Union Cabinet Approves Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission to Boost Livestock Sector

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to enhance growth in the livestock sector. The revised scheme, part of the Development Programmes scheme, comes with an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore, bringing the total allocation to ₹3,400 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26). Key Enhancements in Revised RGM1️⃣ Heifer Rearing Centres 🐄 One-time 35% capital cost assistance to Implementing Agencies for setting up 30 housing facilities for a total of 15,000 heifers.2️⃣ Support for High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF Heifers 🧬3% interest subvention on loans taken by farmers from milk unions, banks, and financial institutions to encourage the purchase of HGM IVF heifers.Continuation of Existing RGM ActivitiesStrengthening semen stations and Artificial Insemination (AI) networks.Bull production programme & accelerated breed improvement using sex-sorted semen.Skill development and farmer awareness programs.Establishment of Centres of Excellence and strengthening Central Cattle Breeding Farms.Impact of RGM & Government Efforts📈 Milk production increased 63.55% in the last 10 years.🥛 Per capita milk availability rose from 307 grams/day (2013-14) to 471 grams/day (2023-24).🐃 Productivity improved by 26.34% in the last decade. Achievements of Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme (NAIP)Free AI services provided in 605 districts with low AI coverage (<50%).8.39 crore animals covered and 5.21 crore farmers benefited.22 IVF labs established under State Livestock Boards & Universities.Over 2,541 High Genetic Merit (HGM) calves born through IVF technology.Technological Breakthroughs in Atmanirbhar BharatGau Chip & Mahish Chip: Genomic chips for indigenous bovines, developed by NDDB & ICAR-NBAGR.Gau Sort: Indigenously developed sex-sorted semen production technology by NDDB.The revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission is set to revolutionize India’s dairy and livestock sector, strengthening the country’s position as the world’s largest milk producer. 🐄🚜

Punjab Police Clear Farmer Protest Sites Amidst Rising Industrial Concerns

Punjab Police have begun dismantling structures and removing vehicles stationed by protesting farmers at two major highways, paving the way for their reopening. The action follows over a year-long blockade by farmers protesting for a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other demands. Police Action & Farmer Leaders’ Detention Government Justification & Political Reactions Farmers’ Demands & Unresolved Talks With highways being cleared and negotiations ongoing, the farmer protests remain a major issue in Punjab’s political and economic landscape. 🚜

Telangana government has proposed a ₹17,677 crore allocation for the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department

The Telangana government has proposed a ₹17,677 crore allocation for the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department in the 2025-26 state budget. Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka presented the budget in the Assembly on March 19, 2025, highlighting key urban development initiatives under the H-CITI Plan and the newly established Future City Development Authority (FCDA). Key Announcements & Projects 1. H-CITI Plan (Urban Infrastructure & Traffic Management) 2. Flood Mitigation & Drainage Projects 3. Future City Development Authority (FCDA) 4. SPEED (Smart, Proactive, Efficient, and Effective Delivery) Initiative MA&UD Budget Breakdown (₹17,677 crore) Major Budget Allocations Key Takeaways This budget highlights Telangana’s commitment to urban modernization, sustainable infrastructure, and economic growth. 🚀

Trump, Zelenskyy Discuss Partial Ceasefire and Energy Security in Key Phone Call

Ceasefire Agreement Reached on Energy Infrastructure AttacksIn a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a one-hour phone conversation on Wednesday, following Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The White House confirmed that the leaders agreed on a partial ceasefire, specifically halting attacks on energy infrastructure—a key step toward potential peace talks. Trump described the exchange as a “very good telephone call”, indicating progress in aligning both Ukraine and Russia on their “requests and needs.” White House: ‘We’ve Never Been Closer to Peace’During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt framed the development as a breakthrough, stating: “We have moved beyond just the economic minerals deal framework and are now looking at a lasting ceasefire. Right now, we’re at a partial ceasefire, but we have never been closer to peace than we are today.” Leavitt also announced that Trump’s diplomatic team would travel to Saudi Arabia later this week to advance ceasefire negotiations, with discussions focusing on expanding the agreement to the Black Sea as a step toward full de-escalation. Zelenskyy Welcomes Truce But Calls for MonitoringSpeaking at a press conference in Helsinki, where he met Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed the ceasefire agreement but emphasized the need for international monitoring and guarantees. “Just the assertion and the word of Putin that he will not strike energy sites is too little. War has made us practical people. We need monitoring, we need guarantees, and we need actions—not just promises.” Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine would provide a list of critical infrastructure sites requiring protection and insisted that U.S. and European oversight would be necessary for enforcement. “If Russia doesn’t strike our infrastructure, we will not strike theirs. But we will not rely solely on their assurances—we need independent verification.” Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Ukraine’s Security NeedsDuring the call, Zelenskyy also requested additional air defense systems, specifically Patriot missile batteries, to defend Ukrainian cities from potential Russian strikes. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump assured Zelenskyy the U.S. would work with European partners to explore available options: “President Trump assured President Zelenskyy that he would coordinate with European partners to identify available defense systems. The focus remains on protecting civilians and ensuring Ukraine’s security while advancing toward a broader peace deal.” Trump also proposed American assistance in securing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, suggesting that U.S. utility companies could help strengthen the country’s power grid and nuclear facilities against future threats. “The United States could play a vital role in ensuring Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants are protected. American involvement would be the best safeguard against future threats,” Trump reportedly told Zelenskyy. Next Steps: Saudi Arabia Peace TalksThe next phase of negotiations will take place in Saudi Arabia, where technical teams will discuss ways to expand the ceasefire and further peace efforts. With Trump actively involved, the talks could mark a turning point in efforts to de-escalate the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

Nagpur Police Arrest MDP Leader Fahim Khan for Alleged Role in Communal Violence

Fahim Khan Identified as Mastermind of March 17 Violence Nagpur Police arrested Fahim Shamim Khan, a local leader of the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP), for allegedly masterminding the communal violence that erupted in the city on March 17, injuring several people. Khan’s arrest followed the release of his photograph and a video in which he was seen delivering an inflammatory speech moments before the clashes broke out. Khan Remanded to Police Custody The 38-year-old politician, who serves as the city president of MDP and resides in Sanjay Bagh Colony, Yashodhara Nagar, was officially named in an FIR at Ganeshpeth Police Station before his arrest. He has been remanded to police custody until March 21. Authorities state that preliminary investigations and video evidence indicate his speech played a direct role in escalating tensions. Khan’s Political Background and Election Defeat Fahim Khan contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Nagpur constituency under the MDP banner, challenging senior BJP leader and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. However, he suffered a massive defeat, losing by over 6.5 lakh votes. Communal Clashes and Injuries Violence erupted in Nagpur’s Chitnis Park area on March 17 following rumors about the desecration of a community’s holy book during a right-wing protest demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to stone-pelting and clashes that left 34 police personnel injured. Law Enforcement Actions and Ongoing Curfew Despite lodging an FIR against the protesters, no arrests have been made so far. A senior official confirmed that the law and order situation in Nagpur is now under control, but a curfew remains in effect in sensitive areas. Over 2,000 armed police personnel have been deployed to prevent further unrest.

Israel Launches Targeted Ground Operations in Gaza

Ground Offensive Begins After Airstrikes Israel launched targeted ground operations in the central and southern Gaza Strip just a day after conducting large-scale airstrikes, marking the most intense military action since the ceasefire in January. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the operation aims to expand the security zone and create a partial buffer between northern and southern Gaza. The troops also extended control over the Netzarim Corridor. Deployment of Golani Brigade for Future Operations The IDF announced that the Golani Brigade has been stationed in the Southern Command area, remaining on standby for future operations in Gaza. The military reiterated its commitment to combating terrorist organizations in the region to ensure Israel’s security. Israeli Defence Minister Issues Warning to Gazans Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to Gaza residents, urging them to act on US President Donald Trump’s advice by returning Israeli hostages and removing Hamas from power. In a video statement, Katz stated that Gazans could explore options, including relocating to other parts of the world, if they comply. Heavy Airstrikes and Rising Casualties The recent Israeli airstrikes, which marked the end of the ceasefire with Hamas, continued into Wednesday at a reduced intensity. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 436 people, including 183 children and 94 women, have been killed since Tuesday’s attacks, with another 678 wounded. IDF’s Justification for Military Actions The Israeli military claimed that its operations specifically target militants, blaming Hamas for civilian casualties due to its presence in densely populated areas. The IDF also stated that it struck multiple militant sites, including a Hamas battalion command center. One of the Deadliest Conflicts for Humanitarian Workers The ongoing war in Gaza, which saw a temporary halt in January due to an internationally mediated ceasefire, has been one of the deadliest conflicts for humanitarian workers, according to the United Nations. As tensions continue to escalate, the humanitarian crisis in the region remains dire.

Shah Rukh Khan and Sukumar in Talks for a Rural Political Action Drama

After successful collaborations with south Indian filmmakers like Mani Ratnam (Dil Se) and Atlee (Jawan), Shah Rukh Khan is reportedly in discussions with Pushpa director Sukumar for an exciting new project. Initially rumored to be a dark psychological thriller, fresh buzz now suggests that the film will instead be a rural political action drama. A source told Mid-Day, “King Khan will play an anti-hero, but this will be a rural political action drama that promises to show him in a raw, rustic, and desi avatar. The film will blend his mass appeal with his global superstar image while also exploring social issues like caste and class oppression.” However, fans may have to wait a while before this collaboration materializes, as both SRK and Sukumar have packed schedules. While Sukumar is currently working on RC 17 with Ram Charan, Pushpa 3: The Rampage, and another romantic drama with Ram, Shah Rukh is committed to King and Pathaan 2. Reports suggest that SRK has informed filmmakers eager to work with him that he won’t take on new projects for at least two years. King is set to begin a start-to-finish schedule in May. Atlee Keen on Salman Khan for His Next Meanwhile, director Atlee, who helmed SRK’s Jawan, is eyeing another major Bollywood collaboration. Rumors suggest that Allu Arjun is being considered for the lead in Atlee’s next mass-action entertainer. However, Atlee reportedly does not want to miss the chance to work with Salman Khan. According to industry insiders, Atlee is keen to have Salman play a parallel lead alongside Allu Arjun. If things fall into place, Salman will portray the hero while Arjun takes on the role of the anti-hero. With multiple high-profile collaborations in the works, Bollywood and South Indian cinema continue to blend their star power, promising massive projects for fans in the coming years.

Rakesh Roshan Steps Down as Director of Krrish 4, Paving Way for a New Vision

In a major shift for the beloved Krrish franchise, veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has officially stepped down as the director of Krrish 4. The decision marks the end of an era, as Roshan has helmed every installment of the franchise since its inception. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Roshan explained his decision, stating, “The day has to come when I have to pass on the baton. I should do it when I’m in my senses, so I can oversee the process and ensure it’s being done correctly. Tomorrow, if I’m not in my senses and I have to pass it on, I won’t know what they’re making.” Despite stepping away from the director’s chair, Roshan expressed no regrets, emphasizing that there is no guarantee of success even if he were to direct the film. “That chance we have to take. Also, there’s no guarantee that if Rakesh Roshan directs Krrish 4, it’ll be a blockbuster. It might be the other way round as well,” he added. Krrish 4 Faces Challenges Amid High Budget and Industry Shifts The Krrish franchise, which began with Koi Mil Gaya (2003), followed by Krrish (2006) and Krrish 3 (2013), has been one of Bollywood’s most successful superhero sagas. However, bringing Krrish 4 to life has proven to be a challenge due to rising production costs and evolving audience preferences. Reports suggest that Siddharth Anand, initially attached as a producer, was in talks to secure a studio for Krrish 4, which carries a massive Rs 700 crore budget. However, the long gap since the last installment and concerns about the film’s relevance in a post-Marvel era reportedly led to Anand and director Karan Malhotra exiting the project. With Rakesh Roshan stepping back, speculation is rife about who will take over as director. As the franchise navigates this transition, fans eagerly await further updates on Hrithik Roshan’s return as India’s iconic superhero.

Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency Tops Netflix, Dismisses Oscar Recognition

A week after its release on OTT, Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency has claimed the top spot on Netflix. The actor-turned-MP has been actively sharing fresh reactions and reviews for the film on her Instagram, celebrating its success. Among the many positive reviews, one viewer suggested that Emergency should be India’s official entry for the Oscars. However, Kangana dismissed the idea, calling the award “silly” and accusing America of being a bully that “suppresses and arm twists developing nations.” “#EmergencyOnNetflix should go for the Oscars from India. Kangana, what a film,” a social media user wrote. Kangana responded by saying, “But America wouldn’t like to acknowledge its real face, how they bully, suppress, and arm twist developing nations. It’s been exposed in Emergency. They can keep their silly Oscar. We have National Awards.” Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta Praises Emergency Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta, known for his crime thrillers, admitted that he had “prejudged” Emergency but was pleasantly surprised by its execution. “Today I watched Emergency by @KanganaTeam. Very frankly, I wasn’t planning to as I had prejudged it. I am so glad that I was wrong. What a fantastic film by Kangana—both performance & direction. Top Notch & World Class,” Gupta wrote. Kangana appreciated the acknowledgment and encouraged the industry to move past its biases. She replied, “Film industry must come out of its hate and prejudices and acknowledge good work. Thanks for breaking that barrier, Sanjay ji. My message to all filmi intellectuals: never keep any notions about me. Mujhe samajhne ki koshish bhi mat karna, main pahunch se bahar hoon (Don’t try to figure me out, I am out of your reach).” Fans Praise Kangana’s Performance A viewer also praised Kangana’s performance in the film, suggesting it might be her best yet. Responding to this, she said, “People are calling my acting in Emergency amazing and my best ever. Could I surpass Queen, Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Fashion, and Thalaivi? Watch Emergency and find out.” Emergency Tops Netflix India Since its release on Netflix last Friday, Emergency has dominated the streaming platform. As of Sunday evening, it remains the number one trending movie, surpassing Ajay Devgn’s Azaad and Naga Chaitanya-Sai Pallavi’s Thandel.

Pushpa 3: The Rampage Set for 2028 Release, Confirms Producer Ravi Shankar

Producer Ravi Shankar has officially confirmed that Pushpa 3: The Rampage is in development and will arrive sooner than expected. The much-anticipated sequel, starring Allu Arjun, is slated for release in 2028. Speaking at a media event for his latest film Robinhood, Shankar revealed that the team is determined to bring the film to audiences without significant delays. Allu Arjun is currently occupied with two major projects—one with director Atlee Kumar and another with Trivikram Srinivas. According to Shankar, the superstar will only begin work on Pushpa 3 after completing these two commitments, which are expected to take at least two years. “Pushpa 3 is definitely on! Allu Arjun is presently doing two films with director Atlee and Trivikram Srinivas. He’ll take at least two years to complete them before moving on to Pushpa 3,” the producer stated. He also acknowledged that the second installment, Pushpa 2: The Rule, took longer than expected due to multiple factors. However, he assured fans that such delays would not affect Pushpa 3. “We won’t delay things like it happened earlier. We hope to come back quickly within three years, so the film will arrive somewhere in 2028,” he added. This is the first time the producer has officially spoken about the third part of the franchise. While the announcement for Pushpa 3 was teased in the end credits of Pushpa 2, details about the storyline and production plans remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, Pushpa director Sukumar is currently working on his next project with Telugu superstar Ram Charan. Reports suggest that he will take at least two years to complete this film before shifting his focus back to the Pushpa franchise. After its release in December last year, Pushpa 2: The Rule became the highest-grossing Indian film of all time at the domestic box office. The film, starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil, amassed a staggering ₹1,234.1 crore nett in India and ₹1,742.1 crore worldwide.

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