Category Archives: government

budget, government, law, politics, regional

Ogun Assembly receives Abiodun’s request seeking approval for 2026-2028 MTEF

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Ogun State House of Assembly has acknowledged a correspondence from the State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, seeking approval for the 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for the state.

The Speaker, Oludaisi Elemide, on Friday stated that the request aligns with the Ogun State Fiscal Responsibility Law of 2020 (as amended).

DAILY POST reports that the governor’s letter is titled “Request for the Approval of the 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) by the State House of Assembly.”

According to the letter, the Executive Council has reviewed and endorsed the prepared 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework. Governor Abiodun urged the Assembly to consider and approve the framework to facilitate the planning and budgetary process for the 2026 fiscal year, as well as the outer years of 2027 and 2028.

Following this, the Speaker referred the request to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations for further legislative action.
https://dailypost.ng/2025/09/26/ogun-assembly-receives-abioduns-request-seeking-approval-for-2026-2028-mtef/

government, justice, law, politics, social issues

MP News: ‘Congress’ Hurry May Be Harmful For OBC Category,’ Says CM Mohan Yadav

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**Supreme Court to Hear OBC Reservation Case from October 8**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the OBC reservation case starting October 8. Originally set for a Wednesday hearing, the date was further extended.

The Congress party has accused the government of not presenting the case properly before the apex court. In response, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav advised the party against rushing the process. He emphasized that any haste could be detrimental to the interests of the OBC community and noted that an all-party meeting had been convened to ensure unity.

“Only unity before the court will be helpful,” Yadav said. He added that the case to restore 13% reservation in held posts was pleaded collectively by all parties. Highlighting the complexity of the matter, Yadav mentioned that over 15,000 documents have been filed in connection with the case. The government has informed the Supreme Court that it should consider the views of all parties whenever it hears the matter.

“Our aim is to benefit each category—SC, ST, and OBC—under the reservation policy,” Yadav stated.

**Government Advocates Accused of Being Unprepared**

Reacting to Chief Minister Yadav’s remarks, Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Jitu Patwari said, “If the party does not react, the government will do nothing.”

Patwari recalled that when his government granted 27% reservation to the OBC, the BJP’s proxy team challenged the move in court. He noted that this legal battle has been ongoing for six years.

At a recent meeting, it was decided that government lawyers would first argue to restore 13% of the reserved posts. However, instead of taking this step, the government sought to postpone the hearing by four months, prompting a reprimand from the court, Patwari said.

According to him, the government does not appear willing to grant the OBC quota, which is the root cause of the delay and inaction.

—

This case remains a focal point in the state’s politics as stakeholders await a resolution that balances reservation benefits across communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-congress-hurry-may-be-harmful-for-obc-category-says-cm-mohan-yadav

government, law, politics, social equity, society

HC upholds Karnataka`s socio-economic survey, mandates voluntary participation

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The court has emphasized the importance of strict confidentiality in handling survey data. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that no personal or sensitive information collected is made public or shared with any unauthorized entities, ANI reported.

Senior Advocate Vivek Reddy, representing the petitioners, criticized the survey process, calling it flawed. He stated, “First of all, the division of caste is not correct by the state government. The entire exercise is flawed because there is no proper head caste and sub-caste. When we are undergoing a survey of this comprehensive nature, it should be scientific and clear. They have included various other groups that were not included in the survey. Our main concern is regarding the creation of an artificial caste to manipulate the survey and take it in the wrong direction. There was also a concern regarding data storage and protection.”

On September 12, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the launch of a large-scale caste-based socio-economic survey aimed at assessing the state’s socio-educational landscape. The initiative is being carried out under the leadership of Madhusudan Naik, Chairman of the Backward Classes (BC) Commission, along with five commission members. The survey, targeting approximately seven crore residents, is scheduled to take place between September 22 and October 7.

Despite opposition criticism, CM Siddaramaiah has remained firm on the government’s position. Speaking to reporters, he said, “The BJP is doing politics on this issue and accusing the Congress government of being anti-Hindu. All the ministers have been instructed to condemn this unanimously. The survey will start from September 22, and will not be postponed.”

Earlier in July, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy presented the Telangana Socio-Economic Survey Model and Methodology at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi. Highlighting the survey’s comprehensive approach, Reddy explained that the initiative was not just a caste survey, but a social, economic, educational, employment, and political survey.

According to Telangana’s data, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), including practising Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Buddhists, comprise 56.4 percent of the state’s population. Scheduled Castes (SCs) make up 17.4 percent, Scheduled Tribes (STs) 10.8 percent, and forward castes 10.9 percent. Additionally, 3.9 percent of the population has been categorized as having no caste, the report noted.

The survey also documented previously unlisted castes and assessed their socio-economic status by name and location, providing a detailed understanding of the community dynamics within the state.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/karnataka-hc-upholds-socio-economic-survey-but-mandates-voluntary-participation-and-data-privacy-23595801

budget, festivals, government, labour, local news

Navi Mumbai News: Employees’ Union Demands Diwali Ex-Gratia Bonus For NMMC Staff Across Categories

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**Navi Mumbai: Maharashtra Employees’ Union Urges NMMC to Announce Ex-Gratia Grants Ahead of Diwali**

With Diwali just a month away, the Maharashtra Employees’ Union has called on the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to immediately announce ex-gratia grants (bonuses) for municipal employees across all categories. The demand cites rising inflation and increased festival-related expenses as pressing concerns for the workforce.

### Memorandum Submitted to Commissioner

Union President Ravindra Sawant recently met with NMMC Municipal Commissioner Kailash Shinde and submitted a written memorandum. The request highlighted the need for financial relief for all employees including permanent, contractual, daily-wage, and hourly-based workers, as well as teachers.

### Financial Relief for Hourly Teachers

A key concern brought up by the Union is the plight of hourly-based teachers in the municipal education department. These teachers do not receive leave pay and, given their modest salaries, often face significant financial difficulties. On humanitarian grounds, the Union recommended granting hourly teachers ex-gratia payments comparable to contractual staff, suggesting an amount between Rs 20,000 and Rs 25,000 this year.

### Proposed Grant Amounts for Teachers

For other categories of municipal teachers, the Union has proposed that contractual teachers receive Rs 35,000 and permanent teachers Rs 40,000 as ex-gratia grants. Additionally, employees in other divisions— including drivers and officers in the Parbhani division—were also urged to be considered for similar financial assistance.

### Acknowledging Employee Dedication

“Municipal employees and officers have consistently contributed to the city’s recognition at both state and central levels. Announcing ex-gratia grants this Diwali will not only provide essential financial support but will also acknowledge their dedication,” said Ravindra Sawant.

### Unified Demand from Staff

The memorandum was submitted in the presence of Secretary Mangesh Gaikwad, sanitation officers, finance department officials, teachers, and transport staff. This collective presence reflects a unified call for prompt and positive action from the NMMC administration.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-news-employees-union-demands-diwali-ex-gratia-bonus-for-nmmc-staff-across-categories

environment, government, health, industry

Bhopal News: Mercury In Union Carbide Corporation Chemical Waste; Vast Gap In Numbers In Govt Affidavit, CPCB Report

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**Discrepancies in Mercury Levels Raise Concerns Over Union Carbide Waste Burning in Pithampur**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A renewed debate has surfaced regarding the burning of Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) chemical waste, following reports from two separate pollution control bodies presenting vastly different figures on the quantity of heavy metals—mercury in particular—remaining after incinerating 350 metric tons (MT) of waste. This process resulted in 900 MT of ash at Pithampur.

The state government’s affidavit, filed in the High Court at Jabalpur earlier this month, is based on a report from the regional laboratory of the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB) in Indore. In stark contrast, a joint affidavit submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) indicates significantly higher levels of mercury.

According to the CPCB report on the trial burn, mercury content in the reactor residue ranged from 261 to 615 mg/kg, with the excavated waste containing mercury levels between 152 and 754 mg/kg. Conversely, the state government’s affidavit reported mercury concentrations as markedly lower, between 0.09 and 1.5 mg/kg.

Rachna Dhingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action, an organization working with victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy, highlighted the contradictions: “Both the reports are contradictory. The government affidavit, filed in mid-September this year, and the CPCB report after the UCC trial have a huge gap. Where did the mercury disappear? It is now up to the government to reply in the High Court.”

**“Mercury Is Toxic”**

Hamidia Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Sumit Tandon told the Free Press, “Mercury is poisonous and causes many medical issues. Basically, it is a heavy metal, and exposure to it causes numerous health problems for people.”

The discrepancy in reported mercury levels has raised serious questions about the accuracy of monitoring and the potential health risks posed by residual toxic metals from the UCC waste burning process. The High Court is expected to seek clarifications from the government in the coming sessions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-news-mercury-in-union-carbide-corporation-chemical-waste-vast-gap-in-numbers-in-govt-affidavit-cpcb-report

conflict, dignity, government, politics, security

Crisis is BJP govt`s own creation: Congress on Ladakh violence

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Congress’ media and publicity department head Pawan Khera described the loss of precious lives in Ladakh as tragic. He said, “It’s a grim reminder of the government’s failed promises. In 2019, from the floor of Parliament, the nation was assured that the humiliation being inflicted on the people of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir then would usher in peace. Six years later, the trouble has only deepened.”

Khera further stated on X, “Far from restoring normalcy in the valley, the Centre’s shortsightedness has pushed Jammu and Ladakh also into an incinerator of violence. This crisis is the BJP government’s own creation—one it now seeks to unfairly ignore.”

He emphasized that Ladakh’s demand for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, for dignity and the protection of their identity, is both legitimate and just. According to the Congress leader, it deserves not neglect but compassion and statesmanship.

On Wednesday, groups of youths engaged in arson and vandalism, targeting the headquarters of the BJP and the Hill Council. They also set ablaze vehicles. Police and paramilitary forces, deployed in strength across the town, lobbed teargas shells to bring the situation under control, officials said.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was instigated by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. It added that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress made in the ongoing talks between government representatives and Ladakhi groups.

In a statement, the Union Home Ministry said that barring a few unfortunate incidents that occurred early on Wednesday, the situation was brought under control by 4 pm. The ministry also urged everyone not to circulate old and provocative videos on media and social platforms.

At least 50 people were detained as police and paramilitary forces strictly enforced curfew on Thursday in the violence-hit Leh.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/crisis-is-bjp-govts-own-creation-congress-on-ladakh-violence-23595754

business, economy, government, industry, trade

‘Everything from chip to ship’: PM Modi calls for boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat

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**PM Modi Calls for Boost to Indigenous Production Across Sectors at UP International Trade Show 2025**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a significant boost to indigenous production across various sectors, emphasizing the importance of building a ‘Swadeshi’ economy. Speaking at the inauguration of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show-2025 (UPITS-2025) on Wednesday, PM Modi assured stakeholders that the government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them in this journey.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to ease of doing business, the Prime Minister noted that several unnecessary compliances have been removed to help businesses thrive in India. “The government is putting a strong emphasis on Make in India manufacturing. We want everything from chip to ship to be manufactured in India; for this, we are focusing on your ease of doing business,” he said.

PM Modi further elaborated on the reforms, stating, “The government abolished more than 40,000 compliances, and more than a thousand laws were decriminalised. We are standing with you shoulder-to-shoulder,” addressing the business fraternity and traders present at the event.

Despite global disruptions and uncertainties, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in India’s growth potential. “Disruptions don’t hinder us, but even in those circumstances, we look for new directions. Amid all these disruptions, India is strengthening the foundations for the coming decades. Our resolve and mantra is Atmanirbhar Bharat. Nothing can be more helpless than being dependent on others. The more a country stays dependent on others, the more its growth is going to stay compromised,” he added.

PM Modi also stressed the importance of maintaining quality in indigenous products. “Every citizen is adopting Swadeshi, ‘Garv se kaho hum swadeshi hai’. Our traders will have to proudly adopt this mantra,” he said. He called for creating an ecosystem that gives special emphasis to Swadeshi designs, while urging private investment in research and innovation. “Without innovation, the world stops, businesses halt,” he remarked.

### About the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2025

The trade show, held from September 25 to 29, carries the theme “Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here” and focuses on three core objectives: innovation, integration, and internationalisation. UPITS-2025 aims to connect international buyers, domestic Business-to-Business (B2B) buyers, and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers through a three-pronged buyer strategy, offering opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.

This platform will showcase Uttar Pradesh’s diverse craft traditions, modern industries, robust MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs. Key sectors represented at the event include handicrafts, textiles, leather, agriculture, food processing, IT, electronics, and AYUSH, among others. The trade show will also celebrate the state’s rich art, culture, and cuisine under one roof.

Adding strategic significance, Russia will participate as a partner country, facilitating new avenues for bilateral trade, technology exchange, and long-term cooperation.

The event expects participation from over 2,400 exhibitors, approximately 125,000 B2B visitors, and about 450,000 B2C visitors.

*(With inputs from ANI)*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/everything-from-chip-to-ship-pm-modi-calls-for-boost-to-atmanirbhar-bharat-manufacturing-23595743

area, government, politics, public safety, transport

‘India Losing 3% Of GDP Annually Due To Road Accidents,’ Says Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

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New Delhi: India is losing 3 per cent of its GDP due to around 5 lakh road accidents annually in the country, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Tuesday.

The Minister for Road, Transport and Highways made the remarks while addressing AMCHAM’s event on “Technology Interventions For Road Safety: US-India Partnership” in the national capital.

Highlighting the severity of the issue, Gadkari said the most important problem for the country is road accidents. He noted that every year, India witnesses approximately 4,80,000 accidents, resulting in 1,88,000 deaths, predominantly among people aged between 18 and 45 years.

The minister also raised concerns over the loss of young lives, pointing out that around 10,000 deaths annually are of children below 18 years of age.

He emphasized, “It is one of the major public health issues, and the most important thing is that we are losing 3 per cent of GDP because of road accidents.”

Gadkari further cited poor Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) as one of the key reasons contributing to these accidents. He stated, “DPR consultants are the main culprits responsible for the road accidents. Sometimes, due to cost-saving measures, other reasons, and a non-serious approach, these reports are inadequately prepared.”

To encourage public assistance for accident victims, the government has decided to provide an award of Rs 25,000 to any third person who helps a victim of an accident.

Additionally, Gadkari mentioned, “If any patient, by accident or after an accident, is admitted to any hospital, we can provide Rs 1,50,000 maximum or cover up to 7 years of expenditure for their treatment by the doctor.”

These measures aim to improve road safety and support accident victims across the country.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/india-losing-3-of-gdp-annually-due-to-road-accidents-says-union-minister-nitin-gadkari

government, law, public safety, transportation

‘Filming reels prohibited’: Delhi Metro cracks down on making videos

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By Snehil Singh | Sep 24, 2025, 02:29 PM

**Delhi Metro Cracks Down on Social Media Content Creation Inside Trains**

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has launched a new campaign to curb commuters from creating social media content, such as shooting reels, inside metro trains. The initiative began on September 14 and is being implemented across the entire metro network this week, according to a DMRC official quoted by Hindustan Times.

### Passenger Experience and Comfort

As part of the campaign, in-train announcements have been introduced to warn passengers against recording videos or playing loud music while on board. Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director of Corporate Communications at DMRC, explained that these measures aim to enhance passenger comfort and ensure that all commuters can travel without inconvenience.

He stated, “This step has been taken to ensure that fellow passengers are not inconvenienced due to such activity.” The new announcements are made in both English and Hindi and complement existing rules that prohibit sitting on floors or eating inside metro coaches.

### Legal Framework and Existing Rules

While the Metro Railways Act, 2002, does not explicitly ban the recording of reels, it empowers authorities to penalize individuals for “creating a nuisance.” This provision covers disruptive behavior inside metro stations and coaches.

The decision to broadcast specific in-train announcements comes amid growing concerns that the Delhi Metro has become a popular spot for shooting social media content — a trend that often disrupts other commuters.

### Enforcement Challenges

The DMRC faces challenges in enforcing these rules effectively. In 2023, the metro’s flying squads—originally assigned to prevent men from accessing women-only coaches—were also instructed to monitor and address complaints about objectionable content being recorded inside trains, as reported by The Times of India.

Additionally, enforcement actions have been taken for other violations. For instance, in April this year, a 25-year-old commuter was arrested for allegedly drinking alcohol inside a metro coach, highlighting DMRC’s commitment to maintaining discipline and passenger safety.

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Through these combined efforts, the Delhi Metro aims to create a more comfortable and respectful environment for all passengers while adapting to the challenges posed by the rise of social media activities in public spaces.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/delhi/delhi-metro-bans-reels-social-media-videos-fines-for-violations/story

government, law, public safety, transportation

‘Filming reels prohibited’: Delhi Metro cracks down on making videos

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By Snehil Singh | Sep 24, 2025, 02:29 PM

**DMRC Launches Campaign to Curb Social Media Content Creation on Delhi Metro Trains**

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has initiated a new campaign aimed at discouraging commuters from creating social media content while traveling on the metro. Launched on September 14, this campaign will be enforced across the entire Delhi Metro network over the coming week, according to a DMRC official quoted by Hindustan Times.

As part of the campaign, in-train announcements are being made to warn passengers against recording reels or playing loud music inside coaches. These measures are designed to improve the overall passenger experience by minimizing disruptions.

### Enhancing Passenger Comfort

Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director of Corporate Communications at DMRC, explained that the primary goal is to ensure that fellow passengers are not inconvenienced by such activities. He stated,
“This step has been taken to ensure that fellow passengers are not inconvenienced due to such activity.”

The new announcements, delivered in both English and Hindi, complement existing rules such as prohibitions on sitting on the floor or eating inside coaches.

### Legal Framework and Enforcement

While the Metro Railways Act, 2002, does not explicitly ban shooting reels inside metro coaches, violators can be fined under existing provisions for “creating a nuisance.” These regulations apply to inappropriate behavior both inside coaches and at metro stations.

The decision to introduce these in-train announcements comes amid growing concerns over the Delhi Metro becoming a hotspot for video content creation, which often causes disruptions for other commuters.

To address enforcement challenges, DMRC has expanded the responsibilities of its flying squads. Previously focused on preventing unauthorized men from entering women’s coaches, these teams are now also tasked with monitoring and curbing objectionable content filming on the metro, according to a report by The Times of India.

### Other Notable Incidents

In April 2025, a 25-year-old commuter was arrested for allegedly drinking alcohol inside a metro coach, underscoring the ongoing efforts by DMRC to maintain decorum and safety within the metro system.

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The new campaign reflects DMRC’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and disturbance-free travel experience for all passengers. Commuters are encouraged to adhere to the rules and help maintain a respectful environment inside Delhi Metro trains.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/delhi/delhi-metro-bans-reels-social-media-videos-fines-for-violations/story