Prime Minister's bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping

 Prime Minister's Office//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted On: 31 AUG 2025 at 1:58 PM by PIB Delhi

Both leaders welcomed the positive momentum and steady progress 

PM meeting with the President of China, Mr. Xi Jinping in Tianjin, China

New Delhi: 31 August 2025: (PIB Delhi//The Spis News)::

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met with Mr. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, on the sidelines of the Summit of the leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Tianjin on 31 August 2025.

Both leaders welcomed the positive momentum and steady progress in bilateral relations since their last meeting in Kazan in October 2024. They reaffirmed that the two countries were development partners and not rivals, and that their differences should not turn into disputes. A stable relationship and cooperation between India and China and their 2.8 billion peoples on the basis of mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity are necessary for the growth and development of the two countries, as well as for a multipolar world and a multi-polar Asia befitting the trends of the 21st century.

Prime Minister underlined the importance of peace and tranquility on the border areas for continued development of bilateral relations. The two leaders noted with satisfaction the successful disengagement last year and the maintenance of peace and tranquility along the border areas since then. They expressed commitment to a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question proceeding from the political perspective of their overall bilateral relations and the long-term interests of the two peoples. They recognized the important decisions taken by the two Special Representatives in their Talks earlier this month, and agreed to further support their efforts.

The two leaders noted the need to strengthen people-to-people ties through direct flights and visa facilitation, building on the resumption of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and tourist visa. On economic and trade relations, they recognized the role of their two economies to stabilize world trade. They underlined the need to proceed from a political and strategic direction to expand bilateral trade and investment ties and reduce trade deficit.

Prime Minister noted that India and China both pursue strategic autonomy, and their relations should not be seen through a third country lens. The two leaders deemed it necessary to expand common ground on bilateral, regional, and global issues and challenges, like terrorism and fair trade in multilateral platforms.

Prime Minister expressed support for China's Presidency of the SCO and the Summit in Tianjin. He also invited President Xi to the BRICS Summit that India will be hosting in 2026. President Xi thanked Prime Minister for the invitation and offered China's support to India's BRICS Presidency.

Prime Minister also had a meeting with Mr. Cai Qi, Member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China. Prime Minister shared with Mr. Cai his vision for bilateral relations and sought his support to realize the vision of the two leaders. Mr. Cai reiterated the Chinese side's desire to expand bilateral exchanges and further improve relations in line with the consensus reached between the two leaders.

***//MJPS/SR//(Release ID: 2162428)

OFBJP Global Meet-2014 on Monday

Sun, Jan 5, 2014 at 2:16 PM
A special event by BJP on 6 Jan--S S Grewal
Chandigarh, 5 January 2014: (Rector Kathuria//The Spis News):

Host Vijay jolly Delhi and Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal Pb.

BJP party is hosting NRI Sammelan by Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) for the first time, organizing “OFBJP Global Meet - 2014” on Monday 6th Jan 2014 from 10.30 AM to 6.00 PM at BJP Central Office Auditorium, 11 Ashok Road, New Delhi. In a press statement here today, National BJP Leader Advocate, Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal said that all preparations have been completed for this mega event by Vijay Jolly National Convenor, Dr. Rajni Sarin, Amit Thaker Co-Convenor and Raj K Purohit Coordinator Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and their whole team with a view to resolve the grievances of Indian Diaspora. Grewal stated that the Registration will be started at 9.30 AM and onwards ant the first session will be Conducted by Shri. Amit Thakar Co-Convenor. He said that at from 10: 30 AM to 11:15 AM Inaugural address by our BJP Hon'ble National President Shri Rajnath Singh ji. He said that from 11: 15 AM to 11: 35 AM Speech by Honored Guest Shri. Mahendra Chaudhary (Former Prime Minister of Fiji) & Honouring Lord Raj Loomba, CBE (Chairman Loomba Foudantion, United Kingdom ). Grewal stated that in Second session 11: 45 PM to 12: 00 PM the OFBJP Video Film "Bhajpa Ke Sadhe Kadam" Shall be Screened at that time. He said that from 12: 00 PM to 01: 00 PM session will be Conducted by Dr. Rajni Sarin, Co-Convenor "Introduction by OFBJP units" In the Presence of Hon'ble Shri Rajnath Singh & Hon'ble Shri Ram Lal ji National General Secretary Organisation. He said that the Lunch will be at 01.00 PM to 02: 00PM. Grewal stated that the third Session will be Conduct by Shri. Vijay Mehta OFBJP Central Committee Member on Indian Foreign Policy & its Directions. He said that from 02: 00 PM to 02: 30 PM Shri Jaswant Singh Senior Member of Parliament will adress the house. He stated that the fourth Session will be Conduct by Shri. Manjeet Lochav,  OFBJP Central Committee Member on India's Economic Policy. Grewal stated that at 02: 30 PM to 03.00 PM Hon'ble Shri. Arun Jaitiey Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha will Launch Global OFBJP Website compiled by Ritu Rathore. He said that the Cultural session will be Conducted by Shri Gajendra Solanki, Eminent Indian Poet. In this session Special Guest of Honor will be Shri. Venkaiyah Naidu Senior BJP Leader and will release Compilation of Veer-Ras Poem CD. He stated that the fifth joint session from 04: 00 PM to 04: 15 PM will be Conduct by Dr. Abhilasha Sharma OFBJP Central Committee Member. 

In this session the Role of Good Governance will be adress by Hon'ble Shri Nitin Gadkari Former National President BJP. Grewal stated that from 04: 20 PM to 04: 35 PM session will be Conduct by Shri. Bhupendra Kansal OFBJP Central Committee Member . He said in this session Hon'ble Shri Ram Lal ji BJP National General Secretary Organisation adress on BJP & its Ideological Commitments. He said that the Closing Session will be Conduct by Shri. Raj K Purohit, OFBJP Coordinator. He said that from 05: 15 PMto 05: 30 PM Video address by Shri. Narendra Modi, BJP PM Nominee and from 05: 30 PM to 06: 00 PM the Valedictory Address by Hon'ble Shri L.K. Advani ji Senior Leader of BJP. Grewal said that from the OFBJP dinner reception will also at 6th Jan 2014 from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm at Russian Center of Science & Culture, 24 Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi-1. He said that large number of NRI's will attend our BJP Party's NRI Sammelan from the world.

General strike on 20th and 21st Feb. 2013

 In support of the 10 point Charter of Demands

On the call given by United Forum of Bank Unions, officers and employees in all the public sector banks are observing 2 days nationwide continuous general strike on 20th and 21st Feb. 2013 alongwith Central trade unions in our country to protest against the Central Government’s anti-people, anti-labour and the pro-corporate neo-liberal economic policies on the following demands:-

• In support of the 10 point Charter of Demands of Central Trade Unions.
• Control alarming price rise
• Stop anti-labour policies and Hands off trade union rights
• Stop Banking Reforms
• Stop Outsourcing
• Early wage revision
• Settle pending issues like compassionate appointment scheme                                   

United Forum of Bank Unions hold a massive rally in front of Canara Bank, Bharat Nagar Chowk, Ludhiana.  Com. Sudesh Kumar, Chairman, Punjab Bank Employees Federation,  Com. Naresh Gaur, Convener, United Forum of Bank Unions, Com. Ashok Awasthy (PBEF), Com. Gulshan Chauhan, Com. Rakesh Khanna, Com. Baljinder Singh, Com. J.P.Kalra (All India Bank Officers’ Confederation), Com. D.C.Landra (NCBE),   Com. K.S.Sandhu, Com. Gurbachan Singh (AIBOA) and Com. D.P.Maur General Secretary, Joint Council of Trade Unions addressed the bank employees.

While addressing the bank employees, leaders of the United Forum said that the historic unity of the trade unions on the same platform has opened up new possibility of developing resistance against the attack unleashed by Government and the corporate. The sky high inflation of food prices and stagnation of the economy are the characteristics of the crisis that has engulfed the nation. The Government has no policy to curb the price and contain the recession of the economy, mitigate poverty and job loss. In the race to implement banking reforms, there is grim all around politically and economically. The Government has no policy to face the challenge. It seeks to throw all the burden of the crisis on the common people. Turning its back to the national interest, the government is initiating steps one after another which is inflaming inflation and accentuating economic stagnation. The Government is recklessly increasing the price of all the commodities that is so urgently necessary for daily life. It is not the organized workers in the industrial sector who are grossly affected; it is the contract workers, informal and casual labour which is the worst victim. While the industrial workers who are organized are sure to be denied of the legitimate rights, increase in bonus and wages, the unorganized sector will be more rudely affected through job loss, wage cut and on payment of  minimum wage and denial of statutory dues.   

Banking sector is no exception. Attempts are on to reduce and dilute the Government’s equity capital in Public Sector Banks. Attempts are equally on to boost private capital in the equity of our PSBs. For public sector banks, the Government talks of mergers and consolidation to shrink the scope of social banking. But in the same breath, the Government wants to encourage and expand private sector banking. New Licenses are sought to be given to industrial houses to start their own private Banks. This is the double standard of the Government. Banking Laws are amended to convert bad loans of corporate houses as investments in the equity capital of the very same defaulters. Huge loans are being written off to favour the rich borrowers. Rural branches are sought to be closed down and rural banking is being given to private outsourced Business Correspondents. Priority Sector loan targets are not being reached by many Banks. Corporate loans are increasing. Banks are appearing to draft from the goals and objectives of bank nationalization. In one word, the clock is sought to be reversed. 

Banking industry is one of the potential employment generating agencies in our country. But in the last 20 years, recruitments were virtually banned and after our struggle, some recruitments are taking place recently. But this is totally inadequate. Bank’s business has increased manifold. More and more services have been undertaken but matching recruitments are not taking place. In the next few years, large scale retirements will take place and hence further recruitment is needed. But  Banks  are trying to outsource the regular and permanent jobs to contract employees. This will reduce the scope for permanent jobs and affect the job security. This will also result in exploitation of unemployed youth. We oppose outsourcing of permanent jobs and demanding adequate recruitments and revival of BSRBs for recruitment of bank staff.  

Various important issues raised by UFBU still remain unresolved such as issues like compassionate appointment, revised housing loan scheme to bank employees, improvements in pension scheme, proper implementation of settlement, denial of pension option to persons opted under VRS and those resigned their jobs for want of VRS, defined and regulated working hours, 5 day banking etc; which are pending for resolution for a long time.  
  
Leaders of the United Forum further said that “Hit out those who have hit the people”. Mount counter-offensive to stall the atrocity of the Government. It is the right moment to make a mass intervention. Indignation against the government is brewing. The spontaneous outburst of anger is taking place everywhere. The people boiling in the fire of inflation came on the roads to paralyze the government and all its apparatus to demonstrate the strength of the masses opposed to the government policies. The country came to a halt. Working class people  withdrew from all the work places. Banking industry came to a grinding halt. The government must be paralyzed. This is the only way to resist the aggression of the Government and win the demands for the benefit of the people. The strength of unity that provides an opportunity must be utilized to covert the crisis into a new wave of resistance.
--Naresh Gaur   2 days nationwide continuous general strike 
Convener

Peoples opposed FDI in banks, LIC and retail

Wed, Feb 20, 2013 at 4:30 PM
The protestors included large number of women

Peoples power at Ludhiana.....................................Photo by Rector Kathuria

Ludhiana(Rector Kathuria); On a call given by the 11 Central Trade Unions and various independent federations, unions and associations, the workers affiliated to the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), INTUC, BMS, CTU, TUCC and CITU observed strike today in their respective industries and other institutions. Thereafter they gathered at Bus stand and organized a massive protest rally in support of their demands. The unions of workers of Punjab Roadways and PRTC  had already struck work and so there was a total Chakka Jam at the bus stand since 12.00 midnight.
The protestors included large number of women, construction workers, industrial workers, Public health workers,  contractual workers, Corporation workers, University employees, private hospital employees, roadways  and others sections of workers and employees. Todays’s protesat rally  was presided over by Com Om Parkash Mehta - AITUC, Com Jatinder Pal Singh of CITU and  Shri Swaran Singh of INTUC, Com Paramjeet Singh of CTU, Sh Nageshwar Singh of BMS, Shri Sham Narain Yadav of TUCC . Speaking on the occasion state leaders Com Bant Brar – General Secretary AITUC Punjab, Com Raghunath Singh, General Secretary of CITU Punjab,  Com Paramjeet Singh of CTU, Sh. Swaran Singh- President INTUC Punjab, Hari singh Sahni-TUCC  demanded minimum wages to be fixed by the Punjab Govt. @ for unskilled workers Rs 10,000, Semi Skilled 15,000, Skilled workers 20,000 per month, end to contractual and out sourcing and filling up of all govt. and semi govt. posts on regular basis, to disband the new pension policy effective from 1.1.2004 and implement the same old pension scheme on all employees.  They cited low wages in the state as major reason for the shortage of labour in the state. They demanded all anti worker acts recently promulgated by the Punjab government to be withdrawn with immediate effect. The speakers said that the labour laws in the state are being flouted by both public and private sector with impunity. The contractual workers in both the sectors be regularized hence forth.  These must be implemented in letter and spirit. They deplored that under the process of so called globalization and privatization at the diktat of the world bank and International Monetary Fund ,  the economic policies of both central and state governments there has been accumulation of wealth in the hands of a few, while vast majority is suffering under acute poverty and unemployment. Latest reports have indicated that 100 top rich families in India own assets to the tune of 16 lakh crores of rupees where as 70% are forced to live on meager spending of Rs. 16.60  per day.  Speaking on the occasion Com. Tarsem Jodhan, Com D P Maur, Com Ram Lal, Jagdish Chand and Gurjeet Singh Jagpal, Gulzar Singh Gorea opposed FDI in banks, LIC and retail as this will hit the job situation hard for the employees and also the production in the small scale sector. They also demanded  regular jobs and equal wages for ASHA, Aanganwadi and mid day meal workers. They warned that if the govt. does not change its economic policies benefitting the rich and the corporate sector, then more militant agitations   are on the anvil. Others who addressed include Com Bhagirath Paliwal, Suresh Sood, Gurnam Gill, Laddoo shah, Haniuman Prasad Dubey, Samar Bahadur, Gurnam Sidhu, Kameshwar Yadav, Sarbjit Singh Sarhali, Manjeet Singh Buta, Charan Dass, Amarnath Kumkalan, S K Tiwari and Rajesh Kumar Sharma

100th Session of Indian Science Congress

The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Governor of West Bengal, Shri M.K. Narayanan, the Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri S. Jaipal Reddy and the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Kumari Mamata Banerjee at the inauguration of the 100th Session of Indian Science Congress, in Kolkata on January 03, 2013.   (PIB)                                          03-January-2013

A time for action-says letter from Namita Bhandare

Sun, Dec 30, 2012 at 12:43 PM
We have a long fight ahead. But we will win

Photo courtesy Facebook

Dear Rector,
Yesterday was a sad day as we woke up to the heartbreaking news of the death of the 23-year-old medical student who was subject to a brutal gang rape, beaten and then dumped on the road on the night of December 16. 
Today, we share the same feelings of sorrow, hopelessness, anger and frustration. Yet, I believe that while this is a time for grief, this is also a time for action. This is a time to say: enough. 
Our petition has gathered over 88,000 signatures. It is important to make every voice count and to send a strong message that we will not continue to tolerate sexual violence against women. 
Tomorrow, at 10 am, I am going to the office of Justice J.S. Verma who is the head of a three-person committee that will submit its findings and recommendations on issues of safety of women. I will be submitting our petition with all the signatures (yes, all 2,700+ pages!). 

It is important to keep this campaign going. I am writing to you once again to request you to sign this petition and forward this email to your friends and family.

The Justice Verma Commission is accepting submissions until January 5. We don't have a lot of time. If you would like to make additional suggestions, please leave a comment as 'reasons for signing this petition'. I will be collecting all the comments and submitting them to the committee.

We have a long fight ahead. But we will win. 

With warm regards,

Namita Bhandare via Change.org
A letter from Namita Bhandare 
PS:  Help us reach out to more people by forwarding this email to your friends or share it on Twitter and Facebook.

The Children of Troumaron

Press conference by Director of the Film "The Children of Troumaron”, Harrikrishna Anenden, at the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2012), in Panaji, Goa on November 25, 2012.   (PIB)
26-November-2012

Manpreet Singh Badal announces party set-up

*Birdavinder appointed Chief Spokesman
*Bhagwant Mann will be YPP President

 Chandigarh: People’s Party of Punjab president  S. Manpreet Singh Badal has today announced his Party’s set-up. At the State level S.Birdavinder Singh Ex-Deputy Speaker Punjab  has been appointed Chief spokesman , Sh. Bhagwant Maan has been appointed President of the YPP ( Youth People’s Party)  while S. Yadwinder Singh Bhutter and S.Davinderjit Singh Dhose will be Vice-President of YPP.  Ex Senior additional advocate general Sh. S.S.Bhinder will head Legal Wing and Sh. Kuldeedp Singh Dhose will be President of the Kissan Wing.  Mrs. Ranjit Kaur Bhatti will head the Women Wing of the Party. In a press statement issued today by the Party’s Press Secretary S. Arunjot Singh Sodhi, Dr. Navjot Singh Dahiya has been made President of the Medico Wing and S. Nirmaljeet Singh Nimma, Ex-MLA is the head of SC/ST Wing. Sh. Sitar Bhatti will head Minorities’ Wing and Col. Surjeet Singh Firochechi will be President of Ex-Servicemen Wing. S. Amanpreet Singh Chhina will head NRI Wing and Sh. Vibhor Garg will be the President of the Parwassi Mazdoor Wing. Sh. Satpal Adampur, IRS (Retd.) will be the President of Retired Officers &Employees Wing of the Party.  
According to press statement S. Manmohan Singh Gumtala will be District president of Shri Amritsar Sahib , Kulwant Singh Lohgarh Barnala, Sukhdev Singh Chahal Bathinda, Pardeep Singh Sibiya Faridhkot, Jagmeet Singh Sahota ‘Bawa’ Fatehgarh Sahib,Sukhpreet Singh Randhawa Fazilka, Jai Jeet Singh Johal Ferozpur, Hardyal Singh Gajnipur Gurdaspur, Bhupinder Singh Pappu Azrram Hoshiarpur,Dr Navjot Singh Dahiya Jallandhar Urban, Baba Rajinder Singh Johal Jallandhar Rural,Kuldeep Singh Cheema Kapurthala, Er. Jagdeep Singh Jagraon Ludhiana Rural, Munish Gupta Ludhiana Urban, Dr Ranider Singh Bhana Moga,Jagjit Singh Honey Fattanwala Mukatsar, Dr Jaspal Singh Bhinder Pathankot, Avtar Singh Harpalpur Patiala Rural, Joga Singh Chaparr Patiala Urban, Balwant Singh Gill Ropar, Harmanjit Singh Dicky Sangrur and Vijaypal Chaudhary will be district president of Shri Tarn Taran Sahib.District presidents of Mohali , Mansa & SBS Nagar will be announced later. First meeting of all State and District presidents will be on 10th May at Chandigarh said Sodhi.

PM's address for NCTC Meeting

The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh addressed the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) meeting in Delhi 
Following is the text of Prime Minister’s address:

“I welcome you to this very important meeting on the very important issue of operationalising the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).


As all of you know, we had initially intended to discuss this issue in the Chief Ministers' Conference on Internal Security held on 16th April, 2012. But in view of the importance of the matter and concerns raised by some Chief Ministers, we have decided to have a meeting exclusively on this important subject. It’s my sincere hope that as a result of your deliberations today, we will make further progress in improving our counter-terrorism architecture and our operational and institutional capabilities to deal with this menace. I also hope that today's discussions will take place in a spirit of harmony and cooperation, which are essential in tackling the challenge of terrorism.


I would like to reiterate what I have said before. It is not our Government's intention in any way to affect the distribution of powers between the States and the Union that our Constitution provides. The establishment of the NCTC is not a State versus Centre issue. The primary purpose behind setting up the NCTC is to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts throughout this vast country, as the Intelligence Bureau has been doing so far. The NCTC should be a vehicle of our combined efforts to reach the shared goal of curbing terrorism and eradicating militancy.


Terrorism is today one of the most potent threats to our national security. There can be no disagreement on putting in place an effective counter terrorism regime with efficient mechanisms and response systems both at the national level and at the State level. Neither the states nor the Centre can fulfill this task alone. The closest cooperation and coordination is therefore necessary to meet the threats that emanate from within and outside our borders.


I believe that it is the responsibility of the Centre to give form and shape to a cohesive national approach and strategy based on information gathered globally and from all the states of our Union. On their part, the states should use their expertise, knowledge and machinery to secure their own territories and work in coordination with the Centre and other States.

Since 26/11, we have diligently strengthened our counter terrorism capabilities both in the States and at the Centre. I believe that today the State and Central Police and intelligence agencies are working in harmony and in close coordination. These efforts have resulted in several noteworthy successes. The State Police forces have achieved some excellent results in the recent past. On the whole there is broad agreement on the strategy and measures that we must adopt to counter terrorism in all its multifarious dimensions in India, including cross-border terrorism, Left Wing Extremism, terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, insurgency in the North-East and religion based terrorism. However, much remains to be done.


Our government remains committed to working with the State governments and providing them all possible help in combating terrorism. We have been providing financial assistance to the States and helping them train State police and intelligence agencies. We are also implementing schemes on border management and on coastal security, and the scheme for modernization of state police forces. Our government will continue and strengthen these efforts.


The antecedents of the NCTC lie in the recommendations by a Group of Ministers and by the Administrative Reforms Commission, commencing from the lessons learnt in Kargil. It is our belief that the NCTC, in its design and its operational aspects, will supplement the counter-terrorism capabilities of the States and not supplant them. The NCTC mechanism will give each state agency an ability to see the bigger picture of terrorist threats and thus would enhance their counter terrorism capability and access to resources to tackle them.


But for the NCTC to function smoothly and effectively, it is very important that we have a fairly broad consensus on its powers and its functions. We would like the State governments to be with us in this important initiative, which we believe would strengthen our counter-terrorism efforts. We remain open to the suggestions of Chief Ministers. We would like to benefit from their vast knowledge, wisdom and experience.


In preparation for our discussions, the Ministry of Home Affairs has circulated drafts for the Standard Operating Procedures for the Standing Council and for the exercise of operational powers under section 43 A of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Both drafts reflect the detailed provisions for Centre-State coordination in both the organizational set-up of NCTC and in its proposed powers and functions.
With these words, I wish you success in your deliberations and I look forward to an open discussion today. May today's deliberations enable us to continue working together to put in place even more effective counter-terrorism architecture in our country. (PIB) 05-May-2012 11:52 IST


*****

Failure to admit 1400 students in class VI

HC seeks reply from Delhi Govt.

A Delhi High Court Bench headed by the Acting Chief Justice Shri  A.K.Sikri has today issued notice to Delhi Government seeking reply by 01 May 2012 on a petition by the Social Jurist, A Civil Rights Group through Advocate Ashok Agarwal  that highlighted the fact that Delhi Government have again not started the process of admission of as many as 1400 students in Class VI in its 17 Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalayas (RPVVs) in the current academic year 2012-13, though the academic year has already started from 1st April, 2012.
Petition says that the Government appears to be adamant to not to start the process of admission in Class VI in the academic year 2012-13. The Government are not justified in withholding the process of admission in Class VI in RPVVs. This inaction on the part of the Government  is no less a criminal negligence as much as the same would result in non-utilisation of both physical and academic infrastructure available for the quality education of such students in these  Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalayas (RPVVs).  On the other hand, the ordinary Government Schools are not only over crowded but also sans quality physical and academic infrastructure.

“This inaction on the part of the Government is in violation of the fundamental rights of the school aged students as guaranteed to them under Articles 14 (right to equality), 21(right to life with dignity), 21-A right to quality education) and 38 (right to social justice) of the Constitution of India read with the provisions of Right of Children to Free & Compulsory Education Act, 2009”, submitted Ashok Agarwal.

Next date of hearing is 01 May 2012.

Reservation within Reservation

Court's query  25% DG and EVS quota 
Union HRD Ministery seeks more time to answer 
New Delhi, 24 April 2012:Union Human Resource Development Ministry today sought more time to file its response to the query raised by the High Court as to whether Kendriya Vidyalayas can continue to give reservation to the extent of 22.5% for SC/ST category students thereby leaving only 2.5% seats for other disadvantaged groups as well as economically weaker sections in the matter of admissions under 25% seats reserved for the children belonging to disadvantaged group (which includes SC/ST category children ) as well as children belonging to economically weaker sections under RTE Act, 2009. The Counsels appearing for Government of India, Ministry of HRD told the Court that the reply received by them from the Ministry did not answer the query raised by the Court and therefore, they need two weeks more time to file appropriate reply.

On the last date of hearing 27.02.2012, a Division Bench of the High Court headed by the Acting Chief Justice A.K.Sikri directed the HRD Ministry to look into and examine the matter and submit their views on this aspect. The Court has passed these directions while hearing a PIL filed by the Social Jurist, A Civil Rights Group through Advocate Ashok Agarwal challenging the Validity and legality of the Guidelines of Kendriya Vidyalayas for admission to Kendriya Vidyalayas in Class-I in the academic year 2011-12 whereby the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangthan has introduced reservation within reservation in 25% reserved seats for the children belonging to disadvantaged group and economically weaker section under Section 12(1)( c ) of the Rights of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. “Such a reservation within reservation is impermissible in law,” argued Ashok Agarwal.

The Court while granting HRD Ministry two weeks more time to file their reply adjourned the hearing to 04 July 2012. 

India launches New Generation Strategic Missile AGNI-V

AGNI-V (A-5) successfully flight tested today

India successfully flight-tested the Long Range Ballistic Missile (LRBM) Agni-V (A-5) 
from wheeler’s island, in Odisha on April 19, 2012.   (PIB photo)   19-April-2012

Setting a new milestone in the country’s Integrated Missile Development Programme, India’s maiden Long Range Ballistic Missile (LRBM) AGNI-V (A-5) was successfully flight tested today. 

The flawless auto-launch of the missile started at 08:04 hours. Piercing the thin cloud cover, the missile took off from the launch pad at Wheeler’s Island in Odisha at 08:07 hours and started rising exactly the way it was designed for. The missile, with a range of more than 5000 kms, followed the entire trajectory in copybook style perfection as the three stages of Propulsion dropped and fell at appropriate intervals into the Bay of Bengal. The three propulsion stages, developed completely indigenously by DRDO, performed exactly the way they were intended to. The indigenously developed Composite Rocket Motors performed well, signifying the country’s stride and complete self-reliance in this complex propulsion technology. 

Ships located in midrange and at the target point tracked the Vehicle and witnessed the final event. Radars and electro-optical systems along the path monitored in real time all the parameters of the Missile. 

A number of new technologies developed indigenously were successfully tested in this A-5 Mission. The redundant Navigation systems, very high accuracy Ring Laser Gyro based Inertial Navigation System (RINS) and the most modern and accurate Micro Navigation System (MINS) ensured the Missile reach the target point within few meters of accuracy. The high speed onboard computer and fault tolerant software along with robust and reliable bus guided the Missile flawlessly. 

The Vice-President Shri M. Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister Shri AK Antony and National Security Advisor (NSA) Shri Shiv Shankar Menon have hailed the launch of the Agni-V. Dr Singh and Shri Antony spoke to DRDO chief Dr VK Saraswat and Programme Director Shri Avinash Chander and greeted the DRDO Scientists on the A-5 success. Air Marshal K.J. Mathews, Commander-in-Chief, Strategic Forces Command (C-in-C, SFC), who witnessed the launch, said that the success of Agni-V is a historic event for India. Dr V.G. Sekaran, Director, Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL), Dr S.K. Chaudhari, Director, Research Centre IMARAT (RCI), Shri A.K. Chakrabarti, Director, Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Shri S.P. Dash, Director, Interim Test Range (ITR), Shri Guruprasad, Director, Research & Development Engineers (R&DE Engineers, Pune) were present during the launch operations. Shri R.K. Gupta, Project Director guided the team of Scientists and employees of DRDO during the launch activities. (PIB) 19-April-2012 16:15 IST

CPI has decided to contest the MC elections

The city unit of the Communist Party of India (CPI) has decided to contest the municipal corporation elections as a part of the Sanjha Morcha of CPI, CPI (M) and PPP. In a press release after the meeting of the city committee of CPI held under the chairmanship of Com.Gurnam Singh Sidhu, it was decided that the party will strive to cooperate and support the progressive candidates in the MC elections. The meeting expressed grave concern at the deteriorating law and order situation in the city and demanded that the police personnel engaged to provide security of the so called VIPs should be put on duty for the security of the public instead. Meeting further cautioned against the failed water samples from the nearly all the tube wells and warned that this could lead to serious illnesses in the time to come. It was demanded that the high water tanks should be utilized properly and water should be supplied after filling them rather than supplying directly from the motors. This can ease the situation of low pressure in many areas. The damaged water pipes should be replaced. Civil hospital should be upgraded to meet the needs of common man for advanced health care. Traffic situation should be properly managed through traffic education and effective  control. More and more flyovers should be built. Master plan of the city should take care of the interest of the small shopkeepers and small scale industries. Com.Ramesh Rattan – Secretary clarified that Sarabjit Lal who had won the election from Salem Tabri last time on the CPI ticket and has now joined the BJP ceased to be member of the party for over two years for his anti party activities. Com Kartar Singh Bowani – Secretary Distt. Unit, Dr Arun Mtra – Asstt. Secretary and Com Gulzar Goria gave a report of the party congress.
Com Ramesh Rattan
City Secretary CPI
Mobile: 98142 73870

Special Convocation

The President of Brazil, Ms. Dilma Rousseff and the Vice President, Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari at the Special Convocation of the University of Delhi, in New Delhi on March 28, 2012. {PIB photo} 28-March-2012

Seven Day Protest fast in Delhi

In solidarity with fasting activists in Idinthakarai

Nationwide Protests in support of Anti-Nuclear struggle in Koodankulam

March 26, New Delhi : National Alliance of People's Movements (NAPM), Coalition for Nuclear Disarmament and Peace (CNDP), Lok Rajniti Manch and Delhi Solidarity Group, is  organising a protest and fast from today 26 March 2012 till 1st April 2012, at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, in solidarity with ongoing fast by activists of the anti-nuclear movement at Idinthakarai, Tamil Nadu against the Koodankulam nuclear power plant.NAPM National Convener and noted Social activist Sandeep Pandey is sitting on a seven day fast.

In Chennai too people are fasting in support of anti-nuclear movement in Koodankulam. In Mumbai, noted film-maker Anand Patwardhan is leading a protest in front of Dadar Railway Station. 

On 27th March, 2012, one day fasts will be organised at many places in support of the local people protesting against the Koodankulam nuclear power plant. NAPM Andhra Pradesh is organising a protest demonstration and candle light vigil between 6 to 8 pm on 27th March at Ambedkar Statue, near Tankbund, Hyderabad.

It is ironical that India has raised the issue of atrocities on Tamil people in Sri Lanka at UNHRC but is not relenting its nuclear power pursuit which potentially puts its own Tamil people at grave risk of nuclear tragedy in times to come.

We strongly condemn the undemocratic manner in which nuclear energy is forced upon us. Not only Indian government has used a strong hand to snub the People’s Movement Against Nuclear Energy (PMANE) in Koodankulam, Tamil Nadu, but also is trying to intimidate and stifle resistance by misleading allegations of a ‘foreign hand’. Dr Udayakumar who leads PMANE has declared his personal assets and he has no FCRA account to receive foreign money. Whereas it is clear that Indian government is working hands-in-glove with bigger ‘foreign hands’ of USA, Russia and other countries in its joint military operations and expanding nuclear programme.

The latest attempt by the CM of Tamil Nadu to brand S.P. Udayakumar as a naxal clearly shows the desperation of the government. We condemn such underhand tactics and attempts by government to mislead general public.

It is the people in Europe and America that have forced their governments by coming out in large numbers on street to abandon nuclear energy. But Indian government is trying to stifle such people’s initiatives to have their say. Our claims of being the largest democracy prove to be hollow.

Recent nuclear emergency in Japan leaves no doubt that this world needs to renounce nuclear power for military and civil/ energy purposes, as soon as possible, to put an end to any further catastrophe in the name of 'energy', 'security' or 'technology'. Nuclear power is clearly the most dangerous options for civil or military use. Countries that have been using nuclear power such as Germany have resolved to abandon nuclear energy by 2022. Japan, USA, and many such nations who were earlier pursuing nuclear energy option are having second thoughts now.

We believe that India should adopt the futuristic energy policy like Japan and the European Union (EU) relying on renewable sources of energy which are non-polluting. Like EU and Japan, India too should aim for a low-carbon energy production system. India’s future energy policy should be low carbon and no nuclear.

We appeal to the Indian government to support dialogue on nuclear energy in a democratic way and until there is a consensus on whether India should go ahead with nuclear programme or not, should stall all nuclear programmes.

National Alliance of People's Movements, Coalition for Nuclear Disarmament and Peace, Lok Rajniti Manch and Delhi Solidarity Group.

For more details contact : P.K. Sundaram, 9810556134, Ramesh Sharma, 9818111562, Madhuresh Kumar, 9818905316 and Vijayan M J 9582862682.
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CPI, AITUC and PPP on budget

The Union Budget:A strange string of announcements: PPP
In his budget speech, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee quoted a line from William Shakespeare’s seminal play, Hamlet- The Prince of Denmark. , “ I must be cruel only to be kind,” he said, suggesting that it is time for the government to take tough actions to ensure a better future. But his actions were in dissonance to his words. The Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee was a strange string of announcements that made all the right noises about the problems faced by Indian economy, but was woefully inadequate in terms of policy measures to control these problems. Let us start from inflation. Over the past many months, almost all the top leaders of UPA government have admitted that common man deserve relief from the unconscionable levels of inflation that we have seen in the past 3-4 years. But despite this, the Finance Minister, increases the Excise duty by 2 per cent. Not only this, he extends the scope of service tax. All these enhancements are going to be passed on to the final consumer, and will fuel the inflation to further heights.  Amidst such circumstances, the minor income tax reliefs that the finance ministers seems to have offered appear to be a cruel joke.
By not controlling inflation, the government wants the common man to struggle to eke out a living, but on its own it continues to live at unconscionably high expenditure as is shown by the humungous government debt which close to 46 per cent of country’s GDP. Even when saddled with this monstrosity, there is no attempt to mend by the UPA government to mend its ways. The fiscal deficit is in excess of 5 per cent, way beyond the permissible limit of 2 per cent. Once you include the fiscal deficits of our profligate states, than we are staring at a figure that would reveal that India is on a precipice of debt disaster that can have catastrophic consequences for the economy. So basically India is facing a situation where we are saddled with the two most critical problems of a modern economy i.e. high inflation and high deficits. Add to it the political pusillanimity which has become a hallmark of the UPA government. With such a deadly cocktail in offering, it is obvious that foreign investors are not going to savour the prospect of coming to India (leave aside the Foreign Institutional Investors). With no investment coming in green field projects, I fail to see, how can the finance minister be hopeful of attaining GDP growth levels of 7.8 per cent.
Such talk is nothing but political sophistry aimed at diverting attention from government’s own inadequacies. The UPA government seems to develop cold feet on many of the initiatives it itself had pursued with great gusto initially. Mr Mukherjee’s speech today was resoundingly silent on Direct Tax Code as well as on any road map to implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Increase in disbursal of credit to agriculture is welcome but government has again been found wanting in ensuring the proper distribution of this credit. Independent researchers have shown the politicians have used this agriculture credit scheme to further their own objectives. Data shows, that the agriculture credit is disproportionately high in the constituencies of influential politicians and inadequate in areas where there is a dire need of funding.
There have been no reliefs or incentives for small scale manufacturers and even the sunrise sectors of biotech, IT, telecom and media- which have largely fuelled India’s growth in the last few years. There is in incentive for capacity expansion, which means, that fewer jobs would be created but that India’s economic growth would continue to buoyed by consumption. While consumption is an important facet of economic growth, an overlying importance of consumption instead of investment to fuel economic growth can be problematic. This problem is further exacerbated if the country is passing through a crisis of high inflation. Unfortunately, we are witnessing both consumption led growth as well as high inflation. It is staggering that the government led by an eminent economist, has chosen to do nothing about it.
This is against the interests of the workmen-AITUC
Com O P Mehta Secretary All India Trade Union Congress, Ludhiana and Com D P Maur – Secretary Joint Council of Trade Unions Ludhiana has criticized the union finance minister for decreasing the interest rate on the Employees Provident Fund from 9.5 to 8.25%. This is against the interests of the workmen who have minimum saving from this. He warned the government to revoke this decision otherwise face stiff opposition from the working people.
CPI Ludhiana unit termed the budget to be inflationary 
The Communist Party of India Distt. Ludhiana has termed the budget to be inflationary as increase in the service tax and the excise duty will lead to increase in the burden on the people. Marginal increase in the tax slab exemption is a mockery with the people as it no where meets the price rise during the last year. There is marginal increase in the health budget which will not meet the health care needs of the people as a minimum of 6% of the GDP is needed from the public spending to give basic minimum health care to all. No policy in employment generation and security of jobs has been defined. Agriculture section has not got the attention due to it. Decision to raise Rs. 30,000 crore  through disinvestment is against the interest of the nation and the working people. statement was issued by Asstt. Secretary Dr Arun Mitra and City Secretary Ramesh Rattan.                      

Annual Convocation of DD Jain Memorial College

385 Graduates were awarded the degrees

Annual Convocation of Devki Devi Jain Memorial College was held on March 10, 2012. Dr. C.S. Meena hon’ble Joint Secretary, UGC was the chief guest of the function. 375 Graduates of Arts, Commerce, Computer Applications, M.A.(History and Hindi), M.Sc.(IT) & PGDCA were awarded the degrees. 18 students made the institution proud by registering their names in the book of Roll of honour for their excellent performance in various fields. Mrs. Surinder Dua, officiating principal of the college in her annual report highlighted the achievements of the students in different fields during the session 2010-11 and appreciated the role of teachers and management in the success of the college.
Dr. C.S. Meena, in his convocation address congratulated the pass outs and wished them a bright future. He emphasized the role of education in women empowerment and advised the graduates to feel proud of whatever role they choose to play in life whether it is that of a professional or a home maker.
He further said that UGC sanctions many grants and has introduced various schemes for the benefit of women who are interested in pursuing higher studies. Dr. Amarjit singh Dua, Former Dean College Development Council GNDU, Dr. S.P. Singh Former Vice Chancellor GNDU, Ms. Param Saini, a renowned Clinical psychologist were the guests of honour. Samaj Rattan Sh. Hira Lal Jain, Chairman, Sh. Kedar Nath Jain, President, Sh. Raj Kumar Jain & Sh. Shanti Saroop Jain, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Sheetal Kumar Jain, Vice President, Sh. Bipin Jain, Secretary, Sh. Arvind Kumar Jain, Joint Secretary, Sh. Shiv Desh Bandhu Gupta, Manager (Jain Girls Sr. Sec. School), Sh. Surinder Kumar Jain, Manager (D.D. Jain Memorial College for Women), Sh. Yogesh Kumar Jain, Manager (Atam Devki Niketan), Sh. Amrit Lal Jain, Member Advisory Board, Sh. Yogeshwar Jain, Sh. Naresh Kumar Jain, Sh. Prem Kumar, Sh. Ajit Kumar Jain, Sh. Sachin Jain, Sh. Satinder Jain and other worthy members of managing committee graced the occasion with their benign presence. (Report:Rector Kathuria// Photos:Sanjay Sood)

"North East Trilogy" Released

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. M.M. Pallam Raju releasing the books "North East Trilogy", at MCEME Secunderabad on March 05, 2012. The Chief of the Army Staff, General V.K. Singh and Authors, Mrs. Dipti Bhalla and Shri Kunal Verma are also seen.  (PIB photo) 05-March-2012

We are compelled to protest on roads.

Oppose the execution awarded to Bhai Rajoana-Jagminder Singh 

I am writing to express my deep concern that it was confirmed on 13 March that India is preparing to break its moratorium on the death penalty by hanging Balwant Singh on 31 March at 9 AM in Central Jail, Patiala.

By making this announcement India is signaling to the world that when it comes to Sikh prisoners it is prepared to break the moratorium and reverse the trend to abolish the death penalty. -Jagminder Singh 

The most recent announcement also comes on the back of the pre-mature release last month of Kishori Lal, who was awarded the death penalty in the murder of three Sikhs with a chopper knife on 1 November 1984. 

We Sikhs believe Indian judiciary has adopted a double standard in delivering justice with Sikhs and other minorities in India. It’s failed to punish the chief organizers of Sikh holocaust for the last 28 years but very quick in sending the Sikhs to gallows. We are compelled to protest on roads.

Therefore to oppose the execution awarded to Bhai Balwant singh Rajoana the details are given below:-

1.         Date: -                       27-03-2012

            Venue: -                    P.S. Tilak Nagar

           Timings: -                  1800 Hrs

2.         Date: -                       28-03-2012

            Venue: -                    India gate

           Timings: -                  1400 Hrs

Ludhiana went on strike

Workers marched with flags and banners in all corners

Various sections of workers and employees of industries, Khet Mazdoors, Construction workers, Hosiery workers, Banks, LIC, BSNL, Transport, Power Sector, Anagnwadi, Asha workers and workers working in other government and semi government sectors in Ludhiana went on strike today on a call given by the All Central Trade Unions  and several National Federations of Employees for a nationwide strike on 28thFebruary 2012 against the anti people, anti workers and anti employees policies of the central and state governments. 

After stopping work in their respective organizations in all the corners of Ludhiana the workers marched with flags and banners and raising slogans of their demands and gathered outside the office of Deputy Commissioner at Mini Secretariat in a big number. 

Addressing the massive rally state leaders Com Inderjit Singh Grewal-President CTU, S. Swaran Singh–Central Committee member INTUC and Com Om Parkash Mehta-Senior Vice President AITUC said that  the call for the strike has been given to demand revision of minimum wages for the workers as Rs. 10,000-00 per month, filling up of all vacant posts on regular basis and not on contract basis, revised provident fund and bonus to all workers without any pre conditions, increase in gratuity rates, pension to all workers/employees, compulsory registration of trade unions within 45 days of filing registration papers, creation of social security fund for the workers in un organized sector as per recommendations of the permanent Parliamentary committee and implementation of labour laws as per ILO convention 87 and 98.

The speakers decried that as a result of neo liberal economic policies pursued at the diktat of World Bank, IMF and WTO our country has witnessed jobless growth as a result of which the condition of toiling masses in India has become miserable. Unprecedented rise in prices of essential commodities has led to rampant malnutrition. This has been made worse due to rise in unemployment. There is total denial of even present stipulated minimum wages not only by the private but also by the public sector units. 

Others who addressed the rally include  Comrades Dharm Paul Maur, Vijay Kumar, Kewal Krishan and  Gurnam Sidhu of AITUC, Shri Nageshwar, Gurbax Rai, Jia Lal Gautam and Bhagirath Paliwal of BMS, Comrades Jatinder Pal and Jagdish Chand, Com Tarsem Jodhan, Com Subhash Rani from CITU, Comrades Paramjit Singh, Daljeet Singh, Mohan Lal Paswan and Raja Ram of CTU, Shri Gujit Singh Jagpal, S K Tiwari, Kaur Chand and Jagmel Singh Khera of INTUC, Com Naresh Gaur- Secretary Bank Employees Federation, Com Gulzar Goria-Gen Secretary Khet Mazdoor Sabha Punjab, Com Kewal Singh Banwait and Com.Ramesh Rattan.

In their address they took a serious note of the fact that despite raising these demands by the workers for a long time, the government under the pressure of corporate sector is ignoring the demands of the workers which has led to flouting of labour laws with impunity not only by the private but also by the public sector. There is no provision for social security to the unorganized workers. Govt. has failed to curb the rising prices and solve the problem of unemployment causing serious effect on the lives of toiling masses. 

Rally expressed satisfaction that it is for the first time that all trade unions have united on one platform on these demands. The leaders warned that if even now the government does not pay heed to the demands and condition of workers, they would be forced to launch more militant struggle in future.  



BKU(Ekta) Bharti Kisan Union Ekta also staged a dharna opposite Mini Secretariat Ludhiana. Speakers raised the issues like Gobindpura and explained the anti farmer policies of Punjab Govt. Rural villages labourer Daarshan Koohli, Hardev Singh Sandhu, Mohinder Singh Seeno, Nirmal Singh Bhamaal, Baldev Singh Rasoolpur, Comrade Kuldeep Singh, Avtar Singh  Taari, Sudagar Singh Ghudani, Tarlochan Singh, Gurcharan Singh, Harbans Singh Lohat Badhi also addressed the BKU rally.   
Other unions:Harjinder Singh from Molder and Steel Workers Union, Romesh Kumar from Hosiery workers union, Malkeet singh from Mazdoor unions Khanna, Samrala area also participated with their supporters.