Jammu-Kashmir gears up for grand Independence Day celebration



International Desk, Barta24.com
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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presided over a significant meeting, orchestrating a comprehensive review of the preparations for the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations across the mesmerizing expanse of Jammu Kashmir.

The meeting, a convergence of esteemed administrative and police officials, was a testament to the collective dedication to ensuring a splendid tribute to the nation's 76th year of sovereignty.

Gracing the event were key figures in the administrative landscape, including Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary, and Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, who together exemplified the essence of administrative prowess and unity.

The presence of administrative secretaries, ADGPs, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, and other esteemed officers, both physically and virtually, emphasized the expansive scope and gravity of the occasion.

With an unwavering sense of duty and responsibility, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha embarked on a thorough assessment of the meticulously planned campaigns and events that are poised to grace the journey leading up to the grand Independence Day spectacle.

His resounding call for unity and collaboration echoed through the hallways, emphasizing the need to function as a harmonious entity in orchestrating initiatives like 'Meri Mati Mera Desh,' 'Har Ghar Tiranga,' and the iconic 'Tiranga Yatra' in the vibrant locales of Jammu and Srinagar.

"The spirit of 'Meri Mati Mera Desh' and 'Har Ghar Tiranga' must unite us as we embark on this noble endeavour," remarked the Lieutenant Governor, radiating confidence in the unwavering dedication of the people to be part of this monumental celebration.

A fervent directive followed, as the Lieutenant Governor ardently urged the district administration and various departments to galvanize their efforts and weave a tapestry of activities under the banner of 'Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan'.

This call to action resonated deeply, transcending bureaucratic boundaries and ushering in a wave of commitment that promises to paint the region in the vibrant hues of the tricolour.

In a gesture that underscored the inclusive nature of the festivities, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha beckoned upon the common citizens to actively participate in the commemoration.

With a vision encompassing Public representatives, Youth Clubs, Civil Society, Self Help Groups, NCC Scouts and Guides, Army veterans, ex-servicemen, prominent citizens, and educational institutions, the Lieutenant Governor nurtured a collective spirit that embraced the true essence of unity.

"The celebration of Independence Day is a sacred festival that binds our society together with a thread of oneness and shared emotion," emphasized the Lieutenant Governor, reminding all present that this occasion transcends the realms of mere governance and resonates as the heartbeat of the nation.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the culture department was entrusted with a unique responsibility — to meticulously chronicle the lives of the nation's martyrs, immortalizing their sacrifice in the annals of history.

Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor's vision extended to the majestic illumination of prominent edifices, picturesque tourist spots, and quaint border villages, resonating with the vibrant energy of patriotism. A symphony of activities honouring the eminent personalities who have been the cornerstones of nation-building would further enliven the celebrations.

Beyond the thematic orchestration, the meeting delved into the progress of ongoing developmental endeavours and the unwavering dedication of the district administrations to fulfil the envisioned targets. The room was an embodiment of a shared commitment, a mosaic of leaders dedicated to ushering their region into a future adorned with prosperity and progress. (ANI)

   

20 soldiers were killed in an explosion at an army base in Cambodia



International Desk, Barta24.com
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An ammunition explosion at a military base on Cambodia's western border has killed 20 soldiers. Prime Minister Hun Manet said the explosion happened on Saturday afternoon.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Facebook that the explosion occurred at a military base in Kampong Speu province in western Cambodia.

He said, we are deeply shocked by this. However, the cause of the explosion is not yet known.

Expressing his condolences to the families of the slain soldiers, he said that the funeral expenses of the deceased would be paid.

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Endangered hippos stranded in dry rivers in Botswana amid severe drought



International Desk, Barta24.com , Dhaka
photo: collected

photo: collected

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African countries are suffering from severe drought. A herd of endangered hippos trapped in the mud of a dry reservoir in the drought-stricken African country of Botswana is at risk of dying.

South Africa has been hit by severe drought due to El Nino weather, AFP reported. Crops in the region are under threat, millions of people are starving. Several countries in the region have recently declared national disasters.

Herds of hippos become trapped in dried-up rivers near the vast wetlands of the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana.

Lesego Moseki, spokesman for the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) in Botswana's capital Gaborone, said the river system had dried up and the animals were in a compromised situation.

Botswana is home to the world's largest population of hippos living in the wild. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), there are approximately 2,000 to 4,000 hippos.

Moseki said hippos in Ngamiland (North West District) depend on water flowing through the Okavango Delta system. They are still investigating how many hippos died in the pools.

Hippos have thick but sensitive skin. They need to bathe regularly in water to avoid sunburn and they usually live in humid areas.

Without water they can become aggressive and approach villages. Local authorities have called for the hippos to be relocated to protected areas to avoid conflict with humans.

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern usually associated with global warming, leading to drought in some parts of the world and heavy rainfall in others.

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India has allowed onion export to 6 countries including Bangladesh



International Desk, Barta24.com, Dhaka
Photo: Barta24

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India has approved the export of 99 thousand 150 tons of onions to 6 countries including Bangladesh. Other countries are - United Arab Emirates, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius and Sri Lanka.

This information was given on the website of the Government of India on Saturday (April 27).

It said onion exports were banned to ensure domestic supply due to lower kharif and rabi seasons in the country in 2023-24 compared to the previous year. This increases the demand in the international market. Indian agency National Cooperation Exports Limited (NCEL) exports onions to these countries. They procure onions from internal sources through e-platform at lowest price (L1). Then, on a 100% advance payment basis, the rates are negotiated and supplied to the agencies or government-designated agencies in the destination countries.

NCEL fixes the prices with the buyers taking into consideration the prices of the countries where onion is bought, international and domestic prices. Now the quotas are allocated according to the demand of the countries where onion export is allowed.

Maharashtra is the largest onion producer in India. They are the largest supplier of onions to NCEL for export.

Earlier, Bangladesh had sent a formal letter to the Indian government to allow the export of certain quantities of onion to reduce the price of onion in the country's market during the holy month of Ramadan.

In addition, the country's government has allowed the export of additional 2000 metric tons of white onion. These onions are mainly exported to Middle East and some European countries. Due to the high production cost of white onion, its price is relatively high.

India is the world's largest onion exporter. The country's government had imposed a ban on onion exports till March 31, 2024 in December last year to maintain supply in the domestic market. Later it was extended indefinitely. The new decision to export onions is good news for India's friendly countries.

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We are ashamed to look at the development of Bangladesh: Pakistan PM



International Desk, Barta24.com, Dhaka
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Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif praised the economic progress of Bangladesh and said that they are ashamed to look at the development of Bangladesh.

According to a report by Pakistan-based media Dawn on Thursday (April 25), Shahbaz Sharif said this in a view exchange meeting with business representatives at the Sindh Chief Minister's residence in Karachi on Wednesday (April 24).

He said that before independence, Bangladesh i.e. East Pakistan at that time was considered a burden to the country. But they have made tremendous progress in the growth of industrialization.

Shahbaz Sharif said, I was very young when...we were told that it was a burden on our shoulders. Today you all know where that burden has reached (in terms of economic growth). And now when we look at them, we feel ashamed.

Currently, Bangladesh is ahead of Pakistan in almost all indicators of the socio-economic sector.

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