In a startling incident this Saturday morning, a car careened out of control, crashing into the road median of the solar roof cycling track at Nanakramguda in Hyderabad. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Eyewitnesses report that the driver, suspected of speeding, lost control of the vehicle, leading to the mishap. The SUV, veering off the main road, entered the cycling track before colliding with the road median.
Authorities are currently searching for the driver, who fled the scene following the incident. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
New Delhi, February 23: The Election Commission is poised to unveil the Lok Sabha election dates post March 13, following an extensive tour of various states to evaluate the preparations for the general elections. The Commission’s officials are presently in Tamil Nadu and are scheduled to visit Uttar Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir next. Earlier, Bihar was also visited by the Commission’s team. The assessments in all states across the nation are expected to conclude by March 13, paving the way for the likely announcement of Lok Sabha election dates thereafter.
In anticipation of the elections, the Commission has been engaged in regular consultations with the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states over the past few months to gauge preparedness. The CEOs have identified key challenges such as EVM mobility, security force requirements, and the need for stringent border surveillance, among others.
Notably, the Election Commission is planning to leverage artificial intelligence to ensure the smooth conduct of elections this year. Moreover, fact-checking, combatting disinformation, and ensuring tight security in specific regions are also high on the agenda for the upcoming elections.
According to Election Commission data, a staggering 96.88 crore individuals are eligible to vote in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, marking the world’s highest voter participation. Additionally, 1.85 crore individuals aged 18 to 19 are registered to vote.
Given the vast electorate, Lok Sabha elections are likely to be conducted in six to seven stages. Large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and areas affected by Naxal insurgency are expected to witness elections in multiple stages. The entire election process is estimated to span around one and a half months, with votes for all Lok Sabha seats being counted on the same day.
The formal announcement of the election date is expected shortly after the completion of the Commission’s state visits on March 13.
Hyderabad:- Telangana Governor, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, emphasized the imperative of extending advanced fertility treatments to the economically disadvantaged segments of society. Her remarks came during the inauguration of the International Conference on Reproductive Health and the 34th Annual Meeting of the ISSRF 2024, held on Friday.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Soundararajan stressed the need for innovations that render reproductive health and fertility treatments accessible to all, particularly those residing in rural areas. She underscored the emotional significance of fertility issues within families and urged for a subtle and inclusive approach towards addressing them.
“As a gynecologist myself, I understand the emotional nuances associated with fertility problems. It’s essential to integrate various medical practices for comprehensive care,” she stated, commending the integration of Ayush and Allopathy medicines by the Prime Minister for yielding positive outcomes.
The Governor also applauded the contributions of Prof. Balram Bhargava, Chief of Cardiothoracic Centre, AIIMS, in spearheading the development of indigenous Covid-19 vaccines. She credited his expertise and guidance for aiding the nation in overcoming the pandemic and saving numerous lives.
During the event, the Governor recognized the efforts of Dr. Roya Rozati, Organizing Secretary of ISSRF 2024, for convening the conference on a pertinent theme aimed at advancing fertility medicine.
Dr. Rozati, in her welcome address, highlighted the significance of scientific discourse and collaboration in pushing the boundaries of fertility treatment. She noted the participation of esteemed scientists and academicians from across the country in the three-day conference.
In a ceremonial gesture, the Governor released the ISSRF 2024 Souvenir and presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to distinguished figures for their remarkable contributions to reproductive medicine.
Reflecting on her own professional journey as a gynecologist, Governor Soundararajan reiterated her commitment to supporting innovative initiatives, drawing parallels between childbirth and the creation of Telangana state.
The event witnessed the presence of notable personalities including ISSRF President Prof. N.K. Lohiya, ISSRF Secretary Prof. (Dr.) R. S. Sharma, and Dr. Shantha Kumari, among others.
In closing remarks, the Governor urged healthcare professionals to prioritize their own well-being, recognizing the pivotal role of mental and physical fitness in delivering quality patient care.
Hyderabad :- The Indian Dairy Association – South Zone has declared the upcoming 50th Dairy Industry Conference (DIC), set to be hosted at the HITEX EXHIBITION CENTRE, Hitech City, Hyderabad from March 4th to 6th, 2024.
This milestone event, anchored by the Indian Dairy Association Telangana Chapter, coincides with the 75th Platinum Jubilee Year of the Indian Dairy Association, adding grandeur to the occasion.
Expected to draw significant attention, the DIC aims to gather approximately 100 CEOs from various dairy enterprises, alongside government secretaries and esteemed dignitaries.
A noteworthy highlight of the conference will be the presence of Southern Dairy & Husbandry Ministers, who will partake in a scheduled conclave on March 5th, 2024.
With the spotlight on advancing the dairy industry, this golden jubilee edition promises insightful discussions, strategic collaborations, and visionary deliberations to steer the sector towards greater heights.
Urbana, Illinois: The sudden and tragic death of 18-year-old Akul Dhawan, an Indian-American student at Illinois University, has ignited a wave of scrutiny and grief within the community. Dhawan was found lifeless last month after succumbing to freezing temperatures near a club that had denied him entry during a night out with friends.
Questionable Search Efforts: Dhawan’s parents have lodged a formal complaint with the University of Illinois Police, expressing concerns about the search efforts and protocols followed during the investigation. They allege negligence on the part of the university police, pointing out discrepancies in the reported search efforts near the Busey-Evans Residence Hall, where Dhawan was found nearly 10 hours after being reported missing.
Cause of Death: The Champaign County Coroner’s Office attributed Dhawan’s death to hypothermia exacerbated by acute alcohol intoxication and prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. His parents assert that the university police neglected their duty and failed to conduct a thorough search, ultimately leading to their son’s demise.
Calls for Accountability: In an open letter, Dhawan’s parents demand accountability from university officials and the police, emphasizing the need for transparency and proper procedures in such situations. They express deep sorrow over the loss of their son and urge authorities to address the alleged negligence.
National Attention: Dhawan’s tragic death adds to a concerning trend, with several young men of Indian and Indian-American descent meeting untimely ends across the United States this year. White House official John Kirby condemned such incidents, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating violence based on race or any other factor.
Assurance from Officials: US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti reassured the Indian community of the Biden-led administration’s dedication to ensuring their safety while pursuing higher education in the United States.
Family’s Heartfelt Plea: Dhawan’s parents express profound grief over their son’s untimely passing and lament the lack of timely communication from the university regarding the incident. They seek answers and justice for their son, emphasizing the university police’s alleged negligence in their search efforts.
Remembering Akul Dhawan: Dhawan was a promising student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His parents describe him as a smart and ambitious young man with a bright future ahead of him.
Final Thoughts: As the investigation into Dhawan’s death continues, his parents’ plea for accountability resonates deeply within the community. The tragic loss of a promising young life underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and thoroughness in campus security protocols.
Hyderabad : Former IAS officer and ex-Andhra Pradesh Chief Information Commissioner Jannat Hussain, aged 73, passed away in Sullurupeta of Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh, on Friday. He had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for some time.
Hussain was residing with his second son, Niaz, in Sullurupeta. His family is bringing his mortal remains to his Kundanbagh residence in Hyderabad.
Notable Career and Contributions: Jannat Hussain served as the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister during YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s regime. He joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1977 and held various positions, including District Collector of several districts, Secretary, and Principal Secretary of various government departments. He played a crucial role in formulating the rules and regulations for the ‘free power to farmers’ scheme, remembered for handing over the file of ‘free electricity to farmers’ at the swearing-in ceremony of Dr. Rajasekhara Reddy in 2004.
Condolences and Remembrances: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed condolences over Hussain’s passing, acknowledging his significant contributions during his tenure. He highlighted Hussain’s role in the implementation of the free power supply to agriculture scheme under YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s leadership.
The last rites of Jannat Hussain will be performed on Saturday in Hyderabad. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter.
Hyderabad :- In a devastating incident, G. Lasya Nanditha, the 37-year-old MLA representing Secunderabad Cantonment, lost her life in a road crash on the Outer Ring Road in Patancheru. The accident occurred in the early hours of February 23.
Nanditha tragically passed away on the spot due to a severe head injury sustained in the crash. She was seated in the second-row seat of the SUV, a Maruthi Suzuki XL6, at the time of the incident. The driver of the vehicle also suffered severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby emergency center.
Reports indicate that the crash was a result of the high speed at which the vehicle was traveling, with no other vehicles involved. The SUV was found crashed into the extreme left metal railing of the ORR.
Daughter of former longstanding Cantonment legislator G. Sayanna, Nanditha was a first-time MLA elected from the Bharata Rashtra Samithi in December 2023.
This tragedy comes shortly after Nanditha narrowly escaped another accident on February 13 on the Narketpally-Addanki State Highway on the outskirts of Nalgonda town. On that occasion, she was returning to Hyderabad after attending a party event, and a home guard from the Narketpally police station lost his life in the crash.
The mortal remains of the MLA were taken to the local Amedha Hospitals, with the post-mortem scheduled to be conducted at the Patancheru area hospital.
Hyderabad :- Dalit Sthree Sakthi (DSS) marked its 18th anniversary with a significant annual conference held at the Ambedkar Resource Centre, Lakadika Pool. The event focused on the theme “Dalit, Adivasi Women, and Social Justice,” highlighting the ongoing struggle for equality and justice for marginalized communities.
Upholding Rights and Advocacy Presided over by Jhansi Geddam, National Convener of DSS, the conference featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Sri. Vinod Kumar, Ambassador, Sri. M.F. Gopinath, Cardiologist, and other notable figures. The gathering commemorated DSS’s relentless efforts over the past 18 years in safeguarding the rights of Dalit and Adivasi women and children, often intervening to secure justice in cases of abuse and discrimination.
Journey Towards Equality Jhansi Geddam reflected on DSS’s journey, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to promoting gender equality and combating violence against women. She stressed the need for equitable distribution of resources to achieve true equality. Sri. Vinod Kumar echoed these sentiments, lamenting the persistence of inequality and oppression in India, despite its democratic ideals.
Call for Action Sri. MF. Gopinath urged people to exercise their voting rights to bring about societal change, echoing the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The speakers, along with attendees from Dalit women’s collectives, villages, and slums, lauded DSS’s efforts and called for continued action to address systemic injustices.
As DSS commemorates its 18th year, the conference serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice and the need for collective action to ensure equality for all.
In a comprehensive study involving over 99 million individuals across several countries, researchers have identified two new, extremely rare side effects associated with Covid-19 vaccines. The study, considered the largest of its kind, also reaffirmed the rarity of known vaccine complications, emphasizing the significant benefits of Covid-19 vaccination.
Unveiling the Rare Side Effects Researchers identified two new but exceptionally rare side effects linked to Covid-19 vaccines: a neurological disorder and inflammation of the spinal cord. These findings emerged from an extensive analysis of electronic healthcare data from Australia, Argentina, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand, and Scotland. Despite these new discoveries, researchers underscored that the benefits of Covid-19 vaccination far outweigh the risks.
Confirmation of Known Side Effects The study also confirmed previously identified rare side effects associated with mRNA vaccines, such as myocarditis and pericarditis, as well as Guillain-Barré syndrome and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine. The analysis provided a high level of accuracy in establishing these known links.
Australian Study Validates Findings A separate analysis of 6.8 million Australians who received the AstraZeneca vaccine independently confirmed acute disseminated encephalomyelitis as a rare side effect. This study also led to the discovery of another rare side effect, transverse myelitis, or spinal cord inflammation, associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.
Experts’ Perspective: Professor Jim Buttery, co-director of the Global Vaccine Data Network, emphasized that the risk of myocarditis is higher with natural Covid infection than following vaccination. Both conditions, while serious, often result in recovery.
Professor Julie Leask, a vaccine expert at the University of Sydney, highlighted the importance of maintaining perspective, noting that a Covid infection poses a higher risk of these rare conditions than vaccination. She also praised the responsiveness of vaccine experts to serious side effects, emphasizing the robustness of vaccination programs in addressing such issues.
The findings of these studies, published in the international journal Vaccine, provide valuable insights into the safety and effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines, reinforcing the importance of vaccination in combating the pandemic.
“I am not afraid of the CBI, I stand with the farmers. I am the son of a farmer.”: Satyapal Malik
New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted searches at the premises of former Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik and 29 other locations on Thursday in connection with alleged corruption in the Rs 2,200-crore Kiru Hydropower project.
The federal agency’s operation began in the morning, with around 100 officers mobilized to swoop down at the 30 locations in multiple cities of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, besides Delhi and Mumbai.
Premises linked to Malik at R K Puram, Dwarka, and Asian Games Village in Delhi, as well as those in Gurugram and Baghpat, were searched.
The searches also covered the premises of alleged associates of Malik, former chairman of the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited Navin Kumar Chaudhary, and officials of Patel Engineering Limited.
“I have been ill for the last 3-4 days and am admitted to the hospital. Despite this, my house is being raided by the dictator through government agencies. My driver and my assistant are also being raided and harassed unnecessarily. I am a farmer’s son, I will not be afraid of these raids. I am with the farmers,” Malik said in a post on X.
The case pertains to alleged corruption in awarding a civil-work contract related to the Kiru Hydro Electric Power Project (HEP) worth Rs 2,200 crore.
Malik, who was the governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 23, 2018, to October 30, 2019, had claimed that he was offered a Rs 300-crore bribe for clearing two files, including the one pertaining to the project.
“The case was registered on allegations of malpractices in the award of the contract worth approximately Rs 2,200 crore of civil works of the Kiru Hydro Electric Power Project (HEP) to a private company in 2019,” the CBI had said earlier.
The agency has booked Chaudhary and other former officials of the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited — M S Babu, M K Mittal, and Arun Kumar Mishra — and Patel Engineering Limited.
“Though a decision was taken in the 47th board meeting of CVPPPL (Chenab Valley Power Projects (P) Ltd) for re-tender through e-tendering with a reverse auction after the cancellation of the ongoing tendering process, the same was not implemented (according to the decision taken in the 48th board meeting) and the tender was finally awarded to Patel Engineering Limited,” the FIR has alleged.
The agency had conducted searches at the premises of five people in January in connection with the case.
