New Delhi [India],(ANI): The Election Commission (EC) is likely to announce the schedule of assembly polls in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh on Friday, said sources.
According to sources, EC will hold a press briefing this afternoon where it is expected to announce the dates for Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh assembly elections. The press conference will be held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
The term of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly will end in January next year, while that of Gujarat in February 2023.
The top officials of the Election Commission recently visited the two poll-bound states to take stock of preparedness. (ANI)

 New Delhi, Oct 14 (IANS) Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday launched a blistering attack on Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and blamed him for the statements made by AAP's Gujarat's chief Gopal Italia.

"Italia insulted 100-year-old Hiraben, the mother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She was maliciously attacked by AAP. I say the words of Kejriwal are being spoken by Italia. And I dare Kejriwal to come to Gujraat and speak such words... You (Kejriwal) are not sparing a 100-year-old woman who has nothing to do with politics. I dare you Mr. Kejriwal to come to Gujarat and speak your own words," Irani said while speaking to mediapersons here.

She said that attacking a 100-year-old woman will turn into a big political defeat for the AAP. She said the people of Gujarat have now decided to teach the AAP a political lesson.

"If you (AAP) think that attacking a 100-year-old woman, just because she is mother of the PM, will help you gain in politics, you are mistaken. This is Gujarat and Gujarati will make you pay for this in the upcoming elections," she said.

Irani said that by such statements which were made by Italia at the instructions of Kejriwal, the Gujarati sentiments were hurt.

She said that it was not the first time Italia did that, and while Kejriwal was well aware of his record, the whole party supported the serial offender.

"You (AAP) abuse us, abuse our organisation but don't hurl abuses at a 100-year-old woman. This is unacceptable. People will not spare such a political attempt. Gujaratis will now bring AAP to political justice," said Irani.

She repeated that it was a malicious attack on the PM's mother which was being done at the behest of Kejriwal. She said that to be in the limelight, AAP can do anything.

"For a mere political profit AAP can stoop to such a low. This is your character Mr. Kejriwal. How can you hurl abuses at the mother of someone just because he is your political rival. Everything is happening at Kejriwal's order," she again claimed.

Irani said that how Kejriwal can call him the 'Avatar of Lord Krishna' even after abusing a 100-year-old woman, and added, "what was stopping Kejriwal to throw Italia out of his party".

"Kejriwal, why are you making someone (Italia) say your words, I dare you to speak your words openly, if you have guts. How can women feel safe under your regime," she said.

Recently, two old videos of Italia surfaced, one in which he criticises Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "neech" politics, and another in which he makes derogatory remarks against women.

 Bettiah (Bihar) [India], October 14 (ANI): In a shooting incident, four people were injured in Bihar's Bettiah under the Jogapatti police station limits on Thursday.
The incident took place when unidentified miscreants entered a home and shot four people after that they were admitted to the nearest hospital. Superintendent of Police (SP) Upendra Nath Verma said, "One man entered a house and shot four people in the Jogapatti police station area. The accused was nabbed with the help of villagers."
The police said that the ward member of Dumri village Raja Babu Patel, his brother Vijay Kumar Patel and two other villagers- Sudhan Manjhi and Rustam Mian were injured in the firing. Raja Babu Patel is shot in the neck.
"In the hospital, Raja Babu Patel said that he was sitting at the door of the house with his brother. Meanwhile, a man covering his face came and opened fire. The bullet hit his throat," the police said.
The police further said that the other three were shot while trying to catch the accused.
The accused was caught by the locals when he tried to flee the spot.
Following the incident, one accused was arrested by the police. Further investigations are underway. A further probe is underway. (ANI)

 New Delhi [India], (ANI): The Fire and Fury corps of the Indian Army on Friday inducted indigenous high mobility troop carrier and 4x4 Quick Reaction Force Vehicles for operations in the Ladakh sector, Army officials confirmed.
According to the officials, these vehicles have been made in India by private sector firms.
"Fire and Fury Corps inducts indigenous high mobility troop carrier, 4x4 Quick Reaction Force Vehicles, #QRFV ex @BharatForgeLtd," Fire and Fury Corps tweeted.
https://twitter.com/firefurycorps/status/1580756398782414848?cxt=HHwWgIDQnbnk_O8rAAAA
The Army had announced the induction of the 4x4 Quick Reaction Force vehicles on October 6.
The Northern Command tweeted, "Northern Command inducts 4x4 Quick Reaction Force Vehicles, an indigenous initiative by Bharat Forge Limited; an all-terrain high mobility combat troop carrier with Armour and Mine Protection. #AtmanirbharBharat #MadeInIndia @adgpi," Northen Command-Indian Army had tweeted. (ANI

 Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 13 (ANI/BusinessWire India): Padma Bhushan Udit Narayan (Indian Playback Singer), Jaya Prada (Indian Film Actress and Politician), Kabir Bedi (Indian Film Actor), and other achievers were felicitated with the Pride of Nation Awards, 2022.
Recently, Asia Today Research and Media held a unique "Pride of Nation Awards 2022" ceremony at Hotel Trident Nariman Point Mumbai, honoring and celebrating achievers from all walks of life who have made India proud and demonstrated their excellence in India and around the world. "Pride of Nation Awards" is an attempt to honor individuals/organizations who have significantly contributed in their own fields and brought laurels to the state.
The unique motive for establishing "Pride of Nation Awards" is to motivate or support those who have demonstrated exceptional talent in their respective fields. The Pride of Nation Awards is the only event that acknowledges and celebrates Indian success in all fields, emphasizing inspiring achievements and highlighting inspirational role models in the fields of Art, Entertainment, Social Work, Education, Healthcare, Business, Politics, Music, Sports, Music, Wildlife Conservation, and Environmental Conservation. The occasion was attended by Bhagat Singh Koshiyari (Governor of Maharashtra), Ramdas Athawale (Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India), and Rahul Narwekar (Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Council).
The award ceremony, which was addressed by the governor, was the best venue for presenting an individual's or organizations hard work. Asia Today has provided an opportunity to each one of us, so that all the participants away from the quandary world could enjoy the rewards for their efforts. Individuals from numerous industries, including health, art and entertainment, social services, and education, have been honored and recognized by the organization.
Some of the Individuals and organizations that received awards include: -
Padma Bhushan Udit Narayan - Outstanding Achievement in Music Industry, Jaya Prada - Outstanding Achievement in Film Industry, Kabir Bedi - Outstanding Achievement in Film Industry, Ankita Overseas - Best Exporter of Agro Products and Spices of The Year, Orson Resins And Coatings Pvt. Ltd. - Leading Manufacturer of Chemicals of The Year, GI-One Hospital - Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Maharashtra, Indian Fashions - Best Exporter of Fashion Jewellery in India, N. L. Dalmia High School - Best School With Academic Excellence in Maharashtra, Nerlikar Hospital - Best Alcohol De-addiction Hospital in Maharashtra, Innocorp Urethanes - Best Manufacturer of Polyurethane Foams in Telangana, Rollring Industries - Best Manufacturer of Traverse Units in India, P. E. S. College of Engineering - Best Engineering College With Excellent Faculty in Maharashtra, Sanathan Textiles Limited - One of The Fastest Growing Company in Textile Sector (Yarn Segment), Council of Paramedical Science of India, Medinova Training Institute, Paramedical Council of Maharashtra - Best Paramedical Council and College of The Year, Kulkarni Medical Foundation Pyramid Hospital - Most Promising Multi-Speciality Hospital in District Pune-Maharashtra, JJ Plus Hospitals and Neuron International - Best Tertiary Care Super Speciality Hospital in Maharashtra, Amrutvahini Institute of, Management and Business Administration - Best Emerging MBA Institute in Maharashtra, Vidya Niketan High School - Best Boarding School in Maharashtra, R V Parankar College of Engineering and Technology - Best Emerging Engineering College in Maharashtra, Vishal Rubber Technologies Pvt. Ltd. - Best Manufacturer of Rubber Components of The Year-Maharashtra, Rajiv Gandhi Polytechnic Udgir - Most Promising Engineering College In Maharashtra, Dadasaheb Mokashi Institutes - Best Agriculture College In Maharashtra, Stark Ridge Paper Pvt. Ltd. - Best Manufacturer of Kraft Paper of The Year, Theem College of Engineering - Best Emerging Engineering College with Academic Excellence in Maharashtra, Dr Aniruddha Bhosale - Best Organ Transplantation and HPB Surgeon of The Year-Maharashtra, Dr Rajesh P. Dharia - Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Maharashtra, National Power Engineering Company - Best Manufacturer of Fabricated Steel Structure of The Year-West Bengal, Harsh Industries - Best Manufacturer of Non-woven Carpet in Telangana, Beautiful Advertising Agency - Best Indian Textile Screen Printing Ink Manufacturer 2022, Electronic Devices Worldwide Pvt. Ltd. - Most Reliable & Trusted Manufacturer of Induction Sealing & Cap Assembly Machines of The Year, Dr Saurabh Giri - Best Orthopaedic Surgeon in Maharashtra, Dr Yogesh Suresh Saodekar - Best Neurosurgeon of The Year- Maharashtra, Spangle Steel Products - Best Warehousing Racking Solution Company in Delhi, Krishna Pradeep's 21st Century IAS - Best Coaching Institute For Civil Service Examination in Southern India, Dr Karna Upadhyay - Outstanding Contribution in The Field of Education (Event Management), Vidya Prasarak Mandal's, Maharshi Parshuram College of Engineering - Most Admired Engineering College in Maharashtra, Unity Poly Barrels Pvt. Ltd. - Best Manufacturer Of Plastic Packaging In Maharashtra, Pravara Rural Engineering College Loni - Leading Engineering College in Maharashtra, Dr Jamal Azmi - Best Urologist in Maharashtra, Kai. Sau. Sunitatai Eknathrao Dhakane Polytechnic College - Best Polytechnic College in Maharashtra, MS Fashion Designers - Best Manufacturer of Apparels in Rajasthan, Rattan Organic Foods Pvt. Ltd. - Best Organic Health and Wellness Brand of The Year, Niral Plastics - Best Manufacturer of Bio Medical Bags of The Year-Maharashtra, Shree Saigan Industries - Best Manufacturer of Press Component and Fabrication Parts in Maharashtra, Geeta Hospital and Research Centre - Best Emergency and Snake Bite Care Centre of The Year, Dr Musharraf Ahmed Khan - Most Admired Academician of The Year-Bengaluru, Dr Brahmananda Satapathy - Most Trusted Radiation Oncologist
Pradeep Choudhry is the active CEO of Asia Today Research and Media, a dynamic worldwide media and analytical organization that offers research, analysis, and rating services. For enterprises of all sizes, the company has been offering cutting-edge market research, evaluation, and analysis.
This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India)

 Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], October 13 (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate has arrested IAS officer Sameer Vishnoi from Chhattisgarh after questioning him in a money laundering case, sources told ANI.
The enforcement agency has also arrested Sunil Agarwal of Indramani Group and Laxmikant Tiwari, a relative of businessman Suryakant Tiwari who's currently under the agency's scanner, they said, adding that raids were carried out on Tuesday in Raigadh, Raipur, Durg and Mahasamund. ED found Rs 4 crore in cash during the raids in, besides unaccounted jewellery and gold too were recovered. The sources said that government officials were running an alleged extortion racket by imposing illegal levies and collecting Rs 25 per tonne from coal suppliers.
Incriminating documents have been seized from the offices and residences of senior IAS officers, they added. (ANI)

 Una (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 13 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Vande Bharat Express from Una railway station today during his visit to the mountain state.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur were also present on the occasion.
According to Prime Minister's Office (PMO), running from Amb Andaura to New Delhi, it is the fourth Vande Bharat train that has been introduced in the country and is an advanced version compared to the earlier ones, being much lighter and capable of reaching higher speed in shorter duration.
It accelerates to 100 km per hour in just 52 seconds. The introduction of the train will help boost tourism in the region and provide a comfortable and faster mode of travel.
Heralding a new era of comfortable and enhanced rail travel experience, the new Vande Bharat Express is now ready for a commercial run today.
This is the fourth Vande Bharat train in the country, the other three being run between New Delhi - Varanasi and New Delhi - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and between Gandhinagar and Mumbai.
According to Railways, the new Vande Bharat trains have improved features including reclining seats, automatic fire sensors, CCTV cameras, on-demand content with wifi Facility, three-hour battery backup and GPS systems to make travelling safer and more comfortable.
The Integral Coach Factory has set a target of manufacturing 75 Vande Bharat trains by August 2023.
It also has a photocatalytic ultraviolet air purification system in the roof-mounted package unit (RMPU) for air purification.
Vande Bharat Express is a new-age train redefining passenger travelling in India. (ANI)

Una (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 13 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Vande Bharat Express from Una railway station today during his visit to the mountain state.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur were also present on the occasion.
According to Prime Minister's Office (PMO), running from Amb Andaura to New Delhi, it is the fourth Vande Bharat train that has been introduced in the country and is an advanced version compared to the earlier ones, being much lighter and capable of reaching higher speed in shorter duration.
It accelerates to 100 km per hour in just 52 seconds. The introduction of the train will help boost tourism in the region and provide a comfortable and faster mode of travel.
Heralding a new era of comfortable and enhanced rail travel experience, the new Vande Bharat Express is now ready for a commercial run today.
This is the fourth Vande Bharat train in the country, the other three being run between New Delhi - Varanasi and New Delhi - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and between Gandhinagar and Mumbai.
According to Railways, the new Vande Bharat trains have improved features including reclining seats, automatic fire sensors, CCTV cameras, on-demand content with wifi Facility, three-hour battery backup and GPS systems to make travelling safer and more comfortable.
The Integral Coach Factory has set a target of manufacturing 75 Vande Bharat trains by August 2023.
It also has a photocatalytic ultraviolet air purification system in the roof-mounted package unit (RMPU) for air purification.
Vande Bharat Express is a new-age train redefining passenger travelling in India. (ANI)

Bhopal, Oct 13 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath has asked the party workers and leaders to gear up for upcoming assembly elections which are scheduled in November-December 2023.

The former Chief Minister made the remarks while addressing the gathering of party leaders who won panchayat and municipal elections two months back.

Nath said that the municipal elections were just a rehearsal ahead of the assembly polls. He said that not much time has left for the elections, and thus all party leaders and workers should tighten their shoelaces now.

"...the real test is coming now and you have to work with double energy. It's time to meet the people, and convince them of Congress's ideology. People are fed up with the false propaganda of the BJP and they want change in Madhya Pradesh," Nath added.

Meanwhile, Nath also accused the BJP of using money and administrative power during the urban and panchayat elections. Police and administrative officials were forced to work for the ruling party. "We are preparing a list of such officials who have worked for the BJP. I ask you too to find out the officials who are working as political agents. We are going to form the government in 2023 and then will teach them a lesson," he added.

Delhi-based Congress politician Jai Prakash Agarwal, who has recently taken charge as in-charge of Madhya Pradesh, slammed the BJP for mocking Rahul Gandhi's "Bharat Jodo Yatra".

"BJP leaders can't understand the meaning of 'Bharat Jodo'. They (BJP) are doing all these things because they have realised that Rahul Gandhi is going to be a bigger challenge after this 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'," Agarwal said while addressing the gathering.

Notably, the Congress has won five mayoral posts in municipal elections, including Gwalior and Morena, the region which is considered the strong bastion of two Union Ministers - Jyotiraditya Scindia and Narendra Singh Tomar.

Chennai, Oct 13 (IANS) Congress president post candidate and veteran leader Mallikarjun Kharge will be given a rousing reception by the party's state unit on his arrival to Tamil Nadu on October 14, sources said.

Tamil Nadu Congress chief K.S. Alagiri said on Wendesday that he will remain present when Kharge will reach Chennai for campaigning.

It may be noted that no prominent party leader was present at Satyamoorthy Bhavan, the TNCC headquarters, when Shashi Tharoor, who is also contesting the party president post election, reached Chennai for his election campaign.

Alagiri, however, told IANS that there was no direction from the high command to support any candidate. He also said that it was not mandatory to be present when the candidates reach the city for campaigning.

He further said that he was not in the city when Tharoor had arrived.