Important News - 2025-04-07

07 April 2025

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Economy (1)

Ernakulam RTO Auction Sets Record with ₹45.99 Lakh Fancy Number Sale

In a recent auction conducted by the Ernakulam Regional Transport Office (RTO), a private company secured the fancy vehicle registration number KL-07 DG 0007 for a record-breaking ₹45.99 lakh. This number was registered for a Lamborghini Urus, a luxury car valued at over ₹4 crore. The auction, held on April 7, 2024, saw intense bidding on the Parivahan website of the Motor Vehicles Department. The initial booking price for the number was ₹25,000, and five individuals participated in the auction. The bidding process required a minimum increment of ₹1,000, with no maximum cap. After three participants dropped out, the final bid of ₹45.99 lakh was made by the winning company. Another fancy number, KL-07 DG 0001, was sold for ₹25.52 lakh in a similar auction. The government has categorized fancy numbers into six groups with base prices ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹1 lakh. The Ernakulam RTO has contributed ₹11.84 crore to the state exchequer through such auctions between 2017 and 2022, as per a 2023 RTI reply.

Heritage (1)

Endangered Pallas’s Fish Eagle Continues Annual Migration to Kaziranga for Breeding

An endangered Pallas’s fish eagle, tagged in Mongolia, has been consistently visiting Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam for breeding since 2020. The bird, named Ider, was tagged by Mongolian scientist D. Batmunkh and has been observed by Indian ornithologists from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Ider follows the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), one of the nine global waterbird migration routes, traveling approximately 3,000 km between Buuntsagaan Lake in Mongolia and Kaziranga. The bird has bred successfully in Kaziranga for five consecutive years, using the same nesting spot four times. Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a critical habitat for migratory birds, hosting over 500 bird species. The Pallas’s fish eagle, a poorly studied species, is estimated to have only 2,500 mature individuals in the wild. Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted Ider’s annual visits as a significant event for Assam’s recognition in global bird migration studies.

Miscellaneous (5)

A.P. Minister T.G. Bharath Praises Indian Red Cross Society on World Health Day

On the occasion of World Health Day, T.G. Bharath, the Industries and Commerce Minister of Andhra Pradesh, commended the Indian Red Cross Society for its services to the poor and needy. Alongside Kurnool MP B. Nagaraju, the Minister distributed wheelchairs to 38 physically challenged individuals. Mr. Bharath urged the public to utilize the services of voluntary organizations and highlighted their role in raising awareness about health issues. He emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups, citing instances of sudden deaths among young and healthy individuals. The Minister also expressed satisfaction over the proposal to establish a first-of-its-kind skin center in Kurnool. Additionally, certificates of appreciation were presented to Red Cross Society members for their contributions during the Maha Sivaratri and Ugadi festivals.

HYDRAA's Prajavani Program Addresses Lake and Land Encroachment Grievances

The Prajavani public grievance program, organized by the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), received 57 complaints on Monday, primarily concerning encroachments on lakes, water bodies, and public lands. Residents from Kapra reported the removal of fencing demarcating the full tank level (FTL) of Kapra Lake by encroachers. In Mallampet, Dundigal municipality, residents complained about blocked access ways due to walls built by a neighboring colony. Another grievance highlighted encroachment by a real estate company into the buffer area of a stormwater drain leading to Thimmakka Cheruvu in Patancheru. Additional complaints included encroachments on open spaces and government lands in Mettukaniguda and Gajularamaram, as well as graveyard encroachment in Parvathipuri village, Peerzadiguda municipality. HYDRAA Chief A.V. Ranganath emphasized the importance of FTL demarcation for resolving such issues and introduced the development of a Lake Enumeration app for this purpose. He directed officials to include a separate column for public objections in the process. The demarcation will be based on village revenue maps, HMDA, GHMC, Irrigation, Survey of India records, and NRSC satellite images.

DSEL Warns of Criminal Action Against Teachers Using Students for Toilet Cleaning

The Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) has issued a stern warning that criminal cases will be registered against teachers who involve students in cleaning school toilets, a practice that has been officially banned. This directive follows several recent incidents where students were compelled to clean toilets despite the prohibition. The Commissioner of Public Instruction has also issued a circular holding Block Education Officers (BEOs) and school headmasters accountable for such violations, with disciplinary actions to be taken against them. Teachers, however, have raised concerns about insufficient government grants for school maintenance, particularly for cleaning toilets. The government provides annual grants ranging from ₹4,000 for schools with fewer than 30 students to ₹40,000 for those with over 1,000 students. These funds are intended for various maintenance activities, including toilet cleaning, but are often inadequate and not disbursed fully or on time. For instance, in the fiscal year 2024-25, DSEL allocated ₹114.59 crore for the maintenance of 42,136 government schools but released only ₹45.15 crore in two installments. School managements in rural areas also face challenges in finding labor for toilet cleaning, often having to hire workers from urban areas at high costs. Despite raising these issues with the Department and local gram panchayats, no effective solutions have been implemented.

Telangana Crime Rate Drops, Detection Rates Rise in 2024

The crime rate in Telangana witnessed a decline of 4.9 percent in the second half of 2024 compared to the first half, as revealed during the Half-Yearly Crime Review meeting chaired by Director General of Police (DGP) Jitender. Major offences, except burglaries, showed a downward trend. The crime detection rate improved significantly to 76 percent in 2024, up from 57 percent in 2023. The disposal rate of undetected cases also rose by 20.49 percent, reflecting enhanced investigation efforts. DGP Jitender emphasized a citizen-centric approach to policing, urging officers to engage actively with the community and use the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) effectively. The meeting included presentations on visible policing, conviction rates, and cybercrime management, with participation from senior officials such as DG Intelligence B. Shivadhar Reddy and ADGP (Law and Order) Mahesh Bhagwat.

Tamil Nadu Forms Technical Committee to Address Bhavani River Pollution Concerns

The Tamil Nadu government announced the formation of a technical committee to address concerns over pollution in the Bhavani river due to the planned expansion of a textile processing unit in Gobichettipalayam taluk, Erode district. Finance and Environment Minister Thangam Thennarasu informed the Assembly that the committee would investigate the issue and provide recommendations, based on which the government would make its decision. The Minister emphasized the government's stance against allowing effluents from dyeing units into rivers and instructed Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials to take necessary steps. The unit, M/s. Sri Bhavani Textile Processors Private Limited, has been operational since 1984 and faced legal challenges and complaints, leading to temporary closures and disconnections of electricity supply between 2005 and 2020. Following a court case, the unit resumed operations with renewed permissions, and in February 2024, it was granted permission valid until March 2026. However, farmers and locals have protested against the unit, citing fears of river pollution during public grievance redress meetings held by the Erode Collector in February and March 2024.

Schemes (4)

Karumanchi Prasad Donates ₹10 Crore for Kommamuru Lift Irrigation Project Under Andhra Pradesh’s P4 Policy

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s Zero PovertyP4 policy has gained significant traction in Andhra Pradesh, inspiring individuals and institutions to collaborate with the government in poverty eradication efforts. Karumanchi Prasad, Chairman of Prasad Seeds, has pledged a personal donation of ₹10 crore to fund the Kommamuru Lift Irrigation Project in Guntur district. This project aims to address persistent irrigation challenges faced by farmers in the region, particularly in tail-end lands of the Kommamuru Canal. Once completed, it is expected to stabilize irrigation across 5,315 acres, benefiting villages like Kakumanu, BK Palem, Appapuram, Garikapadu, and Kondapaturu. The project includes constructing a 100-foot-wide canal along the final 10-kilometre stretch of the Kommamuru Canal, ensuring a continuous flow of 100 cusecs of water. Mr. Prasad, a native of Kakumanu village and a prominent figure in the seed industry, has a history of contributing to local development, including funding the Pedanandipadu Lift Irrigation Scheme in 1995. Chief Minister Naidu highlighted the P4 initiative (People–Private–Public–Partnership for Poverty Elimination) as a model for collective responsibility, with plans to establish a society to lead the initiative and recruit efficient personnel for its continuous implementation.

SCCL Launches 'Singareni Neeti Binduvu — Jala Sindhuvu' to Develop 50 Mini-Tanks for Water Conservation

The Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) has launched an initiative to construct 50 mini-tanks and ponds across its coal mining areas as part of its water conservation efforts. This initiative, named 'Singareni Neeti Binduvu — Jala Sindhuvu,' aims to improve the groundwater table and provide clean drinking water to local communities, especially during summer. The project will utilize opencast mine sumps and overburden dump mounds to create water bodies. Additionally, SCCL plans to enhance water storage in existing tanks and ponds within a two-kilometer radius of mining areas. The initiative also focuses on improving the green cover, increasing bird and wildlife populations, and supporting aquatic ecosystems. SCCL Chairman and Managing Director N. Balaram emphasized the company's commitment to environmentally friendly mining practices and social responsibility. A meeting was held with Area General Managers to discuss the development of these mini-tanks. The stored water will be regularly tested for quality to ensure it meets domestic and drinking water standards. Key officials, including Directors D. Satyanarayana Rao, L.V. Suryanarayana, K. Venkateshwarlu, and Executive Director Sd.M. Subhani, were present during the discussions.

Congress MLA Praises Fine Rice Scheme, Accuses BRS of Smear Campaign

Medipally Sathyam, Congress MLA from Choppadandi, has accused the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) of initiating a smear campaign against the fine rice distribution scheme (Sanna Biyyam). Speaking at Gandhi Bhavan, Mr. Sathyam praised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for implementing the scheme, which provides fine rice to white ration card holders. He also questioned why BJP-ruled states have not adopted the initiative. Mr. Sathyam commended Mr. Reddy’s efforts in revamping the education system, including the release of guidelines for appointing assistant professors in 12 universities. Additionally, he highlighted Mr. Reddy’s visit to a poor family’s home in Sarapaka near Bhadrachalam, where he shared a meal of fine rice, contrasting it with the alleged indifference of former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao. Mr. Sathyam also noted Mr. Reddy’s visit to the Bhadrachalam Temple as a sign of his devotion, contrasting it with KCR’s approach of sending silk clothes to the temple through his grandson.

Karnataka Government to Regularise Pourakarmikas’ Services on May 1, 2024

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Monday that the Karnataka government will regularise the services of pourakarmikas (municipal workers) on May 1, 2024, coinciding with International Workers’ Day. Currently, thousands of pourakarmikas are employed on an outsourced basis in urban local bodies, including city corporations, and have been demanding regularisation. Speaking at the 25th anniversary celebrations of the pourakarmikas’ union, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of their work, citing the principle of 'Work is worship' advocated by the 12th-century social reformer Basaveshwara. He highlighted the government’s responsibility to address their demands, noting the decline in people joining the profession. Siddaramaiah also announced the regularisation of contract-based drivers and the provision of cashless health cards for pourakarmikas. Additionally, he mentioned that the monthly salaries of civic workers have been increased from ₹7,000 to ₹17,000, and the government organizes annual foreign tours for them. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of education for the children of pourakarmikas to unlock their potential in society.

Politics (11)

Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Addresses Kunal Kamra Controversy

On Saturday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed the controversy surrounding comedian Kunal Kamra for the first time. Shinde emphasized that individuals should not misuse their rights in a democratic system. However, he distanced himself from the violent actions by Shiv Sena workers at the studio where Kamra allegedly made offensive remarks against him during a show. Shinde clarified that he does not support such violence, reiterating the importance of maintaining decorum in public discourse.

Naveen Patnaik Addresses BJD’s Split Voting on Waqf Bill Amid Internal Backlash

On April 7, 2025, former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik addressed the issue of split voting by BJD MPs in the Rajya Sabha on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Patnaik reiterated the BJD’s secular principles, citing past actions such as breaking an alliance with the BJP in 2009 over anti-Christian riots. He assured that he would investigate the split voting and take necessary action. The decision to allow MPs to vote according to their conscience caused internal backlash, with BJD Rajya Sabha MP Muzibulla Khan leading a delegation of the Muslim community to Patnaik’s residence to express their displeasure. Khan, who voted against the Bill, criticized the party’s approach, while factionalism within the BJD intensified. Rajya Sabha MP Debasish Samantray indirectly blamed V.K. Pandian, a retired bureaucrat, for the party’s electoral losses and its stance on the Bill. Other BJD leaders defended Pandian, emphasizing that Patnaik remains the final decision-maker. The internal rift within the BJD appears to be widening due to the controversy.

BJP Launches Janakrosha Yatre in Karnataka to Protest Congress Government

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) initiated the Janakrosha Yatre on Monday, April 15, 2024, from Mysuru, Karnataka, to protest against the Congress-led state government. The yatre, which began with a march from the Central Post Office Circle in Mysuru, aims to highlight issues such as the rising prices of essential commodities, alleged appeasement of Muslims, and diversion of funds meant for Dalit development. The BJP plans to cover various parts of the state in four phases, concluding on May 3, 2024. Prominent BJP leaders, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, State President B.Y. Vijayendra, and Leaders of Opposition R. Ashok and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, attended the event. The leaders also visited Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hills before the yatre's launch. Vijayendra emphasized the necessity of the agitation, accusing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of favoring the Muslim community over others and hindering the state's progress.

Telangana Police Accuse Retired IPS Officer of Destroying Evidence in Illegal Phone Tapping Case

The Telangana Police, in a counter affidavit filed in the High Court, alleged that retired IPS officer T. Prabhakar Rao, the primary accused in the telephone tapping case, deliberately cleaned his house and destroyed evidence before leaving for the USA on March 10, 2024. Rao, who had been granted a service extension after retirement, served as Chief of Operations (CoO)—a position not recognized in the IPS cadre—and allegedly misused his authority to issue unlawful interception orders, targeting constitutional authorities, political leaders, journalists, and dissidents. The affidavit, submitted by P. Venkatagiri, Assistant Commissioner of Police, highlighted that Rao’s Special Operations Team (SOT) operated in isolation to aid political leaders, while other SIB wings focused on combating Maoist activities. Crucial intelligence data was lost due to the destruction of servers and hard disks by Rao and his team. The police emphasized the need for Rao’s custodial interrogation to uncover further details of the case, opposing his anticipatory bail petition. A red-corner notice has been issued against Rao, who is currently in the USA.

Karnataka Home Minister Faces Backlash Over Molestation Incident Remarks

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has faced criticism for his remarks on a recent molestation incident in Bengaluru. Responding to media queries, Parameshwara stated that he had instructed the Bengaluru Police Commissioner to strengthen the police beat system, adding that such incidents are inevitable in a large city. His comments sparked outrage, with BJP State president B. Y. Vijayendra accusing the Home Minister of callousness and highlighting the breakdown of law and order in the state. The incident involved a viral CCTV footage showing a man molesting a woman in BTM Layout. The Suddaguntepalya police have registered an FIR and initiated an investigation, although the victim has expressed reluctance to pursue the case.

Siddaramaiah Criticizes BJP’s Janakrosha Yatre as a Move to Save Vijayendra’s Position

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the Opposition BJP in Karnataka, stating that the Janakrosha Yatre was initiated by State BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra to secure his position rather than addressing public concerns. Siddaramaiah highlighted that Vijayendra has lost support from both party workers and the general public. He also accused the BJP of hypocrisy, pointing out that despite falling crude oil prices internationally, the Union government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has increased fuel prices, including a ₹2 hike in excise duty on petrol and diesel and a ₹50 increase in the price of cooking gas cylinders. Siddaramaiah further criticized the BJP for its inability to address injustices faced by Karnataka, such as unfair tax devolution and delays in irrigation project clearances. He labeled the BJP as 'inefficient and anti-people' and referenced internal corruption allegations against Vijayendra, including claims made by expelled former Union Minister Basanagouda R. Patil Yatnal.

Telangana Objects to Andhra Pradesh's Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project at GRMB Meeting

During the 17th meeting of the Godavari River Management Board (GRMB) held in Hyderabad on April 7, Telangana raised serious objections to Andhra Pradesh's proposed Polavaram-Banakacherla link project. Telangana accused Andhra Pradesh of withholding project details and failing to secure necessary clearances from statutory agencies. The Telangana delegation, led by Principal Secretary (Irrigation) Rahul Bojja, demanded that the GRMB share the project details and correspondence received from the Centre, particularly the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Andhra Pradesh countered these allegations, stating that the detailed project report was still under preparation and that the project aimed to utilize floodwaters flowing into the sea. The meeting also discussed the transfer of project management to the GRMB as per the July 2021 gazette notification, with Telangana opposing the move until disputes are resolved. Additionally, the meeting addressed the temporary repairs of the inter-State Peddavagu project in Khammam district, with an estimated cost of ₹15 crore to be shared by both states based on their command area.

Kumaraswamy Accuses Karnataka Govt of Hindering Industrial Development Efforts

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, has accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of obstructing his efforts to bring industrial development to the region. Speaking at the consecration of idols in Handanahalli village, Mandya district, Kumaraswamy stated that despite his persistent attempts to attract industries to Mandya, Ramanagara, and Tumakuru districts, the state government has failed to provide support. He alleged that the Congress government’s actions were driven by “political jealousy,” which has hindered his initiatives. Kumaraswamy highlighted the case of Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) in Mangaluru, where mining activities ceased due to lack of permissions, leading to a loss of 2,000 jobs. He mentioned approving a ₹1,700 crore financial proposal to revive KIOCL, but claimed the state government blocked it. In contrast, he praised the Andhra Pradesh government for its support in reviving the Vizag Steel Plant. Kumaraswamy lamented that political interference was stalling development in Karnataka, depriving youth of employment opportunities. He vowed to continue working for the people of Mandya, who elected him as their MP. The event was attended by seers of Adichunchanagiri Mutt and other dignitaries.

TDP MLA Vijayachandra Directs Officials to Resolve Grievances Within a Week

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLA Bonela Vijayachandra has directed officials to resolve public grievances within a week to prevent petitioners from repeatedly visiting ward and village secretariats. Speaking to the media on Monday, Mr. Vijayachandra emphasized issues faced by Scheduled Castes and tribal communities, including land disputes, certificates, new ration cards, and pensions. He stated that resolving these issues would honor the legacy of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, whose birth anniversary is celebrated on April 14. The MLA has been organizing village-level meetings in the Parvatipuram constituency to bring petitioners and officials together for quicker resolutions. In one instance, officials in Gangada village of Balijipeta mandal, Parvatipuram-Manyam district, assured to address water and road repair issues within a week. Mr. Vijayachandra cited Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s emphasis on timely action during the ‘Rachabanda’ program as inspiration for his efforts.

CPI(M) Leader M.A. Baby Defends Kerala CM’s Daughter in SFIO ‘Illegal Payment’ Case

M.A. Baby, the newly elected general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], has strongly defended T. Veena, the daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in an 'illegal payment' scandal. The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) has named Veena in the case, which involves allegations of receiving ₹2.70 crore from a private mining company without providing any services. Baby asserted that the case was fabricated to target Vijayan and the CPI(M), claiming that Veena had done nothing wrong. He criticized the Central agencies for their role in the investigation and questioned the alleged illegal benefits received by the mining company. The Opposition has demanded Vijayan’s resignation following the reports, but neither he nor Veena has publicly responded to the allegations.

TDB Warns of Strict Action Over RSS Song Controversy at Kollam Temple

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), responsible for managing the majority of temples in Kerala's Travancore region, issued a stern warning on Monday against temple advisory committees that engage in activities likely to incite religious enmity. This comes in response to an incident at the TDB-managed Kottukkal temple in Kollam district, where the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) anthem was reportedly sung during a musical concert on Sunday. Additionally, there were allegations of RSS flags being displayed on the temple premises. TDB President P.S. Prashant emphasized that such actions, driven by political interests, would not be tolerated and that strict measures would be taken against the temple’s advisory committee. The Kadakkal police have received a complaint regarding the incident, though no formal case has been registered yet. This controversy follows a similar incident in the same area where Communist Party of India (Marxist) revolutionary songs were sung during a temple festival.

Festivals (2)

Thousands Attend ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ Ceremony in Tirupati

The celestial wedding ceremony of ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ was held at the Sri Kodandarama Swamy temple in Tirupati on Monday evening, attracting thousands of devotees. This event follows the annual Brahmotsavams and is part of a series of three significant rituals performed at the temple: ‘Sri Rama Navami’ (celebrating Lord Rama’s birth), ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ (the divine wedding of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita), and ‘Sri Rama Pattabhishekam’ (the coronation ceremony). The ‘Muthyala Thalambralu’ (pearls) were carried in a grand procession on an elephant from the TTD’s administrative building to the temple. The procession passed through Theertha Katta street, Gandhi Road, Govindaraja Swamy South Mada street, and Chinna Bazar before reaching the temple. The pearls were formally handed over to the temple’s chief priest, Anandakumar Deekshitulu, for use in the wedding ceremony.

Grand ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ Celebration at Vontimitta Temple on April 11

The Andhra Pradesh government is organizing a grand celebration of ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ at the Sri Kodandarama temple in Vontimitta on April 11, 2023, with an estimated 80,000 devotees expected to attend. Minister for Endowments Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, along with other ministers and officials, visited the temple to oversee the preparations. Adequate parking facilities are being arranged for buses from Rajampeta and Kadapa, and local buses will be deployed to transport devotees to the venue, ‘Kalyana Vedika’. The event will feature 121 galleries to accommodate 12 categories of visitors, and 47,770 food packets will be prepared for participants. Security measures include 150 CCTV cameras, drone surveillance, and the deployment of ‘Srivari Sevaks’ (volunteers) to manage the crowd and distribute ‘Prasadam’. District Collector Sridhar Cherukuri emphasized the cleanliness arrangements, including drinking water kiosks and temporary toilets, while police and TTD officials ensured comprehensive security measures.

Defence (1)

ED Attaches ₹1.22 Crore Assets of Dubai-Based Drug Trafficker Linked to Khalistan Liberation Force

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached assets worth ₹1.22 crore belonging to Jasmeet Hakimzada, an international drug trafficker based in Dubai. Hakimzada is wanted by the United States and is closely associated with the proscribed terror outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF). He has been designated as a 'Significant Foreign Narcotics Trafficker' under the U.S. Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act and is listed as a Specially Designated National by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The ED's investigation is based on an FIR registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Hakimzada is accused of operating a narco-terror network in India, routing proceeds of crime generated through drug trafficking to Dubai via 'hawala' channels with the help of money changers in Amritsar. During a search operation on August 27, 2024, the ED traced secret bank lockers in Delhi containing 1.06 kg of unaccounted gold and 370g of diamond jewellery, which were seized. The ED also provisionally attached properties in Gurugram, Haryana, purchased with funds generated from drug trafficking.

📜 One-Line Summary of Today's News

A private company purchased the fancy vehicle registration number KL-07 DG 0007 for ₹45.99 lakh in an Ernakulam RTO auction, marking the highest price ever fetched for a fancy number in Kerala.
An endangered Pallas’s fish eagle tagged in Mongolia has been migrating to Kaziranga National Park annually since 2020 for breeding, highlighting the park’s significance in global bird migration.
A.P. Industries Minister T.G. Bharath lauded the Indian Red Cross Society for its services and distributed wheelchairs to 38 physically challenged individuals on World Health Day.
Karumanchi Prasad’s ₹10 crore donation for the Kommamuru Lift Irrigation Project exemplifies the success of Andhra Pradesh’s P4 policy in fostering public-private partnerships for poverty elimination.
Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) has initiated the 'Singareni Neeti Binduvu — Jala Sindhuvu' program to construct 50 mini-tanks for groundwater conservation and clean drinking water supply.
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde condemned the misuse of democratic rights in the Kunal Kamra controversy but opposed the violence by Shiv Sena workers.
The ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ ceremony was celebrated at Sri Kodandarama Swamy temple in Tirupati, drawing thousands of devotees as part of a series of traditional rituals.
Naveen Patnaik pledges to investigate BJD MPs’ split voting on the Waqf Bill, sparking internal discord and factionalism within the party.
HYDRAA's Prajavani program received 57 complaints, mainly about lake and land encroachments, with plans to use a Lake Enumeration app for FTL demarcation.
The BJP commenced the Janakrosha Yatre in Karnataka to protest against the Congress government over rising prices and alleged appeasement policies.
The DSEL has warned of criminal action against teachers who use students to clean school toilets, citing insufficient government grants and labor shortages as underlying issues.
Retired IPS officer T. Prabhakar Rao, accused of illegal phone tapping, allegedly destroyed evidence before fleeing to the USA, prompting Telangana Police to seek his custodial interrogation.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara's remarks on a molestation incident in Bengaluru drew criticism, with BJP accusing him of neglecting women's safety and law and order.
The ED attached ₹1.22 crore assets of Jasmeet Hakimzada, a Dubai-based drug trafficker linked to the Khalistan Liberation Force, following an NIA FIR under anti-terror and narcotics laws.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah accuses BJP’s Janakrosha Yatre of being a ploy to secure State BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra’s position amid internal dissent and public criticism.
Telangana raised objections to Andhra Pradesh's Polavaram-Banakacherla link project at the GRMB meeting, citing lack of clearances and transparency, while Andhra Pradesh defended its plans to utilize floodwaters.
Congress MLA Medipally Sathyam lauded Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s fine rice distribution scheme while accusing BRS of a smear campaign against it.
Telangana reported a 4.9 percent drop in crime rate and a significant rise in detection rates to 76 percent in 2024, as highlighted during the Half-Yearly Crime Review meeting.
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy accused the Karnataka government of obstructing industrial development initiatives, citing political jealousy and lack of support.
The Andhra Pradesh government is organizing a large-scale ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ event at Sri Kodandarama temple in Vontimitta on April 11, 2023, with extensive arrangements for devotees and security.
TDP MLA Bonela Vijayachandra has instructed officials to address public grievances within a week, particularly focusing on issues faced by Scheduled Castes and tribal communities.
CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby defended Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter T. Veena, accused in an SFIOillegal payment’ case, calling it a fabricated attack on the CPI(M) and Vijayan.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the regularisation of pourakarmikas’ services on May 1, 2024, along with other welfare measures like cashless health cards and salary hikes.
The Tamil Nadu government has formed a technical committee to investigate and address pollution concerns in the Bhavani river caused by a textile processing unit in Erode district.
The Travancore Devaswom Board has warned of stringent action against temple advisory committees following the rendition of an RSS anthem at a Kerala temple, citing concerns over communal discord.

🎯 MCQs with Explanations

What program inspired Bonela Vijayachandra’s village-level meetings?
Swachh Bharat
Rachabanda
Make in India
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Explanation: Bonela Vijayachandra cited Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s ‘Rachabanda’ program as inspiration for his village-level meetings.
What is the primary objective of the \'Singareni Neeti Binduvu — Jala Sindhuvu\' program?
To increase coal production
To improve groundwater table and provide clean drinking water
To expand mining areas
To reduce electricity consumption
Explanation: The program focuses on water conservation and ensuring clean drinking water for local communities.
What was the proposed financial support for Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL)?
₹1,000 crore
₹1,700 crore
₹2,000 crore
₹2,500 crore
Explanation: H.D. Kumaraswamy approved a ₹1,700 crore financial proposal to revive KIOCL.
Which Bill led to split voting among BJD MPs in the Rajya Sabha in 2025?
Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
Citizenship Amendment Bill
Farmers’ Protection Bill
Right to Information Bill
Explanation: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was the legislation that caused split voting among BJD MPs in the Rajya Sabha.
Under which U.S. Act was Jasmeet Hakimzada designated as a \'Significant Foreign Narcotics Trafficker\'?
Patriot Act
Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act
Controlled Substances Act
Anti-Terrorism Act
Explanation: Jasmeet Hakimzada was designated as a \'Significant Foreign Narcotics Trafficker\' under the U.S. Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act.
What position did T. Prabhakar Rao hold after his retirement, which is not recognized in the IPS cadre?
IGP
Assistant Commissioner of Police
Chief of Operations (CoO)
Special Intelligence Branch Head
Explanation: T. Prabhakar Rao was appointed as Chief of Operations (CoO) post-retirement, a position not recognized in the IPS cadre.
Who is the retired IPS officer accused in the telephone tapping case in Telangana?
P. Venkatagiri
T. Prabhakar Rao
A sitting High Court judge
A senior bureaucrat
Explanation: T. Prabhakar Rao is the retired IPS officer accused in the telephone tapping case.
Where was the ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ ceremony held?
Sri Venkateswara Temple
Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple
Meenakshi Temple
Jagannath Temple
Explanation: The ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’ ceremony took place at Sri Kodandarama Swamy temple in Tirupati.
Which organization manages the majority of temples in the Travancore region of Kerala?
Kerala Devaswom Board
Travancore Devaswom Board
Malabar Devaswom Board
Cochin Devaswom Board
Explanation: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) is responsible for managing the majority of temples in the Travancore region of Kerala.
What was the main issue at the Kottukkal temple in Kollam district?
Display of religious flags
Rendition of an RSS anthem
Political rally
Construction dispute
Explanation: The main issue was the rendition of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) anthem during a musical concert at the temple.
Which agency has named T. Veena in the \'illegal payment\' scandal?
CBI
ED
SFIO
NIA
Explanation: The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) named T. Veena in the case.
What is the primary objective of the Kommamuru Lift Irrigation Project?
To provide drinking water to urban areas
To stabilize irrigation in tail-end lands
To generate hydroelectric power
To promote tourism in Guntur district
Explanation: The project aims to address irrigation challenges in tail-end lands of the Kommamuru Canal.
What action has the DSEL threatened against teachers who use students to clean toilets?
Suspension
Criminal cases
Fines
Transfer
Explanation: The DSEL has warned that criminal cases will be registered against teachers who involve students in cleaning school toilets.
Which scheme has been praised by Congress MLA Medipally Sathyam?
Midday Meal Scheme
Fine Rice Distribution Scheme
National Food Security Act
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
Explanation: The Fine Rice Distribution Scheme (Sanna Biyyam) provides fine rice to white ration card holders.
Which Union Ministry is H.D. Kumaraswamy associated with?
Ministry of Commerce
Ministry of Heavy Industries and Steel
Ministry of Railways
Ministry of Agriculture
Explanation: H.D. Kumaraswamy is the Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel.

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