High Alert at Hyderabad Airport Following Threat of Flight Hijacking:
Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport was placed on high alert in response to an email threat received late Sunday evening, specifically targeting the Hyderabad – Dubai flight. As a precautionary measure, the airport authorities decided to cancel the flight and subjected it to rigorous security checks to ensure the safety of both passengers and the aircraft.
The threat email implicated an individual named Thirupathi Baadineni, carrying passport number R8124604, alleging his association with the ISI. The email warned of his intention to hijack flight AI951, destined for Dubai from Hyderabad.
Concerns were raised regarding possible assistance he might receive from others at the airport, as mentioned by Airport SI Suman Betala to Deccan Chronicle. Following comprehensive security assessments, Thirupathi Baadineni, along with two others named L Vinod Kumar and P Rakesh Kumar, were disembarked from the flight and subsequently handed over for further investigation.
High Alert at Hyderabad Airport Following Threat of Flight Hijacking
Legal action has been initiated under Sections 385 and 506 of the IPC, and an ongoing investigation is underway. The 111 passengers who were originally scheduled for the Dubai flight have been accommodated on an alternative flight, as confirmed by Airport SI Suman Betala.
Today’s CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census:
The Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting scheduled for Monday will center on two main topics: a nationwide caste census and strategies for upcoming elections. This meeting comes in the context of impending assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram. Key attendees include Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, former party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, chief ministers from Congress-ruled states, and other top party officials.
Discussions will revolve around election preparedness and narratives for the states facing upcoming polls. Additionally, the CWC will engage in extensive deliberations regarding the party’s strong advocacy for a nationwide caste census and the potential implications of this demand.
There are concerns within the Congress regarding how to articulate their call for a caste census, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the opposition party of attempting to create divisions among Hindus by advocating for the inclusion of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Today’s CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census
Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi, a regular CWC member, recently expressed concerns about Rahul Gandhi’s slogan, “jitni abaadi, utna haq” (rights proportionate to population), arguing that it could be seen as an endorsement of majoritarianism. Although Singhvi deleted his controversial post after Congress distanced itself from his remarks, there remain lingering concerns within the party about how to effectively communicate their politically sensitive stance on the caste census.
New Zealand Aims for Another Dominant Performance:
New Zealand, the runners-up of the 2019 World Cup, aims to continue their dominant streak as they face off against The Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on Monday.
The Black Caps kicked off their World Cup campaign with an impressive nine-wicket victory over defending champions England at the immense stadium in Ahmedabad last Thursday.
Although New Zealand may not be considered among the top favorites to win the tournament, their performance in the opener showcased their dominance. Devon Conway, who scored 152 off 121 balls, and Rachin Ravindra, who contributed an unbeaten 123 off 96 balls, exhibited their batting prowess.
In addition to Conway and Ravindra, the rest of the batting lineup displayed promise in their warm-up matches. New Zealand can rely on their top seven batters. In the first warm-up game, Ravindra scored 97, Daryl Mitchell played an unbeaten innings of 59, and Mark Chapman smashed 65 not out in just 41 balls, securing a victory over Pakistan. In the second warm-up match against South Africa, Conway (78), Tom Latham (52), and Glenn Phillips (43) also made valuable contributions with the bat.
Captain Kane Williamson, who recently returned from a knee injury, showcased his abilities with scores of 54 and 37 in the warm-up matches. However, he retired himself on both occasions and did not play in the opening match to focus on building his fitness. While experienced Williamson would be an asset to the Black Caps’ batting lineup, he is not fully match-fit to play against The Netherlands. Stand-in captain Latham, who led the team against England, will continue to lead the side.
The bowling department also showed promise in the first game, making New Zealand an all-round and steady team. The Black Caps can place their trust in their pacers, including veteran Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Lockie Ferguson, who was the highest wicket-taker in the last edition with 21 wickets.
On the other hand, The Netherlands boasts a strong batting lineup featuring aggressive opening pair Max O’Dowd and Vikramjit Singh, along with solid middle-order performers like skipper Scott Edwards, Logan van Beek, and Bas de Leede.
Vikramjit and de Leede both scored half-centuries in the match against Pakistan on Friday at the same venue. The Dutch bowling unit, which managed to restrict Pakistan to 286 despite their opponents scoring over 300 in warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia, presents a challenge for the Kiwi batters in Monday’s match.
Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR:
Senior BJP leader Etala Rajendar has urged the state government to reclassify the Mudiraj community from BC-D to BC-A, enabling them to access education and employment reservations. He criticized Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao for not taking action on this matter despite a significant public meeting held by the Mudiraj community in 2016.
Speaking at the ‘Mudiraj Atmagaurava Sabha’ at Parade Ground, Rajendar accused all political parties of neglecting the Mudiraj community. He pointed out that during the tenure of Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy as Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, the community was reclassified from BC-D to BC-A through a government order (GO). However, due to legal issues, this change was only in effect for a year. Rajendar noted that reservations for minorities, announced during the same period, remain in force and are protected by minority MLAs in the Supreme Court. In contrast, the Mudiraj community lacks representation, leading to the neglect of their issue.
Rajendar emphasized that the Mudiraj community constitutes 11 percent of the state’s population and called on the state government to allocate Rs 20,000 crore for their welfare. He criticized the government’s current allocation of Rs 500 crore under the BRS regime for the free distribution of fishlings and demanded monetary support instead.
Etala Rajendar also called for the Mudiraj community to have complete rights over irrigation projects and water bodies and to grant membership in fishermen societies to all Mudiraj individuals. He warned of potential actions if solar panels installed in irrigation projects adversely affect their livelihood.
Furthermore, Rajendar criticized Rao for not allocating any tickets to Mudiraj community members for the upcoming elections, despite their population share. He argued that this insulted the community and questioned why they should support a party that does not respect their representation.
Etala Rajendar expressed concerns that Rao was attempting to secure Mudiraj community votes through the free distribution of fishlings and urged the community not to fall for such tactics.
Meanwhile, Telangana Mudiraj Mahasabha president Ch Shankar Mudiraj echoed Rajendar’s sentiments, stating that the BRS government had insulted the community and attempted to diminish their self-respect. He pointed out that Mudirajs had played a significant role in bringing BRS to power in 2018 but had not received their fair share of representation.
Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR
The vice president of the organization, P. Nageswara Mudiraj, stated that thousands of people from all 119 constituencies had gathered at the Mahasabha to voice their concerns about the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi’s denial of assembly tickets to the community. He emphasized that Mudirajs represent 15 percent of the state’s population and are the largest caste among BCs, yet Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao did not give them representation in the party.
Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy:
The President of the BJP in the state, Daggubati Purandeswari, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Sunday and requested a CBI investigation into the liquor sales in Andhra Pradesh over the past four years.
During her meeting with Shah, She discussed various aspects of Andhra Pradesh affairs, with a particular focus on the liquor policy that has been in effect for the past four years. She presented a memorandum on this matter to the Home Minister.
In a recent statement to the media, she disclosed that upon examining the sales of a liquor store in Narsapur, West Godavari district, it was discovered that out of a total sales of Rs 1 lakh, only Rs 700 was made via digital payments.
Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy
She alleged that a significant portion of the daily liquor sales revenue was ending up in the hands of leaders from the ruling party. Purandeswari accused the YSRC government of embezzling public funds while claiming to provide freebies to the public.
India Ranks Fifth in Cyber Attack Targets: Microsoft Report:
In 2022, India held the unenviable position of being the country with the second-highest number of cyberattacks. However, in 2023, it has slipped to the fifth position. In contrast, Europe, responsible for 14 percent of these attacks, has surged to claim the second spot. The United States, witnessing a steady increase, now leads the chart in various cyberattack categories, as revealed in the Microsoft Digital Defence Report 2023.
The United States faces the greatest share of Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, accounting for 54 percent of all such assaults. DDoS attacks inundate targeted devices, services, and networks with fraudulent internet traffic, rendering them inaccessible or unusable for legitimate users.
According to the report, India, which reported approximately 25 percent of attacks the previous year, now registers fewer than five percent. It maintains its third position in terms of threat actors’ focus in the Asia-Pacific region, with Korea and Taiwan following closely.
In Europe, Ukraine tops the list due to Russian state actors’ activities linked to invasion. Meanwhile, Israel is the most heavily targeted country in the Middle East and North Africa, primarily due to Iran’s extensive interests in the region. North Korean and Chinese state actors have elevated South Korea and Taiwan to the first and second most targeted nations in the Asia-Pacific region.
The report also reveals North Korea’s particular interest in espionage against institutions and individuals studying North Korea itself, as well as targeting national defense industries in various countries. India accounts for seven percent of these attacks, with Russia taking the lead, closely followed by the USA and Israel. India is also among the ten Asia-Pacific nations that have refocused their attention on regulating critical infrastructure.
India Ranks Fifth in Cyber Attack Targets: Microsoft Report:
In a surprising development, North Korea is providing material support to Russia’s war in Ukraine in exchange for food. Its cyber actors are simultaneously targeting Russian nuclear energy, the defense industry, and government entities for intelligence collection.
Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme:
Midday meal workers from multiple districts staged a protest against the Chief Minister’s breakfast scheme, resorting to open cooking (“vanta varpu”) to exert pressure on authorities. They voiced their frustration over unresolved grievances, primarily focusing on the need for an increase in their honorarium due to their vital role in providing nutritious meals to schoolchildren.
Mithilamma, a spokesperson for the employees, emphasized that their honorarium had remained stagnant at Rs 1,000 for years, making it increasingly challenging to make ends meet, despite a government order (GO) in their favor. They also requested additional funds for procuring ration supplies to maintain nutritional standards while serving meals.
Facing overwork and understaffing, the workers struggled to meet the demands of preparing meals for thousands of students daily. They called on the authorities to hire more employees to ensure efficient program functioning. They insisted that the state government must address this issue before considering the breakfast scheme.
Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme
Many alleged that principals and teachers in various districts had given them a deadline to resolve the issues before the scheme’s implementation after Dasara.
The protesters hoped for support from various quarters, including TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy, who had expressed solidarity with the midday meal workers.
PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his profound dismay upon learning of the terrorist attacks in Israel. He expressed India’s unwavering solidarity with Israel during this challenging period and offered heartfelt thoughts and prayers for the innocent victims and their families.
In a statement shared on X, the Prime Minister stated, “I am deeply saddened by the reports of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the innocent victims and their families. India firmly stands with Israel during these trying times.”
Andhra Pradesh (AP) to contest Krishna water allocation in Supreme Court:
The Minister for Water Resources, Ambati Rambabu, stated on Saturday that the state government has formally requested the Central government to address the challenges it faces concerning the distribution of Krishna River water. He emphasized the government’s willingness to engage in a legal dispute regarding the allocation of Krishna water, including the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court if necessary.
During a press conference held in Vijayawada on Saturday, Minister Rambabu highlighted that Section 89 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act has already outlined the terms of reference (ToR) for the Brijesh Kumar Tribunal regarding water allocations to both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Rambabu firmly stated, “The formulation of new terms of reference is not feasible. They are deemed illegal and unacceptable. We strongly condemn these unjust and unlawful terms of reference. I want to announce that the state government has decided to take legal action on this matter.
Andhra Pradesh to contest Krishna water allocation in Supreme Court.
Despite prior letters from Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the gazette notification was published. The state government will soon file a special leave petition with the Supreme Court to challenge the new procedures established for the Brijesh Kumar Tribunal. We are resolute in pursuing this legal battle.”
Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad:
Union Minister and BJP State Chief G. Kishan Reddy will inaugurate the extension of four train services at a ceremony held at Secunderabad station. The event will feature the presence of Deputy Speaker T. Padma Rao, State Minister Mohd. Kishan Reddy had inaugurated the services.
State Ministers Mahmood Ali, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, and South Central Railway General Manager Arun Kumar Jain. They will officially launch the extension of the Hadapsar-Hyderabad Triweekly Express to Kazipet, Jaipur-Kacheguda Weekly Express to Kurnool, H.S. Nanded-Tandur Parbhani Daily Express to Raichur, and the Karimnagar-Nizamabad Daily Passenger to Bodhan. These extensions will become operational starting from October 9.
Salary hikes have been sanctioned for 418 contract and outsourcing employees working in 29 mini-gurukulams in Telangana. A Government Order (GO) was issued recently, outlining the revised remuneration structure. Under this structure, headmasters will receive a monthly salary of Rs 6,300, teachers Rs 4,500, physical education teachers (PET) Rs 3,300, accountants Rs 3,000, auxiliary nurse midwives (ANM) Rs 2,700, and Class IV employees Rs 2,250.
The Board of Intermediate Education of Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP) has initiated a campaign to distribute physical copies of intermediate certificates. Despite the availability of digital certificates online through the bieap.apcfss.in the portal, which are valid for university admissions, the department aims to streamline the process for students. Starting from October 10, students can collect their physical certificates from their respective colleges, with the board requesting parents to do so on behalf of their children. The digital 12th pass certificates, accessible on the official website (bieap.apcfss.in), have been widely accepted by universities across the region.
On Saturday, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) presented awards to 286 of its employees. This included 36 winners of the Rakhi Poornami Challenge, 30 winners of the Shravana Masam Challenge, and 180 employees declared as the zonal level best, In addition to 25 individuals recognized in the “extra mile” category, 15 were acknowledged in the logistics department. Kishan Reddy initiated the services.
Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad
The recipients spanned various roles, including drivers, conductors, mechanics, helpers, workers, supervisors, depot managers, deputy regional managers, and RMs. RTC MD V.C. Sajjanar noted that the company has undergone transformative changes over the past two years. He mentioned that the Rakhi Poornami Challenge set a record by earning Rs 22.65 crore in a single day, and the earnings during Shravana Masam exceeded those of the previous year.
Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development:
AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi, during an event in Kanker, Bastar, pledged to conduct a caste census in Chhattisgarh if the Congress retained power in the upcoming state assembly elections. She also commended Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel for fostering economic development in rural Chhattisgarh, particularly in the insurgency-affected Bastar region.
Priyanka Gandhi highlighted the findings of a caste census in Bihar, revealing that 84 percent of the population belonged to OBC, SC, and ST categories. However, she noted that these groups were not adequately represented in high-ranking positions within the Bihar administration. She emphasized the importance of conducting a similar caste census in Chhattisgarh to ensure that these communities receive their rightful representation and benefits.
The Congress leader praised Baghel’s efforts in promoting rural economic growth in the state. She mentioned initiatives such as the waiver of farmers’ crop loans and various state government schemes that had put money directly into the pockets of farmers.
Priyanka Gandhi also noted the transformation of Bastar from a region plagued by Leftwing insurgency to a thriving tourist destination. She advocated for the Chhattisgarh model of development to be replicated in other states.
Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development
Critiquing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she questioned why the Centre procured paddy from Chhattisgarh but not from Uttar Pradesh, suggesting selective policies. She accused Modi of prioritizing industrialists’ interests over the welfare of the poor and government employees.
Regarding the construction of a new parliament building, Priyanka Gandhi questioned the necessity of spending Rs 20,000 crore when the existing one was in good condition. She suggested that the new construction was driven by a desire to enhance Modi’s prestige.
Arjun Rampal Joins Nandamuri Balakrishna’s movie ‘Bhagavanth Kesari’:
National Award-winning actor Arjun Rampal is making his debut in Tollywood with the highly anticipated movie “Bhagavanth Kesari,” featuring Nandamuri Balakrishna and directed by Anil Ravipudi. The film is being produced by Shine Screens, a popular production house.
Arjun Rampal’s character, Rahul Sanghvi, is introduced in a menacing manner through a character poster. Despite his super-stylish appearance in designer clothing, Arjun Rampal exudes an intimidating aura with his serious expression. The poster also reveals the trailer’s release time, scheduled for tomorrow at 8:16 PM.
Produced by Sahu Garapati and Harish Peddi, the film stars Kajal Aggarwal as the female lead opposite Balakrishna, with Sreeleela playing a significant role. The movie features music by SS Thaman, cinematography by C Ram Prasad, Tammi Raju as the editor, and Rajeevan as the production designer. V Venkat is responsible for coordinating the action sequences.
Odia Women Seek Justice After Being Dismissed Over Unintended Gaffe:
Four middle-aged women, appearing tired and frail, are desperately seeking reinstatement in their Pachika (cook) positions in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. They lost their jobs in August after an unintentional mistake while preparing food for over 500 students at Gothagaon High School in Ganjam district, Odisha.
Their inadvertent error was placing spices, like ginger and chili meant for curry paste, into a vegetable bowl meant for grinding in a mixer-grinder. When one of the women went to the kitchen to grind the spices, the teachers discovered the bowl filled with uncooked potato slices. They accused the women of dishonestly mixing potato slices with spices to save some for personal use. Consequently, they were labeled as thieves and promptly dismissed from their jobs.
During August of this year, following the preparation of vegetables and the arrangement of all the necessities for the midday meal served to over 500 students, one of our cooks proceeded to the kitchen to grind spices for curry paste. In her haste due to a warning from the local electricity authorities of an impending power outage at 11 am, she used a vegetable bowl instead of the spice bowl.
The teachers accused her of theft and implicated us as her accomplices. We were unjustly branded as dishonest individuals and lost our jobs. Our pleas that everything we did was in the students’ best interest fell on deaf ears,” explained Bishnu Pradhan, one of the four dismissed Pachikas.
Odia Women Seek Justice After Being Dismissed Over Unintended Gaffe
The other three affected Pachikas are Juli Parida, Jayanti Biswal, and Gita Swain. A Pachika earns a meager Rs 1,400 per month, equivalent to Rs 46.66 per day. The Central government covers 60% of their remuneration, with the state government providing the remaining 40%.
Given that this employment is supported by both the Central and state governments, we have optimism that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will intervene to restore our positions,” the women implored.
In the year dedicated to millet, the GST Council has announced the exemption of millet flour from GST.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed that food preparations in powder form containing at least 70 percent millet will no longer be subjected to GST during a press conference following the GST Council meeting.
These food products must be sold without branding or in non-branded packaging.
However, branded millet products will still be subject to a 5 percent GST, according to the Finance Minister.
GST Council Aligns with “Year of the Millet,” Exempts Millet Flour from GST.
GST Council Removes Tax on Millet Flour
Previously, the GST Council’s fitment committee had recommended exempting powdered millet while denying any incentives for prepared millet-based products.
The Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society (TSCS) in Hyderabad hosted its 2nd National Conference to Combat Thalassemia at its premises in Shivrampally. The event, centered around the theme “A Journey towards Awareness, Share, Care, and Cure,” brought together experts, patients, caregivers, and medical professionals dedicated to raising awareness about thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder.
The conference emphasized the significance of awareness, sharing knowledge, providing care, and working towards a cure for thalassemia. It highlighted the importance of targeted screening, antenatal screening in women, and extended family screening for Thalassemia Major as effective control measures for the disorder. The participants called upon the government to mandate HbA2 testing during the first trimester of pregnancy for early detection and eradication of thalassemia.
Distinguished international speakers, including Dr. Dimitrios Farmakis from the University of Cyprus Medical School, Greece, and Dr. Lawrence Faulkner from the Cure2children Foundation, Italy, enriched the conference with their valuable insights.
Key topics covered in the conference included advancements in thalassemia management, prevention, and prenatal diagnosis strategies, and Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) as a curative therapy. Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President of TSCS Hyderabad, expressed his satisfaction with the conference, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to combating thalassemia and striving for a thalassemia-free Telangana and India.
Dr. Suman Jain, CEO and Secretary of TSCS Hyderabad, highlighted the unique opportunity the conference provided for experts and thalassemia patients to come together and work towards better understanding and prevention of thalassemia.
Dr. Dimitrios Farmakis praised TSCS’s efforts in combating thalassemia in India and expressed eagerness for further collaboration. Dr. Lawrence Faulkner stressed the importance of prevention and early intervention in thalassemia management, emphasizing that preventing the disease is more effective than treatment. The 2nd National Conference underscored TSCS Hyderabad’s unwavering dedication to the fight against thalassemia, promoting awareness, knowledge sharing, care, and the pursuit of a cure.
India’s Historic 100th Asian Games Medal, PM Modi Applauds:
India achieved a historic milestone in their Asian Games journey by clinching their 100th medal. In an intense women’s kabaddi final against Chinese Taipei, the Indian team displayed incredible determination to clinch their third continental title. Despite facing stiff competition, they managed to maintain a slender lead throughout the match. Notably, Pooja’s super raid was a game-changer, giving India a crucial five-point advantage at halftime.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed this achievement as momentous and expressed his excitement about hosting the country’s contingent on October 10. In a tweet, he lauded the outstanding performances of Indian athletes that have filled the nation with pride. He also commended their efforts in achieving this historic milestone for India.
The people of India share in the excitement of reaching this remarkable milestone at the Asian Games. This achievement reflects the dedication, hard work, and determination of Indian athletes who continue to make the country proud on the international stage.
India’s Historic 100th Asian Games Medal, PM Modi Applauds
As India’s medal tally at the Asian Games continues to grow, it serves as a testament to the nation’s sporting prowess and the potential for even greater success in the future. The Prime Minister’s gesture of hosting the contingent demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting and honoring the achievements of India’s sporting heroes.”
Trisha Affirms Strong Onscreen Chemistry with Vijay in Recent Statement:
Tamil actress Trisha has assured fans that her onscreen chemistry with Kollywood superstar Vijay will remain strong in their upcoming highly anticipated film, “Leo,” which will also be released in the two Telugu states. She shared these thoughts during a promotional event for the movie.
Having previously worked together in films like “Aathi,” “Thirupachi,” “Ghilli,” and “Kuruvi,” Trisha and Vijay are reuniting with “Leo” after a substantial gap. The actress expressed her excitement, stating that they have done four films together, and their onscreen chemistry has always been well-received by fans. She added that she’s received numerous inquiries about their roles in “Leo” due to their reunion.
Trisha Affirms Strong Onscreen Chemistry with Vijay in Recent Statement
On a separate note, Trisha, known for her beauty and acting talent, was set to make her comeback in Tollywood with a role opposite megastar Chiranjeevi. However, the project has been temporarily put on hold, delaying her return to Telugu cinema. She had previously enjoyed success in Telugu films with hits like “Varsham,” “King,” “Bodyguard,” “Sainikudu,” and “Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule” before transitioning to Tamil cinema and achieving stardom there.
The State Disaster Management Authority has reported that the death toll resulting from flash floods in Sikkim has climbed to 26, with 142 individuals still unaccounted for.
As of the midnight report on October 6, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) documented a death toll of 26. They also noted the successful rescue of 2,413 individuals and reported damage to 1,203 homes due to the flash flood.
The flash flood was triggered by the Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim, which is fed by glacial waters, causing the Teesta River basin to experience a sudden deluge on October 4.
This calamity severely damaged 1,173 homes, resulted in 26 injuries and saw 13 bridges swept away due to the flash floods. Currently, 6,875 people are residing in 22 relief camps, and a total of 25,065 individuals have been affected by the flood, as reported by the Sikkim Disaster Management Authority.
The State Disaster Management Authority has reported that the death toll resulting from flash floods in Sikkim has climbed to 26, with 142 individuals still unaccounted for.
As of the midnight report on October 6, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) documented a death toll of 26. They also noted the successful rescue of 2,413 individuals and reported damage to 1,203 homes due to the flash flood.
The flash flood was triggered by the Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim, which is fed by glacial waters, causing the Teesta River basin to experience a sudden deluge on October 4.
This calamity severely damaged 1,173 homes, resulted in 26 injuries and saw 13 bridges swept away due to the flash floods. Currently, 6,875 people are residing in 22 relief camps, and a total of 25,065 individuals have been affected by the flood, as reported by the Sikkim Disaster Management Authority.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang chaired a high-level meeting to address the crisis, attended by several key officials and representatives from organizations such as the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and ITBP. In response to the disaster, the state government, in collaboration with Sikkim Urja Limited, has allocated a special financial relief package of Rs 25 crore for Mangan District and Rs 15 crore each for Gangtok, Pakyong, and Namchi districts.
The CM also emphasized the importance of preventing price inflation for essential commodities by offering subsidies for those transporting goods to the state via longer routes.
CM Tamang warned against hoarding and overcharging, announcing strict measures including the revocation of licenses for violators.
Additionally, the government is prioritizing the restoration of road and network connectivity in the severely affected regions of Mangan District, which have been completely cut off from the rest of the state. Efforts are underway to open road connectivity to Chungthang, and the road from Naga to Toong will be constructed when land availability permits.
Despite the calamity, numerous officials, personnel from the National Disaster Management Authority, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, and dedicated volunteers continue their tireless efforts in rescue and relief operations.
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) also played a crucial role in rescuing 68 individuals who were stranded at an elevation of 16,000 feet in North Sikkim for the last three days due to the flash flood. They managed to evacuate all of them safely.
As per Sikkim’s Chief Secretary, approximately 3,000 people, including tourists, drivers, and motorcyclists, have been stranded in Lachen and Lachung areas.
The flash floods, resulting from the glacial lake outburst flood and sudden surges in the Teesta River, have caused significant damage to bridges, parts of NH-10, the Chungthang Dam, and several towns and infrastructure projects in the upper reaches of the river valley in Sikkim.
The Sikkim government has established 18 relief camps in Singtam, Rangpo, Dikchu, and Adarsh Gaon, with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces setting up additional relief camps in Chungthang due to the lack of connectivity with the area.
The CM also emphasized the importance of preventing price inflation for essential commodities by offering subsidies for those transporting goods to the state via longer routes.
CM Tamang warned against hoarding and overcharging, announcing strict measures including the revocation of licenses for violators.
Additionally, the government is prioritizing the restoration of road and network connectivity in the severely affected regions of Mangan District, which have been completely cut off from the rest of the state. Efforts are underway to open road connectivity to Chungthang, and the road from Naga to Toong will be constructed when land availability permits.
Despite the calamity, numerous officials, personnel from the National Disaster Management Authority, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, and dedicated volunteers continue their tireless efforts in rescue and relief operations.
Sikkim Flash Floods 26 Dead, 142 Still Missing
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) also played a crucial role in rescuing 68 individuals who were stranded at an elevation of 16,000 feet in North Sikkim for the last three days due to the flash flood. They managed to evacuate all of them safely.
As per Sikkim’s Chief Secretary, approximately 3,000 people, including tourists, drivers, and motorcyclists, have been stranded in Lachen and Lachung areas.
The flash floods, resulting from the glacial lake outburst flood and sudden surges in the Teesta River, have caused significant damage to bridges, parts of NH-10, the Chungthang Dam, and several towns and infrastructure projects in the upper reaches of the river valley in Sikkim.
The Sikkim government has established 18 relief camps in Singtam, Rangpo, Dikchu, and Adarsh Gaon, with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces setting up additional relief camps in Chungthang due to the lack of connectivity with the area.
RBI Expands UDGAM Portal to Help Locate Unclaimed Deposits:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it has added 30 banks to the UDGAM portal (Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access information) to assist the public in locating unclaimed deposits. This expanded search feature now encompasses approximately 90 percent of the total unclaimed deposits in terms of their value within the Depositor Education and Awareness (DEA) Fund, as stated by the central bank.
Among the 30 banks are prominent financial institutions such as SBI, Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, as well as foreign banks. Unclaimed deposits that have been dormant in a bank for 10 years are transferred to the DEA Fund managed by the RBI.
As of the end of February 2023, the RBI has received unclaimed deposits totaling Rs 35,012 crore from Public Sector Banks. The central bank introduced the UDGAM Centralised Web portal to facilitate public access to search for unclaimed deposits across various banks in one convenient location.
The public has been informed that the search feature for 30 banks was made accessible on the portal as of September 28, 2023.
Vizag Zoo Introduces a 2.5-Year-Old Lioness to Its Wildlife Family:
The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam has added a new member to its wildlife family—a 2.5-year-old lioness from Sakkarbaug Zoo in Gujarat. After completing the required quarantine period, the lioness was released into its day kraal.
The formal release of the lioness into its enclosure was conducted by Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Srikantha Natha Reddy of Visakhapatnam. The event was attended by IGZP curator Nandani Salaria, Deputy Conservator of Forests, and Mangamma. Notably, school students had the opportunity to witness this moment, adding to their excitement.
Vizag Zoo Introduces a 2.5-Year-Old Lioness to Its Wildlife Family
This young lioness is stepping in to fill the void left by the passing of two older lionesses at the zoo due to old age. The addition of this new member is a significant development for the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park as it contributes to the park’s efforts to maintain a diverse and healthy population of wildlife.
