“It’s been 11 years of infrastructure revolution with outstanding infrastructure being added that has enhanced India’s growth trajectory,” Modi said on X.

From railways to highways, ports to airports, India’s rapidly expanding infrastructure network is boosting “Ease of Living” and enhancing prosperity, he said.

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The Union Budget 2024-25, which resonates with the spirit of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ emphasizes inclusive growth with a focus on Mahilayen, Garib, Yuva, and Annadata. This budget is significantly influenced by the impact of the Lok Sabha elections, which re-elected PM Narendra Modi for a historic third term. The election message for the BJP is writ large on the first budget of Modi 3.0: that their parliamentary seats have decreased, and there are upcoming assembly elections in three states. Setting a robust roadmap for India’s development, the budget, tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharama, outlines nine critical priorities, each designed to augment growth, inclusivity, and resilience.

By leveraging these opportunities, Public Relations (PR) professionals can play a vital role in amplifying the impact of the government’s initiatives, benefiting all stakeholders, including Sarkar and Aaam Aadami. PR experts and communication strategists can shape public perception of the budget agenda, the blueprints of ministries, and their initiatives. To effectively disseminate messages, government entities can harness the power of events and publicity.

Here, are nine priorities outlined in the budget and the myriad ways in which PR can amplify their implementation and extend their reach.

1. Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture

Opportunities:

· Allocation of ₹1.52 lakh crore to agriculture and allied sectors.

· Introduction of 109 new high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties across 32 field and horticulture crops.

· Enrollment of 1 crore farmers into natural farming practices, with certification and branding within the next 2 years.

· Establishment of 10,000 need-based bio-input resource centers for natural farming.

· Implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to cover farmers and their lands within 3 years.

Analysis: PR campaigns can effectively spotlight the advantages of digital crop surveys and farmer registries by sharing success stories of farmers who have embraced these innovations. By creating educational content and targeted communications, PR agencies can enhance farmers’ understanding of DPI’s benefits, building trust and encouraging adoption. Hosting workshops and webinars can further facilitate the transfer of knowledge, enabling farmers to implement new practices efficiently.

2. Employment and Skilling

Opportunities:

Implementation of three schemes under the Prime Minister’s package for ‘Employment Linked Incentives’:

· Scheme A: First Timers – providing wage support to new employees.

· Scheme B: Job Creation in Manufacturing – offering incentives to create new jobs.

· Scheme C: Support to Employers – financial assistance to employers for additional hires.

· Establishment of working women hostels and crèches in collaboration with industries.

· Organization of women-specific skilling programs and promotion of market access for women SHG enterprises.

· Introduction of a new centrally sponsored skilling scheme under the Prime Minister’s Package to benefit 20 lakh youth over the next 5 years.

· Revision of the Model Skill Loan Scheme to offer loans up to ₹7.5 lakh.

· Provision of financial support for loans up to ₹10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions for youth who have not previously benefited from government schemes.

Analysis: PR campaigns can effectively highlight the advantages of these employment and skilling schemes by showcasing success stories of first-time employees and employers who have benefited from these initiatives. Emphasizing the impact of direct benefit transfers and additional job opportunities can drive greater participation. Leveraging social media and forging partnerships with educational institutions can amplify these messages, ensuring they reach and resonate with the target audience. Additionally, campaigns can focus on the positive outcomes of the women-specific programs and support for higher education, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth.

3. Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice

Opportunity: The government’s focus on all-round development and social justice creates numerous PR opportunities to promote inclusivity.

· Purvodaya: Development initiatives aimed at Eastern India.

· Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act: Addressing the unique needs of the newly reorganized state.

· Women-led Development: Programs to empower women across various sectors.

· Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan: Enhancing the quality of life in tribal areas.

· Expansion of Bank Branches in the North-Eastern Region: Increasing financial inclusion.

Analysis: PR agencies play a crucial role in highlighting the government’s dedication to supporting marginalized communities through these initiatives. Campaigns can spotlight the transformative effects of schemes such as PM Vishwakarma, PM SVANidhi, and Stand-Up India, fostering empowerment and engagement among beneficiaries. By partnering with NGOs and community organizations, PR agencies can amplify these messages, ensuring they effectively reach and resonate with the target audience. This strategic approach not only raises awareness but also enhances the overall impact of these development programs, driving positive change and fostering a sense of inclusion and support among diverse communities.

4. Manufacturing and Services

Opportunity: Special attention to MSMEs and labour-intensive manufacturing highlights the budget’s focus on industrial growth. The comprehensive package for MSMEs, including financing, regulatory changes, and technology support, aims to boost their global competitiveness. Schemes like the Credit Guarantee Scheme and Mudra Loans are designed to facilitate easier access to credit for MSMEs, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. This focus on manufacturing is expected to drive job creation and economic diversification.

It presents a significant opportunity for PR professionals.

Analysis: PR campaigns can showcase the government’s initiatives to support MSMEs through financial packages, regulatory changes, and technology support. Highlighting stories of MSMEs that have successfully leveraged these initiatives can inspire other businesses to follow suit. PR agencies can also create content that educates MSMEs about the available support, helping them navigate the complexities of accessing these benefits.

5. Urban Development

Opportunity: The PM Awas Yojana Urban 2.0 addresses the housing needs of urban poor and middle-class families with a substantial investment of Rs 10 lakh crore. The provision of affordable loans and interest subsidies ensures accessible housing solutions. Additionally, the promotion of water supply, sewage treatment, and solid waste management in 100 large cities enhances urban infrastructure. By developing ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, the government aims to create sustainable urban ecosystems that can drive economic growth and improve living standards.

It provides a rich ground for PR campaigns focused on sustainable urban living.

Analysis: PR agencies can craft narratives that emphasize the transformative impact of these housing and urban development projects. Success stories of families benefiting from affordable housing can be highlighted to showcase the government’s commitment to improving urban living conditions. Additionally, PR campaigns can promote the benefits of sustainable urban infrastructure projects, encouraging public participation and support.

6. Energy Security

Opportunity: The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a transformative step towards achieving energy security. The installation of rooftop solar plants for 1 crore households, providing free electricity up to 300 units per month, not only reduces energy costs but also promotes sustainable energy consumption. This initiative aligns with India’s renewable energy goals and addresses environmental sustainability. The budget’s focus on energy transition pathways balances the imperatives of employment, growth, and environmental sustainability.

It offers a unique opportunity for PR professionals to promote renewable energy initiatives.

Analysis: PR campaigns can focus on the environmental and economic benefits of rooftop solar plants, encouraging more households to participate in the scheme. Highlighting success stories and testimonials from households that have benefited from free electricity can create a positive buzz. Educational content about the long-term savings and environmental impact of solar energy can further enhance public awareness and participation.

7. Infrastructure

Opportunity: The allocation of Rs 11,11,111 crore for capital expenditure underscores the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. This substantial investment is expected to have a multiplier effect on the economy, driving growth and job creation. The provision of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for interest-free loans to states encourages them to prioritize infrastructure development. By maintaining strong fiscal support for infrastructure, the government aims to build a robust foundation for sustained economic growth.

The substantial investment in infrastructure provides a platform for PR campaigns that emphasize economic growth and development.

Analysis: PR agencies can create narratives that highlight the multiplier effect of infrastructure investments on the economy. Success stories of regions that have benefited from improved infrastructure can be showcased to illustrate the tangible benefits of these projects. PR campaigns can also promote the importance of state-level support and collaboration, encouraging states to prioritize infrastructure development.

8. Innovation, Research & Development

Opportunity: The operationalization of the Anusandhan National Research Fund and the establishment of a private sector-driven research mechanism signify the government’s dedication to innovation. The Rs 1 lakh crore financing pool for research and development aims to spur technological advancements and commercialization. The venture capital fund for expanding the space economy further demonstrates India’s ambition to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies. These initiatives are critical for maintaining a culture of innovation and maintaining global competitiveness.

The operationalization of the Anusandhan National Research Fund and private sector-driven research initiatives offer significant PR opportunities.

Analysis: PR campaigns can highlight the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancements. Stories of successful research projects and technological innovations can inspire further participation from the private sector. PR agencies can also promote the benefits of the venture capital fund for the space economy, positioning India as a leader in space research and development.

9. Next Generation Reforms

Opportunity: The formulation of an Economic Policy Framework for next-generation reforms reflects the government’s forward-thinking approach. By improving productivity and efficiency across factors of production—land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship—the budget sets the stage for sustainable economic growth. The emphasis on technology as an enabler and the collaboration between the Centre and states highlight the importance of competitive federalism. These reforms aim to create a conducive environment for business, drive investment, and ensure long-term economic stability.

The government’s focus on next-generation reforms offers a platform for PR campaigns that emphasize economic modernization and productivity.

Analysis: PR agencies can craft narratives that explain the importance of reforms in improving productivity and market efficiency. Success stories of businesses and regions that have benefited from these reforms can be highlighted to illustrate their impact. Educational content about the long-term benefits of these reforms can help build public support and understanding.

In nutshell, the Union Budget 2024-25 provides numerous opportunities for PR agencies to play a pivotal role in promoting and enhancing the impact of the government’s initiatives. By building persuasive narratives, highlighting success stories, and educating the public, PR professionals can help ensure that these initiatives reach their full potential, facilitating more informed and supportive populace that will drive India towards its goal of becoming a developed nation.

Ramakant Chaudhary is senior journalist and currently working with PRP Group as Content Head. He has worked in various editorial roles with Financial Express, Mint (Hindustan Times Group), The Times Of India, Jagran Post (Dainik Jagran Group), The Pioneer, and The Political and Business Daily. He writes going beyond headlines on: politics, government policy, economy, infrastructure, real estate, education, social issues, lifestyle, and health.

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Amidst the labyrinthine maze of Indian politics, Narendra Modi stands as a towering figure, not merely as a leader but as a squarely crafted brand. From his humble beginnings as a party worker to his ascension to the highest office in the country, Modi’s journey has been punctuated by strategic PR manoeuvres that have not only modified his image but have also struck a chord with the masses. The nuances of Modi’s masterful PR communication strategies have unambiguously cemented his brand identity. However, what truly sets Modi apart is his ability to connect with the masses on a personal level. His PR strategies go beyond mere slogans; they tap into the aspirations and sentiments of the Indian populace. Modi’s communication is not just about delivering speeches; it’s about telling a compelling story of hope, progress, and national pride.

Whether it’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” “Achhe Din,” “Pradhan Sevak,” “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao”, “Vocal for Local”, “Make in India”, “Double Engine Ki Sarkar,” “Teesri Baar Modi Sarkar, Abki Baar 400 Paar,” or “Modi Ki Guarantee,” PM Modi’s electoral campaign taglines have reverberated widely across the country. These slogans encapsulate the essence of his vision to serve the nation and effect revolutionary change in people’s lives.

Each tagline represents a strategic communication move, portraying Modi as a leader firmly rooted in the soil of India, committed to the welfare of its citizens. His adeptness in connecting and engaging with the masses through these slogans has left an indelible mark on the political landscape.

These taglines not only serve as rallying cries for his supporters but also convey a sense of assurance and promise to the electorate. They symbolize Modi’s steadfast dedication to governance, progress, and inclusivity, making them potent tools in his political arsenal. Through these taglines, PM Modi has effectively crafted a narrative that strikes chord with the aspirations and hopes of millions of Indians, cementing his position as a formidable leader on the national stage.

‘Mann Ki Baat’, an iconic radio program, serves as a significant channel of communication through which Prime Minister Modi has cultivated a trusted rapport with citizens. It has emerged as a cornerstone of communication between the government and the people of India. Through this platform, PM Modi addresses the nation, sharing his thoughts, ideas, and vision directly with the citizens. It serves as a bridge between the leadership and the public, building  a sense of unity and understanding.

During the high-stakes 2019 election campaign, one of the standout PR exercises was Modi’s ‘non-political interview’ with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar. This unconventional move, aimed at showcasing Modi’s softer and more relatable side, not only captured widespread attention but also struck a chord with diverse segments of the population. By leveraging the reach and appeal of popular culture, Modi effectively humanized his image, making him more approachable to the masses.

A cornerstone of Modi’s communication strategy has been his adept handling of reputation crises. Despite facing severe backlash over contentious policies such as demonetization and GST, as well as allegations of corruption in defense deals, Modi managed to weather the storm by strategically deploying PR narratives that countered negative publicity. Through carefully curated stories and messaging, Modi was able to deflect criticism and maintain his credibility among the electorate.

Another pivotal aspect of Modi’s brand evolution has been his image makeover. From his early days as a grassroots worker clad in Khadi to his MODI-fication into a statesman-like figure donning tailored suits, Modi’s sartorial choices have mirrored his political journey. The shift in his attire symbolizes not just a personal transformation but also a strategic rebranding aimed at projecting a modern and progressive image to both domestic and international audiences.

At the heart of Modi’s PR strategy lies his ability to deliver the right message at the right time. His speeches are carefully created to follow a narrative arc that resonates with the masses. By framing himself as the quintessential underdog hero who triumphs over adversity, Modi effectively taps into the collective aspirations and sentiments of the electorate, positioning himself as a beacon of hope and change.

During times of crisis, Modi’s Public Relations playbook emphasizes the importance of projecting his humane side and refraining from engaging in confrontational rhetoric. By adopting a measured and composed approach, Modi not only avoids escalating tensions but also projects an image of stability and leadership in the face of adversity. His calculated silence on contentious issues such as mob lynching, Manipur mayhem and unemployment figures has been instrumental in defusing potential controversies and maintaining his aura of authority.

Modi’s electoral successes can be attributed in large part to his ability to connect with the emotions of the Indian electorate. In the landmark 2014 elections, Modi tapped into the collective frustrations of the youth, farmers, Aam Aadmi, and businessmen, promising a brighter future with his slogan of ‘Achhe Din Aane Wale hai’. This message struck a chord with millions of disillusioned voters, propelling Modi to power with a resounding mandate.

Similarly, during the 2019 election campaign, Modi capitalized on the wave of nationalism following the Balakot air strikes, positioning himself as a strong and decisive leader capable of safeguarding the nation’s security interests. By tapping into the patriotic fervour of the electorate, Modi galvanized support and secured a landslide victory, further solidifying his image as a charismatic and visionary leader.

Whenever opposition parties launched personal attacks on Modi, they often found themselves backfiring, thanks to Modi’s strategic communication tactics that put his opponents on the defensive. One such instance was the “Chowkidar Chor Hai” slogan coined by the Congress to tarnish Modi’s image in light of the demonetisation and Rafale scam controversies. However, Modi turned the tables in his favour by launching the “Main Bhi Chowkidar” campaign, catching his opponents off guard and reaping substantial electoral benefits.

In another episode, during the 2014 elections, Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar made a disparaging remark suggesting that Modi, coming from humble beginnings, was unfit to be prime minister and could only sell tea at Congress gatherings. Responding swiftly, Modi’s team orchestrated the “Chai Pe Charcha” campaign, effectively putting Congress on the backfoot and showcasing Modi’s connection with the common people.

These instances underscore Modi’s adeptness at converting adversities into opportunities through strategic communication, ultimately bolstering his political stature and resonance with the masses.

Put simply, Narendra Modi’s political brand underlines the power of effective PR communication in shaping public perceptions and influencing electoral outcomes. His ability to adapt his messaging, connect with diverse audiences, and navigate through crises with finesse underscores the importance of strategic communication in modern politics. As Modi continues to chart his course on the turbulent seas of Indian politics, his brand stands as a shining example of effective leadership and communication in the digital age.

Ramakant Chaudhary is senior journalist and currently working with PRP Group as Content Head. He has worked in various editorial roles with Financial Express, Mint (Hindustan Times Group), The Times Of India, Jagran Post (Dainik Jagran Group), The Pioneer, and The Political and Business Daily. He writes going beyond headlines on: politics, government policy, economy, infrastructure, real estate, education, social issues, lifestyle, and health.

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The terminal building is built in an area of approximately 75,000 sqm at Rs 1112 Crore. Union Minister of Civil Aviation  Sh. Jyotiraditya M Scindia briefed the Prime Minister regarding the state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities of this airport terminal.

Developed at a cost of more than 1100 crore, the two-level new international terminal building can serve more than 44 lakh passengers annually and about 3500 passengers during peak hours. The new terminal hosts state-of-the-art amenities and features for passenger convenience.

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मध्यप्रदेश के ग्वालियर में चुनावी प्रचार का शंखनाद करते हुए कांग्रेस नेता प्रियंका गांधी ने साफ कर दिया कि मध्यप्रदेश में इस बार विधानसभा चुनाव में वो पीएम मोदी नहीं बल्कि मंहगाई को मुददा बनायेगी .असल में ये पीएम मोदी के चेहरे की बीजेपी की रणनीती का जवाब है और कांग्रेस ने कर्नाटक की तरह ही अपनी रणनीति लोकल मुददों पर ही फोकस करने की रख ली है ये बीजेपी के लिए मुश्किलें पैदा कर सकती है .

प्रियंका ने अपने भाषण की शुरुआत में ही साफ कर दिया कि वो बीजेपी की तरह आरोप प्रत्यारोप की राजनीती नहीं करेगी और ये नहीं गिनायेंगी कि मोदी सरकार ने क्या नहीं किया लेकिन वो जनता के मुददों पर बात करेंगी .प्रियंका ने साफ कर दिया कि इस बार मध्यप्रदेश में मंहगाई और बेरोजगारी ही सबसे बड़ा मुददा कांग्रेस के प्रचार की धुरी रहेगी . यदि इसी पर कांग्रेस कायम रहती है तो ये चुनाव बहुत ही रोचक हो जायेगा . क्योंकि बीजेपी इस बार शिवराज मामा को आगे नहीं कर रही बल्कि पीएम मोदी को ही चेहरा बनाकर चुनाव लड़ना चाहती है.

असल में बीजेपी का अनुमान है कि चुनाव कांटे का होगा लेकिन सीटों का अंतर 20 से 30 का ही होगा जिसे बीजेपी मोदी के चेहरे से पूरा करना चाहती है मगर कांग्रेस की रणनीति साफ है कि इस बार पूरा चुनाव लोकल मुददों पर ही लड़ा जाये इसलिए प्रिंयंका ने महिला अत्याचार के बहाने मणिपुर पर पीएम की चुप्पी की बात और राजनीती की बात तो की लेकिन जल्दी ही लोकल के मुददों मंहगाई और बेरोजगारी पर वापस आ गयी . कांग्रेस का आंकलन है इस समय पेट्रोल डीजल से लेकर टमाटर तक के भाव लोगों को चुभ रहे हैं और यही मुददा वो खेलना चाहती है . इसके साथ बेरोजगारी और परीक्षा में घोटाला भी मध्यप्रदेश का बड़ा मुददा है इसलिए उस पर भी प्रिंयंका जमकर बोली ताकि ये मुददे आगे भी गरमाते रहें. मध्यप्रदेश में बेरोजगारी की दर लगातार बढ़ रही और सरकारी नौकरियों में भर्ती की लगभग हर परीक्षा में घोटाले की बात सामने आती रही है . हाल का सबसे बड़ा खुलासा पटवारी परीक्षा मे घोटाले का है और उसकी तुलना व्यापम घोटाले से की जा रही है .इसका जवाब बीजेपी के पास नहीं है .

मध्यप्रदेश में बीजेपी कई खेमों में बंटी हुयी है और ये गुटबाजी लगातार सामने आती रही है . ग्वालियर चंबल संभाग में 38 सींटें हैं जिसमें से 18 पिछली बार भाजपा ने जीती थी लेकिन सिंधिया को लेकर इतनी गुटबाजी है कि खुद बीजेपी के नेता ही उनके खिलाफ खबरें छपवाते रहते हैं और सिंधिय़ा को लगातार बाहरी बताते रहते हैं .अगर सिंधिया इस बार अपने इस गढ को नहीं बचा पाये तो एमपी में उनको बीजेपी में से ही चुनौती मिलना शुरु हो जायेगा .इसके अलावा नरोत्तम मिश्रा . नरेंद सिंह तोमर और कैलाश विजयवर्गीय जैसे दावेदारों के कारण भी खींचतान चल रही है यही वजह है कि गृहमंत्री अमित शाह को भोपाल आकर नेताओं को संमझाना पड़ा कि मिलकर चलें और एक दूसरे के खिलाफ नहीं बोलें.

एमपी के चुनाव में एक बड़ा मुददा पुरानी पेंशन योजना का भी है जिस पर सरकारी कर्मचारी लगाातार आंदोलन कर रहे हैं .कांग्रेस ने पुरानी पेंशन योजना फिर से लागू करने का ऐलान करके बाजी मार ली है और अब बीजेपी को समझ नहीं आ रहा है कि इसका तोड़ क्या निकाला जाये इसके लिए एनपीएस में बदलाव की बात हो रही है मगर वो उतना आसान नहीं है .अब बस बीजेपी को धार्मिक ध्रुवीकरण का ही सहारा मिल सकता है और कांग्रेस के नेता दिग्विजय सिंह इसमें मदद कर सकते हैं लेकिन प्रिंयंका ने अपनी रैली में साफ कर दिया है कि कांग्रेस इस तरह के मुददों से बचेगी और केवल मंहगाई बेरोजगारी और विकास के मुददों पर फोकस करेगी .रणनीती तो सही है लेकिन अमल में अभी कई चुनौतियां बाकी है .

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This is a paradox of the situation, as on one hand we have successfully sent Chandrayaan 3 to explore water on the south pole of the moon, on the other hand, the national capital of India is facing a deluge of water. Lo and behold, it has not rained in Delhi so much, but Pandava’s Indraprastha is flooded. The Yamuna river in Delhi witnessed an unprecedented surge causing severe flooding in nearby areas and affecting streets, public facilities and private infrastructure. Residents in the affected areas are grappling with odds and adversary in the face of unprecedented events. The authorities evacuated as many as 16,564 people and around 14,534 of them took refuge in tents pitched by the Delhi government and under flyovers.

People marooned

Thousands of people were compelled to seek refuge on the road. Schools, colleges, crematoriums and even water treatment plants in Delhi were closed as overflowing Yamuna inundated the national capital. As per media reports, the water level of the Yamuna, all-time high on Thursday, is gradually receding, however several parts in Delhi, including Supreme court, ITO, Rajghat, iconic Lal Qila among others are confronting the challenges of flood. As people were on Thursday battling with flood, five gates of the ITO barrage were reportedly jammed, spelling more trouble. The crops planted on hundreds of acres in Delhi’s Madanpur Khadar were destroyed owing to flooding in the areas.  According to a trader’s body: “An estimated Rs 200 crore worth of business has been affected due to rains and flooding in parts of the national capital.”

Commuters faced difficulties as traffic was diverted due to waterlogging at ITO road, a key stretch connecting east Delhi to Lutyens’s Delhi. “No vehicular traffic will be allowed on Mahatma Gandhi Marg from Sarai Kale Khan towards IP Flyover due to overflow of drain water near WHO Building. Commuters are advised to avoid the stretch,” the Delhi Traffic Police said in a tweet. The Delhi police has also imposed section 144 CrPC as a precautionary measure in the flood-prone areas in Delhi.

Blame games: People in knee-deep trouble

Political blame games have erupted between the ruling party Aam Aadmi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party amidst people are in knee-deep trouble in flood-like situations.

BJP’s IT cell head Amit Malviya said that Arvind Kejriwal is responsible for Delhi floods and Yamuna inundating streets of Delhi and adjoining areas. He added, “Despite several promises to clean the Yamuna, no dredging has been done ever since Kejriwal came to power. Sewer lines have not been desilted for the last 8 years. Even this year, drains that were to be desilted till 15th June, have not been cleared. There is no drainage plan for the city.”

AAP leader and PWD Minister Atishi Marlena tweeted, “Ecosystems are not divided by political boundaries. Not just north India, the whole world is witnessing large-scale climatic catastrophes. The amount of rainfall this year in Delhi, Himachal, Haryana etc. is unprecedented by far. And this is exactly why the Yamuna is flooding, as one common river basin that goes through several states.”

BJP leader Manoj Tiwari said of the flood situation: “I had been constantly alerting (the government) over this (flood) threat. But the Arvind Kejriwal government didn’t wake up.”

The Congress attacked the AAP government in Delhi over the flood-like situation, describing it as a “man-made crisis” and not a natural disaster. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate told news agency PTI, “The government needs to step in. It has happened because of a man-made crisis, this is not a natural disaster. Drains are not clear, water bodies have been taken over, (there is) illegal occupation of land…”

“Where is the Delhi chief minister? Looks like he said it seriously that he would make Delhi (a) land of lakes,” Shrinate said in a swipe at Arvind Kejriwal.

PM Modi enquires about flood from France

Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him up over the phone from France to enquire about the flood and waterlogging situation in the national capital.

“Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji called from France to enquire about the waterlogging and flood situation in Delhi and the efforts being made to deal with it,” Saxena said.

Devastating 1978 Delhi floods

The devastating Delhi flood of 1978 was a natural disaster that occurred in the national capital. In July 1978, heavy monsoon rains lashed the city, leading to massive flooding and widespread destruction. The flood was one of the worst in Delhi’s history and resulted in the loss of many lives and extensive damage to infrastructure. The then Indira Gandhi-led union government had to deploy Indian Air Force choppers to drop food packets and relief materials among the flood victims.

The 1978 flood served as a wake-up call for Delhi’s authorities, leading to a re-evaluation of the city’s drainage and flood management systems. Subsequent measures were taken to improve infrastructure, including the construction of additional stormwater drains and reservoirs. These initiatives aimed to enhance the city’s resilience to future flooding events. The 2023 Delhi flood must be taken on a serious note to refurbish the infrastructure to avert such a situation in the face of climatic challenges becoming formidable with each passing year.

-RAMAKANT CHAUDHARY

Ramakant Chaudhary works with PR Professionals as DGM-Content Development, and has worked in various editorial roles with Financial Express, Mint (Hindustan Times Group), The Times Of India, Jagran Post (Dainik Jagran Group), The Pioneer, and The Political and Business Daily. He writes on politics, government policy, economy, infrastructure, real estate, social issues, lifestyle, and health

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In his address, the Raksha Mantri described the age-old practice of Yoga as India’s greatest heritage which adds new energy to the lives of the people and connects them with one’s self & nature. “Yoga disciplines the mind and makes it healthy. It helps in performing duties efficiently. Yoga is not just a practice performed at a particular time, it is the reason behind the power & motivation to perform day-to-day tasks with efficiency and alertness. Yoga strengthens our thinking, knowledge, efficiency and dedication,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh defined Yoga as a pathway to counter various health ailments including diabetes, blood pressure, hypertension and depression as it eliminates inner conflict and stress. He threw light on the invaluable contribution of Yogasanas and Pranayama to boost immunity to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Raksha Mantri cited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014 when he called upon the international community to celebrate International Day of Yoga. He said, Yoga is the assurance of good health at zero cost. The Raksha Mantri appreciated the fact that the UNGA recognised Yoga as a practice which provides a holistic vision of health and well-being.

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard, Defence Public Sector Undertakings and all departments of MoD for participating enthusiastically in the celebrations ever since UNGA unanimously approved a resolution to observe 21st June as International Yoga Day. He appealed to the people to practice Yoga in their quest towards a happy and balanced life.

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The apex court issued the order a day after it asked the Centre whether the pending sedition cases can be kept in abeyance. The Centre on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that staying provision of the sedition law may not be a correct approach. Instead, the Centre can ask the states that only a police officer of the rank of SP or above must record in writing the reasons and compliance with the SC judgment in the Vinod Dua case before a fresh sedition case is to be lodged. There has to be a responsible officer for scrutiny and his satisfaction is subject to judicial review, solicitor general Tushar Mehta said.

No new FIRs will be filed for sedition and all pending cases will be on hold while the government reconsiders the law, the Supreme Court said, referring to petitions that challenged the law alleging its misuse in cases like in Maharashtra, where it was invoked over the chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa.

“It is clear that Centre agrees that the rigours of (sedition) are not in tune with the current situation. It will be appropriate not to use this provision of law till further re-examination is over. We hope and expect that centre and state will desist from registering any FIR under 124 A (sedition law) or initiate proceeding under the same till re-examination is over,” said Chief Justice NV Ramana.

If any fresh cases are filed, those charged can approach the court. “The Union of India is at liberty to pass directives to states to prevent misuse of the law,” the Chief Justice added.

In a sharp reaction, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said: “We respect each other, the court should respect government, legislature and the government should also respect the court. We have clear demarcation of boundary and that Lakshman Rekha should not be crossed by anybody.”

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Delhi  continued to report over 1,000 daily Covid-19 cases and recorded 1,011 fresh infections. The national capital also witnessed one coronavirus-related death, while the positivity rate has now increased to 6.42 per cent, according to the health department.

Delhi on Sunday had seen 1,083 Covid-19 cases with a positivity rate of 4.48 per cent, while on Saturday, the city had registered 1,094 coronavirus infections, the highest since February 10, with a positivity rate of 4.82 per cent.

187.95 cr vaccine doses have been administered so far under Nationwide Vaccination Drive

India’s Active caseload currently stands at 15,636

Active cases stand at 0.04%

Recovery Rate currently at 98.75%

1,970 recoveries in the last 24 hours increases Total Recoveries to 4,25,23,311

2,483 new cases recorded in the last 24 hours

Daily positivity rate (0.55%)

Weekly Positivity Rate (0.58%)

83.54 cr Total Tests conducted so far; 4,49,197 tests conducted in the last 24 hours

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