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Tag: india

  • CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta Reviews NRLM Progress, Pulls Up Poor-Performing Blocks; Directs Timely Supply of Tiranga Flags Through SHGs

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich: In a bid to accelerate the implementation of rural livelihood initiatives and strengthen women-led economic empowerment, Chief Development Officer (CDO) Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta chaired a district-level review meeting under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) at the Vikas Bhawan auditorium on Tuesday.

    The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioner (Self Employment), all Block Development Officers (BDOs), District Mission Managers, Assistant Development Officers (Rural Development), Block Mission Managers, Computer Operators and other officials associated with the National Rural Livelihood Mission.

    During the meeting, CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta conducted an extensive review of the district’s performance on key components of the mission, including the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), SHG profiling, Vidyut Sakhi activation, Revolving Fund (RF), Community Investment Fund (CIF) demand generation, and bank credit linkage.

    Reviewing the progress made up to July 2026, the CDO noted that against the annual target of 5,639 Self-Help Groups, only 1,092 SHGs had been formed, indicating the need for a significant improvement in the pace of implementation. He stressed that all departments and field-level officials must work in close coordination to achieve the remaining targets within the stipulated time frame.

    Expressing concern over the unsatisfactory performance of Mahsi, Payagpur, Huzoorpur, Chittaura and Shivpur development blocks, which recorded the lowest progress in the district, the CDO directed the Deputy Commissioner (Self Employment) to seek explanations from the concerned Block Development Officers, Assistant Development Officers (RD) and Block Mission Managers. He emphasised accountability and instructed officials to immediately intensify efforts to improve their performance.

    Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta also directed all development blocks to expedite SHG profiling, strengthen the implementation of the Vidyut Sakhi programme, increase the demand for Revolving Fund (RF) and Community Investment Fund (CIF), and enhance bank credit linkage so that women associated with Self-Help Groups receive timely financial support and livelihood opportunities.

    The CDO underlined that the success of the National Rural Livelihood Mission depends on effective grassroots implementation and regular monitoring. He urged officials to maintain continuous engagement with Self-Help Groups and ensure that eligible beneficiaries are linked with government schemes without delay.

    At the conclusion of the meeting, the Chief Development Officer reviewed the government’s target for the manufacture of Tiranga (National Flag) by Self-Help Groups ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. He instructed officials to motivate SHG women to undertake large-scale flag production and ensure that every Gram Panchayat receives the required Tiranga flags by August 12, 2026, enabling timely distribution before Independence Day.

  • 🕉️ Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Begins: Pilgrims Depart from Bahraich for Nepal Amid Traditional Farewell

    Bahraich, July 3: A spiritually charged atmosphere prevailed at Bliss Resort in Bahraich on Thursday as a group of devotees embarking on the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra set off for Nepal after receiving a warm traditional send-off. The pilgrims were welcomed with tilak, flower garlands, Vedic chants, and prayers, seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings for a safe and successful pilgrimage.

    The yatra group comprises devotees from Mumbai (Maharashtra), Meerut and Khatauli (Muzaffarnagar) in Uttar Pradesh, and Rishikesh (Uttarakhand). Following their scheduled itinerary, the pilgrims departed for Nepalgunj, from where they will continue their journey towards the revered Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash.

    Welcoming the pilgrims, Manish Malhotra, Proprietor of Bliss Resort, described the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as much more than a religious expedition. “It is a unique confluence of faith, devotion, and spiritual awakening. It is our privilege to serve the devotees and bid them farewell with heartfelt prayers for a blessed journey,” he said.

    Yatra Coordinator Mukesh Kumar Bansal said that comprehensive arrangements had been made well in advance to ensure the pilgrims’ comfort and safety. “Our mission is to help every devotee reach the sacred abode of Lord Shiva through a well-organized and secure pilgrimage. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is truly a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience,” he remarked.

    Pilgrims Share Their Spiritual Aspirations

    Expressing his excitement, Alok Kumar Agarwal from Mumbai said his lifelong dream of visiting Kailash Mansarovar was finally coming true. “My entire family is thrilled. Receiving the opportunity to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings is nothing short of divine grace,” he said.

    Kamal Nayan Gohal from Meerut described the pilgrimage as a journey that tests the body, mind, and soul while offering immense spiritual energy. He said he had undertaken the yatra with complete devotion to Lord Bholenath.

    For fellow Mumbai pilgrim Sanjay Vasantrao Deshmukh, witnessing the majestic Mount Kailash and the holy Mansarovar Lake is the ultimate aspiration of every Shiva devotee. He expressed confidence that the pilgrimage would become the most memorable spiritual experience of his life.

    Young pilgrim Pradhnya Deshmukh shared that she had heard stories of Kailash Mansarovar since childhood and felt deeply inspired to finally visit the sacred destination. She emphasized the importance of the younger generation remaining connected to India’s spiritual traditions, culture, and heritage.

    Seema Agarwal, also from Mumbai, said the pilgrimage represented more than a visit to a holy place. “For me, this journey is a path to inner peace and complete surrender to the Almighty. Being part of this sacred yatra is an unforgettable blessing,” she said.

    The pilgrimage group also includes Arvind Kumar Gupta, Pushpa Deshmukh, Ganesh Kumar Sahu, Rakesh Kumar, Anjana Saxena, Neelu Verma, Naveen Kumar Bhardwaj, Uma Devi, Praveen Gupta, Chandramohan Sharma, Pradeep Kumar, Keshav Mohan Bhardwaj, Sabita Panigrahi, and several other devotees.

    According to the itinerary, the pilgrims will travel through Nepal beyond Nepalgunj to reach the holy Mansarovar Lake, where they will perform religious rituals and prayers before undertaking the sacred parikrama of Mount Kailash, one of Hinduism’s most revered spiritual journeys.

    The management of Bliss Resort concluded the farewell ceremony by extending heartfelt wishes for a safe, successful, and spiritually enriching pilgrimage to all members of the yatra.

  • Guru Arjan Dev’s Sacrifice Showed the Path of Protecting Humanity and Religious Freedom: Tarvinder Singh Marwah

    📍 Martyrdom Day Observed with Devotion at Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha, Bahraich

    🌹 Special Tribute Paid to Late Nand Kanwal Ji

    Bahraich, June 19: The martyrdom day of the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, was observed with deep reverence, devotion, and selfless service at Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha near Peepal Chauraha in Bahraich on Thursday. The event also featured a heartfelt tribute meeting in memory of Late Nand Kanwal Ji, mother of US-based social worker Sardar Princi Singh.

    🗣️ Addressing the congregation as the chief guest, Tarvinder Singh Marwah, BJP MLA from Delhi’s Jangpura Assembly constituency and Chairman of the Delhi Government’s Minority Welfare Committee, said that the sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus for humanity, justice, and religious freedom are unparalleled in Indian history.

    💬 “Guru Arjan Dev Ji endured unimaginable torture and made the supreme sacrifice to uphold truth and righteousness. His martyrdom continues to inspire generations to stand firmly for faith, justice, and human values,” Marwah said.

    ⚖️ Referring to the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, he noted that the Sikh Guru laid down his life to protect religious freedom and human rights. Marwah also highlighted the teachings and extensive journeys of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, emphasizing Sikhism’s enduring message of equality, compassion, and service to mankind.

    🌹 Remembering Late Nand Kanwal Ji, Marwah remarked that in today’s fast-paced world, remaining connected to one’s roots and community is becoming increasingly rare. He praised Sardar Princi Singh for choosing to observe his mother’s death anniversary in the very city and among the people with whom she had spent her life, despite residing abroad.

    💬 “This is an inspiring example of deep attachment to one’s culture, family, and society,” he said.

    🙏 Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha President Mandeep Singh Walia said that Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom teaches the values of truth, patience, and selfless service. Recalling the contributions of Late Nand Kanwal Ji, he said her services in the Gurdwara’s community kitchen (Langar) would always be remembered.

    🍲 “Whenever a Langar was organized, she would bring homemade pickle and personally serve the congregation. Her absence is being deeply felt today,” Walia said emotionally.

    🎶 The spiritual atmosphere was further enriched by a soulful Shabad Kirtan presented by Ragi Jatha Bhai Satveer Singh from Lucknow. Many devotees were moved to tears while listening to the narration of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom and sacrifice.

    👥 Among those present on the occasion were Municipal Chairman Representative Shyamkaran Tekriwal, Sardar Princi Singh, Manoj Gupta, Manish Malhotra, Adarsh Mishra, Hemant Mishra, Kuldeep Singh, and a large number of devotees and distinguished citizens.

    ✨ The event concluded with prayers for universal peace, communal harmony, and the welfare of humanity, reflecting the timeless teachings of the Sikh Gurus.

  • CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta Chairs Farmers’ Day Programme in Bahraich

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, May 29: A district-level ‘Kisan Diwas’ (Farmers’ Day) programme was organized at the Vikas Bhawan auditorium on Thursday under the chairmanship of Chief Development Officer (CDO) Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta. During the meeting, farmers raised several issues related to crop procurement, pending payments, seeds, and agriculture-related services.

    Addressing officials from the Agriculture and Allied Departments, the CDO directed them to ensure the prompt and quality resolution of all grievances received during the programme. He encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices to increase their income and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. Assuring farmers of administrative support, he said any farmer could directly approach his office with complaints, which would be resolved on priority.

    During the meeting, progressive farmers Hari Sharan Singh and Lalata Prasad Gupta demanded the establishment of maize procurement centres in Bahraich district, stating that maize production had been exceptionally high during the recent Rabi season.Farmers’ Raise Maize Procurement, Wheat Payment Issues at Kisan Diwas in Bahraich

    Farmer Anil Kumar Mishra from Nawabganj complained that despite selling his wheat crop over a month ago, he had not yet received payment for the produce. Another farmer, Lalata Prasad Gupta, sought clarification from Forest Department officials regarding tree felling regulations.

    Responding to the query, the Forest Department representative informed the gathering that 26 species of trees, including mango trees, have been placed under the restricted category and cannot be cut without prior permission. However, farmers or individuals requiring the felling of such trees may obtain permission from the Forest Department through the prescribed process.

    Dr. C.P.N. Gautam, Senior Scientist and Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), advised farmers to carefully select quality seeds to ensure better crop productivity during the upcoming Kharif season. KVK scientist Dr. Nandan Singh urged farmers to reduce excessive use of DAP and Urea fertilizers, warning that overuse of chemical fertilizers is adversely affecting soil fertility.

    Deputy Director of Agriculture Vinay Kumar Verma informed the gathering that a Millet Processing Unit would soon be established in Bahraich district. He said the facility would greatly benefit local millet growers by enabling easy processing of their produce within the district itself.

    He also appealed to farmers to get their Farmer Registries prepared at the earliest, stating that the government is giving top priority to the registry process. Farmers were also requested to motivate fellow farmers to complete their registrations.

    District Agriculture Officer Subedar Yadav informed farmers that those interested in obtaining mini-kits of millets and other seeds should register through the ‘Darshan-1’ portal. He further stated that Dhaincha (Sesbania) seeds and other Kharif season seeds are available at government agricultural seed stores across the district at a 50 percent subsidy.

    He added that the government has ensured the timely supply of Dhaincha seeds this season so that farmers can easily avail themselves of the subsidized seeds for green manuring and soil improvement purposes.

  • CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta Chairs Farmers’ Day Programme in Bahraich

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, May 29: A district-level ‘Kisan Diwas’ (Farmers’ Day) programme was organized at the Vikas Bhawan auditorium on Thursday under the chairmanship of Chief Development Officer (CDO) Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta. During the meeting, farmers raised several issues related to crop procurement, pending payments, seeds, and agriculture-related services.

    Addressing officials from the Agriculture and Allied Departments, the CDO directed them to ensure the prompt and quality resolution of all grievances received during the programme. He encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices to increase their income and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. Assuring farmers of administrative support, he said any farmer could directly approach his office with complaints, which would be resolved on priority.

    During the meeting, progressive farmers Hari Sharan Singh and Lalata Prasad Gupta demanded the establishment of maize procurement centres in Bahraich district, stating that maize production had been exceptionally high during the recent Rabi season.Farmers’ Raise Maize Procurement, Wheat Payment Issues at Kisan Diwas in Bahraich

    Farmer Anil Kumar Mishra from Nawabganj complained that despite selling his wheat crop over a month ago, he had not yet received payment for the produce. Another farmer, Lalata Prasad Gupta, sought clarification from Forest Department officials regarding tree felling regulations.

    Responding to the query, the Forest Department representative informed the gathering that 26 species of trees, including mango trees, have been placed under the restricted category and cannot be cut without prior permission. However, farmers or individuals requiring the felling of such trees may obtain permission from the Forest Department through the prescribed process.

    Dr. C.P.N. Gautam, Senior Scientist and Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), advised farmers to carefully select quality seeds to ensure better crop productivity during the upcoming Kharif season. KVK scientist Dr. Nandan Singh urged farmers to reduce excessive use of DAP and Urea fertilizers, warning that overuse of chemical fertilizers is adversely affecting soil fertility.

    Deputy Director of Agriculture Vinay Kumar Verma informed the gathering that a Millet Processing Unit would soon be established in Bahraich district. He said the facility would greatly benefit local millet growers by enabling easy processing of their produce within the district itself.

    He also appealed to farmers to get their Farmer Registries prepared at the earliest, stating that the government is giving top priority to the registry process. Farmers were also requested to motivate fellow farmers to complete their registrations.

    District Agriculture Officer Subedar Yadav informed farmers that those interested in obtaining mini-kits of millets and other seeds should register through the ‘Darshan-1’ portal. He further stated that Dhaincha (Sesbania) seeds and other Kharif season seeds are available at government agricultural seed stores across the district at a 50 percent subsidy.

    He added that the government has ensured the timely supply of Dhaincha seeds this season so that farmers can easily avail themselves of the subsidized seeds for green manuring and soil improvement purposes.

  • Former Minister Naseemuddin Siddiqui Explores New Political Avenues after quitting Congress

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, January 30

                Former Uttar Pradesh minister and senior leader Naseemuddin Siddiqui, who recently resigned from the Indian National Congress along with several supporters, visited Bahraich today to gauge grassroots support for his future political plans.

                Speaking to media persons during the visit, Siddiqui emphasized that he harbors no personal animosity toward the Congress party. “I hold Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in high regard,” he said, adding that his departure stemmed from differences in working style rather than any grudge.

                The veteran politician, who once served as a cabinet minister in the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) government before joining Congress in 2018, stressed his desire to focus on grassroots work for the underprivileged sections of society. “Politics is not merely about delivering speeches from stages. I want to work at the ground level according to my own style, which differs from the Congress party’s approach,” he explained.

                When questioned about his next move—whether forming a new political party or joining an existing one—Siddiqui said he is actively consulting supporters and people across various regions. “I will take a final decision within the next week,” he stated.

                He categorically ruled out any return to the BSP but expressed support for Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) formula, describing it as a valid and unproblematic strategy for social justice.

                Siddiqui also weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new equity regulations for 2026. Noting that the Supreme Court has stayed their implementation, he remarked, “There must be something wrong with these regulations, which is why the apex court has put them on hold.” Without naming any specific party, he alleged that “communal forces” are behind a broader conspiracy to sow division.

                He accused these forces of a pattern of targeting minorities and marginalized groups: “First, they kill Muslims in mob lynchings, then hoist saffron flags in mosques, and later try to provoke conflict between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to reap political benefits.”

                Referring to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Siddiqui questioned the Prime Minister’s engagement with the state, asking whether he had visited even once amid the prolonged crisis. He further highlighted injustices faced by backward Hindus and Brahmins, pointing out that even the Shankaracharya has not been spared from such treatment. Siddiqui strongly opposed what he described as attempts to use the UGC regulations to create divisions in society and reiterated his stance against any insult to the Shankaracharya.

                The former minister’s visit to Bahraich comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape is heating up ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with several parties repositioning themselves in the wake of recent developments. Siddiqui’s statements indicate a potential realignment in the state’s opposition space as he seeks a platform aligned with his vision of grassroots activism and social equity.

  • Former Minister Naseemuddin Siddiqui Explores New Political Avenues after quitting Congress

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, January 30

                Former Uttar Pradesh minister and senior leader Naseemuddin Siddiqui, who recently resigned from the Indian National Congress along with several supporters, visited Bahraich today to gauge grassroots support for his future political plans.

                Speaking to media persons during the visit, Siddiqui emphasized that he harbors no personal animosity toward the Congress party. “I hold Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in high regard,” he said, adding that his departure stemmed from differences in working style rather than any grudge.

                The veteran politician, who once served as a cabinet minister in the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) government before joining Congress in 2018, stressed his desire to focus on grassroots work for the underprivileged sections of society. “Politics is not merely about delivering speeches from stages. I want to work at the ground level according to my own style, which differs from the Congress party’s approach,” he explained.

                When questioned about his next move—whether forming a new political party or joining an existing one—Siddiqui said he is actively consulting supporters and people across various regions. “I will take a final decision within the next week,” he stated.

                He categorically ruled out any return to the BSP but expressed support for Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) formula, describing it as a valid and unproblematic strategy for social justice.

                Siddiqui also weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new equity regulations for 2026. Noting that the Supreme Court has stayed their implementation, he remarked, “There must be something wrong with these regulations, which is why the apex court has put them on hold.” Without naming any specific party, he alleged that “communal forces” are behind a broader conspiracy to sow division.

                He accused these forces of a pattern of targeting minorities and marginalized groups: “First, they kill Muslims in mob lynchings, then hoist saffron flags in mosques, and later try to provoke conflict between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to reap political benefits.”

                Referring to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Siddiqui questioned the Prime Minister’s engagement with the state, asking whether he had visited even once amid the prolonged crisis. He further highlighted injustices faced by backward Hindus and Brahmins, pointing out that even the Shankaracharya has not been spared from such treatment. Siddiqui strongly opposed what he described as attempts to use the UGC regulations to create divisions in society and reiterated his stance against any insult to the Shankaracharya.

                The former minister’s visit to Bahraich comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape is heating up ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with several parties repositioning themselves in the wake of recent developments. Siddiqui’s statements indicate a potential realignment in the state’s opposition space as he seeks a platform aligned with his vision of grassroots activism and social equity.

  • Security tightened along the Indo-Nepal border ahead of I-Day

    Bahraich: DM, SP and SSB Conduct Joint Patrolling Ahead of Independence Day

    By: Shamikh Siddiqui

    Bahraich, 12 August 2025

    In view of the upcoming Independence Day celebrations and to ensure foolproof security along the Indo-Nepal International Border, District Magistrate Akshay Tripathi, Superintendent of Police Ram Nayan Singh, and Dilip Kumar, Deputy Commandant (Operations), 42 battalion of the SSB Bahraich, carried out a comprehensive security review on Tuesday.

    The day began with a coordination meeting at Rupaidiha, attended by senior officials from the district administration, police, and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). All intelligence inputs and critical aspects related to the security of the international border were thoroughly discussed. The meeting focused on strengthening inter-agency cooperation, assessing the ground situation, and formulating preventive measures to counter any potential threats from anti-national elements.

    Following the meeting, a joint patrolling exercise was conducted under the direct supervision of DM and SP Bahraich, along with the 42 Bn SSB team. The patrol route covered Rupaidiha Market to Border Pillar No. 651/02 via Border Pillar No. 651/11, spanning approximately 2 kilometers along the sensitive Indo-Nepal border. The exercise aimed to enhance familiarity with the area, monitor border activities, and reinforce the presence of security forces in the region.

    During the patrolling, security teams interacted with the local people, urging residents to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities. Awareness was raised regarding the importance of public cooperation in maintaining peace, preventing smuggling, and thwarting the designs of anti-national elements.

    Speaking on the occasion, officials emphasized that the primary objectives of the operation were to instill a sense of security among the border residents, curb illegal cross-border activities, and send a strong deterrent message to potential miscreants ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.

    With this proactive approach, the district administration, police, and SSB reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring safety and peace along Bahraich’s international border.