JHARKHAND

JMM patriarch Shibu Soren, making his first appearance in the electoral campaign, released the party’s manifesto “Adhikar Patra” with the slogan “Ek Hi Naara, Hemant Dobara”. The manifesto, separate from the one released jointly with Congress and RJD, outlines JMM’s stance on key issues like employment, social security, and women’s rights. It promises to increase reservation for OBCs in government jobs to 27%, while maintaining 28% for STs and 12% for SCs, and also proposes 33% reservation for women in government positions. The manifesto includes plans to reduce LPG cylinder prices to Rs 450, increase the Maiya Samman Yojna payout to Rs 2,500 per month, and raise pensions for widows, elderly, and disabled individuals to the same amount. JMM also emphasizes employment, outlining a plan to appoint two lakh youths across various departments, and promises to cancel the previous government’s land bank scheme, issue land titles to the landless, and provide caste and residential certificates within six months of taking office.

Hemant Soren, the outgoing Chief Minister of Jharkhand, announced the disbursement of the fourth installment of the Maiyaan Samman Yojana, a monthly financial assistance program for women aged 18 to 50. He highlighted the scheme’s impact on women’s lives, particularly their ability to avoid high-interest loans from moneylenders. Soren expressed disapproval of the Election Commission’s directive restricting self-help groups from participating in poll awareness activities, emphasizing the women’s desire to actively engage in the electoral process. He concluded by expressing confidence in the women’s support for his party, the JMM, and their determination to ensure his victory in the upcoming elections.

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) released its manifesto, titled ‘Adhikar Patra’, on Monday, outlining its key promises for the upcoming state assembly elections. The manifesto, which carries the slogan “Ek Hi Naara, Hemant Dobara” (One Slogan, Hemant Again), focuses on employment generation, social security, and strengthening reservation policies. JMM reiterates its commitment to increasing reservation for OBCs in government jobs from 14% to 27%, while maintaining 28% for STs and 12% for SCs. The party also promises 33% reservation for women in all government positions. The manifesto includes a detailed plan for appointing two lakh youths across various departments, with the largest chunk allocated to rural development, urban development, health, mining, tourism, and renewable energy. JMM also proposes to establish CM Schools of Excellence at the panchayat level, degree colleges in every block, and medical and engineering colleges in 15 districts. The party further pledges to cancel the land bank scheme, issue land titles to the landless, and provide caste and residential certificates within six months of coming to power. To counter the BJP’s proposed gas cylinder subsidy, JMM promises to reduce the price of LPG cylinders to Rs 450 for needy families and increase the amount given under the Maiya Samman Yojna to Rs 2,500 per month. The party also plans to increase the pension for widows, elderly people, and specially-abled persons to Rs 2,500 per month and ensure health insurance coverage for those in the unorganized sector. JMM emphasizes that its manifesto is a document of “basic minimum rights” for the people of Jharkhand, aiming to fulfill their aspirations for a better future.

Onion prices in Jamshedpur have skyrocketed in recent days, causing distress for consumers, particularly those with limited incomes. The price increase, attributed to disrupted harvests due to heavy rainfall, has seen onions jump from Rs 60-65 per kg to Rs 80 per kg within three days. While retailers anticipate prices to stabilize in the next five to seven weeks with the arrival of new stock, consumers are forced to adjust their consumption or face financial strain. The price hike has also sparked criticism of political parties for failing to address the issue despite their campaigns focusing on essential commodity prices.

The Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (RCHRC) hosted an awareness program on palliative care in oncology, highlighting the importance of dignified and empathetic care for terminally ill cancer patients. The event emphasized the need for accessible palliative care facilities in India, where over 70% of cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages. Dr. Rajendra A Badwe, chief executive of Tata Cancer Care Foundation, stressed the benefits of early palliative care, including reduced patient anxiety and improved quality of life. Dr. Chandra Kishore Shahi, director-in-chief of Health Services, Jharkhand, echoed the need for accessible palliative care facilities in the state, acknowledging the limited access to such services for the majority of the population.

Deepak Birua, a three-time MLA from Chaibasa and the only Ho tribal minister in the previous Jharkhand government, is seeking re-election. He attributes the economic woes of the Kolhan region, particularly the closure of mines and rising unemployment, to the policies of the BJP-led central government. Birua dismisses the impact of Champai Soren’s switch to the BJP on JMM’s support base, claiming that Soren’s recent statements contradict his past actions and are alienating voters. He highlights the JMM government’s welfare schemes and dismisses the BJP’s “infiltration narrative” as an election tactic. Birua criticizes the Centre’s inaction on reopening mines and its alleged withholding of coal mining royalty dues, claiming that the BJP is using pressure tactics to harm the state’s economy. He also blames the Centre for hindering the implementation of the PESA Act and the distribution of Van Pattas. Birua expresses confidence in the JMM’s victory, citing the party’s popular welfare schemes and the public’s dissatisfaction with the BJP’s policies.

The INDIA bloc, comprising the JMM, Congress, RJD, and CPI-ML-L, launched its manifesto for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections, promising a slew of benefits to voters, including 10 lakh jobs, a Rs 15 lakh health insurance cover for families, and subsidized ration and gas cylinders. The manifesto, titled “Ek Vote-Seven Guarantees,” aims to counter the BJP’s promises and highlight the alliance’s commitment to social welfare and economic development. The alliance also pledged to increase the minimum support price (MSP) for farmers, hike reservation for Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and Other Backward Classes, and establish medical and engineering colleges and industrial parks across the state. The manifesto further promises to implement the 1932 Khatiyan-based residents’ policy, link recruitments to it, and secure religious status for the Sarna code of the tribals. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren criticized the BJP for spreading divisive rhetoric and failing to deliver on its promises, while emphasizing the INDIA bloc’s commitment to fulfilling its pledges.

This article highlights key developments in the Indian judicial system, emphasizing the human element and its impact on individuals and society.

Key Points:

• New Appointment in Jharkhand: Manoj Prasad has been appointed as the Registrar General of the Jharkhand High Court, demonstrating the ongoing process of leadership and administration within the judiciary.
• Justice Served: Corruption Case Verdict: A former Tamil Nadu government officer and his wife were sentenced to four years of rigorous imprisonment for corruption, highlighting the judiciary’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and accountability.
• Fighting Financial Crimes: The Enforcement Directorate’s opposition to a discharge plea in a money laundering case involving a former revenue minister and his associates underscores the ongoing battle against financial corruption and its impact on individuals and institutions.
• Expanding the Bench: The appointment of three new additional judges to the Andhra Pradesh High Court signifies the judiciary’s dedication to ensuring access to justice and efficient case management.
• Oath of Service: The administration of the oath to the new judges by the Chief Justice symbolizes the commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fairness, serving as a reminder of the crucial role the judiciary plays in society.
• Human Impact: These developments highlight the human element within the judicial system, demonstrating its impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. From upholding ethical standards to ensuring access to justice, the judiciary plays a vital role in shaping a just and equitable society.

Alka Tiwari’s appointment as the new Chief Secretary of Jharkhand marks a significant milestone in her distinguished career. This article explores the key highlights of her journey, showcasing her commitment to public service and her impactful contributions across various domains.

1. A Dedicated Public Servant:

Alka Tiwari, a 1988 batch IAS officer, has dedicated her career to serving the people of India. Her journey has taken her through various roles, from Deputy Commissioner in Gumla and Lohardaga districts to Secretary in the departments of Commercial Taxes and Forest & Environment.

2. Expertise in Diverse Fields:

Her experience extends beyond administrative roles. Alka Tiwari has served as an advisor in NITI Aayog and additional secretary in the Department of Fertilizers, Chemicals, and Pharmaceuticals, demonstrating her expertise in diverse fields.

3. Championing Education Reform:

Alka Tiwari played a crucial role in developing strategy documents for reforms in India’s higher education regulatory framework. Her vision aimed to create world-class institutions of teaching and research, contributing to the nation’s academic landscape.

4. Turning Around Businesses:

As Chairman-cum-Managing Director of FAGMIL, she successfully reversed the company’s decline in the gypsum trade, transforming it into a profitable entity. This achievement highlights her leadership skills and ability to drive positive change.

5. Securing National Interests:

Alka Tiwari’s engagement with Qatar, Iran, and Russia ensured adequate availability of urea and safeguarded the country’s revenue interests. This demonstrates her commitment to national security and economic stability.

6. Advocate for Tribal Welfare:

Her role as Secretary to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes allowed her to develop expertise on tribal issues. This experience will be invaluable in her new role as Chief Secretary, where she can champion the welfare of Jharkhand’s tribal communities.

Alka Tiwari’s journey exemplifies the dedication and commitment of a public servant who has consistently strived to make a positive impact on society. Her appointment as Chief Secretary of Jharkhand is a testament to her exceptional abilities and her unwavering commitment to serving the people.