Category Archives: government

UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s Mission Shakti Empowers 1.91 Lakh Students Through Bank Visits

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Lucknow: The fifth phase of Mission Shakti for the year 2025-26, dedicated to the safety, dignity, and self-reliance of women and girls, created history on Thursday. Under the campaign inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on September 20, as many as 1.91 lakh students of classes 6 to 8 from Parishadiya schools and Kasturba Gandhi Residential Girls’ Schools visited bank branches across Uttar Pradesh.

The initiative was more than just an educational visit. It served as a strong foundation for the future economic self-reliance of young girls, where students were introduced to the nuances of banking systems, financial services, and digital banking. The primary aim of the program was to familiarize them with savings, banking processes, and digital services.

During the visits, students learned the process of opening a bank account, the use of passbooks, chequebooks, and ATM cards. They also practiced filling deposit and withdrawal slips and experienced digital tools like mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.

Focus on Savings and Investment

Special emphasis was laid on savings and investment schemes, helping students understand how small savings can lead to significant benefits in the future. Bank officials introduced them to basic investment options such as fixed deposits and recurring deposits.

Additionally, students were guided on financial security and online safety measures to conduct transactions responsibly.

Girls Show Enthusiasm and Curiosity

The visits were marked by the enthusiasm of the students, who actively interacted with bank officials. They asked questions with curiosity, which were patiently answered in simple language by the officials.

This exposure not only enriched their knowledge but also enhanced their confidence.

Key Learnings from the Visits

  • The process of opening a savings account and the required documents.
  • How to use a passbook, chequebook, and ATM card.
  • The procedure of filling deposit and withdrawal slips and the system of financial transactions.
  • Working of digital services such as mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.
  • Importance and long-term benefits of savings and investment schemes.
  • Awareness about online fraud and precautions for ATM safety.

“During the auspicious days of Navratri, the bank visits by 1.91 lakh girls should not be seen merely as an activity. It is the foundation of tomorrow’s journey of economic empowerment for women. The aim of Mission Shakti is to provide daughters not only with knowledge but also with the power of self-reliance, and this initiative is a historic step in that direction.”

— Monika Rani, Director General, School Education

https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/up-cm-yogi-adityanaths-mission-shakti-empowers-191-lakh-students-through-bank-visits

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav Says Caste Is Emotional Connect, Accuses BJP Of Fearing PDA Unity – VIDEO

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**Akhilesh Yadav Emphasizes Caste as Emotional Connect, Criticizes BJP Government in Uttar Pradesh**

*Lucknow:* Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday underscored caste as an emotional connection for backward communities, highlighting that reservation was granted on this basis. Referring to the Mandal Commission, he noted that it clearly stated backward classes are entitled to reservation due to caste-based discrimination.

Addressing a press conference at the SP office in Lucknow, Yadav criticized the Yogi Adityanath government’s recent order that caste should not be mentioned in FIRs, arrest warrants, or any official documents. He remarked, “The Harijan Act itself is based on caste. Action should be taken against those who purified houses with Ganga water because Dalits had entered them. I went to a temple where the priest allowed me, but BJP people still got the temple washed. They should explain why.”

Yadav claimed that the BJP is unsettled by the growing unity of PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) communities. “Ever since we released data on the representation of PDA in different departments, BJP has panicked and started humiliating people. Today, PDA trusts the Samajwadi Party,” he added.

Highlighting corruption, the SP president alleged that the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh has broken all records. “Even legislators are admitting on stage that there is a ten percent commission, but they do not speak further. Instead, they are distracting people with talk of cream, powder, and shampoo. We will also go to the market. The truth is that discussions are only with those making huge profits,” Yadav said.

On the occasion, Yadav welcomed several leaders into the Samajwadi Party, including Sudhir Chauhan, former MLA Chaudhary Amar Singh, Vidyasagar, and Lalji Bharti, who joined after leaving the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

Further, Yadav accused the BJP of conspiring against farmers by forcibly acquiring their land. “This government grabs land by ignoring laws, creating pressure, filing false cases, and cheating farmers. Development cannot come at the cost of injustice to farmers. When our government comes, compensation will be given by increasing the circle rate,” he declared.

Yadav’s sharp remarks come at a time when the Samajwadi Party is seeking to build momentum for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. By repeatedly invoking PDA, he is positioning himself as the political voice of backward castes, Dalits, and minorities, aiming to counter the BJP’s consolidation of upper castes and non-Yadav OBCs.

Analysts say Yadav’s emphasis on caste as an “emotional connect” signals a return to Mandal-era politics, which could energize the SP’s traditional base. His criticism of corruption and land acquisition is also aimed at appealing to farmers and small traders, sections that have shown signs of discontent with the ruling BJP.

With new leaders from the BSP joining the SP, Yadav is also attempting to broaden his party’s social coalition. The challenge, however, remains whether the SP can translate this strategy into a statewide narrative that resonates beyond its core support base.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/samajwadi-party-chief-akhilesh-yadav-says-caste-is-emotional-connect-accuses-bjp-of-fearing-pda-unity-video

NASA to stop a $500M spacecraft from crashing to Earth

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**NASA to Stop $500 Million Spacecraft from Crashing to Earth**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 25, 2025, 11:03 AM*

NASA has awarded a $30 million contract to Katalyst Space Technologies, an Arizona-based startup, to prevent the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (also known as SWIFT) from falling back into Earth’s atmosphere.

The $500 million spacecraft, which has been studying distant galaxies and black holes since 2004, is currently in low-Earth orbit. However, its orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag, putting it at risk of burning up upon re-entry. NASA estimates there is a 90% chance SWIFT will disintegrate in Earth’s atmosphere by late 2026 if no action is taken.

### Mission Details

Katalyst Space Technologies plans to launch a modified version of its “Link” spacecraft to rendezvous with the observatory and push it into a higher orbit. This mission serves as a critical test of space-docking technology, which has important implications for military operations and satellite maintenance.

Notably, SWIFT does not have an onboard propulsion system or attachment points for docking. To overcome this, Katalyst’s Link craft will feature a tailored robotic mechanism designed to pinch small metal rims on the observatory, securing a firm grip for the orbital boost.

### Service Strategy

Originally, Link was intended for an internal demonstration mission. However, after studying detailed designs of SWIFT, Katalyst will modify the spacecraft starting next month, aiming for a launch in May 2026.

Once in orbit near the observatory, Link will engage its robotic arm to attach to SWIFT and execute the maneuver that will extend the telescope’s operational life.

### Military Implications

The mission also carries significant military interest. Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee told Reuters that the success of this operation will demonstrate that any satellite can be serviced, even those lacking a launch adapter ring.

The Pentagon is closely monitoring the mission’s progress. Lee expressed hopes to collaborate with the U.S. Space Command on additional orbital maneuvering capabilities. This highlights the growing strategic importance of space-docking technologies amid escalating geopolitical competition, especially between the United States and China.

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This innovative mission not only aims to save a valuable scientific asset but also marks a milestone in satellite servicing and space technology with broad civilian and defense applications.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/nasa-enlists-start-up-to-rescue-500m-spacecraft-in-orbit/story

Ukraine restores diplomatic relations with Syria, Zelensky says

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**Ukraine Restores Diplomatic Relations with Syria, President Zelensky Announces**

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Syria.

In 2022, Ukraine severed ties with Syria after the ousted Syrian leader, Bashar al-Assad’s government, recognized large areas of Russian-occupied Ukraine as “independent” regions backed by Russia. This recognition led to a significant diplomatic rift between the two countries.

President Zelensky made the announcement during a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, Italy, on July 9, 2025.

The restoration of diplomatic relations marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy amid ongoing regional tensions. Further details on the implications of this decision are expected in the coming days.
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868489

Mumbai News: Andheri Resident Alleges Housing Society Failed To Refund ₹3.09 Lakh Despite Deputy Registrar Orders

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**Resident Alleges Housing Society’s Non-Compliance Over Rs 3.09 Lakh Refund**

A 62-year-old resident of Metropolis CHS, Four Bungalows, Andheri (West), has raised concerns that his housing society has failed to comply with orders directing it to refund or adjust a pending amount of Rs 3.09 lakh in his favour.

**Complaint by Resident**

Ashwin Chaudhary, a cybersecurity professional and owner of flat C-101 in Metropolis CHS, filed a complaint alleging that despite orders issued in March this year, the society has neither refunded the money nor adjusted it against his monthly expenses such as maintenance charges, property tax, and utility bills.

**Background of the Case**

Citing a Bombay High Court order dated June 14, 2017, Chaudhary explained that the court had directed the society to refund amounts collected from members by the builder, HDIL.

Following this, the society issued him a credit note for Rs 3.63 lakh in August 2018 and then a cheque for Rs 3.09 lakh in January 2019. However, the cheque was dishonoured due to a signature mismatch.

Subsequently, the deputy registrar instructed the society to adjust the amount against Chaudhary’s pending dues.

**Allegations of Non-Compliance**

“Despite several reminders and repeated emails since 2021, the society has refused to comply. Instead, they blocked my family’s access to the gym, swimming pool, and other amenities, labelling me a defaulter,” Chaudhary alleged.

He further added that the society was ordered to credit his account and remove the 21% interest and GST charges that had been wrongly applied.

**Society’s Response**

When contacted, society chairman Kamal Duggar acknowledged the matter but stated that the society currently has no funds to pay Chaudhary or others.

He admitted that the issue dates back to 2017–18 when the society’s accounts were operated through Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank, which later collapsed in 2020.

“Our society lost nearly Rs 15 crore in the PMC Bank crisis, including funds belonging to 161 members. Given the situation, the new administration decided to grant a rebate of Rs 1,500 per month on maintenance charges to affected members,” Duggar explained.

“Beyond that, we have no means to repay unless the bank releases the funds. We have also asked the authorities for guidance and are committed to abiding by their directions,” he added.

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This ongoing dispute highlights the financial challenges faced by housing societies impacted by banking failures, and the difficulties members are encountering in securing rightful refunds.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-andheri-resident-alleges-housing-society-failed-to-refund-309-lakh-despite-deputy-registrar-orders

‘Consumers Who Have Not Received GST Rate Cut Benefits Can Register Complaints On Toll-Free Number’: CBIC

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New Delhi: The government on Tuesday announced that consumers who have not received the benefits of the recent GST rate cut can register their complaints through multiple channels.

According to a FAQ released by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aggrieved customers can contact the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) via the toll-free number 1915 or through WhatsApp at 8800001915. Additionally, complaints and queries can be submitted on the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.

Effective September 22, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure was simplified into a two-tier system of 5% and 18%. The earlier rates of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% have now been merged into just two rates—5% and 18%—resulting in reduced prices for approximately 99% of daily use items.

While the anti-profiteering mechanism has yet to be enabled for complaints related to profiteering, the government has been actively monitoring prices. Several companies have voluntarily announced that they are passing on the tax cut benefits by lowering prices.

However, complaints have surfaced on social media, alleging that some businesses are not passing on the benefits of the GST rate cut to consumers.

Consumers who wish to report such issues are encouraged to use the helpline numbers or the INGRAM portal to ensure their grievances are addressed promptly.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. Nothing has changed except the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/consumers-who-have-not-received-gst-rate-cut-benefits-can-register-complaints-on-toll-free-number-cbic

‘Consumers Who Have Not Received GST Rate Cut Benefits Can Register Complaints On Toll-Free Number’: CBIC

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New Delhi: The government on Tuesday announced that consumers who have not received the benefits of the GST rate cut can register their complaints through multiple channels.

According to a FAQ released by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aggrieved customers can contact the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) via the toll-free number 1915 or through WhatsApp at 8800001915. Additionally, complaints and queries can be registered on the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.

Effective September 22, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure was simplified into a two-tier system of 5% and 18%. The previous rates of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% have been merged into these two slabs, leading to reduced prices for 99% of daily use items.

While the anti-profiteering mechanism has not yet been activated for complaints related to profiteering, the government has been closely monitoring pricing trends. Several companies have voluntarily confirmed that they are passing on the benefits of the tax cut by lowering prices.

However, complaints have started emerging on social media alleging that some businesses are not passing on the GST rate cut benefits to consumers.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. No changes have been made except to the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/consumers-who-have-not-received-gst-rate-cut-benefits-can-register-complaints-on-toll-free-number-cbic

Trump says Ukraine can win back all territory lost to Russia during war

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Trump Says Ukraine Can Win Back All Territory Lost to Russia During War

US President Donald Trump, who met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the United Nations earlier on Tuesday, has expressed his belief that Ukraine can regain all the territory lost to Russia during the ongoing conflict.

Previously, Trump had suggested that both Kyiv and Moscow might need to cede land in order to bring an end to the war. However, his recent comments indicate a more optimistic view regarding Ukraine’s chances of reclaiming its territories.

The two leaders met during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where discussions on the war and its ramifications were a central focus.

Photo credit: REUTERS/Al Drago

https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868434

EU’s von der Leyen says she wants Europe to stop buying Russian oil by end of year

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**EU’s Von der Leyen Says Europe Aims to Stop Buying Russian Oil by End of Year**

In her recent address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that Europe intends to cease purchasing Russian oil by the end of the year. This move comes as part of the EU’s broader response to the Kremlin’s incursions.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump responded to the situation by stating that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter NATO airspace, highlighting the heightened tensions in the region.

During her speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on September 10, 2025, von der Leyen received applause for her firm stance and clear outline of Europe’s energy and security policies moving forward.

*Photo credit: YVES HERMAN/REUTERS*
https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868431

Bihar elections 2025: AIMIM leader Owaisi to launch Seemanchal Nyay Yatra

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Bihar elections are just around the corner, with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) striving to maintain its lead over the opposition. At the same time, the INDIA bloc appears to be adopting a progressive approach to contesting the assembly elections in Bihar.

As reported by news agency PTI, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi is set to kickstart the Bihar Assembly elections campaign with the “Seemanchal Nyay Yatra” from September 24 to September 27 in the Seemanchal region of Bihar. During the yatra, Owaisi will conduct roadshows and corner meetings across various assembly constituencies in Seemanchal, according to an official release by AIMIM.

The Hyderabad MP will launch the Seemanchal Nyay Yatra from Kishanganj, aiming to unite the people for development and to demand justice for the Seemanchal region. AIMIM’s official statement highlighted Owaisi’s focus on the region’s backwardness. He has also introduced a private members’ bill in the Lok Sabha, calling for the establishment of a ‘Seemanchal Region Development Council’ under Article 371 of the Constitution to address regional underdevelopment, as cited by PTI.

In the previous 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, AIMIM contested 25 assembly constituencies and won five seats, all located in the Seemanchal region. With the upcoming elections expected to be more challenging for every party, AIMIM is likely to contest more seats this time. Reports suggest that many influential political leaders and social workers are keen to contest elections on AIMIM tickets.

Meanwhile, the Congress party is also strategizing to strengthen its foothold in Bihar. On Monday, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) announced that Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and other prominent leaders will attend its working committee meeting in Patna on Wednesday, September 24.

AICC Bihar in-charge Krishna Allavaru stated that the meeting is scheduled in Bihar due to the state’s significance as the site of the “second war of independence.” He further confirmed that the INDIA bloc’s Chief Ministerial candidate for Bihar will be RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, with the Congress officially endorsing the decision, according to PTI.

With parties gearing up for a fiercely contested election, the political landscape in Bihar promises to be dynamic and closely watched.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/bihar-elections-2025-aimim-leader-owaisi-to-launch-seemanchal-nyay-yatra-23595419