Tag: campaign

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Campaigning ends for Phase 1

The last day of the campaigning for the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections which will take place on April 19 witnessed intense electioneering by the top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday…reports Asian Lite News

Campaigning for 102 parliamentary constituencies distributed across 21 states and Union territories, where voting will be held in the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections on April 19, concluded on Wednesday.

In the first phase, polling will be held in Arunachal Pradesh (2 seats), Assam (5), Bihar (4), Chhattisgarh (1), Madhya Pradesh (6), Maharashtra (5), Manipur (2), Meghalaya (2), Mizoram (1), Nagaland (1), Rajasthan (12), Sikkim (1), Tamil Nadu (39), Tripura (1), Uttar Pradesh (8), Uttarakhand (5), West Bengal (3), Andaman and Nicobar (1), Jammu and Kashmir (1), Lakshadweep (1) and Puducherry (1).

Campaigning for the first phase of polling on April 19 in Uttar Pradesh concluded Wednesday evening, with candidates closing up their campaigns for eight parliamentary seats.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, both members of the opposition’s INDIA bloc, held rallies in Saharanpur and Moradabad on the final day of the campaign.

The seats going to the polls in the first phase on Friday are Saharanpur, Bijnor, Kairana, Muzaffarnagar, Nagina, Moradabad, Rampur, and Pilibhit.

Likewise, campaigning drew to a close in Uttarakhand at 5 pm this evening, Chief Electoral Officer B VRC Purushottam said.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in a roadshow in Haldwani on the last day of the election campaign, earlier on Wednesday.

After winning all five seats in Uttarakhand in the 2014 and 2019 general elections, the BJP is attempting to retain them for a third term.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP’s campaign, built around the development plank, in Madhya Pradesh for the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections that ended on Wednesday.

With the first phase scheduled for April 19, the fate of 88 candidates contesting six seats in the MP will be sealed by voters.

In Maharashtra, campaigning for Lok Sabha elections came to an end in five constituencies of the Vidarbha region on Wednesday evening.

Polling will be held in the constituencies of Nagpur, Ramtek, Bhandara-Gondia, Chandrapur and Gadchiroli in the first phase on April 19.

The campaigning in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur parliamentary constituency ended on Wednesday evening. It is witnessing its first major electoral battle since the abrogation of Article 370.

The polling is slated for the Udhampur Lok Sabha seat in the first phase on April 19 and will decide the fate of 12 contestants.

Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai said, “On April 17 at 6 pm, we suspended all election-related campaigning, and political parties have been directed to not hold campaigning, roadshows, or canvassing other than door-to-door campaigning.”

“Section 144 is also imposed. Flying squad and static surveillance teams have been deployed. Our main objective is a free and fair and inducement-free election,” said Rai.

Meanwhile, campaigning for three Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal – Cooch Behar (SC), Jalpaiguri (SC) and Alipurduars (ST) — going to polls in the first phase on April 19 came to an end at 6 PM on Wednesday.

Altogether 14 candidates, including sitting MP and Union minister Nisith Pramanik, are contesting the parliamentary elections from Cooch Behar.

Verbal exchanges between main rivals Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress over issues such as corruption, poverty, and pre-poll promises dominated the campaigning for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh, which concluded on Wednesday evening.

Naxal-affected Bastar is the only seat among the 11 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state that will vote in the first phase on April 19, an exercise that will take place in the shadow of the major counter-insurgency operation in Kanker district on April 16.

In Mizoram, the campaigning for the lone Lok Sabha seat ended on Wednesday with political parties making last ditch efforts to sweep the voters.

Campaigning for the April 19 simultaneous polls in Arunachal Pradesh came to an end on Wednesday evening, setting the stage to elect two Lok Sabha MPs and 50 lawmakers for the state assembly.

The BJP has already opened its account by securing 10 seats in the assembly in Arunachal.

Campaigning for five Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam, which are due to go for polling on April 19, including the high-profile constituency of Dibrugarh, ended on Wednesday.

The Lok Sabha poll campaigning for 2024, for the first phase of elections, ended at 5 pm on the five Lok Sabha seats in Assam, including the high-profile seat of Dibrugarh, where Union Minister and former Chief Minister of Assam are contesting.

The voting for the Lok Sabha election in the first phase is to be held across 21 states in 102 seats, including five seats in Upper Assam.

The campaign for the Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency and the Ramnagar Assembly constituency by-poll also ended at 5 pm on Wednesday.

All preparations, including security arrangements, have been made for the polling to be held on April 19, an election department official said.

Rallies, public meetings and roadshows marked the two-week-long high-decibel campaign. (ANI)

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Kharge launches nationwide awareness campaign

Party president says Congress party is committed to providing “paanch nyay” with 25 guarantees, five guarantees for each “nyay”…reports Asian Lite News

In a key initiative to boost the party’s prospects in the Lok Sabha polls, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday launched the party’s nationwide door-to-door campaign to distribute the ‘Guarantee Cards’ which list 25 guarantees of the party.

The campaign was launched from the North-East Delhi parliamentary constituency.

Addressing a press conference after launching the campaign, Kharge said the Congress party was committed to providing “paanch nyay” with 25 guarantees, five guarantees for each “nyay”.

The Congress president said that under this campaign, party workers will go door-to-door among all sections of people and distribute cards containing 25 guarantees.

He said these guarantees will be implemented if the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) forms the government at the Centre. “Unlike the BJP and Modi’s guarantees, Congress implements everything it promises,” he said.

He said the Congress-led UPA government introduced welfare schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Food Security Act, Right to Information Act.

Kharge said the Modi government had “not fulfilled promises he had made” like generating two crore jobs every year, doubling the income of farmers or depositing Rs 15 lakh in every Indian’s bank account after getting back the black money stashed in foreign banks.

Kharge said Congress has given “25 guarantees” under ‘Yuva Nyay’, ‘Nari Nyay’, ‘Shramik Nyay’, ‘Kisan Nyay’ and ‘Bhagidari Nyay’.

Elaborating on the guarantees of the Congress, he said that 30 lakh government vacancies pending in various central government departments will be filled under ‘Yuva Nyay’.

Besides, graduates will be provided an apprenticeship with a guarantee of Rs 1 lakh in the first year.

He said a government of INDIA bloc members will also make stringent laws to prevent paper leaks and promised better working rules for gig workers.

Kharge said a corpus fund of Rs 5,000 crore will be created for youth entrepreneurship.

Under ‘Nari Nyay’, one woman from every poor family will be given assistance of Rs 1 lakh annually. Besides, women will get 50 per cent reservation in government jobs.

The salary of Asha and mid-day meal workers will be increased, the Congress chief said.

Under Savitribai Phule Hostel Scheme, the Government of India will build at least one hostel for working women in all the district headquarters and the number of these hostels will be doubled across the country.

To improve the plight of daily wagers, the minimum daily wage will be fixed at Rs 400. Under the Right to Health for All, the poor will be given a health cover of Rs 25 lakh for free treatment, medicine, tests and surgery.

Under Kisan Nyay, a legal guarantee will be provided for the Minimum Support Price, which will be fixed according to Swaminathan Commission Recommendations.

There will be a direct transfer of money within 30 days in case of crop damage. A new import-export policy will be formulated which will watch the farmers’ interests, he said.

The Congress chief said that as part of Bhagidhari Nyay, the 50 per cent cap on reservations will be removed through constitutional amendment.

“Besides, caste census will be carried out for effectively implementing social justice,” he added.

Congress is fighting Lok Sabha polls in Delhi in alliance with Aam Aadmi Party. The party has also reached agreements in other parts of the country with some parties of the INDIA bloc.

Congress mega rally

Kharge, and senior leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi will address a election rally in Jaipur on April 6. Rajasthan Congress spokesperson Swarnim Chaturvedi said the party will organise the mega election rally at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur.

For the preparations for the rally, state Congress has appointed assembly-wise in-charges in Sikar, Jaipur Rural, Jaipur, Alwar, Dausa and Ajmer.

Congress’ top brass is expected to shed light on party’s poll promises in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections during the rally.

Earlier in the day, Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal said that the party will release its vision document on April 5 after “vast deliberations with people from across the country”.

Big push in Arunachal

Meanwhile, Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are likely to visit Arunachal Pradesh to campaign for the party candidates. Elections to the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly and two Lok Sabha constituencies in the state will be held simultaneously on April 19.

The Congress party has prepared a list of the campaigners in Arunachal Pradesh, however, the dates and places have not been fixed yet, party sources said quoting a list issued by AICC general secretary KC Venugopal.

Several other Congress leaders including former union ministers Mukul Wasnik, Jairam Ramesh, Gaurav Gogoi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Karnataka Deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, Actor Raj Babbar, Cricketer Mohd Azharuddin and others will campaign for the party in the state Former chief minister and APCC president Nabam Tuki will lock horns against Union Earth Sciences minister Kiren Rijiju in the Arunachal West Parliamentary seat while former state minister Bosiram Siram will be up against BJP s Tapir Gao for the Arunachal East Parliamentary seat.

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Bollywood Lite Blogs

Ayushmann Partners with Godrej Security Solutions for ‘Desh Ki Tijori’ Campaign

Home security is of utmost importance in this day and age. It should have multiple layers of security along with lockers like Godrej, CCTV cameras, video locks (accessible via phones), and analog locks along with accommodation and everything…Ayushmann speaks with N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Home is a place where everyone wants to feel comfortable and secure, whether they are celebrities, ordinary folks, or a beruacrate. However, in today’s society, even at home, one must take extra precautions to feel safe. In a recent development synonymous with the Indian ‘Tijori’ – Godrej Security Solutions unveil their latest campaign ‘Desh Ki Tijori’ with Bollywood star and brand ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana. 

Ayushmann, who has made a name for himself in the industry, chats about home security, impending festival preparations, and more.

Read on…

Given your hectic schedule, could you tell us how you manage your professional obligations while also maintaining a healthy lifestyle? Would you wish to reveal the fitness mantra’s secret?

Ayushmann: Despite my busy schedule, I like to have a balance between work and personal life. And, it is imperative if your schedule is full and you are working 12 hours a day, you have to lead a healthy lifestyle. I exercise 5 days a week. I eat right and sleep at least 7 hours if not 6 hours. That’s very important for me. The secret of the fitness mantra is to follow your gut, and instinct, and listen to your body. Don’t overdo it because you need to save your energy for creative outbursts too.

Ganesh Chathurthi has just passed, and we are all gearing up for Durga Puja, Navratri, and Diwali. How are you getting ready for the holiday season?

Ayushmann: The festive season is also very busy for artists because we perform, go to events, and are busy with work, but, in addition to that you need friends and family. The festive season is in the air and the weather is beautiful at this time of the year. Also during the festive season you get to work with legacy brands like Godrej, which is Desh ki Tijori. It is a legacy and they’ve been securing valuables for generations. And, they have this Diwali campaign running.

In today’s tech-savvy world, everyone wants the best gadgets and appliances at home. When it comes to your home, what are the ‘smart’ solutions that you like?

Ayushmann: I have a Godrej Ritz locker, it is a digital locker with a biometric scanner built-in alarms, etc. I’m glad about how Godrej has evolved over the years and it’s a great combination of trust, innovation, and legacy.

Can you share a personal experience or anecdote that highlights the importance of security in your own life?

Ayushmann: Home security is of utmost importance in this day and age. It should have multiple layers of security along with lockers like Godrej, CCTV cameras, video locks (accessible via phones), and analog locks along with accommodation and everything.

Before the year ends what are a few things you are most excited about?

Ayushmann: I’m excited about this festive season, events and the wedding season is also productive for artists. The weather is also great. I am also excited about a couple of films that are not yet announced so feeling a little sad about this.

Lastly, could you tell us what ‘Desh Ki Tijori’ is?

Ayushmann: I’m proud to be associated with this brand which is synonymous with Indian Homes. The brand – Godrej itself is more than 125 years old they made the first Indian locker in 1902 and today in 2023 they have so many innovations and solutions that even the Tijorihas evolved and digitalized to suit modern consumers like me.

ALSO READ-Ayushmann feels children at risk need to be protected

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Levi’s Launches ‘For Now, For A Lifetime’ Campaign

In pairing a dark denim shirt and lighter high-loose jeans or a perfectly coordinated, jumpsuit like look, Deepika Padukone brings a fresh and modern take to denim in this new campaign…reports Asian Lite News

It takes just seven seconds to turn a “yes” into a “no”, before a decision made from instinct gives way to logic, reason, and hesitation. Every experience born from saying “yes” opens something hidden within each of us, unlocking something new– from what moves us, what makes us and even what we can’t stand. Today, the iconic Levi’s® brand launched its campaign “For Now, For A Lifetime” that celebrates these moments and how they go onto be memories that stay with us, and ultimately shape each and every one of us.

In pairing a dark denim shirt and lighter high-loose jeans or a perfectly coordinated, jumpsuit like look, Deepika Padukone brings a fresh and modern take to denim in this new campaign. Anchored by iconic product – timeless, but always on trend blue jeans, the for-all-seasons trucker jacket and a wide range of much-loved graphic tees.

“The ‘For Now, For A Lifetime’ campaign is an embodiment of what it truly means to Live in Levi’s®and how our product is so deeply woven into our consumers’ lives. This campaign, featuring Deepika Padukone, is a celebration of moments when you can truly be your most authentic self. Enabling this for our consumers is what we strive to do, from how we create our product to how we bring it alive for our consumers.” said Amisha Jain, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, South Asia-Middle East, Africa and Non-EU markets (SAMEA), Levi Strauss & Co.

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Interview Lifestyle Lite Blogs

‘Open communication is key in every relationship’

The film leverages a playful, humourous twist in the end which ultimately shows how kindness is sexy and goes a long way in making meaningful connections…reports Asian Lite News

Kindness is one of the most attractive qualities in a person and 41 percent of Indian Gen Z respondents on the social networking app, Bumble, consider being unkind to strangers as a deal breaker in a relationship. Bumble also found that an overwhelming majority (76 percent) of those surveyed stated that how they define what makes a great partner has changed dramatically over the past five years. 46 percent of Indian respondents say that they are no longer willing to date someone who doesn’t make time for them and 44 percent of respondents say they are no longer willing to put up with toxic behaviours.

The women-first dating app launched a global integrated campaign titled Kindness is Sexy featuring new content with actor Aditya Roy Kapoor. This partnership comes at a time when singles in India are more focused on kindness as a key element of their dating decisions. According to its latest survey, an overwhelming majority (81percent) of respondents in India agree that kindness is sexy now more than ever before and 56 percent of respondents value kindness over physical attributes in a potential partner.

“When we approach dating with kindness, we help create an environment of respect and compassion, and for connections to grow,” said Whitney Wolfe Herd, founder and CEO of Bumble. “Kindness is a core value here at Bumble, and we know it is the driving force behind our mission of creating healthy and equitable relationships. This new content helps redefine the idea of attraction and encourages us to never lose sight of the most valuable traits in a relationship.”

The campaign’s new film embodies this sentiment as it features popular actor, Aditya Roy Kapoor exploring modern online dating as he redefines stereotypical tropes of sexy through the lens of different facets of ‘kindness’ in a relationship—respect, vulnerability to empathy. The film leverages a playful, humourous twist in the end which ultimately shows how kindness is sexy and goes a long way in making meaningful connections.

Speaking on this partnership, actor Aditya Roy Kapoor shares, “At the end of the day, the heart of everything lies at being good to people around you, including your romantic relationships. I think it’s great what Bumble is doing by telling everyone, who is on their platform and whoever wants to join, that what matters is being good to each other, being accountable and responsible on the platform. By showing kindness is sexy, I think they have set the tone very clearly about the kind of interactions and the kind of people they want on the platform – I think more power to Bumble for doing that!”

We caught up with Aditya Roy Kapur to get his opinion and thoughts regarding the campaign and dating:

According to you, what are the simple acts of kindness that can make a positive impact in the dating culture these days?

Aditya: I think open communication is key in every relationship, being open to listening and understanding each other is an act of kindness. So I would say being comfortable with each other is important and expressing gratitude in any kind of relationship goes a long way too!

Any tips for your fans to make kindness a habit?

Aditya: I think whenever you think someone is doing something nice, make them know that you notice and appreciate it.  It feels nice to know that someone has noticed good things that you do and good qualities, if they have been nice to you or checked in with you – let them know that you notice because it matters to them that you see them for the good.

How does it feel to associate with Bumble for Kindness is Sexy Campaign? What message do you hope to communicate through this collaboration?

Aditya: What Bumble is trying to put across is something that resonated with me. I think being kind, asking people how you like to be treated with empathy should be at the core of any healthy relationship, whichever form it may take. So, when I heard of the campaign and what its message was, I looked at it only as something that can be positive, and I felt that Bumble always goes about putting their ideas across in a fun way. I really liked the stuff that they have done for their other campaigns as well. So, it was a really exciting prospect to collaborate with them on something that I felt would be fun, interesting and also a positive message.

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India News Politics

High-octane campaigning in Karnataka ends

Bengaluru, May 08 (ANI): Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra waves as she holds a roadshow for the Karnataka Assembly elections, at Vijayanagar, in Bengaluru on Monday. (ANI Photo)

The Lingayat and Vokkaliga voters will play a major factor in the elections. Lingayats comprise 17 per cent of the population and Vokkaligas 11 per cent…reports Asian Lite News

The high-voltage campaign for the May 10 assembly elections in Karnataka ended on Monday with top leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding 19 public meetings and six roadshows while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi camped in the state for 12 days.

All three major political parties in the state – the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress and the Janata Dal-Secular (JDS) have put all their efforts to woo the voters, making promises and launching accusations at each other to secure a majority in the state’s 224-seat Assembly. The Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark to form the government is 113 seats.

The BJP which is facing an air of anti-incumbency factor, is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority.

The Lingayat and Vokkaliga voters will play a major factor in the elections. Lingayats comprise 17 per cent of the population and Vokkaligas 11 per cent.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the party will return to power with a full majority.

Shah held a mega roadshow in Doddaballapura on Sunday. “We will win the elections by full majority or at least half a mark plus 15 seats. In these four years, Yediyurappa and Bommai government has done a lot of work,” the Union Home Minister told ANI.

Significantly, Karnataka is the only state in the South where BJP is in power.

With top leadership including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah campaigning for the party, BJP put all its might to strengthen its support base.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed 19 public meetings and held six roadshows. Amit Shah held 16 public rallies and 14 roadshows. BJP chief JP Nadda held 10 public meetings and 16 roadshows.

Hectic electioneering by leaders of various political parties saw BJP allowing Union Ministers and Chief Ministers to campaign with their full force while Congress putting its chief ministers including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as star campaigners.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held four election rallies and held a roadshow. Further, several union ministers including Nirmala Sithraman, Nitin Gadkari, S Jaishankar, Ashwini Vaishnav, Smriti Irani and Jyotiraditya Scindia.

BJP also pitted several chief ministers including UP CM Yogi Adityanath, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his Maharashtra counterpart Eknath Shinde in the campaign fray of Karnataka.

The Congress on the other hand worked hard to wrest power from the BJP that is striving to break the 38-year-old pattern of alternating governments and retain its power in the state.

Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, held various roadshows, rallies and elections campaigns.

With the war of words between top guns of all the major political parties, the campaigns of the election of the southern citadel saw allegations and accusations flying thick and fast. (ANI)

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Health Lite Blogs

‘Think and act before time’

Mary Kom spreads awareness about Cancer.(photo:IANSLIFE)

With Cancer, the earlier you detect the condition, the higher are the chances of a better outcome. It’s like knowing every move of your opponent…says Mary Kom

For its “Early Detection of Cancer” Campaign, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Mary Kom, the head of the athletes commission, have partnered with American Oncology Institute (AOI), one of the leading cancer hospital chains in South Asia. The programme aims to raise awareness of routine screenings and early cancer diagnosis across the nation, particularly in the Northeast where cancer incidence is highest.

About 1.5 million new cancer cases are anticipated in India annually, but awareness of routine screening remains pitifully low, according to the NCRP report 2020. The majority of patients in the nation are also diagnosed with severe illness (Stages 3-4). In order to identify the signs and symptoms as soon as possible, early detection is crucial.

Can people with a family history of colorectal cancer reduce their own risk.(PHOTO:IANSLIFE)

Therefore, as part of this campaign, AOI and Mary Kom also released a little movie with a focus on public health. By employing phrases like “think before time” and “act before time,” the movie masterfully captures the spirit of early cancer diagnosis and encourages frequent cancer screening among the general audience.

Pleased on the association, Mary Kom said: “Just as for an athlete one of the most important things is to be well prepared for every situation, to be able to beat your opponent and win the game, the same is with cancer where early diagnosis is much like developing your defensive skills. In fact, regular screening increases chances of detecting certain cancers early.”

She further added: “With Cancer, the earlier you detect the condition, the higher are the chances of a better outcome. It’s like knowing every move of your opponent. Through this association, I hope to spread the importance of early detection of cancer and empower each and every individual so that they are well prepared and lead a healthy life.”

Over 10,000 people have been successfully screened by AOI’s free cancer screening camps, which are frequently organised across its 16 units. The goal of AOI’s awareness campaign is to raise awareness of the value of early cancer detection among a sufficient number of people. The slogan “we journey with you” is further supported by this by educating and empowering the general public.

Speaking about early detection, Dr Jagprag Singh Gujral, Group CEO, CTSI, South Asia, said: “With the increasing rate of cancer in the country, it is imperative to spread awareness about early detection and diagnosis of various types of cancers. We are glad to be associated with Mary Kom for the enormous task of voicing out the importance of regular screening and early detection of Cancer which can significantly improve survival rates and outcomes. AOI has always remained at the core of offering precision cancer care solutions and with this association; we take a step ahead in our commitment.”

High-Fibre Diet May Lower Colon Cancer Risk

Tina Choudhury, Campaign Lead, CTSI South Asia, said: “Awareness is the key to early detection of Cancer which also resonates in all our brand campaigns. To amplify our brand’s messaging further, we are delighted to have associated with Mary Kom. She is the true advocate to drive our brand narration on ‘early detection’ while connecting it with her boxing principles of moving before the opponent hits or being prepared. We believe that she will be the perfect motivator to encourage people for early diagnosis of cancer and regular screening.”

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India News Politics

BJP campaign across 93 seats today

Shah will address four rallies in Khambhat, Sabarmati, Tharad and Disha. Nadda will address four rallies in Shahera, Chanasma, Siddhpur and Nikol assembly seats…reports Asian Lite News

The Bharatiya Janata Party will organise a second campaign outreach programme in Gujarat with 93 election rallies in 93 assembly seats today after the saffron party had organised 89 such rallies in 89 assembly seats on November 18, media reported.

The saffron party is targeting a record win in Gujarat as top leaders of the party, including PM Modi, home minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda and other leaders are campaigning in the state.

The senior leaders will cover 93 assembly seats with a rally in each constituency today.

Among the leaders, home minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, state union minister Gajendra Shekhawat, party general secretary Vinod Tawde will address four rallies each.

Shah will address four rallies in Khambhat, Sabarmati, Tharad and Disha. Nadda will address four rallies in Shahera, Chanasma, Siddhpur and Nikol assembly seats.

Himachal Pradesh CM Jairam Thakur, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Maharashtra deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis will address three rallies each in Gujarat on Tuesday. Union ministers Arjun Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, Ajay Bhatt, party MP Manoj Tiwari and Ravi Kishan are some of those who will address two rallies each, it was reported.

Rebels suspended

 In the poll-bound Gujarat, state BJP Chief C R Patil on Sunday suspended seven rebels from Saurashtra and South Gujarat for filing their nomination as independent candidates.

Party media coordinator Yagnesh Dave said the party has suspended Harsad Vasava (Nandod constituency- Narmada district), Arvindbhai Ladani (Keshod- Junagadh), Chhatrasinh Gunjarsaria (Dhrangadhra – Surendranagar), Ketan Patel (Pardi – Valsad), Bharat Chavda (Rajkot rural – Rajkot), Uday Shah (Veraval – Gir Somnath) and Karan Baraiya from Rajula in Amreli district for anti-party activities.

This time the BJP is facing more revolts on many seats as compared to the Congress, said Dilop Patel, a political analyst.

Madhu Srivastav is contesting from Vaghodia (Vadodara), Dinesh Patel from Padra, Dhavalsinh Zala from Bayad and cooperative leader Mavji Desai from Dhanera.

On many seats, workers are contesting against party candidates like Rajulben Desai has filed nomination from Deesa seat, Alpesh Thakor from Gandhinagar South, Shankar Chaudhhary from Tharad, V D Zala’s from Himatnagar.

The rebels are calling them parachute candidates and are of the view that the party should have fielded only local candidates.

Some more suspensions are likely this week, as those who are contesting as independent and have not resigned from the the BJP, are likely to face action, said sources.

Kharge to campaign in Gujarat from Saturday

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge set to campaign in Gujarat from November 26 to 28, media reported.

Kharge will address a public meeting in Ahmedabad on November 26 and is likely to address a press conference the next day, PTI reported, citing sources.

He will address a public meeting in Indore after participating in the Bharat Jodo Yatra with Rahul Gandhi on November 27. The yatra enters Madhya Pradesh on November 23.

Kharge will address another public meeting near Gandhinagar on November 28, it was reported.

The Gujarat assembly elections will be held in two phases on December 1 and 5. Results will be declared on December 8.

Other details of Kharge’s poll meetings are being worked out, the sources said.

The new Congress president, who took over from Sonia Gandhi recently, had earlier addressed public meetings in Himachal Pradesh, where assembly elections were held on November 12.

ALSO READ-Gujarat polls: BJP nominates 17 turncoats, repeats 69

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Arab News Dubai UAE News

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism unveils new campaign at ATM 2022

Marking the next chapter in tourism marketing, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RATKDA) unveils an all-new brand campaign at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022…reports Asian Lite News

Building on the successful launch of its new vision and brand identity at last year’s ATM, RAK Calling uses integrated social media platforms to follow a group of influencer friends as they discover the nature Emirate. In collaboration with renowned content creators from Europe and the Middle East, the digital-first campaign showcases the diversity of Ras Al Khaimah and a myriad of tourism experiences across its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, sprawling deserts and majestic mountains. Locations include the beautiful Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah and Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, with its iconic zipline, unique dining experience Puro 1484 and new and upcoming attractions Jais Wings, RAK Airventure, Jais Sledder and the Wingsuit Diving Platform taking center stage. 

Appealing to those who cherish responsible, meaningful and truly memorable experiences in the new era of travel, RAK Calling will resonate with those seeking ‘a sense of place’ and wanting to ‘live their moments.’ It joins several other leading and emerging destinations that have focused on purposeful, engaging content, including Iceland and New Zealand. Launched today (9th May), creative assets will be released in the Middle East and Europe across multiple languages via digital and social media channels. 

“This campaign marks an exciting next step in providing visitors with immersive content that not only highlights our iconic locations but also gives a sense of how Ras Al Khaimah can make you feel,” said Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. “We recognise how important different mediums are in creating something that can easily be understood and remembered by intended audiences. We saw this first-hand when we launched our new brand identity last year with a razor focused approach that was instrumental in helping us achieve almost pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2021. With RAK Calling, we are on the cusp of the metaverse; it’s an exciting new chapter in the destination’s virtual presence.”

He further added: “This campaign also represents other emerging destinations that don’t have large scale budgets but can creatively work with content makers to develop something super compelling and relevant to today’s audiences.”

The new campaign stars Egyptian actor Sherif Fayed (@sheriffayed) paragliding over the Hajar Mountains in a teaser for the soon-to-be launched Jais Wings experience, as well as Saudi mountaineer Raha Moharrak (@rahamoharrak) experiencing the thrill of the Jebel Jais Flight and UAE-based radio host Kris Fade (@krisfade) rock climbing at Bear Grylls Explorers Camp. Other highlights include:

‘Emirati batman’ Khalifa Al Ghafri (@khalifa_alghafri_uae), Dani Roman (@daniroman_) and Marco Fuerst (@fuerstmarco) gliding over Jebel Jais from the Wingsuit Diving Platform – the first base jump platform in the UAE recently opened for professional base jumpers and wing suit flyers

Dany Neville (@danyneville) hosting a DJ set whilst soaring over Ras Al Khaimah with RAK Airventure, the Emirate’s new tethered hot air balloon experience

Jessica Kahawaty (@jessicakahawaty) and Enjy Kiwan (@enjykiwan) taking on the mountain biking trails at Jebel Jais

Mad Shadz (@madshadz) conquering his fears on the Jais Sledder, the region’s longest toboggan run

Arabian Gazelles (@arabiangazelles) taking on the picturesque mountain roads and hairpin bends

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German model and reality television star Fiona Erdmann (@fionaerdmann) enjoying the view from 1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the UAE

As part of its digital-first approach, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Authority has also unveiled two redesigned websites for the destination, reflecting the new brand identity announced last year. “We are constantly innovating to provide incredible and seamless experiences for our visitors, which starts even before they set foot in our beautiful Emirate. In the new era of travel, people research their destination in detail before making an informed choice. Our new websites give them a real feel for what our Emirate offers and provide both inspiration and details to make their visit truly memorable,” added Phillips.

To find out more about Ras Al Khaimah’s new campaign, check out YouTube or download directly HERE.  Alternatively, check out the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority stand at Arabian Travel Market, ME3310.

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Labour fuels campaign to retain Bastions

Leaders claimed the party is running a campaign based on their progressive agenda and Tories’ discrimination against the common Londoners…reports Asian Lite News

London Mayor Sadiq Khan and senior leaders intensify their campaigns to retain Labour controlled boroughs in the forthcoming local elections on 5th May. Despite Partygate, the Conservatives are just 5 point behind Labour in voting intention polls. Every council seat in London’s 32 boroughs is up for election on 5 May. Labour currently controls 21 of London’s 33 councils

Mayor Sadiq, local MPs and senior leaders visited many places to support the campaign.

“From Waltham Forest to Wandsworth, Camden to Croydon – we have some truly brilliant local election candidates committed to their communities,” the Mayor tweeted after the visits. “Lovely to meet so many of them this weekend – and huge thanks to the hundreds of supporters who joined us.”

Leaders claimed the party is running a campaign based on their progressive agenda and Tories’ discrimination against the common Londoners.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson attends a special meeting of the North Atlantic Council and a G7 leaders meeting at the NATO Headquarters in Brussels during the Ukraine situation. Picture by Andrew Parsons / No 10 Downing Street

The party is accusing the Boris government of “abandoning” London during the cost of living crisis. Studies show nearly 15% of London of households were in fuel poverty even before energy prices rose by an average of 54% this year.

Voters were urged to “send a message” to the Tories about their “pathetic response” to the cost of living crisis. Other issues on debate are climate emergency, council tax, protecting green spaces, and the housing crisis.

Labour says in London it has presided over a resurgence in council house building, the highest since the 1970s. In March 2022, it reached the target of starting more than 10,000 council homes.

During an event to launch the campaign at Barnet, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the prime minister Boris Johnson and his government are hopelessly detached from the concerns of ordinary Londoners.

“Whether it is their arrogance over the parties in Downing Street, their meagre response to a rising energy crisis or their indifference to the spiralling cost of living, the Conservatives have run out of ideas,” he told the audience.

Sir Keir said that while prices are going “through the roof”, wages are going “through the floor”.

He said Labour would put a one-off windfall tax for oil and gas companies to take £600 off the bills of people who are struggling.

 “This is our chance to turn Barnet red, to keep London red and to show what a difference it makes to have a Labour party that is on your side,” he said.

Mayor Sadiq Khan said the Boris government is “the most anti-London government in recent history”.

Mr Khan also said the government was “levelling down our city and abandoning Londoners just when they need more support”.

He added: “Against the backdrop of more than a decade of cuts to local services, Londoners are facing a triple whammy of energy price hikes, tax increases and rising inflation.”

 According to government figures, two London boroughs are among the 10 most deprived authorities in England. Barking and Dagenham and Hackney, both run by Labour, ranked among the lowest on the Index of Multiple Deprivation. Three further boroughs, Islington, Newham and Tower Hamlets, are among the 32 most deprived areas of England.

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