AHMEDABAD l WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020 l Pages 14 l 3.00 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208 l Vol 1 l Issue No.

38
2020

VISION DOCUMENT REVIEW: PM MODI

TO HOLD TWO-DAY MEET FROM JAN 3
New Delhi: Prime Min- cluding home minis- KEY ATTENDEES cal, and banks, non-food
ister Narendra Modi ter Amit Shah, fi- credit growth was hov-
will chair a critical nance and corporate Key ministers including Home Minister Amit Shah, ering around a two-year
two-day meeting dur- affairs minister Nir- Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala low until recently be-
ing January 3-4 to re- mala Sitharaman, Sitharaman, Transport and MSME Minister Nitin fore slowing further.
view the five-year vi- transport and MSME Gadkari and Commerce and Industry Minister The Modi govern-
sion documents of minister Nitin Gad- Piyush Goyal are expected to attend the meeting ment had first set up
various ministries and kari and commerce among others. the sectoral groups in
departments, said a and industry minis- 2016 on key areas, in-
senior government offi- ter Piyush Goyal – are cluding finance and
cial. The meeting comes expected to attend the the corporate tax through a critical corporate affairs,
at a time when growth meeting, among oth- rate cut, push for phase. Citing growth commerce and indus-
plunged to an over six- ers. Some of the ideas credit offtake, recapi- concerns, Moody’s re- try, agriculture and
year low of 4.5% in the presented in these vi- talisation of state- cently trimmed India’s allied sectors, trans-
September quarter, with sion documents may run banks, a WTO- sovereign rating out- port and communica-
analysts warning that find mention in the compatible scheme to look to ‘negative’ from tions, energy and en-
the economy is in the next Budget. boost exports, and a ‘stable’. Industrial pro- vironment, health,
midst of a prolonged The meeting will fo- Rs 25,000-crore fund duction shrank in Sep- sanitation and urban
phase of slowdown. cus on ways to boost (including contribu- tember to an eight-year development, educa-
As many as 10 ‘secto- growth as well as pri- tions by LIC and SBI) low, while eight core tion and social devel-
ral groups’ comprising vate investments and committed for hous- infrastructure indus- opment, governance
secretaries of several help India turn into a As many as 10 ‘sectoral groups’ comprising secretaries of several departments will give ing’ is expected. Steps tries witnessed their and crisis manage-
departments will give $5-trillion economy by presentations before the council of ministers, headed by PM Modi. required to ensure worst contraction at ment. The composition
presentations before 2024, as envisioned by ‘ease of living’ is also least since April 2005 in of the groups has
the council of minis- the Prime Minister. to give a presentation on corporate affairs. by the government likely to feature in the September. Exports de- changed over time, as
ters, headed by Modi. Finance Secretary behalf of the sectoral A brief review of recently to perk up discussions. clined in five of the first some of the top bureau-
Key ministers – in- Rajiv Kumar is expected group on finance and the measures taken growth, including The economy is going eight months of this fis- crats have since retired.

Rupani govt forms panel to connect with Gujaratis across nation

Haresh Jhala Rupani’s commit- them to invest in the planned in their respec- hospitals.
ment to the cause could state. tive states. The whole This card is target-
Gandhinagar: The be understood from the The state organizes motive is to encourage ed at NRGs living
State Government on fact that he will himself many festivals in a year, Gujaratis’ to partici- abroad and is issued
Tuesday decided to con- be the chairman of this like Ranotsav, Interna- pate and play an active against the payment 5
stitute Akhil Bharatiya committee. NRG Minis- tional Kite Festival, role in building a more US dollars. Such card
Gujarati Samaj Coordi- ter and MoS (Home) Saputara Monsoon Fes- active Non Resident Gu- holders get special as-
nation Committee to Pradipsinh Jadeja as tival, and the Vibrant jarati Forum. sistance at the gov-
reach out to Gujaratis well as Cabinet minis- Summit. The commit- The state govern- ernment offices.
living across the coun- ters will be the mem- tee will create aware- ment already has one For the help and as-
try and connect them to bers along with office- ness among Gujaratis such platform called sistance to such NRG
Gujarat’s culture and bearers of Gujarati Sa- about these events and Gujarat State Non (Non Resident Indians),
heritage. maj in other states. would invite them to Resident Foundation. the State Government
Chief Minister Vi- Officers on Gujarat join and participate in Members of this foun- has also created an NRI
jay Rupani chaired a Tourism Corporation these festivals and sum- dation enjoy special division within General
meeting on Tuesday Ltd, Industrial Exten- CM Vijay Rupani chaired a meeting on Tuesday where it Minister of State for Home mits, Jadeja said. privilege of having a Administration Divi-
where it was decided sion Bureau, and was decided to connect with Gujaratis living outside state. Pradipsinh Jadeja. It has also been Gujarat Card. NRG’s sion and all support is
to connect with Guja- youth and culture de- planned to create a com- carrying such cards extended to them, when
ratis living outside partment will be spe- said that this coordina- held in other states. under one umbrella, mon platform on which can avail special dis- required. Because of
the state as they seem cial guest on the coor- tion committee will meet This committee will where they will be in- Gujarati Samaj of other counts on staying at such efforts, now NRGs
to be losing touch dination committee. twice in a year, and one make an attempt to formed about the state states will share infor- prestigious hotels, (NRI) have even started
with the Gujarati cul- Minister of State for meeting will be in Guja- bring all Gujaratis liv- government’s various mation about pro- garment stores, jew- participating in state
ture and heritage. Home Pradipsinh Jadeja rat and another would be ing across the nation schemes, and attract grammes they have elry shops and major elections.
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
TALKING POINT AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
02

Much has changed around in the last few years – socially and environmentally. But
there have also been changes in the lifestyles – how people express themselves

MOHIT

MILLENNIAL Giving Alexa

instructions
Bajaj scooter
Twasheupanmarkets opened
in the 90s, there

DECADE
MOHANAN
Tto listen
here was a time
when people used
unprecedented
surge of motorcycles
Landline to Smartphones to their
favorite songs on
in the Indian two-
wheeler space, both

W ith cellphones now accessible to every strata cassettes, using CDs
of the society, the Public Call Office, STD or a and DVDs. And, then
PCO booth that connected virtually every corner of came the iPod, which
the country, is a thing of the past. Also, nowadays, changed the whole
people don’t use a landline connection anymore. way of listening to the
Apart from bus stands and Railway stations, you song. But now the iPod
will hardly see a STD booth or a PCO? Kids who is also disappearing
will born in or after 2020 probably won’t even get to from the market as
know how these things worked. ‘Alexa’ is the one which
is replacing it. All you
want to do is connect
The World of OTT it to the WiFi and then
listen to whatever you
A n over-the-top media service is a stream-
ing media service offered directly to viewers
via the Internet. “Hey, guess what? Last night
want.
from other Indian
companies as well as
Japanese manufactur-
ers. And suddenly the
humble Chetak also
had to contend against
the first wave of vari-
omatic scooters in the
form of the Kinetic
Honda, which offered
all the practical-
ity of the Chetak with
significantly increased
convenience.

I watched The Vampire Diaries, on Netflix. You Orkut to Instagram

said this because this what a casual conversa-
tion sounds like these days with your friends.
Roku, Amazon and Apple TV are becom- Ftask.oronBefore
some, living & breathing
social media is a regular
Facebook, Twitter or
ing the homescreens now which shows
everytthing you like directly to you. Instagram, there was a Google
product that first took the social
media by storm. It was Orkut.
However, Kids who born recently
Laptops not PCs don’t even know about it. The
name evokes a feeling of nostal-
Ethearlier, everyone used used to
have one desktop computer in
house. Now, every member
gia among a few even today.

in the family has a laptop, and BBM to iOS

there is no desktop. No shar-
ing, no awaiting your turn.
And even the desktops at Toriginal
he BlackBerry came
to India in 2004. The
phones were all
work are sleek, fast, and can
go for days without crash- black and targeted at
ing! Communication is not businessmen and execu-
the only thing we do with tives, because they could
laptops, a greater portion be synced to the office
of time is spent streaming mail system. There was
video on our laptops from also BBM – BlackBerry’s
one website or the other. private messaging sys-
Provided you have a fast tem. This feature made
and stable internet con- it wildly popular among
nection, you will have tons the youth. But the Android
of free online TV websites revolution was too much
to watch videos on. for BlackBerry to handle.

Zomato & Swiggy IPL 20-20

Tourhere was a time when
we use to go and collect
parcels for food but now
F ormer ‘Captain Cool,’
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, is
one of India’s most successful
the trend has changed. Order- cricket skippers. He’s the only one
ing food never been easier for to have two World Cup wins to his
us and for the food companies to credit – the 2011 ICC trophy, and
reach their customers. Restaurant the 2007 T20 win. Purists may frown
delivery has grown 20% in the last at the 20/20 format, but it makes
five years; while estimates differ, online Gen Z happy. “It doesn’t take up the
food delivery sales are estimated to grow whole day like a 50-overs match,
as high as $220 billion by 2023 – 40% of which I can’t follow because I have
total restaurant sales. Online grocery may lag other things to do. 20/20 is fast and
behind restaurants in online delivery adoption, exciting,” says student Shubham
but it’s definitely growing. Choudhary.

Video games to Pubg Lovers are App International education

W ith almost each of us pos-
sessing a smartphone,
playing video games is no more re-
stricted to only those with gaming
consoles or gaming computers.
When Candy Crush was released in
2014, it became a hit with children
dating online based cabs
Pextolling
ick up a newspaper and chances
are you will see matrimonial ads
Tnowhefringe
online dating, once a
and stigmatised activity, is
over a $2 billion industry. Over 40
T here was a time when the
Indian roads were full of these
taxis. People have always visualised the
the virtues of a “convent-
educated” bride or groom. Today’s
trendy and popular schools, though,
million Americans have given online dat-
ing a try, and over a third of the American
Cameras to selfies older cities with these yellow and black
cars, known as the Premier Padmini which
often come with an international
tag, are co-educational (unlike most

and adults alike. Now, mobile
game lovers have turned towards
yet another addictive first person
shooter game - PUBG. Almost 400
million people around the world
play Player Unknown’s Battle
Grounds (PUBG).
couples married between 2005 and 2012
met online. India finally seems to be wak-
ing up to online dating applications which
have tripled their user base in the country
over 2018. A Google report released this
year said dating searches are catching up
with matrimony queries.
C
apturing a selfie has now become a common thing.
Today, people are taking selfies while doing eve-
rything (literally or figuratively). With the rise in the
number of smartphones and application filters, it has
become a common activity to pass time in private too.
Self-portrait has evolved into the selfie and the stuff is
so trending that it has got its own day i.e June 21.
were also portrayed in several Bollywood
movies has become a part of history. The
cabs remind of old memories related and
give a sense of nostalgia. People now
book cab by using OLA or UBER choosing
the location from the app installed on your
smartphone.
missionary institutes) and may offer
syllabus and exam patterns that mir-
ror those of the US and UK, though
some also offer the option of CBSE
or ICSE affiliation. The academic
pattern is also similar to their course
structure.

SOMETHING WHICH HAS NOT CHANGED

Legit age of drinking
Y ou vote at 18. But you have to
wait for three more years to raise
a toast at a party.The age for the
legal consumption of alcohol varies
across the different states in India,
and sometimes even varies depending
on the type of alcohol, which can be
confusing. In Delhi, it remains at 25
years, despite ongoing discussions
about lowering it. 25 years is also the
legal drinking age in Punjab, Haryana,
and Chandigarh.
Soaring exam scores
Tconfiheandnesability to apply the knowledge
skills learned within the
of a classroom gives rise to
a bigger question: how well-equipped
our current examination system is for
delivering it? Exams are supposed to
test the intelligence of the students
and work as a sieve for filtering out
the intelligent minds by allotting
marks. This year’s CBSE class 12 top-
pers scored a total of 499 on 500. And
there were two of them!
Love for pani puri
IPaani
t goes by many names such as Pani
Puri, Golgappa, Pakodi, Puchka,
Ke Patashe, water balls and
much more….But what remains con-
stant is its special place in the hearts
of people everywhere around the
globe. There might be little changes
in its textures and mixtures but one
thing that remains constant in all of
them is its delectable taste. There is
no way to get over the cravings for
the same.
Cricket & Bollywood Craving for noodles
W e might be carving a niche for our-
selves in many sports today; the
likes of the Phogat sisters, Sakshi Malik
may have become household names,
but cricket and Bollywood remain
national obsessions. One can’t get over
cricketers and bollywood celebrities as
people have a strong connection with
them. Moreover, many cricketers who
showed their pride on the cricket field
have become weak in the knees in front
of some Bollywood beauties.
S nacking options have never been
restricted in a country as varied
as ours. But somehow the two-
minute noodle captured our hearts.
It’s been comfort food for every
generation! Students enjoy it in their
hostel, people living at hill stations
also enjoy the same. Probably the
only dish you can never get wrong.
Soupy or a bit dry, it always turns
out just right! House party? Bring
out all the Maggi!
 AHMEDABAD l WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020 l Pages 14 l 3.00 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208 l Vol 1 l Issue No. 38

AS THE SUN
WENT DOWN
Boys on Bicycles
pose for pictures in
the backdrop of the
last sunset of 2019 in
Agartala on Tuesday.
—PHOTO BY PTI

NEW YEAR, DAWN & DECISIONS

Sitharaman unveils `102 lakh cr Internet in govt hospitals, SMS to be
infra projects for next five years restored in Kashmir from midnight
Srinagar: Internet cilitate students, schol-
New Delhi: The Union crore of projects are services in govern- arship applicants, trad-
government on Tues- likely to be added to ment hospitals and ers and others. Though
day announced its this pipeline. SMS to all mobile the Jammu and Kash-
plan to invest Rs 102 These projects are phones in the Kash- mir administration al-
lakh crore in infra- on top of Rs 51 lakh mir Valley will be lowed service provid-
structure projects crore spent by the restored from mid- ers to resume machine-
across India. Ad- Centre and the states night of December based messages, sub-
dressing a press con- during the last six 31, news agency PTI On December 10, scribers were not al- First India take a looks
ference in the nation- years, she said adding quoted Jammu and short message service lowed to send any mes- at 20 development
projects across Gujarat
al capital, Finance the new pipeline con- Kashmir official (SMS) was enabled on sages from their mo- that we hope will come
Minister Sitharaman sists of 39 per cent spokesman Rohit some mobile phones in biles, the officials had true by end of 2020
said that the govern- projects each by the Kansal as saying. Kashmir in order to fa- said. Turn on P5 P5
ment’s plan is based Centre and states and
on the findings of a the balance by 22 per
task force constituted cent by private sector. New Delhi: Hours
by the government in
line with the an-
She said the projects
identified are in sectors
after taking charge
as India’s new Chief ARMY
nouncement made by
Prime Minister Nar- Financial Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addresses a press
such as power, railways,
urban irrigation, mo-
of Army Staff, Gen-
eral MM Naravane CHIEF
TAKES
endra Modi in his In- conference regarding the launch of the national infrastructure bility, education and issued a strongly-
dependence Day pipeline, in New Delhi on Tuesday. —PHOTO BY PTI health. worded warning to
speech. The government is Pakistan to desist
Modi had in his Inde-
pendence Day speech
spoken of investing Rs
ture projects after
conducting 70 stake-
holder consultations
executed over the next
five years. The task
force, headed by the
also set to launch a Na-
tional Infrastructure
Pipeline (NIP) Coordi-
from sponsoring ter-
rorism, telling news
agency PTI “we re-
CHARGE
100 lakh crore in infra- in a short period of Economic Affairs Sec- nation Mechanism, serve the right to pre-
structure. Listing out four months. retary, will draw up a comprising the Centre, emptively strike at
the performance of In September this ‘National Infrastruc- states and private sec- sources of terror”.
the NDA government year, the Centre had ture Pipeline’ of Rs 100 tor, for detailed plan- The Army Chief
as the year ends to- constituted a task force lakh crore expected to ning, information dis- said India had “mul-
day, Sitharaman said to identify and prepare come up by 2024-25. semination and moni- tiple options across
the task force identi- a pipeline of infrastruc- The minister said toring implementation (the) Turn on P5
fied the infrastruc- ture projects that can be another Rs 3 lakh of the NIP framework.

Guj evolves ICZM Project to rejuvenate ecology on coastal belt

Haresh Jhala ICZM and the proposal IN FIGURES oped a shoreline man- Based on this study, that minimum effluents
is now waiting for Cen- agement plan. the commission has be- are discharged into the
Gandhinagar: In a tral government ap-  `300 cr is for Ecological DHI used geographic gun to restore man- water in the region; for
major initiative, the proval. earmarked for profiling of information systems groves and flora and this, it is working on a
Gujarat Ecology Com- Highly placed all projects coastal Taluka extensively to prepare fauna. Under its pilot number of action plans
mission has evolved sources from the com- sustainable growth of project in association for installing sewage
 Primary  `6.50 lakh
an Integrated Coastal mission said that the estimate of for the socio- the area. In its sugges- with the forest depart- treatment plants and
Management Project Denmark Hydrologi- entire project economic tions, it has given ment, the commission then reselling treated
(ICZM) to effectively cal Institute of India `1,000 cr upliftment of guidelines on protect- has restored man- water to industries.
meet the challenge of (DHI) was hired to the coastal ing and conserving groves on 16,000 hec- To ensure liveli-
ensuring a balance conduct the study of  `20 lakh community coastal natural re- tares in the Gulf of hood security of the
between the state’s the coastal belt. It per annum sources, coral reef re- Kutch and has under- local community, the
rich ecology along its worked with the Com- generation and on es- taken coral transplan- state through various
1,600 coastline and mission for 18 months tablishing marine tation on some 1,000 sq. schemes is funding
development, while it to conduct a study of aquariums based on m. It also bought flora communities for
plays the role of a India’s coastal area public-private partner- from Lakshadweep Is- building self-help
nodal agency coordi- and natural resourc- ships. It also includes lands and Gulf of Man- groups and also in-
nating with all the es, during which it pollution management nar to restore the Gulf volving them in pro-
stakeholders. also prepared a plan from Jamnagar and of Kutch. tecting and conserv-
The state govern- for mapping land-use livelihood security of The commission is ing coastal natural
ment has approved the capability and devel- coastal communities. also working to ensure resources. Turn on P5
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
State board examinations for classes X and XII to begin March 05
The board also announced its academic calendar for 20-21
First India News
Gandhinagar: The Gu-
jarat state board exams
for Classes X and XII
will begin March 05. In
a meeting held on Tues-
day in Gandhinagar, the
Gujarat Secondary and
Higher Secondary Edu-
cation Board decided to
in
BRIEF
Woman accuses
four of duping her
of Rs 45 lakh
Surat: A woman from
Surat lodged a complaint
with city police alleging
that she was duped of Rs
45 lakh by a VMC health
officer and three other
individuals while seek-
ing their help in the com-
pletion of her daughter’s
visa processes. The ac-
cused, Dr Devesh Patel,
claims that he does not
know the woman and a
false accusation was be-
ing made against him
and the other three peo-
ple. The Surat police
have launched an inves-
tigation into the matter.
Surat police nab
gang of cheats,
includiing minor
Ahmedabad: Surat's
Padesara Police nabbed
four persons, including
a minor, who cheated
people outside banks.
Primary interrogation
revealed that this gang
cheated and looted
many people at 20 differ-
ent places in Gujarat,
Delhi, Maharastra.
Police said they got in-
formation of a gang who
would wait outside
banks and stop people
coming out asking help
to deposit money in the
bank. The moment the
customer agreed they
would show a stack of
fake or blank currency
notes and by the time he
could understand they
would have decamped
with the money he may
have withdrawn.
Fire near Kandla
Port still raging
Gandhidham: A fire
that broke out in a large
methanol storage tank
near Kandla Port in
Kutch district on Mon-
day afternoon is still rag-
ing and people from sur-
rounding areas have
been shifted and other
chemical tanks in the vi-
cinity have been emptied
as a precautionary meas-
ure. Four people, includ-
ing an employee of IMC
Group and three labour-
ers, were killed. —PTI
FROM PG 1
Guj evolves...
Commission has de-
marcated zones, as per
the Coastal Regulation
Zone; no permanent
structures 500 metres
from the shore, but se-
lected activities which
are less harmful to the
biosphere and natural
resources may be car-
ried out in the buffer
zone, located between
500m and 7km.
Internet in...
Kansal said it has
now been decided
that the services will
be restored through-
out the Kashmir Val-
ley. On December 27,
mobile internet ser-
vices were restored in
Kargil district of Lada-
kh, 145 days after they
were snapped in the
former state of Jammu
and Kashmir on August
5 when the Centre re-
voked J&K’s special
status under Article 370
of the Constitution and
take board exams in
March. It has also an-
nounced the academic
calendar for 2020-21,
which will have 246 aca-
demic days.
According to the an-
nouncement, the Class
X board exams will be
held March 05-17, while
for Class XII, exams for
Cong alleges multi-crore
crop insurance scam
GPCC president says it has documents to prove Rs 30,000 crore irregularities
First India News
Ahmedabad: The
State Congress on
Tuesday alleged that a
multi-crore crop insur-
ance scam had been
committed under the
BJP-run government
in Gujarat, comparing
it “a Rafael-like scam”.
The ruling party de-
nies it.
Gujarat Congress
President Amit Chav-
da alleged that the
scam had assumed a
proportion of over Rs
30,000 crore involving
insurance agencies
and government.
He told reporters
that farmers in at least
two villages in Juna-
gadh district were paid
the crop loss claims
that were 80 to 90 per
INAUGURATION
Senior Rajya Sabha member Ahmed Patel on Tuesday inaugurated a crematorium in Tuna
village in Bharuch district’s Valia taluka. This is a backward tribal village.
bifurcated the state
into two Union Territo-
ries of J&K and Lada-
kh.
Phones fell silent on
August 5, when the
Centre revoked Jammu
and Kashmir’s special
status and reorganised
the state into two union
territories — Jammu
and Kashmir, and Lada-
kh. Mobile phones in
Kashmir buzzed back
to life after a gap of 72
days on October 14, but
SMS facilities were
stopped within a few
hours after the Army
claimed terrorists were
using SMS services to
mobilise people.
New Army...
spectrum of conflict...
to respond to any act of
terror sponsored or
abetted by Pakistan”.
General Naravane, who
succeeded General Bip-
in Rawat, also said his
focus would be on en-
suring the Army main-
science and commerce
streams will take place
March 05-21. Practical
exams for science-
stream students of
Class XII will be held
February 14-26.
This time, the educa-
tion board has allotted
29 new examination
centres for Class X and
cent less that what
they were entitled to as
per the guidelines for-
mulated under the
Pradhan Mantri Fasal
Vima Yojana.
“The farmers are
running pillar to post
for the document for
crop insurance. The
insurance companies
tained high standards
of operational readi-
ness to “face any threat
at any time”.
General Manoj
Mukund Naravane,
who was appointed to
his position this morn-
ing, assumes the new
after he was appointed
Vice Chief of the Army
in September. He earli-
er headed the Eastern
Command, which
guards India’s nearly
4,000-kilometre-long
border with China.
“We have evolved a
strategy of resolute pu-
nitive response against
sponsored terrorism. If
Pakistan does not stop
state-sponsored terror-
ism, we reserve right to
pre-emptively strike at
sources of terror,” Gen-
eral Naravane told PTI,
adding, “...multiple op-
tions across spectrum
of conflict to respond to
any act of terror spon-
sored or abetted by Pa-
kistan”.
GUJARAT AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
04
nine new centres for 21 will have 246 days.
—FILE PHOTO
XII. From this academic
It has also asked all year, the government
schools to complete fi- has cancelled the
nal exams for Classes Navratri vacation, so
up to VIII before March education days will in-
05; Class IX and XI crease. However, there
school exams are ex- will still be 8 0 holidays:
pected to be held April a 21-day Diwali vaca-
7-18. tion, 35 days of summer
The official summer vacation, 18 public holi-
vacation will begin May days and six local holi-
04. Academic year 2020- days.
BJP wins taluka
bypolls, Cong routed
First India News in the taluka panchayat by-
polls is a setback for the Con-
Gandhinagar: The gress after recapturing rural
Bharatiya Janata Par- vote bank after almost a dec-
ty has won 25 seats in ade and good performance in
taluka panchayat by-
polls, while the Con-
2017 assembly election. BJP
won three taluka panchayat
1.45 percent and 8.19 gress could manage seats uncontested.
If we take percent of the total only one seat, while in The State Election Com-
into account claim amount, respec- district panchayat by- mission had to cancel by-
the scam in tively, as against 91.54 polls, the latter bagged elections of seven seats of
settling crop insur- percent and 90.43 per- two seats against one taluka panchayat on Gujarat
ance claims in Gu- cent (of the claim of BJP. High Court’s order.
amount) they were en- Chief Minister Vi-
jarat in last five titled to (to be paid by jay Rupani, in a twit-
years, it will crop insurance compa- ter message, called it a
emerge the biggest nies). harbinger of things to
such scam in the “If we take into ac- come in the forthcom-
history of the state. count the scam in set- ing taluka and district
tling the crop insur- panchayat elections.
—Amit Chavda,
GPCC chief ance claims in Gujarat The State Election
since the last five Commission had held
years, then it will come elections for three dis-
who are giving amount said Chavda. out as the biggest such trict panchayat seats
to farmers is merely a They said the docu- scam in the history of and 26 of taluka, for
the state,” Chavda al-
mockery. As per the ments for the last fi- which voting took
documents we got hold nancial year were pro- leged. place last Sunday.
of from two villages, cessed at the local level He said even farm- Votes were counted on
which prove that the in Amargadh and Dev- ers have realized that Tuesday. The results
farmers were paid gadh villages in Mend- it was a “multi-crore
only a fraction when arda taluka in Juna- scam” being perpetu-
they actually deserved gadh district. ated by crop insurance
to be paid 90 percent of “Farmers in the two companies.
the number of claims,” villages were paid only
Trader held in
Rs900 cr racket
First India News GST Act. He said Chau-
han was running 36
Ahmedabad : Gujarat firms but never made
GST Department has delivery of any goods
arrested a trader in as all the bills generat-
connection with get- ed were fake. He had
ting credit on fake bills generated Rs 900 crore
of Rs 900 crore. The ac- worth fake bills and
cused was running against that claimed
some 36 trade firms, Rs 100 crore from the
but all on paper. state government.
GST officials told re- During investiga-
porters that on Mon- tions of one Alpha En-
day his team arrested terprise, Ahmedabad,
trader Paresh Nathalal 36 firms were found
Chauhan under sec- operating from one lo-
tion 69 of the Gujarat cation.
“As far as our neigh- leaders to unite against waiting to cross over
bour is concerned they state-sponsored terror- but we are fully pre-
are trying to use terror- ism. pared to meet this
ism as tool of state pol- Pakistan has also threat,” he added, also
icy, as a way of carry- been cautioned by the saying India would con-
ing out proxy war global community for tinue to improve capac-
against us. This can’t failing to act against ity along the China bor-
last long. You can’t fool terror funding; in Octo- der. The Army Chief
all the people all the ber the Financial Ac- also discussed some of
time,” he told news tion Task Force (FATF), his plans for the future,
agency ANI, describing a global terror funding telling news agency
terrorism as “world- watchdog, retained Pa- ANI that he would work
wide problem” but one kistan in a “grey list” on procuring “better
India had been at the of countries whose do- equipment, good tac-
receiving end “for a mestic laws are consid- tics and strategy” to
long time”. ered too weak to tackle help the armed forces
“It is only now that challenges of money maintain operational
the entire world and laundering and terror- readiness.
many countries affect- ism financing. General Naravane’s
ed with terrorism (that “(The) Pakistan Ar- comments echo those
they) are coming to re- my’s all-out efforts to made by his predeces-
alise what a threat it deflect attention from sor, General Bipin
is,” he claimed. state-sponsored terror- Rawat. In October Gen-
India has repeatedly ism have been a fail- eral Rawat, who was
blamed Pakistan for ure,” the Army Chief yesterday appointed as
carrying out terrorist said, adding that the the country’s first
attacks in the country country’s “proxy war Chief of Defence Staff,
and asked it to stop sup- design” had been hit by described Pakistan-oc-
porting terror outfits “elimination of terror- cupied Kashmir (PoK)
operating from its soil. ists and decimation of as a “terrorist-con-
Earlier this year Prime terror networks”. trolled country or a ter-
Minister Narendra “...aware terrorists rorist-controlled part
Modi called on world in various launch pads of Pakistan”.
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
A VERY HOPEFUL 2020
AS WE ENTER A NEW DECADE, FIRST INDIA TAKE A LOOK AT 20 DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ACROSS
GUJARAT THAT WE HOPE WILL COME TO FRUITION BY THE END OF THIS YEAR
More fun coming soon
1 1
Bio-diversity
park: A bio-
diversity park in
Sabarmati Riverfront,
with more than 1.5 lakh
trees of 128 different
species will be
dedicated to the public
this month. As many as
60 different birds
species have been
recorded here. The park
include endangered
indigenous trees
species and will
resemble a dense forest.
The area has been
planned as a silent zone
where people can do
yoga and meditation.
2
Sabarmati
foot-over
bridge: An
iconic 300m-long foot-
over bridge across the
Sabarmati river will be
located between Sardar
Bridge and Ellis Bridge.
Its width will be
between 10m and 14m,
with approaches from
4
the lower walkway.
Built of steel and glass,
the bridge has been
built at a cost of Rs 74
crore. The bridge will be
open for the public this
year.
Smart City levels up
1 3
Metro project:
Construction for
the first phase of
the 40.35km metro rail
network will begin in
June. Phase one will
cover 21.61km between
Sarthana and Dream
City, with 14 elevated
stations and 18.74km
between Bhesan and
Saroli, with 18 elevated
stations. In February
2019, the Central
government approved
about Rs12,000 crore for
the project, which is
expected to be completed
in five years.
2 4
Barrage on
Tapi river: The
weir-cum-
causeway is set to be built
at a cost of Rs585 crore
near Govardhan Haveli on
Athwa-Dumas road and at
D Villa on Adajan-Pal
road. It will be bigger than
the one at Singanpore and
have 60 gates, each of
which will be 17m high
and 5m wide against the
16 gates at the Singanpore
weir. The construction
cost will be around Rs385
crore whereas Rs200 crore
will go towards acquiring
land.
GUJARAT AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
05
—PHOTO BY NANDAN DAVE
AHMEDABAD VADODARA
It’s all about water
3
Flyovers and Metered
bridges: The water supply:
city is set to get a The civic body
total of 11 flyovers and plans to meet its target
bridges in 2020, with a of providing metered
planned investment of water supply to the
Rs643 crore. Three over- whole city in 2020. VMC
bridges will cost the has already covered 25%
Vadodara Municipal of the city under the
Corporation (VMC) Rs43 plan, which was
crore. In addition, there launched in 2013. The
will also be two railway civic body supplies 250-
over-bridges at an 270 MLD of water to
investment of Rs75 consumers, and charges
crore, and six flyovers at them between Rs 6 and
an estimated cost of Rs Rs 18 per kilolitre
525 crore. depending on their daily
2
usage. The project cost
Sewage
3 5
Rs137 crore.
World’s largest stadium: The new Sports hubs: treatment
4
Sardar Patel stadium, built at a cost of Rs700 The city has plant: Vadodara Tap water
crore and has a seating capacity of 1,10,000 planned many has is spread over 159 connectivity:
people, will be inaugurated this year. The first match sports facilities with sq. km and has a
With 94% of all
to be played in the new stadium is likely to be an the largest one likely to population of 19 lakh.
Currently, 95% of the rural homes in the dis-
exhibition match between Asia XI and World XI in come up in the western
city is covered with trict now connected to
March 2020, subject to the International Cricket part of the city,
5
drainage facility with taps, Vadodara plans to
Council's (ICC) approval. The new stadium at Motera sprawling over 45,000 Vishwamitri development plan:
278 MLD sewerage flow. give even more people
will surpass the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which sq. m. The complex will Vadodara’s civic body has big plans for the
This year, the city will tap-water connectivity.
has a capacity of 1,00,000 people, to become the be a part of the Vishwamitri. As we have reported before, the
get two new sewage As reported previously,
biggest cricket ground in the world. Sabarmati Riverfront city plans to develop the stretch from Pavagadh to
treatment plants, Collector Shalini Agar-
and will include the Gulf of Khambhat and has announced that it
bringing the total up to wal plans to cover 100%
professional coaches will invite bids from international firms to ensure a
51 such plants. of all rural houses in a
Lake development: About 45 city lakes will be for training. A sports world-class development plan. The primary estimate year or two. The gov-
beautified along the lines of Kankaria and Vastrapur complex planned to Rajivnagar Sewage has been slated at Rs1,000 crore. Not only will the
Treatment Plant will ernment supplies 40 li-
lakes. With only 22 of the 122 lakes in the city having come up behind NID project protect the city from frequent flooding, it will
have 106 MLD capacity, tres of water per per-
been developed so far, the civic body has prepared a proposal will have four cricket also give farmers along the river belt enough water
while Atladara Sewage son per day (LPPPD)
to the Ministry of Environment and Forest, National Plan pitches, five tennis to switch to organic crops, leading to better
Treatment Plant will and aims to supply 100
for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-system for financial aid. courts, and a skating agricultural incomes in the region.
have 66 MLD capacity. LPPPD.
The total project is likely to cost around Rs452 crore. rink.
SURAT RAJKOT
Metropolis in making
1 3
Administrative Hirasar Atal lake: Fun-
building: The International loving Rajkotians
work of Airport : The will have a great
administrative building spanking new airport is new place to hang out
is expected to start from expected to change the once the development of
this year. The design of face of Rajkot and Atal Lake is completed.
the project has been Saurashtra. Planned at an To be built at an
finalized this year. INI estimated cost of Rs1,405 estimated cost of around
design Ahmedabad has crores, across roughly Rs135 crore, it will one of
been selected as the 1,025 hectares, most of the the major attractions in
consultant of the land for this project has the city with gardens and
project. The total already been acquired an amusement park
expense of the project and handed over to around the lake. The
has been estimated to be Airport Authority of infrastructure
around 480cr rupees. India. Once complete, the development component
The whole building will airport is expected to be of Rs548 crore will
be made on eco-friendly larger than Ahmedabad’s include road network, a
and energy-efficient Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel BRTS corridor, bus stops
theme. International Airport. and smart lighting.
2 4
Diamond Raiya Smart The Greenfield
bourse: The City: Having project: The
city’s diamond been picked by the city will soon
bourse, slated to be the United Nations for its deploy a district cooling
largest in the world, feasibility to implement a system, eliminating the
5 5
City Square: The new plan envisages a will finally be ready district cooling system, AIIMS: Rajkot is soon expected to be a need for air conditioners
transport hub and business district in this year. Construction the city is set for a big major medical hub not only for people of and other equipment that
33,700 sq. m of land at an estimated cost of for the bourse began in leap. The Smart City Saurashtra but all of Gujarat with the emit greenhouse gases.
Rs 348 crore. Phase One would see the October 2017 in Dream Development Limited establishment of All India Institute of Medical The district cooling
development of around 12,100 sq. m, while 21,600 City. The project, board recently approved Sciences (AIIMS). Being built on around 200 acres system will be
sq. m will be developed in Phase Two. The land worth Rs 2,400 crore is 684 cr for infrastructure of land at Khandheri village, the state-of-the-art implemented across 930
for the first phase is available with the civic body, being constructed on 66 development in Raiya super speciality building will take some time to be acres, at a project cost of
while the one for the second phase development is lakh square feet land, smart city in Rajkot. The completed, but admissions will start for 50 MBBS Rs1,600 crore. Under the
yet to be allotted by the state government. and will eventually be money will be used for a seats in the old medical college premise or at any project, the Rajkot
Currently, officials are making some changes in 11 iconic towers, each Conversion Management private college campus later this year. “Bhoomi Municipal Corporation
the financial model in association with a 11 storeys high, Centre, a sports arena, an pujan is expected in February,” the nodal officer (RMC) has also proposed
consultant who has been appointed specially for which will house more Integrated Command and and medical superintendent at Rajkot Civil Hospital to build a convention
this amusement hub. than 4,500 diamond Control Centre and other told First India. centre across 40,000 sq m
offices. social infra projects. area and a five-star hotel.
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
PERSPECTIVE AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
06

MESSAGE FROM SAI: COMPASSION

& KINDNESS FOR ONE AND ALL
Sai Baba often told his devotees, ‘Never turn away anybody from your door, be it a human being or animal’

ANITA HADA

I
look back at 2019, especially the last
few weeks, the teachings of Sai Baba
of Shirdi become all the more rele-
vant. We have seen a divide that
threatens the very fabric of the na-
tion and humanity and this breach
must be filled with sharing, love, and
kindness immediately, by whatsoev-
er means. It is time to remember that
we all are human beings first and
foremost and turn towards those who
teach this cardinal and eternal truth.
The followers of Sai Baba consti-
tute a family spread across the world,
a family whose members are bonded
together with a feeling of brother-
hood, humanity, and faith irrespec-
tive of religion, caste or colour.
Sai Baba of Shirdi has been a
guiding force who generates su-
preme faith and confidence among
his devotees looking for salvation
and in quest of coming out of the
drudgery of living. For believers,
he is a divine mother who has a love
for each one who seeks him. With
his mission of making people con-
scious about the divine within and Sai Baba of Shirdi has
transcending the limits of the mor- been a guiding force who
tal body, his teachings are guiding generates supreme faith
his devotees to the path of salva-
tion. People who follow his teach- and confidence among
ings are indeed blessed. his devotees looking for
Among the teachings of Sai Baba salvation and in quest of
of Shirdi, there are the cardinal coming out of the
principles of Sai Path called ‘Shrad-
dha’ and ‘Saburi’. Sai Baba looks for drudgery of living
these two qualities in his devotees.
‘Shraddha’ is a Sanskrit word,
which is beyond just faith and is a
combination of faith, love, and rev- ing of life, he would refer to Udi and
Sai Baba would erence. Such faith or trust is gener- taught that like Udi all the visible
demand ated out of conviction, which may phenomena in the world are tran-
‘Dakshina’ or not be the result of any rational be- sient. Through this example, Sai
alms from those lief or intellectual wisdom, but a Baba wished to make his devotees
who visited spiritual inspiration. According to understand the sense of discrimi-
Sai Baba of Shirdi, steadfast love in nation between the unreal and the
him. This
God is the gateway to eternity. Ba- real. Udi taught devotees discrimi-
explained the ba’s teachings, both direct and indi- nation or Vivek.
sense of non- rect explicate the significance of goal. This quality must be ingrained tees not to make austerity as an end Guru was the profound base of the Sai Baba would demand ‘Dakshi-
attachment to ‘Shraddha’. Baba reiterates the spir- in a seeker from day one, least he itself, lest they should indulge in path of devotion. Pointing to his na’ or alms from those who visited
worldly things. itual guidance of Shri Krishna to loses his stride and leaves the path physical mortification. Himself an physical frame, “This body is my him. This explained the sense of
Hence Arjun - “Whosoever offers to me halfway. For Sai Baba, it was not the epitome of compassion and love, Sai house. I am not here. My Guru (Mas- non-attachment to worldly things.
Dakshina with love or devotion, a leaf, a flower, purity of the body but inner purity Baba taught compassion among his ter) has taken me away”. He asked Hence Dakshina taught the devotees
a fruit or water, that offering of pure that mattered. No amount of physi- disciples. Baba often told His devo- for complete surrender to the ‘Guru’. non-attachment or Vairagya. As 2020
taught the love is readily accepted by me”. cal and external cleansing would tees, ‘Never turn away anybody Udi or the sacred ash was pro- dawns, let us strive to live each day
devotees non- ‘Saburi’; means patience and per- serve any purpose if the man re- from your door, be it a human being duced from the perpetual fire called of this year with love and compas-
attachment or severance. Saburi is a quality need- mained impure in mind and heart. or animal’.Sai Baba put Guru on a ‘dhuni’ lit by Sai Baba in Dwarka- sion in our hearts for all beings, ir-
Vairagya ed throughout the path to reach the Therefore, Baba cautioned his devo- high pedestal of reverence. For Him mai at Shirdi. Explaining the mean- respective of religion, caste or creed.

BJP blames Cong for agitation over CAA, NRC

R
attled with on-
going aggres-
sive and relent-
less agitation
all over the
country against conten-
tious issues of new Citizen
Amendment Act, National
Register of Citizens and
National Population Regis-
ter, the BJP is trying to
throw the ball in Con-
gress’s court accusing the
principle opposition party
of misleading minorities.
The attempt by some top
leaders of the ruling party
to dub popular unrest that
has now turned into almost
full-fledged people’s move-
ment as it has fanned out
from big cities to smaller
towns and localities, as one
sponsored by the Congress
and Left parties is aimed at
denouncing public anger.
The ongoing movement
against CAA, NRC and
NPR cannot be called a
movement backed by cer-
tain political parties par-
ticularly those which are in
opposition because all con-
tentious issues involved,
touch the much wider seg-
ments of Indian society.
Initially, started as a stu-
dent movement in the af-
termath of passage of CAA
by the Parliament, it has
now turned in to a people’s
movement as people have
started rising above their
caste, religion and political
considerations are joining
BJP is trying to
throw the ball in
Congress’s court
accusing the
principle
opposition party
of misleading
minorities
it because they are appre-
hensive of being forced
again to stand in a long
queue as it happened dur-
ing the demonetization
days to prove their creden-
tials as citizens.
The BJP has charged the
Congress for being irre-
sponsible. The party lead-
ers at the same time also
made efforts to separate
CAA from NRC claiming
they are not interlinked. It
proves the opposition has
scored over the ruling par-
ty on this count.
Why the agitation is con-
tinuing and gaining mo-
mentum despite clarifica- senior government minis- is imperative for the Con- taken to task at once. Hope
ters toe Prime Minister’ gress to cash in on any is- good senses prevail upon
TOP TWEET
tion by none other than
Prime Minister Narendra line whereas others insist sue that has the potential senior members on the Dharmendra Pradhan
Modi saying the govern- on the implementation of of embarrassing the gov- council of ministers to @dpradhanbjp
Inaugurated a public library at
ment has not held any dis- all three contentious legis- ernment and putting it on initiate negotiations with
Mahodadhi Mahaveer Club in Puri
cussion on the issues is lation, on the other. the matt. If Congress and agitators to bring the situ- today. Constructed by @IndianOilcl
because there is an ele- Before accusing others, the other opposition par- ation to normalcy and set-
ment of utter confusion it is better for the ruling ties are found to be in- tle down the issues that
under it’s CSR Initiative, this public
library will help quench the thirst
that exists within the gov- party to set its house in volved in fuelling violence hit larger sections of soci- of knowledge in our youth and
ernment and the ruling order because as a politi- to the agitation, they ety. Confrontation is no children and further engage them in
party. On the one hand, few cal party in opposition it should be condemned and alternative. reading and learning.

Vol 1  Issue No. 38  RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208. Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Bhaskar Printing Planet Survey No.148P, Changodar-Bavla Highway, Tal. Sanand, Dist. Ahmedabad.
Published at D/302 3rd Floor Plot No. 35 Titanium Square, Scheme No. 2, Thaltej Taluka, Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad. Editor: Jagdeesh Chandra, Resident Editor : Darshan Desai, Managing Editor: Robin Roy, responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
INDIA
AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
07

Army ready for challenges: CDS POWER Gallery

S S DESHWAL IS ALSO DG, CRPF
Grateful for all the
New Delhi: The Indian He also extended new
Army is better pre- year wishes to the sol- S S Deshwal, DG ITBP, has been assigned an
pared to take on the diers and their families. additional charge of Central Reserve Police
challenges at Pakistan
and China borders, said
India's first Chief of the
General Rawat ex-
pressed confidence that
General MM Narawane,
support:Gen Rawat Force (CRPF). He is a 1984 batch IPS officer
of Haryana cadre.

Defence Staff (CDS) Bi- who will be stepping in FOUR 1995 IAS OFFICERS BECOME
pin Rawat before demit- his shoes, will take the PRINCIPAL SECRETARY IN ODISHA
ting office of the Army Indian Army to new
Four IAS officers of 1995 batch have been
chief on Tuesday. heights. "I also wish to
promoted to the grade of Principal Secretary
Answering a ques- convey my best wishes
in Odisha. They are: Hemant Sharma, Bish-
tion by ANI whether the to General Narawane
nupada Sethi, Chithra Arumugam and Sushil
Army became better who will be assuming
equipped to tackle chal- office as 28th chief of
Kumar Lohani.
lenges on the Pakistan Army staff. We are con- N PRATEEP KUMAR APPOINTED AS HEAD
and China borders un- fident that he will,
OF FORESTS IN ANDHRA PRADESH
der his three years ten- through his compe-
ure, he said: "Yes, they Chief of Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat making his final remarks tence and professional- N Prateep Kumar, Vice Chairman & Managing
are better prepared." as COAS in the visitors’ book at the National War Memorial. ism, take this army to CDS Gen Bipin Rawat paying tribute at the National War Memorial Director, AP Forest Development Corporation,
General Rawat said that even new heights," he in New Delhi on Tuesday. —PHOTO BY ANI has been appointed as Principal Chief Con-
he is focused on restruc- TRIBUTES AT NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL said and complimented servator of Forests (Head of Forest Force),
turing and modernis- Narawane's wife who New Delhi: Outgoing facing the country, he Andhra Pradesh. He is a 1986 batch IFS
ing the Army. will be taking charge as Army Chief Gen Bipin said: "Yes, we are bet- officer of AP cadre.
"My focus was on the mantle of president Rawat on Tuesday ter prepared."
army restructuring, of army wifes welfare thanked all the army Gen Rawat who inter- VIPIN KUMAR APPOINTED AS GM
weapon system mod- association. personnel and their acted with media per- (LEGAL), NHAI
ernisation, and non- "The army will con- families for extending sons after receiving the
Vipin Kumar, Director of Lok Sabha Secretar-
contact warfare," he tinue to achieve greater full support to him dur- Guard of Honour in the
told reporters here. heights under their ing his three-year ten- forecourt of the South
iat, has been appointed as General Manager
During General Raw- leadership," he added. ure at the helm of the Block also paid respects
(Legal) in National Highways Authority of
at's tenure as the Army General Rawat took 1.3 million-strong force. to the fallen soldiers at
India (NHAI).
chief, artillery gun sys- over as Army chief on After a farewell the National War Me- SOMESH KUMAR IS NEW CHIEF
tems M777 American December 31, 2016, after Guard of Honour, Gen morial on a chilly win-
Ultra Light Howitzers civilians and their fam- and performed duty in superseding two offic- Rawat also exuded con- ter day. Gen Rawat also
SECRETARY, TELANGANA
and K-9 Vajra, and Sig ilies" for their support. keeping traditions of ers senior to him. fidence that the Army congratulated Gen Nar- A 1989 batch IAS officer, Somesh Kumar has
Sauer assault rifles were "As I demit the office armed forces," he said. General Rawat will will rise to greater avane who on Tuesday been appointed as new Chief Secretary of
inducted in the force. of the chief of Army He said: "I thank de- take charge as the first heights under the new took charge as the 28th Telangana.
Speaking to reporters staff, I wish to convey fence civilians, their Chief of the Defence Chief of Army Staff Chief of Army Staff.
after paying tribute to my gratitude and com- families, veterans and Staff (CDS), a post cre- Gen Manoj Mukund "I congratulate Gen ANIL KUMAR KHACHI APPOINTED AS NEW
martyrs at the National pliment our soldiers, the their families who have ated to make it the Naravane. Naravane on being the CHIEF SECRETARY, HIMACHAL PRADESH
War Memorial, General ranks and files of Indian supported us, and me in main point of contact When asked whether next Army Chief. He is
Anil Kumar Khachi has been appointed as Chief
Rawat expressed grati- Army who have stood particular, in helping me for the government for the Army is better pre- a very competent and
Secretary of Himachal Pradesh. He is a 1986
tude to soldiers and steadfast under chal- perform my duties in an dealing with defence pared now to face the capable officer,” he
complimented "defence lenging circumstances honourable manner." forces' issues. —ANI said. —PTI
batch IAS officer of Himachal Pradesh cadre.
security challenges
YOGENDRA TRIPATHY IS ALSO
CAA ROW SECRETARY, CULTURE

RaGa is the biggest fool, does not Akhilesh Yadav tears into
Centre over CAA, NRC
Yogendra Tripathy has been assigned an addi-
tional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Culture.

know what CAA is, says BJP MP

DR AJAY KUMAR GETS ADDITIONAL
Lucknow: Samajwadi CHARGE OF DEFENCE PRODUCTION
Party leader Akhilesh
Dr Ajay Kumar has been assigned an additional
Kaithal: Terming Ra- a 'biggest fool' among Yadav slammed the
charge of Secretary, Department of Defence
hul Gandhi the "biggest fools, then I think it is Central government
Production.
fool", BJP MP from Rahul Gandhi, because over the new citizen-
Kurukshetra, Nayab he does not know what ship law and said: “the IS CHANDRA NOT GETTING EXTENSION ?
Singh, said that the the CAA is, and who it whole country is un-
Congress leader has no is meant for)," Singh happy with it and are Uncertainty prevails whether Subhash Chan-
idea what the Citizen- said. The newly-enacted protesting against it.” dra, Secretary, Defence Protection will get
ship (Amendment) Act law, CAA, grants citi- “They want to give the details which they extension. He is scheduled to retire on Dec31.
is all about. zenship to Hindus, citizenship on the basis want for the NPR are His farewell party has reportedly been arranged
Addressing media, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, of religion. They do not there in everyone’s in the Ministry. Is this the indication ? He is a
Singh said that the Con- Buddhists & Christians want Muslims to get Aadhaar card. What 1986 batch IAS officer of Karnataka cadre
gress party has misled fleeing religious perse- citizenship. People in has happened to that
the country regarding cution in Pakistan, Assam are also unhap- data? What new infor-
NIA SET FOR BIG RESHUFFLE
this Act. He said, "Agar Afghanistan & Bangla- py,” he added. The for- mation are they trying The Premier investigating agency NIA is set
hum kahein ki murk- mujhe lagta hai ki Ra- yahi maloom nahi hai desh & who came to mer UP CM also ex- to get from the NPR? My to see a major reshuffle among IG level IPS
hon mein sabse bada hul Gandhi hain, kyun- ki CAA hai kya, kiske India on or before Dec pressed concerns over party is against the officers. After departure of GP Singh to his
agar murkh koi hai toh ki Rahul Gandhi ko liye hai (If there exists 31, 2014. —ANI the NPR and said, “all CAA and NPR .”—ANI cadre, one post IG is vacant. He was looking
after Intelligence & Operation.

Kerala Assembly passes BJP expected to ‘PFI should be banned’ Protest held RAJPUT GETS EXTENSION IN ED
Rahul Rajput JD, ED, has been given extension.
resolution against CAA brief foreign against CAA in He is an IRS - IT officer and posted in Delhi
New Delhi: The Kerala the only dissenting media on CAA Chennai Zonal office. He is from IRS(C&CE) service.
Assembly passed a reso- voice in the one-day spe- New Delhi: BJP is ex- Chennai: People from MAJOR IAS AND IPS RESHUFFLE IN
lution demanding cial session. pected to reach out to different organisations JHARKHAND ONLY AFTER MARCH ?
scrapping of the Citi- While presenting the foreign press & dispel held a protest rally
zenship Amendment resolution,CM Vijayan misgivings about the against the newly-en- Major IAS and IPS reshuffle in Jharkhand is
Act, which was said the CAA is law that has been duly acted Citizenship expected to take place only after March. Only
cleared by both against the “sec- passed in the recently (Amendment) Act minor changes in a week or two.
Houses of Parlia- ular” outlook concluded winter ses- (CAA) in Chennai.
ment last month. and fabric of the sion of Parliament. Amid heavy security,
AJAY GOYAL RETURNS TO PARENT CADRE
The ruling country and Within a week’s time, a Lucknow: Uttar involvement in the vio- the protestors also Ajay Goyal, Joint Secretary, Department of
CPI(M)-LDF and would lead to re- series of meetings have Pradesh DGP OP Singh lent protests against the raised slogans against Legal Affairs, has been accorded prema-
the Opposition ligion-based dis- taken place in party wrote a letter to the CAA that took place on the central govern- ture repatriation to his parent cadre on the
Congress-led UDF sup- crimination in granting headquarters to dele- Ministry of Home Af- Dec 19.’ “PFI should be ment. This comes amid grounds of availing promotion. He is a 1990
ported the resolution citizenship. It has dent- gate the party posthold- fairs, requesting to ‘im- banned. We have writ- widespread protests batch IRS-IT officer.
while BJP’s lone MLA ed India’s image in ers’ responsibilities to pose a ban on Popular ten to Home Ministry. across the country
and former Union min- front of the interna- reach out to masses and Front of India as inves- We expect investigation against the newly-en- NINE IAS OFFICERS PROMOTED TO
ister O Rajagopal’s was tional community. clear air about the law. tigations found PFI’s on the same,” he said. acted citizenship law. SENIOR TIME SCALE IN MP
As many as nine IAS officers of 2016 batch
have been promoted to Senior Time Scale in
Madhya Pradesh. They are: Ashish Tiwari,
Siddharth Jain, Anshul Gupta, Jayati Singh,
Swapnil G Wankhede, Kirodi Lal Meena, Gaurav
Bainal, Harendra Narayan and Misha Singh.

PRAGYA SINGH THAKUR SPEWS
VENOM: CHHATTISGARH CM
Raipur: Chhattisgarh CM
Bhupesh Baghel brewed
political controversy by
targeting BJP MP Pragya
Singh Thakur. While
addressing the media he
said, "I do not consider
Pragya Singh Thakur a
sadhvi. Whenever she
opens her mouth, she
spews venom. This is
not a characteristic of a
true sadhvi." Baghel also
VEHICLE LIFTING GANG MEMBERS 161 IRS-CUSTOMS OFFICERS PROMOTED
MoS HOME NITYANAND RAI HELD, 8 STOLEN CARS SEIZED TO JOINT COMMISSIONER GRADE
backed Congress general SPENDS NIGHT WITH BSF TROOPS Bhubaneswar: Odisha registered in the matter As many as 161 officers of Indian Revenue
secretary Priyanka Gandhi Jalpaiguri: Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Police have arrested two after the accused duped Service of Customs have been promoted to the
Vadra over her 'Saffron' Rai, spent a night with security personnel at the members of an alleged a sub-inspector from grade of Joint Commissioner of Customs &
remark against UP CM Fulbari BSF post at India-Bangladesh border on interstate four-wheeler Kandagiri police station. Central Excise.
and said, "Yogi Adityanath Monday. During his visit to the border outpost, lifting gang and seized “Chinmaya Sahu claimed
wears saffron color but the minister interacted with the troops in a bid eight stolen vehicles from to be a used car dealer 180 IRS-CUSTOMS OFFICERS PROMOTED
has not renounced the to understand the challenges they face. He also their possession in Bhu- and offered to sell an SUV TO DEPUTY COMMISSIONER GRADE
world, instead he has visited the border near the fencing where he was baneshwar. The arrested at Rs 14 lakh and showed
stuck to his chair. Caste persons identified as him (the sub-inspector) As many as 180 officers of Indian Revenue
briefed about the security challenges by senior
divisions are visible in Chinmaya Sahu and Gopal the SUV. But after taking Service of Customs and Central Exicse have
BSF officers. At the outpost, a senior officer
Uttar Pradesh today, they briefed him about how the force secures the bor- Mohanty were produced Rs 8 lakh in advance, he been promoted to the grade of Deputy Com-
are being promoted by der against adversaries, infiltrators & smugglers. before a court. Police did not hand over the car missioner of Customs and Central Excise.
Yogi Adityanath." said that the case was or returned the money.”
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
INDIA
AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
08

IN THE COURTYARD

Seemapuri case transferred to SIT

Seelampur protest:
New Delhi: The Delhi
Police on Tuesday
transferred the case ED attaches Pixion
pertaining to violence
in Delhi’s Seemapuri
area to a special investi-
Media in bank fraud Bail to two accused
gating team (SIT). New Delhi: The En- vestigation under New Delhi: A Delhi der copy of their bail to
A Delhi court had ar- forcement Directo- PMLA for fraud, court on Tuesday grant- be handed over to the
rested eleven people in rate (ED) has attached cheating and causing ed interim bail to two superintendent of Del-
connection with the properties worth Rs wrongful loss to pub- accused who were ar- hi’s Ram Manohar Lo-
protests against the Cit- 127.74 crore of Pixion lic sector banks to the rested after a protest hia Hospital.
izenship (Amendment) Media Pvt Ltd and its tune of about Rs 2600 against the citizenship The counsel repre-
Act and the National group companies in a crore, an official re- law turned violent in senting one of the ac-
Register of Citizens Rs 2600 crore bank lease said. the Seelampur area ear- cused named Ali sought
(NRC) in the Seemapuri fraud case. The FIRs were filed lier this month. bail on the grounds
area of North East Del- Two commercial against the compa- Session Judge that his client has thy-
hi in mid-December. plots, nine commer- nies and its directors Brijesh Garg granted roid and gets regular
They were then sent to cial floors of group PK Tewari, Anand bail for three weeks on fits in the jail.
14-days judicial custody companies in Mum- Tewari, Abhishiek medical grounds and The court asked how
with a right to avail the Arrested 11 people were sent to 14-days judicial custody with a right to avail bail on Dec 21. —File photo bai, Chennai, Noida, Tewari and others un- asked the accused - Ali the other accused sus-
bail on December 21. and Kolkata have der relevant sections and Moinuddin - to pay tained injuries to
The court slated the on the next date of were made on the basis akrishna told the court been attached in con- of IPC. Rs 20,000 with a surety which the defence
matter for January 6 for hearing. of the reports of the test that there is no evi- nection with an ongo- During the course of like amount. The counsel said that he re-
hearing on their bail One of the accused submitted yesterday fol- dence to ascertain that ing probe under the of the investigation, court will now hear the ceived them during a
petition. Assistant Ses- claimed to be a juvenile lowing which it said his clients had the in- Prevention of Money it was revealed that matter on January 21. lathi-charge.
sions Judge Gurdeep but after the ossifica- that his bail plea will be tention to kill anyone Laundering Act. the Tewaris had It has further directed The court expressed
Singh also sought medi- tion test was conducted, heard on the basis of and hence cannot be Based on seven FIRs fraudulently availed the medical examina- apprehensions over it
cal reports of injured the court found him not merit on January 6. charged with Section and a CBI loans to the tune of Rs tion of the duo to be and said that it could
policemen from the In- to be a minor. On December 28, sen- 307 of the Indian Penal chargesheet, the ED 2600 crore from vari- conducted. Inter alia, not be because of lathi-
vestigation Officer (IO) The observations ior advocate Nitya Ram- Code (IPC). —ANI had initiated the in- ous banks. —ANI the court asked the or- charge. —ANI

‘Priyanka Gandhi should change Sonia to regularly review work All is well, says Nitish Kumar
of new Cong Maha ministers
her name to Feroze Priyanka’ on BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar
Patna: Amid the war of Bihar Chief
ASHOK CHAVAN CONDEMNS REMARK
words between Bihar’s Minister

M
Deputy Chief Minister Nitish Kumar
Sushil Kumar Modi and with cabinet
JD(U) vice president minister Nand
Prashant Kishor, state Kishore Yadav
Chief Minister Nitish and MLA Nitin
Kumar on Tuesday clar- Naveen after
New Delhi: Hitting Congress President Sonia Gandhi with the new Congress ified that “all was well” paying tributes
back at Congress gen- Ministers in Maharashtra Cabinet in New Delhi on Tuesday. between the two alliance to former BJP
eral secretary Priyan- partners in the state. leader Navin
ka Gandhi Vadra for New Delhi: Congress harashtra government “All is well, there is no Kishore Sinha
cornering Uttar interim president Sonia also met Rahul Gandhi. problem,” Kumar told on his death
Pradesh Chief Minis- Gandhi called a meeting “High Command will be ANI in response to a anniversary
ter Yogi Adityanath of all the newly appoint- reviewing the work of question on the BJP- in Patna on
over Saffron remark, ed Congress ministers all the ministers. It is JDU alliance in Bihar. Tuesday.
Union Minister Sadhvi fron because she is a against criminals. in the Maharashtra gov- important to review. The remarks by JD(U)
Niranjan Jyoti on Tues- fake Gandhi. She should “Priyanka has a prob- ernment and instructed The leaders who have Chief comes after his Kishor for his state- Chief Minister Nitish
day said that a “fake remove Gandhi from lem with Adityanth as that their work will be been assigned the minis- party’s senior leader ment and said that the Kumar’s leadership and
Gandhi” cannot under- her name and change it he is taking action reviewed regularly. try should firmly imple- blazed gun over the alli- 2020 Assembly elections the role of JU(U) as the
stand saffron and sug- to Firoz Priyanka,” said against criminals in Ut- Gandhi instructed the ment the common mini- ance by asserting that will be fought under the biggest party in the 2015
gested that she should Jyoti said. She also said tar Pradesh. She should newly appointed minis- mum programme in the his party was the senior leadership of PM Modi elections were decided
change her name to that Priyanka has a come and make it clear ters to firmly imple- state of Maharashtra.” partner in the alliance and Nitish Kumar. by the people of Bihar
“Feroze Priyanka”. problem with Yogi gov- if she is behind the riot- ment the Common Mini- said senior Congress and must get more seats. Responding to the and not by the leader-
“Priyanka Gandhi ernment as it is firmly ers,” the Union Minis- mum Programme. Con- leader from Maharash- Late state’s dy CM Su- statement, Kishor out- ship of another party or
cannot understand saf- taking strict action ter said. —ANI gress ministers in Ma- tra Vijay Wadettiwar. shil Modi criticised lined that in Bihar, top leadership. —ANI

Air India has to be privatised, no REVIEW MEET

other option, says Hardeep Puri

New Delhi: The gov- ENTRY ONLY WITH BIOMETRIC PASSES
ernment on Tuesday
said that privatisation
of debt-ridden Air India
has become a compul-
sion as fear grows about
the shutdown of the na-
tional carrier.
Union Civil Aviation
Minister Hardeep Singh
Puri said that the priva-
tisation is not an option The minister said keep it running. become a slave to or vic-
and it has to be done. “I that debt over the na- He said, “Air India tim of certain dead-
had said earlier also, for tional carrier has made over a period of time has lines, we are doing it
us, it is not an option. it unsustainable and the now gathered debt which seriously. We are trying
Air India has to be pri- national carrier needs could be described as un- to do it as quickly as Home Minister Amit Shah reviews functioning of the Sashastra Seema Bal during a visit to its Headquarters in New Delhi.
vatised,” Puri said. to go in private hands to sustainable. We do not possible.

AADHAAR PAN LINKING DEADLINE INDIAN SINGER PART OF OBAMA’S

EXTENDED TILL MARCH 31, 2020
New Delhi: December 31,
was reported to be the
last day to link PAN card
with Aadhaar number a
few days ago. December
31 was indeed the last
day to link PAN card and
Aadhaar. But now the date
has been yet againex-
tended. The new deadline
to link Aadhaar with PAN
Card is March 31, 2020.
CBDT extends Aad-
RPF IS NOW INDIAN RAILWAY FAVOURITE MUSIC OF 2019 LIST ATOMIC PLANT TO COME NEAR
haar-PAN linking deadline PROTECTION FORCE SERVICE New Delhi: Indian singer Miguel and “Go” by the DELHI, SAYS JITENDRA SINGH
to March, 2020 from New Delhi: The Ministry of Railway has accorded Prateek Kuhad’s song band Black Eyed Peas. New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh said
December 31, 2019.” The Organised Group ‘A’ status to Railway Protec- “cold/mess” has made “From hip-hop to country that India will soon have an atomic plant that will
government department tion Force (RPF) and renamed it Indian Railway it to former US Presi- to The Boss, here are come up near to national capital Delhi. Singh, the
then also tweeted: “The Protection Force Service. “Consequent upon grant dent Barack Obama’s my songs of the year. Minister of State in the Department of Atomic En-
due date for linking of of Organised Group ‘A’ status (OGAS) to RPF in favourite music of 2019 If you’re looking for ergy said: “We are going to have an atomic plant
PAN with Aadhaar as the light of cabinet decision arising from Hon’ble line-up. The list, shared something to keep you very close to Delhi just about 150 kilometres at a
specified under sub-sec- Court’s orders, it is hereby informed that RPF will by Obama on Twitter, has company on a long drive place called Gorakhpur in Haryana. It will be the
tion 2 of section 139AA of be known as Indian Railway Protection Force Ser- 35 songs which includes or help you turn up a first of its kind in north India.” “One of the greatest
the Income-tax Act, 1961 vice,” a notice by Ministry of Railways stated. The “Hello Sunshine” by rock workout, I hope there’s a achievements of the Narendra Modi government
has been extended from notice in this regard was issued by Joint Director legend Bruce Spring- track or two in here that is that we have moved out both atomic energy and
December 31, 2019 to of Railway Board Amitabh Joshi on December 30. steen, “Show Me Love” does the trick,” the ex space from the limited zones. ” he added.
March 31, 2020. of Alicia Keys featuring POTUS captioned the list.
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
SPORTS AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
09

DASHING DECADE OF
VIRAT KOHLI ROHIT SHARMA
The stardom was born even before the start of the It has been a sensational year for Rohit, as he
decade, when he led his colts to victory in the ICC slammed 5 centuries in the WC and then was brilliant
U-19 Cricket WC in 2008. However, it is in 2010s that as an opener in Test cricket. Not only was he prolific

the cricketer from Delhi has gained a reputation as the
most consistent batsman and an aggressive leader.
Although he was part of the WC winning side in 2011
and the team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in
2013, the one thing that still eludes him is the Men in
Blue winning an ICC trophy under his captaincy.
P V SINDHU
Shuttler created history when she became the first
Indian badminton player to win a gold medal at the
World Championships in August 2019. What adds
to her glory is the fact that her achievements have
made her a household name in India, where cricket
players are often the more followed sports icons.
Heading into the new decade, all eyes will be fixed
on Sindhu in the biggest event of the year Tokyo
2020 as she prepares to upgrade her medal to gold
and end India’s 12-year wait for a 2nd gold medal.
WORLD OF SPORTS
as a batsman, he was an absolute match-winner for
India across all formats. The right-hander scored 1921
runs in victorious matches, it is the fourth-highest in
this decade for all batsmen who have scored a mini-
mum of 1500 runs in wins in a single calendar year.
Rohit finds his name thrice in the top 5 list
While India ended 2019 with hits & misses as a sporting APURVI CHANDELA
nation, there is a lot to look forward to at start of the new From winning gold in the 10-metre air rifle event at
the 2012 National Championships as a 19-year-old
decade. The biggest multi-sport event, Olympic Games will be to repeating the feat at the 2014 Commonwealth
held from July 24 and India will be eyeing a decent show after Games in Glasgow, few would have doubted that
there were bigger things in store for Jaipur’s Apurvi
several breakthrough performances in the last few years Chandela. Her impressive showing in international
competitions this year saw her rise to the World No
1 spot in the rankings. Also, Manu Bhaker, showed
no fear even when faced with the best in the world.

HIMA DAS MARY KOM

Indian sprinter won five gold medals this year Managed to stay on top of her sport for almost
in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic, Poznan two decades. She won gold at the inaugural
Athletics Grand Prix in Poland, Kutno World Championships for women in
Athletics Meet, Kladno Athletics 2002 and by the end of this decade,
Meet in Czech Republic and at her eight medals (6 golds, 1 silver,
the Tabor Athletics Meet in the 1 bronze) are the most by
same country. The 19-year- any boxer (male or female).
old sprinter from Assam She also medalled at the
made India proud with London Olympics, first
her achievements in time that women’s
an area of sports boxing was a part
that is not of the Olympics,
always seen and also won
as India’s golds at the
strength. Asian and
Common-
wealth
Games.

FROM WORLD CUP TRIUMPH TO

SABBATICAL: DECADE THAT WAS FOR DHONI
W hen Cricket
Australia
named Mahendra
Singh Dhoni the captain
of their ODI team of the
decade we didn’t need to ask,
why. MS Dhoni is undoubtedly
among the best cricketing brains
the history of sport has ever
seen. If you are ever going to a
casino, MS Dhoni would be the
only person you would be want-
ing by your side. He is a gambler
in a cricketing field. Dhoni’s
retirement from Test cricket
came as a shock to his fans.
His ongoing sabbatical from the
sport was unpredictable. Many
predicted Dhoni would announce
his retirement after the 2019
WC, but he went on to com-
plete 15 years in international
cricket. The
“big decision’ that
everyone is speculat-
ing on would come next
decade but this decade
has probably seen it all of
Dhoni his match-winning six
in the WC to end the 28-year-
long trophy drought to his
lack of intent’ in the 2019 WC
semi-final.

in Rashid goes for most Messi wants

BRIEF
BBL: Sydney expensive figures
Neymar to take
his place: Report
Maria Sharapova to return next
defeat Strikers
Sydney: In a nail-biting
encounter, Sydney
Thunder defeated Ade-
Adelaide:
leg-spinner
Premier
Rashid
Khan could not finish
Barcelona: Lionel
Messi has told Neymar
that he is ready to quit
month as Brisbane wildcard
laide Strikers by three 2019 on a high as he was FC Barcelona and make
runs in the Big Bash
League (BBL). Chasing
taken to the cleaners in way for him, if needed, London: Former The five-times
a target of 168 runs, the ongoing edition of as the Catalan giants world number one Grand Slam champi-
Strikers did not start the Big Bash League are looking to the Bra- Maria Sharapova on will join current
well and lost opener (BBL) where he plays zilian star as a replace- will return to tourna- world number one
Phil Salt for a duck. for Adelaide Strikers. ment for the Argentine ment action at the Ashleigh Barty,
Diego appointed Afghanistan spinner striker, as per reports. Brisbane Interna- Naomi Osaka and
as head coach Rashid, ranked No. 1 in Messi sent a WhatsApp tional next month Karolina Pliskova
Paris: Inter Miami CF
T20Is, was taken for 44 to his former teammate after being awarded a in a strong field at
has appointed 44-year- runs in four overs, the who scored 63. and Paris Saint Ger- wildcard to play in the Queensland
old Diego Alonso as the most he has leaked in Sydney Thunder main striker that read: the Australian Open Tennis Cen-
first-ever head coach of the BBL against Sydney reached 168/5 after 20 “Only together can we warm-up. tre from
the side ahead of the in- Thunder in front of a overs. win the Champions The 32-year-old January
augural 2020 Major
packed festive crowd Earlier in the league, League, according to Russian, who last 6-12.
League Soccer. Alonso
has good experience be- here on New Year’’s Rashid flaunted a new France Football. “I played a competitive “It’s a
hind him as the only Eve. bat design. While play- want you to come back. match in the first fresh start after
coach to win Concacaf Sydney Thunder won ing against defending In two years, I’m leav- round of the U.S. a tough last season,”
Champions League the toss and elected to champions Melbourne ing, and you’ll be alone, Open in August, has Sharapova told Aus-
with 2 different teams. bat first as Callum Fer- Renegades, Rashid was you’ll take my place.” dropped to 133rd in tralian Associated
Trevor appointed guson top-scored for seen holding a bat that Spanish giants Barcelo- the world after a sea- Press on Tuesday.
Windies’ coach them with a 46-ball 73. had a depression on its na’s think-tank also feel son in which a “There were a lot
New Delhi: Trevor Rashid got Ferguson’’s back, giving it the look that Neymar can fill the long-standing shoul- of ups and downs,
Penney on Monday (lo- wicket but it was scant of a camel’’s back. shoes of Messi once he der injury restricted there were times
cal time) was appointed consolation as the bat- Cricket Australia is gone, after trying out her to eight tourna- when I was ready but
assistant coach of the ter tonked him to all tweeted a picture of the a few to see if they can ments. the shoulder wasn’t.
West Indies’ men’s areas of the park along bat and nicknamed it step up, as per the Span-
cricket team. He will be
taking up his duties for
with Usman Khawaja “The Camel.” ish outlet Sport.
two years only in the
white-ball format of the
game. The 51-year-old
will be joining the team
FITNESS ASSESSMENT IPL 2020 set to begin
Khelo India app reaches historic mark
on January 2.

‘Next decade
should be about
children & their
dreams’
New Delhi: Cricket
legend Sachin Ten-
dulkar feels the upcom-
ing decade starting
Wednesday should be
about children and al-
lowing them to express
freely without fear as
they are our future.
“The year 2020 and the
decade that follows,
should be about chil-
dren. By spending time,
showering love and let-
ting them know it’’s
okay to make mistakes
-- we can enable them to
dream big,” Tendulkar
said on New Year’’s Eve.
on March 29 with MI
New Delhi: The 2020 start on March 29 at
 New Delhi: The fitness for height and weight edition of the Indian Wankhede,” the official
assessment of school (BMI), static balance Premier League is set said.
This will lay the children through the (flamingo test) & coor- to get underway on This means that the
Khelo India mobile app dination (plate tap test). March 29 at the Wank- teams playing the first
foundation for has crossed a historic Secondly, the assess- hede Stadium in Mum- couple of games will
creating a mark of 1.5 million in
less than a year since its
ment for the age group
of 9 to 18 takes place for
bai with Mumbai Indi-
ans kicking off the
miss the services of the
Australian, English and
National Fitness launch by Prime Minis- speed (50 m standing campaign on their Kiwi foreign recruits as
Index for each ter Narendra Modi on
February 27.
start), endurance (600
m run or walk), flexi-
home ground. Speak-
ing to IANS, a Delhi
there will be 2 interna-
tional series on at that
age-group &
Over 8500 schools, bility (sit and reach Capitals official said point in time with Aus-
mostly belonging to the test), core (partial curl that the starting date is tralia and New Zealand
will give a CBSE board, have regis- up 30 seconds) and set to be March 29 with clashing in a T20I series
chance to tered over 24 lakh stu-
dents out of which over
muscular endurance
(push ups for boys and
defending champions
MI playing the opener
that has the last game
on March 29 and the En-
identify a raw 15 lakh have been as- through a battery of for those between the modified push ups for at Wankhede. “I am gland-Sri Lanka Test
potential talent sessed so far. The stu-
dents are being assessed
tests designed to target
two age groups. First,
ages of 5 and 8, the as-
sessment is conducted
girls) in addition to
height and weight.
told that the 2020 edi-
tion of the IPL will
series which ends on
March 31.
 The dawn of a new calendar year
is a time of resolutions and belief.

2ND FRONT
A time of Faith in all that is good
and positive. Peace and Joy to all of you.
Happy 2020!
—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor, First India

www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020

10

Emergence of Modi, Shah as national

heroes made 2019 a significant year —PHOTO BY NAIM KHAN

z According to you, In all Congress circles,

what were the most he is emerging as a
significant incidents hero. He is son of the
of 2019, which affect- soil and is a grassroots
ed the country’s poli- leader. If suppose he is
tics and decisions of given a choice to either
the government? be Congress President
Jagdeesh Chandra: or Chief Minister of
When we talk about the Rajasthan, he will pre-
incidents of 2019, the fer to be in Rajasthan.
incidents of Pulwama
and Balakot, rise of z Like CM Gehlot
Narendra Modi and him says that RSS should
becoming the Prime dissolve itself in BJP,
Minister again, Amit what do you think
Shah being the Home should RSS do?
Minister and being a See, the goodwill and
part of Indian politics reputation of RSS is
with the image of Sard- such that it holds the re- Jagdeesh Chandra taking questions from Divya, Shewta Aayushi, Aditi, Deepa, Khushbu and Ishika during The New JC Show.
ar Patel are some re- mote control of BJP.
markable things which People may say other- two jobs to him, one of 2024 will arrive, the are a bit concerned
took place in 2019. These wise, but I have amend- which is to bring a NRC will be complete. about the economic
things presented Shah ed the comment that at smoothness between As we ring in the New Year 2020, Editor-In-Chief Another issue which slowdown, but politi-
as a national hero in
front of the country. The
least 51 percent control
of the party is in the
Gehlot and Pilot and he
has succeeded. Second
of First India, Jagdeesh Chandra, in The New JC grab the eyeballs of
the public is reobtain-
cally they believe that
the majority does not
foundation of a Hindu hands of Modi and is the mandate of good Show, talks about various issues that have ing the POK and it have another option
Rashtra was laid in this Shah. This is my assess- governance so that the will be their main other than them. They
year. ment. But people don’t party gets re-elected af- impacted the nation as a whole, the newsmakers agenda. It will not be want to stay focused
Apart from this, the fail- agree with this and say ter five year term. So a big thing if they do on the Indian govern-
ure of Rahul Gandhi, as that RSS plays a major Pande is a discovery in of 2019 and how political stalwarts like Modi, it as the morale of the ment, rather than
he lost the Lok Sabha
election from Amethi,
role since it is claimed
that Amit Shah plays a
the INC. Shah, Rahul, Gehlot, Pande and others would Pakistani army is
down while their
keep their eyes on
states. So, we can say
Congress organisation major role in tactfully z How do you see the succeed in their respective roles in times (Modi, Shah) morale that their loss can be
being practically with- handling Mohan Bhag- BJP performing in is on a high that they attributed to various
out a leader and the wat so it does not seem 2023 elections? to come. Excerpts... can do anything. Is- factors including fall
party not deciding on that there is a difference See, BJP’s future is tied sues like NRC and in popularity.
whether Rahul will be in their thinking. Now, to Narendra Modi and Population Register
the party President or Ashok Gehlot has posed Amit Shah. It can be said himself intact as CM Prime Minister that he sent himself as the would get settled and z Will Rahul Gandhi
not were also some mat- a new question that RSS that BJP’s future and designate candidate. should work on the de- statesman of huge a new topic of POK be allowed to take
ters that dominated does politics under a Modi and Shah are tied velopment agenda while stature. If Modi gets could be raised in own decisions this
2019. The historical de- garb and why doesn’t it to each other. If they will z What will be the let him (Shah) work on a chance, he will con- 2024. time around as now
cisions of Supreme declare itself a political be in power, BJP will Raje factor in 2023 the political part, and test elections from he is getting back on
Court, the creation of a unit. This is his policy win in the states, be- elections? the PM did the same. America and win z Looking at the As- his own terms? If yes,
new post of Chief of De- decision and it is not a cause now BJP is cen- This is a million dollar The new face of BJP, there as well, as his sembly election re- what changes do you
fence Staff and the bad suggestion. trally dominated and is question. Everyone in Hindu Rashtra are all agenda is different. sults of Haryana, see in CM and PCC
emergence of Ashok not run from states. the BJP is also thinking because of Amit Shah. Modi has handed Maharashtra and Chiefs of five Con-
Gehlot as a national z How do you evalu- Elections have shown on the same lines. Be- It can be safely said that over the ruling and Jharkhand, people gress ruled states?
leader in the politics of ate Rajasthan In- that state polls will be cause even after being 2019 was completely responsibility of the have started saying After staying in a less
Congress were part of charge Avinash Pan- contested and won on lo- sidelined, her populari- Shah’s year. country to Shah not that Narendra Modi’s functional role, Rahul
the big occurrences in de’s role? Will he be cal issues and not na- ty, crowd pulling ability only on papers but in charisma is fading? has agreed to come back
2019. successful in achiev- tional issues. Thus, 2023 and public response is z During Modi 2.0 reality as well. Every See, election results say and it is being said that
ing the mammoth election is a major chal- not dwindling. Wher- government forma- Saturday, Shah takes a the same that the influ- he will return in or
z Why only Ashok Ge- task in Rajasthan? lenge for BJP because ever she goes, people tion, you had claimed review meeting of all ence of Narendra Modi around March. Only
hlot is making fron- Avinash Pande is a si- even after Modi and get attracted to her. that Shah will also the departments, apart and Amit Shah, both of time will tell how
tal attacks on Naren- lent performer. He is a Shah being at the helm, People chanted come- take oath and become from PMO. It can be whom I consider as na- much freedom Rahul
dra Modi and Amit 24/7 Congress worker party is losing in states. back Vasundhara Home Minister. Shah clearly stated that the tional heroes, has gone enjoys to take deci-
Shah, whereas, Con- and if he is told to be- It remains to be seen Raje during a recent has played his role as Home Minister and down a little, the graph sions on his own and
gress rules in five come CM or PCC Chief, who leads the BJP in function. You can more than no. 2. The Prime Minister are has declined a bit. How- will he be able to dis-
states? Is it Gehlot’s he will want to be the 2023 in Rajasthan. sideline Raje, but you way the graph is mov- made for each other. ever, there is another turb the present sta-
well thought strategy PCC Chief as he is not can’t ignore her. ing forward, do you The delegation of au- reason for the loss and it tus of CM and PCC
or a natural expres- lured by power. He is a z Do you think the think Shah can be- thority among the two is that the BJP could not Chiefs in Congress
sion or disappoint- mature & balanced BJP has shortlisted z From the start of come the Prime Min- leaders is such that form a proper alliance ruled states and bring
ment against Centre’s person who is known Gajendra Singh 2019, BJP, especially ister in future? Shah is depicted as the in these states. On the a change. For example
policies? for utmost focus and Shekhawat as the Amit Shah, had the Amit Shah has no real Prime Minister, contrary, Ahmed Pa- if we take Rajasthan,
Even I am surprised as is to the point. His 2023 CM candidate pressure of forming hurry to become a but he is not the PM tel was able to forge will he be able to change
this is a new Ashok Ge- perception is clear and how do you eval- the government again Prime Minister. He is and does not even wish good alliances in these Gehlot, if we speak on
hlot, who generally and his connection uate his performance because the party had 12 years younger than to hold the post. Recent- areas. So, declining the perception building
does Gandhian, non-vi- with the entire Gan- as a Union Minister? lost Assembly polls in Narendra Modi and ly, Shah said, “I am too popularity, Congress’s around the entire issue.
olent and humble poli- dhi family whether As far as shortlisting is three big states, in- has worked with him junior to be considered better alliances, third Personally, I don’t think
tics. Although attack- Sonia, Rahul or Pri- concerned, Gajendra cluding Rajasthan. as his no. 2. The loy- as a Prime Minister issue is economic so. Gehlot has gone so
ing your opponent does yanka, is the same. He Singh’s behaviour and Do you feel that the alty, commitment and candidate. He is happy slowdown, fourth is towering and has mass
not fall in this ambit. is an old student of role in Rajasthan cou- whole year and the state of mind of Amit being the Hanuman of the local issues and support in Rajasthan.
There are two points on the Ahmed Patel pled with blessings of incidents you men- Shah show that he Narendra Modi. fifth is the coming to- The governance is good,
the way he is attacking. school along with Modi and Shah, it ap- tioned about, can does not see himself gether of local leaders there is popularity, there
First is his moral cour- Mukul Wasnik. He pears that, what the prove that the entire as the PM. Also, while z After Ram Mandir, who were kept away is loyalty and achieve-
age. There is no Chief raised the party at party could not achieve year can be dedicated Modi being the PM, Article 370 & NRC, is from the power in the ments are also there. So
Minister in the country grassroots level in state earlier due to Raje’s to Amit Shah? Shah sees himself as there any other issue past five years, they I don’t think. And even
who could make such and although credit is dominance, they want to Absolutely, 2019 was Modi’s no. 2 or army that could be taken all came together. It is if we see objectively, en-
attacks on Modi or given to Pilot since he is justify their earlier deci- the year of Amit Shah commander. Practically, up by Modi & Shah? a package of five rea- tire Congress is stand-
Shah. Is he doing so due PCC Chief (we don’t sion by making him the in the history of Inde- Shah is in the role of There are infinite mat- sons. In totality, the ing with Ashok Gehlot
to disappointment to- deny that), but Pande CM. It looks that appar- pendent India. 2019 Deputy PM. If, I elabo- ters for them and they BJP which ruled al- and will Sonia Gandhi
wards the Centre or is knows each and every ently he has been short- and Amit Shah were rate, it can be said that have numerous issues. most seventy percent permit this? Similar is
it a strategy? And, if MLA. He has a huge listed. On the other synonyms. Whatever with consent, delega- They can create a new of the land, is now the situation with Ka-
that is so, then there is connect as during the hand, Shekhawat’s body happened in the coun- tion and approval by issue every day as they only in fifty percent mal Nath, while Chattis-
one explanation that he Delhi rally, he got his language, conduct and try, was decided as per Modi, Shah is virtually do politics 24/7 and area. For example, if I garh and Punjab are a
is making himself a men to call all the MLAs. behaviour have also the agenda, statement Prime Minister, domes- work hard for it by mak- were to travel from different matter alto-
strongman across Even Maharashtra grown to be that of a CM and aggressive style of tic affairs while Modi ing new plans. Specifi- Jaipur to Kolkata, I can gether. These are all
party lines against MLAs were listening to candidate and he has Shah. Article 370 fol- has taken over as the cally, they have a lot of reach Kolkata without speculations and even if
Modi for Prime Min- Pande instead of other been meeting people lowed by NRC are be- Prime Minister, Inter- matters. They have covering any one BJP suppose Rahul wants to
isterial candidate, leaders like Shinde and with that confidence. cause of Amit Shah. I national affairs. said that BJP will rule ruled state. But are Modi change even one of these
whether he be the Chavan. So Pande is a However, what is more have heard that when In this tenure, Modi for 50 years. What I and Shah worried of people, I don’t think he
Congress candidate phenomenon. Sonia important to see is if Shah took oath this wishes to receive a can see in near future this falling graph and will be able to bring a
or alliance candidate. Gandhi has delegated Shekhawat can keep time, he said to the Nobel Prize and pre- is that by the time the answer is no. They major change.
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facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

AHMEDABAD, WEDNESDAY
JANUARY 1, 2020

BAJIRAO MASTANI
Ranveer and Deepika, their
love and the scale, grandeur
and attention to detail makes
Mastaani memorable. I also
remember this movie as in one
instant it explained to me the
impact of Bollywood on the
people when someone known to
me commented that she would
always remember the Great
Bajirao as a better ‘lover’ than
Majnu as he died for his love. I
rest my case.

ANITA HADA
anita.hada@firstindianews.com

B
ollywood or Hindi
films impact the life
of the average Indi-
an in more ways
than one. As the dec-
ade ends, I look back
at some of the mov-
ies which are still remem-
bered albeit for different rea-

ZINDAGI NA
sons. We all have our lists,
this is just a peek into my list

of the decade, 2010 to 2020.
The next decade till 2030
will probably be defined
more by the Web Series and
Real life video games than
the traditional two to three
hour Bollywood film or
maybe not even that! The
way the world and technol-
ogy is changing it is not easy
to predict the future of en-
tertainment!
BAND BAAJA
BARAAT
One film I loved because
of the fiesty character
played by Anushka and
the realistic love story.
I am quite fond of bread
pakoras too, so that too
played a part, maybe. The
movie balanced the reality
of a mundane wedding
planning and romance with
heartbreak and passion.
MILEGI
DOBARA
It remains an all time
favourite and was actually
a wake up call for many. ENGLISH VINGLISH
One could relate to it very Sridevi fumbled over her English and in the
closely and it was an ode dark cinema hall I coaxed her, as did many
to friendship. For me it is women with me. In this decade she became
a movie which celebrates the voice of the ‘Bhartiya Naari’ and as she
life and is a reminder , even stood up for herself, in those gorgeous
today, of what is important sarees and with limpid eyes, we all cheered
and should be held close. for her and also ourselves, all of us and our
mothers, aunts and friends- we the laddoo
makers of India.
GANGS OF
ROCKSTAR
WASSEYPUR The young boy with Jim
The sheer unconventionality Morrison in his heart which
appealed to me, the no one understands
unpredictability, the depth touched a chord
of characters - it is difficult within me. That
to say what made a deep he managed to
impact on me. Suffice to say, fulfil it and then to
GOW touched a deep core realize that there is
within ourselves which rarely far more to making life
sees the sunlight and made meaningful than fame and
us think. money, is what makes this
movie special for me. The
doomed love story and the
anti-climax added to the
charm for me.

GULLY BOY
Gully boy will stay with me
not only that for its rap but for
the raw passion that rules the
movie and for the acceptance
that an off beat interest can
give to a troubled young man
and a love that transcends
the mundane. For me
Gully boy is about how
young India dreams
and fights to find its
rightful place in the
humdrum unapologetic
reality of life.
 YEAR ENDER
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
12

YOUR 2020
ARIES
MAR 21 - APR 20
2020 will be all about balance
for the Aries zodiac sign. Even
though you will be ambitious,
you will be more realistic about
your goals. Stability will be seen in all
aspects of your life, especially your
relationships. Changes and new
opportunities in your profession will keep
you busy in 2020. Aries, everything will
work out in your favour. But you need to
take the initiative to make the first move.
Aries 2020 love predictions suggest your
love life will also stabilize this year. In past
years, your romances may have been
crazy or traumatic in the past, but this
year things will be better for you and your
partner. You can make things easier for
your relationships, romantic or not if you
remember to think before you speak.

From Left: Chanchal Singh,

TAURUS Khusboo Dahiya,
APR 21 - MAY 20 Tripti Sharma,
The 2020 astrology predictions Ritu Choudhary,
forecast a calm and steady year Mahima Sharma
for the Taurus sun sign. You will and Daisy Choudhary
be ready to settle down this
year. This is a year when important —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO
choices need to be made. Be it
relationships or your job; be sure of what
you decide. Being impulsive in love is not
PISCES
an option for the bulls in 2020. Always be
open to suggestions from knowledgeable
people when it comes to financial
We hope that 2020 FEB20 - MARCH 20
The 2020 horoscopes for the
investments. Taurus 2020 love forecasts
suggest your love life will stabilize this will be a promising Pisces astrology sign foretell
that this will be a year of

year, which will be

year. You will find harmony with yourself excitement and adventure for
and your partner in 2020. This year is a the Fishes. You will be brave enough to
good time to find out whatever it is that be open to changes and try new things
you want out of your relationship. While
you may not feel comfortable making
changes in your relationship, but it will
filled with prosperity in life. You might even get pregnant.
Your job or business will serve as an
inspiration for you. You are in a
help in the long run.
and happiness. City comfortable position in life.
So don’t let your impulsive

First brings you an

decisions spoil what is
working out for you.
GEMINI Pisces, this year your
MAY 21 - JUNE 21
The Gemini zodiac sign will
have a refreshing 2020. You
overview of the relationships are bound
to be better than they
have in past years. Your
have to set the pace for
yourself this year. If it feels too horoscope 2020 social life will flourish in
2020. If you are already

slow, then be more active. And if life
seems to be too fast, then slow down.
Love life will be fun and passionate. The
money will be stable, and your job will
keep you occupied for the most part of
the year. This is a year to improve the
different aspects of your life. Gemini, this
year your romantic life is bound to
become more intense. Things may have
been boring for you last year, but this is
a great year to spice things up with your
partner finally. However, this doesn’t
mean that you will be delighted in a
sex-based relationship. You will need
love and compassion to be truly happy in
a romantic relationship. You may get
bored sometimes, but that’s your cue to
try something new.
CANCER
JUNE 22 - JULY 23
The Cancer star sign needs to
be ready for changes in 2020.
The astrology forecasts for
2020 predict that improvement
in love and career is on the cards for the
crabs. But whether you choose to take up
the opportunities or let them pass,
depends entirely on you. Conflict at the
workplace needs to be dealt with.
Observing the tiny details in life will help
you overcome all problems in 2020.
Cancer love forecasts that in 2020 you are
likely to find harmony within your
romantic relationships. You will also feel
more romantic in general, which your
partner is likely to appreciate. If you are
currently a single Cancerian, then this is
also a great year to try to find love. Before
you look for a new partner you need to
take some time to figure out what it is that
you want out of a relationship.
LEO
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23
Life will be full of twists
and turns for the Leo sun
sign in 2020. The Lions will
be filled with vitality and
vigour to achieve their dreams this
year. But you will also be sensible and
know when to draw the line. You will
be open to trying new food, new
exercises, and new relationships. A
job change or a new business too
might interest you. 2020 is a year for
change when it comes to
relationships, romantic or not. There
may be some problems in your
romantic life, Leo, if you are not with
the right person, or even if you are.
You can do two things when this
happens: try to work things out or
dump them. You are likely to want to
know more about your partner this
year, which could make things more
exciting or terrible, depending on
what you find out about them. Overall,
2020 will be an enjoyable year for the
Leos.
VIRGO
AUG 24 - SEP 23
The Virgo astrological
sign will be out of their
nature in 2020. Known to
be practical, the virgins
might make some very impulsive
decisions in 2020. This might lead
to bad relationships or breakups
and problems in the workplace. Or
even some bad financially loss-
making deals. The 2020 sun sign
predictions ask you to think twice
before making any serious
commitments in 2020. This is not a
year to be stagnant, but at the same
time, do not take rash decisions. If
you liked your loved life last year,
then you’re in luck foretells the
Virgo 2020 astrology. If things are
going well for you, then there’s no
need to change what you are doing.
You found, something that works
for you so you should do your best
to keep it up. If you didn’t like your
love life last year, then this year you
need to change some things.
predictions!
Sayali Bhagat
LIBRA
SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22
The Libra star sign will
have a relatively easy
2020. This is a year to
enjoy and make merry.
You will not have many
responsibilities towards family or
your job. Relax and rejuvenate your
mind in preparation for the coming
years. Single Librans will enjoy
flirting and moving from one
relationship to the other. And do not
forget to spend some good quality
time with your parents, spouse, and
children. Libra astrology 2020
forecasts that if you have had
relationship problems in the past,
don’t worry about them this year.
There is a slim chance of turmoil in
your relationship this year and a
very high chance for harmony
within your relationship. Make sure
that you do not forget the lessons in
love that you learned last year. They
are sure to be able to help you this
year too!
SCORPIO
OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22
The zodiac 2020 predic-
tions foretell that this will
be a year of liberation and
freedom for the Scorpio
zodiac sign. You will feel free of all
restrictions and limitations in your
life. This is a good time to focus on
learning a new hobby or improving
your work skills. Use your positive
energy to help others move forward
in their lives. You can choose what to
do or not in 2020. So make the most
of it judiciously. Scorpio, your love
life will carry on in much of the same
vein that it did last year. There will be
a slight change though, as 2020 is
predicted to be a highly passionate
year, even for the most novice lovers.
If you are already in a relationship,
then you will be more inclined to have
more romantic dates and passionate
sex. If you are single, then you will
also have opportunities for things like
this, but you will need to act on it
quickly to get what you want.
Sonali Bendre
SAGITTARIUS
NOV 23 - DEC 22
2020 is a year of resolutions
for the Sagittarius zodiac
sign. This is a good time to
let go of your past baggage
and clean up on different aspects of
your life that have been bothering you.
But to achieve success, you need to be
patient. You might be very social in the
coming year and open to meeting new
people. But don’t let that reflect on your
existing relationships. And you can
expect some major financial gains.
Sagittarius, you are likely to look for a
change of pace in your love life this year,
whether you are single or not. If you are
single, then it is a good time to begin
looking for a new partner. You are likely
to find love with someone new rather
than with a friend or an ex. You are
more likely to meet new people if you try
new things or go to new places. There
will also be changes in your friends and
family relationships in 2020. You will
need to be more optimistic around these
people to keep their spirits up.
in a relationship, then
things are about to get
sweeter. The more
optimistic that you are in
your social life, the more
new and wonderful people
you are bound to attract. If
you are already in a
relationship, then you may
make many new friends this
year. If you are single, then
you are likely to meet a new
love or two in 2020.
AQUARIUS
JAN 21 - FEB 19
2020 is the year to prove your
abilities, Aquarius! This is the
year to put people’s doubts to
rest. You will be at your
creative peak this year. So make the most
of it. Show your loved ones that you can
be the perfect spouse and the perfect
parent. Let your imagination and
innovative ideas speak for themselves at
the workplace. Just do not get carried
away by this new found energy and
remember to save for the rainy day.
Aquarius, you are likely to feel extra
passionate this year with your partner. If
you do not have a partner, then it’s a
great year to work on getting one. You
will feel more romantic and charming,
which can easily draw new people
towards you. When it comes to your
current partner, your spontaneous nature
will bring some fun and excitement into
your marriage relationship, which is sure
to spice things up a little bit.
CAPRICORN
DEC 23 - JAN 20
The 2020 birthday horoscope
for the Capricorn sun sign
shows that this year you will
strive for calm and tranquillity.
You will be tired of running the rat race
and ready to take a break. Learn new
ways to meditate and practice mindful-
ness. A spiritually healing vacation too
will prove to be beneficial for your
mental health. When you are at peace
with yourself, you will be able to make
the most of the opportunities that are
presented to you in 2020. Capricorn,
this year in 2020 your love life is likely
to be the centre of your life. It is time to
commit to your long-term relationships
if you are already in one. Taking things
to the next level, moving in together,
getting engaged or married, or even
having a baby together are great ways
to do this. If you are not already in a
relationship, but if you also want to be
in a relationship, then a great place to
begin your search is in the circle of
friends that you already have. These
people will likely make good partners
because you are likely to have more in
common with them than with strangers.
 www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
TOSHI VIJAY
cityfirst@firstindia.
co.in
A
s each year-end and an-
other begins, we have
so much to look for-
ward especially in Bol-
lywood. The year has
witnessed multiple hits
and firsts in the jour-
ney of Bollywood. Where in the
content-based cinema started
making a mainstream position
and gained a hearted acceptance
from the cinema lovers across
the world. From stars like Deep-
ika Padukone to Ranveer Singh,
Rajkumar Rao to Kangana
Ranaut and Ayushman Khura-
na to Vidya Balan, stars have
several films tired up in the com-
ing future and we thought about
to keep you posted.
So here are some movies you
would need to add to your calen-
dar for the year 2020.
CHHAPAAK - 10 JAN 2020
Released a few days back, the
trailer of Chhapaak is a re-
minder for all those struggling
with life. Inspired by the real
story of Laxmi Aggarwal,
Chhapaak is the movie that we
are eagerly waiting for.
Starring Deepika Padukone in
the lead alongside Vikrant Mas-
sey, the Meghna Gulzar film is
expected to bring a sense of cour-
age and pride among women.
TANHAJI : AN UNSUNG
WARRIOR - 10 JAN 2020
Ajay Devgn will be seen on the
big screen in director Om Raut’s
film. Which will bring Ajay and
wife, Kajol together after a gap
of nine years long The movie is
a historical drama based on
Subedar Taanaji Malusare, the
military leader in the army of
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,
who lost his life in the battle at
Fort of Sinhagad. Saif Ali Khan
will be seen playing a negative
role as Udaybhan Singh Rathod
in the film.
PANGA - 24 JAN 2020
With the rebellious cast like Ri-
cha Chadda, Kangana Ranaut &
Neena Gupta film Panga has
eyes on them. Sports Drama
Block the Dates in
film which is based on the life
of a Kabaddi player.
STREET DANCER - 24 JAN 2020
New year treat for Dance lovers
!! the most loved film of the dec-
ade ABCD and ABCD2 come
with another dance film ‘Street
Dancer’. This musical flick that
stars Shraddha Kapoor, Varun
Dhawan and Nora Fatehi in the
prominent roles will showcase
the various dance forms.
JAWAANI JAANEMAN -
31 JAN 2020
Saif Ali Khan’s film Jawaani
Jaaneman has been in the news
since the release of the poster.
Saif Ali Khan will be seen shar-
ing the silver screen with Tabu
after a very long time. Also, ac-
tress Pooja Bedi’s daughter Alia
Furniturewala is going to kick
start her acting career in Bol-
lywood.
LOVE AAJ KAL 2 - 14 FEB 2020
After giving some hits in the
year 2019, Sara Ali Khan and
Kartik Aryan will return to the
box office with a new love song.
An Imitiaz Ali’s film sequel of
‘Love Aaj Kal 2’ slated to be re-
leased on this Valentine’s Day.
SHUBH MANGAL ZYADA
SAVDHAN - 21 FEB 2020
Highlighting the taboo topics
with the worthy scripts is what
we deserve with the film. Star-
ring Ayushmann Khurrana
who will continue his onscreen
activism with the pinch of ho-
mosexuality to the mainstream
spotlight. The story was final-
ised on the subject of a same-
sex love story set in Prayagraj.
THE TRUE STORY OF GUNJAN
SAXENA - THE KARGIL GIRL -
13 MARCH 2020
Much appreciated with the de-
ETC
AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
but film ‘Dhadak’, Janhvi Ka-
poor is all set to be seen in her
next ‘The True Story of Gunjan
Saxena’ and as the title says, the
film is based on the story of In-
dia’s first Air Force Woman of-
ficer who went to war.
ANGREZI MEDIUM - 20 MARCH 2020
If you been a fan of the film ‘Eng-
lish Medium’ then there is good
news for you. ‘Angrezi Medium’
film starring Irrfan Khan and
Kareena Kapoor Khan is back to
take you for an emotional roller
coaster ride wherein Kareena
Kapoor Khan will be seen in the
role of a cop for the very first
time in her onscreen career.
SOORYAVANSHI - 27 MARCH 2020
Sooryavanshi is the upcoming
action thriller Bollywood mov-
ie that is helmed by Rohit Shet-
ty and features Akshay Kumar
in the lead characters. The
13
movie is scheduled to release on
27th March 2020.
‘83 - 10 APRIL 2020
The much loved real-life couple
would be back on screen with
the film ‘83, where Deepika
Padukone and Ranveer Singh
will be sharing the screen. The
duo is gearing up for the on-
screen retelling of India’s his-
toric win of the 1983 Cricket
World Cup. The film would be
based on the life of veteran
cricketer Kapil Dev.
GULABO SITABO - 24 APRIL
2020
Gulabo Sitabo is a new Hindi
movie which is helmed by
Shoojit Sircar. The movie stars
Amitabh Bachchan, Ayush-
mann Khurrana and Nalneesh
Neel in the lead roles and the
Gulabo Sitabo release date is an-
nounced to be 24th April 2020.
COOLIE NO.1 - MAY 1 2020
Bollywood actor Govinda’s icon-
ic movie Coolie No.1 will be re-
visited on the big screen with a
fresh star cast. With Director
David Dhawan, cast Varun Dha-
wan and Sara Ali Khan will take
on the roles of Govinda and Ka-
risma Kapoor respectively.
LAXMMI BOMB - 22ND MAY 2020
‘Laxmmi Bomb’ a Hindi remake
of the Tamil movie ‘Muni 2:
Kanchana’ will be showcasing
Bollywood Khiladi Akshay Ku-
mar in a very different shadow.
Wherein the story of the film
will be a light-hearted comedy
horror film.

A VERY FILMY NEW YEAR!
RISHA BUVARIYA
cityfirstgujarat@gmail.com
T
he month of December
gives us a good reason to bid
our goodbyes and a hope for
new starts with a bash of
parties and celebrations for
coming a long way and com-
pleting one more year of
roller coaster rides and all the
storms that have rained us down so
far. A lot of us have also our New
Year resolutions already planned to
start the year afresh with a motiva-
tion to turn ourselves into a better
us. Keeping the same in mind, we
interviewed our Gujarati film stars
to know if their New Year’s Eve and
resolutions are going to be any dif-
ferent from us.
Seamlessly Fluid Fashion
CITY FIRST
M
ore than 100
fashion design
students of
Bhanwar
Rathore Design Studio
presented draped gar-
ments or no-stitch party
dresses., i.e., in time to
ring in the New Year.
These DIY party dresses
Insights from INSTAGRAM
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
CITY BUZZ AHMEDABAD | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020
14
C
reena Shah has her New Year’s Eves occupied. “Since I am in
the field of acting and anchoring, I’ll be hosting a show this
year as well, just like the past 2 years. This is my 3rd consec-
utive year of organizing/hosting 31st parties. The carnival, New Year
Bash will be held at Ankleshwar Lodge of chain hotels of
Lodge Plaza. However, I believe that the beauty of
my work lies in the fact that I can enjoy myself at
the same time as working. Besides, I get to meet
loads of new people and interact with them.
Since I am busy on the New Year’s Eves and
usually unavailable, the firsts become my
31st with the family.” She maintains, “As
for the Resolutions, though they tend to
D
irector and Writer Neeraj Mecwan, break on a customary basis, I have, as
when asked about his plan for the New motivation, decided to be firm about
my health and fitness routines and
year said, “I’m very excited for 2020.
J
We’re nearing the end of post-production achieve my targets for the year. ignesh Modi, on the contrary, has quite different a plan
In addition, as a part of another
on my latest short film, Rosogulla, and a for the new year. He says, “I am planning to open and
major platform for shorts has already shown resolution, I have prom- inaugurate my new business for the New Year, indicat-
ised myself to go for solo
interest in picking it up. I can’t tell you which ing a start of not only the year but also new plans and new
one yet, since talks are ongoing, but do keep trekking trips, say Leh goals. This inauguration also becomes a part of my resolu-
Ladakh and Uttrakhand
your eyes and ears peeled. I’m planning a few tion to promise my dedication and determination to this
perhaps.”
more films throughout the year as well.” business of new possibilities and opportunities.”
Bow-Wow Dog
Show was organ-
ized at Navdeep
Hall at Naran- WOOF!
pura from 10:00
am to 5:00pm
Ahmedabad in
December. This
Dog Show included
Dog Fashion Show,
Dogs Games, Dogs
Adoption, Dogs
Training etc. More
than 80 dogs of
15 different breeds
owned the ramp.
were creative and cost designer can play with experiment with fabric, gathers. The best part
friendly gowns, short the way the fabric falls to cuts and design. about these garments
dresses, tops, maxis, and create new designs at the BRDS fashion design was that they were not
many more creative gar- start of the fashion de- students were asked to stitched.
ments without stitching. sign process. use easily available fab- The art of draping
Draping is the art of While draping may ric such as cotton and was loved by the stu-
manipulating fabric di- seem like a difficult ap- satin for draping to cre- dents of Fashion De-
rectly on the dress form proach for creating de- ate innovative drapes signing because their
in three dimensions. A signs, it’s actually one of out of these materials. designs came to life as
garment can be draped the more creative parts The result was stunning, they manipulated the
using a design sketch, in of the fashion design employing techniques fabric seamlessly.
other words, a fashion process. Designers can like pleats, cowls and cityfirst@firstindia.co.in
WELCOMING 2020! —PHOTOS BY NANDAN DAVE
Aarohi Patel is a
Gujarati film actress.
After making her acting
debut as a child artist
in Saandeep Patel’s
Moti Na Chowk Re
Sapna Ma Ditha, she
played her first leading
role in Vijaygiri Bava’s
drama film Premji: Rise
of a Warrior, which won
10 prominent Gujarat
State Awards, including
Best Film. The actress
recently posts a photo
of her holding ‘Best
Actress 2019’ Award
at GIFA. In the caption,
she thanks GIFA for
nominating her as the A barber paints the digits of number 2020 onto a man’s beard that he trimmed to welcome
winner of best actress the New Year in a barbershop in Ahmedabad. —PHOTO BY NANDAN DAVE
award.