Opinion: Opinion: Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Nyay Yatra – Bad Timing?

Invites to the Ram Temple consecration in Ayodhya have sent the Opposition into a tailspin. The Left parties, as expected, have spoken against the event. Sharad Pawar, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav and Uddhav Thackeray have voiced their reservations. 

Congress sources say Sonia Gandhi may attend the event on January 22, though it will finally decide closer to the day. And in more evidence of the party’s dilemma, it took three days to react to the statement from Chicago by overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda, considered Rahul Gandhi’s mentor. Jairam Ramesh said Sam Pitroda had not reflected the party’s position. That position has not been spelt out yet.

The aura of Ayodhya’s Ram temple inauguration will not be the only Hindutva surge. The Ayodhya judgment, which facilitated the temple’s construction, came on 9 November 2019. In July that year, during his visit to the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had succeeded in persuading the Abu Dhabi ruler to allot 17 acres of land to the Swaminarayan cult for a Hindu temple in Arabia. In mid-February, this temple too will be inaugurated during a ‘Festival of Harmony’ in Modi’s presence. UAE has an Indian population of 3.5 million.

In 1949, when the Ayodhya dispute escalated with the sudden appearance of a deity at the site, there was no Jana Sangh or BJP (Jana Sangh was founded in 1951). During an assembly by-election in Faizabad (renamed Ayodhya in 2018) the Congress nominated a seer, Baba Raghav Das, who defeated socialist stalwart Acharya Narendra Dev after a communally vitriolic campaign. 

The site became a matter of dispute soon afterwards and a lock was installed at the premises, which was opened after a court order in February 1986 during the Rajiv Gandhi regime. The presence of union ministers and live Doordarshan coverage of the lock opening pointed at official culpability in the event. The Shilanyas (foundation stone laying) of the temple was done on the eve of the 1989 elections under the orders of the Congress regime.

While the Congress vacillates, the BJP has always been steadfast on its stand. ‘Mandir’ is not the only agenda on which the BJP is pegging its 2024 strategy. The ‘labharthis’ or beneficiaries of government schemes are being targeted assiduously.

As the election year rolls in, it is incumbent upon the opposition to aim for replacing the incumbent government. The 28 non-BJP parties lined up on the INDIA bloc platform are hoping that like in 2004, when Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s “India Shining” campaign failed, 2024 will see the BJP unable to cross the halfway mark, throwing open the possibility of the return of coalition politics.

The Congress, which won 145 against the BJP’s 138 in 2004, was able to stitch together a motley coalition and form a government headed by Dr Mammohan Singh, remote controlled by the Sonia Gandhi-headed National Advisory Committee (NAC). The Congress interpreted that election result as a ‘mandate’ whereas it merely presented it an opportunity to govern. Governance-deficit or policy paralysis became the regime’s nadir a decade later.

2024 is not 2004. The BJP is not seeking a mandate now as a party bereft of Lok Sabha majority. In 2014 and 2019, Narendra Modi’s charisma, riding on Amit Shah’s election management juggernaut, ensured a clear majority for the BJP. The well-oiled machinery works 24×7, all 12 months, unlike the election preps of other parties that begin just before polls. The BJP’s clarity of purpose is pitted against an opposition mired in crosscurrents.

As the INDIA parties confabulate, devoid of an agenda and on the sole plank that Modi has to go, the BJP has been concentrating on rolling out its message through the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (BVSY) vans crisscrossing the countryside since mid-November with the message of the government’s welfare schemes. It is a government programme that the BJP cadre are aiding and monitoring. As the vans travel, those who have not benefitted so far are identified and added to the list of beneficiaries (labharthis).

Modi has regularly interacted with the labharthis targeted by the yatra vans across the country. Interactions through video conferencing took place on November 30, December 9, 16, and 27. These meetings have been telecast and are being cascaded by the BJP’s cyber-warriors. The vans have been described by him as “Modi ki guarantee ki gaadi”.

The BJP under Modi has fulfilled manifesto promises made by Jana Sangh since its formation in 1952, like the abrogation of Article 370 and the adoption of a citizenship Act. The Ram temple was adopted as an agenda at Palampur by the BJP in 1987. The Article 370 decision has received the Supreme Court’s approval. The Ayodhya dispute, which began in 1858 and intensified in 1949, was resolve in the Supreme Court, which enabled the construction of the temple. BJP-ruled states like Uttarakhand have begun the spadework for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Governments have collapsed in the past after well-planned mass movements. The JP movement of 1974 set the stage for opposition unity and the Congress rout of 1977. The Bofors propaganda and mass mobilisation by VP Singh from 1987 onwards ousted Rajiv Gandhi in 1989. The Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement in 2011 gave birth to the Aam Aadmi Party and provided the backdrop for the defeat of Manmohan Singh by the BJP in 2014.

There is no mass mobilisation in the present day. The INDIA parties, during the recent parliament session when 146 MPs were suspended, threatened mass action. Only a one-day united protest at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar ensued. During the previous session, the MPs of these parties walked 200 meters on Vijay Chowk to express their angst. The opposition’s mobilisation is sans masses, only placards and protests within the secure confines of Lutyen’s Delhi have marked their anti-Modi shows.

Rahul Gandhi will now embark on his Bharat Nyay Yatra, which is the Bharat Jodo Yatra 2.0. It is claimed that his previous yatra yielded the Congress victories in Karnataka and Telangana. The yatra had passed through Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan as well. 

On the one hand, the Congress is seeking crowd funding to meet its pecuniary crunch. On the other, a lavish bus journey across 14 states is being rolled out. In an election year, a political party keeps aside its resources for funding candidates. 

Not only in strategy, but also in the deployment of resources, the Congress’s priorities seem lopsided. The response of INDIA allies to Rahul Gandhi’s yatra will be worth noting, considering it is Mallikarjun Kharge, not Rahul, who emerged as the focal point in the recent INDIA conclave.

The Nyay Yatra may provide additional branding for Rahul Gandhi when he addresses audiences abroad, along with the efforts of Sam Pitroda. But will it help rebuild the Congress brand?

(Shubhabrata Bhattacharya is a retired Editor and a public affairs commentator)

Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author

Plan your trips accordingly with these long weekends in 2024

As you plan your adventures, mark these dates on your calendar for a year filled with exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

Updated On – 02:31 PM, Fri – 29 December 23


Plan your trips accordingly with these long weekends in 2024


Hyderabad: As we step into 2024, travel enthusiasts and holidaymakers have reason to rejoice! With 15 long weekends, the year offers an ideal opportunity to break free from the daily grind and rejuvenate. As you plan your adventures, mark these dates on your calendar for a year filled with exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

January 2024: A Festive Kickstart


The year starts with a bang as the first month of the year offers two extended weekends. January 13, the second Saturday, is followed by holidays on January 14 and 15 for Bhogi and Pongal. Another long weekend occurs in the month when Republic Day falls on a Friday, followed by the fourth Saturday and Sunday.

March 2024: Holi and More

March ushers in three extended weekends. Commencing with Mahashivaratri celebrated on Friday, March 8, the weekend extends through Saturday and Sunday. Subsequently, after the fourth Saturday and Sunday, Holi graces Monday, March 25. Good Friday is observed on March 29, ensuing a weekend, providing ample time for relaxation and celebration.

April 2024: A Blockbuster Extravaganza

April is a delightful treat for vacationers. While Babu Jagjivan Ram’s birthday falls on April 5 (Friday), followed by Ugadi on April 9 (Tuesday), and Eid-ul-Fitr on April 11. The following day of Eid-ul-Fitr on April 12 is also declared a holiday. If you can manage a leave on April 8 and 10, you’ll find yourself basking in a blockbuster weekend from April 8 to 12 – an ideal opportunity for an extended getaway.

May 2024: A four-day vacation

With Buddha Purnima on May 23 (Thursday), extend the calm by taking a day off on May 24 (Friday) for a tranquil long weekend getaway.

June 2024: Potential long weekend

If Bakri Eid falls on June 17 (Monday), the month could have one long weekend.

August 2024: Extended Celebrations and Getaways

With Independence Day falling on Thursday, extend the celebration by taking a leave on Friday, leading into the weekend. August 19 is a holiday marking Raksha Bandhan, paving a way for a five-day vacation.

Additionally, Janmashthami on August 26 (Monday), followed by a weekend, offers a three –day weekend.

September 2024: A leisure 3-day weekend

Followed by a weekend, Milad un Nabi occurs on September 16 (Monday). Utilize this leisurely weekend to rejuvenate before diving into the October festivities.

October 2024: Festive Extravaganza

October promises an extended vacation with Maha Navmi on October 11 (Friday), Dussehra on October 12 (Saturday), and October 13 (Sunday). With strategic leave planning on either Thursday or Monday (or both), you can relish a glorious five-day vacation.

Diwali is on October 31st (Thursday), and if you opt to take Friday off, you can relish a four-day vacation.

November 2024: Relish a blissful weekend:

In November, there is a single extended weekend with Guru Nanak Jayanti occurring on November 11 (Friday), followed by Saturday and Sunday.

December 2024: A Merry Christmas Treat

Followed by a weekend, December 25 (Monday) marks the Christmas holiday, and the celebration continues with Boxing Day on December 26 (Tuesday).

Pakistan bans New Year Eve celebrations

In an evening televised address to the nation, Pakistan Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar said because of the situation in the Gaza Strip, the government had “completely banned all kinds of events regarding the New Year celebrations”.

Israel’s relentless aerial bombardment and ground invasion of Gaza, in retaliation for Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, has left much of the territory’s north in ruins, and killed at least 21,320 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.

Kakar said Thursday, “The entire Pakistani nation and the Muslim Ummah were deeply saddened by the genocide of the oppressed Palestinians, especially the massacre of innocent children, in Gaza and the West Bank.”

New Year’s Eve is usually marked in boisterous fashion in Pakistan, with fireworks and aerial gunfire — as well as a bank holiday on 1 January.

Sharjah, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday banned New Year’s Eve fireworks over the war in Gaza.

The ban was “a sincere expression of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with our siblings in the Gaza Strip”, Sharjah police said in a Facebook post.

RHM/Press TV

Watch: Bizarre Scenes As Australia Take 5 Runs Without Boundary Or No Ball

Watch: Bizarre Scenes As Australia Take Five Runs Without Boundary Or No Ball In Boxing Day Test vs Pakistan

Australia collected five runs without any boundaries or no ball in the second innings.© X (Twitter)

In a rare sight, Australia collected five runs without any boundaries or no ball in the second innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test against Pakistan in Melbourne. The incident happened after play resumed on Day 4 with Australia captain Pat Cummins and wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey in the middle. Cummins pushed Aamer Jamal‘s delivery through point as he and Carey sneaked a couple of runs. However, the throw to the bowler’s end was missed by Jamal and it resulted in an overthrow.

While Imam-ul-Haq made a long chase to stop the ball from going for a boundary, Cummins and Carey completed three more runs due to the comedy of errors.

A fired-up Cummins bagged five wickets and 10 for the match to earn Australia a nail-biting 79-run win in the second Test and clinch the series against Pakistan Friday.

Set 317 to win, the visitors put up a stellar fight, but were dismissed for 237, with the last five wickets falling for just 18 runs.

Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 262 in the second innings, but managed to set a target of 317.

Carey slammed 53 to help Australia build their overnight lead and quieten chatter about his form after losing his place in the one-day side to Josh Inglis.

He resumed on 16 after Australia had bounced back from 16-4 thanks to an attacking 96 from Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith’s gutsy 50.

Cummins made a breezy 16 but was caught behind by Mohammad Rizwan off Aamer Jamal, while Lyon crunched two straight fours off Jamal, then was bowled for 11 three deliveries later.

Carey brought up his sixth Test half-century before being the last man out, lbw to Mir Hamza.

The highest-ever successful fourth innings run chase at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was 332-7 by England in 1928, with scores over 300 rare.

(With AFP Inputs)

Topics mentioned in this article

#1 Online Pharmacy to Buy Zopiclone in the UK [Next Day Delivery]

#1 Online Pharmacy to Buy Zopiclone in the UK [Next Day Delivery]

If you’re looking for effective insomnia relief in the UK, Zopiclone may be a potential solution. However, navigating its purchase legally and safely, especially online, can be tricky. In the UK, obtaining Zopiclone requires a valid prescription due to its controlled substance classification. But fear not. This guide covers everything you need to know about this med, including its legality, effectiveness, correct dosage, benefits, and potential side effects. Plus, it reveals the best place to buy Zopiclone online without a prescription and for cheap in the UK with next-day delivery. Let’s dive in.

What Is Zopiclone?

Zopiclone is a prescription med that is primarily used to treat insomnia. While its primary focus is on improving sleep, some users may also find that it has a secondary effect of relieving anxiety. The med is a sleeping pill that belongs to the class of drugs known as nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, which act on the central nervous system to induce sleep. It is available in oral tablet and oral solution forms [1].

Zopiclone was initially developed in the 1980s by Rhône-Poulenc S.A., a French pharmaceutical company, now part of Sanofi-Aventis, the main worldwide manufacturer of the drug. It was introduced as a treatment for insomnia and received approval for medical use in various countries, including the United Kingdom, under different brand names.

Legality of Zopiclone in the United Kingdom

Zopiclone is classified as a Class C controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in the United Kingdom. In 2014, the UK government categorized the med as such due to concerns about potential dependence and misuse. Additionally, Zopiclone was added to Part 1 of Schedule 4 to the 2001 Regulations, subjecting it to specific regulatory controls. It’s important to note that while the medication is legal with a valid prescription, possessing it without a prescription from a licensed medical practitioner is illegal [2].

Zopiclone in the UK: How to Buy Pills Without Rx Online

As mentioned earlier, purchasing Zopiclone online without a prescription in the UK is illegal and unsafe, as it is a controlled substance requiring a valid prescription for legal acquisition. However, some online pharmacies, particularly those dealing with medications not classified as highly controlled or prohibited drugs, operate within legal frameworks, facilitating legitimate access to meds.

Online drug vendors primarily serve as platforms for purchasing various meds, often sourcing them from suppliers in countries like India, where prescription drug laws might be less stringent. Even though these vendors may provide access to meds, they don’t replace the need for a healthcare professional’s assessment and prescription. Engaging with a qualified physician is essential for a thorough evaluation of your health condition, determining the appropriate medication, and dosage, and monitoring for any potential adverse effects or interactions with other meds.

The origin of meds from countries with less stringent prescription drug laws doesn’t negate the necessity of obtaining a valid prescription or the importance of responsible medication use. Valid prescriptions remain a legal requirement in most countries, including the UK, to ensure safe and regulated access to meds while minimizing risks linked with misuse or improper administration.

The Best Place to Order Zopiclone Online with Fastest Delivery in the UK

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When looking to purchase Zopiclone or any prescription medication online, it’s crucial to be cautious of rogue vendors who may sell counterfeit drugs. These unscrupulous sellers operate outside legal boundaries and pose significant risks to consumers. Some of them may engage in fraudulent practices, taking your money without delivering the ordered medication or providing counterfeit, substandard, or potentially harmful drugs.

Choosing a tested and legitimate vendor like BuyGenerics.com is paramount to ensure the authenticity, safety, and effectiveness of the medication you receive. It stands out as one of the best vendors for Zopiclone in the UK, offering stringent security measures and buyer protection, as well as receiving consistently high reviews from shoppers.

BuyGenerics makes it possible to buy Zopiclone online with no prescription needed. The drug is available in various doses including Zop (zopiclone) 7.5mg. You can also purchase Zopiclone in a dose strength of 10 mg. The platform’s dedication to providing genuine products has earned it a solid reputation for reliability. Buyers can trust in the authenticity of the meds offered, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of their purchases. Additionally, the e-pharmacy prioritizes prompt delivery services, facilitating next-day delivery for those in need of swift access to their pills.

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In addition to domestic shipping, which may take 25 business days if next-day delivery isn’t available, the vendor provides a fast express shipping option directly to your doorstep. All orders are shipped via Express Mail Service from India, Singapore, or the UAE, based on current circumstances. International express shipping costs $39 but becomes free on purchases totaling $170 or more. Typically, delivery via express shipping takes approximately 712 working days.

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How Does Zopiclone Work? Is It Safe?

The mechanism of action of Zopiclone involves the enhancement of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter crucial for calming brain activity. The drug binds to specific GABA receptors, amplifying the inhibitory effects of the neurotransmitter. This induces relaxation and drowsiness, thereby facilitating sleep initiation and improving sleep maintenance. By promoting a more tranquil neural environment, Zopiclone contributes to the overall sedative effects necessary for a restful and uninterrupted sleep experience [3].

When used as directed and for a short duration, Zopiclone is considered safe for treating insomnia. It demonstrates effectiveness with a low risk of adverse effects but should be approached with caution regarding tolerability [4]. However, like any med, there are potential side effects (discussed below) and risks associated with its use, including the potential for dependence or withdrawal symptoms if used over an extended period or in higher-than-prescribed doses.

Is Zopiclone Effective for Insomnia?

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Zopiclone is effective in treating various types of insomnia. It facilitates a swifter onset of sleep, reducing the time taken to initiate the sleep cycle. Moreover, it extends the overall duration of sleep, ensuring a longer and more vital rest period for users. It also aids in minimizing disruptions during the night, leading to fewer instances of awakening and promoting a more uninterrupted sleep pattern. By contributing to a deeper and more restful sleep experience, Zopiclone significantly enhances overall sleep quality. However, its efficacy may vary among individuals, and it’s essential to use the drug strictly as prescribed by a physician to maximize its effectiveness while minimizing potential risks.

Moreover, lifestyle changes and non-pharmacological strategies can complement Zopiclone in effectively managing insomnia. Examples include maintaining consistent sleep schedules, avoiding stimulants before bedtime, regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, considering dietary adjustments, limiting screen time, and considering cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). These strategies improve sleep quality and can be beneficial when combined with Zopiclone or used independently.

Zopiclone Correct Dosage: How Much to Take

Zopiclone comes in various dosage strengths, including 3.75 mg and 7.5 mg. The generic version of the drug is available in the 10 mg dose. The recommended dosage of the drug varies based on individual factors such as age and health conditions. For most adults, the typical starting dose is one 7.5 mg tablet before bedtime to manage insomnia effectively. Elderly individuals or those with liver or kidney issues may require adjusted dosages. They often start with one low-strength (LS) tablet (3.75 mg) and may increase to a full-strength (7.5 mg or 10 mg) tablet if needed and well-tolerated [1].

Zopiclone isn’t suitable for individuals under 18 years old, as its safety and efficacy in this age group have not been established. To ensure safe usage and effectiveness, it’s crucial for individuals with specific health conditions or those taking other medications to consult their healthcare provider. They can receive personalized guidance on Zopiclone dosage tailored to their specific health needs and circumstances. Always adhere to the prescribed dosage and guidelines provided by a physician for the safe and effective use of the drug in managing insomnia.

Benefits of Zopiclone

The benefits of Zopiclone primarily revolve around its effectiveness in treating insomnia. As a medication in the class of nonbenzodiazepines, the drug facilitates faster sleep onset, diminishes nighttime awakenings, and improves overall sleep quality. Its primary advantage lies in its ability to address short-term sleep disturbances, promoting better sleep duration. However, it’s crucial to note that the benefits are tailored for short-term use, and prolonged usage requires careful consideration due to potential risks such as dependence or tolerance.

Possible Side Effects of Using Zopiclone

Frequently reported side effects of Zopiclone, affecting more than 1 in 100 people, include a bitter or metallic taste, dry mouth, and feeling sleepy or tired the next day. If these symptoms persist, speaking to a doctor or pharmacist for guidance is advisable. Although serious side effects are rare, they can include memory issues, hallucinations, falls (especially if over 65), false beliefs, or depression. Immediate medical attention is essential if such severe side effects occur. In rare cases, a serious allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, may occur in response to Zopiclone, requiring urgent medical care [5]. It’s crucial to be aware of these potential side effects and consult a physician if experiencing any concerning symptoms while using this med.

Conclusion: What Is the Best Legal Zopiclone Vendor in the UK?

Conclusively, while Zopiclone proves to be highly effective in treating insomnia, understanding its proper usage, benefits in enhancing sleep quality, the correct dosage for various individuals, and potential side effects is essential. Whether you require this med with or without a prescription, sourcing it from a legitimate vendor that offers quality products at an affordable price is imperative.

BuyGenerics.com stands out as the preferred vendor to buy Zopiclone online in the UK with next-day delivery. The e-pharmacy is known for providing genuine medications at a low cost, featuring substantial discounts and additional offers. Also, its parcel shipping service is swift, ensuring timely deliveries, including next-day options for those in proximity to the vendor’s warehouse. Choosing BuyGenerics ensures both affordability and reliability in obtaining Zopiclone.

References

  1. Zopiclone. Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton. Retrieved: December 17, 2023. Drugs.com.
  2. Effect of Anxiolytic and Hypnotic Drug Prescriptions on Mortality Hazards: Retrospective Cohort Study. Published: October 27, 2015. Bmj.com.
  3. Zopiclone. Retrieved: December 17, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
  4. The Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Insomnia Drugs: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of 153 Randomized Trials. By Bei Pan, Long Ge, Honghao Lai, et al. Published: March 22, 2023. Springer.com.

Side Effects of Zopiclone. Retrieved: December 17, 2023. Nhs.uk.

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Four Mossad-Linked Saboteurs Executed: Iran Judiciary


Four main members of a sabotage team affiliated with the Israeli Mossad spy agency have been executed in northwestern Iran after being convicted of acting against the country’s security. (Illustrative photo)

Four convicts who were found guilty of working with the Israeli Mossad spy agency and participating in armed kidnapping, intimidation and assault of security forces in the northwestern province of West Azarbaijan were executed on Friday.

According to Mizan Online, the Judiciary’s news agency, the four were part of a ten-member sabotage group linked to Mossad, whose main objective was to identify Iranian intelligence agents who were foiling Israeli plots against Iran.

The main four convicts of the team, including three men and a woman, were hanged on Friday morning on charges of “corruption on Earth” and “waging war against God” (moharebeh) through intelligence cooperation with Israel with intent to undermine Iran’s security.

They were all tracked down and arrested after complex intelligence operations and close surveillance. The report of their arrest was published in October 2022.

Head of the provincial Justice Department Nasser Atabati said then that the group members, under the direct supervision of Mossad officers, were instructed to locate individuals affiliated with Iran’s security apparatus and obtain information from them through abduction, death threats, and brutal battery.

He added that the convicts had received money from Israeli agents and Mossad officers on several occasions for the tasks they had completed.

The official also noted that the detainees had communicated with Mossad officers via video calls, and had performed acts of sabotage in Iran’s northwestern West Azarbaijan Province, the capital Tehran and southern Hormozgan Province.

The members of the team also set fire to the homes and cars of the people linked with the Iranian security organizations, Atabati said, noting they were even involved in several abortive assassination attempts against Iranian security forces.

They had even unsuccessfully tried to assassinate Iranian security and intelligence forces.


Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.co.uk

X-37B Launched: All About US Military's Secretive Spaceplane

X-37B Launched: All About US Military's Secretive Spaceplane

The spaceplane resembles a miniature NASA space shuttle.

The Falcon Heavy rocket of SpaceX, the company owned by billionaire Elon Musk, on Thursday launched a US military plane that has generated a lot of interest among the space community in recent years. The X-37B has gone to space without any crew and will carry out cutting-edge research, according to CNN. It is not known exactly where the spaceplane is going. The secretive plane has already spent 3,774 days in orbit across six prior missions, with the last one lasting a record 908 days.

What is known about X-37B?

The plane has always been under a veil of secrecy. With Thursday’s launch, the X-37B has been to the space for seven times.

The spaceplane resembles a miniature NASA space shuttle with the windows blacked out. The X-37B has been known to carry out research on concepts such as relaying solar energy from space for use back on Earth and studying the effects of radiation on seeds used to grow food, according to CNN.

The launch came two weeks after China’s own robot spaceplane, known as the Shenlong, or “Divine Dragon”, was launched on its third mission to orbit since 2020, according to news agency Reuters.

The X-37B has been built by Boeing and is roughly the size of a small bus. At the end of its mission, the craft descends back through the atmosphere to land on a runway much like an airplane.

What does the use of Falcon Heavy rocket signify?

Paul Graziani, CEO of COMSPOC, a company dedicated to tracking objects in space, told CNN that the use of one of the most powerful rockets in the world could mean the spaceplane will take payloads farther in space.

“If the military doesn’t want people to track the X-37B, the vehicle can be hidden in the glare of the sun or by various other means – including changing its position often,” added Mr Graziani.

“I think it’s one of the most interesting things that’s happened in space in a long time, whatever it’s going to do,” said the expert.

There is speculation that the spaceplane is heading towards geosynchronous orbit, which lies about 22,400 miles (36,000 kilometres) from Earth.

What’s on board the X-37B?

CNN said that US space agency NASA has sent research that aims to find ways to sustain astronauts on future deep-space missions. Called Seeds-2, it will “expose plant seeds to the harsh radiation environment of long-duration spaceflight” and build on research carried out on previous X-37B missions.

The ability to cultivate crops in space has major implications for keeping astronauts nourished during future long-term missions to the moon and Mars.

The planned duration of the latest X-37B mission was not made public, but it will presumably run until June 2026 or later, given the prevailing pattern of successively longer flights.

Cyber crimes push overall crime rate in Telangana by 8.97 per cent in 2023, says DGP

Director General of Police, Ravi Gupta who released the annual crime report 2023 here on Friday, said though the year has been hectic with the assembly polls and bandobast duties for various festivals, it concluded incident free.

Published Date – 02:41 PM, Fri – 29 December 23


Cyber crimes push overall crime rate in Telangana by 8.97 per cent in 2023, says DGP


Hyderabad: Overall crime in Telangana has increased by 8.97 per cent in 2023, according to the state police’s annual report. The state also saw a rise in the number of cybercrimes this year, with an increase of 17.59 per cent.

Director General of Police, Ravi Gupta who released the annual crime report 2023 here on Friday, said though the year has been hectic with the assembly polls and bandobast duties for various festivals, it concluded incident free.


“There was an increase in the overall crime rate across the state compared to the previous year. This year we have registered 2, 13,121 cases against 1, 95,582 in the previous year. Compared to last year, cybercrimes too have increased significantly this year with a total of 16339 cases reported in 2023 against 13895 cases in 2022,” the DGP said.

This year the police also registered a total of 1108 Zero FIRs.

Of the 73 rape cases registered this year, 84 people involved were sentenced to life imprisonment.

This year, DGP said a total of 1360 drug cases have been registered under NDPS across the State. Compared to last year, drug cases have increased by 15.6 per cent. Police have arrested 2583 persons in drug cases and seized 25,260 kgs of marijuana.

In 2023, a total of 1877 cases of Prevention of Atrocities against SC/ ST cases have been registered across the State.

Iran executes 4 Mossad agents

It was on October 24, that the Chief of Justice department of West Azerbaijan Province, northwest of Iran, announced that 10 agents connected to the Israeli regime were arrested, whose main task was to identify Iran’s security forces active in fighting against the regime.

They kidnapped the Iranian forces and tried to extract information from them by threatening and beating them. 

The agents arrested had received money from the Israeli regime’s Mossad officers on several occasions for the missions they had completed, including setting fire to Iranian security officers’ houses and vehicles.

They even tried to assassinate the Iranian official but they failed.

The agents were active in Hormozgan, West Azerbaijan, and Tehran provinces, respectively south, northwest, and north of Iran. 

MNA/Iran Press

2021 And 2023 Blasts Near Israel Embassy Share Chilling Similarities

2021 And 2023 Blasts Near Israel Embassy Share Chilling Similarities

Chanakyapuri, a crucial diplomatic hub, is under constant surveillance by over 100 CCTV cameras.

New Delhi:

The explosion near the Israel Embassy in Delhi Tuesday night has striking similarities with the IED blast in the same locality in 2021. Delhi Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have drawn significant parallels between the two incidents, both of which took place near the diplomatic enclave in Chanakyapuri.

The blast on Tuesday took place approximately a kilometre from the Israel Embassy and triggered a swift response from various law enforcement agencies. Chanakyapuri, housing numerous embassies, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, is now under heightened security.

The NIA has underscored striking similarities between the recent explosion and the IED blast near the Israel Embassy on January 29, 2021. Both incidents involve suspects meticulously conducting reconnaissance on the locations of CCTV cameras, making their getaway in an auto, and eventually seeking refuge in the Jamia area of the national capital. Despite the identification of suspects in the 2021 case, no arrests have been made thus far.

Both instances also share the discovery of typed letters at the blast sites, containing threatening language that includes references to “jihad” against Israel. The recent letter, claiming affiliation with an organisation called Sir Allah Resistance, included the phrase “Allah hu Akbar.” 

Security Measures In Chanakyapuri

Chanakyapuri, a crucial diplomatic hub, is under constant surveillance by over 100 CCTV cameras. The Diplomatic Cell, a specialised department of Delhi Police, enforces stringent security measures in the area, including a ban on vehicle parking and photography. Quick Response Teams (QRT) and vans patrol the region 24/7.

Security arrangements for the diplomatic enclave involve coordination between Delhi Police’s Special Cell, the Intelligence Bureau, and other law enforcement agencies. The Israel Embassy itself is responsible for its internal security.

Anti-Terror Agency Probe

Following the blast on Tuesday, the NIA has offered a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to the identification of the suspects. The investigation is actively focused on the typewritten letter found at the blast site, which contained explicit threats.

This morning, the NIA revisited the blast site, collecting samples of grass and leaves for forensic analysis.

With security concerns escalating, the authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of the diplomatic enclave and its residents. 

Delhi Police is also scouring CCTV footage and analysing mobile phone data to track down potential suspects.

Authorities have compiled a list of individuals spotted near the site just before the explosion, identified through camera recordings. Statements from at least 10 security guards and passersby who reported hearing the blast and seeing smoke have also been recorded.