Category Archives: community

community, football, law enforcement, public health, public safety

Police cracking down on drunk driving during AFL grand final weekend

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Victoria Police are cracking down on drunk and drug drivers over the AFL Grand Final long weekend.

As the celebrations begin, authorities are increasing patrols and checkpoints to ensure roads remain safe for all commuters. Drivers are urged to plan ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel if they have consumed alcohol or drugs.

Stay safe and remember: the consequences of impaired driving can be severe.

*Published on September 24, 2025, at 4:53 PM.*
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/police-cracking-down-on-drunk-driving-during-afl-grand-final-weekend-20250924-p5mxos.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

community, holidays, law enforcement, local news, protests

LAPD increases patrols around synagogues starting Rosh Hashanah, during Holy Days

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**LAPD Increases Patrols Around Synagogues Starting Rosh Hashanah During the Holy Days**

The High Holy Days in the Jewish calendar begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and continue through Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, which ends at nightfall on October 2.

In response to the significance of this period, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has increased patrols around synagogues to ensure community safety during the Holy Days.

Separately, on April 24, 2024, LAPD surrounded students protesting in support of Palestinians at an encampment in the University of Southern California’s Alumni Park, located in Los Angeles, California.

*Photo Credit: REUTERS/Zaydee Sanchez*

By Nathan Solis / Los Angeles Times / TNS
https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-868316

community, development, environment, government, power

Finally! Remote Tribal Hamlets Near Indore Get Electricity

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Remote Tribal Families in Mhow’s Forest Belt Witness Electrification for the First Time

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): For the first time, several remote tribal families living in scattered hamlets along the foothills of Mhow’s forest belt are witnessing their homes lit up with electricity. Under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM JUGA), the Madhya Pradesh West Zone Electricity Distribution Company has extended permanent power connections to households that had until now lived in darkness.

In a special drive led by the company’s managing director, Anup Kumar Singh, nearly eight kilometres of power lines and 100 poles have been installed in remote locations of Indore’s rural circle. So far, 20 tribal families residing in isolated clusters of 4–8 houses—often located half to one-and-a-half kilometres away from main villages—have been provided electricity connections.

Superintending Engineer (Indore Rural Circle) Dr. DN Sharma said the aim is to cover all 32 identified households in these inaccessible areas by October 2, Gandhi Jayanti. “Reaching these settlements is extremely challenging due to the hilly terrain. With the help of local farmers and tractors, electricity poles were transported to the sites. Wires were then laid to ensure that even the most distant homes could finally be connected to the grid,” he added.

The electrification work has so far reached tribal settlements including Kakardamantri Wala Pura, Imli Awar Majra, Bedipura, Shahpura Kakad, Kakad Chauraha, and Mewalal Wala Majra.

Joy Among Beneficiaries

For the tribal families, the arrival of electricity has been nothing short of life-changing. Beneficiaries like Jagnesh Vasuniya and Mithun Amarsingh expressed their happiness: “Even though our homes are far from the main village, poles and wires have been installed here and power has started flowing. Meters have also been fixed, and all the families are delighted.”

Transforming Lives in Remote Areas

Officials noted that while each hamlet has only a handful of houses, ensuring access to electricity is vital for improving living standards. The initiative is expected to enhance safety, allow children to study after dark, and open up opportunities for small-scale livelihood activities.

The PM JUGA scheme, aimed at uplifting remote tribal villages through basic infrastructure, is being rolled out in phases across Madhya Pradesh. Indore’s progress under this programme demonstrates how even the most inaccessible settlements are now being connected to the mainstream of development.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/finally-remote-tribal-hamlets-near-indore-get-electricity

community, crime, firearms, law enforcement, public safety

Cops find illegal gun stash after arrest over alleged violent attack

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Police Seize Illegal Firearms and Charge Two Men Following Assault Investigation

Police have seized a cache of illegal firearms and charged two individuals in connection with an ongoing investigation.

The incident traces back to September 14, when a 45-year-old man was seriously injured after allegedly being assaulted by a man known to him at a residence in Lower Barrington. An official report was made to police on September 17 concerning the assault.

On September 19, law enforcement officers, including specialist units, arrested a 40-year-old man in the Beechford area relating to the assault. He was charged with causing grievous bodily harm and has been detained to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court.

Following the arrest, police conducted a search of a Beechford residence where several illegal firearms were discovered. The items found included:

– A sawn-off shotgun
– A rifle
– Six homemade pistols
– An antique pistol
– Two imitation firearms (gel blasters)
– Two crossbows, one of which was homemade

A 53-year-old man, who was not involved in the assault, was also charged with several firearms-related offences. He has been granted bail and is scheduled to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court on October 22.

Detective Inspector Michelle Elmer commented on the discovery, stating, “Every illegal firearm in our community is a concern to Tasmania Police, and poses a risk to public safety. Firearms, particularly homemade ones, are unpredictable and extremely dangerous. They pose a significant threat to the community.”

She added, “Police remain committed to removing illegal weapons from our streets, and we urge anyone with information in relation to illicit firearms to help us by providing information.”

—

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https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/9071817/illegal-firearms-found-after-arrest-over-lower-barrington-assault/?src=rss

community, education, government, policy, technology

Best-performing zilla parishads, civic bodies in education to get incentives

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**Maharashtra Announces Incentive Prizes for Excellence in Education Initiatives**

School Education Minister Shri Dadaji Bhuse announced on Friday that Zilla Parishads and Municipal Corporations excelling in promoting quality and innovative education initiatives in Maharashtra will be awarded incentive prizes. The awards include Rs 5 crore for first place, Rs 3 crore for second place, and Rs 2 crore for the third position.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the two-day State-Level School Education Conference held in Balewadi, Pune. The event was attended by key officials including School Department Principal Secretary Ranjit Singh Deol, Education Commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh, Maharashtra Primary Education Council State Project Director Sanjay Yadav, State Educational Research and Training Council Director Rahul Rekhawar, State Examination Council Director Nandkumar Bedse, and other directors and education officers from across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Bhuse emphasized that education must be enjoyable, of high quality, comprehensive, and rooted in national values. He urged the department to implement innovative initiatives to position Maharashtra as a leader in education. Highlighting the importance of artificial intelligence, technology integration, infrastructure development, and flagship schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Yojana, scholarship examinations, and the Nipun Bharat Abhiyan, Bhuse called for a holistic approach to education enhancement.

The minister further underscored the value of experiential learning through educational trips. He suggested organizing visits to historical sites, agricultural activities, and banks to enrich students’ learning experiences.

In addition, Bhuse announced the organization of an elocution competition commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Punyashloka Ahilyadevi Holkar, and a quiz contest marking the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda.

**Administrative Reforms and Scholarship Exams Resumption**

Announcing administrative reforms, the minister revealed that the existing 15 school-level committees will be consolidated into four committees to enhance operational efficiency. He also confirmed the resumption of scholarship examinations for Classes 4 and 7 starting from the next academic year.

Principal Secretary Ranjit Singh Deol stressed the importance of local self-government bodies prioritizing education and health. He urged municipal commissioners to ensure effective implementation of government initiatives at the grassroots level.

Education Commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh spoke about improving the quality of education, the implementation goals of the National Education Policy (NEP), targets set under the Nipun Bharat Abhiyan for 2027, and various ongoing school-level initiatives.

**Launch of Competition Guide and Conference Highlights**

During the ceremony, Minister Bhuse released the Teacher and Officer-Employee Competition Guide, which features 36 competitions and six Olympiads. The guide was prepared under the guidance of Rahul Rekhawar.

The conference included discussions on several critical topics such as the New Education Policy 2020, the PARAKH assessment survey report measuring learning outcomes, administrative reforms, and holistic education strategies.

Officials from different districts presented innovative educational practices implemented locally and were honored by the minister with mementos and books.

Additionally, administrative matters including Class 11 admissions, the Group School Scheme for inclusive education, the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) Plus database, and teacher recruitment approvals were deliberated.

Programs and schemes from the Maharashtra Primary Education Council, NEP 2020 action plans, competency-based question banks, e-Vidya educational channels, and yoga curriculum guides were also highlighted for effective execution.

**Upcoming Initiatives and Events**

Minister Bhuse directed schools across the state to organize annual gatherings, student sports competitions, and patriotic drills scheduled for January 26, 2026. He also announced an increase in prize money for science exhibitions, aiming to further encourage student participation and innovation.

—

The State-Level School Education Conference marks a significant step toward elevating educational standards in Maharashtra through strategic reforms, incentivizing innovation, and fostering community involvement in education.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/maharashtra-announces-incentives-for-best-performing-zilla-parishads-municipal-corporations-in-education-23594869

community, crime, law enforcement, public safety, transportation

Arrests on first day of transit safety initiative ‘no surprise’: Winnipeg police

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Winnipeg police say their new transit safety initiative has already borne fruit, with arrests occurring as early as Wednesday—the very day the project was announced.

Officers stationed at the Unicity Transit Hub made two separate arrests on launch day. In one incident, a 37-year-old man was apprehended as he attempted to board a bus to flee with goods stolen from a nearby business. The man was charged with theft under $5,000.

“It comes as no surprise to us,” said Supt. Brian Miln. “There’s a direct link to our transit strategy, as some individuals involved in retail crime use transit as a means to leave the area after committing shoplifting and theft inside retail outlets.”

The second incident involved a report from a transit driver who witnessed a man smash a bus window with his elbow. Police patrolling the hub quickly tracked down the 35-year-old suspect, who was charged with mischief under $5,000.

Additionally, police found flammable liquid and a lighter on the man, items he was banned from possessing under the conditions of a release order. He was subsequently charged with failing to comply with those conditions and taken into custody.

Although the transit safety initiative has only been in place for a few days, Miln said public response has been positive so far. “We’ve had a couple of people reach out to us through various means—emails, phone calls, etc.—who are very pleased to see a police presence on buses, saying the initiative is very welcome and overdue.”

The campaign was launched in response to a record high number of violent crimes recorded on transit buses and around bus shelters last year—more than triple the numbers reported in 2019. Authorities say this troubling trend is continuing.

The ramped-up police presence involves both uniformed and plainclothes officers and will focus on routes and stops flagged as problem areas to enhance safety for transit users.
https://globalnews.ca/news/11436989/winnipeg-transit-police-arrests-day-one/

celebration, community, defense, welfare

Border Security Force Wives Welfare Association Celebrates BWWA Day 2025

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The Border Security Force Wives Welfare Association (BWWA) celebrated BWWA Day 2025 at the BSF facility in Nizamuddin on Thursday. The event was graced by Mrs. Neema Rastogi, Vice President of BWWA, who attended as the Chief Guest.

Approximately 125 Veeranganas of deceased BSF personnel, along with their family members and BWWA members, participated in the occasion. Their presence added deep emotional resonance and collective pride to the event. In recognition of their courage and resilience, all Veeranganas and two disabled BSF wards were felicitated.

A key highlight of the programme was the release of the 23rd edition of the BWWA Magazine, “Prahari Sangini.” This publication continues to reflect the spirit, strength, and solidarity of BSF families.

During the event, the Chief Guest personally interacted with the Veeranganas, listened to their grievances, and assured them of speedy redressal. A community dinner was arranged for all attendees, symbolizing the unity and warmth of the BWWA community.

In her address, Mrs. Neema Rastogi lauded the dedication, achievements, and compassionate outreach of BWWA over the past years. She reaffirmed the Association’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of BSF families, dependents, and specially-abled children.

The event concluded on a note of unity, welfare, and compassion, reinforcing the core values of BWWA.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/border-security-force-wives-welfare-association-celebrates-bwwa-day-2025

children, community, education, government

Nandurbar Collector Dr Mittali Sethi Breaks Stereotypes, Sends Twins To Zilla Parishad Anganwadi (VIDEO)

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When people think of Zilla Parishad (ZP) schools or Anganwadis, they often see them merely as centers for education catering to children from underprivileged families. However, Nandurbar District Magistrate Dr. Mittali Sethi has challenged this perception in a remarkable way.

Dr. Sethi recently enrolled her own twin children, Shukar and Sabar, in the Tokar Lake Anganwadi, located about four kilometers from Nandurbar city. This bold move has sparked statewide discussions and earned widespread praise for highlighting social responsibility as well as the significance of government-run institutions.

The decision was inspired by the innovative “Jholi” concept developed by Anganwadi workers. Explaining her choice, Dr. Sethi said, “Since the school and Anganwadi are in the same premises, attention will be paid to both. We will also gain first-hand experience of what needs to be improved in other Anganwadis across the district. This is about social responsibility.”

### Who is Dr. Mittali Sethi?

An IAS officer, Dr. Sethi took charge as the District Collector of Nandurbar in August 2024, following her tenure as Director of Vanamati Sanstha. Her decision to enroll her children in a ZP Anganwadi is being seen as an inspirational step to encourage urban and middle-class families to reconsider the value of government schools and Anganwadis.

While ZP schools often evoke a sense of nostalgia, they are rarely chosen by families in urban areas today. Dr. Sethi’s initiative is expected to change attitudes and build greater trust in these institutions, particularly in the tribal and rural regions of Maharashtra.

Her action is receiving widespread appreciation across the state, with many praising it as a powerful example for other officers and public figures to follow. By leading through example, Dr. Mittali Sethi is redefining the narrative around government education and social responsibility.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/nandurbar-collector-dr-mitali-sethi-breaks-stereotypes-sends-twins-to-zilla-parishad-anganwadi-video

community, events, politics

Officials Plan Tight Security And Crowd Management In MP’s Jabalpur

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**Jabalpur District-Level Peace Committee Reviews Security Arrangements Ahead of Festive Season**

Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): A district-level peace committee meeting was convened to review security and management arrangements for the upcoming festivals of Durga Puja, Punjabi Dussehra, Vijayadashmi, and Diwali. The meeting, chaired by Superintendent of Police Sampat Upadhyay, took place at the police control room.

The session was attended by former Minister Kaushalya Gontiya, former MLA Sanjay Yadav, representatives of the Punjabi Hindu Association, and other prominent peace committee members. SP Upadhyay assured participants that strong security measures would be implemented to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season.

Highlighting the importance of localized coordination, SP Upadhyay suggested that peace committee meetings should also be organized at the police station and SDM area levels to more effectively address local concerns.

Representing the Collector, Joint Collector, and SDM (Gorakhpur), Anurag Singh reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to act on all feasible suggestions. He emphasized the need for collective effort to further enhance Jabalpur’s renowned Dussehra celebrations.

During the meeting, members proposed several key suggestions to improve arrangements:

– Enhanced security in sensitive areas and robust measures at religious sites and immersion points.
– Provision of drinking water, adequate lighting, and uninterrupted power supply along procession routes.
– Addressing the issue of low-hanging electrical wires to prevent hazards.
– Effective traffic management during bhandaras (community feasts) to prevent congestion.
– Adequate lighting around Badi Khermai Temple and Budhi Khermai Temple.
– Restriction on idol immersion in canals in rural areas; if unavoidable, ensuring proper security arrangements.
– Crackdown on illegal liquor trade in rural regions to maintain law and order.

Committee members also urged strict action against miscreants attempting to disturb peace during the festival period.

The administration assured all participants that every effort would be made to ensure peaceful, safe, and well-managed celebrations across the district. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with authorities to uphold harmony during the festive season.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/officials-plan-tight-security-and-crowd-management-in-mps-jabalpur