AMC commissioner seeks more powers to make policy decisions during pandemic

AMC commissioner seeks policy-related powers
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: With the
local civic body
Ahmedabad Munici-
pal Corporation
(AMC) awaiting the
induction of a new
body post elections
(likely to be held in
February next year),
the municipal com-
missioner has been
instructed to act as a
“caretaker” in lieu of
the ruling party’s
elected body. While
making the announce-
ment, the state gov-
ernment had asked
the officers of local
bodies to carry out
routine tasks with no
authority over policy
related matters.
But, if sources are to
be believed, AMC com-
missioner Mukesh Ku-
marhaswrittentoChief
Minister Vijay Rupani
seeking more decision-
making powers.
“He has stated that
owing to the COV-
ID-19 epidemic, there
are a few important
decisions that need to
be taken immediately.
For instance, tenders
of more than Rs3
crore have to be
passed. Also, there
are other matters that
cannot be put off un-
til a new body is elect-
ed,” said the source.
The former standing
committee had already
transferred powers to
the commissioner,
equipping him to take
any decision regarding
the COVID-19 pandemic
in March-April 2020.
“The commissioner
wants to possess the
authority to make
policy-related deci-
sions. He was looking
to approve promo-
tions for a few offi-
cials and fill vacant
posts. The appoint-
ment of new officials
was not conducted by
the elected Turn to P6
Mukesh Kumar wrote to CM
Rupani detailing the decisions that
need to be made for the smooth
functioning of the local civic body
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) Commissioner Mukesh
Kumar —FILE PHOTO
MoH calls meet as UK
reports mutant strain
New Delhi: The Health
Ministry has called a
meeting tomorrow with
its joint monitoring
group on COVID-19 to
discuss a mutant coro-
navirus that has spread
rapidly in the UK, gov-
ernment sources have
said. Several European
nations have banned
flights to and from Brit-
ain. No policy decision
has been taken by India
on any flight ban from
the UK but the matter
will be given a serious
consideration, people
with direct knowledge
of the matter said.
Britain has warned
this new strain of coro-
navirus was “out of
control”, and imposed a
stringent new stay-at-
home lockdown from
Sunday.
The joint monitoring
group chaired by the Di-
rector General of
Health Services (DGHS)
will meet tomorrow
around 10 am to discuss
the mutated variant of
coronavirus reported
from the UK, govern-
ment sources said.
Turn to P6
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AHMEDABAD l MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020 l Pages 12 l 3.00 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208 l Vol 2 l Issue No. 27
OUR EDITIONS: JAIPUR, AHMEDABAD & LUCKNOW
MODI’S IMPROMPTU VISIT TO
GURUDWARA RAKAB GANJ SAHIB
New Delhi: In an unscheduled visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur at Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in Delhi on Sunday
morning. He paid tribute to the Guru Tegh Bahadur and recalled the Sikh Guru’s vision for a just and inclusive society. While bowing to the Guru Tegh Bahadur,
Prime Minister Modi said that the Sikh guru’s life epitomised courage and compassion. “Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life epitomised courage and compassion.
On his Shaheedi Diwas, I bow to the great Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and recall his vision for a just and inclusive society,” Prime Minister Modi had tweeted.
UP-Delhi border partially
shut amid farm protests
New Delhi: The Delhi-
UP border was partially
shut as the agitation in-
tensified and entered
the 25th day against the
Centre’s contentious
agricultural laws, amid
assurances from the
government on the min-
imum support price
(MSP) for their agricul-
tural produce, a con-
cern repeatedly raised
by the farmers.
The farmers have in-
tensified their stir by
announcing they will
halt toll collection in
Haryana from Decem-
ber 25 to 27. Before that,
the protesters will cele-
brate Kisan Diwas on
December 23. Turn to P6
Birbhum (West Ben-
gal): UnionHomeMinis-
terAmitShahonSunday
saidthattheturnoutof a
sizeable number of peo-
ple in his roadshow at
Birbhum indicated that
people of West Bengal
are “angry” with Chief
MinisterMamataBaner-
jee and want a change.
“Thisroadshowshows
the anger of Bengal’s
public towards Mamata
didi.Peopleof West Ben-
gal want change. It is
not to change just one
Chief Minister. The
change is for develop-
ment and progress and
West Bengal,” Shah said
at a roadshow here.
“West Bengal has set
three dangerous trends
in Indian politics - po-
liticization of adminis-
tration, criminalization
of politics and institu-
tionalizing corruption.
Turn to P6
SHAH PROMISES
Sonar Bangla in 5yrsAngry with Didi, Bengal awaiting
change, says Amit Shah during
massive road show in Birbhum
Shah says TMC’s main slogan of
Ma Mati Manush had given way to
corruption, nepotism & appeasement
Union Home Minister Amit Shah waves to his supporters at a roadshow in Bolpur on Sunday.
Bengal’s next
CM won’t be
an ‘outsider’
Revealing that BJP’s
CM candidate in West
Bengal for Assembly
election 2021 will
be someone from
Bengal, not ‘outsider’
like what Mamata
Banerjee generally
terms BJP’s central
leaders when they
visit the state, Shah
said, “Does she want
a country where peo-
ple from one state will
not visit another? Did
she call Indira Gandhi,
Pranab Mukherjee,
Narasimha Rao
outsiders when they
used to come to West
Bengal? But don’t
worry, someone from
Bengal will challenge
you & be next CM.”
New Delhi: In an effort
to improve Congress’
prospectsinforthcoming
polls, changes are soon
likely to be made in sev-
eral states in the party’s
organisationalstructure.
Telangana, Punjab and
Gujarat Pradesh Con-
gress Committee (PCC)
chief willalsobechanged
in the coming days.
Speaking to ANI,
AICC Telangana in-
charge, Manickam
Tagore said, “We have
started the process of
changing PCC in Telen-
gana because Telanga-
na PCC Uttam Kumar
Reddy has resigned vol-
untarily from his post
taking the responsibili-
ty of the defeat in the
recent GHMC polls.”
Meanwhile, speaking
about the changes in the
Punjab state unit, Con-
gress in-charge of Pun-
jab Harish Rawat said,
“The state PCC is in
place but there is a prep-
aration underway for
district committee for-
mation. That will be
formed as soon as the
environment will be
conducive. A new dis-
trict committee will be
formedoncethefarmers
and Centre resolve the
issue over farm laws.”
Sources told ANI
about the impending
change of PCC chief in
Gujarat. “We are work-
ing on it, at the end of
December we will de-
cidewhetherthechange
of PCC chief in Gujarat
will take place,” a
source said. —ANI
Org changes likely in
Telangana, Punjab &
Gujarat PCC soon
NEPAL PM
DISSOLVES PARL
Kathmandu: Nepal’s
Prime Minister K P
Sharma Oli dissolved
the House of Repre-
sentatives on Sunday,
two years ahead of its
normal tenure, amid
a power tussle within
the ruling Nepal Com-
munist Party. The
decision was taken at
a cabinet meeting this
morning at his resi-
dence after talks with
party co-chairman
and dissident leader
Pushpa Kamal Dahal
Prachanda failed.
Ist vax shot
could by Jan:
Harsh Vardhan
New Delhi: Union
health minister Harsh
Vardhan said on
Sunday that people
of the country could
get a Covid-19 shot
in January. His
remarks comes days
after health ministry
released a document,
answering queries
on vaccination.“Our
first priority has been
safety & effectiveness
of vaccines. I person-
ally feel, maybe in any
week of Jan, we can
be in a position to
give first vax shot to
the people, he said.
KISAN DIWAS ON DEC 23, TOLL COLLECTION
TO BE HALTED IN HARYANA FROM DEC 25
FURTHER TALKS IN A DAY OR TWO: SHAH
Bolpur: Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh
Tomar will likely meet the agitating farmer unions in a
day or two, Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday.
“I am not exactly aware of the timing but Tomar is
likely to meet the representatives of farmers tomorrow
or the day after to discuss their demands,” Shah told a
press conference. —PTI
Jupiter and Saturn will merge in
the night sky Monday, appearing
closer to one another than they
have since Galileo’s time in the
17th century. Being called the
great conjunction as the celestial
marvel was last observed in 1623
and will again take place in 2080.
The two slow-moving planets will
be 0.1 degrees apart. They should
be easily visible around the world
a little after sunset, weather per-
mitting. In India, the conjunction is
likely to be visible between 6.30
and 7.30 pm.
JUPITER AND SATURN
WILL MERGE IN THE
NIGHT SKY ON MONDAY
—PHOTOBYANI

NEWSAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
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WINTER HUES
Shepherds catch up with each other as their sheeps and goats graze on a field near Dholka Highway, on the outskirts of Ahmedabad early on Sunday morning. —PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI
MoS for Law Jadeja takes cautious
approach towards Love Jihad law
Meanwhile, CM Rupani hints that
the state may introduce the law
“at an appropriate time”
First India Bureau
Dahod: With known
political leaders of the
Bharatiya Janata Par-
ty (BJP), such as party
unit president CR Pa-
til, making noise about
implementing the Love
Jihad law in the state,
one person has re-
mained cautious in his
approach to the sub-
ject. Minister of State
for Home and Law
Pradipsinh Jadeja only
stated that the state
government had been
monitoring such inci-
dents and that they
will be dealt with by
invoking existing laws.
The minister avoided
alluding or volunteer-
ing any information
regarding the state
government’s stance
on the issue.
On the other hand,
Chief Minister Vijay
Rupani hinted that the
government will think
about introducing the
law in the state at a
suitable time. “The is-
sue is being debated
across the nation, so it
is natural that people
of Gujarat are also
discussing and de-
manding its imple-
mentation here. But,
the government will
make its decision re-
garding it at the state
legislative assembly
at a more opportune
time.”
Minister of State
for Home and Law
Pradipsinh Jadeja
was in Dahod on Sun-
day, where he told the
mediapersons and
stated, “The state gov-
ernment has been
keeping a close eye on
incidents of love ji-
had, and they will be
dealt with under exist-
ing laws. The state is
intolerant towards
such incidents and
those instigating them
will have to face the
consequences of their
actions.”
Jadeja smartly
avoided hinting or
boldly stating the
state government’s
plan of action regard-
ing the Love Jihad
law, in line with the
resolution passed by
the Uttar Pradesh gov-
ernment.
Meanwhile, the
minister also stated
that there will be no
relaxation in COV-
ID-19 Standard Oper-
ating Procedures
(SOPs) during Christ-
mas, New Year or even
Uttarayan festivities.
Parties will not be al-
lowed at either public
or private places. The
state has no plans to
announce new SOPs
for upcoming festivals
but has reiterated that
the existing SOP
norms will be strictly
implemented.
Minister of State for Home and Law Pradipsinh Jadeja
One Post, One Family: CR Patil
First India Bureau
Vadodara:TheBharati-
ya Janata Party (BJP)
has always claimed to
be a unit with intoler-
ance for ‘parivarwad’
(family war). The party
has maintained that one
person will be granted
one position but now,
state unit president CR
Patil has come up with
a new motto “One Fam-
ily, One Post”. The im-
plementation of this
slogan would threaten
the political survival of
several families in the
state.
On a visit to Va-
dodara on Saturday
evening, Patil ad-
dressed party workers
and categorically stat-
ed, “One Family, One
Post. If one person from
a family holds a post in
the organization, then
none of the other fami-
ly members should at-
tempt to lobby for a
party ticket for any
elections.”
Patil’s statement
comes ahead of local
body elections, with
party workers and lead-
ers busy lobbying for
tickets either in pan-
chayats, nagarpalikas
or municipal corpora-
tions. Interestingly, it is
common practice for
people belonging to the
same families to hold a
post in the party organ-
ization and contest elec-
tions on a party ticket,
especially during talu-
ka and district panchay-
at or municipal corpo-
ration elections.
Thedeclarationmade
by the BJP state unit
president has derailed
the plans of many lead-
ers. But, one of the par-
ty workers, Paresh
Bhatt welcomed the
statement made by Pa-
til, with an apprehen-
sion towards strict im-
plementation of the
new policy.
According to Bhatt,
the policy must not be
limited to party work-
ers or district/city level
leaders. It must also be
adhered to by state or
national leaders, and
include not just family
members, but also first
cousins and distant rel-
atives as well.
Another party work-
er, wishing anonymity,
said, “We have been
taught that charity be-
gins at home. So when
the state unit president
has made a statement
like this, he should set
an example and resign
as Member of Parlia-
ment (MP), only con-
tinuing with his tenure
as the BJP state unit
president.”
NO FAVOURS
BJP & Congress leaders
grace Patidar meeting at
Khodaldham in Rajkot
Pandit Deendayal Clinics to cater to
people living in slums: DyCM Patel
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: With the
objective to strengthen
the organization of the
Leuva Patel community,
a gathering of Patidar
leaders was held at
Khodaldham in Rajkot
district on Sunday. The
meeting was chaired by
Khodaldham Trust
Chairman Naresh Patel
and attended by leaders
of the Bharatiya Janata
Party(BJP)andtheCon-
gress party.
Politicians belonging
to the Saurashtra region
including state Minister
for Food, Civic Supplies
and Consumer Affairs
Jayesh Radadiya, Gor-
dhan Zadafia, Leader of
Opposition Paresh Dha-
nani were present at the
meet. Social media was
flooded with messages of
maskviolationbyattend-
ees of the gathering on
Sunday.
Elaborating on the
topics discussed at the
meeting, Patel said that
the main subject under
discussion was the Leu-
va Patel community and
not politics.
He added that the
meeting had been about
“social” discussion de-
spite the fact that politi-
cal leaders belonging to
the community were
also a part of the event.
“It was a routine meet-
ing which is usually
heldeverythreemonths.
The primary objective
of the gathering is to
strengthen the commu-
nity’s organization,” as-
serted the chairman.
With the district pan-
chayat and civic body
elections round the cor-
ner, such community
meetings stand to play a
vital role in deciding the
future bodies inducted
into local administra-
tions.Itistobenotedthat
afterthe2015Patidaragi-
tation, the rural voters
havebeenagainsttherul-
ing government.
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: A first of
its kind clinic was inau-
gurated by Deputy
Chief Minister Nitin
Patel at Ramapir no
Tekro in Vadaj area of
the city on Sunday. The
Pandit Deendayal Clin-
ics will cater to the med-
ical needs of the under-
privileged citizens liv-
ing in the slum. The
state government plans
to open such clinics in
all municipal corpora-
tions and nagarpalikas
commanding a popula-
tion of more than one
lakh people.
Briefing the media
about the medical fa-
cilities accessible at the
clinic, Patel said,
“These clinics will be
equipped with more fa-
cilities than existing
urban health centres,
akin to an Outpatient
Department (OPD).
Medical staff will be
available at such clinics
from 4 pm to 9 pm.”
He added, “Such clin-
ics were part of the
state budget for 2020-21,
but could not be
launched in the begin-
ning of the financial
year, as the entire state
machinery got busy
handling the COVID-19
pandemic. Now that the
situation is compara-
tively under control,
the government has
launched the first clinic
in Ahmedabad.”
The OPD diagnosis
of patients will be com-
pletely free of cost, but
if any person is diag-
nosed with a serious ill-
ness, they will be re-
ferred to speciality hos-
pitals. The cost of their
treatment will be cov-
ered under the Mukhya
Mantri Amrutam Vats-
alya Yojana, the Prad-
han Mantri Jan Aarog-
ya Yojana or other such
schemes.
The idea behind
starting these clinics to
make medical care ac-
cessible to people liv-
ing in slums, as they
find it difficult to reach
urban health centres or
general hospitals. Also,
as medical emergency
ambulances cannot
reach inside the close-
quartered slums, such
clinics will provide
people who inhabit
them with medical as-
sistance right at their
doorstep, said the
health minister.
All municipal com-
missioners and nagar-
palika executive offic-
ers have been instruct-
ed to determine loca-
tions where such clin-
ics can be established.
While local bodies will
provide infrastructure
for them, the state will
be responsible for the
manpower to run such
clinics across the
state.
Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel interacting with residents of Ramapir no Tekro in Ahmedabad at
the launch of the maiden Pandit Deendayal Clinic on Sunday.
Members of the Leuva Patel community at the gathering.
The BJP state prez declared that if one member of any family is
already serving in the party, others will not be eligible for poll tickets
CR Patil paying his respects to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
(RSS) veteran Keshavlalji Thakkar in Vadodara on Saturday.

GUJARATAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
First India Bureau
Gandhinagar: As
fresh cases of COV-
ID-19 continue to de-
crease, the situation
seems to be improv-
ing in the state. If all
goes well, the new
year may see a fall in
the number of cases
to three-digit num-
bers. On Sunday, the
state reported 1,010
cases of COVID-19,
taking the total tally
to 2,35,2999 cases of
novel coronavirus in-
fection since March
this year.
In the past 24 hours,
Gujarat recorded seven
deaths, of which, the
highest number were
reported in Ahmedabad
(5) followed by one
death each in Surat and
Vadodara. The total
death toll of patients
lost to the ongoing pan-
demic in the state
stands at 4,234.
Ahmedabad (215)
did not budge from
the top spot of record-
ing the highest num-
ber of nCoV cases,
followed by Surat
(166), Vadodara (144),
Rajkot (113), Gandhi-
nagar (42), Mehsana
(32), among other dis-
tricts.
Currently, there are
11,940 active cases in
the state, of which, 61
patients have been put
on ventilator support.
Claiming to have
achieved a recovery
rate of 93.13%, the state
has seen a fall in num-
ber of COVID-19 cases
reported as compared
to the first week of De-
cember.
A total of 2.19 lakh
people have recovered
from the virus in the
state so far.
Meanwhile, in Surat,
over 1,250 employees of
the Surat Municipal
Corporation (SMC)
have tested positive for
COVID-19 till now. Of
these, 1,201 have recov-
ered and resumed their
duties. Around 25 em-
ployees are currently
undergoing treatment
for the virus and 24
have succumbed to it.
Maliben Premjibhai
Sumra, a 57-year-old
sanitation worker, who
had tested positive for
COVID-19, resumed her
duties after 17 days of
treatment. “Who will
do the cleaning if we
forget to do our duty in
such dire circumstanc-
es? The cleanliness of
the city is our duty. Peo-
ple should realize that
and not venture out of
their homes without
wearing masks,” she
said.
Gujarat records only 1,010 fresh COVID-19 cases in 24 hours
BATTLING THE VIRUS

A fall in num-
bers may mean
improved situ-
ation even as
seven fatalities
take the total
death toll to
4,234; SMC
workers resume
duties post
recovery
Maliben Premjibhai Sumra, the sanitation worker who resumed
her duties after undergoing treatment for nCoV for 17 days.
Congress leader asks govt to
cease surveillance of farmers
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: On the
25th day of the ongo-
ing farmers’ agita-
tion at Delhi’s Sing-
hu border, farmer
leader of Congress
party Pal Ambaliya
asked the Gujarat
government to with-
draw police surveil-
lance on farmers
and enable them to
join the movement
in the national capi-
tal. As of now, more
than 500 farmers
from Gujarat have
jumped on the dem-
onstrating bandwag-
on.
A meeting was held
in Rajkot on Sunday
where Gujarat
Pradesh Congress
Committee (GPCC)
working president
Hardik Patel, former
Congress MLA from
Rajkot Indranil Rajy-
aguru, and Gujarat
Kisan Congress presi-
dent Pal Ambaliya,
counselled farmers to
join the protest in Del-
hi.
Talking about the
protests, Ambaliya
said that the stage
was being set for
more farmers from
Gujarat to join the
movement. “Over
10,000 farmers from
Gujarat are set to
travel to Delhi. The
government must
call off the police
watch on farmers,”
asserted the leader.
Farmers have set
up a 35 km-long line of
tractors on the Delhi
Indus border. Talking
about the demonstra-
tion near Rajasthan,
Ambaliya added, “The
farmers have created a
two-kilometre line of
tractors along the Ra-
jasthan-Haryana bor-
der which has been
open for the past four
days. Around 10 to 12
lakh farmers have
joined the movement
so far. Of these, around
350 to 400 farmers hail
from Gujarat. The ag-
ricultural workers are
adamant about with-
drawal of the new
farming laws. The agi-
tation of farmers on
the Delhi border will
continue till the gov-
ernment rolls back the
legal resolutions. The
Gujarat Kisan Sang-
harsh Samiti will take
farmers from Gujarat
to Delhi.”
Women belonging
to the Maldhari
community of Guja-
rat have also joined
the movement.
Farmers have been
singing Gujarati
songs in their tents
amidst bitter cold to
keep their spirits
up, said the Gujarat
Kisan Congress
president.
Farmers protesting the three new farming laws have held demonstrations across the nation,
including the burning of an efﬁgy in Ahmedabad. —FILE PHOTO
SHANKERSINH THREATENS INDEFINITE HUNGER STRIKE
LoP asks state to increase
stipend for intern docs
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: Leader
of Opposition
Paresh Dhanani in a
letter to state Health
Minister Nitin Patel
asked for increment
in the incentive al-
lowance for intern
doctors working in
government hospi-
tals.
Dhanani stated that
the monthly stipend
for interns should in-
crease to at least
Rs20,000. This request
comes after the state
government decided
to pay an incentive al-
lowance of Rs5,000 per
month to interns with
effect from April this
year.
“The intern doc-
tors have been serv-
ing COVID-19 pa-
tients since March.
There are people,
who along with oth-
er paramedical staff,
need to receive some
incentive for the
work they have been
doing during the on-
going pandemic. I
urge you to grant it
to them for their ser-
vice immediately,”
asserted Dhanani.
He further said that
the state cabinet min-
isters should take into
consideration the de-
mands of Manish
Doshi, Chief Spokes-
person of the Con-
gress party, who had
demanded a one-se-
mester fee waiver for
government-run med-
ical colleges.
“With classes not
being conducted on
campuses, uncertain-
ty looms over the re-
sumption of the cur-
rent academic session
of medical colleges. At
such difficult times,
we request you to con-
sider our demand for a
fee waiver. The gov-
ernment must take a
call in favour of thou-
sands of middle-class
families,” Dhanani
added.
Two arrested from Mount
Abu for eloping with minor
Man bites off father-
in-law’s thumb during
argument, fleesFirst India Bureau
Ahmedabad: Two peo-
ple have been arrest-
ed by Gujarat Univer-
sity police from
neighbouring state
Rajasthan’s Mount
Abu for allegedly
eloping with a minor
girl.
According to police
officials, the two ac-
cused, identified as
Yash Barot (21) and
Nilay Shah (24), were
with a minor girl when
they were apprehended.
Police Inspector VJ
Jadeja told mediaper-
sons that a minor
girl’s parents had
lodged a missing per-
son’s complaint stat-
ing that their daugh-
ter had gone missing.
After reviewing
CCTV footage, police
officials said that
they found that the
Class X student was
in the company of
four men.
Thepolicefirsttraced
the vehicle owner’s
name and then his mo-
bile numbers and loca-
tion. After getting infor-
mation about the mo-
bile location of the car
owner, they zeroed in
on the place they were
staying at in Mount
Abu.
Then, a team of Guja-
rat University police
personnel was dis-
patched to the hill sta-
tion, where two accused
and the girl were put
under arrest. All three
were brought to the city
and sent for medical ex-
aminations upon their
arrival.
During primary
questioning, the girl
told police officials
that she had come in
contact with the ac-
cused through the so-
cial media platform
called Snapchat and
befriended them.
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: After an
argument over mari-
tal dispute turned vi-
olent, a man allegedly
bit off part of his fa-
ther-in-law’s thumb
in Shahpur area of
the city. The man then
fled the scene and we
launched a search for
him, police officials
said.
Rajesh Dantani filed
a complaint against his
son-in-law Rahul, alias
Montu, in which he has
alleged that his daugh-
ter Puja is married to
Rahul, but that they
have disputes over do-
mestic issues.
After a big fight with
her husband, Puja had
returned to her pater-
nal home. When Rahul
visited Dantani’s home
in Shahpur on Friday
evening, he started ar-
guing with him.
According to Dan-
tani’s allegations,
during a heated argu-
ment, Rahul first bit
his thumb and then
cut it off from the
hand and fled away.
The complainant was
immediately rushed
to Civil Hospital for
treatment. He lodged
a complaint with the
Civil Hospital police
chowky, from where
the case was trans-
ferred to Shahpur po-
lice station.
Shahpur police have
registered a complaint
against Rahul aka Mon-
tu under various Indian
Penal Code (IPC) sec-
tions and also initiated
an investigation into
the case.
Farmer leader Pal Ambaliya has claimed that over 10K farmers will travel to Delhi from Guj
Yash Barot & Nilay Shah in police custody.
HEAVENLY MASTERSTROKES
A cycle-rickshaw puller pedals on the road near Patang- The Revolving Restaurant, against
the backdrop of a glorious pink hued sky in Ahmedabad on Sunday evening.
—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI
Intern doctors demonstrating for increment in stipend at BJ Medical College campus in
Ahmedabad. —FILE PHOTO
A’bad Univ police
traced the vehicle
used for the crime
and the mobile
numbers of the
accused

G Vol 2 G Issue No. 27 G 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-In-Chief: Jagdeesh Chandra. Editor: Anita Hada Sangwan responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act
PERSPECTIVEAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
NEITHER SIDE IS
READY TO BLINK,
PROTESTSCONTINUE
ith farmers so far uncompromis-
ing on their demand for the repeal
of three agriculture reforms Acts
passed by the government, Prime
Minister Narendra Modi paid a
surprise visit to Delhi’s Gurudwara Rakab-
ganj on Sunday to pay tributes to Guru Tegh
Bahadur whose death anniversary was ob-
served on Saturday. After the visit the prime
minister tweeted, “This morning, I prayed at
the historic Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib,
where the pious body of Sri Guru Tegh Baha-
dur ji was cremated. I felt extremely blessed.
I, like millions around the world, am deeply
inspired by the kindness of Sri Guru Tegh
Bahadur ji.”
While the prime minister paid obeisance
at the gurudwara, farmers at the Singhu bor-
der observed “Shraddhanjali Diwas” (day of
tribute) for the 20 protesters who died during
the 25 days of protests. Farmers were upbeat
about the success of their blockage of Delhi-
Jaipur Highway. On Saturday they an-
nounced blocking the Ghazipur-Delhi border.
A relay hunger strike is also planned from
Monday. Protesters have also appealed to peo-
ple to skip a meal on December 23, which is
the Farmers Day.
Their continued agitation is a sign farmers
are unmoved by the prime minister’s assur-
ance that “…talk about MSP ending after the
new laws is the biggest lie ever. I want to as-
sure every farmer across India that MSP is
here to stay.” While addressing a group of
farmers in Madhya Pradesh also said that the
government was willing to address their con-
cerns and allay all fears “with our heads
bowed, our hands folded”. In a strong riposte
farmers said they were tired of PM’s Mann
ki Baat and that he should now listen to
theirs.
The government’s carrot and stick policy
of willingness to allay their fears and in-
come-tax raids on some commission agents
(arhatiyas) in Punjab has not gone down
well with the protesters who condemned the
action and called it “vendetta”. The raids
were conducted with the Central Reserve
Police Force personnel in tow. The state po-
lice were not taken into confidence. In Uttar
Pradesh pro-protesters were fined Rs 50
lakhs each. While ED raids may be justified,
the timing and the message it sends is
wrong. The fine on UP farmers is draconian
as it is an attack on their fundamental right
to protest which even the Supreme Court
has allowed.
The advantage that governments have is
their vast powers. The protesters’ main dis-
advantage is that they could not get support
from farmers to the extent which they may
have expected. If there is no compromise,
the government may not allow the protests
to continue endlessly. The farmers too will
realise the futility of their sit-in and the
prolonged stalemate if the government re-
mains firm on its stand. Both sides must
understand that negotiations are the only
way out.
IN-DEPTH
W
rowth is vital for any com-
pany to flourish. Many com-
panies are moving ahead
with a good percentage of
growth year after year, while
few companies are strug-
gling to achieve growth.
Usually, there are three im-
portant factors that lead to
a company’s growth: The
sale of products and their
current availability in the
marketplace, the launch of
new products, and the indus-
try segment’s growth. Out
of these three major factors,
even if one suffers a nega-
tive impact, it directly af-
fects the company’s produc-
tivity and growth. Achiev-
ing an eminent position in
the market, every year there
has to be positive and con-
sistent growth in the com-
pany’s valuation. The valua-
tion depends primarily on
the company’s turnover,
profit, and financials.
Every year is not the same
and the market changes are
most unpredictable, which di-
rectly affects the results and
performance of the company.
For consistent growth, a good
alternative is a right acquisi-
tion, which means wherever
there is the possibility of ac-
quiring companies that are
witnessing a boom, grab the
opportunity and acquire such
companies.
By doing so, the company
gets an opportunity of
growth on parallel grounds,
with the other’s company’s
turnover merging and mul-
tiplying. It is a win-win situ-
ation at both ends, which
eventually leads to an in-
crease in the valuation of
the company. The important
factor is when the company
is financially strong and if
you wish to take over anoth-
er company, then you need to
be careful about certain as-
pects. For right acquisition,
you should never opt for
buying a company with the
intent of investment alone.
Your goal should be the com-
pany’s growth. Let’s talk
about a famous example in
this regard.
Henry Kravis, the founder of
KKR Company, stands amongst
one of the best share broking
firms in the world. He is known
for acquiring small and big
companies. His views on right
acquisition are very distinct.
He opines, “When I buy a com-
pany with millions of dollars,
there is no need to congratulate
me. When I make the company
profitable and sell it at a higher
price, then I am truly success-
ful.” Task out of the ordinary
is the real challenge!
In Kravis’ words, “My
Company works on a huge
canvas. KKR always hunts
for companies that are ideal
for acquisition. We don’t get
influenced by attractive
presentations, instead give
more prominence to ground
realities and rooted facts.
We count on experience, cap-
ital, and products that have
a bright future, with the
right combination of infra-
structural facilities and
strength to compete with
other companies. Whenever
there is talk about the acqui-
sition, we keep that compa-
ny’s staff and management
in confidence. This has
played a vital role in our suc-
cess story.”
“Recently we have success-
fully sized the deals with com-
panies from varied fields. Ho-
tels, Media, Oil & Gas, Retail,
etc. but our goal is clear that it
must be the right acquisition.
We do not make hasty deci-
sions but are also vigilant of
the fact that actions are taken
timely and appropriately, wher-
ever required. You must pos-
sess the skill to identify the
right opportunity. Sometimes
everything appears perfect on
the surface, but you should
have a balancing attitude, right
aptitude, and sixth sense to as-
sess the situation for a perfect
deal.”
The gist is that for the
company’s growth, the right
acquisition is most impor-
tant. To invest in the right
company is of crucial im-
portance. This calls for an
in-depth approach. If you
have the ability to gauge the
market moves, then right ac-
quisition wouldn’t be a dif-
ficult task for you. The right
acquisition is important but
if you don’t have knowledge
of a particular industry,
then you should not venture
into it as this will only make
matters worse
During the process of acqui-
sition, keeping the company’s
staff in confidence is crucial.
Eventually, these are the people
who are going to contribute to
your company’s performance.
THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY
THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL
RIGHT ACQUISITION
IS ESSENTIAL TO INCREASE THE
VALUATION OF A COMPANY
G
Every year is not
the same and the
market changes
are most
unpredictable,
which directly
affects the results
and performance
of the company.
For consistent
growth, a good
alternative is a
right acquisition,
which means
wherever there is
the possibility of
acquiring
companies that
are witnessing a
boom, grab the
opportunity and
acquire such
companies
THE GIST IS THAT FOR
THE COMPANY’S
GROWTH, THE RIGHT
ACQUISITION IS MOST
IMPORTANT. TO
INVEST IN THE RIGHT
COMPANY IS OF
CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE.
THIS CALLS FOR AN IN-
DEPTH APPROACH. IF
YOU HAVE THE ABILITY
TO GAUGE THE MARKET
MOVES, THEN THE RIGHT
ACQUISITION WOULDN’T
BE A DIFFICULT TASK
FOR YOU
ince the first
A c a d e m y
Awards cere-
mony in 1929,
n o n - E n g l i s h
films from all over the
world used to compete for a
nomination in one single
category, best foreign film,
as all the other Oscars tra-
ditionally went to Ameri-
can and, sometimes, Brit-
ish productions. But in
2019, Netflix’s Spanish-lan-
guage “Roma” was nomi-
nated for best picture. It
won for best director and,
as predicted, best foreign
film. This year, the first
non-English feature won
best picture, Bong Joon-
ho’s Korean film “Para-
site.”
The Oscars may be just
following a much bigger
trend in entertainment in
the past few years, with
non-English-language
shows becoming interna-
tional hits even in markets
like the US and the UK that
don’t consume a lot of
dubbed or subtitled con-
tent. The American review
website Rotten Tomatoes
chose Netflix’s first Ger-
man-language show,
“Dark,” as the best Netflix
Original series among 63
competitors, getting 80%
of the 2.5 million votes,
against English-language
hits like “Mindhunters”
and “The Crown.”
BOUND TO LEAD
Latin and, much later,
French, were the interna-
tional languages for diplo-
macy, the theater and lit-
erature. British imperial
power put the English lan-
guage at the center of
world affairs and, right as
that empire faded, Ameri-
can dominance reinforced
its importance. But it was
Hollywood’s soft power
over the 20th century that
made the English language
seductive and attractive
the world over.
Hollywood shaped the
preferences of a large
number of audiences for
English-language films
and TV shows since the
creation of the studios in
the 1910s. Other countries
took advantage of that.
The British Council, estab-
lished in 1934 and current-
ly presented in over 100
countries, invests in keep-
ing the English language a
powerful medium in which
the arts, diplomacy, enter-
tainment, science and tech-
nology are conducted.
LEAVING THE
TELENOVELA BEHIND
Netflix, which is represent-
ed in 190 countries, has be-
come one of the main pro-
ducers of foreign-language
hits, with other shows
breaking the English bar-
rier, such as the Turkish
“The Protector,” French
“Osmosis,” Polish “The
Woods” and South Korea’s
“Kingdom.” According to
Louis Brennan, a professor
at Trinity College, Dublin,
who researches Netflix’s
international expansion,
the success of non-English
language shows can be ex-
plained by the natural ap-
peal of local products, to-
gether with a tendency to-
ward broader and more
diverse tastes of consum-
ers in the 21st century.
In the US, the viewer-
ship of non-English titles
on Netflix increased 50%
this year compared with
2019 and the consumption
of dubbed films and shows
is rising 120% every year,
according to some of the
very few audience statis-
tics the company shares.
SOURCE: FAIR OBSERVER
FOREIGN-LANGUAGE ENTERTAINMENT
IS HAVING ITS SOFT-POWER MOMENT
S
One moment can change a
day, one day can change a
life and one life can change
the world. —Buddha
Spiritual
SPEAK
Top
TWEET
Prakash Javadekar
@PrakashJavdekar
Happy to note that population of
cranes has grown by 15% in a
year in Purvanchal & the declining
trend has been stemmed as a
steady increase is observed.
Cranes play a vital role in
ecological balance by controlling
the population of harmful insects.
Ravi Shankar Prasad
@rsprasad
The @narendramodi govt is
committed for doubling farmers’
income.The govt made payment
to the farmers for pulses with
an increase of 7217% in MSP
from 2009-14 to 2014-20.
#ModiWithFarmers
BHAVESH
UPADHYAY
BUSINESS/ HR EXPERT

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INDIAAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
DELHI COLD INTENSIFIES BUT
PROTESTING FARMERS UNDETERRED
2 BENGALI FILMS SELECTED FOR
INDIAN PANORAMA SECTION OF IFFI
Kolkata: Two Bengali fea-
ture films have been se-
lected for the prestigious
Indian Panorama section
of International Film
Festival of India. Director
of one of the films Aritra
Mukherjee said his first
film ‘Brahma Janen Go-
pon Kommoti’ has been
selected for the Indian
Panorama section of IFFI,
Goa. The film stars Ritab-
hari Chakraborty, Soham
Majumdar, Manasi Sinha
& Subhasish Mukherjee
among others. Scripted
by Zinia Sen film breaks
stereotypes about women
not made for certain
professions like priests.
Another film ‘Avijatrik’,
which was based on the
concluding part of Bibhut-
ibhusan Bandyopadhyay’s
novel Aparajito.
RAGHAV CHADHA IS NEW CO-
INCHARGE OF AAP’S PB UNIT
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi
Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday
congratulated Raghav Chadha on being appointed
as co-incharge of party’s Punjab unit. “Congratu-
lations and best wishes to Raghav Chadha for
being appointed as seh-prabhari of Punjab,” the
CM tweeted. Earlier in the day, party’s Punjab
unit tweeted, “AAP MLA from Rajinder Nagar and
vice-chairman of Delhi Jal Board Raghav Chadha
has been appointed as co-incharge of Aam Aadmi
Party, Punjab.”
‘1st FLIGHT FROM NOIDA AIRPORT
LIKELY BY DEC 2023 OR JAN 2024’
Noida: Work on the
upcoming Noida Interna-
tional Airport is progress-
ing as scheduled and the
first flight is expected to
take off by Dec 2023 or
Jan 2024, a senior gov-
ernment executive said on
Sunday. Also, the reset-
tlement and rehabilitation
of over three thousand
families who are getting
displaced due to the mega
greenfield project is likely
to be completed by May
2021, Noida International
Airport Limited (NIAL)
CEO Arun Vir Singh said.
UP CM Yogi Adityanath
had on December 18 ap-
proved the name, design
and the logo of the airport
being built in Jewar area
along the Yamuna Ex-
pressway in the Gautam
Buddh Nagar district.
MUMBAI: DRUGS WORTH RS 33
LAKH SEIZED, 2 ARRESTED
Mumbai: The Ghatkopar Unit of Anti-Narcotics
Cell of Mumbai Police seized 66,000 drug pills
worth Rs 33 lakh from the possession of two
persons on Saturday. Police arrested the ac-
cused Shah Rukh Rashid Sheikh and Abdullah
Moin Sheikh from Shivaji Nagar. DCP (ANC)
Datta Nalavde said, “66,000 tablets of the brand
Nitravet 10 has been recovered from two per-
sons. The tablet contains Nitrazepamare which
is mainly prescribed for the treatment of sleep
disorder and anxiety.
ENJOYING THE CHILL...
Tourists visit Rohtang Pass as winter cold sets in near Manali on Sunday. —PHOTO BY PTI
New Delhi: Thousands
of farmers protesting at
Delhi borders against
the Centre’s new agri
laws remained firm in
their demands of re-
pealing the legislations,
evenasthecityrecorded
its coldest morning this
season, with the mercu-
ry dipping to 3.4 degrees
Celsius on Sunday.
According to IMD, a
cold wave swept Delhi
on Sunday. The Safdar-
jungObservatory,which
provides representative
data for the city, record-
ed a minimum of 3.4 de-
grees Celsius, five
notches below the nor-
mal, on Sunday morn-
ing, an IMD official said.
The maximum tempera-
ture is likely to settled
around 22 degrees Cel-
sius, the official said.
The farmers’ agitation,
which has entered its
fourth week, has also
led to traffic diversions
at various border points
causing inconvenience
to commuters. —PTI
Farmers gather at Singhu border during their sit-in protest against Centre’s farm reform laws in New Delhi.
Pradhan dedicates WB’s
1ST
oil, gas reserve to nation
Ashoknagar: West
Bengal found a place in
the oil map of India as
Union Minister Dhar-
mendra Pradhan on
Sunday dedicated an oil
and gas producing field
in North 24 Parganas
district to the nation.
He said production
from the petroleum re-
serve here, about 47 km
from Kolkata, has start-
ed with extracted oil be-
ing sent to Haldia refin-
ery of Indian Oil Corpo-
ration (IOC).
“With the commence-
mentof productionfrom
the Ashoknagar oil and
gasreserve,WestBengal
finds a place in the oil
map,” he said after inau-
gurating the project.
The first proven re-
serve of oil and gas in
the state was discov-
ered in 2018.
TheAshoknagarfield,
which falls under the
Mahanadi- Bengal-An-
daman(MBA)basin,has
been proved to be com-
merciallyviable,hesaid.
PSUmajorONGChad
spent Rs 3,381 crore for
discovery of the
Ashoknagar oilfield, he
said, adding that two
more wells will be ex-
plored by the company
under OLAP. Crude oil
discovered at Ashokna-
gar reserve is of high
quality, he added.
He said commercial
production from oil-
field will increase West
Bengal’’s revenue and
create job opportuni-
ties. The petroleum &
natural gas minister
said this would be the
eighth hydrocarbon
producing basin of In-
dia, & ONGC took “a
step by commencing oil
production under the
early monetisation plan
of government.” —PTI
Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates the Oil & Gas project at Ashok Nagar on Sunday.
Revamp forest dept in Delhi,says NGT
Nirav Modi’s
brother Nehal
charged for
$2.6 mn fraud
New York: Nehal Modi,
the younger brother of
fugitive diamantaire
Nirav Modi, has been
indicted here for fraud-
ulently obtaining dia-
monds worth over USD
2.6 million from one of
the world’s biggest dia-
mond companies in
Manhattan.
Nehal, 41, is charged
in a New York Supreme
Court indictment with
Grand Larceny in the
First Degree, Manhat-
tan District Attorney
Cy Vance, Jr. said.
“While diamonds
maybe forever, this
flawed scheme was not,
and now Modi will face
the clarity of a New
York Supreme Court in-
dictment. My Office
will not allow individu-
als who have the privi-
lege of soliciting busi-
ness in Manhattan’s
iconic diamond indus-
try to defraud our busi-
nesses or consumers,”
Vance said in a state-
ment on Friday. —PTI
New Delhi: The Nation-
alGreenTribunal(NGT)
hasdirectedtheauthori-
ties concerned to re-
vamp the forest depart-
ment in Delhi appropri-
ately for the protection
of environment and a
meaningful enforce-
ment of the rule of law.
A bench headed by
NGT Chairperson Jus-
tice Adarsh Kumar
Goel took note of a re-
port filed by the Princi-
pal Chief Conservator
of Forests, Department
of Forests on the issue
of filling of posts.
According to the re-
port, the sanctioned
posts were taken out of
the purview of the Delhi
Subordinate Services
Selection Board
(DSSSB) and the Depart-
ment of Forest and
Wildlife,Governmentof
NCT of Delhi undertook
the process of recruit-
ment of a total of 226
vacant sanctioned posts
of four forest rangers,
211 forest guards and 11
wildlife guards.
“The online testing &
assessment services
were outsourced to Ed-
CIL India Limited, a
Mini-Ratna Public Sec-
tor Enterprise under
Ministry of Human Re-
source Development, on
Nov 14, 2019. —PTI
DHARMENDRA
PRADHAN
@DPRADHANBJP
Flagged-off seismic data
acquisition operation in
Block WB- ONN- 2005/4
for further appraisal and
location of oil & gas
resources at Ashoknagar.
We are committed to
usher in unprecedented
development in Bengal
and also make India self-
reliant in energy.
CENTRE TO TELL BENEFITS OF
NEW FARM LAWS IN LOCAL LINGO
PARL SESSION CANCELLED TO AVOID
DEBATE ON FARMERS’ STIR: RAUT
SEEING NO HEADWAY IN TALKS
WITH GOVT: FARMERS’ UNION
New Delhi: Modi government is reaching out to
farmers, with Union Agriculture Minister Narendra
Singh Tomar’s eight-page letter to protestors being
translated into various vernacular languages. Letter
which was written primarily for Hindi speaking states
will now be circulated among farming community in
an effort to garner their support for Central farm laws
explain issues in detail in a language familiar to them.
Mumbai: Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut claimed the winter ses-
sion of Parliament was cancelled to avoid a debate on
the ongoing farmers’ protest against the Centre’s new
farm laws. In his weekly column ‘Rokhthok’ in the Sena
mouthpiece ‘Saamana’, Raut also questioned the
need for spending “Rs 1,000 crore” on Central
Vista project when the Narendra Modi govern-
ment was not interested in holding debates &
Parliament session. Thousands of farmers
have been protesting at Delhi borders since
Nov 26 against Centre’s new agri laws.
New Delhi: Manjit Singh Rai, President of Bharatiya
Kisan Union at Singhu border told, “The government
is delaying our matter unnecessarily. They should
have repealed laws by now & send farmers back to
their homes. Although the government has stated
that before the new year begins there would be a
solution, however pragmatically speaking, we are
not seeing anything hopeful or even close to that.”
FARMERS PAY TRIBUTE TO
THOSE WHO DIED DURING STIR
New Delhi: Farmers protesting at the borders
of the national capital on Sunday observed
Shradhanjali Diwas to pay tributes to those
who lost their lives during the protest against
the Centre’s farm laws. Farmer Union lead-
ers have claimed that over 20 of their fellow
agitators have lost their lives in the duration of
the protest, and continued to demand that the
three ‘black laws’ be taken back. “Twenty-two
people have lost their lives while protesting at
the borders, and about ten have died at pro-
tests back home. They have given their lives for
this cause. We have taken an oath to not stop
the protest till the three farm laws are taken
back,” a farmer at the Nirankari Samagam
ground in Burari told ANI. —ANI
PUNJAB FARMER COMMITS SUICIDE
Chandigarh: A 22-year-old Punjab farmer, who
returned from a protest site near Delhi border,
has allegedly committed suicide after consuming
some poisonous substance, police said. Gurlabh
Singh, a resident of Dayalpura Mirza village of
Bathinda district, had been part of protest near
Delhi border. He had returned to his village on Friday.

INDIAAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
UP-Delhi border...
The farmers have urged
people to skip cooking
their lunch to show
their solidarity with
the movement, said
Bharatiya Kisan Union
leader Rakesh Tikait.
The protesters have
partially blocked the
Delhi-Meerut highway
and warned the govern-
ment to allow free pas-
sage to the farmers
coming to join them
from other states. They
said they will block the
highway completely in
the next 24 hours if
their demands are not
met.
The protesting farm-
ers will organise a day-
long relay hunger
strike Monday and
block all toll collection
on the national high-
ways in Haryana from
December 25-27.
Union Minister VK
Singh on Sunday said
the on going protests by
farmers against the
three Central farm laws
was “more political” in
nature and underlined
the NDA government’s
intent to ensure the
welfare of the ryots.
Speaking to report-
ers in Thanjavur ahead
of his interaction with
farmers, the Minister
of State for Road Trans-
port and Highways
claimed that “actual
farmers are very happy
with what has been
done in last six
months.”
Medical staff of dif-
ferent hospitals in Pun-
jab have reached Sing-
hu border (Delhi-Hary-
ana border). “We’re
here to support agitat-
ing farmers but we all
are ready to serve if
anyone falls ill,” said
Harshdeep Kaur, who is
working as a staff
nurse at a hospital in
Ludhiana.
Shah promises...
All these three trends
are dangerous for de-
mocracy and people of
the state,” Shah said
while urging the people
to join the BJP jugger-
naut so that there could
be change.
“I have not seen a
roadshow like this in
my life. This roadshow
shows love and trust of
people of Bengal to-
wards Prime Minister
Narendra Modi. People
of Bengal want change.
Give one chance to Nar-
endra Modi. We will
make ‘Sonar Bangla’ in
five years,” he added.
He added,that the
state’s ruling Trina-
mool Congress had
turned into a family-
party.
He was on a two-day
visit to West Bengal to
bolster the BJP’s cam-
paign in poll-bound
Bengal. Shah has set a
target of winning more
than 200 out of the 294
seats in the state assem-
bly.
Accompanying Shah
at the roadshow here
was state BJP chief
Dilip Ghosh and other
party leaders.
Shah further said,
“This change is to stop
the infiltration from
Bangladesh. This
change is to stop the
violence in the state. It
is to stop the toll taxes.
The change is to end
the nephew’s dadagiri
(in an apparent refer-
ence to Trinamool Con-
gress (TMC) MP and
Mamata Banerjee’s
nephew Abhishek Ba-
nerjee).”
“We will take Bengal
on an onward path. We
will make a Bengal of
Subhash Babu’s
dreams. Wherever BJP
has got an opportunity
the states have devel-
oped,” he added.
Earlier in the day,
Amit Shah also visited
Visva-Bharati Univer-
sity in Santiniketan
and paid floral tribute
to Rabindranath
Tagore at Rabindra
Bhavan. He also visited
the residence of a ‘Baul’
(Bengali folk) singer in
Bolpur & was treated to
a traditional Bengali
lunch. He listened with
rapt attention as Bas-
udeb Das Baul and his
family performed a
popular folk song
‘Tomay Hrid Majhare
Rakhbo’ with ‘ektara’
(single-stringed folk in-
strument). —ANI
AMC
commissioner...
wing whose tenure end-
ed in December and the
matter has reached the
chief minister. Now,
with no local politi-
cians hindering work,
he wants abundant
power to take decisions
which cannot be
changed later,” added
the source.
MoH calls...
The World Health Or-
ganisation’s India rep-
resentative Roderico H
Ofrin, who is also a
member of the moni-
toring group, is likely
to participate in the
meeting.
The Netherlands
has imposed a ban on
UK flights and Bel-
gium said it would fol-
low suit. Germany,
too, was considering a
similar move as “a se-
rious option” for
flights from both Brit-
ain and South Africa,
where another variant
was discovered.
FROM PG 1
New Delhi: The Coro-
navirus (COVID-19) ac-
tive caseload in India
has dropped to 3.05
lakh, comprising just
3.04 per cent of the total
infections as on date,
the Union Health Min-
istry said on Sunday.
The new recoveries
of 29,690 in a span of
24 hours have led to a
net decline of 3,407 in
the total active cases,
it said.
The ministry said
that ten states and UTs
including Maharash-
tra, Kerala, West Ben-
gal, Uttar Pradesh,
Chhattisgarh and Kar-
nataka account for 66
per cent of the total
active cases in the
country.
Indian states of Ma-
harashtra, Andhra
Pradesh, Karnataka,
Tamil Nadu and Kerala
continued to remain at
top with the highest
number of coronavirus
(Covid-19) cases record-
ed till date, while the
country’s infection tal-
ly crossed the 10 million
mark on Saturday, ac-
cording to the health
ministry.
A total of 26,624 cases
and 341 deaths were re-
ported in India in 24
hours, according to the
health ministry dash-
board on Sunday morn-
ing. As many as
95,804,02 people have
recovered and 145,477
have died due to the vi-
rus in the country. —PTI
COVID-19 CONTINUES TO RAVAGE FIVE STATESMaharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu & Kerala continued to remain at top with the highest number of cases recorded till date
A health worker collects a nasal swab sample from a man to conduct his Rapid Antigen test for Covid-19, in Srinagar on Sunday.
Sabarimala
opens for 5000
pilgrims from
December 26
Kerala: Post December
26, devotees will be al-
lowed to visit Sabarimala
hill shrine only after pro-
ducing a COVID-negative
certificate following an
RT-PCR test, the Travan-
core Devaswom Board
(TDB) said, even as the
Kerala High Court granted
permission to allow
5,000 pilgrims to visit the
temple from Sunday. TDB
president N Vasu said
devotees must carry a
COVID-19-negative certifi-
cate after conducting an
RT-PCR test not more than
48 hours prior to their visit
to the temple. “In view of
the Makaravilakku festival
season from December
31 to January 19, 2021,
devotees who do not
have an RT-PCR-negative
certificate will not be
allowed to climb the hill,”
the board president said.
Earlier, negative certificate
from antigen test was
enough for the devotees
to visit the shrine. —ANI
MAHARASHTRAGOVTMAKESMASKS
MANDATORY FOR NEXT 6 MONTHS
Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray
said wearing masks will be mandatory for the
next 6 months in the state.Addressing people
on social media, Thackeray said experts are
in favour of imposing night curfew or another
lockdown, but he is not in favour of these steps.
The situation in the state is under control,
through not completely, he said. "Prevention
is better than cure. Wearing of mask at public
places should be made a habit for another six
months at least," Thackeray said. —PTI
New Delhi: In a bid to
boost tourism at cen-
trally protected monu-
ments and sites, the
Archaeological Survey
of India, under the
Ministry of Culture,
has decided to remove
the cap on the number
of visitors. However,
the total number of
visitors to be allowed
inside the sites will be
decided by the con-
cerned Superintending
Archaeologist.
ASI to remove
cap on number
of visitors
New Delhi: The ED on
Sunday conducted mul-
tiple searches in Delhi-
NCR in connection with
its probe into two mon-
ey laundering cases and
arrested a person in the
Noida ‘Bike Bot’ ponzi
scheme, officials said.
The raids were car-
ried out at six locations
in Delhi, Noida, Ghazi-
abad and Hapur by offi-
cials from Enforcement
Directorate’s (ED) Luc-
know zone.
ED Joint Director
(Lucknow zone) Rajesh-
war Singh confirmed
the search action in the
two cases -- ‘Bike Bot’
case and the money
laundering investiga-
tion against real estate
major Amrapali Group.
In the first case, the
agency said it searched
four premises and ar-
rested former director
of F7 Broadcast Pvt Ltd,
Manoj Tyagi, under the
provisions of the Pre-
vention of Money Laun-
dering Act. His role is
under scanner in the
‘Bike Bot’ case linked to
its promoter company
Garvit Innovative Pro-
moters Ltd. The agency
also searched the prem-
ises linked to Anil Ku-
mar Saha, promoter
and director of Saha
Infratech Pvt Ltd, in the
same case. “The two
companies have been
found to have received
crores of rupees from
the funds collected from
Bike Bot investors to-
wards investment in
real estate and other-
wise, without any prop-
er agreement or docu-
mentation. “Several in-
criminating docu-
ments, electronic de-
vices and Rs 9.5 lakh
cash have been seized
during the raids,” the
ED said. Tyagi will be
produced before a spe-
cial PMLA court in Luc-
know on Monday by the
ED for seeking his cus-
tody, the officials said.
“Tyagi is a close as-
sociate of one of the
main accused in the
case, Vijender Singh
Hooda, and has been ar-
rested for facilitating
financial transactions
running into several
crores of rupees and
concealing material
facts related to the case
and misleading the
agency,” the ED alleged.
The agency claimed
that a sum of about Rs
13.41 crore “has been
transferred to F7 Broad-
cast from various com-
panies related to Bike
Bot”. “In addition,
around Rs 2.63 crore
have been transferred to
this company from vari-
ous educational institu-
tions and trusts. —PTI
ED conducts multiple
raids in Delhi-NCR, nabs
one in ‘Bike Bot’ scam
New Delhi: The Law
Ministry has asked
states to set up special
courts to settle disputes
related to infrastruc-
ture project contracts
under a law which was
amended twpo years
ago, saying it is very im-
portant in improving
the ‘Ease of Doing Busi-
ness’ ranking of both
India and states.
Citing the examples
of the high courts of Al-
lahabad, Karnataka,
and Madhya Pradesh, it
has suggested other
high courts to allocate a
special day to make al-
ready functioning des-
ignated special courts
for dealing with infra-
structure project litiga-
tionasdedicatedcourts.
Section 20 B of Spe-
cific Relief Act, 2018,
provides for designated
courts. But the Law
Ministry wants a desig-
nated court to function
as a dedicated court on
special days. The high
courts have dedicated
special days every week
to enable exclusive han-
dling of Specific Relief
matters pertaining to
infrastructure project
contracts. —PTI
Centre asks states to
set up special courts
Kolkata: West Bengal
Chief Minister Mamata
Banerjee extended her
gratitude to leaders for
"showing solidarity to
the people of Bengal
and reaffirming their
commitment to federal-
ism" over the central
government asking for
transferring Indian Po-
lice Service officers,
days after the attack on
BJP president JP Na-
dda's convoy.
In a tweet, she
thanked Chhattisgarh
CM Bhupesh Baghel,
Delhi CM Arvind Kejri-
wal, Rajasthan CM
Ashok Gehlot, & Tamil
Nadu Leader of Opposi-
tion MK Stalin for
showing solidarity.
Earlier, these leaders
had criticised the cen-
tral government for
asking for the transfer-
ring of IPS officers.—ANI
Mamata thanks leaders for
showing solidarity with Bengal
New Delhi: A gradual
rise in minimum and
maximum tempera-
tures by 2 degrees Cel-
sius to 3 degrees Celsiu-
sis likely over plains of
northwest and adjoin-
ing central India in the
48 hours, bringing re-
lief to residents in the
region, who have en-
dured biting cold waves
for the last few days, the
India Meteorological
Department (IMD) pre-
dicted on Sunday.
Cold Day conditions,
however, are likely to
prevail over the North-
west and adjoining Cen-
tral India during the
next three days except
East Uttar Pradesh.
The current spell of
cold wave/severe cold
wave conditions over
Northwest and adjoin-
ing Central India are
likely to abate from De-
cember 21.
"The current spell of
Cold Wave/Cold Day
conditions and Dense
to very dense fog likely
to continue at a few
places over East Uttar
Pradesh on December
20 to 21 and at isolated
places over the same
area from December 21
to 23," the IMD said in a
statement. —ANI
Temp to rise in next 48 hours: IMD
Icicles hang from a tree in the outskirts of Srinagar, Jammu and
Kashmir on Sunday. —PHOTO BY ANI
BJP GEARS UP
New Delhi: Stressing
on the need for an ex-
peditious vaccination
drive to cover all the
target population esti-
mated to be around 30
crore, Union Health
Minister Harsh Vard-
hansaidthecountryis
onthevergeof author-
ising the 1st set of vac-
cines. During a meet-
ing, the Union minis-
ter also underlined
that pandemic growth
in India has dropped
to 2% while the case
fatality rate due to the
coronavirus is at 1.45
per cent, which is
among the lowest in
the world. Stressing
that despite festivals
in the months of Oc-
tober & November, no
new surge of cases
was observed due to
comprehensive test-
ing, tracking & treat-
ment policy, Vardhan
appealed to the public
to diligently maintain
“Covid-appropriate
behaviour”. —PTI
On verge of authorising 1st
set of vaccine: Vardhan
MEN HAVE 30% HIGHER RISK OF DYING FROM COVID-19: STUDY
—PHOTOBYANI
Mamata Banerjee

TALKING POINTAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
O
ver recent
weeks and
months, we
have heard of several
COVID-19 cases in
which people have
tested positive after
previously clearing
the virus.Scientists
are hopeful being in-
fected with COVID-19
confers immunity for
a length of time. But
someof theseinstanc-
es have raised con-
cerns about reinfec-
tion. Although rare, it
seems to be possible.
Theotherthingwhich
could be at play in
manyof thesecasesis
“prolonged viral
shedding”. Both phe-
nomena are probably
more common than
we realise. But it’s im-
portanttounderstand
the differences be-
tween the two.
W
henyouare
sick with a
virus, the
cellsinyourbodyhost-
ing the infection re-
lease infectious virus
particles, which you
thenshedintotheenvi-
ronment. This process
is called viral shed-
ding.For SARS-CoV-2,
the virus that causes
COVID-19, shedding
primarilyoccurswhen
we talk, cough, sneeze,
or even exhale. SARS-
CoV-2 can be shed in a
person’s stool, too. Re-
search shows shed-
ding of infectious
SARS-CoV-2 begins
before a person starts
displaying symptoms,
and peaks at or just af-
ter symptom onset
(usually four to six
days after infection).
Shedding can contin-
ue for several weeks
after a person’s symp-
toms have resolved —
there’s no standard
time frame.Research
has identified shed-
ding of infectious
SARS-CoV-2viruspar-
ticles from up to eight
days after symptom
onset in hospitalized
patients, to up to 70
daysafterdiagnosisin
an immunocompro-
mised person.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
VIRAL SHEDDING AND
With a number
of patients testing
positive after
recovering from
the virus,
virologists battle
the two
possible
causes
C
urrently there is
nosimplewayto
d e t e r m i n e
whether a person is
shedding infectious vi-
rus, or how much.
The “gold standard”
methodusedtodiagnose
COVID-19 is the PCR
test. PCR tests detect vi-
ral genetic material
(RNA in the case of
SARS-CoV-2) from a pa-
tient’sswabbedsamples.
But they cannot deter-
mine whether the virus
is alive or dead, or, in
other words, if the virus
is infectious.
Thelevelof infectious
SARS-CoV-2 can only be
determined using infec-
tivity methods (called
assays). These are com-
mon in research labora-
tories, but are not used
as diagnostic tests.
LARA HERRERO
RESEARCH LEADER IN
VIROLOGY AND INFEC-
TIOUS DISEASE, GRIF-
FITH UNIVERSITY
EUGENE MADZOKERE
PHD CANDIDATE IN
VIROLOGY, GRIFFITH
UNIVERSITY
REINFECTION
WITH NCOV
So, how can you tell?
What
is viral
shedding?
Why do some people
shed for longer?
Long viral shedding
versus reinfection
Shedding, reinfection and
community spread
I
n the above cas-
es, the viral par-
ticles being shed
are infectious,
which is what virol-
ogists consider viral
shedding to mean.
But during COV-
ID-19, the definition
of shedding has
been broadened to
include the shed-
ding of viral genetic
material (RNA).
Although RNA
constitutes frag-
ments of the virus,
these aren’t neces-
sarily infectious
fragments. Studies
measuring the shed-
ding of viral genetic
material from the
respiratory tract
have reported shed-
ding typically lasts
around 17 days.
Shedding of SARS-
CoV-2 genetic mate-
rial can persist for
more than 80 days in
the upper respira-
tory tract, and over
120 days in the stool.
Where people
have recovered and
then later test posi-
tive again — or re-
turn a “weak posi-
tive” result — the
test has picked up
viral genetic mate-
rial. We don’t know
whether the virus is
infectious at this
point.
T
here is no
evidence to
suggest peo-
ple who shed SARS-
CoV-2 genetic mate-
rial for a long time
in their faeces have
been sicker with
COVID-19. Though
some research has
found prolonged
shedding in the res-
piratory tract can
be linked to more
severe disease.
We do not fully
understand the fac-
tors that make a
person a “long
shedder”, but re-
search into this is
ongoing. Certain
groups have been
associated with
prolonged SARS-
CoV-2 shedding, in-
cluding males, chil-
dren, older adults,
and people with
compromised im-
mune systems.
There’s also
speculation fac-
tors such as the
amount of SARS-
CoV-2 which
caused the infec-
tion (the viral
dose), and possibly
the viral strain,
may play a role.
In the absence of
targeted antiviral
drugs, shedding
cannot be stopped.
But, by sticking to
COVID-safe guide-
lines such as keep-
ing an adequate
distance from oth-
ers, wearing a face
mask, and practis-
ing hand hygiene,
we can minimise
the risks from a
person unknow-
ingly shedding in-
fectious virus.
R
eports of
reinfection
— in the
sense of a new in-
fection, rather than
prolonged or inter-
mittent shedding
of the same one —
have been limited
to date. One source
collating con-
firmed reinfection
cases indicates
there have been
just 26 worldwide.
Evidence we
have from other
coronaviruses sug-
gests the risk of
reinfection may be
lower in the first 90
days after initial
infection.
Some studies on
COVID-19, both
published and not
yet formally pub-
lished in a peer-re-
viewed journal,
suggest immunity
may last for several
months. But we
need more evi-
dence on this topic,
which we will accu-
mulate as time
passes.
Where a person
does test positive
several weeks or
months after they
have recovered, the
difficulty is con-
firming reinfec-
tion. That is be-
cause this requires
genetic testing of
both infections to
determine whether
they are in fact dif-
ferent.
Given this is time
consuming and the
technology isn’t
widely accessible,
it is highly likely
there are more than
26 cases of reinfec-
tion around the
world.
W
hile the
virus ap-
pears to
be under good con-
trol in the nation of
Australia, pro-
longed viral shed-
ding and reinfec-
tion are probably
two of the most im-
portant drivers of
SARS-CoV-2 com-
munity transmis-
sion around the
world.
Understanding
how and for how
long people can
shed SARS-CoV-2,
and which factors
increase the risk of
viral shedding or
reinfection, can
help us to improve
surveillance and re-
duce the rate at
which the virus
spreads.
A person begins viral shedding before developing COVID-19 symptoms
Following COVID-19 precautionary measures such as washing hands can protect against viral shedding
Not all shedding is equal
SOURCE: : THECONVERSATION.COM

Life is not made up of facts and
figures and passion and
sentiment, a successful man
finds the perfect mix!
—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor, First India
AHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
08
2NDFRONT
First India Bureau
Junagadh: It is public
knowledge that the Gir
forest is the only abode
of the Asiatic lion in the
world, but few know
how the jungle became
a source of water for Ju-
nagadh city and as
many as 39 surrounding
villages and how a de-
generating forest was
revived.
It all began with the
efforts of IFS officer
Bharat Lal and was con-
tinued by subsequent
officials. From a poach-
er’s paradise, Gir is now
home to around 550 li-
ons. And a source of wa-
ter not for the animals
but also for the people.
Located in the
drought prone region of
Junagadh, Girnar for-
ests was home to the
Asiatic lion till 1963.
However, due to illegal
hacking and felling, the
forest degenerated and
the wildlife lost their
habitat. With time, boot-
leggers started using
the forest for produc-
tion of illicit liquor.
After Bharat Lal was
posted there in July
1992, efforts were made
and the forest was pre-
sented to people as a
source of water for Ju-
nagadh city and adjoin-
ing 39 villages. Besides
protection, eco-restora-
tion drive was also tak-
en up in the area.
Several laws came
into force and over 1,100
illegal wood cutters,
whose livelihood was
dependent on the forest,
were trained and of-
fered alternative oppor-
tunities.
Bharat Lal says the
State Forest Depart-
ment and nature lovers
joined hands to start a
movement to restore the
forest and its wildlife.
Massive soil and mois-
ture conservation work
was taken up. To boost
the morale of staff,
housing and other fa-
cilities were created
near forest areas, and
communication net-
works also set up.
“Mining in the area
was put to a standstill
and open mines were
converted to water bod-
ies with the principles
of watershed manage-
ment. More than 140-
odd check dams were
constructed to create
perennial water sourc-
es. Rampant encroach-
ment that had happened
because of it being adja-
cent to a city, was re-
moved,” he said.
With little care, Gir turned source of water for thirsty region
Lions and vegetation had disap-
peared till initiatives by an IFS
officer changed everything
BEYOND THE JUNGLE KING
A’bad & Rajkot Civil Hospitals have reported at least 60 cases of mucormycosis in two months
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad/Rajkot:
EvenasGujaratgrapples
with the coronavirus, a
fungal disease, mucor-
mycosis, has struck. Al-
beit, experts say it is not
as lethal as Covid-19.
Medical Superinten-
dentof AhmedabadCivil
Hospital, Dr JP Modi,
said till Friday they had
47 cases of mucormyco-
sis this year. Normally,
the incidence is 8 to 10
cases a year.
He informs, “It cannot
be linked directly with
coronavirus, but since
steroids are the best
treatment against Cov-
id-19 as of now, these
steroids could have sup-
pressed the immune sys-
tem of the patients and
cancausethisfungaldis-
ease.”
Dr. Devang Gupta,
ENT surgeon,
Ahmedabad Civil hospi-
tal told news agency
IANS, “Out of the 47 pa-
tients, we have had
around 25 during the
past 45 days. The prima-
ry reason might be the
humid atmosphere after
the monsoons and there-
after the cold weather.”
However, Dr Gupta
warns, “But these num-
bers are not normal, as
wegetaround7to8cases
of mucormycosis a year.
The number looks high-
er also because patients
from across Gujarat and
even neighbouring
States are referred to the
Ahmedabad Civil hospi-
tal.”
Meanwhile, in Rajkot
Civil Hospital, Dr. Sejal
Mistry, ENT surgeon,
said they had received 10
patients of mucormyco-
sis in the last 2 months.
Two of them died, 4 have
been hospitalised and
four discharged.
Dr Mistry said the 2
victims were brought in
an advanced condition
of the fungal disease. “If
this fungal disease is not
detected and treated at
an early stage, it can
prove fatal,” the doctor
said. Significantly, Dr.
Shital Mistri, nodal Of-
ficer for corona at the
Gujarat Medical Educa-
tion and Research Socie-
ty (GMERS) hospital, in
Vadodara, says, “I 100%
believethatmucormyco-
sisislinkedwithcorona,
because the respiratory
immunityof peoplestay-
ing in the ICU is going
down.”
“The fungus has more
chances of affecting dia-
betic persons, whose
sugar levels are very
high. This fungus comes
from the soil, excavation
sites, construction sites
where water seepage oc-
curs and refrigerators
thatarenotcleanedregu-
larly. A mask is the best
protection against such
fungus, which can also
spread through air,” Dr
Mistri says.
However, Vadodara
and Surat government
hospitals said they had
not received a single mu-
cormycosis case this
year. —(With IANS inputs)
AfterCovid-19scare,fatal
fungalinfectionhauntsGujnow
FATAL FUNGUS
A general ward at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad. —FILE PHOTO
Viral message targeting
PM’s family work of fiction
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: A mes-
sage widely circulating
online alleges that
Prime Minister Naren-
dra Modi’s siblings and
cousins have reaped
massive financial bene-
fits misusing the stature
of Modi. The message
has been shared onTwit-
ter, Facebook and What-
sApp.
Fact-checking portal
AltNews, which is based
in Ahmedabad, went
into the details of the
social media posts and
found that it was all a
work of fiction.
For instance, Vinay
Kumar Dokania, nation-
al social media coordi-
nator of Congress, was
among those who circu-
lated the message that
begins with, “…Here
are some interesting,
but little known facts on
the Modi family”.
The viral message
makes varied claims
about PM Modi’s family
members, like alleging
that his elder brother
Somabhai Modi (75) is
now “chairman of the
recruitment board in
Gujarat” while younger
sibling Pankaj Modi (58)
is “vice president in the
recruitment board”.
There is nothing like
such a board in the Gu-
jarat Government.
It claims Prahlad
Modi (64) owns car
showrooms across
Ahmedabad and Va-
dodara. Several claims
have also been made
about the wealth of the
prime minister’s cous-
ins and uncles. Again,
fiction.
AltNews’preliminary
research revealed that
in 2016, India Today car-
ried a story on Modi’s
immediate and extend-
ed family. The story was
by former deputy editor
at India Today Uday Ma-
hurkar who was recent-
ly appointed as informa-
tion commissioner. This
has remained irrefuta-
ble so far.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his mother Heeraba, his brothers and extended family in a rare archival
family picture.
NIGHT CURFEW PROVING A
BANE FOR RAJKOT FARMERS
INORDINATE DELAY
ANGERS RORO FERRY
PASSENGERS IN SURAT
7 booked in Vadodara
for CM’s Amrutam health
scheme card fraud
First India Bureau
Rajkot: Farmers of
Rajkot are facing
difficulties in selling
their products due
to the night curfew
imposed in the state.
Farmers find it dif-
ficult to transport and
sell their products due
to the night curfew.
The daily activities of
the farmers cannot
start before 6 am. The
distress sales especial-
ly of perishables such
as fruits and vegeta-
bles have sparked
growing discontent
among the farmers.
Jayesh Bhai, a
farmer selling fruits
and vegetables at
Rajkot Mandi, said,
“We are selling pota-
toes at Rs 24/kg, to-
matoes at Rs. 24/kg
and several other
spices at Rs. 20/kg.
This is not the price
they usually pay for
these fruits and veg-
etables? But, we
have no choice but
to sell at these cheap
prices due to the
night curfew im-
posed in the city.
Hence, customer
footfall is less. “
Raj Raiyani, anoth-
er farmer present at
the mandi said, “We
feel helpless. If we do
not sell our products
on time, it can get
spoilt.”
“Nearly 40 trucks
went delayed in Maha-
rashtra and Madhya
Pradesh carrying var-
ious vegetables due to
the curfew”, said an-
other farmer at the
venue.
“Since most of the
fruits and vegeta-
bles are expected to
be fresh, but be-
cause of the trans-
portation woes,
nearly 30% of the
vegetables got dam-
aged,” said another
farmer.
First India Bureau
Surat: The RoRo Ferry
service that runs be-
tween between Hazira
in Surat and Ghogha in
Bhavnagar has been
embroiled in one or the
other controversy since
the beginning. This
Sunday, the ferry ser-
vice got delayed for
nearly 6 hours, which
led to a tussle between
angry passengers and
the ferry management.
On early Sunday
morning,theferrystart-
ed its voyage from Hazi-
ra, Surat, but had to take
a long halt midway to
make way for a cargo
ship passing through
the same route. The fer-
ry was unable to start its
journey till 10 am.
The huge delay an-
gered the passengers
and led to a clash be-
tween them and the
ferry management. The
passengers said that
they were supposed to
reach Ghogha in four
hours, but it took them
nearly six hours to
reach there. When the
management was asked
about reasons of delay
and dispute with pas-
sengers, they did not
give a proper answer.
First India Bureau
Ahmedabad: As many
as 7 people have been
booked in Vadodara for
allegedly using fake in-
come documents to ob-
tain 35 beneficiary
cards issued under the
Gujarat Government’s
health insurance
scheme for those in the
low income group, po-
lice said on Sunday.
All the 7 booked are
agents, who fraudulent-
ly obtained health cards
issued under the
Mukhyamantri Amru-
tam Yojana by the urban
health centre in Va-
dodara and were booked
on Saturday after a
probe found errors in
the typing and photos
on the income docu-
ments, a Crime Branch
official said.
“While the income
documents used to ob-
tain the cards showed
they had been issued by
the mamlatdar of Va-
dodara East, further
inquiries revealed that
the mamlatdar office
had not issued any of
them. All 7 have been
booked and more people
are likely to be nabbed
as part of the scam
probe,” he added.
Vegetable transport has become a challenge due to night curfew.
Asiatic lion prospers in Gir forests. —FILE PHOTO
COVID-19
UPDATE
GUJARAT
4,234
DEATHS
2,35,299
CONFIRMED CASES
RAJASTHAN
2,617 DEATHS 2,98,996 CASES
DELHI
10,277 DEATHS 6,17,005 CASES
WORLD
16,96,440
DEATHS
7,69,06,823
CONFIRMED CASES
INDIA
1,00,54,946
CONFIRMED CASES
1,45,804
DEATHS
MAHARASHTRA
48,746 DEATHS 18,96,518 CASES
UTTAR PRADESH
8,177 DEATHS 5,73,401 CASES
KARNATAKA
12,009 DEATHS 9,09,469 CASES

AHMEDABAD, MONDAY
DECEMBER 21, 2020
www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia
facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia 09
AND THE WINNER IS...Isha Agarwal was crowned as Elite Miss Rajasthan 2020, while Divija Gambhir and
Riya Sain were announced as the first and second Runner-ups on Sunday evening!
NEHAL NAYAR
nehal.nayar@firstindia.co.in
he grand finale of Elite
Miss Rajasthan 2020 was
held on Sunday evening at
Samskara Resort Jaipur,
where Isha Agarwal
bagged the title of the win-
ner, and Divija Gambhir
and Riya Sain were declared to be
the runner-ups.
Jagdeesh Chandra was the chief
guest of the event and encouraged
all the finalists to be focused on
their dreams and goals in life, irre-
spective of the results.
The winners were selected on the
basisof theirtalents,communication
skills,andgracefulwalks-something
that is looked upon, in a winner.
The finalists were chosen from
fourmajorcitiesof thestate-Jaipur,
Udaipur, Jodhpur and Kota.
In the first of the four designer
sequence rounds, Jaipur’s well-
known designer Harshad Pahuja
showcased his collection of Indo-
Western garments, while in the sec-
ondround,designerVarshaJangid
showcased her range of couture.
The third round stood out as a
multi-designerroundwhere15
famous fashion designers
presented their collection,
like Himmat Singh, Moni-
ka Bohra, Aashna Vas-
wani, Mohit Falod, and
Karan Vig among oth-
ers.
In the last round of
the show, 15 girls
were chosen to be
the finalists, who
walked the ramp in
designer couture by
Heena Belani.
Keeping the COV-
ID pandemic in mind,
only the families of the
participants, guests and
teams were invited.
Alongside this, proper
safety measures like
social distancing,
masks and sanitiza-
tion were also taken
care of.
T
Jagdeesh Chandra crowned the winner of Elite Miss Rajasthan,
Isha Agarwal on Sunday evening. Seen with them are (from left)
Akanksha Bhalla, Deepali Naruka and Charvi Tanya Dutta.
Charvi Tanya Dutta re-crowned Sharon Alexander,
the winner of Elite Miss Rajasthan 2014
Riya Sain, Isha Agarwal and Divija Gambhir
—PHOTOSBYSANTOSHSHARMA

10
ETCAHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia
FACEOFTHEDAY
ROSHNI BHATIA, Content Creator
LEO
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23
Financial gains appear on
the horizon for some.
Someone may give you tips
regarding your health.
Marketing personnel may need to
rethink strategy. You are likely to
infuse confidence in a family member
in a not so good mood. Avoid
travelling long distance.
LIBRA
SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22
Spending on friends will
get you the recognition you
seek, but don’t overdo it. A
task entrusted to you at
work will be successfully completed.
A family member can make you
mentally upset over an issue that had
been simmering for long. You may
have to serve a property battle.
ARIES
MAR 21 - APR 20
Efforts for improving your
financial condition will
show positive signs. Those
in uniformed services can
crave for a better posting. Weather
changes can affect health if not
careful. You seem to be extra
efficient today and will be able to
wind up a lot of work.
SAGITTARIUS
NOV 23 - DEC 22
You may choose to invest in
a scheme you have been
contemplating for long. You
can expect a productive day
at work. You will need to be careful
about your food habits, as it can affect
health otherwise. Those wanting peace
and quiet at home will have to ensure
the same.
GEMINI
MAY 21 - JUNE 21
This is the time to plan
your finances for the
future. Doctors and
engineers can expect a
satisfying day both professionally
and monetarily. A family member
may not agree to with your thoughts.
A small party with friends will be very
exciting and rejuvenating for you.
AQUARIUS
JAN 21 - FEB 19
Paying off creditors can
appear difficult, but you will
manage somehow.
Freelancers will be in great
demand and will earn well. A marriage
or birth is likely to bring happiness on
the domestic front. An inheritance or
property comes your way most
unexpectedly.
TAURUS
APR 21 - MAY 20
A good break on the
business front is foreseen
for some. Some of you can
pass through a tight
financial situation. Those suffering
from an ailment are likely to show
improvement. Socially, this seems to
be an excellent day when whatever
you do is likely to be followed.
CAPRICORN
DEC 23 - JAN 20
A soft approach in
handling a subordinate will
go a long way in encourag-
ing a positive relationship.
A family function is on the anvil and
will give you an opportunity to
showcase your talents. Those going
for a long drive are in for an
enjoyable time.
VIRGO
AUG 24 - SEP 23
You earn well and will also
manage to open more
avenues of earning. Health
needs care. Things may
not go right on the professional front
today. An excellent time with family
and friends is indicated in a
get-together. An exciting time lies
ahead like travelling with friends.
CANCER
JUNE 22 - JULY 23
You may look for good
investment options as
money comes to you. Your
advice on a professional
matter will come in handy. Age-
related ailments cannot be ruled out
for some oldsters. Those living in a
joint family are likely to feel cornered
due to lack of support.
PISCES
FEB20 - MARCH 20
Discussing investment
options with a financial
expert will help you take
the correct decision.
Raising capital for a business project
will require some hard thinking.
Some misunderstanding over a trivial
issue with spouse can flare up on the
domestic front.
SCORPIO
OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22
If there are any differences
with spouse over some
issue, this is the day to
resolve them. A trip with
family is likely to prove most
enjoyable. Take steps to resolve a
property matter amicably. This is an
excellent day that makes you lucky in
every sphere.
YOUR
DAYHoroscope by
Saurabbh Sachdeva
he tradition of gifting on
Christmas may not be
such a big thing in India,
butwecan’tdenythefas-
cination for Santa Claus,
Christmas parties, and
Christmas sales. Every-
one loves a present, even your
furry companions.
This year has been different,
Slightly grim, and yet garnished
with a hint of hope. So let’s do
something different to ensure it
ends better than it started.
How about we extend the Christ-
masspirittogifting?Andthetype
of gifting that will be extremely
gratifyingandensurethattheend
is brighter for at least those re-
ceiving your thoughtful gifts.
You might think I am referring
to gifting to human charities.
While I ain’t opposed to helping
humans, I feel it is the animals
that need more of the Christmas
cheer. They too have had a tough
year, with a large number of dog
owners abandoning them, and
many of them finding their way
into poorly funded and staffed
shelters that are overcrowded be-
cause of the rising number of ac-
cidents, cruelty, and infections.
And let’s face it, charities
working for animals are not on
the top of everyone’s donation
list. So I say, give to an organiza-
tion dedicated to animals for a
change. They need your support
the most as they rely entirely on
private donations. The govern-
ment for the most part has no
provision to support an animal
charity.
Soherearesomegreatwaysfor
you to play Santa for your city’s
street and ownerless animals.
AlltheywantforChristmasis‘love’
MARIAM ABUHAIDERI
thepersianladki@gmail.com
T
1
Contact your local Shelter or NGO and inquire about
their needs. You can always gift them items from their
wish-list. Most shelters need funding to purchase items
like food, medicine, blankets and mattresses, hot water
bottles, disinfectants, under sheets for paralyzed and young
animals, gloves, and toys. It is always better to ask rather than
donate something they don’t need.
4
Go on a feeding spree. Feed as many animals on the
street as you can. Treats would be nice too. It is cold
this time of the year so it would also be nice for you to
arrange for some blankets and gunny bags for them
doggies. You can place them in a cozy corner under a tree or
where the animal is frequently spotted.
2
Donate or sponsor food
for a day at a local shelter.
Many shelters have a
system where residents
can sponsor a day’s meal. Check
with them and decide if you want
to sponsor the entire meal or
pitch in for part of it. You might
want to be mindful and ask them
what they recommend for the
animals. You cannot feed sick
animals something their tummy
won’t be able to digest.
5
Pledge to
sponsor an
animal or a
program at your
local shelter. Pledging
ensures a consistent
flow of funds so they
have at least that to
rely on. Many shelters
have a sponsorship
program. Check with
your local NGO to
see if they have any
infrastructural or
equipment purchase
planned so your
donation can help
them with some bigger
projects.
For recommendations on NGOs in your city feel free to reach out to
me. Naughty or nice, the animals deserve some Christmas cheer.
6
Adopt an animal: There
are many abandoned
animals in shelters. If you
can take responsibility
of a new family member, it is a
great idea to gift your children
a furry sibling. Compassion is
something children learn early
on. And imagine you make two
or more living beings happy. By
taking an animal from a shelter
and not from a breeder, you
give it a chance at life as most
animals that stay at a shelter for
an extended period develop either
some infection or mental trauma.
Many die as they cannot be given
the attention they deserve due to
overcrowding.
3
Spend Christmas
with them. No
better way than
to volunteer.
Puppies, kittens, and
paralyzed animals need
individual attention.
Let’s bring them some
happy cheer. Take your
friends and family.
Bring along some toys
and treats. Make it a
Santa’s day out!

K
aty Perry is surprising fans
with a new EP! The 36-year-
old singer and American
Idol judge dropped her EP
titled Cosmic Energy on Thursday
night (December 17) in honour of
Monday night’s Great Conjunc-
tion. Katy‘s Cosmic Energy
doesn’t feature any new songs,
but it does feature some of
her most enlightening and
out of this world songs, in-
cluding “E.T.,” “Wide Awake,”
and “Not the End of the World.”
If you missed it, back in August,
she got candid about her most per-
sonal album Smile and also re-
vealed Bloom’s reaction to the al-
bum in an exclusive chat.
—Agency
A
nanya Panday, who made
an impressive Bolly-
wood debut with Stu-
dent of the Year 2, is one
of the most popular star kids.
Despite being a few films old,
the gorgeous star has managed
to carve a niche for herself. Be-
sides her acting, the Khaali
Peeli star is also known for her
impeccable fashion sense in the
film industry. From nail-
ing a casual outfit to
rocking a stylish dress,
Ananya never fails to im-
press the fashion police.
The star kid was seen
flashing a big smile as she
happily posed for the shut-
terbugs. She looked lovely
in red and pink stripes sweat-
er with grey pants. —Agency
L
ate music director Wajid
Khan of Sajid-Wajid
fame died earlier this
year in May but in the
last few months his wife Kamal-
rukh has opened up on their
family life. Earlier, Kamarukh
had revealed how she was
forced by the family to convert.
Kamalrukh has now revealed
that the couple were staying
separately for many years and
that the late music director also
had threatened to divorce her.
Openinguponthedifficultphase
of her life, she said, “He used
to leave and stay at his
mother’s house, some-
times for months on
end.Whenhethreat-
ened to divorce me,
I said ‘fine, let’s
go ahead’. Even
in court, I
made my case
about being
under pres-
sure to con-
vert.”
—Agency
S
alman’s youngest broth-
er, actor Sohail Khan
turned a year older on
Sunday. He celebrated
his 50th birthday. Sohail is the
younger son of well-known
screenwriter Salim Khan. The
actor-director produces several
films under his banner – Sohail
Khan Productions.
In 2002, he wrote, directed,
produced and also made his act-
ing debut with the film Maine
Dil Tujhko Diya, which had not
done well at the box office. Lat-
er, he featured in several other
films and most of them done
average business at the box of-
fice. However, with Maine Pyaar
Kyun Kiya starring his elder
brother Salman Khan, Sohail
has his first hit film, which he
produced. In 2017, Sohail pro-
duced another hit film titled
Partner starring Salman Khan,
Govinda, Katrina Kaif and Lara
Dutta in lead roles. —Agency
K
areena Kapoor Khan
celebrated her
son Taimur
Ali Khan’s 4th
birthday on Sunday
and the doting mum
shared a truckload worth
of memories on social me-
dia. Kareena also penned a
heartfelt note for her son as
she called him a ‘hardworking’
boy and a reminder to chase his
dreams.
Kareena’s note read, “My
child... I’m happy at four you
have such determination, dedi-
cation and focus on what you
want to do... which is now pick-
ing up the haystack and feeding
the cow... God bless you my
hardworking boy... but on the
way, don’t forget to taste the
snow, pluck flowers, jump up
and down, climb trees and of
course eat all your cake...”
She added, “Chase your
dreams and keep your chin up
my boy... but above all else... do
everything in your life that
makes you smile. No one can or
ever will love you more than
your Amma Happy Birthday
Son... My Tim.” —Agency
A
ctress Millie Bobby
Brown has been roped
in to star in the science-
fiction film, The Elec-
tric State. The film is produced
and directed by Anthony and
Joe Russo, and based on the Si-
mon Stalenhag illustrated novel
of the same name. Set in an al-
ternative future, the story re-
volves around a teenage girl
(played by Brown) who realises
that a strange and sweet robot,
who comes to her, has been sent
by her missing brother. They
then set out to find her brother
in an imaginative world of hu-
mans and robots. —Agency
S
elena Gomez is looking
back on the success of
her latest album! During
a new interview with
Billboard, the 28-year-old sing-
er/actress chatted about her
successful year, which in-
cluded landing her first Hot
100 No. 1 at the end of 2019
with her song “Lose You to
Love Me” along with her
album Rare earning 703,000
equivalent album units to
date and becoming her
third No. 1 album.
“There’s this bit-
tersweet feeling, of
course,” Selena
shared. “I would
much rather the
world be in a bet-
ter place. Yet at
the same time,
it was so beau-
tiful to see that
my music
could hopeful-
ly bring some
people some
sort of joy in
the midst of
it,” she said.
—Agency
ETCwww.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia AHMEDABAD | MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020
11
ngelina Jolie and Brad
Pitt are still embroiled
in the custody battle of
their six children. The
ex-couple are parents
to Maddox, Pax, Zaha-
ra, Shiloh and twins
Knox and Vivienne. While a
number of developments took
place this year on the legal
battlefront, a new re-
port claims that An-
gelina could be
pulling out the
big guns to
leverage
the case on her side. We’d sug-
gest you take this report with a
pinch of salt as reports claim
that Angelina is digging out a
few old secret tapes.
Sources allege the actress is
“prolonging” the legal process
for she has “revenge” on her
mind. The tabloid claims the
Eternals star seeks to take re-
vengefromherex-husbandafter
Brad took German model Nicole
Poturalski to their chateau.
Appar-
ently, Angelina is “humiliat-
ed” by the turn of events
and is leaving no stone
unturned in the battle.
The outlet claims she
has “secret” tapes
that could tar-
nish Brad’s
image.
—Agency
A SECRET TAPES
TAIMUR TURNED 4
The Electric State
TO SUCCESS...
DIVORCE THREAT!
COSMIC ENERGY
M
alaika Arora is all
about staying fit and
glamorous and the
diva often makes
heads turn with her avatar.
While we often spot Malaika
out and about in the city in
her gym wear or casual wear,
she changed things up a bit on
Sunday. The fitness diva
ditched her Sunday pyjamas
ahead of Christmas festivi-
ties at home and shared a
stunning photo for the gram.
Rocking a white and gold
look, Malaika posed for the
camera.
In the photo, Malaika wore
a white co-ord set with chunky
gold earrings. As she left her
tresses flowing, she complet-
ed her look with a dark red lip
and added a pop of colour to
her outfit. —Agency
MALAIKA’S GORGEOUS SUNDAY
Ananya PandayKaty Perry
Sohail Khan
Wajid Khan
Millie Bobby Brown
Selena Gomez
...her post Malaika Arora
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s post
Paparazzi
MOMENT Happy Birthday
SOHAIL
Angelina Jolie

AMC commissioner seeks more powers to make policy decisions during pandemic

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