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Recently, there has been much discussion about Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Temple, which was inaugurated on January 22, 2024. Following this, another temple in Uttar Pradesh has entered the realms of discussions, this time in the Sambhal district. The temple, known as Kalki Dham Temple, had its foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, do you know what makes the Kalki Dham Temple in Sambhal so special?

Important facts related to Kalki Dham:

• Firstly, let’s understand the location of Kalki Dham Temple in the Sambhal district. The temple is slated to be constructed in the Ankara Kaboh area.
• The temple’s spire will rise to a height of 108 feet, with a platform at the top at an additional elevation of 11 feet.
• The construction of Kalki Dham Temple will utilize stones similar to those used in the construction of the Somnath Temple in Saurashtra and the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
• Kalki, considered the 10th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is believed to appear in the future according to Hindu scriptures. It is said that during the last phase of the Kali Yuga, Lord Vishnu will take the avatar of Kalki to bring an end to the age of darkness.
• Near the ancient Kalki Dham Temple, there is a white horse idol placed in the Kalki Peeth. According to tradition, when Kalki incarnates, he will ride a white horse. The idol is positioned with three hooves on the ground and one in the air. It is believed that when the fourth hoof touches the ground, Kalki will be considered to have incarnated.
• The temple will be constructed on a spacious five-acre site to accommodate the anticipated influx of devotees in the future.
• The construction of Kalki Dham Temple will strictly avoid the use of any iron or steel. Instead, the temple will be built using the traditional interlocking method, a style prevalent in temple construction in India.
• The completion of the temple is expected within the next five years, after which devotees will be able to visit this grand edifice.
• The temple will feature 10 sanctums showcasing the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu.
• Additionally, the temple will have 68 holy water tanks, and a sculpture will be installed while preserving the ancient Kalki Peeth.

Ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, also known as the Dashavatara:

1. Matsya (The Fish) Avatar:
   • In this avatar, Lord Vishnu took the form of a fish to save the ancient scriptures (Vedas) and the sage Manu from a great deluge.
   • Matsya guided Manu’s boat through the turbulent waters, ensuring the survival of humanity and knowledge.
2. Kurma (The Tortoise) Avatar:
   • Lord Vishnu incarnated as a tortoise to support Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan).
   • The churning of the ocean was to obtain the nectar of immortality (amrita).
3. Varaha (The Boar) Avatar:
   • In this form, Lord Vishnu manifested as a boar to rescue the Earth (personified as the goddess Bhudevi) from the demon Hiranyaksha.
   • Varaha lifted the Earth out of the cosmic ocean, symbolizing the restoration of cosmic order.
4. Narasimha (The Man-Lion) Avatar:
   • Lord Vishnu took the form of Narasimha to protect his devotee Prahlada and to defeat the demon king Hiranyakashipu.
   • This avatar represents the simultaneous existence of ferocity and compassion.
5. Vamana (The Dwarf) Avatar:
   • In the Vamana avatar, Lord Vishnu appeared as a dwarf Brahmin to subdue the demon king Bali.
   • Vamana asked for three paces of land and then expanded to cover the entire universe in three steps.
6. Parashurama (The Warrior with an Axe) Avatar:
   • Lord Vishnu incarnated as Parashurama, a Brahmin warrior with an axe, to rid the world of corrupt and oppressive Kshatriya rulers.
   • Parashurama is known for his martial skills and dedication to upholding dharma.
7. Rama Avatar:
   • The seventh avatar, Rama, is the central figure in the epic Ramayana. He exemplifies ideal kingship, virtue, and devotion to duty.
   • Rama’s quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana is a timeless tale of righteousness.
8. Krishna Avatar:
   • Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar, is a charismatic and divine figure in Hinduism. His teachings are recorded in the Bhagavad Gita.
   • Krishna played a crucial role in the Mahabharata, guiding Arjuna and establishing the principles of dharma.
9. Buddha Avatar:
   • This avatar represents the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. Lord Vishnu incarnated as Buddha to teach compassion, non-violence, and the path to enlightenment.
   • Buddha’s teachings laid the foundation for Buddhism.
10. Kalki Avatar:
    • The future avatar, Kalki, is yet to come. It is prophesied that Kalki will appear on a white horse wielding a sword, bringing an end to the current age of darkness (Kali Yuga).
    • Kalki is expected to restore righteousness and usher in a new era of truth and virtue.

These avatars of Lord Vishnu signify his willingness to incarnate whenever there is a decline in dharma (righteousness) and an increase in adharma (unrighteousness) to restore cosmic order and protect the virtuous.

UP Police Constable Paper Leak:

Reports of a leaked paper for the UP Police Constable exam are spreading rapidly on social media. Meanwhile, the board has stated this matter. What does the board have to say, let’s find out.

UPPRPB Issues Statement About UP Police Constable Paper Leak 2024:

Various discussions are taking place regarding one of Uttar Pradesh’s major recruitment exams, the UP Police Constable Exam. Social media is filled with news of paper leaks. However, the board clearly states that there has been no paper leak. Some mischievous elements are spreading rumors. Stay vigilant, and become part of this process without any doubt or suspicion. In the meantime, the UP Police Recruitment and Promotion Board has also issued a statement regarding the paper leak.

CM is also being tagged. Amidst the news of paper leaks, candidates have tagged the Chief Minister on social media and sent messages. These messages state that the second shift paper of the exam held on February 17 and 18 has been leaked. However, the Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board has denied these news reports.

What the Board Says:

The board shared a message on media platform X, stating that it has been found in the preliminary investigation that anti-social elements are spreading rumors about the paper leak on social media using the Telegram editing feature. The board, along with the UP Police, is closely examining the authenticity of these sources. The examination is secure and is proceeding smoothly. Candidates do not need to be misled by any misconceptions like paper leaks.

Recruitment for More Than 60,000 Positions:

It is worth mentioning that through this recruitment drive of UP Police, candidates will be recruited for a total of 60,244 constable positions. According to media reports, nearly 48 lakh candidates participated in the exam this time. These candidates are not only from Uttar Pradesh but also from other states. Moreover, the police recently arrested 122 individuals who were attempting to create disturbances in the exam.

Result of negotiations of fourth round on MSP :

The central government is willing to provide MSP for four more crops, a decision that needs to be formalized for a five-year term.

Farmers will need to enter into a five-year agreement with NAFED and CCI for the production of lentils, urad, corn, and cotton. Today, farmer organizations will announce their final decision on the government’s proposal, while the ongoing agitation continues.

Addressing the issue of the minimum support price (MSP) for crops, in the fourth round of talks held in Chandigarh on Sunday between farmer leaders and three central ministers, the central government has expressed readiness to implement MSP for four additional crops. Apart from rice and wheat, the proposal includes lentils, urad, corn, and cotton, but for this, farmers will need to enter into a five-year agreement with the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) and the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI).

At the meeting on the central government’s proposal, farmer leaders present stated that they would consult with all organizations and announce the final decision on Monday. After a nearly five-hour-long meeting, Union Minister Piyush Goyal informed journalists that the fourth-round discussion was highly positive.

Diversification of crops is essential to conserve groundwater levels in Punjab and Haryana. In this context, the government has proposed a progressive plan, and most farmers have expressed conceptual agreement.

Meanwhile, during the meeting, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, addressing reporters outside, emphasized the crucial need for crop diversification, provided the government guarantees MSP for alternative crops. Following this, other crops could also be brought under its ambit. We await the response of farmer organizations to the central government’s proposal.

Earlier in the discussion, farmer leaders made it clear that they would not settle for anything less than legal guarantees for MSP, citing the central ordinances. The meeting, which began with a delay of about two hours, included Union Ministers Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal, and Nityanand Rai, along with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian.

Even before the meeting, farmer leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal stated that they would not accept anything less than an ordinance guaranteeing MSP. The meeting was ongoing at the time of reporting. Meanwhile, the central government has extended the internet ban in seven districts of Punjab bordering Haryana – Patiala, SAS Nagar, Bathinda, Muktsar Sahib, Mansa, Sangrur, and Fatehgarh Sahib – until February 24.

“Internet services were previously suspended in three districts from February 12 to 16. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had raised the issue of internet shutdown in the meeting held on February 15 in Chandigarh with central ministers. Similarly, Haryana has also suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa districts.

Earlier, the United Farmers’ Front had decided in a meeting in Ludhiana to lift toll plaza fees from February 20 to 22. Toll plazas in several districts were also made free on Sunday. In the Ludhiana meeting, 37 farmer unions participated.

Farmers’ Leaders Speak….

After the meeting, farmer leader Jagjeet Singh Dallewal stated that they will discuss the government’s proposal (on MSP) with their platforms and experts, and then arrive at a resolution. Our march will continue until our demands are met. There is a need for discussions on several other demands.

Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Struggle Committee’s General Secretary Sarwan Singh Pandher said that in the next two days, they will discuss the government’s proposal. The government will also consider other demands. If no result is obtained, the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march will continue on February 21.

“Prior to engaging with the farmers’ leaders, central ministers held a distinct meeting at Hotel Hayat with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Chief Secretary Anurag Verma, and DGP Gaurav Yadav. During this session, conversations encompassed not only the concerns of the farmers but also delved into the law and order situation prevailing in the state.”

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born on February 19, 1630, in the hill fortress of Shivneri, Maharashtra. His birth marked the beginning of a legacy that would leave an indelible imprint on Indian history. Born to Shahaji Bhonsle and Jijabai, Shivaji Maharaj’s early life was shaped by the teachings of his mother, who instilled in him a sense of valor, righteousness, and a deep love for his people.

The Legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, born in 1630, was a visionary leader who established the Maratha Empire and played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the Indian subcontinent. Known for his military prowess, strategic acumen, and commitment to justice, Shivaji Maharaj remains an enduring symbol of courage and governance.

Commemorative Events: On this auspicious day, various events are organized across the country to honour Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. From grand processions and cultural performances to informative seminars, the celebrations offer a diverse platform for people to connect with the history and ideals of this iconic leader.

Historical Significance: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s reign is marked by his emphasis on Swarajya, a term that encapsulates self-rule and independence. His administrative acumen, naval achievements, and policies promoting social welfare continue to inspire generations. On his Jayanti, we reflect on the enduring impact of his governance and leadership.

Preserving Cultural Heritage: The day serves as an opportunity to showcase and preserve the rich cultural heritage associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions often host special exhibitions, allowing visitors to delve into the life and times of this legendary figure.

Connecting Generations: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy transcends time, resonating with people of all ages. Educational institutions often organize special programs to introduce younger generations to the heroic tales of Shivaji Maharaj, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their cultural roots.

Unforgettable Events in the Life of Shivaji Maharaj:

1. Coronation at Raigad: One of the most pivotal moments in Shivaji Maharaj’s life was his coronation at the age of 39. On June 6, 1674, he was formally crowned as Chhatrapati at the Raigad Fort. This event symbolized the establishment of the Maratha Kingdom and Shivaji’s vision of Hindavi Swarajya, a realm of self-rule.

2. Guerilla Warfare and Naval Achievements: Shivaji was a master strategist in guerrilla warfare. His military brilliance was evident in his ability to employ unconventional tactics against the mighty Mughal Empire. He established a powerful navy and conducted audacious naval campaigns, securing coastal territories and challenging the dominance of European powers in the region.

3. Fort Conquests and the Treaty of Purandar: His strategic acumen was showcased through the conquest of several forts, including Kondana (Sinhagad), Raigad, and Purandar. The Treaty of Purandar in 1665, signed with the Mughals, allowed him to retain control over several forts, highlighting his diplomatic prowess.

4. Escape from Agra: Perhaps one of the most daring chapters in Shivaji’s life was his escape from the Mughal court in Agra in 1666. Despite being in captivity, he orchestrated a clever plan to flee, showcasing his resourcefulness and determination to regain control over his kingdom.

5. Administration and Policies: Shivaji Maharaj’s reign was characterized by effective administration and policies that aimed at the welfare of his subjects. His system of governance included principles of justice, religious tolerance, and a focus on water conservation, earning him admiration even from his adversaries.

6. Battle of Pratapgad: The Battle of Pratapgad in 1659 was a defining moment in Shivaji Maharaj’s military career. Despite being outnumbered, he displayed exceptional courage and strategic brilliance to secure a decisive victory against the mighty Afzal Khan, solidifying his reputation as a formidable warrior.

7. Legacy and Cultural Impact: Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy extends beyond his military achievements. His emphasis on Swarajya, social justice, and the welfare of his people left an enduring impact. The forts, monuments, and institutions he established stand as a testament to his vision, and his ideals continue to inspire generations, shaping the cultural identity of Maharashtra.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth and the events that unfolded during his lifetime are integral parts of India’s rich historical narrative. His legacy endures not only in the pages of history but also in the hearts of those who continue to draw inspiration from the life of this visionary leader.

For the past 13 months, there’s been an ongoing protest against certain agricultural laws. Unfortunately, clashes between the farmers responding to the “Delhi Chalo” call and the Haryana police have led to significant losses for Punjab’s industry, as they try to prevent the farmers from reaching the national capital. In the last two days, memories of a tough time they faced three years ago have resurfaced.

Thousands of protesting farmers are currently on a long march towards Delhi using their tractors and trucks. The industry in Punjab is wary of a repeat of the events from their 2020-21 protest, where roads were blocked, and trains were stopped.

Impact of Farmers Protest on Local Industries:

This prolonged protest against agricultural laws and the conflicts with the Haryana police have taken a toll on the state’s industry. Attempts to stop the farmers from heading to the national capital are causing substantial losses. In the last two days, memories of a challenging time they faced three years ago are coming back. Industry associations report that roadblocks on national highways are affecting the transportation of goods, and the revival of protests is expected to cause losses to industries and businesses in the state.

The President of the Chamber of Industrial and Commercial Undertakings (CICU), Upkar Singh Ahuja, expressed concern that the industry is already feeling the heat. For instance, in the auto sector, companies supplying auto components to tractor, car, and two-wheeler companies located in other parts of the country are uncertain whether their supply needs will be met on time. “We are already receiving queries,” he said.

Ahuja highlighted the anxiety in the industry due to the risks associated with the ongoing farmers’ protest. He mentioned that the closure of roads and the resulting disruptions in the movement of raw materials and finished goods are causing delays and increased transportation costs. He urged for prompt dialogue between the central government and the farmers to resolve the issues and avoid a repetition of the losses suffered by the state’s industry during the 2020-21 protests.

Despite the non-political nature of the ongoing farmers’ protest led by the United Farmers Front and the Farmers Struggle Workers Front, the situation has intensified with tear gas being used against farmers attempting to enter the state for the Delhi march. Several other farmer groups, not part of the “Delhi Chalo” plan, have decided to conduct protests at railway tracks and toll plazas on Thursday to demonstrate solidarity. While BKU (Ugrahan) has announced its workers will sit on railway tracks at seven locations in Punjab, another group, the United Farmers Front, has decided to free toll plazas for three hours. The industry, particularly in Ludhiana, is concerned about the impact of prolonged disruptions.

Amit Thapar, the Chief of Export Activities for CII Northern Region, commented that blocking railway tracks would have adverse effects, especially for industrial units in Ludhiana. He said, “We were hoping that this agitation would not last long and would not affect the movement of goods, but this is bad news. If these blockades continue, the supply chain will be disrupted. It’s not a good sign for exports.” The Federation of Punjab Small Industries Associations (FOPSIA) President, Badish Jindal, expressed concern that customers are worried, and the cost of logistics and raw materials is increasing. He emphasized the need for the protest leaders to understand the concerns of the industry in Punjab and find a solution through dialogue.

There are various ways in which the farmers’ protest may affect local industries, including:

Transportation: Delivery of crops may be delayed to an unprecedented degree as a result of the farmers’ protest, which might cause disruptions to transportation routes.
Economic Losses: The farmers’ protest may cause businesses and residents to suffer financial losses, which would have an impact on the state of the economy as a whole.
Disturbances: The protest could impede the regular flow of commodities by causing delays in the transportation of goods.