-Kush temple. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, rubber, banana, tea, coffee, bamboo plantations, black pepper, and cardamom.

Facing Defeat in Amethi in 2019

Rahul Gandhi first contested the Lok Sabha elections from his father Rajiv Gandhi’s traditional seat, Amethi, in 2004. He won this election with a margin of over 100,000 votes. In the general elections of 2009, Rahul Gandhi contested again from Amethi, winning with a significant margin. In the 2009 elections, Congress won 21 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, largely due to Rahul Gandhi’s efforts.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi faced competition from BJP’s Smriti Irani in Amethi. It was during this time that Aam Aadmi Party fielded Kumar Vishwas. However, Rahul Gandhi emerged victorious and became the Member of Parliament from Amethi for the third consecutive time.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, although Smriti Irani once again contested against Rahul Gandhi in Amethi, this time Rahul Gandhi faced defeat. However, he contested from Kerala’s Wayanad constituency and won.