India, US Urge Pak To Prevent Cross-Border Terror

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India and the United States have stood firmly together in the fight against terrorism and agree that concerted action is necessary to tackle cross-border terrorism.

In his statement in the joint press conference with US President Donald Trump, PM Modi lauded the decision of United States to hand over 2008 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana and said the Indian courts will now take appropriate action.

India has been facing the scourge of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

“India and the United States have stood firmly together in the fight against terrorism. We agree that concerted action is necessary to eradicate cross-border terrorism,” PM Modi said.

“I am thankful to the President that he has decided to hand over the culprit who committed the killings in India in 2008, to India now. Indian courts will now take appropriate action,” he added.

The joint statement issued after the bilateral talks said that PM Modi and President Trump called on on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai, and Pathankot attacks and ensure that its territory is not used to carry out cross-border terrorist attacks.

The joint statement mentioned the need for cooperation against Pakistan-based terror groups – Jaish-e Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba.

The two leaders reaffirmed that the global scourge of terrorism must be fought and terrorist safe havens eliminated from every corner of the world.

“They committed to strengthen cooperation against terrorist threats from groups, including Al-Qa’ida, ISIS, Jaish-e Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba in order to prevent heinous acts like the attacks in Mumbai on 26/11 and the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan on August 26, 2021,” the statement said.

“Recognizing a shared desire to bring to justice those who would harm our citizens, the US announced that the extradition to India of Tahawwur Rana has been approved,” it added.

PM Modi and President Trump also pledged to work together to prevent proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems and to deny access to such weapons by terrorists and non-state actors,” it said.

As part of commitment towards energy security, the two leaders announced their commitment to fully realize the US-India 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement by moving forward with plans to work together to build US-designed nuclear reactors in India through large scale localization and possible technology transfer.

“Both sides welcomed the recent Budget announcement by Government of India to take up amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) for nuclear reactors, and further decided to establish bilateral arrangements in accordance with CLNDA, that would address the issue of civil liability and facilitate the collaboration of Indian and US industry in the production and deployment of nuclear reactors,” the statement said.

“This path forward will unlock plans to build large U.S.-designed reactors and enable collaboration to develop, deploy and scale up nuclear power generation with advanced small modular reactors,” it added.

President Trump and Prime Minister Modi noted the importance of advancing the people-to-people ties between the two countries.

In this context, they noted that the more than 3,00,000 strong Indian student community contributes over USD 8 billion annually to the US economy and helped create a number of direct and indirect jobs.

They recognized that the talent flow and movement of students, researchers and employees, has mutually benefitted both countries.

“Recognizing the importance of international academic collaborations in fostering innovation, improving learning outcomes and development of a future-ready workforce, both leaders resolved to strengthen collaborations between the higher education institutions through efforts such as joint/dual degree and twinning programs, establishing joint Centers of Excellence, and setting up of offshore campuses of premier educational institutions of the United States in India,” the statement said. (ANI)

BJP MP Calls Mohalla Clinics Model Of Corruption, Demands Immediate Shutdown

BJP MP Yogender Chandoliya on Friday demanded the immediate closure of Delhi’s Mohalla Clinics, accusing them of being a “model of corruption” linked to former Chief Ministers Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi.

“Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi have looted Delhi as Chief Ministers. These are the culprits and are out on the bail, ” Chandoliya claimed.

“Mohalla Clinics should be shut down immediately. ..When we have built up dispensaries of the Delhi government in Nagar Nigam. We have competent doctors and staff. These shops of Mohalla clinics were (opened) for their loved ones to indulge in corruption and black marketing,” the BJP MP further alleged.

“It was a model of their corruption, ” he said, referring to the Mohalla clinics.

Meanwhile, the Union Health Ministry is set to review the status of Delhi’s Mohalla clinics once the government is formed, with plans to potentially convert them into ‘Arogya Mandirs.’ This decision comes amid allegations of corruption within the clinics, prompting the ministry to seek a report from the new Health Minister.

According to official sources, ” The Union Health Ministry will discuss the plans and explore the best possible makeover of Mohalla Clinics as Arogya Mandirs in Delhi and will also seek a report from the new Health Minister on the allegations of corruption charges in Mohalla Clinics.”

The BJP won 48 seats in a historic mandate, marking its return to power in Delhi after 27 years. Several AAP leaders, including former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, lost in their strongholds, while outgoing Chief Minister Atishi managed to retain her seat.

The party secured a landslide victory in the Delhi Assembly election results which was declared on February 8.

The party is yet to announce its chief ministerial candidate to lead the Delhi assembly, as the party emerged victorious in the national capital. The last BJP government in Delhi was from 1993 to 1998. (ANI)

Kharge Blames BJP For Dividing Nation

Kharge Shuffles AICC; Bhaghel Assigned Punjab, Hariprasad Haryana

The Congress effected a major reshuffle of its office-bearers on Friday, appointing former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel as general secretary incharge of Punjab and party MP Syed Naseer Hussain as general secretary in charge of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The party appointed new incharges in several states. The new appointments were made by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

Former general secretary BK Hariprasad has been appointed incharge of Haryana, Krishna Allavaru of Bihar, Rajani Patil of Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh and Harish Chaudhary of Madhya Pradesh. Bihar will go the polls next year.

Congress leader Ajay Kumar Lallu will be incharge of Odisha, K Raju of Jharkhand, Meenakshi Natarajan of Telangana and Girish Chodankar of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

Party leader Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka will be incharge of Manipur, Tripura, Sikkim and Nagaland.

The party has relived Dipak Babaria, Mohan Prakash, Bharatsinh Solanki, Rajeev Shukla, Ajoy Kumar and Devender Yadav of their responsibilities.

The other general secretaries will continue to serve in their designated capacities, party release said.

Syed Naseer Hussain has been relieved from his role attached to the Congress president. Most of new incharges are senior leaders with organisational experience.

The reshuffle has taken place after a string of poor results faced by the Congress.

The party bungled its prospects in Haryana, won a few seats in Maharashtra assembly polls and again failed to open its account in Delhi, third time in a row. (ANI)

Indian Mobile Congress 2024 (IMC) Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia

BSNL Posts Quarterly Profits After 17 Years, Nets ₹262 Cr

State-owned telecom services provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has reported a profit of Rs 262 crore in the third quarter of the financial year, marking its first return to profitability since 2007.

This milestone reflects the company’s focus on innovation, aggressive network expansion, cost optimization, and customer-centric service improvements.

Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia said BSNL’s all three line functions — cellular mobility, FTTH, and lease lines grew during the quarter — at 15 per cent, 18 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government’s own telecom service provider is going back to its path of profitability and we certainly hope that this year will not only see increase in revenues at the end of the fourth quarter, and we (will) also keep expenditure and cost under control and significantly reduce losses…,” Scindia told reporters.

BSNL’s number of subscribers also increased from 8.4 crore in June 2024 to close to 9 crore in December 2024, the minister told the reporters on Friday.

Of planned 100,000 towers, almost 75,000 have been erected, the minister said. About 65,000 odd have been commissioned and by June this year all 100,000 towers will be operational.

Separately, announcing the quarterly financial results, A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD, BSNL, said, with these efforts, they expect revenue growth to improve further, exceeding 20 per cent by the end of the financial year.

Additionally, BSNL has successfully reduced its finance cost and overall expenditure, leading to a decline in losses by over Rs 1,800 crore compared to last year.

To enhance the customer experience, they have introduced new innovations such as National WiFi Roaming, BiTV – Free Entertainment for All Mobile Customers, and IFTV for All FTTH Customers.

“Our continuous focus on Quality of Service and Service Assurance has further strengthened customer trust and reinforced BSNL’s position as a leading telecom service provider in India,” the CMD said. (ANI)

‘Earth Is Our Valentine’: Hindu Priests Launch Conservation Drive At Prayagraj

Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Parmarth Niketan, along with Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati shared a heartfelt message with devotees worldwide on Valentine’s, a day dedicated to love and affection.

In their addresses, both Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati emphasised the urgent need for responsible, collective action toward environmental conservation.

“Our Earth is our Valentine. It gives us life, and now it is our turn to give it love and protection. If we protect the Earth, it will remain healthy and green for future generations,” they said in their message.

To mark the day, they led a mass cleanliness drive, or Mahaswachhta Abhiyan, at the iconic Sangam area and Arail Ghat in Prayagraj.

This initiative was not just about cleaning but about fostering awareness of the critical importance of protecting the Earth’s natural resources — water, air, and the environment — to ensure the welfare of future generations.

Swami Chitanand reminded the gathering of the teachings of ancient sages who advocated for deep respect and love for the Earth, highlighting the timeless truth that without caring for our planet, our future is at risk.

“The Earth gives us everything — air, water, and food. Our responsibility is to ensure that it remains pristine and nurtured for the generations to come,” Swami Chitanand added.

He encouraged people to take individual responsibility through everyday actions such as waste management, water conservation, and planting trees — all of which contribute to sustaining our planet’s health.

Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati also spoke out about the growing issue of plastic pollution.

“Plastic waste is a silent destroyer of our environment and our health,” she warned and urged everyone to reduce plastic usage and adopt practices of recycling and reuse.

“The plastic we dispose of is a serious threat to the future of our planet. Let us take action now to protect the environment. The Maha Kumbh teaches us the significance of cleanliness — not just of the body but of our surroundings,” she said.

Plastic pollution, which has become one of the biggest challenges for the Earth, not only endangers human health but also severely impacts our water sources and ecosystems. The call to action is clear: reduce plastic use, recycle, and keep the environment free from such hazardous waste.

Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati further explained that the goal of the Mahaswachhta Abhiyan was not only to clean but to encourage a deeper understanding of cleanliness.

“Cleanliness must not be confined to our homes and cities. It is a way of showing love and respect for the Earth. We cannot ensure the well-being of future generations if we do not protect the environment today,” she said.

Swami Chidanand Saraswati made a heartfelt appeal to everyone and said, “We must leave behind a green, clean Earth for future generations. The sooner we take action, the more we can save our planet.”

Through the Mahaswachhta Abhiyan, Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati spread the important message of love and responsibility toward the Earth. They urged everyone to do their part in preserving the planet, ensuring a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future for all.

As they led the cleanliness drive, volunteers and devotees from across the globe joined hands, reinforcing the collective commitment to protecting the environment.

With continued awareness and action, we can indeed secure a cleaner, more vibrant Earth for future generations — making every day Valentine’s Day for the planet. (ANI)

Andhra Govt Steps Up Measures To Contain Bird Flu ‘Outbreak’

The Andhra Pradesh government has intensified efforts to curb the spread of bird flu, with strict containment measures in place across three affected districts. Over one lakh hens have been culled so far, while officials have designated red and surveillance zones to prevent further transmission.

Additional Director of Animal Husbandry, Dr Satya Kumari on Friday stated, “The bird flu is currently restricted to three districts and five farms. Approximately one lakh hens have been culled due to the outbreak.”

“Wherever we identify bird flu, we declare a red zone with a radius of one kilometre and a surveillance zone with a radius of ten kilometres. Farmers need not panic, as the number of cases is decreasing, and we are taking appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the disease,” she assured.

Yesterday, Andhra Agriculture, Cooperation, Marketing, and Animal Husbandry Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu reassured the public that there was no cause for concern regarding bird flu, as the government had implemented strict measures to control its spread.

“There is no need for anyone to worry about bird flu, as the government is constantly vigilant and has taken stringent measures to control its spread”, said Atchannaidu.

According to a release from the Director of the Information & Public Relations Department, Andhra Pradesh Secretariat, while speaking to the media, the minister stated, “Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu had immediately responded to the issue by consulting with the Joint Secretary of the Central Animal Husbandry Department and scientists from the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.”

Eluru district is currently experiencing a bird flu outbreak, with approximately one lakh chickens dying at a poultry farm in Badampudi, Unguturu.

Authorities had earlier confirmed the presence of bird flu after laboratory tests, prompting urgent measures, including the establishment of a control room and the deployment of Rapid Response Teams.

Eluru District Collector K Vetriselvi stated, “Recently, a large number of chickens died at a poultry farm in Badampudi, Unguturu. The Eluru district authorities sent samples for laboratory testing, and the results confirmed that the samples tested positive for bird flu.” (ANI)

‘You Are Outstanding’: Katrina Lauds Vicky’s Work In ‘Chhaava’

Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal left his wife, Katrina Kaif, awestruck with his captivating performance in his latest release, Chhaava.

Taking to Instagram, Katrina penned a heartfelt note, giving a shoutout to the entire team of Chhaava.

“What a cinematic experience and what a monumentus task to bring to life the glory of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj,@laxman.utekar tells this incredible story in the most brilliant way, im in awe, the last 40 min of the film will leave you speechless. I’ve spent all morning wanting to go and rewatch it again.I’m lost for words at the impact of this film,” she wrote.

Calling Vicky “outstanding”, Katrina added, ” @vickykaushal09 you truly are outstanding, every time you come on screen, every shot, the intensity you bring on screen, you are a chameleon the way you transform to your characters, effortless and fluid,I’m so proud of you and your talent.#DineshVijan what is there to say ……you are a true VISIONARY… you support and put your conviction in what you believe in and a carving a new trail of brilliance.The entire cast are phenomenal…. This is a film for the big screen … so proud of the whole team.”

On Thursday night, Katrina even attended the film’s screening. She and Vicky happily posed for the shutterbugs.

Vicky also garnered praise from his brother Sunny Kaushal.

“Words are not enough to describe how I feel about this film…it roars and soars. Please go and watch Chhaava,” Sunny posted.

Produced under the banner of Maddock Films, ‘Chhaava’ is a period drama that portrays the legendary story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, played by Vicky Kaushal. The film is set to depict the courageous Maratha ruler’s legendary reign, beginning with his coronation in 1681.

While speaking to the media during the film promotion in the national capital, he recalled how Katrina reacted to his physical transformation in the film.

“She was very happy and she was so happy to the point that she misses ‘Chhaava’ now. Vo har Chhaava ka poster aate hai to 4-5 likes uski taraf se aate hai and with the comment ‘Ye kahan gaya’ (Pointing towards Vicky’s character in the film).”Vicky Kaushal added, “She is eagerly waiting for ‘Mahavatar’ (his next film) because of the beard look and all.”

He shared what he ate after wrapping up the shoot, saying, “I ate gol gappe and chaat after wrapping up the shoot.”Kaushal said that preparation for the role was very demanding and he hardly used to get time for himself.

He praised Katrina for being understanding, “When you are shooting non-stop, you hardly get any time because of 12 hours of shoot, 2 hours of training before, 2 hours of action rehearsal after that. You hardly have time and by the time you are back at home, you just want to sleep. However, Katrina being part of the industry, understands my work, she was very kind and sweet.” (ANI)

Home Ministry Seeks President’s Approval For Prosecution Of Jain

Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has requested the President’s approval to prosecute former Delhi Minister Satyendra Kumar Jain under Section 218 of Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, sources said.

According to sources, the request was made based on evidence gathered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The agency’s findings reportedly provide sufficient grounds for legal proceedings against Jain.

“Ministry of Home Affairs has requested the President to grant prosecution sanction for initiating legal proceedings against Satyendra Kumar Jain, former minister of the Delhi government, under Section 218 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Based on the material received from the Enforcement Directorate, sufficient evidence has been found to prosecute Satyendra Kumar Jain in this case. Therefore, a request has been made for prosecution sanction to proceed with the case in court,” sources said.

The prosecution sanction, if granted, will pave the way for the case to proceed in court. Jain, a former minister in the Delhi government, has been under scrutiny over alleged financial irregularities and other charges.

This development marks another significant step in the ongoing legal proceedings against the former minister. Further updates are awaited on the President’s decision regarding the prosecution sanction.

Section 218 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, outlines the protocol for prosecuting judges and public servants for offenses committed during their official duties. It mandates that no court shall take cognizance of such offenses without prior sanction from the appropriate government authority. This provision aims to protect officials from frivolous or malicious prosecutions, ensuring they can perform their duties without undue interference.

The section applies to individuals who are or were judges, magistrates, or public servants not removable from their office without government sanction. It covers offenses alleged to have been committed while acting or purporting to act in the discharge of official duties. Courts cannot take cognizance of such offenses without prior sanction from the relevant government authority, except as provided in the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.

Jain has been under investigation by the ED in connection with a money laundering case that dates back to 2017. The case centers on allegations that Jain, during his tenure as a minister, was involved in laundering money through a network of shell companies.

In August 2017, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered an FIR against Jain under the Prevention of Corruption Act, accusing him of acquiring assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. Following this, the ED initiated a probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), alleging that Jain had laundered money through various shell companies.

On May 30, 2022, the ED arrested Jain based on evidence suggesting his involvement in money laundering activities. He was accused of routing illicit funds through shell companies and layering them to obscure their origins. Jain remained in custody for approximately 18 months. In October 2024, a Delhi court granted him bail, citing prolonged incarceration and delays in the trial process.

As of January 2025, the ED has urged a Delhi court to frame charges against Jain, asserting that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial. The court has scheduled further hearings to deliberate on the framing of charges.

The ED alleges that Jain, in collusion with associates, facilitated the transfer of unaccounted money through a complex web of shell companies. These funds were purportedly used to acquire assets and properties, thereby integrating illicit money into the financial system. (ANI)

Trump Gifts Modi ‘Journey Together’ Photobook With Personal Note

US President Donald Trump presented “great friend for a long time” Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a personalised book capturing their camaraderie over the years, during the meeting of the two leaders at the White House in Washington DC on February 13.

The book “Our Journey Together” features photos from the historic “Howdy Modi” and “Namaste Trump” events. On the cover page of the book the President of the United States wrote “Mr Prime Minister, You are great!.” along with his signature.

Earlier on Prime Minister Modi’s arrival at the White House, Trump welcomed him with a hug and the words, “We missed you a lot.”

Trump has always spoken about his friendship with PM Modi. Addressing a joint press conference, the US President introduced PM Modi as “a terrific man, a great leader,” adding that the largest democracy and the oldest democracy “India and US share great unity.”

PM Modi, on his part, thanked “my friend” President Trump said that both leaders together resolve that they “will together march towards progress and prosperity of our nations.”

Further, he said that when US the world’s oldest democracy and India the largest democracy come together, “We make 1+1 =11 not 2, and this is the power of 11 that is going to work for the welfare of humanity.”

Meanwhile, Al Mason, a close aide to President Trump and advisor on geopolitics, praised the strong bond between the two leaders, likening them to a “university of politics” that other world leaders could learn from.

“Many world leaders will have to train and graduate in President Trump’s and PM Modi’s University of Politics, the textbooks of which will include courses on both President Trump’s and PM Modi’s landslide victories, their friendship, their sharp brain power, instant political instincts, fierce determination, robust energy, self-confidence, passionately connecting with all kinds of voters, tirelessly fighting everyday challenges, their far sight, his vision, their showmanship, and above all their larger than life persona and infectious charm, all of which are unmatched by any global leader, or past Indian Prime Ministers and past US presidents,” Mason said.

“Many global political courses seriously plan to include lectures and case studies on President Trump’s and Prime Minister Modi’s victories,” said Mason, a New York-based entrepreneur.

Mason praised the lasting impact of Trump’s “MAGA” brand and PM Modi’s vision for India, saying they have become an integral part of the hearts and minds of Americans and Indians alike, and will shape the future of US and Indian politics.

“President Trump’s MAGA brand and PM Modi’s Make India Great Again (MIGA) are now cemented in the minds and hearts of most Americans and Indians, and will dominate US politics for generations to come. Trump and Modi live in the hearts and minds of their people. The same is the very reason President Trump and PM Modi are the choice of the people, the voice of the people and the savior of the people. Therefore, the Trump Doctrine of America First, and Modi’s Doctrine of India First, which has struck a mighty chord with all kinds of American and Indian voters, will be the benchmark for winning future elections for both the US and India,” Mason said.

Notably, PM Modi on Friday drew a parallel between India’s “Viksit Bharat” vision and the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) slogan in the United States, coining the term “Make India Great Again” (MIGA).

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi noted that India and the US have formed a “MEGA” partnership to drive prosperity for both nations.

“President Trump often talks about MAGA. In India, we are working towards a Viksit Bharat, which in American context translates into MIGA. And together, the India-USA have a MEGA partnership for prosperity!” the Prime Minister posted.

Earlier at a joint press conference, PM Modi said that the people of the US are aware of Trump’s motto, MAGA, while the people of India are moving towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047. He said that India and the US will strengthen the oil and gas trade to ensure India’s energy security.

“The people of America are well aware of President Trump’s motto, ‘MAGA–Make America Great Again.’ The people of India too are focusing on heritage and development as they move forward at a fast pace and with a firm resolve towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047. In the language of America, it’s Make India Great Again – MIGA. When America and India work together, this MAGA plus MIGA becomes a ‘mega partnership for prosperity,’ and it is this mega spirit that gives new scale and scope to our objectives,” the PM said.

PM Modi also stated that India and the US have set a USD 500 billion target for bilateral trade by 2023 and added that the teams of two nations will work together to finalise a mutually beneficial trade agreement.

“Today, we have also set a target to increase our bilateral trade to more than double, reaching USD 500 billion by 2030. Our teams will work on finalising very soon a mutually beneficial trade agreement,” he added.

He announced that India and the US are moving forward in the direction of joint development, joint production and transfer of technology. He said that the partnership and cooperation between India and the US together can shape a better world. The Prime Minister is among the first few world leaders to visit the United States following President Trump’s inauguration. (ANI)

RBI Supersedes New India Cooperative Bank Board For 12 Months

Reserve Bank of India superseded the Board of Directors of New India Cooperative Bank Ltd, Mumbai, for a period of 12 months, the central bank said in a statement on Friday, a day after it imposed several restrictions on the lender.

Consequently, the RBI has appointed Shreekant, former Chief General Manager of State Bank of India (SBI) as ‘Administrator’ to manage the affairs of the bank during this period.

The RBI has also appointed a ‘Committee of Advisors’ to assist the Administrator in discharging his duties. The members of the Committee of Advisors are Ravindra Sapra (former General Manager, SBI) and Abhijeet Deshmukh (Chartered Accountant).

The action was necessitated “due to certain material concerns emanating from poor governance standards observed” in the Mumbai-headquartered New India Cooperative Bank Ltd.

This morning, customers gathered in hundreds outside Mumbai-headquartered New India Co-operative Bank Limited branches to withdraw their hard-earned savings, soon after the Reserve Bank of India imposed several restrictions on the lender.

Panicky account holders converged outside the bank branches spread across Mumbai city, worried over the fate of their bank savings and lockers.

The people ANI spoke to said that bank officials have assured them access to their lockers.

Late on Thursday, the RBI directed New India Co-operative Bank Limited, Mumbai that it shall not, without prior written approval of the central bank, grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment, incur any liability including borrowing of funds and acceptance of fresh deposits, disburse or agree to disburse any payment whether in the discharge of its liabilities and obligations or otherwise, enter into any compromise or arrangement and sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets except as notified by the RBI.

Considering the cooperative bank’s present liquidity position, the RBI has directed not to allow the withdrawal of any amount from savings bank or current accounts or any other account of a depositor but is allowed to set off loans against deposits subject to RBI conditions.

The bank can incur expenditure in respect of certain essential items such as salaries of employees, rent, electricity bills, — but only as specified by the RBI.

These directions against the Bank were necessitated due to supervisory concerns emanating from the recent material developments in the bank, and to protect the interest of depositors of the bank, the RBI said, while slapping the restrictions.

The eligible depositors would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of their deposits up to a monetary ceiling of Rs 5 lakh in the same capacity and in the same right, from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), as applicable under the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on submission of willingness by the depositors concerned and after due verification.

The depositors have been advised to contact bank officials for further information and details can be accessed on the DICGC website.

“The issue of the above Directions by the RBI should not per se be construed as cancellation of banking license by RBI. The bank will continue to undertake banking business subject to restrictions specified in the said Directions till its financial position improves. The RBI continues to monitor the position of the bank and will take necessary actions including modifications of these Directions, as warranted, depending upon circumstances and in the interest of the depositors,” the RBI said in its Thursday order.

These directions against New India Co-operative Bank Limited, Mumbai is set to remain in force for a period of six months from the close of business on February 13, 2025 and are subject to review.

During the past four decades of its operations, the Bank has established 30 branches, which are located in Mumbai, Thane, Surat and Pune, according to its website. The bank achieved a “scheduled bank ” status on November 1, 1990. The bank achieved a “multi-state status” on October 22, 1999. (ANI)