Important News - 2025-03-24
24 March 2025
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Politics (9)
DMK Reaffirms Support for Muslim Community, Allocates ₹405 Crore for Welfare Schemes
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, while addressing an Iftar event organized by the DMK in Thiruvanmiyur, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to supporting the political rights of the Muslim community. He highlighted the DMK’s consistent efforts to safeguard Muslims from political threats, particularly opposing the BJP government’s policies. Stalin noted that the state government has allocated ₹405 crore over the past four years for welfare schemes benefiting minority communities, including the construction of the Tamil Nadu Hajj House in Nanganallur. He criticized the AIADMK for supporting the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in the Rajya Sabha, which the DMK and its allies opposed. Stalin also accused former Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami of attending Iftar parties despite acting against Muslim interests. Additionally, the DMK opposes the Uniform Civil Code and plans to challenge the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Supreme Court if it becomes law.
Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti Reconsiders Resignation Amid Political Appeals
Basavaraj Horatti, the Chairman of the Karnataka Legislative Council, recently revealed that he had considered resigning from his position due to dissatisfaction with the functioning of the House. In an interview at his residence in Hubballi, Horatti expressed his distress over the lack of decorum and constructive discussions during the passing of bills. He also highlighted the non-cooperation in implementing reforms within the Council Secretariat. Although he had prepared a signed resignation letter, he did not submit it as he was advised against it by prominent political leaders, including the Governor, Chief Minister, and various ministers. Horatti clarified that his decision was unrelated to the upcoming nominations or any no-confidence motion against him. He emphasized his commitment to stepping down if such a motion were initiated. Currently, he is reconsidering his resignation based on the counsel of his well-wishers and political allies.
TDP MP Accuses YSRCP of ₹18,860 Crore Liquor Scam in Andhra Pradesh (2019-2024)
During a speech on the Finance Bill 2025-26 in New Delhi, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Lok Sabha floor leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu accused the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) of orchestrating a massive liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh between 2019 and 2024. He alleged that the YSRCP monopolized liquor production, engaged in financial misconduct, and diverted public funds abroad. Devarayalu claimed that the scam surpassed the corruption in the Delhi Excise Policy scandal, resulting in a loss of ₹18,860.52 crore to the state exchequer. He detailed corruption at three levels—pre-production, production, and distribution—and accused the YSRCP of illegally taking over distilleries, creating benami companies, and introducing sub-standard liquor brands. He also highlighted that out of ₹99,413 crore in liquor revenue, only ₹615 crore was transacted digitally, raising concerns about financial irregularities. Devarayalu urged the Union government to provide Revenue Deficit Assistance to Andhra Pradesh and bring liquor under the GST framework for transparency. He also called for a thorough investigation by the Enforcement Directorate and other Central agencies.
BJD Advocates for 27% OBC Reservation in Odisha Jobs and Education
The Odisha Legislative Assembly witnessed disruptions as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) demanded a 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in jobs and education. This issue has been a focal point of contention between the BJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with both parties vying to strengthen their support among OBCs. BJD legislators showcased placards advocating for proportionate reservations for Scheduled Tribes (STs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and OBCs in technical education institutions, alongside the 27% OBC reservation. Senior BJD leader Arun Sahoo highlighted that while STs and SCs constitute nearly 40% of Odisha’s population, OBCs make up 54%, yet they lack reservation in educational institutions. He criticized Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for not implementing OBC reservations despite previous demands. Earlier in 2021, ahead of the panchayat elections, the BJD had pledged 27% reservation for OBCs. The party has also sought a caste-based census and advocated for increasing reservation beyond the 50% ceiling through Central legislation. Recently, the Samajika Nyaya Abhijan (SNA), a forum of non-BJP political parties and social organizations, urged the inclusion of a caste-based census in the forthcoming national census to address inequities faced by OBCs in education and employment.
R. Ashok Alleges Illegal Phone Tapping of Government Leaders in Karnataka
Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R. Ashok, has alleged that the phones of prominent government leaders are being illegally tapped to suppress political opponents. Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru on Monday, Ashok claimed that Congress legislators themselves have revealed details of such unauthorized surveillance. He also linked these allegations to the ongoing power tussle within the ruling Congress party, citing the recent honey-trap accusations made by Minister K.N. Rajanna. In response, Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that he was unaware of any such complaints and assured that the matter would be investigated if a formal complaint is lodged. Parameshwara clarified that while intelligence agencies may tap phones under specific circumstances with government approval, neither Chief Minister Siddaramaiah nor he had knowledge of the alleged illegal tapping. Ashok further accused the Congress of adopting a divide-and-rule policy to create religious divisions for political gains and criticized the suspension of 18 BJP MLAs for protesting, alleging that Speaker U.T. Khader acted under government pressure.
Perambalur Designates Three Venues for Public Protests and Meetings
The Perambalur district administration has designated three specific locations for public demonstrations, meetings, and rallies. The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Perambalur Collector Grace Pachuau, attended by Superintendent of Police Adarsh Pachera and revenue officials. The identified venues are near the Gandhi statue close to the Perambalur old bus stand, the new bus stand, and Vanoli Thidal. The venues are allocated based on the number of participants: up to 100 people at the old bus stand, up to 200 at the new bus stand, and between 200 and 500 at Vanoli Thidal. Priority will be given to the first applicants in case of overlapping requests. Additionally, participants requested a designated area at Palakarai within the municipal limits for protests, which the administration has agreed to examine. Permission must be obtained for all such events.
CBI Arrests NHAI Official and Private Company Representatives in ₹15 Lakh Bribery Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested four individuals, including a General Manager (GM) of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and three others connected to a private company, in connection with a bribery case. The bribe amounted to ₹15 lakh and was allegedly exchanged to facilitate undue favours in processing and approving bills related to NHAI contracts. The CBI registered a case on March 22, 2025, against 12 accused, including six NHAI officials, four senior representatives of the private company, and others. On March 22, 2025, a trap was laid, leading to the arrest of the private company representative, the NHAI GM, and the private company GM during the bribe exchange. Searches across multiple locations, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, Purnia, Ranchi, and Varanasi, resulted in the recovery of ₹1.18 crore in cash, incriminating documents, and digital devices. The investigation is ongoing.
Kerala ASHAs Stage Mass Hunger Strike Demanding Better Remuneration
Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in Kerala, represented by the Kerala ASHA Health Workers’ Association (KAHWA), observed a mass hunger strike on Monday to demand better remuneration. This protest has been ongoing for 42 days, with some ASHAs staging an indefinite hunger strike in front of the Secretariat for the past five days. The hunger strike saw participation from members of civil society, various political parties, and voluntary organizations. A KAHWA spokesperson highlighted that ASHAs across the state fasted in solidarity with their colleagues. Meanwhile, the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP) emphasized that both the Central and State governments should address the grievances of ASHAs, who play a crucial role in the healthcare system at the grassroots level. The KSSP stressed the need for a fair pay package for these health workers.
Karnataka Cabinet to Decide on Milk Price Hike Amid KMF’s ₹5 Per Litre Demand
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) on Monday, stating that the State Cabinet would decide on the proposed hike in milk prices. The KMF had sought an increase of ₹5 per litre, citing rising input costs, with the last price revision of ₹3 per litre occurring in August 2023. Currently, Karnataka sells milk at ₹42 per litre, the lowest among neighboring states. Siddaramaiah emphasized that any approved price hike should directly benefit farmers and urged the KMF to reduce administrative expenses, which exceeded 2% in some district milk unions. He set a three-month deadline to cut these expenses to 2.5%, with further reductions to below 2% in the subsequent three months. The Chief Minister also highlighted the need for transparency and efficiency in milk unions to ensure farmers' convenience and profitability.
Schemes (7)
DBT Achieves Milestone in TB Genome Sequencing Under 'Dare2eraD TB' Program
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has successfully completed the genomic sequencing of 10,000 samples of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, achieving one-third of its target to sequence 32,500 samples by November 2025. This initiative, part of the 'Dare2eraD TB' program launched in 2022, aims to enhance the understanding of drug-resistant TB and capture unique genomic features of the TB bacterium in India. The preliminary findings, presented on World TB Day (March 24, 2025), revealed that 7% of the sequenced samples are resistant to a single drug. The project involves nine laboratories under the DBT, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), forming the Indian Tuberculosis Genomic Surveillance consortium. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the 2018 End TB Summit, had set an ambitious goal to eradicate TB in India by 2025, five years ahead of the WHO's target of 2030. India accounts for 28% of global TB cases, with an estimated 1,990 cases per million in 2022. The initiative also focuses on leveraging AI to reduce TB confirmation time from three weeks to one week, addressing challenges like drug-resistant TB and asymptomatic carriers.
Telangana’s PDS Reforms: A Model for India with ₹409 Crore Rice Seizure
Telangana’s Public Distribution System (PDS) reforms, driven by the adoption of modern technology in fair price shops, have resulted in significant achievements. Principal Secretary of Civil Supplies and the State PDS department, D.S. Chauhan, highlighted that these reforms have led to the seizure of rice worth ₹409 crore, which was being diverted from the PDS. The technological interventions have curbed irregularities and optimized supply routes, saving the State between ₹12 to ₹15 crore. Speaking at an international seminar at IIM Raipur, Mr. Chauhan emphasized that these reforms, along with the distribution of fine rice through PDS, have ensured food security for marginalized communities, making Telangana a role model for India. The State also received the SKOCH Award for its adaptive approach to paddy procurement, particularly in managing challenges posed by changing weather conditions. Additionally, Telangana’s agreement with the Philippines for rice exports marks a significant milestone for the PDS department, further strengthening its impact.
BBMP to Use AI for Illegal Construction Detection and Distribute Pushcarts to Vendors
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to identify illegal constructions in Bengaluru, as announced by Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar. This initiative aims to enhance tax compliance by bringing over 6 lakh unregulated properties under the tax net, with 1 lakh already regularised. The government has introduced a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme and amended legislation to empower the municipal corporation to seize illegal constructions. Additionally, the BBMP will provide free property records at residents’ doorsteps and distribute 10,000 pushcarts to registered street vendors, as part of efforts to regulate vending activities. The pushcarts will be of four types—auto, bicycle, bike-based, and traditional models—and operational data will be recorded to prevent misuse. The deadline for vendor registration has been extended until April 2024. Furthermore, the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024 has been approved, paving the way for BBMP elections, which have been pending for five years. The government is in discussions with opposition parties to finalise electoral procedures.
TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Expands Nationwide with Advanced Screening and Treatment Strategies
The Union Health Minister, J. P. Nadda, announced the nationwide expansion of the intensified TB elimination campaign during the World TB Day 2025 summit. The 100-day TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, launched on December 7, 2024, successfully screened 12.97 crore people, identifying 7.19 lakh TB patients, including 2.85 lakh asymptomatic cases. The campaign, which involved over 5,000 MLAs and 10,000 Gram Panchayats, increased TB treatment coverage in India from 59% to 85%. Utilizing advanced technologies like handheld X-ray units and Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), the campaign reached remote and underserved areas through mobile vans (Nikshay Vahans). Over 13.46 lakh community screening camps (Nikshay Shivirs) were organized, and 1,05,181 new Nikshay Mitras distributed 3,06,368 food baskets to TB patients and their families. The campaign also enforced screening of vulnerable populations, including asymptomatic individuals and those with chronic comorbidities. India’s TB research funding and indigenous diagnostic kits developed by ICMR played a crucial role in reducing costs and improving efficiency. A digital Coffee Table Book and a ‘Guidance Document on Differentiated TB Care’ were unveiled, and States and Union Territories were awarded for their performance in the TB-Mukt Gram Panchayat Initiative.
Andhra Pradesh Accelerates RTGS Data Integration for Enhanced WhatsApp Governance
In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand emphasized the need to expedite the data integration process of the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) to implement the data lake initiative and enhance WhatsApp Governance. During a review meeting on Monday, Vijayanand urged department heads to promptly submit their data to align with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision of improving public service delivery. He expressed satisfaction with the availability of over 200 government services on WhatsApp and proposed focusing on voice-based services and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for better outcomes. IT & Real-Time Governance Department Secretary Katamneni Bhaskar highlighted the ongoing incorporation of AI features to enable services via text and voice commands, currently in the testing phase. The government is also establishing the AP Weather Forecasting and Early Warning Research Center (AWARE) Hub as part of the RTGS to provide real-time weather updates to citizens and farmers. Key officials, including Principal Secretary (GAD-Political) Mukesh Kumar Meena and RTGS In-Charge CEO M. Madhuri, attended the meeting.
Kochi Corporation Budget 2025-26 Focuses on Marginalised Communities and Infrastructure Development
Mayor M. Anilkumar has described the Kochi Corporation Budget for the 2025-26 financial year as people-friendly, with a focus on marginalised communities such as workers, street vendors, and Haritha Karma Sena members. Key proposals include issuing health cards and introducing an insurance scheme for Haritha Karma Sena workers. The Mayor emphasized the need for the formation of the Kochi Metropolitan Authority to address development beyond the Corporation's geographical limits, including areas like Brahmapuram, Angamaly, North Paravur, and Aroor. The Corporation aims to reduce outstanding dues to contractors from 39 months to one year and plans to issue municipal bonds during the 2025-26 fiscal to fund infrastructure development and key projects like backwater dredging. Additionally, a technology-infused property tax survey will be conducted to streamline revenue collection, starting in two divisions and expanding to all 74 divisions.
Government Urges Hospitals to Comply with National Transplant Registry Data Submission
The Union Government has raised serious concerns over the failure of hospitals to share data on organ transplantation activities with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In a communication dated March 19, 2025, the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), operating under the Directorate General of Health Services, urged State Health Secretaries to ensure immediate compliance. NOTTO emphasized that the non-submission of daily and monthly data by registered transplant hospitals is hindering the objectives of the National Transplant Registry. Under Section 13D of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994, NOTTO is mandated to maintain this registry to monitor transplantation activities, ensure transparency, facilitate equitable organ allocation, and support policymaking. The Centre has directed hospitals to update comprehensive data on deceased and living donors and recipients on the NOTTO web portal within 48 hours of transplantation. The State Appropriate Authority (SAA) has been tasked with enforcing compliance and taking action against non-compliant hospitals. This issue gained urgency following allegations of commercial dealings and a surge in organ transplants for foreign nationals, prompting the Health Ministry to enforce stricter guidelines.
Awards (1)
ME&MC Week Concludes with Awards for Sustainable Mining Practices
The Mines Environment and Mineral Conservation (ME&MC) Week concluded with a focus on promoting sustainable mining practices and environmental conservation. G.C. Sethi, Regional Controller of Mines, Indian Bureau of Mines, Chennai, emphasized the need for adopting advanced techniques and adhering to regulations to ensure systematic mine development and mineral conservation. He highlighted Tamil Nadu’s importance as a mineral-rich state and stressed the significance of maintaining a clean and green mining environment. The event, jointly organized by the ME&MC Council, Tamil Nadu, and Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd., saw participation from 43 mines. K. Vinayagamurthi, Executive Director of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd., noted that the ME&MC Week provided a platform for industry engagement with local communities, workforce empowerment, and showcasing commitment to sustainable mining. The event also featured an awards ceremony honoring individuals, organizations, and initiatives for their outstanding contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable mining practices.
Miscellaneous (6)
Kerala Toddy Shop Licensee Association Demands Probe into Chittur Shop Closures
The Kerala Toddy Shop Licensee Association has called for an investigation into the closure of 21 toddy shops in Chittur after tests revealed the presence of diphenhydramine, a chemical commonly found in cough syrups, in the toddy supplied by these shops. The CPI(M) has backed this demand. The samples were tested at a laboratory in Kakkanad. Association officials, including secretary K.K. Bhageerathan and president A. Raveendran, have alleged foul play, claiming that the tests were manipulated to frame certain licensees. They argued that adding cough syrup to toddy would not enhance its potency, flavour, or financial benefits, and pointed out that no colour change was observed in the toddy supplied by the shops. Bhageerathan also raised concerns about the testing process, noting that samples from all 21 shops were tested by a single person, contrary to the usual practice of involving multiple groups and maintaining transparency with three samples. The closure of these shops has left dozens of toddy workers unemployed and raised fears of the sale of unauthorised toddy and liquor in the affected areas.
Koutala Police Construct Home for Homeless Orphan Sisters Under 'Police Mee Kosam' Initiative
The Koutala police in Kumram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana, undertook a commendable initiative to provide a permanent home for two orphan sisters, Lakshmi (30) and Shyamala (27), from Bodampally village. The sisters, who lost their parents over a decade ago, were living in extreme poverty, with one of them being paralysed. Their plight was brought to light by a local youth, G. Srinivas, who shared their story on social media, seeking help from philanthropists. Moved by their situation, the Koutala police, led by Sub-Inspector Madhukar, collaborated with the local community to construct a house under the district police outreach initiative, ‘Police Mee Kosam.’ On Monday, the newly-constructed house was officially handed over to the sisters in the presence of Kumram Bheem Asifabad Superintendent of Police, D. V. Srinivasa Rao, during a ceremony held in Bodampally.
Federation Demands Fresh Survey of Roadside Vendors in Tiruchi
The Federation of All Roadside Vendors Associations of Tiruchi has requested the district administration to conduct a fresh survey of roadside vendors in the city. In a petition submitted on Monday, the federation highlighted inaccuracies in the existing list maintained by the Tiruchi Corporation, which reportedly includes names of individuals such as wholesale traders, tailors, autorickshaw drivers, and self-help group members who are not genuine street vendors. A. Ansardeen, the district secretary of the federation, emphasized that many impoverished roadside vendors from marginalized sections of society were excluded from the list. The federation has urged the Tiruchi Corporation to undertake a proper survey to ensure accurate identification and inclusion of genuine street vendors.
CBSE Schools Council Proposes Semester-Based Board Exams from 2026
The Council of CBSE Schools Kerala (CCSK) has proposed a semester-based system for board examinations starting in 2026. This suggestion follows a comprehensive survey conducted among its 1,500 member schools in response to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) draft policy advocating for two board exams annually. The proposed schedule includes the first phase of Class X exams from February 17 to March 6 and the second phase from May 5 to 20. However, 40% of respondents expressed concerns about the feasibility of this policy, citing issues such as prolonged exam periods, logistical challenges, and increased teacher workload. Additionally, 89% of schools highlighted logistical hurdles in accommodating two exams within the current academic framework. Despite these concerns, 35% of respondents acknowledged potential benefits, including reduced exam pressure, continuous learning, and support for slow learners. The CCSK recommended a two-semester academic year with exams in October and March, emphasizing the need to address implementation challenges for the policy's success.
Tamil Nadu Braces for Rising Temperatures and Dry Weather from March 25
Tamil Nadu is set to experience a significant rise in day temperatures starting March 25, marking the onset of a simmering summer. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has indicated that dry weather will gradually return to most parts of the state by March 27, except for districts along the Western Ghats, which may receive light to moderate rainfall until March 27. The RMC has warned that high maximum temperatures and humidity, coupled with above-normal night temperatures (2-3°C higher than usual), may lead to uncomfortable weather conditions in certain areas until March 28. Over the past 24 hours, some regions recorded light to moderate rainfall, with Villupuram receiving the highest rainfall of 5 cm. Vellore recorded the highest temperature in the state at 37.6°C on March 25. This March, Tamil Nadu has received 46.2 mm of rainfall, nearly triple its normal share, marking one of the highest March rainfalls in decades. The RMC also opened its campuses in Nungambakkam, Meenambakkam, and Rajai Salai on March 25 for public viewing of meteorological facilities as part of World Meteorological Day celebrations.
Retired Scientists Criticize Deficient HLC Report on Anakapalli Pharma Unit Accident
A group of retired scientists from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, led by K. Babu Rao, former principal scientist at the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, criticized the High-Level Committee (HLC) report on the accident at Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Limited's pharmaceutical manufacturing unit in Anakapalli district. The accident, which resulted in 17 deaths and 39 serious injuries, highlighted critical safety deficiencies, including poor maintenance, unsafe work practices, and a flawed ventilation system. The scientists pointed out that the Inspector of Factories issued an operating license without adequately assessing the safety of the ventilation system, which was a major contributing factor to the severity of the incident. They also criticized the HLC report for lacking essential details, failing to address regulatory oversight, and not thoroughly analyzing the causes of the vapor cloud explosion. The scientists emphasized the need for a comprehensive and transparent investigation to prevent similar tragedies and improve safety standards. They also highlighted the misapplication of ‘Ease of Doing Business’ principles, which prioritize regulatory leniency over environmental and occupational safety, fostering a culture of leniency that hinders the development of a future-ready industry.
Economy (1)
Shashi Tharoor Highlights Unequal Revenue Distribution to South Indian States in Lok Sabha Debate
During the debate on the Finance Bill in the Lok Sabha on March 24, 2025, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor highlighted the unequal distribution of central revenue to South Indian states. He argued that states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana, which contribute significantly to the nation’s economy, receive only 15% of the central tax pool despite generating over a quarter of direct taxes and 28.5% of GST. Tharoor criticized the GST structure as complex and inefficient, with India’s GST rate at 28% while tax revenues remain at 18% of GDP. BJP’s Nishikant Dubey countered, emphasizing the economic growth from USD 2 trillion to USD 4.5 trillion under the BJP government. Opposition members also raised concerns about corporate loan write-offs, crony capitalism, and GST on life-saving drugs.
Heritage (1)
Kerala Launches 'Gothrabheri' Project to Address Human-Animal Conflict Using Tribal Wisdom
The Kerala Forest Department, in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) and the Scheduled Tribe Development Department, has initiated the 'Gothrabheri' project to address the rising human-animal conflict in the state. Tribal communities have proposed using controlled fire as a method to maintain biodiversity and forest ecosystems. They argue that controlled burning of grasslands, ideally every three years, regenerates grasslands and ensures food availability for herbivores, reducing the likelihood of animals straying into human habitats. The project includes seminars held in Thiruvananthapuram, Wayanad, and Idukki to facilitate dialogue between forest officials and tribal representatives. Additionally, tribespeople have called for the removal of alien tree species like acacia and eucalyptus, replacing them with natural grasslands. The KFRI plans to conduct a study on the food and behavioral patterns of wild animals and submit a detailed report to the Forest Department. Chief Wildlife Warden Pramod G. Krishnan stated that tribal knowledge will be integrated into the management plan for mitigating human-animal conflicts, with a workshop scheduled in Thiruvananthapuram upon project completion.
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