Centre Rules Out Special Status For Bihar, Lalu Yadav's Party Takes A Swipe

The Centre has ruled out any plan to give a special category status to Bihar, a core demand by its key ally, the Janata Dal (United), prompting the Rashtriya Janata Dal to take a swipe at JDU leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.  

No special status for Bihar, Lalu reacts

Ramprit Mandal, JDU MP from Bihar's Jhanjharpur, had asked the Finance Ministry if the government has a plan to provide special status to Bihar and other most backward states to promote economic growth and industrialisation.

In a written response, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said "case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out".

"The Special Category Status for plan assistance was granted in the past by the National Development Council (NDC) to some States that were characterized by a number of features necessitating special consideration. These features included (i) hilly and difficult terrain, (ii) low population density and/or sizeable share of tribal population, (iii) strategic location along borders with neighbouring countries, (iv) economic and infrastructural backwardness and (v) non-viable nature of State finances," the reply stated. "Earlier, the request of Bihar for Special Category Status was considered by an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) which submitted its Report on 30th March, 2012. The IMG came to the finding that based on existing NDC criteria, the case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out," it added.

A special status ensures more central support to a backward state to expedite its growth. While the Constitution does not provide for a special status for any state, it was introduced on the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission in 1969. Among the states that have received a special status so far are Jammu and Kashmir (now a Union Territory), Noreastern states and hill states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

A state with a special category status gets more funding support from the Central in the Union government's schemes and several concessions in taxes.

A special status for Bihar has been a longstanding demand of the JDU. With the BJP falling short of a majority in this election and tying up with JDU, TDP and other parties to cobble up the magic figure, the Nitish Kumar-led party was expected to push hard for its core demand. The JDU also raised this demand at an all-party meeting before the budget session.

JDU MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said the demand for a special state status for Bihar has been a priority for the JDU. "Bihar should get the status of a special state, this has been the demand of our party since the beginning. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has held big rallies for this demand. If the government feels that there is a problem in doing this, then we have demanded a special package for Bihar," he said, according to a PTI report.

With the Centre making it clear that it has no plan to grant a special status, Bihar's main Opposition RJD has hit out at the JDU, which is ruling the state in alliance with BJP. "Nitish Kumar and JDU leaders must enjoy the fruits of power at the Centre and continue their drama politics on special status," the RJD said in a post on X.

A source in the government said that the Special Category Status issue was first addressed in the National Development Council meeting in 1969. "During this meeting, the D R Gadgil Committee introduced a formula to allocate Central Assistance for state plans in India. Prior to this, there was no specific formula for fund distribution to States, and grants were given on a scheme basis. The Gadgil Formula, approved by the NDC, prioritized special category States such as Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland, ensuring their needs were addressed first from the pool of Central assistance."

The Special Category status concept was introduced by the 5th Finance Commission in 1969 recognising historical disadvantages of certain regions, the source said.

"Until the 2014-2015 fiscal year, the 11 States with Special Category Status benefited from various advantages and incentives. However, following the dissolution of the Planning Commission and the formation of the NITI Aayog in 2014, the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission were implemented, leading to the discontinuation of Gadgil Formula-based grants. Instead, the devolution from the divisible pool to all States was increased from 32% to 42%," the source added.

Currently, no additional States are being granted Special Category Status, as the Constitution does not provide for such categorisation, said the source in the government.

Transforming Usha Martin: Rajeev Jhawar’s Blueprint for Global Success

Rajeev Jhawar Usha Martin Ltd Managing Director., has been a pivotal figure in the company’s journey towards becoming a global leader in the wire rope manufacturing industry. With his visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Jhawar has not only navigated the company through challenging times but has also spearheaded significant growth and innovation.

Rajeev jhawar usha martin

Rajeev Jhawar took the helm of Usha Martin Ltd. at a time when the company was facing numerous challenges. Under his leadership, the company has undergone a remarkable transformation. Jhawar’s forward-thinking approach and clear vision have been instrumental in driving the company’s growth. He has focused on modernizing the company’s operations, investing in state-of-the-art technology, and expanding its global footprint.

Rajeev Jhawar’s strategic decisions have been key to Usha Martin’s success. Recognizing the importance of diversification, he has steered the company into new markets and product lines. This strategic expansion has not only increased the company’s market share but has also positioned Usha Martin as a versatile player in the industry. Jhawar’s ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to changing dynamics has kept the company ahead of the curve.

Innovation has been at the core of Rajeev Jhawar leadership philosophy. He has fostered a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within Usha Martin. The company’s R&D efforts have been significantly enhanced, leading to the development of high-performance products that meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide. Jhawar’s emphasis on innovation has ensured that Usha Martin remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the wire rope industry. Under Jhawar’s leadership, Usha Martin has expanded its global presence, establishing itself as a trusted brand in international markets.

Beyond business growth and profitability, Rajeev Jhawar has been committed to the principles of sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Under his leadership, Usha Martin has undertaken various initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and promoting social welfare. These initiatives include sustainable manufacturing practices, community development programs, and efforts to improve the overall well-being of employees and their families. Rajeev believes that a company’s success should be measured not only by its financial performance but also by its contributions to society and the environment. This philosophy has driven Usha Martin to adopt responsible business practices and to engage in activities that support the sustainable development goals.

Rajinikanth Receives UAE's Golden Visa, Thanks Yusuff Ali for Support: 'I'm Deeply Honoured

Superstar Rajinikanth has been awarded the prestigious UAE Golden Visa by the Department of Culture and Tourism. The veteran actor shared the news on social media, expressing his gratitude to the Abu Dhabi government and MA Yusuff Ali, chairman and managing director of Lulu Group, for their support.

In a now-viral video, Rajinikanth stated, “I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious UAE Golden Visa from the Abu Dhabi government. My heartfelt thanks to the Abu Dhabi government, and also to my good friend Mr. Yusuff Ali, CMD of Lulu Group, for facilitating this visa and for all the support.”

During his recent stay in the UAE, Rajinikanth met with Yusuff Ali and other top executives of the Lulu Group. The superstar and the businessman were even seen sharing a ride in a Rolls Royce, sparking fan speculation about a potential collaboration between Rajinikanth and the Lulu Group owner.

On the professional front, Rajinikanth recently completed filming his upcoming movie “Vettaiyan,” written and directed by TJ Gnanavel and produced by Lyca Productions. The film features a star-studded cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, and Dushara Vijayan, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

Earlier this month, Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan were seen filming scenes together. Amitabh Bachchan shared photos of the two on Instagram, writing, “Am honoured and privileged to be with the Thala the Great Rajni again .. he hasn’t changed at all .. the same simple humble down to earth friend despite his stratospheric greatness!!!”

Lyca Productions also shared the photos on their X handle, captioning, “The Titans of Indian Cinema! Superstar @rajinikanth and Shahenshah @SrBachchan grace the sets of Vettaiyan in Mumbai, with their unmatched charisma.” The photos showed Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth in stylish black formals, striking poses, hugging, and engaging in serious conversation. Fans reacted enthusiastically, with many dropping heart emojis in the comments.

1,000 Times More Politics": KL Rahul's Honest Take to Justin Langer on India Coaching Role

Former Australian cricketer Justin Langer was among the top contenders for the position of India’s next head coach. With Rahul Dravid’s contract set to expire after the upcoming T20 World Cup, the BCCI was reportedly exploring multiple options for his replacement. However, Langer has decided to withdraw from consideration, citing the demanding nature of the role. During his tenure with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024, Langer discussed the position with KL Rahul, who highlighted the immense ‘politics and pressure’ associated with being the head coach of the Indian cricket team, describing it as almost ‘a thousand times’ more intense than coaching an IPL team.

“I understand that it’s an all-encompassing role, and having experienced it for four years with the Australian team, it’s exhausting,” Langer shared on BBC Stumped.

“I spoke with KL Rahul, and he mentioned, ‘If you think there’s pressure and politics in an IPL team, multiply that by a thousand, and that’s what coaching India is like.’ That was valuable advice.”

Similarly, Langer’s former teammate Ricky Ponting also indicated his reluctance to pursue the position.

“I’ve seen numerous reports about it,” Ponting stated in an ICC Review interview. “Usually, these things surface on social media before you even hear about them. There were a few private conversations during the IPL to gauge my interest in the role.”

“I would love to be a senior coach of a national team, but considering my current commitments and desire for personal time, it’s not feasible. Everyone knows that if you take on the job with the Indian team, you cannot be involved with an IPL team, which would also eliminate that aspect,” he explained.

“Additionally, being a national head coach is a ten- or eleven-month-a-year job. Although I would like to do it, it doesn’t align with my current lifestyle and other pursuits,” Ponting concluded. 

Rohini College of Engineering and Technology: Shaping the future of aspiring engineers and technologists

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring engineers and technologists. Among these institutions, Rohini College of Engineering and Technology (RCET), best engineering college in Kanyakumari district stands as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development. This article delves into the rich heritage, academic prowess, and transformative impact of RCET in nurturing innovators and leaders in the field of engineering and technology.

RCET-Best Diploma Colleges in Kanyakumari

Rohini College of Engineering and Technology has rapidly emerged as a premier institution synonymous with academic excellence and holistic development. Located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, RCET boasts a sprawling campus equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, laboratories, and amenities conducive to fostering a vibrant learning environment.

At the core of RCET's mission is a commitment to academic excellence, characterized by rigorous curriculum, industry-relevant programs, and distinguished faculty members. The institution offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines of engineering, technology and management, including Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Communication, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering and MBA. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience, RCET's programs empower students with the skills, competencies, and insights needed to excel in their chosen fields.

As the best engineering college in Kanyakumari district, RCET adopts an innovative teaching pedagogy that emphasizes experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement. Through project-based learning, workshops, seminars, and industrial visits, students are exposed to real-world challenges and opportunities, enabling them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. The institution also fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to explore their creative potential and pursue innovative solutions to societal challenges.

RCET, best engineering college in Kanyakumari district maintains strong partnerships with leading industries, organizations, and research institutions, facilitating industry exposure, internships, and placement opportunities for students. The institution's dedicated placement cell works closely with industry partners to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and competencies demanded by the job market. As a result, RCET boasts an impressive track record of placements, with students securing lucrative job offers from top companies across various sectors.

RCET, best engineering college in Kanyakumari district is committed to fostering a culture of research and innovation, driving technological advancements and addressing societal needs. The institution houses cutting-edge research facilities, centres of excellence, and incubation centres to support faculty and student-led research initiatives. Through collaborative research projects, patents, and publications, RCET contributes to the advancement of knowledge and the development of innovative solutions with tangible societal impact.

Beyond academic excellence, RCET places a strong emphasis on holistic development, nurturing students' personal, social, and professional growth. The institution offers a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and cultural events that enrich students' experiences and promote leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. From sports tournaments to cultural festivals, RCET provides a vibrant campus life that fosters creativity, camaraderie, and lifelong friendships.

In conclusion, Rohini College of Engineering and Technology, best engineering college in Kanyakumari district embodies a legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development. With its commitment to nurturing innovators and leaders in the field of engineering and technology, RCET continues to inspire and empower generations of students to realize their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society. As the institution embarks on its journey towards excellence, it remains steadfast in its mission to shape the future of engineering and technology education, one student at a time.

✔For Contact Details:

✔Address: Near Anjugramam JN,

Kanyakumari Main Road,

Palkulam, Tamilnadu,

India -629401.

✔Phone:+91 8531088888

✔Email: admin@rcet.org.in

✔Website: www.rcet.org.in