Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi shared a message urging all voters to participate fully in this “festival of democracy.” He wrote, “In today’s Delhi Assembly elections, votes will be cast for all seats. I urge the voters here to participate in this festival of democracy with full enthusiasm and make sure to cast their valuable vote.”

Modi further extended special wishes to young voters, particularly first-time voters, advising them humorously, “First vote, then refreshments!” The message underscored the significance of each vote, especially for the younger generation stepping into the electoral process for the first time.

With polling underway from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm today, Delhi has 1,56,14,000 registered voters. The electorate includes 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, 1,267 third-gender voters, and 2,39,905 first-time voters. Additionally, 1,09,368 elderly voters aged 85 and above and 79,885 persons with disabilities are also part of the voter list.

The security measures for the election are extensive, with around 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers deployed. This includes 220 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel. These arrangements ensure that the polling process proceeds peacefully and securely.

To ensure inclusivity, 70 polling stations are being run exclusively by women staff, another 70 by persons with disabilities, and 70 more to encourage youth participation. Additionally, voters can track crowd levels in real-time through the “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS” app available on Google Play Store. On-site medical teams and creche facilities for parents with young children are also in place.

Polling stations are color-coded for easy identification, and voters can contact the helpline number (1950) for assistance with finding their designated booths and resolving any election-related queries.

Prime Minister Modi’s appeal was echoed by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who also took to social media, urging voters to “First vote, then refreshments!” He emphasized the importance of casting votes wisely, calling it a critical act in shaping Delhi’s future and strengthening democracy.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) seeks a third consecutive term, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Modi’s leadership, is aiming to regain control of the Delhi Assembly. The BJP has targeted AAP over issues like Yamuna water and corruption, while Congress, through Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has accused AAP of mismanaging Delhi’s infrastructure.

On the eve of voting, Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz also appealed to voters, highlighting voting as both a right and a civic duty. “On the day of voting, February 5th, I urge all voters in Delhi to come out in large numbers and cast their votes. It is our foremost responsibility as citizens to participate in this democratic process,” she said.

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Voting began at 7:00 am and will continue until 6:00 pm, with officials making special arrangements to facilitate a peaceful process. Delhi has 1,56,14,000 registered voters, including 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, and 1,267 third-gender voters. Additionally, there are 2,39,905 first-time voters aged 18-19, 1,09,368 elderly voters aged 85 and above, and 79,885 voters with disabilities.

To support the election, a total of 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers have been deployed. Security is being reinforced by 220 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel.

In an effort to promote inclusivity, 70 polling stations will be managed exclusively by female staff, while another 70 will be operated entirely by persons with disabilities. Additionally, 70 stations have been designated to encourage youth participation. Voters can also track crowd levels in real-time through the “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS” app, available on Google Play Store. Medical teams and creche facilities will be on-site to cater to emergency needs and parents with children.

To further assist voters, polling stations are color-coded for easy identification, and a helpline number (1950) has been set up to resolve any election-related queries.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is striving for a third consecutive term, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is making a strong effort to regain control. The BJP’s campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has targeted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on issues such as Yamuna water pollution and corruption. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have also held rallies, accusing AAP of damaging Delhi’s infrastructure.

On the eve of voting, Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz appealed to all eligible voters, urging them to participate in the democratic process: “I encourage everyone to come out and vote; it is both a right and a responsibility.”

However, the silent period preceding the election was marked by some controversy. The BJP filed a complaint alleging that AAP workers were causing disturbances and could potentially influence voters. A social media video showing an AAP worker holding a weapon was also widely circulated, sparking concerns.

Prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Sandeep Dikshit, were seen casting their votes at various polling stations. Union Minister Hardeep Puri and BJP leader Lakshmi Puri also participated in the voting process.

In a related development, AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi met with the Election Commissioner to discuss concerns over violence and hooliganism during the silent period.

Contested constituencies such as New Delhi, Jangpura, and Kalkaji are drawing significant attention. AAP currently holds more than 60 of the 70 assembly seats and is seeking re-election based on its performance.

The New Delhi seat is set for a high-profile three-way contest between AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, BJP’s Parvesh Verma, and Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit. In Kalkaji, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi (AAP) faces competition from Congress’s Alka Lamba and BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri. Meanwhile, the Jangpura constituency features a battle between AAP’s Manish Sisodia, Congress’s Farhad Suri, and BJP’s Tarvinder Singh Marwah.

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The mock polling started at 6:00 am at multiple locations, including Mayur Vihar Phase 1 in the Patparganj Assembly constituency and Nirman Bhawan in the New Delhi Assembly constituency.

The official voting will take place today from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm for the 70 Assembly constituencies in Delhi. “I urge all Delhi residents to come forward and vote. We have made extensive arrangements at polling stations to make sure the process is comfortable for all voters,” said Delhi Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz.

With 1,56,14,000 registered voters in total, Delhi’s electorate consists of 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, and 1,267 third-gender voters. Additionally, 2,39,905 first-time voters aged 18-19, 1,09,368 senior citizens aged 85 and above, and 79,885 voters with disabilities are part of the electorate.

To ensure a smooth election process, over 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers have been deployed across the city. Security measures include 220 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel, all dedicated to ensuring peaceful polling.

For greater inclusivity, 70 polling stations will be managed entirely by women, while another 70 will be run by persons with disabilities. Additionally, 70 stations have been set up to promote youth participation.

An AI-based Queue Management System app, “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS,” available on the Google Play Store, helps voters monitor real-time crowd levels at polling stations. Emergency medical teams will be available, and creche facilities are offered for parents with young children.

The polling stations will also be color-coded for easy identification, and voters can contact the helpline (1950) for assistance with booth locations and election-related queries.

Hotly contested constituencies include New Delhi, Jangpura, and Kalkaji. The AAP, which currently holds more than 60 seats in the 70-seat Delhi Assembly, seeks re-election based on its performance in previous terms.

The New Delhi seat features a high-profile three-way race between AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, BJP’s Parvesh Verma, and Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit, the son of former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit.

In Kalkaji, incumbent Delhi Chief Minister Atishi (AAP) faces off against Congress’s Alka Lamba and BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri. Meanwhile, Jangpura will see AAP’s Manish Sisodia contesting against Congress’s Farhad Suri and BJP’s Tarvinder Singh Marwah.

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The Gujarat Tableau, titled “From Anartpur to Ektanagar–A Wonderful Confluence of Heritage and Development,” impressed judges and secured a hat trick by winning the highest number of votes in the Popular Choice category, the statement added.

Among 31 tableaux showcased from various states and government departments at the 76th Republic Day Parade, Gujarat’s entry, presented by the Information Department, depicted the state’s blend of modern development and rich heritage, aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s vision.

The event was attended by key officials, including Secretary to the Chief Minister Avantika Singh, K.L. Bachani, Director of Information, Arvind Patel, Additional Director of Information, Jigar Khunt, Deputy Director of Information, and other members from the Information Department.

Earlier in the week, CM Patel had expressed confidence that Gujarat was successfully embodying Prime Minister Modi’s mantra of ‘Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi’ through public participation and leadership in national developments.

Citizens were invited to vote online for their favorite tableau in the ‘Popular Choice’ category during the parade. Since its debut at the 74th Republic Day Parade in 2023, Gujarat has consistently led the Popular Choice category, with the first tableau, “Clean Green Energy-rich Gujarat,” making a strong impact.

Last year, Gujarat’s tableau “Dhordo, World’s Best Tourism Village-UNWTO” secured second place in the Jury’s Choice for Excellence of Tableaus.

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The conclave, taking place from January 28 to 29, will kick off with a grand reception at Bhubaneswar Airport, where PM Modi will be welcomed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. Following the warm welcome, the Prime Minister will head to the event venue at Janata Maidan to officially launch the summit.

The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is designed to position the state as a central player in India’s industrial growth, in alignment with the Purvodaya Vision. The state’s ambition is to emerge as a leading investment hub and industrial powerhouse, benefiting from its rich resources and strategic location.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the inauguration of the Make in Odisha Exhibition, which will showcase the state’s accomplishments in creating a vibrant industrial ecosystem. This exhibition will provide a platform for interaction between industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, focusing on the opportunities for investment and collaboration in Odisha.

The conclave is expected to attract over 7,500 investors from across the globe. It will feature a range of activities including CEOs and Leaders’ Roundtables, sectoral discussions, B2B meetings, and policy dialogues. These sessions will focus on key sectors such as Information Technology (IT), renewable energy, textiles, chemicals, and food processing.

In addition to local participants, 12 countries—Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, Poland, and Cuba among them—have been invited as “Countries of Focus.” These nations will explore potential investment opportunities in Odisha, further enhancing the global outreach of the conclave.

The Odisha government is targeting an impressive Rs 5 lakh crore in investments, with plans to sign 100 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the event. However, Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has emphasized that the focus will not just be on MoUs but on ensuring the effective implementation of projects that can drive sustainable industrial growth.

Through the conclave, Odisha aims to accelerate its journey toward becoming a global industrial hub, working towards its vision of a “Samrudh Odisha” by 2036 and contributing to the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is poised to be a defining moment in the state’s industrial transformation, fostering opportunities for both domestic and international investments.

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In his tweet, Pettit noted: “2025 Maha Kumbh Mela Ganges River pilgrimage from the ISS at night. The largest human gathering in the world is well lit.” The images showcase millions of pilgrims gathered along the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Prayagraj, creating a stunning spectacle visible from space.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela, which has already attracted over 110 million devotees in its first two weeks, underscores the spiritual significance and magnitude of this gathering. The festival, taking place once every 12 years, is expected to continue drawing vast numbers of devotees until its conclusion on February 26, 2025. Pilgrims from around the world travel to the sacred Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the Saraswati rivers (now extinct), to partake in a ritual dip believed to cleanse them of their sins and bring them closer to moksha, or liberation.

The festival occurs during a rare celestial alignment, which amplifies its spiritual importance. For millions of devotees, the Maha Kumbh Mela serves as an essential occasion for collective prayer, purification, and devotion. Despite the chilly winter weather, attendees have braved the cold to immerse themselves in the sacred waters, reaffirming the deep connection between faith and perseverance.

As the event progresses, preparations are underway for the Mauni Amavasya, set for January 29. With an expected 45 crore visitors during this period, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure smooth logistics and safety. The immense turnout during this auspicious time will likely set a new record for one of the largest spiritual gatherings in human history.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, with its rich spiritual, cultural, and historical significance, remains an awe-inspiring testament to human devotion. As millions of people converge in Prayagraj, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and shared faith that transcend all boundaries of language, culture, and tradition.

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Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the decision, highlighting that the UCC would bring uniformity in laws related to personal civil matters, which have often been seen as discriminatory based on various social identities. With the necessary preparations already completed, including the approval of the rules and training of officials, the state government is ready to enforce this legislation.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), CM Dhami emphasized that the UCC’s implementation aligns with the vision of making India a developed, harmonious, and self-reliant nation, as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said, “The UCC will ensure equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens, eliminating discrimination based on caste, religion, or sex.”

This move is in line with the promise made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the 2022 assembly elections. Referring to Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, which encourages the government to work toward a uniform civil code for all citizens, CM Dhami reiterated that the BJP had fulfilled its commitment to the people of Uttarakhand. The article, which forms part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, envisions a uniform civil code as a means to promote social justice and equality.

The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Act, 2024, will apply to all residents of the state, including those residing outside of Uttarakhand, with exceptions for Scheduled Tribes and other protected communities. Notably, the UCC introduces provisions for the creation and cancellation of wills and codicils (supplementary documents) under testamentary succession, offering a streamlined legal framework.

One of the significant changes under the new law is related to marriage regulations. Under the UCC, marriages can only take place between parties who are legally eligible. Both individuals must be mentally capable of giving legal consent, with the man needing to be at least 21 years old and the woman 18 years or older. Additionally, marriages are required to be registered within 60 days of solemnization, ensuring transparency and accountability.

For marriages that took place before March 26, 2010, or outside the state of Uttarakhand, couples who have been living together since that time and meet the legal eligibility criteria are encouraged (though not required) to register their marriage within six months of the law’s implementation. The registration process for marriages will be handled efficiently, with sub-registrars required to make decisions on applications within 15 days.

With Uttarakhand’s pioneering step towards implementing the UCC, the state has set a precedent that could pave the way for other states to follow suit. The move is seen as a landmark achievement in the pursuit of gender equality and social justice in India.

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Establishing New Medical Colleges and ITIs

Among the key announcements, CM Yogi revealed plans to establish three new medical colleges in Hathras, Kasganj, and Baghpat, improving access to quality healthcare education in these regions. Furthermore, he emphasized the expansion of the state’s vocational training infrastructure, with the approval for the establishment of 62 new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). These institutes will play a crucial role in equipping the youth with the skills necessary for employment in various industries.

In addition, five new centres for innovation, invention, and training will be set up across Uttar Pradesh, fostering creativity and technological advancements in the state.

Policy Renewals and Investment Initiatives

The state cabinet also approved the renewal of Uttar Pradesh’s Aerospace and Defence and Employment policies, which have been in place for five years. CM Yogi announced that the state would offer new incentives to attract further investment in these sectors, thereby strengthening the state’s position as an economic hub in India.

Municipal Bonds for Key Cities

In a bid to enhance the development of important urban areas, the UP government will issue municipal corporation bonds for Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Agra. This move follows the successful issuance of bonds for Lucknow and Ghaziabad, which yielded positive results. CM Yogi expressed that these bonds would serve as a vital tool for branding and boosting the development of these cities, in line with the government’s new vision for urban growth.

Prayagraj-Chitrakoot Development Region

A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the creation of the Prayagraj-Chitrakoot Development Region. Inspired by the success of the Lucknow State Capital Region, the new region will aim to foster integrated growth and sustainable development for the areas surrounding Prayagraj and Chitrakoot. CM Yogi stated that this initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will help improve the region’s infrastructure, economy, and overall living standards.

Additionally, plans are underway to develop a similar region in Varanasi in collaboration with the Niti Aayog, further enhancing the state’s development agenda.

Ganga Expressway Expansion

In another key infrastructure development, CM Yogi highlighted the expansion of the Ganga Expressway, which will connect Prayagraj to key locations such as Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Kashi, and Chandauli. The expressway will also link to the Purvanchal Expressway in Ghazipur, ensuring seamless connectivity across several important districts. This initiative is expected to boost trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region.

Opposition’s Criticism

While the cabinet meeting was hailed by many, it faced criticism from the opposition, particularly Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. Yadav condemned the decision to hold the meeting at the Maha Kumbh, calling it politically motivated. He argued that Kumbh and Prayagraj should remain free from political agendas, and that the cabinet meeting was an attempt to gain political mileage.

In response, CM Yogi defended the decision, stating that the meeting was an opportunity to carry out crucial state business in line with the spirit of development and progress, while also acknowledging the cultural and spiritual significance of the location.

As Uttar Pradesh moves forward with these ambitious development projects, the state is poised to see transformative changes in infrastructure, healthcare, and employment opportunities, further solidifying its place as a key player in India’s economic future.

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Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday to express his gratitude towards the Indian Embassy in Japan for their enthusiastic participation in the week-long celebration. In his message, Sarma emphasized that Assam Week was not only an opportunity to celebrate the state’s cultural heritage but also to showcase its growing significance in areas like education, industrial development, and security.

“Indian Embassies are celebrating Assam Week to showcase the State’s rich heritage & our potential to become a leading State in India with concerted efforts in education, industry, security and agriculture. Gratitude to India in Japan for enthusiastically celebrating this week,” the Chief Minister said.

Focus on Key Sectors:

The celebration, which began on Wednesday, featured a special focus on Assam’s promising electronics and semiconductor sectors. The embassy’s efforts to highlight these industries are particularly timely, given the recent developments in Assam’s technological landscape, such as the establishment of Tata’s semiconductor unit in Morigaon.

Today’s celebration shifted its focus to the state’s aerospace and defense sectors, recognizing Assam’s growing importance in these high-tech industries. The Indian Embassy’s celebrations provide a global platform to showcase the diverse opportunities the state offers for international collaborations and investments.

Tata Semiconductor Unit in Morigaon: A Game Changer

One of the standout features of Assam Week is the attention drawn to Assam’s expanding semiconductor industry. In February 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal for Tata’s semiconductor unit to be established in Morigaon, Assam. This high-tech facility, to be developed by Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT), is set to be a major milestone for both Assam and the entire country.

The Morigaon unit will focus on developing advanced semiconductor packaging technologies, including flip-chip and Integrated System in Package (I-SIP) technologies, which are critical for key sectors like automotive (especially electric vehicles), communications, and network infrastructure. These cutting-edge technologies are poised to strengthen India’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain, making it less dependent on foreign suppliers.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The Morigaon semiconductor project, with a massive investment of Rs 27,000 crores, is expected to generate significant socio-economic benefits for Assam and the wider region. The unit will have the capacity to produce up to 48 million semiconductor chips per day, a contribution that will greatly bolster the nation’s technological infrastructure.

The project is also expected to create thousands of job opportunities. Approximately 15,000 direct jobs and an additional 11,000-13,000 indirect jobs will be generated, providing a substantial economic boost to the local community and contributing to Assam’s broader economic growth.

A Bright Future for Assam

With initiatives like ‘Assam Week,’ the Indian Embassy in Japan is playing a crucial role in bridging the gap between Assam and global stakeholders. The state’s growing prominence in high-tech sectors, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and diverse resources, makes it an attractive destination for international investments and collaborations.

As Assam continues to chart its path toward becoming a leading state in India, the successful celebration of ‘Assam Week’ in Japan serves as a testament to the region’s potential to make a global impact in various fields, from agriculture and industry to education, defense, and technology.

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The delegation, invited by the External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, includes representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These international visitors were greeted with warmth and hospitality, with their accommodations arranged at the Tent City in Arail, a special facility developed by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation to host the influx of visitors.

During their visit to the Sangam, many international pilgrims expressed their reverence and joy. Denesh Persaud from Guyana shared his excitement after taking a holy dip in the River Ganges, a long-held dream come true for him. “It’s a dream come true. I always wanted to come here and take a holy dip in the River Ganges. I have fulfilled that wish,” Persaud said. He further encouraged others to join in the experience and feel the spiritual significance of the dip. “I encourage those who are here to come to this event and take a dip in the holy River Ganges,” he added.

Sally El Azab, a participant from the UAE, was equally enthusiastic about the event. Praising the organization and scale of the Kumbh Mela, El Azab remarked, “I am coming from the Middle East to India… It is a wonderful event. This is the largest religious gathering in the world, and here everything is well-organized to another level. The police are there for safety, and the government has arranged it all very well.”

The visit of this diverse international delegation highlights the universal appeal of the Maha Kumbh Mela, with people from around the world coming together to experience this spiritual event. The Kumbh Mela is not just a significant religious occasion for Hindus but has become a global symbol of unity, peace, and devotion.

On the fourth day of the 45-day-long Maha Kumbh, thousands of devotees flocked to the Sangam to take a holy dip. The occasion marked the continuation of the massive congregation, which saw over 6 crore devotees participate, with more than 3.5 crore joining on January 14, the day of Makar Sankranti.

In light of the enormous number of pilgrims, the Prayagraj administration has made significant efforts to ensure the safety and convenience of all attendees. One such initiative is the AI-based computerized Lost and Found Centre, which has helped reunite many lost people and children with their families. According to Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi, the center has been highly successful, with no reported cases where lost individuals have not been reunited with their relatives. “We have received a good response from the computerized Lost and Found Centre,” Chaturvedi said. “If there is a case in which we have not been able to reunite a person with their relatives, then the administration takes them to their home at its own expense.”

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, 2025, will continue until February 26, 2025. The next significant bathing dates for the event are January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and the grand finale on February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

As the Kumbh Mela continues, it remains a beacon of faith, unity, and spirituality, drawing people from across the world to the sacred Sangam in Prayagraj, reaffirming its place as the world’s largest religious gathering.

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