Important News - 2025-03-17
17 March 2025
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Miscellaneous (5)
Karnataka Forms Expert Committee to Study Elephant Behaviour Amid Rising Human-Animal Conflicts
In response to the rising cases of human-elephant conflicts in Karnataka's Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu districts, the State government has formed an expert committee to study potential behavioural changes among elephants. The committee, led by Raman Sukumar, an honorary professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences in the Indian Institute of Science, is examining factors such as drought, lack of food and water in forests, and rapid urbanisation that have driven elephants out of their natural habitats. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre informed the Legislative Council that post-pandemic, 60 to 70 elephants have moved out of forests in Hassan alone, often residing in coffee plantations due to their similarity to forest environments. Additionally, the Minister stated that the department is considering increasing compensation for human-animal conflict victims, with ₹31 crore already distributed in 2023-2024.
Bangalore Metro Passengers Demand Enhanced Last-Mile Connectivity and National Common Mobility Card
The Bangalore Metro and Suburban Rail Passenger’s Association has reiterated its demands for improved last-mile connectivity, affordable fares, and enhanced passenger amenities for Namma Metro commuters. Prakash Mandoth, association founder and president, met with Namma Metro Managing Director M. Maheshwar Rao for the fourth time, seeking action on long-pending proposals. These include integrating BMTC buses, e-rickshaws, and e-scooters at key metro stations, introducing the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) for seamless travel, and reinstating fare discounts. The association has urged BMRCL to restore the 15% discount on smart cards, offer a 20% discount for off-peak travel, and introduce a monthly pass system, including a 35% concession for students. Additionally, Mr. Mandoth highlighted the urgent need to refurbish ageing metro station toilets and deploy short-chassis buses to connect business hubs like Chikpete, Gandhinagar, and Jayanagar. Expressing frustration over the lack of progress despite multiple appeals, the association called for swift action, arguing that these measures would boost ridership and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Kerala HC Halts Monitoring Committees, Seeks Dedicated Authority for Periyar River
The Kerala High Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s failure to establish a dedicated authority for the Periyar river. A Division Bench, led by Justice Devan Ramachandran, criticized the newly formed monitoring committees, stating they lack the necessary authority and continuity to effectively address river pollution issues. The court emphasized the need for a permanent body with significant powers to act swiftly on violations, rather than relying on committees that meet infrequently. The court has temporarily halted the operations of the newly constituted State- and district-level committees and directed the government to respond within three weeks regarding the establishment of a dedicated authority. Meanwhile, the court has instructed respective departments to report to the existing high-level committee and ensure immediate compliance with its requirements. This decision came during the hearing of writ petitions related to river pollution in the Periyar.
Class X Exams Begin with 99% Attendance in Nellore District
The Class X examinations commenced peacefully on Monday in SPSR Nellore district, with an impressive attendance rate of nearly 99%. Out of the 29,230 registered students, 28,846 appeared for the exams across 174 centers. District Education Officer (DEO) Raja Balaji Rao reported the smooth conduct of the exams. Students and parents gathered in large numbers at the centers, with some parents engaging in disputes with police officials over access restrictions. Nellore District Collector O. Anand inspected the exam process at ESRM High School in Mulapet. Additionally, nine district educational officers, seven district-level observers, and 67 flying squads monitored the centers. A minor incident occurred at Zilla Parshad High School in Vavilla village, where parents broke a lock due to a delayed room opening. However, the issue was resolved promptly, and the exams proceeded without further disruptions.
Kadambari Jethwani Seeks Closure on False Case Impacting Her Family
Doctor-turned-actor Kadambari Jethwani expressed distress over the prolonged delay in resolving a case involving her, which she claims is false and has caused significant harm to her and her family. Speaking to the media in Vijayawada on March 17, she thanked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Home Affairs Minister Vangalapudi Anitha for their assistance but emphasized that her family continues to suffer due to the ongoing case. In September 2023, she was assured that the case would be closed and her confiscated electronic devices returned, but little progress has been made. The case, filed by Kukkala Vidyasagar on February 2, 2024, accused Jethwani and her family of forgery and extortion, while she countered with a complaint alleging a false case. Both cases were transferred to the Crime Investigation Department (CID) in October 2024. Jethwani highlighted the emotional and reputational toll on her family, including her elderly parents, and called for immediate closure of the case. Women’s rights activists, including D. Rama Devi of AIDWA and B. Keerthi of Vasavya Mahila Mandali, criticized the government’s delay, questioning the transfer to CID and the prolonged forensic report process.
Schemes (4)
Yuva Nidhi Scheme Benefits 1.74 Lakh Unemployed Graduates and Diploma Holders
Minister for Medical Education, Skill Development and Livelihood Sharan Prakash Patil announced that 1.74 lakh individuals are currently benefiting from the Yuva Nidhi scheme, an unemployment allowance for graduates and diploma holders. The scheme, which has the potential to benefit 10 lakh students annually, has seen 2.62 lakh applications over two years, with 1.74 lakh recipients currently receiving benefits. The Minister provided detailed data, revealing that 49,726 candidates are enrolled but have not completed the mandatory 180-day waiting period, while manual verification is pending for 16,648 candidates. Additionally, 331 candidates were removed from the scheme based on income tax and GST data, and 20,000 students were disqualified after enrolling in higher education through the UVCMS portal. Furthermore, 32,800 candidates opted out of the scheme through monthly self-declarations, and 1,539 applications were rejected by the DDPI. The government has now simplified the process by changing the mandatory self-declaration frequency from monthly to once every three months. The Minister also addressed concerns about delayed mark sheet distribution, clarifying that students can apply as soon as results are announced and mark sheets are available on the National Academic Depository.
Andhra Pradesh to Establish 1,760 Village Health Clinics Under PM-Ayushman Bharat Mission
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar announced in the Legislative Assembly that the government is actively setting up 1,760 village health clinics under the PM-Ayushman Bharat Infrastructure Mission. Additionally, another 1,500 clinics will be established using funds from the 15th Finance Commission to enhance healthcare accessibility. The Minister also addressed the incomplete construction of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) initiated during the previous government’s tenure, such as the one in Sabbavaram, which was stalled due to non-payment of bills. The current government plans to resume these projects in a phased manner, prioritizing major works despite financial constraints. Proposals to upgrade Community Health Centres are also under consideration, with suggestions for minor works to be funded through donations.
Udhayanidhi Stalin Reviews TNUHDB Projects for Chennai and Suburbs
On Monday, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin chaired a follow-up meeting to review the progress of various projects implemented by the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB). The meeting, attended by TNUHDB Minister T.M. Anbarasan and other officials, focused on ensuring the timely completion of ongoing schemes in Chennai and its suburbs. Earlier, a review meeting had been conducted a few months ago to assess the status of these projects. During the latest discussion, Mr. Udhayanidhi emphasized the importance of maintaining progress and instructed officials to expedite the execution of new schemes.
Diabetes Clinics in Chamarajanagar PHCs Enhance Patient Convenience
The Department of Health and Family Welfare in Chamarajanagar district has introduced exclusive Diabetes Clinics in Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and taluk hospitals to provide early morning testing facilities for diabetic patients. These clinics operate every Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., allowing patients to undergo fasting blood glucose tests and consultations conveniently. Launched in February 2023, the initiative aims to ease the process for patients, especially the elderly, who previously had to wait for regular PHC hours to get tested. The clinics are equipped with labs to conduct glucose level tests, and patient records are documented and monitored monthly using the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) portal. The district has 59 PHCs, 4 CHCs, 3 Namma Clinics, and 2 Urban Primary Health Centres (UPCs). Patients requiring further consultations are referred to taluk hospitals or medical college hospitals. The response to the clinics has been positive, with plans to share detailed patient feedback and data in the coming months.
Heritage (1)
Safety Concerns at UNESCO Heritage Site Hampi After Gang Rape Incident
On March 6, 2024, a group of five individuals, including three men and two women, were involved in a tragic incident near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi in Koppal district, Karnataka. The group, which included the owner of a homestay, had gone stargazing when they were allegedly subjected to a brutal gang rape and physical assault. One of the men tragically succumbed to his injuries. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of tourists and the impact on local businesses. Special Correspondent Kumar Buradikatti visited the site to investigate the matter, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures at heritage and tourist locations.
Economy (5)
Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway Project to Boost Economic Growth, Set for June 2026 Completion
The Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway, a ₹17,000-crore greenfield infrastructure project, is expected to be fully operational by June 2026, as announced by Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari in response to a query in the Rajya Sabha. Initially slated for completion by August 2025, the project has faced delays, with only 71 km of the 262-km stretch completed so far. The expressway, which connects Hoskote in Karnataka to Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu, aims to reduce travel time and fuel consumption between the two cities, acting as a catalyst for economic growth along its route. While the Karnataka portion became informally accessible in December 2024, sections in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are still under construction. The expressway is divided into three packages in Karnataka: Hoskote to Malur (27.1 km), Malur to Bangarpet (27.1 km), and Bangarpet to Bethamangala (17.5 km). The project has faced challenges, including the relocation of electricity towers, but land acquisition has been relatively smooth. The NHAI has imposed a ban on two-wheelers using the expressway following a tragic accident on March 3, 2024. Once completed, the expressway is expected to alleviate traffic congestion on the existing route via Hosur, Krishnagiri, and Ranipet, which spans 340 km and takes around six hours to traverse.
India and U.S. Engage in Positive Trade Talks Under 'Mission 500' Initiative
India and the United States are actively working to enhance bilateral trade, as stated by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal on March 17, 2025. The discussions, described as 'positive,' are part of 'Mission 500,' an initiative aimed at increasing trade between the two countries from $200 billion to $500 billion. These talks also include negotiations on a multi-sectoral bilateral trade agreement. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal visited Washington DC from March 4 to 6, 2025, where he met U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The talks focused on resolving trade disputes, including the issue of reciprocal tariffs proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, set to take effect from April 2, 2025. Additionally, the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars (SPMEPC), notified in March 2024, offers reduced customs duty of 15% (instead of 70%) for five years to manufacturers setting up production facilities in India with a minimum investment of ₹4,150 crore. The policy requires domestic value addition of 25% by the third year and 50% by the fifth year. While Tesla has not yet expressed interest in domestic manufacturing in India, President Trump criticized India’s high tariffs on cars during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the U.S., but both sides agreed to work towards an early trade deal.
Karnataka High Court Clarifies Scope of Micro Loan Ordinance, Excludes Hire Purchase Transactions
The Karnataka High Court, on Monday, clarified that the Karnataka Micro Loan and Small Loan (Prevention of Coercive Actions) Ordinance, 2025, does not apply to secured hire purchase transactions conducted by regulated entities, such as members of the Karnataka Hire Purchase Association. The court emphasized that the ordinance is designed to protect borrowers from vulnerable sections of society, particularly those with an annual household income of ₹3 lakh or less, who are trapped in unsecured microfinance loans without collateral. Justice M. Nagaprasanna dismissed a petition filed by the Karnataka Hire Purchase Association, which had challenged the ordinance, stating that the ordinance is rooted in social justice and does not affect hire purchase agreements. The court relied on a 2022 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular, which defines microfinance loans as collateral-free loans for households with an annual income of up to ₹3 lakh, to clarify that hire purchase loans are not covered under the ordinance. The court also noted that the ordinance aims to protect vulnerable groups, such as farmers, women workers, and marginalized communities, from exploitative recovery practices by unlicensed microfinance institutions.
Chai Kings Secures ₹24 Crore in Series A Funding from AVT for Expansion
Chai Kings, a prominent tea retail chain, has successfully raised ₹24 crore ($3 million) in its Series A funding round from A.V. Thomas and Co. Ltd. (AVT), one of India’s leading packaged tea companies. This investment is aimed at accelerating Chai Kings' expansion plans, enhancing its product offerings, and strengthening its supply chain. Additionally, the funds will be utilized for technology-driven customer engagement and improving operational efficiencies. The company has projected a revenue of ₹48 crore with a positive EBITDA for FY25, showcasing its robust financial performance. Chai Kings also plans to double its revenue over the next two years while maintaining profitability, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable and scalable growth. Founded in 2016, the company currently operates 57 stores across Chennai, Hyderabad, and Coimbatore. As part of this funding round, The Chennai Angels (TCA), an early investor, is making a partial exit with substantial returns.
Karnataka Government Plans to Rationalise Posts and Divide Liabilities to Address Financial Crisis in State Universities
State-run universities in Karnataka are facing severe financial distress, struggling to pay salaries and pensions. The Karnataka government is considering dividing liabilities among universities created after bifurcation and rationalising posts to address the issue. Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar informed the Legislative Council that bifurcated universities are not financially burdened, while older ones are struggling. He proposed transferring some liabilities to newer universities. Additionally, 2,800 teaching posts across universities remain vacant, with 65% of teaching and 80% of non-teaching staff positions unfilled. The minister acknowledged that some posts were created without the Finance Department's approval and emphasised filling vacancies in stages. A Cabinet sub-committee is working on a comprehensive solution to address financial and operational challenges, including cutting unnecessary expenses. Dr. Sudhakar highlighted that the establishment of Karnataka State Open University reduced income from distance education for other universities. Amendments to the Karnataka State Universities Act are being discussed to strengthen state-run universities.
Politics (5)
Palaniswami Asserts AIADMK Unity Amid Internal Speculations
On Monday, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami addressed concerns about internal party divisions, particularly regarding the absence of veteran leader K.A. Sengottaiyan at a recent meeting of party legislators. Palaniswami dismissed rumors of discord, emphasizing the unity within the AIADMK and stating that no external forces could destabilize the party. He also responded to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s assertion that the no-trust motion against Assembly Speaker M. Appavu was a diversion from AIADMK’s internal issues. Palaniswami defended the motion, noting that none of the party’s points against the Speaker were disputed. Additionally, he commented on the support extended by former party coordinator O. Panneerselvam, suggesting that the Speaker may not have allowed Panneerselvam to speak during the Assembly session.
Pinarayi Vijayan Reaffirms Kerala’s Commitment to Communal Harmony, Criticizes Opposition
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, during discussions on the demand for grants in the Kerala Assembly, reiterated the government’s commitment to communal harmony and political stability. He accused the Opposition of spreading false narratives for political gains and highlighted Kerala’s governance system as a safeguard against communal discord. Mr. Vijayan praised the Kerala Police for their humane approach, contrasting it with incidents in other states, such as the Alwar tragedy in Rajasthan. He also emphasized the State’s efficiency in delivering justice, citing the Sharon murder case in Kerala and the RG Kar rape and murder case in Kolkata. The Chief Minister criticized the Opposition for not admitting its alleged mistakes in cases like the Walayar rape case, the attack on the AKG Centre, and the arson of Swami Sandeepananda Giri’s ashram. He dismissed allegations of special treatment to convicts in the T.P. Chandrasekharan murder case.
Andhra Pradesh MLAs Demand House Committee Probe into Cooperative Bank Corruption
The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly recently witnessed a heated debate over allegations of corruption in the AP State Cooperative Bank Limited (APCOB), District Cooperative Central Banks (DCCBs), and Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) during 2019-24. MLAs Koona Ravi Kumar, Dhulipalla Narendra Kumar, Yarlagadda Venkat Rao, and Burla Ramanjaneyulu pressed Minister for Agriculture and Cooperation K. Atchannaidu for delays in holding the culprits accountable. The MLAs criticized the lack of inquiries and action against those involved. Mr. Atchannaidu responded that the government was acting swiftly but faced legal hurdles, including court stays, which delayed proceedings. He assured that the government was working to overcome these challenges and would take action against those responsible for financial losses. The MLAs demanded a House Committee probe, which the Deputy Speaker K. Raghu Ramakrishna Raju agreed to bring to the Speaker’s notice on March 18. Mr. Narendra Kumar described the corruption as 'organized crime,' citing the misuse of government buildings for private purposes by YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders. Another MLA blamed senior managerial personnel of APCOB, DCCB officers, and PACS Secretaries for the corruption. Mr. Atchannaidu also highlighted resistance to departmental transfers and digitization efforts, stating that the digitization of cooperative banks would be operational by April 1, 2025. Earlier, Mr. Ravi Kumar accused officials of misleading the House by not providing detailed replies to questions, to which the Deputy Speaker acknowledged the failure of the Assembly Secretariat and promised timely responses in the future.
Jain Community Protests Karnataka Government's Neglect of Demands
The Jain community in Karnataka has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the State government's neglect of their demands, particularly the establishment of a board or corporation for their development. In response, community members organized a protest march, 'Bengaluru Chalo,' on Tuesday. Jain monk Sri Gunadhar Nandi Maharaj criticized the Siddaramaiah-led government for failing to fulfill promises made during the Belagavi session of the Legislature, where seven demands were raised, but only three have been addressed so far. The community plans to meet Housing, Waqf, and Minority Welfare Minister Zameer Ahmed and former Deputy Chief Minister Laxman Savadi to reiterate their demands. If the government continues to ignore their pleas, the community has threatened to hold a mega convention in Ainapur, Belagavi district, on June 8, and Sri Gunadhar Nandi Maharaj has vowed to undertake a 'Sallekhana Vratha' (fast unto death) in front of the Vidhana Soudha.
Opposition Parties Rally Against Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
On March 17, 2025, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) organized a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which it claimed was an attempt to intimidate Muslims and undermine their constitutional rights under Articles 12 to 35. The protest saw widespread participation from major Opposition parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Communist Party of India, CPI (Marxist), CPI (Marxist–Leninist), Nationalist Congress Party, and the Indian Union Muslim League. Notably, the Biju Janata Dal also joined the protest, while BJP allies such as the Telugu Desam Party, Janata Dal (United), and Lok Janshakti Party abstained. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized BJP allies for supporting the Bill, calling it unconstitutional and warning of long-term consequences for Muslim properties. Congress MP Mohammed Jawaid and former Union Minister Salman Khurshid emphasized the need for resistance both inside and outside Parliament. The protest also saw participation from prominent Muslim organizations like Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, who argued that the Bill targeted Muslim rights and violated constitutional principles. AIMPLB president Khalid Saifullah Rehmani declared the protest as the beginning of a nationwide movement against the Bill.
World Affairs (2)
VD Satheesan Calls for UN Action Against Technofeudalism at UN Replica-2025 Event
Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, V.D. Satheesan, emphasized the growing economic disparities caused by the dominance of digital infrastructure, data, and technology by a few developed nations. Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘United Nations Replica-2025’—a model General Assembly of the UN organized by the Department of Political Science and the Centre for Latin American Studies at the University of Kerala—Satheesan called for the United Nations to take a proactive role in addressing the rise of technofeudalism, a system controlled by technocrats and financial elites. He highlighted the risks posed by Artificial Intelligence in this era and drew historical parallels, comparing the political climate of the early twentieth century to the present. Satheesan noted that while much of Asia and Africa were under colonial rule in the last century, financial colonialism persists today, facilitated by technologically advanced capitalist nations. Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, in his keynote address, underscored India’s role as a leading manufacturer of generic medicines and a major global provider of COVID-19 vaccines. He also criticized the current structure of the UN Security Council for not reflecting India’s growing global significance and called for its restructuring to grant India a permanent seat. Other speakers included Prof. Girish Kumar R., Head of the Department of Political Science; Syndicate member Ahmad Faisal; and Registrar Prof. K. S. Anil Kumar.
KIA to Launch Three New International Routes to Thailand, Vietnam, and Maldives
Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru is set to launch three new international routes this summer, connecting the city to Krabi in Thailand, Hanoi in Vietnam, and Hanimaadhoo in Maldives. Indigo will commence operations on the Bengaluru-Krabi route from March 30, making Krabi the second Indian city with a direct connection to this popular Thai beach destination. Vietnam Airlines will initiate direct flights to Hanoi starting May 1, operating four times weekly. Additionally, Maldivian will begin services between Hanimaadhoo and Bengaluru on May 15, with two weekly flights. Vietjet will also introduce direct flights from Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City starting March 19. KIA, recently designated as a 'large airport,' already connects to 31 international destinations and has been India’s third busiest airport for international passenger traffic since October 2024.
Appointments (1)
Prof. Allam Srinivasa Rao Appointed In-Charge V-C of Yogi Vemana University
The Government of Andhra Pradesh, on Monday, appointed Prof. Allam Srinivasa Rao as the in-charge Vice-Chancellor (V-C) of Yogi Vemana University (YVU) in Kadapa. Prof. Rao, who currently serves as the V-C of Vikrama Simhapuri University (VSU) in Nellore, has been given this additional responsibility. The appointment was made by the Higher Education Department under the instructions of the Governor, and the official announcement was issued by Kona Sasidhar, Secretary to the government. This interim appointment will remain effective until further orders are issued by the government.
Awards (1)
Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Announces 2024 Fellowships and Awards
The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi announced its 2024 fellowships and awards on Monday, recognizing outstanding contributions in the fields of classical music, theatre, and dance. Veena artiste A. Ananthapadmanabhan, playwright and theatre director Xavier Pulppatt, and dancer Kalamandalam Saraswathi were awarded the prestigious Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Fellowship, which includes a cash prize of ₹50,000, a plaque, a certificate, and a sculpture. Additionally, 18 individuals were selected for the 2024 awards across various categories, and 22 individuals received the Guru Pooja Awards, honoring those over 60 years of age who have significantly contributed to their respective art forms. The Guru Pooja Awardees will each receive ₹30,000, along with a plaque and a certificate. The award ceremony date will be announced later by Karivellur Murali, Secretary of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi.
Elections (1)
KPCC Strategizes to Strengthen UDF in Upcoming Kerala Local Body and Assembly Elections
The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) held a crucial leadership meeting on Monday, focusing on strategies to strengthen the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the upcoming local body polls and the 2026 Assembly elections. The KPCC aims to leverage the electoral influence of two significant backward class communities, particularly the Ezhava community, by highlighting the BJP’s alleged disrespect towards historical events like Mahatma Gandhi’s meeting with Sree Narayana Guru. Additionally, the Congress plans to consolidate its traditional support among the Latin Catholic fisherfolk community by opposing the Centre’s move to allow seabed mining off Kerala’s coast. The KPCC will launch a 'kadal ora padayatra' on May 9, covering nine coastal districts, and organize a 640-km human chain against drugs on August 8. The meeting also analyzed the UDF’s performance in recent bypolls, where it won 12 out of 30 local body wards, compared to the LDF’s 15. KPCC president K. Sudhakaran chaired the meeting, attended by DCC presidents and other State-level office-bearers.
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