News Highlights: Bajrang Punia to return Padma Shri

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"Everyone knows that Arvind Kejriwal is in vipassana since December 19, then who was served the summons? This entire case is politically motivated, and the script is written in BJP office," says AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar.

Incharge, Superintendent, Surat Smriti Hospital Arvind Pandey says, "All the clinical departments are advised to get the patients with such symptoms tested and treated accordingly. Two wards are ready for suspected and positive patients. Preparations are there. We are getting the ventilators tested for proper functioning. We also keep auditing oxygen plants timely."

Congress MP Deepender S Hooda says, "Priyanka Gandhi met wrestler Sakshi Malik. Today's visit did not have any political motive. This is an injustice to our female wrestlers. Priyanka Gandhi and the Congress party will support them till the end."

PM Modi tweets, "My Dear Friend President Emmanuel Macron, we eagerly look forward to receiving you as the Chief Guest at the 75th Republic Day. We will also celebrate India-France strategic partnership and shared belief in democratic values. Bientôt !"

"In Gandhinagar's Gift City, the alcohol ban is being lifted, and it's been decided to remove the prohibition. Now people will consume it, and it will impact Gujarat in a negative way. No idea what kind of profit the Gujarat government is seeing in this," says Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil on the Gujarat government exempting employees, officials, and visitors in Gift City from the alcohol ban.

Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant on the preparations for new Covid JN.1 variant, says, "We have total isolation beds near about 22,445, oxygen beds 35,000, ICU beds near about 10,000, ventilators beds near about 6,500. So there is no fear. The information we received about the variant says that it's not that dangerous."

Congress president and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge writes a letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.

Kharge writes, "I would like to bring to your attention that multiple notices were submitted under the relevant rules of the Rules and Procedure of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to address the pressing issue of the breach of Parliament security. The Opposition parties were prepared to engage in a meaningful discussion on the matter. I want to reiterate my commitment to open discussion and dialogue. I am more than willing to engage in a meeting with you at a mutually convenient date and time in the near future to address these concerns constructively."

"I am returning my Padma Shri": Wrestler Bajrang Punia writes to PM Modi.

LG Manoj Sinha at the special session on the scope of industry in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), says, "I can say that you will find a better atmosphere in J&K compared to West Bengal. I invite you to come there, and you will also say the same thing."

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar on the alleged incident of cleaning of toilets by school children in Andrahalli Government Primary School, says, "We will not allow such incidents to take place. Action has been taken immediately. A case has also been filed. The Head Master has been suspended. We do not want children to be used for these activities. This is a very serious incident."

Sakshi Malik quit wrestling as Brij Bhushan aide Sanjay Singh elected WFI president. And, Bajrang Punia has return to PM Modi saying he will return Padma Shri in protest against Sanjay Singh's election as WFI chief.

France president Emmanuel Macron writes on social networking platform X, "Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend Narendra Modi. India, on your Republic Day, I’ll be here to celebrate with you!"

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin says, "During the floods in the state, several relief works were done and our ministers and DMK leaders were on the ground to serve people. We announced to provide Rs 6,000 to the people affected by floods and finished our promise within 2 weeks. 98% work of the distribution of money to the people of Chennai, Chengalpet, Thiruvallore and Kanchipuram have been completed."

Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, on the consecration ceremony of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, says, "January 22, 2024, is as important as August 15, 1947 was, it is as much as getting back Kargil was."

Prominent Congress leader made video of oppn MP mimicking vice president, nothing can be more condemnable. Unfortunate decision by Opposition to 'boycott' discussion on criminal law bills in Parliament: Amit Shah in Chandigarh

Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) on 22nd December, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of Haryana to set up 2nd Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM), in Haryana, at Kansala, in Rohtak. Spread over 5 acres, the existing ITI Kansala will be upgraded to a JIM with an investment of 5.8 crore as a CSR activity of the company. The MoA was signed by Dr. Vivek Aggarwal, Director General, Skill Development & Industrial Training, Government of Haryana and Rahul Bharti, Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, Maruti Suzuki India Limited

CAQM Sub-Committee decided to revoke 8-point action plan as per GRAP III as Delhi’s AQI crosses 409 today.

Pre-summit seminar on Chemicals and Petrochemicals in Bharuch on December 23

Under the theme 'FutureChem Gujarat: Shaping Tomorrow’s Chemical & Petrochemical Industry', the event anticipates over RS 34,733 crore in proposed investments.

Delhi HC asks P Chidambaram to reply to CBI’s plea against trial court’s order to supply un-relied upon documents to him in Aircel-Maxis case

Top 20 IBC cases must be reviewed monthly by MDs of PSBs as there are delay in admission of cases: Financial services secretary

Finance Minister to review of NARCL soon: Financial services secretary

Congress MP KC Venugopal says, "The opposition is united. The country is united. The way this government of India is destroying democratic values and even parliamentary conventions, no one can digest this and that is why the parties of the entire INDIA bloc are protesting here at Jantar Mantar."

Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa on INDIA bloc protest against mass suspension of MPs, says, "Sending the opposition out and passing the bills without a discussion, silencing those who demand an answer on the smoke bomb, then where is the democracy? If they don't want to give statements on China and Pakistan, then how will the country function? They don't care about them (the soldiers). They are only concerned about how they can send the MPs out and do whatever they want."

Gujarat Congress President Shaktisinh Gohil on Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah travelling in a chartered plane, says, “When PM Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat, he travelled in the costliest aircraft brought in especially for him from UAE.”

Union Minister Anurag Thakur says, "INDI Alliance is creating a north and south divide, cultural divide. After the failure of the elections in 3 states, their morale has gone down. The country wanted them to be united during the incident that happened in the parliament. They just want to stand outside the parliament and mimic the Vice President of India. It was shameful that a senior leader of Congress was making the video. It shows how sincere they are towards the constitutional bodies. They have not mocked an individual, but the institution. He's the chairman of Raya Sabha and Vice President of India. He comes from the Jat and a farmer community. Rahul Gandhi must apologize to the nation."

Live news updates: Pakistan SC grants bail to Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Cypher case

Mother Sudesh Malik on Olympic medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik quitting her game, says, “This is an irreparable loss and we are deeply hurt. Even after protesting for 40 days, she didn’t get justice. Younger girls in the sport will be disheartened seeing her lose her fight for justice… She was practising day and night to win a gold medal in the next Olympics. It will take time for her to overcome this trauma.”

Sakshee Malikkh quit wrestling as Brij Bhushan aide Sanjay Singh elected WFI president.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George on the Covid situation in the state, says, "There is nothing to worry about. We have found a slight increase in the number of COVID cases. A state-level meeting and a ministerial-level meeting were held. We decided to start genomic sequencing back in November. In November, a 79-year-old woman was found active JN 1. She's all right now. The number of tests in Kerala is high when compared to other states. The situation is totally under control. We have to expect more cases because the airport surveillance done in Singapore Airport shows that 19 passengers from India were found with JN 1."

"Ask BJP in what plane PM Modi travels," says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah.

Additional Industries Commissioner Kuldeep Arya on the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit, says, "Gujarat is already a leader in several sectors including textile, pharma, ceramics, and gem jewelry, so our focus this time is on upcoming sectors like semiconductors, space, fintech, and renewal energy. We wish investors would come and invest in these sectors. We have an investment facilitator portal where more than 39,000 such interests have been registered. We have the detailed program listed on the website, every sector will have the opportunity for networking and value-addition.”

"When there are 10-15 flights between Delhi and Bengaluru everyday, then to travel in a luxurious aircraft in such a situation is completely wrong. Then, on the other hand, they (Congress) are asking for donations," says Union minister Pralhad Joshi on the row over Karnataka CM Siddaramiah travelling in a private jet to Delhi.

Nearly 7 months post WHO's removal of the Covid-19 public health emergency, the Omicron variant evolves into new subvariants, with JN.1 causing a surge. Experts advise vigilance, cautioning against panic, and suggest waiting to declare a new wave. Testing for symptoms is crucial, but former WHO chief scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan notes that seasonal illnesses with Covid-like symptoms exist. As JN.1 gains attention as a WHO "variant of interest," experts stress ongoing monitoring for potential successors. Stay informed for updates on the evolving situation and health recommendations.

Rahul Gandhi criticizes the suspension of 150 MPs, asserting it mutes the voices of 60% of India. Referring to recent incidents, he questions the security breach in Parliament, linking it to youth unemployment. Gandhi emphasizes the widespread joblessness, attributing the protests to the frustration of the unemployed youth.

Amidst nationwide protests against the suspension of 146 MPs during the Winter Session, INDIA bloc leaders convened at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, under 'Save Democracy.' Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi led the Delhi protest. Delhi Congress Chief Lovely termed the mass suspension as dictatorial, lamenting its impact on democratic values. He highlighted the MPs' right to question in Parliament, stressing the undemocratic nature of the move. The nationwide demonstration across district headquarters seeks to voice objection to what's perceived as an insult to Parliament's sanctity.

Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge questions PM Modi's assertion of winning 400 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, expressing skepticism about his popularity. Kharge takes a jab, asking, "What do you have to win 400 seats?" He points to recent outcomes in Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh, suggesting potential challenges for the Prime Minister. Kharge predicts the electorate, once supportive, might bring him down.

Dr. Gautam Bhansali, a consultant physician at Bombay Hospital, shares insights on the new JN.1 variant, describing it as a mild family member of the omicron variant. He reassures the public, stating it is comparable to common flu or viral fever, with no significant cause for concern. Dr. Bhansali emphasizes the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing severe cases and potential waves. While acknowledging a possible surge in cases, he credits India's high double vaccination rate for the milder impact. Caution is advised for vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens, and those with underlying health conditions due to their lower immunity.

The Rouse Avenue Court extends the judicial custody of former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia until the next hearing on January 19, 2024, in the Delhi excise policy case. The court grants the accused's counsel time until January 15 to inspect documents at the CBI headquarters. Additionally, the court directs the CBI to assign enough officers to assist in the inspection and file a compliance report. Stay tuned for further developments on this legal matter.

In response to the emergence of a new Corona variant in various states, including Kerala, Dehradun's Doon Medical College's government hospital enhances its isolation ward and facilities. Uttarakhand currently boasts 5893 oxygen-supported isolation beds and over 3100 trained paramedical staff. Nodal Officer Anurag Aggarwal assures the public not to panic, emphasizing timely testing and adherence to the advisory. Increased testing for the new variant is planned, with updates on patient numbers available on the portal. Stay informed for further developments.

A Noida resident tests positive for COVID-19, marking the first case in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar in months. The sample is sent to Delhi for genome sequencing.

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has declined to impose restrictions on the sale of Jet Airways aircraft to Malta-based Ace Aviation. The anticipated sale is poised to inject Rs. 400 crore into the airline. This decision underscores a significant development in the ongoing resolution process for Jet Airways, providing potential financial relief to the beleaguered airline. Stay tuned for further updates on this matter.

India recorded 640 new COVID-19 infections on Friday, bringing the active cases to 2,997 from the previous day's count. The total COVID-19 tally in the country is now 4.50 crore (4,50,07,212), with the death toll reaching 5,33,328, including one new fatality reported from Kerala. The data, updated at 8 am, also indicates a national recovery rate of 98.81%, with 4,44,70,887 individuals having recuperated. The case fatality rate remains at 1.19%, and the country has administered 220.67 crore doses of COVID-19 vaccine, according to the health ministry's website. Stay informed for further updates on the situation.

Following US President Joe Biden's inability to travel to India for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, India has reportedly extended an invitation to French President Emmanuel Macron to be the chief guest, as per sources quoted by PTI.
If Macron accepts the invitation, it would mark the sixth time that a French leader has been the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.

A 54-year-old male resident of Noida, working at a multinational company in Gurugram, has tested positive for Covid-19. This marks the first case of infection in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar after several months, as confirmed by Dr. Sunil Sharma, Chief Medical Officer of the district. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and adherence to preventive measures in the region. Stay tuned for updates on the evolving Covid scenario in the area.

The Chandigarh administration has issued advisories in response to the spread of the JN.1 sub-variant of Covid-19. According to several media reports, it is now mandatory for attendants, doctors, and other hospital staff to wear masks in hospitals.
Additionally, people are advised to wear masks and avoid crowded areas as much as possible. These measures are part of the ongoing efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19 19 and its variants.

Following a terrorist attack that claimed the lives of five army personnel and injured two others in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, security forces initiated an extensive cordon and search operation. Aerial monitoring and the deployment of sniffer dogs are underway to trace the attackers who ambushed two Army vehicles in the area. Additional troops have been mobilized to intensify efforts in tracking down the terrorists. The Dhera Ki Gali Road has been temporarily closed for traffic, and top army and police officials are closely monitoring the situation. The attackers, believed to be three to four in number, strategically positioned themselves on hilltops before targeting the army vehicles at a blind curve. Investigation is ongoing to understand the weaponry used and the circumstances surrounding the ambush.

Bilaspur's Chief Medical and Health Officer, Rajesh Shukla, provides an update on the Covid-19 situation, revealing that out of 136 individuals tested, one person has tested positive in the RTPCR test. The patient, who exhibited symptoms of cough and cold, has a travel history, having returned from Mumbai. To determine whether the variant is new or old, the patient's sample is set to be sent to AIIMS Raipur. Stay tuned for further developments as health authorities continue to monitor and respond to the situation in Chhattisgarh.

In the latest COVID-19 developments, health authorities report the presence of the JN.1 sub-variant in 19 samples tested in Goa. However, the reassuring information is that these cases are old and inactive, as confirmed by state epidemiologist Dr. Prashant Suryavanshi. The detection during genome sequencing of samples collected from patients highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring, as urged by the Centre following the first case in Kerala on December 8. Stay updated for further details on the evolving situation.

As COVID-19 infections surge in India and the JN.1 sub-variant emerges, the Union health ministry sources state there is currently no intention to enforce mandatory RT-PCR testing at airports. Despite the rising case numbers, sources note that 92% of those infected are choosing home-based treatment, suggesting mild illness and alleviating immediate concerns. Moreover, there is no notable rise in hospitalization rates, with COVID-19 being incidental in cases hospitalized for other medical conditions. Stay informed for further updates on evolving protocols.

IMA COVID Task Force's Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan underscores concerns about the rapid spread of the JN.1 variant, particularly posing risks for older individuals with multiple comorbidities. He notes the potential destabilization of underlying conditions, leading to hospitalization and complications. Despite a spike in COVID-19 cases since November, Dr. Jayadevan mentions that those infected are not necessarily requiring hospitalization, largely attributed to cases occurring among individuals who continue their routine activities.

Distinguishing COVID-19 from common colds, he emphasizes the impact on blood vessels, advising caution due to potential long-term effects. Dr. Jayadevan advocates for preventive measures, stating that COVID-19 is best avoided, even with mild initial symptoms. He also highlights the likelihood of underreported cases due to limited testing. Stay vigilant and prioritize precautions to mitigate infection risks.

Scientists address concerns over the JN.1 Covid variant, assuring the public that its emergence, with 21 reported cases in India, isn't cause for alarm. While acknowledging the spike in overall cases, experts emphasize the effectiveness of existing treatments and the typically mild nature of the infection. The Union Health Ministry's report on Thursday, recording 594 new infections, slightly lower than the previous day, prompts experts to underscore the inevitability of virus mutations. Chandrakant Lahariya, a public health expert, emphasizes that sub-variants of SARS-CoV-2 are expected, likening it to the evolution of respiratory viruses. Amidst renewed attention on Covid, the importance of adhering to precautionary measures is emphasized by former WHO chief Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, urging avoidance of poorly ventilated spaces and prompt hospital visits for warning symptoms. Stay informed during this evolving situation.

Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief, advocates precautionary measures to prevent COVID-19. Emphasizing the importance of avoiding poorly ventilated spaces, especially in close proximity to infected individuals, she underscores the necessity of wearing masks in such settings. Dr. Swaminathan recommends opting for open spaces over crowded and inadequately ventilated areas during the upcoming season of gatherings. Additionally, she advises prompt hospital visits for those experiencing warning symptoms like severe fatigue, prolonged fever, or breathlessness. Stay informed and cautious amidst the evolving situation.

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