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Building Dreams: How Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Is Transforming Lives For Low-Income Families In India

By
The Commune
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The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is turning the dream of owning a home into reality for countless low-income families across India. After years of enduring harsh conditions while living in mud houses, beneficiaries of PMAY have voiced their appreciation after getting a house made of brick and mortar.

For families previously trapped in poverty, the transition to a solid roof over their heads signifies not just a structural change, but a profound emotional uplift. Women beneficiaries, visibly moved, have shared their heartfelt gratitude to the Centre. PMAY beneficiaries lauded PM’s efforts for providing homes to marginalised communities Dhanbad.

“Today, our dream of owning a house has come true,” one beneficiary remarked. “This is all thanks to our Prime Minister’s efforts.” With the current era marked by rising inflation, the aspiration for a house often seemed an unattainable dream for the poor. However, the PMAY has changed that reality, instilling hope and excitement in communities that had long felt marginalised. Beneficiaries have voiced their appreciation for this transformative initiative by the Union government.

Mira Devi, who once lived in a mud house, expressed her relief, “The government has given us a home. I want to thank PM Modi for this scheme.”

Another beneficiary echoed this sentiment, stating, “This is a very good initiative by our government. We faced many challenges while living in a mud house, but now our lives have improved significantly.” The positive impact of PMAY is palpable, with families expressing newfound stability and security. “We used to live in inadequate conditions,” another recipient shared. “Thanks to PM Modi, we now have a wonderful home to live in.”

Launched in 25 June 2015 as a pivotal scheme by the Government of India, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing to the economically weaker sections of society. It offers financial assistance to enable the construction or purchase of homes.

The initiative is divided into two distinct segments: PMAY-Urban (PMAY-U) and PMAY-Gramin (PMAY-G), targeting urban and rural populations respectively. In a significant expansion for the fiscal year 2024-25, the government has increased its efforts to ensure that more families can benefit from this crucial scheme. Those wishing to take advantage of PMAY’s benefits are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline of 31 October.

Applications can be made through ward Councillors, Tehsildars, or corporation offices, allowing families to celebrate Diwali in their new homes by next year potentially. As the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana continues to reshape the landscape of housing for the less fortunate, it stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of government intervention in improving the lives of its citizens.

-IANS

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Dravidian Model: Confusion And Chaos For Passengers Travelling From Chennai To Hometowns In TN Govt Buses

By
The Commune
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Chaos For Passengers Travelling From Chennai To Hometowns In TN Govt Buses

As Deepavali approaches on 31 October 2024, many passengers are heading to their hometowns to celebrate the festival with their families, resulting in a significant rush across town. Despite the DMK government’s promise to operate special bus services starting 28 October 2024, passengers at Kilambakkam bus terminus are facing major challenges, including internet outages, heavy traffic, and inflated fares from private buses. Commuters at Koyambedu faced inadequate responses from government bus staff.

On 21 October 2024, Transport Minister SS Sivasankar announced that 14,016 buses, including 11,176 special buses, would be deployed from Chennai to various parts of the state between 28 and 30 October for passengers returning home. He mentioned that a total of 7,740 special buses would be available statewide during this period.

“In addition to the regular daily services of 2,092 buses from the city, we will operate 4,900 special buses from Chennai. From other areas in the state, we will provide 2,910 buses over the three days,” he stated. The special buses will depart from bus terminuses in Chennai, including Koyambedu, Kilambakkam, and Madhavaram.

An elderly commuter shared her frustrations with the media, stating, “I need to go to Pattukottai, since I couldn’t travel that far, I came here. They put up a board saying we could go via Kumbakonam. Outside, they said on platform 2 that Kumbakonam bus is available, but here everyone says they don’t know. What’s all this? They are making people wander around like this. Doesn’t the government have a responsibility to do this properly? Why is there a government here? Is it to make people wander? Will they make us wander like this? Look at how many are standing and wandering around. If we ask him, he says this bus won’t go to Kumbakonam, and there is no bus to Kumbakonam here then why do they issue statements on TV? Did you hear what they said on TV? They said all buses will go from Koyambedu from the 28th to the 31st. I have been struggling here for one hour but no bus. Tell me an answer for this? Why should the government announce things like this?”

The elderly woman expressed her frustration, saying the government only showcases their measures on TV, but in reality, nothing is being done. She also questioned why the staff at the bus terminal respond that they don’t know where the buses are when they should be helping. “The entire administration is failing,” she lamented.

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National Stock Exchange Crosses 20 Crore Client Accounts

By
The Commune
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National Stock Exchange Crosses 20 Crore Client Accounts

The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) on Wednesday announced that total number of client accounts at the exchange have surpassed 20 crore, from 16.9 crore eight months ago.

Among states, Maharashtra has the highest number of accounts, at 3.6 crore, followed by Uttar Pradesh (2.2 crore), Gujarat (1.8 crore), Rajasthan, and West Bengal, at 1.2 crore each.

Together, these states account for nearly 50 per cent of client accounts, while the top 10 states account for approximately three-fourths.

Additionally, the unique registered investor base now stands at 10.5 crore, having crossed the 10 crore (100 million) mark on August 8, 2024, according to the exchange.

“We have achieved another remarkable milestone in our investor base, with the exchange witnessing an increase of around three crore total accounts in just over eight months following February’s count of almost 17 crore,” said Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE.

This exceptional growth reflects strong investor confidence in India’s growth story, which is driven by digital transformation and technological innovation.

“The widespread adoption of mobile trading applications and increasing investor awareness, supported by the government’s digital initiatives, has effectively democratised market access, particularly benefiting investors from tier 2, 3, and 4 cities,” Krishnan added.

This expansion is supported by streamlined KYC processes, enhanced financial literacy programs, and sustained positive market sentiments, as demonstrated by robust participation across diverse investment instruments, including equities, ETFs, REITs, InvITs, and various bonds.

“This milestone underscores India’s evolving financial landscape and the successful fusion of technology with retail investment accessibility,” he added. Meanwhile, as global investors’ confidence grows in the Indian stock market, GIFT Nifty has set an all-time high open interest of $20.84 billion (on September 24), surpassing its previous record of $18.50 billion.

–IANS

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Global Searches For Vietnam’s Travel Surge

By
The Commune
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Global Searches For Vietnam's Travel Surge

VnExpress reported on Wednesday, citing the online travel agency Agoda, that global searches for travel to Vietnam saw a big jump from July to September.

Searches for travel to Vietnam rose 4 percent in July year over year, and there was a 31 percent surge in August.

According to Agoda, September saw a dramatic 84 per cent spike as travellers globally began planning for Christmas and New Year holidays.

According to the country’s General Statistics Office, Vietnam recorded over 12.7 million international arrivals in the first nine months of 2024, an increase of 43 per cent year over year.

The Southeast Asian country is determined to attract 17 million to 18 million international visitors this year, as the last three months are the peak season for international arrivals in Vietnam.

–IANS

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“You Ask The MP How Many Were Affected And Tell Him To Provide The Relief,” DMK Minister Moorthy Responds To CPI-M MP Venkatesan’s ₹25,000 Flood Relief Request

By
The Commune
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DMK Minister Moorthy Responds To CPI-M MP Venkatesan's ₹25,000 Flood Relief Request

The tensions within the DMK alliance in Tamil Nadu have intensified as Madurai MP Su Venkatesan of the CPI-M and P Moorthy, the DMK Minister for Commercial Tax and Registration, have engaged in another verbal criticism. Venkatesan is calling on the government to allocate ₹25,000 in relief for families affected by the floods, while Moorthy has responded critically to the MP’s request. This exchange has further exacerbated an already escalating feud amidst the ongoing monsoon floods in Madurai.

According to P. Moorthy, the Commercial Taxes Minister, the heavy rainfall in Madurai has not led to any major damage, and all standing water has been promptly cleared. In response to MP Su Venkatesan’s request for ₹25,000 in relief for flood-affected families, Moorthy stated that the MP needs to identify specific impacted areas and provide justification for the relief.

Moorthy made these remarks while handing out house allotment orders to 47 sanitation workers under the ‘Housing for All’ scheme on Tuesday. He emphasized that there was no significant damage from the rain, and any accumulated water was dealt with effectively. If there are indeed affected areas, he urged Venkatesan to specify them or take the initiative to provide the relief himself.

The reporters asked Minister Moorthy about CPI-M MP Venkatesan’s request to the Chief Minister for the release of funds for those affected. Minister Moorthy responded, “He says to give, ask him where it has affected. You should ask him to whom and where we should give 25,000 rupees and ask the MP how many were affected. Based on his reply, you can ask him to give.”

The minister also announced that ₹11 crore has been allocated for the construction of a permanent canal linking Sellur tank to the Vaigai River. Moreover, plans are underway to build canals in regions lacking adequate drainage to prevent future water stagnation.

Regarding ongoing flood relief efforts, Moorthy mentioned that 107 medical camps have been established in areas where water has pooled. He added that District Collector Sangeetha and Corporation Commissioner Dinesh Kumar are scheduled to meet with the Chief Minister on 30 October to assess the situation and discuss measures taken to mitigate flood damage following Thevar Jayanthi celebrations. Additionally, the minister inspected the cleaning of the Bibikulam channel.

In Madurai district, tensions have already erupted between DMK and CPI-M party members over the issue of free Pattas, and this conflict has intensified in the wake of recent rains and flooding. The heavy downpours have inundated many areas, severely impacting the local population.

In light of the situation, MP S. Venkatesan emphasized, “The heavy rains and floods have caused significant loss of basic necessities for the people of Madurai. I urge the Tamil Nadu government to provide at least 25,000 rupees in compensation to the affected families.” He also highlighted that Madurai district is witnessing renewed unrest within the DMK alliance. Former Minister Sellur Raju had previously made a similar request, but Minister P. Moorthy did not respond at the time. Now, Venkatesan has voiced his frustrations regarding the lack of action.

(With Inputs From TOI)

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Kanguva Film Editor Nishad Yusuf Found Dead In Kochi Apartment

By
The Commune
-
Kanguva Film Editor Nishad Yusuf Found Dead In Kochi Apartment

In shocking news for the Malayalam film industry, acclaimed editor Nishad Yusuf, known for his work on the upcoming Tamil film Kanguva, featuring Kollywood actor and virtue signaller Suriya, was found dead in his apartment in Panampilly Nagar, Kochi. The 43-year-old editor was discovered at around 2:00 AM on Wednesday (30 October 2024), according to reports. His body has been moved to the general hospital, and initial reports suggest the cause of death is suspected to be suicide.

Nishad Yusuf was a prominent figure in the Malayalam cinema world, with notable contributions to films such as Unda starring Mammootty, Thallumaala featuring Tovino Thomas, One, and the critically acclaimed Saudi Vellakka by Tharun Moorthy. His work on Thallumaala earned him the Kerala State Award for Best Editor, recognizing his remarkable skill and creativity in film editing.

Recently, he shared images from the promotional events for Kanguva, directed by Siva and starring Suriya and several other Bollywood actors, adding to the excitement surrounding the film. News of his sudden passing has left colleagues, friends, and fans in disbelief, coming just days before the release of the much-awaited period action film.

The Malayalam film industry mourns the loss of a talented editor whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape. An investigation is underway to confirm the circumstances surrounding his death.

(With inputs from Times Of India)

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HR&CE Dept Says Money Offered By Devotees On Archaka’s Plate Belongs To Temple And Not Archaka, CCTV & Staff To Monitor Archakas At Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple 

By
The Commune
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HR&CE Dept Says Money Offered By Devotees On Archaka's Plate Belongs To Temple And Not Archaka, CCTV & Staff To Monitor Archakas At Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple 

The Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department of the Tamil Nadu government has announced that archakas do not have the right to take home the money that is placed on the Archana/offering plate, emphasizing that these funds belong to the temple. This statement comes amid concerns raised regarding practices at the Kuzhandai Velappar Temple in Poomparai, Kodaikanal, one of over 30 sub-temples managed by the Palani Murugan Temple.

Reports surfaced alleging that priests at the Kuzhandai Velappar Temple were pressuring devotees to place their offerings on the archanai plate instead of the hundial. In response, the HR&CE department issued a statement reinforcing that all contributions made by devotees are to be deposited in the temple’s bank account and not for personal use by any staff member.

The HR&CE department stated that Archakar Mohan employed at the temple was a permanent employee at the Kuzhandai Velappar Temple, received a monthly salary of ₹38,907 along with various benefits such as bonuses, pay increments, and leave encashment. It was stated that he is entitled to all government employee benefits, including pension and gratuity. The HR&CE department stressed that as a salaried employee, Mohan has no authority to “misappropriate” the offerings made by devotees.

It is alleged that three staff have been appointed to oversee whether the devotees are offering money in the hundial, CCTVs are also allegedly in place to keep an eye on the archakas.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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Japan’s Youth Suicides Remain High: Government Report

By
The Commune
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Japan's Youth Suicides Remain High: Government Report

The number of suicides among elementary, junior high, and high school students in Japan remained alarmingly high in 2023, a government report showed on Tuesday.

The number of elementary to high school students who committed suicide in Japan stood at 513 in 2023, against the record high of 514 marked the previous year, according to the country’s 2024 Suicide Prevention White Paper.

The data breakdown shows 347 high school students, 153 junior high students, and 13 elementary students died by suicide, Xinhua news agency reported.

The paper said common causes for elementary students’ suicides include “discipline and reprimands” from family.

As grades progressed, junior high and high school boys cited school-related issues such as “academic struggles” and “career concerns.” Girls in these age groups were more likely to cite “conflicts with friends” and other relationship issues.

Japan’s total number of suicides in 2023 reached 21,837, a decrease of 44 from the previous year. The suicide rate, indicating deaths per 100,000 people, held steady at 17.6. Since 2020, suicide rates have increased across most age groups in Japan.

The highest suicide rates were among the unemployed, although working individuals also saw an increase, the data showed.

–IANS

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Indian Scientists Develop Method To Create Hydrogels To Boost Drug Delivery

By
The Commune
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Indian Scientists Develop Method To Create Hydrogels To Boost Drug Delivery

Researchers from Bose Institute, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in Kolkata, have developed a new way to create hydrogels using tiny protein fragments of just five amino acids from the SARS-CoV-1 virus.

The novel method may help improve targeted drug delivery and reduce side effects. Hydrogels are suitable for drug delivery because of their swelling behaviour, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility.

While short peptide-based hydrogels have great potential for a wide range of applications, controlling their gelation is challenging.

A team of researchers at the Department of Chemical Sciences in Bose Institute, led by Professor Anirban Bhunia, explored the SARS-CoV-E protein’s inherent self-assembling properties.

Their study unravelled a new way to create useful gel materials. The team also collaborated with scientists from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, US, and the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata.

Their findings, published in the prestigious journal Small (Wiley), showed that gels made up of pentapeptides with unique properties can be developed by rearranging just five amino acids of the SARS-CoV-1 virus.

The team found that some gel when heated, others at room temperature. “This unique discovery could lead to significant medical advancements like customisable hydrogels that can improve targeted drug delivery, enhancing treatment efficacy while reducing side effects,” said the team.

Further, the materials can revolutionise tissue engineering, potentially aiding in organ regeneration. The team said these gels might also advance wound healing treatments and enable more accurate disease modelling for research.

–IANS

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9 Instances Of Threats Against Indian Officials By Khalistani Separatist Organizations

By
The Commune
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9 Instances Of Threats Against Indian Officials By Khalistani Separatist Organizations

During an interview on 24 October 2024, the recalled Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Varma revealed he had been attacked with a sword by a Punjab separatist in Alberta, Canada. This attack marks an alarming escalation in ongoing threats against Indian diplomats by Khalistani groups in Canada, the UK, and other countries.

 

Indian diplomats have increasingly faced threats from Khalistani separatist groups, especially in Canada, as well as in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. These groups have often restricted diplomats’ access to Gurdwaras, and some segments of the Sikh community, influenced by separatist ideologies, have exhibited hostility. Additionally, threatening posters calling for violence against Indian officials have circulated, creating an atmosphere of intimidation.

This report details nine instances of threats faced by Indian diplomats and leaders.

Instance #1

On 25 October 2024, amid the diplomatic standoff between Canada and India over the killing of designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Indian diplomat Sanjay Verma was recalled from Canada. Following his expulsion, Sikh for Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun escalated tensions by announcing a $500,000 reward for information on Verma’s location and travel details, reportedly placing him under CIA watch.

Instance #2

On 14 October 2024, the group Sikh For Justice (SFJ) released a disturbing video depicting bullets fired at an image of Sanjay Verma, the Indian envoy to Canada. The video, which showed Verma’s photo being struck by gunfire, quickly surfaced on the social media platform X shortly after India’s Ministry of External Affairs summoned a Canadian diplomat in response to escalating tensions.

Instance #3

On 8 July 2023, Sikh For Justice (SFJ)’s Gurpatwant Singh Pannun issued a threat against all Indian embassies, vowing to “besiege” Indian missions worldwide on India’s Independence Day. In a video released to announce plans for an upcoming “Khalistan Freedom Rally,” Pannun declared, “On August 15, the Sikh community is going to besiege every terror house that is an Indian embassy,“ emphasizing that this action was “just the start.”

Instance #4

On 23 July 2023, Sikh For Justice (SFJ) targeted Indian diplomats in Canada, including Sanjay Kumar Verma, India’s High Commissioner in Ottawa, and Apoorva Srivastava, Consul General in Toronto, as well as another official, Manish. In a poster circulated by Sikh extremists, these diplomats were accused of involvement in the killing of Khalistan Tiger Force chief and designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. SFJ also announced a $10,000 reward for information on the diplomats’ residential addresses.

Instance #5

On 10 September 2023, SFJ’s Gurpatwant Singh Pannun issued public threats against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Speaking at a gathering in Canada attended by approximately 5,000 to 7,000 people, Pannun’s threats fueled by SFJ’s separatist agenda targeting top Indian officials was distressing.

Instance #6

On 24 September 2023, posters calling for the killing of three Indian envoys—Apoorva Srivastava, Sanjay Verma, and Manish—were displayed at a Gurdwara in Surrey, Canada. This explicit threat further escalated concerns for the safety of Indian diplomats amid growing tensions in the region.

Instance #7

On 30 September 2023, Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, was barred from entering a Gurdwara in Scotland. This incident occurred amid an ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada following the June 2023 killing of designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which heightened tensions involving Sikh separatist groups.

Instance #8

On 12 November 2023, Manish, the Consul General of India in Vancouver, Canada, faced harassment from Sikh activists, while Sikh For Justice (SFJ) founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun issued a new threat against him. In a video, Pannun, a designated terrorist, warned Manish of “sweet poetic justice” and accused him of “challenging the sovereignty of Canada” through alleged involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Instance #9

On 9 January 2018, ninety-six Gurdwaras across the United States announced a ban on Indian officials, diplomats, and members of organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Shiv Sena from entering their premises. The decision was declared by the Sikh Cultural Society in New York during an event commemorating the death anniversary of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassins. This announcement followed a teleconference involving a total of 116 Gurdwara management committees.

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