News Lime

I compile news, sports, achievements, and entertainment from around the world.

[newslime]

Film Producer Akash Baskaran Under ED Scanner in ₹1,000 Crore TASMAC Scam Probe

Chennai, Tamil Nadu – Prominent film producer Akash Baskaran, known for his association with big-ticket Tamil films, has come under the spotlight as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intensifies its investigation into the ₹1,000 crore TASMAC liquor scam.

On May 16, the ED conducted simultaneous raids at 10 locations across Chennai, including the residences of TASMAC Managing Director Visakan IAS, SNJ Distilleries, several government contractors, and notably, the home and office of Akash Baskaran, who heads Dawn Pictures.

Film Industry in the Crosshairs

Sources within the ED have confirmed that a significant portion of the illicit funds generated through TASMAC operations may have been diverted into the Tamil film industry. Akash Baskaran, who is reportedly linked to Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK party’s first family, is currently producing three major films:

Idli Kadai featuring Dhanush

Paraakshati starring Sivakarthikeyan

Simbu’s 49th film

Investigators believe that these productions may have received funding traced back to laundered proceeds from the TASMAC scam, marking a worrying convergence of political influence, entertainment, and financial irregularities.

Raids Uncover WhatsApp Chats, Real Estate Links

The raids began early Friday at the residence of TASMAC MD Visakan in Manapakkam. During the search, ED officers seized printouts of WhatsApp chats related to liquor procurement, tender disputes, and real estate transactions — key areas now under detailed scrutiny.

ED sources confirmed that they are currently tracing the flow of illicit money, which appears to have been laundered through multiple sectors, including film production, real estate, and infrastructure projects.

Wider Network Under Probe

Apart from Akash Baskaran and TASMAC officials, KS Smart Solutions — a firm that has won major contracts from the Tamil Nadu and Union governments — is also under ED investigation. The company is believed to have received funds tied to the scam, involving multiple government departments such as the Tamil Nadu Police, Aavin, Smart City Projects, and the Directorate of Technical Education.

A number of private individuals linked to the DMK leadership are also being investigated, though their exact roles remain unconfirmed at this stage.

Legal and Political Ramifications

The probe gained momentum after a strongly-worded order by the Madras High Court on April 23, which condemned the Tamil Nadu government’s attempts to obstruct the ED’s investigation. The ED’s case is being pursued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and is built on FIRs filed by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC).

These FIRs allege deep-rooted corruption in TASMAC operations — from manipulation of bar tenders and liquor procurement to large-scale mismatches in bottle supply and staff postings — all described by ED officials as a “well-orchestrated scheme to generate black money.”

[newslime]

Haryana Student Arrested For Spying, Allegedly Shared Key Info With Pakistan

This is the second such arrest this week in Haryana, with a man being arrested in Panipat for allegedly supplying sensitive information to Pakistan.

Chandigarh:

A college student was arrested from Haryana on suspicion of spying and passing on sensitive information to Pakistan, marking the second such arrest from the state this week at a time calm prevails along the India-Pakistan border.

Devendra Singh Dhillon, a 25-year-old student of political science at Patiala's Khalsa College, was arrested from Kaithal on May 12 for uploading photos of pistols and guns on his Facebook account. During questioning, it emerged that he went to Pakistan in November last year through the Kartarpur corridor and was sharing sensitive information with officers of Pakistan's Inter Services Intelligence agency.

The neighbouring country's intelligence officers had allegedly spent a lot of money to indulge Dhillon. Kaithal Police Superintendent Aastha Modi said the first year Masters student also shared images of the Patiala military cantonment with Pakistan's officers.

Read More: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/haryana-student-arrested-for-spying-allegedly-shared-key-info-with-pakistan-8435849

[newslime]

How Alcohol and Gambling Ruined Vijay’s Attempt to Engage with Muslims

Actor Vijay’s attempt to engage with the Muslim community through his Iftar party was marred by the presence of alcoholics and gamblers. This blunder has sparked outrage and complicated his relationship with the community. This article examines how these missteps have damaged his credibility among Muslims and hindered his political aspirations.

The Importance of Proper Representation Vijay’s party was intended to demonstrate his support for Muslims, but the participation of individuals whose behavior contradicted Islamic principles quickly overshadowed his efforts. The event’s management was criticized for failing to ensure that attendees adhered to religious norms.

The Political Fallout Vijay’s political future could be jeopardized by this incident, as it highlights his inability to manage religious affairs effectively. The backlash could affect his appeal to Muslim voters, who are crucial in Tamil Nadu politics.

Rebuilding Trust If TVK Vijay hopes to salvage his image among the Muslim community, he will need to show sincere remorse and make meaningful efforts to restore trust. However, the damage done to his credibility may take time to repair.

Conclusion Vijay’s attempt to engage with Muslims has backfired due to the mismanagement of his Iftar party. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of religious sensitivity in political and public engagements.

[newslime]

NEET 2024 Question Paper analysis by NEET MOCK

The NEET 2024 exam has finished and students who appeared in the exam are now eager to see how they performed. Therefore, in this article, NEET MOCK discusses about the NEET 2024 Question Paper Code T3, T6, their difficulty level and many other things. This resource will help students understand the difficulty level, the exam pattern, and how well they did in the NEET UG Exam 2024.

The NEET 2024 question paper was crafted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and covered all the essential topics that were important to judge the capability of aspirants according to the needs of the healthcare industry. This year, the NEET question paper included questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical application. 

The diversity of the questions aimed to test the student’s comprehensive understanding of medical sciences as outlined by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The structure of the NEET 2024 question paper aimed to identify how well students could integrate and apply knowledge from different areas to solve complex problems. This integration is key for success not only in NEET but also in their future medical courses and careers like MBBS, BDS, BHMS, and many others. Therefore, students who wish to check out the question papers of the NEET exams can do that at NEET MOCK.

NEET Question Paper analysis by NEET MOCK

This NEET 2024 question paper analysis by NEET MOCK is based on the following key points. The key points showcase a clear picture of the NEET 2024 question paper that is very crucial for all the candidates who appeared in the exam or who are going to appear in the next year.

Topic Distribution – Analysing which topics were most emphasized across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology helps candidates identify the areas they need to focus on more intensely.

Question Types – Understanding whether the questions were primarily conceptual, calculation-based, or application-oriented allows students to identify the mistakes they made in the NEET 2024 exam and to tailor their future study strategies accordingly.

Comparative Difficulty – Assessing the difficulty level of questions across different subjects provides insights into which sections might require more rigorous preparation or different approaches.

NEET 2024 question paper analysis also includes reviewing how questions align with the expected curriculum standards set by the National Medical Commission (NMC), ensuring that students are prepared with the most relevant and up-to-date material.

NEET 2024 question paper analysis done by NEET MOCK in this way helps both past candidates and future aspirants to enhance their preparation and approach to tackling the exam effectively.

[newslime]

Students Not Satisfied With CBSE Board Results Can Apply for Verification Starting Today

New Delhi: Students who are not satisfied with their CBSE board results 2024 can apply for verification of marks starting today. This facility will be available for five days, with the deadline to complete the application process set for May 21, 2024. The verification process is scheduled from the fourth day after the declaration of results to the eighth day.

Candidates who apply for verification of marks will receive a photocopy of their evaluated mark sheets. Only those who receive this photocopy will be eligible for re-evaluation. The scanned photocopy of the evaluated answer book will be available from the 19th to the 20th day after the result declaration, with this facility also available for two days. The re-evaluation of answers will be offered from the 24th to the 25th day following the result declaration.

The CBSE board emphasized that all activities are time-bound and can only be accessed online. No requests will be accepted after the last date, nor will offline requests be entertained, to maintain examination safety protocols. The CBSE has informed the schedule in advance to ensure that parents, students, and schools can utilize these facilities as per the issued instructions.

All requests must be submitted online within the specified schedules, along with processing charges. No applications will be accepted after the scheduled date and time, and no offline applications will be considered. Processing charges must be paid online via credit/debit card or net banking. Students must decide in advance whether to request verification for one subject or multiple subjects, as no second opportunity will be provided once applied.

This year, 87.98 percent of students cleared the class 12th boards, while 93.60 percent qualified for class 10 exams.

[newslime]

Trailblazing in Tamil Nadu - The Legacy of Sarvesh Raj IPS

Sarvesh Raj IPS, born on April 17, 1988, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, is a shining example of dedication and leadership in the Indian Police Service (IPS). Armed with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical and fluent in both Tamil and English, Sarvesh Raj embarked on his journey in 2013, quickly earning recognition for his exemplary qualities.

Beginning his service as Assistant Superintendent of Police (DSP) in the Ramanathapuram region, Sarvesh Raj swiftly became known for his strategic approach to addressing challenging issues. His adept management of sensitive cases and deft resolution of tense situations earned him praise from both the community and his peers.

Transitioning to Ambattur, Sarvesh Raj continued to make his mark as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), spearheading innovative initiatives for crime prevention and public safety. Emphasizing community engagement, he tirelessly worked to build trust between law enforcement and the public, a crucial aspect of modern policing.

Sarvesh Raj's resilience and achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring law enforcement professionals, solidifying his reputation as a symbol of integrity and dedication within the IPS. Renowned for his meticulous planning and compassionate approach, he has successfully resolved high-profile criminal cases, including the 2013 Mangadu murder case, showcasing his unwavering commitment to fostering a secure environment.

According to City Police Commissioner A K Viswanathan, the recruitment of young officers like Sarvesh Raj was a deliberate strategy to rejuvenate the force amidst evolving challenges. Their innovative problem-solving approaches, particularly leveraging technology, serve as a blueprint for policing across the state.

Sarvesh Raj's journey exemplifies the ethos driving the new generation of IPS officers, dedicated to upholding justice, integrity, and public safety in service to the nation.

[newslime]

Biography of Shradha Sharma: Inspiring Entrepreneur and Journalist

Shradha Sharma, a prominent figure in the media industry and celebrated entrepreneur, has an inspiring journey that began in a small town in Bihar. Born on July 6, 1983, Shradha’s childhood in Patna instilled in her a deep appreciation for storytelling and the belief that everyone’s story is unique and worth sharing

Early Life:

Shradha pursued her education at St. Stephen’s College in Delhi, where she completed her graduation and masters in History. She further honed her skills in mass media at MICA Ahmedabad, nurturing her passion for communication and storytelling from a young age.

Work Life:

Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Shradha held positions at prominent media organizations. She served as the Brand Advisor of Times of India in 2007 and later transitioned to CNBC TV18 as an assistant vice president. It was during her tenure at CNBC TV18 that Shradha’s vision for YourStory began to take shape.

The Birth of YourStory:

Driven by her passion for untold stories of entrepreneurs, Shradha started blogging about startup stories that often went unnoticed. Fuelled by her desire to showcase the creativity and innovation of entrepreneurs, she transformed her blog into YourStory, a leading platform for entrepreneurial stories. Supported by visionaries like Ratan Tata and Mohandas Pai, YourStory has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and commoners alike.

Achievements:

Shradha’s dedication and vision have earned her numerous accolades, including the NASSCOM Ecosystem Evangelist Award and the Villgro Journalist of the Year Award. Her book, “Cut the Crap and Jargon: Lessons from the Start-up Trenches,” became an Amazon bestseller, further solidifying her influence in the startup ecosystem. Shradha’s commitment to storytelling and entrepreneurship has garnered international recognition, with YourStory expanding its presence into Germany and plans for further global expansion.

Legacy:

With over 72,000 articles, 10 million visitors, and 100 plus employees, YourStory continues to grow under Shradha’s leadership. She remains steadfast in her belief in working with passion and resilience, inspiring young minds to pursue their dreams and share their stories.

Shradha Sharma’s journey exemplifies the power of storytelling and the transformative impact of entrepreneurship, leaving an indelible mark on India’s digital landscape and beyond.

[newslime]

Family Star Box Office Report: Vijay Deverakonda's Film Faces Monday Blues

Hey movie buffs, we've got some fresh updates from the box office! Let's talk about Vijay Deverakonda's latest flick, Family Star, and how it's faring against its competitors.

Monday Dip: It's been a rough ride for Family Star as it faced a crucial test on Monday. Unfortunately, the numbers didn't quite add up in its favor. The romantic family drama, helmed by director Parasuram and starring Vijay Deverakonda and Mrunal Thakur, witnessed a significant dip in its collections. With just Rs 1.42 crore in its kitty on day 4, marking a 54.19% drop from the previous day's earnings, the film is signaling a downturn in its box office journey.

Tough Competition: While Family Star struggled, its competitors like Godzilla vs Kong: The New Empire, Crew, and Aadujeevitham managed to rake in better numbers. Despite being in theaters for a longer duration, these films outperformed Family Star on Monday.

Career Challenges: For Vijay Deverakonda, this downturn adds to the challenges in his career. None of his recent projects have struck gold commercially, and Family Star seems to be following suit. With dwindling box office numbers and critical reviews, it's a tough phase for the actor.

Response and Reaction: In response to the negative online campaigns targeting Vijay Deverakonda and his film, his team has taken action. Filing a complaint against online trolls, they aim to combat the negative impact on the movie's performance.

Final Verdict: Despite the star power, Family Star seems to have missed the mark. With outdated storytelling and lackluster execution, the film struggles to captivate audiences.

As the curtains draw on Family Star's box office run, it's evident that Vijay Deverakonda faces an uphill battle to reclaim his commercial success.

[newslime]

Get Ready for the Political Pulse: Modi's Tamil Nadu Surge & Kejriwal's Legal Battle

As we inch closer to Phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections, the political arena is heating up with fervent campaigning and legal battles. Here's the latest scoop:

Modi's Multi-State Moves: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making waves with his strategic campaign moves. On Tuesday, he kicks off his schedule with an electrifying election rally in Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh, marking his second visit to the state in just three days. But that's not all – Modi's Tamil Nadu tour is also in full swing, emphasizing the critical Coimbatore constituency, which BJP eyes to secure this time. With a roadshow planned in Chennai, Modi aims to rally support for BJP candidates Tamilisai Soundararajan and Vinoj P Selvam in South and Central Chennai constituencies, respectively. His itinerary also includes public meetings in Vellore and Mettupalayam, rallying behind NDA allies' candidates. Coimbatore remains a focal point for Modi, reflecting the significance the BJP attaches to this region.

Legal Showdown: Kejriwal's Bail Plea: Meanwhile, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal finds himself entangled in a legal tussle. The Delhi High Court is set to deliver its verdict on Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam. Currently under judicial custody in Tihar jail, Kejriwal's fate hangs in the balance as the court's decision looms. His challenge extends beyond arrest to contesting the remand in the Enforcement Directorate's custody. The legal battle underscores the high stakes and intense scrutiny surrounding political figures, particularly during election season.

Nationwide Campaign Trail: As Modi and Kejriwal grab headlines, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is making his presence felt in Assam. Addressing a public meeting in Lakhimpur constituency, Shah lends his support to BJP incumbent MP Pradan Baruah, vying for a third consecutive term. The day doesn't end there – Shah gears up for a lively roadshow in Tinsukia town, boosting BJP candidate Sarbananda Sonowal's campaign in the Dibrugarh seat. The electoral landscape is alive with activity as parties vie for voter attention and allegiance.

As the countdown to the Lok Sabha elections continues, the political drama unfolds with each passing day. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the nation braces for a crucial electoral showdown.

[newslime]

Unveiling the Shocking Reality: Over Rs 2 Lakh Crore GST Evasion in FY24

In a surprising turn of events, authorities have uncovered GST evasion amounting to over Rs 2 lakh crore during the fiscal year 2023-24, nearly equivalent to 10% of the total GST collections. Despite a commendable 11.6% increase in gross GST collections from the previous financial year, this staggering revelation underscores the persistent challenges faced in combating tax evasion.

The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI), the enforcement arm under the Ministry of Finance’s Department of Revenue, has identified various sectors where the majority of alleged tax evasion occurred. Among these, sectors such as online gaming and casinos, co-insurance/re-insurance, and secondment have been particularly implicated, with significant sums involved.

The FY24 data reveals a substantial surge in detected cases of duty evasion, totaling around Rs 2,01,931 crore across 6,074 cases—a staggering 99% increase from the previous financial year. Moreover, voluntary payments towards the evasion have also risen, amounting to Rs 26,598 crore, representing approximately 1.3% of total GST collections in FY24.

Wrongful availment of input tax credit (ITC) or fake ITC claims has emerged as a major concern for GST authorities. Special drives have been conducted to counter this menace, resulting in the detection of numerous cases involving fraudulent ITC claims. Notably, the focus has been on dismantling fake input tax credit syndicates and apprehending masterminds behind these schemes, leading to a significant number of arrests.

In addition to domestic tax evasion, investigations have been initiated against offshore online gaming entities that fail to comply with GST laws. The crackdown on tax evasion has been relentless, with authorities issuing a slew of notices to entities across various sectors, including banking, insurance, online gaming, and more.

To strengthen enforcement efforts, GST authorities are leveraging advanced technologies such as Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence to detect evasion. The DGGI has bolstered its cyber forensics infrastructure and established digital forensic laboratories across strategic locations in India.

In a bid to streamline investigations and ensure effective enforcement, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued guidelines outlining standard operating procedures for GST officers. These guidelines aim to expedite investigations, particularly in cases involving major industrial houses or multinational corporations, while maintaining a strict deadline for concluding inquiries.

The revelation of such significant GST evasion underscores the critical importance of robust enforcement measures and technological advancements in combating tax fraud. As authorities continue to intensify their efforts, it remains imperative for businesses to adhere to GST regulations and uphold integrity in tax compliance.

[newslime]

Inside Celebrity Hairstyling: Aalim Hakim Reveals Rs 1 Lakh Minimum Fee

Celebrities like Salman Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Prabhas are known for their impeccable hairstyles, but have you ever wondered how much they spend on their haircuts? Celebrity hairstylist Aalim Hakim, who has styled some of the biggest stars in Bollywood and beyond, recently revealed that his services start at a staggering Rs 1 lakh.

In a candid interview with Brut, Aalim shared insights into his long-standing relationships with his celebrity clients. He mentioned, “Hrithik Roshan’s look in War, Ranbir Kapoor’s look in Animal, Shahid Kapoor’s look in Kabir Singh, Vicky Kaushal’s look in Sam Bahadur, Bobby’s look in Animal, Rajinikanth’s look in Jailer, Prabhas’ look in Baahubali... Almost 98% of the Indian films are styled by me, whether it’s south or north. My fee is very simple, and everybody knows how much I charge. It starts from Rs 1 lakh. That’s the minimum.”

Furthermore, Aalim emphasized the loyalty of stars like Salman Khan, Fardeen Khan, Suniel Shetty, and Ajay Devgn, who have been his clients for over two decades. He expressed gratitude for their continued trust in him, stating, “They have never changed me as their barber. I’m still their hairdresser.”

On the topic of recent buzz-worthy haircuts, Aalim revealed the story behind Virat Kohli’s eyebrow slit, which created quite a stir on social media. Explaining the decision, he said, “Since IPL was coming up, we decided to do something cool and different. Virat always has references like ‘we’ll try this, we’ll try that, next time we’ll try this.’ This time, we decided to do something really cool. We did a slit in his eyebrows.”

With insights into the world of celebrity grooming, Aalim Hakim’s revelations offer a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes world of celebrity hairstyling.

[newslime]

Exploring Congress's Manifesto: Key Highlights and Promises

In a bid to regain voter confidence and address the concerns of the marginalized sections of society, the Congress party recently unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, titled “Nyay Patra.” With a comprehensive 46-page document, the Congress has outlined a series of promises aimed at addressing issues ranging from job creation to social justice and women empowerment. Let’s delve into the key takeaways from this manifesto:

1. Social Justice: The Congress manifesto emphasizes social justice measures, including raising the cap on reservation for SCs, STs, and OBCs, implementing the 10% quota for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and doubling funds for scholarships for marginalized students. It also pledges to address discrimination in educational institutions and promote diversity in employment and education.

2. Unemployment: With a focus on job creation, the Congress promises to enact a Right to Apprenticeship Act, fill vacant government positions, and provide support for start-ups. The party also plans to introduce urban employment programs and enhance social security for gig and unorganized workers.

3. Women Empowerment: Recognizing the importance of women’s welfare, the manifesto proposes cash transfer schemes for women, reservation in Parliament and Assemblies, and job quotas in the central government. Additionally, the Congress aims to implement measures to ensure women’s safety and empowerment.

4. Institutional Overhaul: The Congress manifesto includes promises to strengthen constitutional institutions, protect freedom of expression, and ensure accountability in law enforcement agencies. It vows to review laws related to telecommunications and reform the criminal justice system to uphold individual rights.

5. Other Major Promises: The manifesto pledges to abolish the Agnipath scheme, restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, and expand Article 15 and 16 to prohibit discrimination based on disability or sexual orientation. It also outlines plans for electoral reforms, tax reforms, and judicial reforms.

[newslime]

The Bishop Sacrifice: Vidit Gujrathi's Epic Win Over Hikaru Nakamura

Breaking Down Vidit Gujrathi's Epic Win Against Hikaru Nakamura: The Bishop Sacrifice That Changed Everything

Join us as we dissect the thrilling game between Vidit Gujrathi and Hikaru Nakamura, where Gujrathi's audacious bishop sacrifice ended Nakamura's 47-game unbeaten streak. In a move reminiscent of chess legends, Gujrathi's bishop surged forward, setting the stage for an intense battle on the board.

Explore the strategic brilliance behind Gujrathi's move and Nakamura's critical decision-making process. As Nakamura faced a pivotal choice, Gujrathi's bold sacrifice forced him into a corner, leading to a stunning victory for the Indian grandmaster.

Delve into the post-match analysis, where Gujrathi reflects on the significance of his triumph and shares his hopes for the bishop sacrifice to become his signature move. Experience the excitement of high-stakes chess as Gujrathi outmaneuvers one of the world's top players in a game that will be remembered for years to come.

Discover the chessboard drama unfold, from Gujrathi's calculated maneuvers to Nakamura's desperate attempts to defend his position. As the game reaches its climax, witness Nakamura's acknowledgment of defeat and the lighthearted banter among commentators reflecting on the unforgettable match.

Stay tuned as we unravel the intricacies of this historic game and celebrate Vidit Gujrathi's remarkable victory against the odds.

[newslime]

Prithviraj’s Aadujeevitham Hits Rs 100 Cr Worldwide: Actor Celebrates Massive Success

Join the celebration as Prithviraj Sukumaran's latest blockbuster, Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life), crosses the Rs 100 crore mark at the global box office in just nine days. Directed by Blessy, this survival drama has captivated audiences worldwide, earning Rs 50 crore in India alone. Despite competition from other releases like Crew, Tillu Square, and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, Aadujeevitham continues to soar.

Prithviraj took to social media to express his gratitude, tweeting, "100 Cr and counting at the Global Box Office! Thank you for this unprecedented success!"

Director Blessy commended the hard work of the cast and crew, emphasizing the film's journey from conception to realization over sixteen years. Aadujeevitham, based on Benyamin's bestselling novel, portrays the gripping tale of Najeeb's struggle for survival in the Saudi desert.

With accolades pouring in, Aadujeevitham aims to surpass the records set by Malayalam hits like 2018 and Manjummel Boys, with its powerful narrative resonating globally.

Produced by Visual Romance, Aadujeevitham features a stellar cast including Jimmy Jean-Louis, Amala Paul, and KR Gokul, supported by talented Arab actors. With music by AR Rahman and sound design by Resul Pookutty, this cinematic masterpiece continues to make waves worldwide.

[newslime]

Insights from RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das

In a recent address, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das shared valuable insights on various aspects crucial to India’s economic landscape.

1. Growth Outlook: Das highlighted a positive growth trajectory for the Indian economy, with the National Statistical Office (NSO) forecasting a 7.6% growth in FY24. He emphasized that this sustained growth, averaging 8% over a three-year period, signifies an increase in the country’s potential growth.

2. Financial Stability: Addressing the importance of governance and regulatory compliance, Das stressed that Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and other financial entities must prioritize these factors. Considering their operation with public funds, maintaining quality governance is imperative. He emphasized that ensuring financial stability is a collective responsibility, with the RBI committed to engaging with financial entities.

3. Forex Reserves Management: Das highlighted India’s record-high foreign exchange reserves, reaching $645.6 billion as of March 29. He discussed the impact of geopolitical events such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict, which led to temporary fluctuations in reserves. Emphasizing prudent management, Das assured that India’s forex reserves were utilized judiciously, serving as a robust safeguard during times of economic uncertainty.

Overall, Das’s insights provide valuable perspectives on growth, financial stability, and forex management crucial for India’s economic resilience and prosperity.

[newslime]

M K Stalin's Vision for Tamil Nadu: A Journey Towards Democracy and Social Justice

In the bustling political landscape of Tamil Nadu, amidst the echoes of historical legacies and the clamor for a brighter future, CM M K Stalin stands as a beacon of hope. With a resolute determination and a vision deeply rooted in the principles of democracy and social justice, Stalin charts the course for a new era in Tamil Nadu’s political narrative.

As he stands against the backdrop of his father’s legacy, the late DMK stalwart M Karunanidhi, Stalin exudes confidence, ready to lead Tamil Nadu into what he terms “a second struggle for Independence” in the forthcoming elections. Having already proven his mettle by leading the DMK to sweeping victories in both the Lok Sabha polls of 2019 and the state Assembly elections of 2021, Stalin emerges as the face of hope for the INDIA bloc in Tamil Nadu.

In an exclusive interview with The Indian Express, Stalin articulates his anti-BJP stance, portraying it as a fight against the central government’s hegemony. He emphasizes the critical importance of defending the core values of India: democracy, secularism, and pluralism. With unwavering determination, he positions the DMK and its allies as bulwarks against what he perceives as fascist forces threatening the nation’s democratic fabric.

Stalin acknowledges the uphill battle ahead but expresses confidence in the strength of his team, which includes prominent leaders like Akhilesh Yadav, Arvind Kejriwal, and Uddhav Thackeray. Together, they stand united in their commitment to safeguarding Indian democracy from authoritarian tendencies.

Reflecting on his tenure as CM, Stalin highlights the Dravidian model’s core ethos of “Everything for Everyone.” He underscores his administration’s focus on education, social justice, and skill development, aiming to fulfill the vision of an educated and equitable Tamil Nadu.

Addressing the issue of political corruption, Stalin emphasizes transparency and accountability as fundamental pillars of democracy. He points to the escalating financial demands of elections and the Supreme Court’s scrutiny of the BJP government’s electoral finance practices as indicators of the challenges faced in maintaining integrity in politics.

While the DMK’s influence in national politics is significant, Stalin emphasizes that its goals extend beyond mere ministerial positions. Rooted in the principles of federalism, secularism, and diversity, the DMK has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s political landscape, contributing to alliances and movements aimed at national welfare.

In navigating the evolving political landscape, Stalin emphasizes the importance of ideological commitment, contrasting it with the BJP’s strategy of cultivating larger-than-life personas. He sees a dynamic young leader like Rahul Gandhi as a potential challenger to the manufactured image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Stalin’s success in maintaining a united alliance in Tamil Nadu reflects his leadership style, which prioritizes shared principles over political expediency. He envisions a legacy defined by steadfastness in upholding the values of Dravidianism and unwavering dedication to public service.

Beyond politics, Stalin’s personal interests reflect a multifaceted persona. From his passion for cricket to his dedication to physical fitness and his love for cinema, Stalin embodies a holistic approach to life, grounded in family values and cultural heritage.

As he forges ahead in his journey, Stalin remains steadfast in his commitment to serving the people of Tamil Nadu, guided by the principles of democracy, social justice, and inclusivity. In his vision lies the promise of a brighter future for Tamil Nadu, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and prosper.

[newslime]

Imran Khan Confirms Relationship with Lekha Washington: Dispelling Homewrecker Narrative

In a recent revelation, actor Imran Khan has confirmed his romantic involvement with Lekha Washington, dispelling rumors that painted her as a "homewrecker" in his previous marriage with Avantika Malik. The actor, who has been on a hiatus from acting since 2015's Katti Batti, shared insights into his personal life and addressed misconceptions in a candid interview with Vogue India.

Imran Khan's separation from Avantika Malik in 2019 sparked speculation about his relationship status. However, it wasn't until now that he officially acknowledged his connection with Lekha Washington. Contrary to rumors, Khan clarified that their relationship blossomed a year and a half after his separation from Avantika, during the lockdown period.

Regarding the unfair portrayal of Lekha as a "homewrecker," Imran expressed his frustration with such misogynistic narratives. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging individual agency and criticized the tendency to diminish women's roles in relationships.

Lekha Washington, known for her work as an artist and actor in Telugu films, stands as a respected figure in Mumbai's artistic community. Imran's public acknowledgment of their relationship marks a significant departure from his previous stance of maintaining privacy about his personal life.

While Imran Khan's return to the big screen remains speculative, rumors suggest a potential collaboration with Abbas Tyrewala, his director from the hit film Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na. As the actor steps back into the limelight, his openness about his personal journey adds depth to his public persona.

Imran's decision to address the rumors and misconceptions surrounding his personal life reflects a broader conversation about privacy, agency, and the portrayal of relationships in the public eye. In a society prone to gossip and speculation, his candidness serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting individuals' personal narratives.