Month: August 2023

German UPI

German Min Fascinated At First-Hand Experience Of India’s UPI Payment Model

By LokMarg

German Embassy in India on Sunday hailed India’s digital infrastructure, calling it one of the country’s success stories. The high praise for India’s digital payment model came after Germany’s Federal Minister for Digital and Transport, Volker Wissing, used UPI to make a payment in India and was “very fascinated” by the experience. 

In the pictures and video posted by Germany Embassy in India on X, Wissing can be seen using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to make a payment to a vegetable seller. 

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, German Embassy in India stated, “One of India’s success story is digital infrastructure. UPI enables everybody to make transactions in seconds. Millions of Indians use it. Federal Minister for Digital and Transport @Wissing was able to experience the simplicity of UPI payments first hand and is very fascinated!”

On August 19, Wissing attended the G20 Digital Ministers Meeting in Bengaluru. On August 18, Wissing arrived in Bengaluru to participate in G20 Digital Ministers Meeting. 

In a post on X, German Embassy in India stated, “G20 Digital Ministers meeting in Bangalore is about to start. Minister @Wissing&our great host Minister @AshwiniVaishnaw have an insightful discussion on deepening Indo-German cooperation in IT and especially AI through our Digital Dialogue.”

Notably, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is India’s mobile-based fast payment system, which facilitates customers to make round-the-clock payments instantly, using a Virtual Payment Address (VPA) created by the customer. 

So far, Sri Lanka, France, UAE, and Singapore have partnered with India on emerging fintech and payment solutions. Earlier in July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India and France have agreed to use Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment mechanism. 

Addressing the Indian community in Paris during his recent France visit, PM Modi said, “Be it India’s UPI or other digital platforms, they have brought a huge social transformation in the country and I am happy that India and France are also working together in direction. India and France have agreed to use UPI in France. I will leave after the agreement. However, it is your job to move forward. Friends, in the coming days its beginning will be made from Eiffel Tower which means that Indian tourists will now be able to make payments in Rupees, through UPI, at Eiffel Tower.” (ANI)

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Sachin Pilot

Sachin Pilot Drafted Into CWC As Kharge Rejigs Cong Central Leadership

By LokMarg

In a significant development, Congress leader Sachin Pilot, who has been sounding discordant notes against the party and is not known to see eye-to-eye with Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, was drafted into the Congress Working Committee on Sunday.

Ahead of the Rajasthan Assembly polls, scheduled later this year, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge brought key changes to the CWC on Sunday.

Apart from Pilot being drafted into the party’s central leadership, the likes of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Shashi Tharoor, Jairam Ramesh, Naseer Hussain, Alka Lamba, Supriya Srinate, Praniti Shinde, Pawan Khera, Ganesh Godiyal, and Yashomati Thakur also found places in the panel.

The move to bring Pilot into the party’s central leadership could be part of the Congress’s strategy to avoid any war of words with Gehlot ahead of the crucial state elections.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, CM Gehlot said the Congress would return to power by a handsome majority in the upcoming Assembly elections this year.

A meeting of Rajasthan Congress leaders was also held in the presence of the party’s state unit president Govind Singh Dotasara, CM Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, and party’s state in charge, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa in Jaipur.

After the meeting, Gehlot told media persons, “The Congress will return with a huge mandate. The people have made up their minds to bring us back to power in Rajasthan.”

He further said the party’s poll preparations are already underway.

On August 17, the BJP announced the formation of the state’s election manifesto committee and the Rajasthan election management committee.

Lok Sabha MP Arjun Ram Meghwal was named the chairman of the BJP’s state manifesto committee, with Lal Meena, Alka Gurjar, Ravi Rajendra Singh, Subhash Maurya, Prabhu Lal Saini, and Rakhi Rathore as co-conveners.

In 2018, the Congress won 99 seats while the BJP settled at 73 seats in the 200-member house. The Congress led by Ashok Gehlot formed the government with the support of Independents and the BSP. (ANI)

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Russia Luna-25 spacecraft

Russia’s Luna-25 Mission Fails As Spacecraft Smashes On Moon

By LokMarg

Russia’s moon mission failed after its Luna-25 spacecraft spun out of control and smashed into the moon, Reuters reported on Sunday. 

Russia’s state space corporation, Roskosmos, according to the Reuters report, said it had lost contact with the spacecraft shortly after a problem occurred as it was shunted into pre-landing orbit on Saturday. 

“The apparatus moved into an unpredictable orbit and ceased to exist as a result of a collision with the surface of the Moon,” Roskosmos said in a statement, as quoted in the Reuters’ report. 

Now all eyes will be on India, whose Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft is scheduled to make its landing on the Moon’s south pole on Wednesday (August 23). 

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Chandrayaan-3 is set to land on the moon on August 23, 2023 (Wednesday), around 18:04 IST. The spacecraft is now just three-day away from its final destination, the moon’s south pole. 

ISRO is bidding to make a successful soft landing on the moon, which will make India the fourth country in the world to achieve the feat after the United States, Russia and China. 

“Chandrayaan-3 is set to land on the moon on August 23, 2023, around 18:04 Hrs. IST. Thanks for the wishes and positivity! Let’s continue experiencing the journey together,” ISRO said in a post on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. 

Live actions will be available on the ISRO website, its YouTube channel, Facebook, and public broadcaster DD National TV from 17:27 IST on Aug 23, 2023. (ANI)

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Congress Rahul Gandhi

PM’s Claim Of China Not Taking One Inch Of Our Land Not True: Rahul

By LokMarg

In Ladakh to pay tribute to his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s 79th birth anniversary, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday hit out at the Centre, saying that its claim that not an inch of Indian land was taken by China’s People Liberation Army (PLA) troops “is not true”.

The Congress MP claimed the locals, too, contend that Indian territory was intruded upon and taken by the Chinese troops, adding that it was a matter of concern.

Speaking to reporters after laying floral tributes to a framed photograph of the former PM by a gleaming Pangong Tso lake on an overcast Sunday morning, the Congress leader said, “The locals here are concerned about China taking our land. They have said that the Chinese troops took away their grazing land. However, the PM says not an inch of land was taken away. This is not true, you can ask anyone here,” said Rahul.

Gandhi also raised questions over the Union territory status given to Ladakh after the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories following the abrogation of Article 370.

“There were so many complaints from the people of Ladakh, They are not happy with the status that has been given to them, they want more representation and unemployment is also a concern. People are saying that the state should not be run by bureaucracy but by representatives of the people, the Congress MP added.

Rahul recalled a conversation with his father in which Rajiv Gandhi told him that Pangong Tso is the most beautiful place on earth.  

“I remember, when I was small, my father once returned from a visit to Pangong Tso and showed me some pictures of the lake. He told me that this is the most beautiful place on earth. During the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, I was scheduled to come to Ladkah but because of some logistical reasons, the visit had to be shelved. So I thought of a visit later and a longer stay here. I will also be visiting the Nubra Valley and Kargil.”

During his visit, Rahul was accompanied by Vikar Rasool Wani, president of the Jammu & Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee and several other party officials and workers.

Earlier, in a post on the social media platform ‘X’, Rahul Gandhi wrote, “Papa, the dreams you had for India are shown from these priceless memories. Your mark is my way – understanding the struggles and dreams of every Indian, listening to the voice of Mother India.”

Rahul embarked on a bike ride to Pangong Tso in Ladakh on Saturday. (ANI)

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78th Independence Day from the historic Red Fort

Modi Pays Tributes To Rajiv Gandhi On 79th Birth Anniv

By LokMarg

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi marking his 79th birth anniversary. 

”On his birth anniversary, my tributes to former PM Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji,” PM Modi said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. 

Notably, Rajiv Gandhi was India’s youngest prime minister, who held office during 1984-89.

He was assassinated by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a separatist organisation from Sri Lanka, during a public event in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, in May 1991. 

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who is currently in Ladakh also paid floral tribute to his father by a gleaming Pangong Tso lake on an overcast Sunday morning. 

Speaking to reporters after laying floral tributes to a framed photograph of the former PM, Rahul recalled a conversation with his father in which Rajiv Gandhi told him that Pangong Tso is the most beautiful place on earth. 

“I remember, when I was small, my father once returned from a visit to Pangong Tso and showed me some pictures of the lake. He told me that this is the most beautiful place on earth. During the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, I was scheduled to come to Ladkah but because of some logistical reasons, the visit had to be shelved. So I thought of a visit later and a longer stay here. I will also be visiting the Nubra Valley and Kargil,” said Rahul Gandhi. 

During his visit, Rahul was accompanied by Vikar Rasool Wani, president of the Jammu & Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee and several other party officials and workers. 

Earlier, in a post on the social media platform ‘X’, Rahul Gandhi wrote, “Papa, the dreams you had for India are shown from these priceless memories. Your mark is my way – understanding the struggles and dreams of every Indian, listening to the voice of Mother India.” Rahul embarked on a bike ride to Pangong Tso in Ladakh on Saturday. (ANI)

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When Forwards And Backwards Sit Together To Share Food And Ideas

‘Growth Occurs When Forwards And Backwards Sit Together To Share Food, Ideas’

By LokMarg

Prahlad Singh Gudha, Additional Commissioner of Police (retd), is thrilled to see local Rajputs joining hands with backwards and minorities for empowerment of Jhunjhunu. His views:

I have had the privilege of witnessing the strength that lies in people standing shoulder to shoulder, irrespective of their backgrounds. It was this belief in the potential of unity that prompted me to organize a lunch for around 5,000 BAMCEF (Backwards And Minority Community Employees Federation) members, an event that symbolizes the convergence of diverse minds and hearts for a stronger Jhunjhunu.

The decision to bring together the Rajput community and BAMCEF was not a hasty one. It was born out of a deep understanding that the progress of any society is not solely determined by the advancements of a particular group, but rather by the collective growth of all its constituents. Our town, Jhunjhunu, thrives when its people, regardless of their social or cultural backgrounds, work hand in hand to overcome challenges and pave the way for a prosperous future.

The lunch event served as a platform for individuals from different walks of life to interact, share stories, and forge connections that transcend the boundaries that often separate us. It was a heartwarming sight to witness Rajput locals engaging in conversations with BAMCEF members, discussing not just the issues that affect them individually, but also discovering the common ground they share as fellow residents of Jhunjhunu.

Attendees at the Jhunjhunu event

The chief guest for the event, Mr Waman Meshram, added an air of significance to the occasion. His presence exemplified the mission of BAMCEF – to empower and uplift backward and minority communities. His insightful words resonated with the attendees, underscoring the importance of unity in creating a stronger and more inclusive society. Mr Meshram’s speech was a reminder that progress is most meaningful when it is all-encompassing, benefiting every individual regardless of their background.

This collaborative effort between the Rajput community and BAMCEF has far-reaching implications for the future of Jhunjhunu. It paves the way for joint initiatives that can address issues of education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development that affect the entire town. The event was not just a one-time occurrence but a stepping stone towards sustained cooperation that can yield tangible benefits for our town and its people. 

As I reflect on the success of the lunch event, I am reminded of the boundless potential that lies within our community when we rise above differences and embrace the strength of togetherness. The unity displayed on that day was not just about sharing a meal but about sharing a vision – a vision of a stronger, more vibrant Jhunjhunu that thrives on the collective efforts of its diverse population.

In conclusion, the coming together of Rajput locals and BAMCEF members underlines the power of unity and collaboration. It showcases that despite our differences, we are all part of a larger community that shares a common goal – the betterment of Jhunjhunu. The event has set a precedent for cooperative endeavors that hold the potential to transform our town into a model of inclusivity, progress, and harmony. As we move forward, let us carry this spirit of unity with us, working hand in hand to build a brighter future for Jhunjhunu and its residents.

As told to Deepti Sharma

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Sushmita Sen

Sushmita Expresses Gratitude For Overwhelming Response To Taali

By LokMarg

Actor Sushmita Sen on Saturday expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming response of the audience to her recently released web series series ‘Taali’.

Taking to Instagram, Sushmita shared a picture and wrote, “This happiness is a vibe!! And YOU are the reason!!! Thank you all for the love, respect & appreciation you’ll have been showering on #Taali. On behalf of #teamtaali @shreegaurisawant @ravijadhavofficial @gseamsak @afeefanadiadwala @officialjiocinema @kshitijpatwardhan the amazing cast & crew & of course #yourstruly ….Our DEEPEST GRATITUDE!!!. The calls, the messages, the posts, the stories, the flowers, the love notes. All forever cherished!!! Thank you for opening your hearts!!! The world needs it!!! #trulyoverwhelmed I love you guys!!!! #duggadugga.”  https://www.instagram.com/p/CwICnZct_Eu/embed

‘Taali’ is a biopic of transgender activist Gauri Sawant in which Sushmita Sen essays the titular role.

The trailer shed light on the trials and tribulations of Shreegauri Sawant’s life, her daring transformation from Ganesh to Gauri and the discrimination she was subjected to because of that; her fearless journey towards motherhood, and the audacious battle that led to the inclusion and identification of the third gender on every official document in India. Coupled with an inspirational storyline, the series hits the right chords with some thought-provoking dialogues.

Created by Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar, directed by National award-winning director Ravi Jadhav, written by Kshitij Patwardhan, and produced by Arjun Singgh Baran, Kartk D Nishandar (GSEAMS Production) and Afeefa Nadiadwala.

Born as Ganesh and raised in Pune, Shreegauri Sawant is a transgender activist from Mumbai. She was one of the petitioners in the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) case of 2013, in connection with which the Supreme Court recognised persons belonging to the transgender community as the third gender. The landmark verdict was delivered in 2014.

The series is streaming on the OTT platform Jio Cinema. (ANI)

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Haryali Teej

Hariyali Teej: Devotees Celebrate The Festival With Fervour In Dehradun

By LokMarg

Devotees on Saturday celebrated the festival of Hariyali Teej with enthusiasm in Dehradun. At various places including the Rajpur Enclave Society of the city, women dressed in traditional clothes gathered in groups and prayed for a happy married life as well as happiness, peace and prosperity at home.

A local resident Neha Mittal said, “I wish to extend my wishes on the occasion of Teej. On this day we worship Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Married women fast for the long life of their husbands. Women apply henna on their hands and dress up in traditional attires and get together to ride swings”

Devotees dressed in green were seen singing Teej songs while enjoying their sway on swings bedecked with flowers. This festival is celebrated by Hindu women to commemorate the union of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati.

Significantly, Hariyali Teej is celebrated on Shukla Paksha Tritiya of the month of Shravan. The festival of Hariyali Teej holds importance in Hinduism because on this day Lord Shiva accepted Mother Parvati as his wife after her rigorous penance. This festival is also celebrated as the reunion of Shiva and Shakti. On this day married women fast for the long life of their husbands. They wear green clothes along with 16 adornments. Swaying on the swing on Hariyali Teej also has special significance. (ANI)

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UAE Sri Lanka Onion

Govt Imposes 40% Export Duty On Onions To Improve Local Supplies

By LokMarg

The government on Saturday imposed a 40 per cent duty on the export of onions to check price rise and improve supplies in the domestic market till December 31, 2023. 

Earlier today, the Finance Ministry issued a notification stating that they have imposed a 40 per cent export duty on onions till December 31, 2023.

“Government imposes 40 per cent duty on onion exports till December 31,” the Ministry stated. 

The export duty comes amid reports that onion prices are likely to rise in September.

Earlier on August 11, the central government started releasing the staple vegetable from its buffer stock.

The central government had earlier decided it will maintain 3 lakh tonne of onions in the 2023-24 season as buffer stock. In 2022-23, the government maintained 2.51 lakh tonne onion as buffer stock.

Buffer stock is maintained to meet any exigencies and for price stabilisation, if rates go up significantly during the lean supply season.

Rohit Kumar Singh, Secretary Food and Public Distribution Department in a meeting on Thursday with the Managing Directors of the government’s agricultural marketing agencies — National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Limited (NCCF) — finalized the modalities for disposal.

“It was decided to release the onion stocks by targeting key markets in states or regions where retail prices are ruling above the all-India average and also where the rates of increase in prices over the previous month and year are above the threshold level. Disposal through e-auction and retail sales on e-commerce platforms are also being explored,” a food ministry release said Friday.

Rabi onion harvested during April – June accounts for 65 per cent of India’s onion production and meets the consumer’s demand till the Kharif crop is harvested in October-November.

The procured stocks are usually released through targeted open market sales and also to states and Union territories and government agencies for supplies through retail outlets during the lean supply season. (ANI)

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Rajinikanth

Rajinikanth To Visit Ayodhya Tomorrow

By LokMarg

Superstar Rajinikanth, who attended the special screening of ‘Jailer’ in Lucknow, will visit Ayodhya on Sunday.

“Jee kal program hai. (Yes the programme is tomorrow),” he told ANI on Saturday after being asked about his special plans to visit the birthplace of Lord Ram.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Rajinikanth hosted the screening of his latest release ‘Jailer’ in Lucknow. UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya attended the screening.

‘Thalaiva’ Rajinikanth reached Lucknow for the screening on Friday night.

The actor expressed his excitement about the kind of positive response his film is getting from the audience and its success.

“… It’s God’s blessing that the movie is becoming a hit,” he told ANI.

Earlier, Rajinikanth was in Ranchi, Jharkhand.

He also visited the famous Chhinnamasta Temple in the state on Friday and offered prayers. He spent an hour meditating at ‘Yagoda Ashram’ in Ranchi. This was followed by his meeting with Jharkhand Governor C P Radhakrishnan at the Raj Bhavan.

‘Jailer,’ which was released in theatres on August 10, has grabbed the box office by storm. In India, the film’s eight-day total collection stood at Rs 235.65 crore (as of August 17). The film was released in several languages, including Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi.

Rajinikanth plays a man seeking to avenge the death of his cop son in ‘Jailer’. Mohanlal, Shivarajkumar, and Jackie Shroff are in important cameos. (ANI)

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