Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • EVENT: Bitcoin MENA Conference

    EVENT: Bitcoin MENA Conference

    HH Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak inaugurates Bitcoin MENA Conference at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi…reports Asian Lite News

     HH Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the Bitcoin MENA Conference at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.

    The event marks the first time the conference has been held in the Middle East, highlighting the region’s growing role in the global digital currency ecosystem.

    The event, organised by the ADNEC Group in collaboration with BTC Inc., and in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Blockchain Center, has attracted over 5,200 global experts and decision-makers.

    Featuring participation from 55 countries, the conference includes 120 distinguished speakers who will share their insights into Bitcoin and digital currency trends.

    Alongside the conference, the accompanying exhibition spans over 8,000 square metres, showcasing innovations from 500 leading companies and brands.

    In his address, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak stated, “The Bitcoin MENA Conference reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to positioning Abu Dhabi as a global hub for innovation and technology. Organising such an event reflects Abu Dhabi’s dedication to hosting initiatives that drive technological and economic progress, in line with our vision of fostering a knowledge-based, sustainable global community.”

    He further emphasised the significance of digital currencies in shaping the global economy, noting that these technologies are not just means of exchange, but also comprehensive systems built on blockchain technology, promoting transparency and efficiency.

    “As digital currencies continue to gain global traction, they have become key symbols of economic digital transformation, driving innovation and financial inclusion. Events like this conference provide vital platforms for collaboration and knowledge exchange, paving the way for economic growth and technological advancement,” he added.

    Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, stated, “We are currently witnessing a period of significant transformations in blockchain technologies and virtual currencies, paving the way for the UAE to establish itself as a leading nation leveraging artificial intelligence to build a secure digital future.”

    He explained that the UAE is committed to fostering a secure and thriving digital community, grounded in key pillars that include strengthening partnerships to enhance collaboration, encouraging innovation to drive progress, and establishing governance to ensure integrity and accountability.

    He added, “These pillars serve as a solid foundation for developing an advanced and progressive digital ecosystem that aligns with future aspirations and reaffirms the UAE’s global leadership.”

    Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, highlighted the strategic importance of hosting the conference in Abu Dhabi. He remarked, “This event aligns with ADNEC Group’s strategy to support emerging industries and reflects the UAE’s vision for the next fifty years. It strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a capital for advanced industries and technologies, demonstrating our ability to attract major global events and foster innovation across our business clusters.”

    Abdullah Al Dhaheri, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Blockchain Center, underscored the transformative journey of Bitcoin since its inception in 2008, noting its evolution from a niche concept to a global financial revolution. He stated, “Bitcoin is no longer just a digital currency; it symbolises transparency, autonomy, and a redefined global financial framework. This conference provides a valuable platform to explore Bitcoin’s potential to shape the future of finance, foster innovation, and build partnerships that support emerging economies and financial inclusion.”

    The conference features an exceptional lineup of speakers, including Eric Trump, renowned entrepreneur and son of the 45th U.S. President, who will discuss Bitcoin’s role in shaping the global economy. Prince Philip of Serbia will share insights into blockchain technologies and their potential for driving global innovation. Dr. Saifedean Ammous, author of The Bitcoin Standard, will explore Bitcoin’s transformative impact on financial systems, while Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, will delve into blockchain’s role in enhancing government services. Changpeng Zhao, founder of Giggle Academy, will discuss blockchain’s applications in education, and David Bailey, CEO of BTC Inc., will provide a forward-looking perspective on Bitcoin’s evolution.

    ALSO READ-Russian minister highlights UAE as largest energy partner in MENA

  • UAE Circular Economy to focus on sustainability & resources

    UAE Circular Economy to focus on sustainability & resources

    UAE Circular Economy Council discusses new plans, proposals for implementation of Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031…reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE Circular Economy Council held its first meeting following its restructuring this year, chaired by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Council.

    The meeting discussed several new proposals and directions for implementing the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031 to contribute to enhancing sustainability and the efficient use of resources. It also discussed the integration of national efforts to accelerate the transition towards an innovative and sustainable circular economy model.

    The Council discussed a number of proposed projects to promote a circular economy in the country, noting the importance of completing work on the first set of policies and moving on to the second set. Besides, the meeting emphasized the importance of leveraging the potential of ‘Aluminium Recycling Coalition’ aimed at bringing about a gradual shift in aluminium recycling operations in the UAE.

    Bin Touq said that the UAE, under its wise leadership’s directives, prioritises the development of an integrated circular economy ecosystem through the launch of national policies, initiatives and strategies that support sustainable economic development in the country, in line with the goals of the “We the UAE 2031” vision.

    “Today’s meeting represents an important milestone in accelerating the country’s transition to a new economic model based on knowledge and innovation, with the circular economy being one of its main pillars. We will work to integrate innovation and digital transformation into circular economy initiatives, and enhance dialogue with relevant federal and local government entities and the private sector to follow up on the implementation of the National Circular Economy Agenda. It consists of 22 policies previously approved by the Council, aimed at consolidating the UAE’s position as a global hub for the circular economy by the next decade,” he added.

    During the meeting, which was held at the headquarters of Landmark Group, the Council reviewed the most important milestones achieved by the UAE in its transition towards a circular economy model. Most notably, these include the integration of circular economy into Investopia Summit’s agenda. The past three editions of the Summit served as an innovative investment platform highlighting global investment opportunities. Furthermore, it facilitated sustainable partnerships in the circular economy sector with a focus on manufacturing, green infrastructure and transportation sectors.

    The UAE Circular Economy Council held four meetings during 2022-2023 as part of its efforts to achieve sustainable development goals and support the country’s transition to a circular economy model.

    After the meeting, Bin Touq witnessed the opening of the ‘Landmark CircuLife’ textile recycling facility, a groundbreaking initiative by the Group and a first of its kind project in the UAE and the wider region. He emphasised that this collaboration reflects the UAE’s dedication to promoting green growth through strong public-private partnerships, reinforcing the country’s role as a global leader in embracing circular economy principles.

    The facility integrates advanced recycling technologies with fibre recovery and customer engagement initiatives. It has the capacity to process over 200,000 tons of textile waste, 90% of which would otherwise be discarded into landfills.

    Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President & CEO of UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), said: “As we reach the midpoint of our 10-year strategy, this milestone offers us an opportunity to both celebrate our achievements and recalibrate our approach where needed. The progress we’ve made is encouraging, but the road ahead demands even greater commitment, innovation, and accountability to clear, measurable targets. We must not only set ambitious goals but also hold ourselves responsible for achieving them through transparent monitoring and regular reporting.”

    Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group, stated: “At Landmark Group, we believe that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that cannot be achieved in isolation. Our journey toward adopting sustainable practices began over a decade ago with the launch of Splash’s sustainable collection. Since then, we have implemented a range of initiatives at every stage of our product lifecycle and operations to reduce our environmental footprint and promote the circular economy.”

    ALSO READ-Starmer Visit Cements Ties With the UAE

  • Starmer Visit Cements Ties With the UAE

    Starmer Visit Cements Ties With the UAE

    HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Welcomes UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Abu Dhabi for Bilateral Talks

    President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in strengthening the historic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

    The meeting, held during Keir Starmer’s first visit to the UAE as prime minister, focused on bolstering bilateral cooperation in areas critical to both nations’ development ambitions. Both leaders explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, defence, and security, emphasizing the untapped potential for further partnership.

    Starmer extended his congratulations to His Highness on the UAE’s 53rd National Day, expressing warm wishes for continued progress and prosperity. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing collaboration in the coming years, building on the robust historical relationship between their nations.

    Discussions also touched on expanding investment and trade, with an emphasis on fostering closer ties between the British and Emirati people. The Prime Minister thanked Sheikh Mohamed for his hospitality and expressed his desire to reciprocate during a future visit to the UK.

    The leaders engaged in detailed discussions on pressing regional and international issues, with particular attention on the evolving situation in Syria. Sir Keir welcomed Sheikh Mohamed’s insights on achieving stability in the Middle East and navigating broader geopolitical challenges.

    Both leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting peace, security, and stability at regional and global levels. They underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving crises and advancing shared goals.

    The meeting was attended by several prominent UAE officials, including H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser; H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation. Senior British and Emirati diplomats and advisors were also present, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

    This meeting underscores the UAE and UK’s shared vision for a future defined by innovation, stability, and prosperity. Both leaders expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead, with plans to deepen their partnership and address global challenges collaboratively.

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  • J&K Expo Attracts Huge Crowd

    J&K Expo Attracts Huge Crowd

    With 30 dedicated stalls, including representation from 12 women entrepreneurs, JKTPO sponsored exhibitors from across Jammu and Kashmir who displayed their unique local artistry, making the pavilion a significant attraction for over four lakh visitors from India and abroad…reports Asian Lite News

    The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) set up and sponsored the Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at the 18th Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX), held in Amritsar from December 5-9.

    An official statement said on Monday that the pavilion, with its impressive showcase of traditional artistry, authentic products, and emerging entrepreneurial talent, became a focal point of the expo, garnering widespread appreciation from visitors, business delegations, and media alike.

    With 30 dedicated stalls, including representation from 12 women entrepreneurs, JKTPO sponsored exhibitors from across Jammu and Kashmir who displayed their unique local artistry, making the pavilion a significant attraction for over four lakh visitors from India and abroad.

    The Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion showcased a unique collection of products, such as Basohli Pashmina Shawls, Kani and Sozni embroidered clothes and stoles, the world-famous Kashmiri saffron, dry fruits and dried vegetables, hand-embroidered Phiran and Kashmiri garments, honey and Rajmash from the Jammu region.

    The pavilion turned into a vibrant hub where visitors not only purchased these exceptional products but also engaged directly with artisans, gaining insight into the stories and dedication behind each creation.

    The event generated significant sales of over Rs 1 Cr and business leads with potential for future orders, promising substantial economic growth for artisans and entrepreneurs.

    PITEX 2024 hosted exhibitors from both within India and abroad, with participants from 15 Indian states and various international representatives showcasing their products.

    The success of the Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at PITEX 2024 reflects the dedication of JKTPO to facilitating market access for local artisans and entrepreneurs. By fostering B2B and B2C engagements, the initiative continues to bridge cultures, support livelihoods, and drive economic growth in the Union Territory.

    Building on the successes of such activities, JKTPO has recently organized key events such as the JK Textile Sourcing Fair 2024 in Srinagar on 28-29 Nov,24, the Basmati Fair in Jammu, and participation in IITF 2024 in Delhi, showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s economic potential.

    Moving forward, JKTPO plans to participate in major events like the India International Mega Trade Fair in Kolkata, Indus Food, MITEX, Surajkund Mela, and Bharat Tex 2025, along with organising the 2nd Agro & Food Fest on January 22, 2025, and the JK Trade Show 2025, Winter edition, January 31, 2025.

    ALSO READ-Omar Abdullah Vows to Revive Industrial Sector

  • Omar Abdullah Vows to Revive Industrial Sector

    Omar Abdullah Vows to Revive Industrial Sector

    On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasiaed the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region…reports Asian Lite News

    Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting local industries in overcoming the challenges they are currently facing.

    Speaking at an event organised by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) at its office, the Chief Minister was felicitated for assuming office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

    “There is no shortage of issues. If I were to claim that these problems have only emerged in the past decade, it would be misleading. These challenges are not new, nor are they solely the result of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. However, the UT transition has undoubtedly compounded these issues,” he stated.

    Highlighting the geographical constraints of the region, the Chief Minister said: “Several challenges stem from our location. Jammu and Kashmir is situated in a corner of the country. Our market is very small, and our raw material base is limited. An industry that relies on importing raw materials and exporting finished products cannot sustain itself without governmental support.

    Reiterating his government’s responsibility, he added, “When we hold your hand and provide support, it is not a reflection of your helplessness or weakness. It is our responsibility, and we will fulfil it.”

    On the tourism potential of Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasiaed the untapped opportunities presented by the large number of pilgrims visiting the region.

    “Over a crore pilgrims visit Jammu for Mata Vaishno Devi every year. If we can successfully divert even 15 per cent of them to local tourist destinations, we would gain 15 lakh tourists immediately. We have managed the entire tourism economy of Kashmir with just 15 lakh tourists,” he remarked.

    He stressed the need to showcase Jammu’s unique cultural heritage.

    “Our Dogra culture is a treasure unique to Jammu. Our traditions, food, and specialities are unmatched and must be leveraged as key selling points for tourism,” he said.

    On the resumption of the now-defunct Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah highlighted its positive impact on Jammu’s vibrancy.

    “The hallmark of Jammu city was the biannual Darbar Move. For six months, people from Srinagar would work here, creating a lively environment. It fostered interaction between people from both sides of the mountains, whether at Wave Mall, Residency Road, or Gole Market. I assure you that we will resume the Darbar Move in the future. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from doing so this time,” he said.

    Discussing the impact of industrial packages, he cautioned against their transient nature. “Industries attracted solely by packages stay only as long as the incentives last. Once the benefits end, they pack up and leave. The industries that endure are those rooted in this land, run by people who are inherently connected to it,” he stated.

    The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges related to lease agreements for institutions and businesses.

    “Today, schools on leased land are being asked to produce 10-year leases, failing which their registration will not be renewed. Similarly, hotels on leased land cannot even make minor repairs due to the absence of valid leases. These issues need immediate attention,” he added.

    Omar Abdullah, in his conclusion, assured his government’s commitment to addressing industrial concerns.

    “Whatever issues you want us to raise with the Finance Minister, please provide me with a detailed note. We will take them up with the Union government and work toward tangible solutions,” he said.

    ALSO READ-India blasts Pakistan for raking Kashmir in UN

  • Former Karnataka CM SM Krishna Passes Away

    Former Karnataka CM SM Krishna Passes Away

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was deeply saddened by Krishna’s demise…reports Asian Lite News

    S. M. Krishna, former Karnataka chief minister and External Affairs Minister, passed away on Tuesday in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness. He was 93. 

    The Karnataka government has declared a holiday on Wednesday as a mark of respect to the leader.

    The mortal remains of Krishna will be kept at his residence in Sadashivanagar on Tuesday for the public and will be taken to Somanahalli in Maddur, Mandya district, his birthplace at 8 a.m. on Wednesday for last rites.

    Krishna was suffering from age-related ailments. He was admitted to the Vydehi Hospital and later shifted to the Manipal Hospital following a lung infection. He was treated at the ICU recently. He breathed his last at his residence in Sadashivanagar.

    He was survived by his wife Prema and two daughters.

    Expressing condolences, President Droupadi Murmu said: “Sad to learn about the demise of S. M. Krishna who served people in various capacities – from a member of the state Assembly and of Parliament to a union minister and governor. As chief minister of Karnataka, he earned people’s affection for his commitment to the development of the state. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.”

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was deeply saddened by Krishna’s demise.

    PM Modi said he had many opportunities to interact with the leader over the years, and will always cherish those interactions.

    PM Modi further wrote on X handle, “SM Krishna was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. He is fondly remembered for his tenure as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, particularly for his focus on infrastructural development. SM Krishna was also a prolific reader and thinker.”

    Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda stated, “I am saddened by the passing away of SM Krishna, my friend and longtime Karnataka colleague. We started in politics around the same time and cultivated very different approaches to development and governance. Om Shanti.”

    Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy stated, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of the veteran leader and statesman, S.M. Krishna, who served with distinction in various high offices, including Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister, Chief Minister, Union Minister, and Governor, contributing immensely to the state and the nation.”

    “On a personal level, his loss brings me great sorrow. I pray that his soul rests in eternal peace and that God grants the strength to his family, supporters, and the people of the state to endure this grief,” Kumaraswamy stated.

    Union Minister Pralhad Joshi remembered former Krishna as an exemplary politician.

    Expressing deep sorrow over the demise of Padma Vibhushan Krishna, who served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, the External Affairs Minister, and the Governor of Maharashtra, Union Minister Joshi stated that Krishna was known for his calm demeanour and gentlemanly leadership.

    He noted that Krishna was a senior leader and a role model for everyone in politics. Union Minister Joshi prayed to God to give strength to his family members and loved ones to bear this loss.

    Former CM B.S. Yediyurappa said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran leader, former Chief and Union Minister, and dear friend, S.M. Krishna. A true statesman and stalwart, his invaluable contributions to our nation and Karnataka will forever be remembered. I feel a sense of deep personal loss. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

    Krishna, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President, led the party to a thumping victory in 1999. He served as the chief minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004 and the Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha and became the External Affairs Minister in the then-PM Manmohan Singh cabinet.

    Krishna cut ties with the Congress and joined the BJP in 2017 but kept a low political profile.

    He announced his retirement from politics on January 7, 2023.

    Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “I am shocked by the demise of former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna. His service to the state and the nation, both as a Union Minister and as the Chief Minister, is unparalleled. Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him, particularly for his contributions to the growth of the IT-BT sectors during his tenure as Chief Minister.”

    “A seasoned statesman, Krishna was a leader without enemies. During the early days of my association with the Congress party, he was my mentor and always a well-wisher,” the CM stated

    “Krishna’s vision, disciplined life, noble conduct, and scholarly nature are exemplary for aspiring politicians. I share in the grief of his family and supporters who are mourning his loss. I pray to God that his soul may rest in peace,” CM Siddaramaiah stated.

    BJP State President and MLA B. Y. Vijayendra expressed deep condolences, stating that with the demise of senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna, the party has lost a guiding force.

    Krishna was born in the village of Somanahalli in Maddur Taluk, Mandya district, Karnataka.

    After completing his primary education in his hometown, he pursued his secondary education at Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala in Mysuru. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Maharaja’s College, Mysuru, and obtained his law degree from University Law College. Additionally, he earned degrees from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and the George Washington University Law School in Washington

    He is remembered for his contributions to the information technology (IT) and biotechnology (BT) sectors and the growth of Bengaluru as the IT capital of the country. He is also known for putting the Brand Bengaluru on the global map.

    ALSO READ-Karnataka govt to build 100 houses in Wayanad

  • INDIA Bloc Demands Immediate Central Intervention in Manipur Crisis

    INDIA Bloc Demands Immediate Central Intervention in Manipur Crisis

    The INDIA Bloc, Manipur, resolves to press for the four demands to the President of India and the Prime Minister, he said in a post on the X…reports Asian Lite News

    The INDIA Bloc parties from Manipur on Monday held a sit-in protest in Delhi demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the violence-hit-state and resolve the 19-month-long ethnic hostilities at the earliest.

    The leaders of the 10-party INDIA bloc while addressing the gathering at Jantar Mantar in the national capital claimed that both the Centre and the state government failed to resolve the ethnic crisis even as the lives of the people were devastated due to the uninterrupted violence.

    The INDIA bloc leader also demanded to sack Chief Minister N Biren Singh for his “complete failure” to deal with the riots between Meitei and the Koki-Zo-Hmar community.

    Many opposition leaders, including Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, Congress’ deputy leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi and CPI General Secretary D Raja among others participated in the protest.

    Ramesh said that Manipur has been inflicted with unprecedented turmoil, continuous curfew, internet ban, high price rise of all commodities, unavailability of medicines, continuous violence, highways blockade, rising extortion, all forms of violent threats and disturbances, complete lawlessness and chaos, complete violation of right to life and right to properties, loss of life, and complete disarray of hope for the youth and total obstruction to the smooth functioning of schools, colleges, universities, and professional institutions in Manipur.

    The INDIA Bloc, Manipur, resolves to press for the four demands to the President of India and the Prime Minister, he said in a post on the X.

    The demands include the Prime Minister visiting Manipur urgently for an immediate restoration of peace and normalcy in the state without affecting the territorial integrity of Manipur.

    “Chief Minister of Manipur should be immediately sacked for allowing Manipur to keep burning for the last 19 months. Further, until peace and normalcy are restored, the INDIA Bloc, Manipur will continue the democratic struggle to bring peace and normalcy to the state. We solemnly declare that we will work together hand in hand irrespective of caste, creed, community, and ethnicity to strengthen the bond of love, unity, and integrity in Manipur,” the Congress leader said.

    Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, state CLP leader Okram Ibobi, K. Ranjit, Lokeshwar Singh, Surjakumar Singh, all Congress MLAs of the state, Manipur CPI (M) leader Kshetrimayum Shanta among others attended the protest.

    CPI leader D. Raja questioned the Central government’s commitment to national unity, highlighting the silence of PM Modi on the Manipur crisis.

    The 10-party INDIA bloc in Manipur on December 6 also urged the Prime Minister to visit Manipur, at the earliest convenience or hold talks with political parties from the state in New Delhi.

    The bloc, led by the Congress, submitted a letter to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on December 6, requesting Modi to visit Manipur to resolve the 19-month-long ethnic conflict.

    Meanwhile, around 20 civil society organisations and student bodies from Imphal Valley have announced plans to hold a rally in Delhi on December 22.

    ALSO READ-Both houses adjourned over Adani, Manipur 

  • Congress Seeks Equal Footing in INDIA Bloc

    Congress Seeks Equal Footing in INDIA Bloc

    This formula, if implemented, could lead to renegotiations within the alliance, potentially unsettling the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), led by Tejashwi Yadav, which has traditionally been the dominant partner in the state…reports Asian Lite News

    Congress’s national secretary and Bihar in-charge Shahnawaz Alam said on Monday that there are no big or small players in the INDIA Bloc.

    “We must reinforce the ideological foundation of the coalition, rather than a hierarchy of power. Congress workers should not view themselves as subordinate to other alliance partners. Any decisions within the alliance would incorporate the input of Congress workers,” he said.

    He said that the distribution of seats should be based on the strike rate—a metric reflecting the performance of parties in recent elections, particularly the Lok Sabha polls.

    This formula, if implemented, could lead to renegotiations within the alliance, potentially unsettling the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), led by Tejashwi Yadav, which has traditionally been the dominant partner in the state.

    The Congress’s proposition to base seat-sharing for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections on the strike rate from the 2024 Lok Sabha elections has introduced a significant challenge for the RJD.

    RJD contested 23 seats and won four, yielding a strike rate of 17 per cent. Congress contested nine seats and won three, achieving a strike rate of 33 per cent.

    CPI (ML), with the highest strike rate, contested three seats and won two, marking 67 per cent success.

    The RJD, traditionally the dominant player in Bihar’s Mahagathbandhan, finds itself with the weakest strike rate. If Congress’s formula is accepted, RJD would lose a significant portion of its negotiating power in seat-sharing arrangements. This could disrupt the established hierarchy within the alliance, wherein RJD has historically been the “big brother.”

    ALSO READ-Congress Attacks Govt Over Rajya Sabha Ruckus

  • ‘Centre Favours Other States Over Kerala’

    ‘Centre Favours Other States Over Kerala’

    Home Minister pointed out that the Kerala government has submitted its memo with an estimate of Rs 2,219.03 crore for recovery and reconstruction only on November 13…reports Asian Lite News

     Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah over delaying the special package to the state for the rehabilitation of the Wayanad landslide victims.

    “This is the worst ever tragedy that the state witnessed but the Centre is trying to run away from doing its job. Home Minister Shah said it’s because of Kerala’s delayed response that funds have not been released so far. But all their (Centre) allegation against the state are baseless,” the Chief Minister said.

    He added that this is not the first time Home Minister Amit Shah has handled any situation like the Wayanad.

    “First, Amit Shah spoke about a nonexistent weather report in the Parliament. But there was no such warning given to us by the Central government. His recent statement again in the Parliament must be seen in the same manner,” the Chief Minister said.

    Earlier, the Home Minister pointed out that the Kerala government has submitted its memo with an estimate of Rs 2,219.03 crore for recovery and reconstruction only on November 13.

    Amit Shah also pointed out that the Centre released the first instalment of Rs 145.60 crore on July 31, and the second instalment of Rs 145.60 crore on October 1.

    “Besides adequate funds of Rs 782.99 crore are available in the State’s SDRF account for relief operations, including the balance of Rs 394.99 crore,” the Home Minister said.

    Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said that during PM Modi’s visit to the state, the state official gave a detailed presentation to the Prime Minister.

    “On August 17, we submitted a memorandum. It’s been more than three months since we submitted the memorandum. During this same time, the Centre extended help to other states but not to Kerala. We submitted another detailed report on November 13th,” the Chief Minister said.

    He added that Tripura, Telangana Uttarakhand, and Bihar all got Central assistance, adding that the Centre is not treating Kerala fairly.

    The Chief Minister said that Kerala should be treated fairly like other states, adding that in the last few years, Kerala has not been treated fairly by the Union government.

    “Our state was also treated differently even during the 108 floods. We are not against other states getting support, but we also should be given our fair share,” the Chief Minister said.

    ALSO READ-‘Kerala open to discuss new projects with Adani group’ 

  • Modi Govt Pushes ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill

    Modi Govt Pushes ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill

    To ensure broad support, the government plans to build consensus on the bill, possibly referring it to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed discussions…reports Asian Lite News

    The Narendra Modi government is moving forward with its “One Nation, One Election” initiative and is preparing to introduce a bill in the Parliament during the current session, sources told.

    The Cabinet has already approved the Ram Nath Kovind Committee’s report on the proposal, which advocates simultaneous elections across the country.

    To ensure broad support, the government plans to build consensus on the bill, possibly referring it to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed discussions. This exercise will pave the way for including opinions from all political parties which will be sending their representatives. Moreover, this will also facilitate other stakeholders, including state Assembly speakers and intellectuals, to share their views. Opinions of the public may also be sought.

    At the same time, however, the implementation of the One Nation, One Election system is also likely to be challenging without a decisive and convincing consensus. The implementation of this plan would require amending the Constitution and for this, at least six bills need to be passed. This will also require a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Needless to say, the ruling NDA coalition holds a simple majority in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. However, obtaining the necessary two-thirds majority will be an uphill task.

    According to the arguments put forward by the government, the simultaneous elections would save time, money, and resources, and prevent the obstacles that are caused by the Model Code of Conduct repeatedly due to one election or the other. The MCC also halts development work during election periods.

    The Opposition at the same time has faulted the proposal, saying that this plan will face logistical challenges. Managing multiple elections will be challenging, says the opposition. The parties in opposition have also called the idea “undemocratic and unconstitutional”.

    Meanwhile, the Committee, headed by former President Kovind, suggested that bipartisan support is crucial for the success of “One Nation, One Election”. It also recommended that the plan can be implemented only after 2029.

    The committee also stressed the need for wider consultations and public engagement to address concerns so as to ensure the idea is viable in the long term. This, however, indicates the complexity of this ambitious electoral reform.

    ALSO READ-‘Modi’s Oversight Drives India’s Growth’