National

Om Birla Urges Stakeholders to Play Key Role in Achieving Self-Reliance in Oilseed Production for India

Published

1 year ago

March 23, 2025

On Sunday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla called on all stakeholders, including farmers and scientists, to take an active role in making India self-reliant and a global frontrunner in oilseed production. Speaking at the 45th Rabi All India Oilseeds Seminar in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, he highlighted that the demand for edible oil in India significantly surpasses its domestic production capacity.

Birla urged industry leaders and oil millers to embrace innovation and seek solutions to minimize import dependency, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He noted that India is transforming, and it is crucial for farmers to be empowered as key agents of this change by ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce.

Stressing that farmers and the oil processing industry must collaborate closely, Birla underscored the necessity of producing high-quality oilseeds through advanced research and innovation. He called for proactive partnerships between agricultural scientists and the Oil Millers Association to achieve excellence and self-sufficiency. He encouraged scientists to focus on developing climate-resilient, high-yield seed varieties that would contribute to sustainable growth in oilseed production.

The Speaker highlighted the need for research collaborations with esteemed universities and institutions and advocated for public education on the health benefits of Indian oils, supported by scientific evidence. He noted that the soil and climate in Central India are well-suited for oilseed cultivation, often requiring minimal irrigation, and stated that government initiatives have significantly improved irrigation infrastructure and agricultural productivity.

Emphasizing the nutritional advantages of indigenous oilseed crops, Birla called for promoting these oils to enhance both economic and nutritional security. He reiterated the importance of embracing locally produced oils, reminding everyone that what grows naturally in our soil and climate is most beneficial for health.

He also connected the growth of the oilseeds sector with the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, encouraging farmers to adopt modern technologies, participate in training, and leverage government schemes to achieve better yields and higher incomes. He advocated for entrepreneurial involvement in organic farming, processing, packaging, and distribution of oilseed products, pointing out the substantial opportunities that the Start-Up culture has introduced, even in smaller regions.

The Speaker expressed optimism that the discussions at the seminar would pave the way for a new direction in India’s oilseeds industry and help achieve the goal of self-reliance.

National

Jammu University Introduces Fuel-Saving Measures

Published

3 days ago

May 14, 2026

Namma Kudla

National : The University of Jammu has announced several fuel-saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai said the university has decided to conduct all PhD viva voce examinations online to reduce travel and save fuel.

The university will also prefer virtual speakers for national and international conferences. In another step, the Academic Council meeting planned in Poonch has been shifted to the Jammu University campus to avoid unnecessary travel.

Prof Rai said the measures will help save fuel, time and resources. He also encouraged university staff to use bicycles and carpool while travelling to the campus.

National

One Year On: Pahalgam Attack Still Haunts the Nation

Published

4 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: One year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the nation remembers the 26 people who lost their lives. The attack took place on April 22 at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot.

At first, reports said only five people were injured. Later, it became clear that it was one of the worst terror attacks in the region in decades. Terrorists came out of the forest and opened fire on tourists.

Survivors said the attackers separated men from women and children. They then shot the men at close range. Many victims were reportedly targeted after being asked about their religion.

A heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal sitting beside her husband’s body became a symbol of the tragedy. Her husband, a naval officer, was among those killed.

The group The Resistance front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

After months of tracking, security forces launched Operation Mahadev. On July 28, 2025, all three terrorists were killed after a long search operation.

The attack remains a painful memory and a reminder of the need for strong security.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.