Jharkhand: Crores of rupees wasted in PMShri scheme, now half a dozen suppliers under investigation – Jharkhand pmshri yojana scam investigation

Jharkhand: Crores of rupees wasted in PMShri scheme, now half a dozen suppliers under investigation – Jharkhand pmshri yojana scam investigation

Updated: Sat, 13 Dec 2025 09:46 (IST) A case of irregularities worth crores of rupees has come to light in Jharkhand in PMShri scheme, after which half a dozen suppliers are under investigation. This case is related to financial fraud in PMShri scheme. File photo Jagran Correspondent, Chaibasa. A case of large-scale irregularities has come to light in Jharkhand in the amount of crores of rupees sent in 2024-25 under the ambitious PMShree scheme run by the Prime Minister. Around Rs 25 lakh has been sanctioned to each Prime Minister Shree Vidyalaya. This amount was sent by JEPC Ranchi to all the 24 districts of the state but the district level program officers together played a well planned game to embezzle this amount. Remove ads Read news only Fake signatures coerced from school principals District program officials across the state pressured school principals and got them to sign pre-drafted similar bills. The suppliers were predetermined and all orders were placed with them. The acquisition process is completely bypassed. Many principals were called to the block or district office and forced to sign the documents. The material did not arrive, but 100 percent payment was made. Band party equipment, musical instruments, cultural costumes, sports materials etc. were to be purchased for the schools, but most of the schools did not receive any materials. No entry was made in the stock register, nor quality control of goods, nor physical verification. Despite this, the full amount was paid to the suppliers. The most shocking case came to light from West Singhbhum, where lakhs of rupees were sent to private bank accounts. Let us tell you here that the complainant Basant Mahato, a resident of Chakradharpur, had earlier also complained to the Chief Minister in this matter. Basant Mahato, while informing the chief minister’s office about this huge discrepancy, expressed the fear of making many payments without providing any material. Let us also inform that in this case related to 31 March 2025, the Deputy Commissioner has recommended to frame a charge sheet against the school principal, school management committee member, PMShri District Coordinator, Accountant, Accounts Officer, District Education Officer cum District Program Officer for gross negligence, procedural lapses and misuse of government funds. At the same time, preparations are being made to blacklist the guilty sellers. How much amount was paid to which vendor in West Singhbhum 1. Alka Enterprises – Rs 21 lakh 26 thousand 681.2. Govind Enterprises – Rs 10 lakh 174.3. Inderjeet Kumar Yadav – Rs 47 lakh 23 thousand 714.4. Piyush Aggarwal – Rs 12 lakh 95 thousand 235.5. Piyush Enterprises – Rs 64 lakh 89 thousand 763.

13 दिसंबर, 2001 की सुबह भारतीय संसद, जो भारत की संप्रभुता का प्रतीक है, पर हुआ आतंकवादी हमला एक ऐसी घटना है जिसे देश कभी नहीं भूल सकता। आज, हमले की बरसी पर, देश उन बहादुर शहीदों को याद करता है जिन्होंने देश की गरिमा और लोकतंत्र के मंदिर की रक्षा के लिए अपनी जान कुर्बान कर दी, यह सुनिश्चित करते हुए कि यह सुरक्षित रहे। यह भारतीय इतिहास की एक ऐसी घटना थी जिसने न केवल देश की सुरक्षा व्यवस्था को चुनौती दी, बल्कि भारत के आत्म-सम्मान पर भी चोट की।
पांच आतंकवादियों ने संसद परिसर में घुसकर गोलीबारी की, जिसमें सुरक्षाकर्मियों और संसद कर्मचारियों सहित नौ लोग मारे गए। संसद भवन में घुसने की कोशिश कर रहे हमलावरों को मार गिराया गया, लेकिन इस घटना से भारत को गहरा सदमा लगा। भारत सरकार ने इस हमले के लिए पाकिस्तानी आतंकवादी संगठनों लश्कर-ए-तैयबा (LeT) और जैश-ए-मोहम्मद (JeM) को जिम्मेदार ठहराया। तत्कालीन प्रधानमंत्री अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी की नेशनल डेमोक्रेटिक अलायंस (NDA) सरकार ने पाकिस्तान को सबक सिखाने के लिए 1971 के युद्ध से भी बड़े सैन्य अभियान की तैयारी शुरू कर दी।
भारत ने ऑपरेशन पराक्रम शुरू किया, जिसमें लाखों सैनिकों (500,000 से 800,000) को सीमा पर तैनात किया गया। पाकिस्तान ने भी लगभग 300,000 सैनिकों को सीमा पर तैनात किया। द्वितीय विश्व युद्ध के बाद यह पहली बार था कि दो देशों के इतने बड़ी संख्या में सैनिक एक-दूसरे के सामने थे। हालांकि, पाकिस्तानी सीमा पर लगभग नौ महीने तक तैनात भारतीय सेना को पीछे हटना पड़ा। हालांकि भारत को कूटनीतिक रूप से फायदा हुआ था, लेकिन सैनिकों को वापस बुलाने का फैसला तभी लिया गया जब तत्कालीन पाकिस्तानी राष्ट्रपति जनरल परवेज मुशर्रफ ने आतंकवादी समूहों के खिलाफ कार्रवाई करने का वादा किया। आज भी, यह सवाल कि देश युद्ध के कगार से पीछे क्यों हट गया, राष्ट्र को परेशान करता रहता है।
पृष्ठभूमि और तत्काल प्रतिक्रियाएँ
2001 का संसद हमला कोई अकेली घटना नहीं थी। यह कश्मीर मुद्दे और भारत और पाकिस्तान के बीच लंबे समय से चले आ रहे संघर्ष का हिस्सा था। 1999 के कारगिल युद्ध के बाद दोनों देशों के बीच तनाव पहले से ही बहुत ज़्यादा था। इसके बाद पाकिस्तान समर्थित आतंकवादियों द्वारा कंधार विमान अपहरण किया गया। एक साल भी नहीं बीता था कि पाकिस्तान ने एक और नापाक कोशिश की। 13 दिसंबर, हमले के दिन, आतंकवादियों ने नकली आईडी और वाहनों का इस्तेमाल करके संसद में प्रवेश किया और अंधाधुंध गोलीबारी की। हमले में उपराष्ट्रपति कृष्णकांत की गाड़ी को भी निशाना बनाया गया था, लेकिन किस्मत से किसी बड़े नेता को नुकसान नहीं पहुंचा। हाल ही में रिलीज़ हुई फ़िल्म “ध्रुव”, जो भारतीय सिनेमाघरों में सुपरहिट रही है, ने भारतीय लोगों के लिए इस ज़ख्म को फिर से हरा कर दिया है।
हमले के बाद सरकार का तुरंत जवाब आक्रामक था। गृह मंत्री लाल कृष्ण आडवाणी ने संसद में बोलते हुए कहा कि यह हमला एक पाकिस्तानी साज़िश थी। NDA सरकार ने मांग की कि पाकिस्तान LeT और JeM के नेताओं को गिरफ्तार करे, उनके दफ्तर बंद करे और उनकी संपत्ति ज़ब्त करे। जब पाकिस्तान ने इन मांगों को नज़रअंदाज़ किया, तो भारत ने 21 दिसंबर, 2001 को अपने हाई कमिश्नर को वापस बुला लिया। इसके बाद, जनवरी 2002 तक, भारत ने सीमा और लाइन ऑफ़ कंट्रोल (LoC) पर लगभग आठ लाख सैनिक तैनात कर दिए थे। यह ऑपरेशन पराक्रम का हिस्सा था, जो अब तक भारत का सबसे बड़ा सैन्य जमावड़ा था।
लेकिन इस जमावड़े के पीछे युद्ध करने का इरादा कितना गंभीर था? कैबिनेट कमेटी ऑन सिक्योरिटी (CCS) ने कई बैठकें कीं, जहाँ सीमा पार हमले या सीमित युद्ध पर चर्चा हुई। राष्ट्रीय सुरक्षा सलाहकार बृजेश मिश्रा ने कहा कि CCS ने सर्वसम्मति से फैसला किया था कि आतंकवाद को बर्दाश्त नहीं किया जाएगा, और ज़रूरत पड़ने पर सीमा पार ऑपरेशन किया जाएगा। हालांकि, विदेश मंत्री जसवंत सिंह ने युद्ध की संभावना से इनकार करते हुए कहा कि ध्यान संयम पर है।
क्या सरकार अनिर्णायक थी?
जनवरी 2002 के पहले हफ़्ते में, भारतीय सशस्त्र बलों को पाकिस्तान के साथ संभावित युद्ध के लिए तैनात किया गया था। युद्ध से पहले की अंतिम तैयारियां तेज़ी से चल रही थीं। युद्ध के लिए समय भी बेहद सही माना जा रहा था। इस सैन्य तैयारी को ऑपरेशन पराक्रम कोडनेम दिया गया था। भारत के पास साफ़ तौर पर सैन्य बढ़त थी। दूसरा, अमेरिका में 9/11 हमलों के बाद अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर रणनीतिक स्थिति ने पाकिस्तान को मुश्किल स्थिति में डाल दिया था। तीस सालों में पहली बार, भारतीय सशस्त्र बल पूरी तरह से तैयार थे और सिर्फ़ राजनीतिक “हरी झंडी” का इंतज़ार कर रहे थे, जो कभी नहीं मिली। कई रक्षा और राजनयिक विशेषज्ञों ने इसे भारत के लिए एक रणनीतिक विफलता बताया। शायद हमने अपनी पारंपरिक सैन्य श्रेष्ठता का इस्तेमाल करके पाकिस्तान को आतंकवाद के खिलाफ निर्णायक कार्रवाई करने के लिए मजबूर करने का आखिरी मौका गंवा दिया।
सवाल उठता है: अगर यह एक विफलता थी, तो इसका कारण क्या था? क्या यह उस समय की अनिर्णायक सरकार की गलती थी? क्या यह अंतरराष्ट्रीय दबाव के कारण था? क्या परमाणु खतरा इसका कारण था? या क्या सैन्य नेतृत्व पूरी तरह से तैयार नहीं था?
द प्रिंट में, लेफ्टिनेंट जनरल एच.एस. पनाग (रिटायर्ड) लिखते हैं कि संसद हमले के बाद कैबिनेट कमेटी ऑन सिक्योरिटी (CCS) की एक मीटिंग हुई थी, जिसमें तीनों सेना प्रमुख शामिल हुए थे। पनाग बताते हैं कि राजनीतिक नेतृत्व सीमित कार्रवाई चाहता था, जो सिर्फ़ जम्मू और कश्मीर तक सीमित हो। सेना प्रमुख ने तर्क दिया कि संभावित परमाणु तनाव या बड़े युद्ध की संभावना को देखते हुए पूरी तरह से सैन्य लामबंदी ज़रूरी है। काफी विचार-विमर्श के बाद, यह तय किया गया कि सेना को दो हफ़्ते के अंदर ज़रूरी तैयारियां पूरी कर लेनी चाहिए। युद्ध पर अंतिम फैसला बाद में सरकार लेगी।
CCS ने परमाणु खतरे पर विस्तार से चर्चा नहीं की, लेकिन यह मान लिया गया था कि अंतरराष्ट्रीय दबाव और परमाणु जोखिम सामने आने से पहले हमारे पास लगभग दो हफ़्ते हैं। यह भी तय किया गया कि हमें अफ़गानिस्तान में अमेरिकी युद्ध के लिए पाकिस्तान से गुज़रने वाली अमेरिकी लॉजिस्टिक्स से पूरी तरह दूर रहना होगा। इससे भारतीय नौसेना के कराची-केंद्रित ऑपरेशन्स और वायु सेना के सिंधु नदी के पश्चिम में होने वाले ऑपरेशन्स पर साफ़ तौर पर पाबंदियां लग गईं।
इस तरह, भारत संसद हमले से मिले अवसरों का पूरी तरह से फायदा नहीं उठा पाया, जो 9/11 हमलों के तीन महीने बाद हुआ था। पनाग लिखते हैं कि CCS मीटिंग में कुछ भी तय नहीं हुआ, जैसे कि कौन सा इलाका कब्ज़ा करना है, दुश्मन की सैन्य क्षमताओं या अर्थव्यवस्था को कितना नुकसान पहुंचाना है, या युद्ध का ‘अंतिम नतीजा’ क्या होगा। नौसेना प्रमुख एडमिरल सुशील कुमार के अनुसार, उन्होंने खास तौर पर सरकार से राजनीतिक उद्देश्य पूछे थे ताकि उनसे सैन्य लक्ष्य तय किए जा सकें, लेकिन सरकार ने कोई उद्देश्य नहीं बताया।
क्या सेना की तैयारियों में कोई दिक्कत थी?
CCS मीटिंग में, वायु सेना और नौसेना ने कहा कि वे एक हफ़्ते में युद्ध के लिए तैयार हो सकते हैं। हालांकि, सेना को गंभीर चुनौतियों का सामना करना पड़ा। रक्षा मोर्चों पर तैनात यूनिट्स 72-96 घंटे में तैयार हो सकती थीं। लेकिन तीन स्ट्राइक कोर, जो भारत की मुख्य हमलावर शक्ति हैं, सीमा से काफी पीछे तैनात थीं और उन्हें पूरी तरह से ऑपरेशनल होने में तीन हफ़्ते लगते। एक सेना कमांडर ने कहा कि उन्हें युद्ध के लिए अतिरिक्त ट्रेनिंग का समय चाहिए। उन्होंने फील्ड मार्शल मानेकशॉ (1971) का उदाहरण दिया और बताया कि उन्होंने उस समय अपना पक्ष कैसे रखा था। यह ज़ाहिर तौर पर तत्कालीन सेना प्रमुख के लिए एक दुविधा बन गया।
क्या परमाणु युद्ध का खतरा था?
1998 के परमाणु परीक्षणों के बाद, दोनों देश परमाणु शक्ति बन गए थे। टकराव के दौरान, पाकिस्तान ने परमाणु धमकियाँ दीं, जिससे भारत अलर्ट हो गया। फियरफुल सिमेट्री में, गांगुली और हेगर्टी तर्क देते हैं कि परमाणु युद्ध के डर ने बड़े पैमाने पर संघर्ष को रोक दिया। यह किताब 2001-2002 के संकट का परमाणु युद्ध की छाया में विश्लेषण करती है, जहाँ दोनों पक्षों को पता था कि तनाव परमाणु स्तर तक पहुँच सकता है। वी.के. सूद की किताब में RAW के एक आकलन का ज़िक्र है कि युद्ध सीमित रह सकता था, लेकिन परमाणु खतरा 50% से ज़्यादा था। सूद लिखते हैं कि हमने पाकिस्तान को रोकने के लिए सेना जुटाई, लेकिन जब हमने कालूचक के बाद भी हमला नहीं किया, तो यह साफ़ था कि परमाणु जोखिम हमें रोक रहा था।
हालांकि, कई लोगों का मानना ​​है कि उस समय, परमाणु हथियारों को पहुँचाने की क्षमताएँ काफी शुरुआती थीं, सामरिक परमाणु हथियार विकसित नहीं हुए थे, और परमाणु सीमा साफ़ नहीं थी। इसलिए, परमाणु युद्ध का कोई खतरा नहीं था। इसके अलावा, बढ़ते तनाव के बावजूद, भारत और पाकिस्तान एक संधि के तहत अपने-अपने परमाणु ठिकानों की सूचियों का आदान-प्रदान कर रहे थे, जो परमाणु सुविधाओं पर हमलों को रोकती थी। शायद यही एक और कारण था कि उस समय किसी भी तरह के परमाणु युद्ध की संभावना कम लग रही थी। पाकिस्तान को भी पता था कि परमाणु हथियारों के इस्तेमाल से उसका अपना विनाश हो जाएगा।
आंकड़े बताते हैं कि युद्ध से बचने का राजनीतिक फैसला शायद सही था
सेना को 16 अक्टूबर तक, कुल नौ महीनों तक आगे बढ़ने का आदेश नहीं दिया गया था। इस सैन्य जमावड़े पर लगभग 2 बिलियन डॉलर का खर्च आया और इसमें 800 सैनिकों की आकस्मिक मौतें हुईं। द टेलीग्राफ में 30 मई, 2003 की एक रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, हमने ऑपरेशन पराक्रम के दौरान बिना युद्ध लड़े ही 1,874 सैनिक खो दिए। द टेलीग्राफ इस लेख में रिपोर्ट करता है कि, सैन्य तैनाती खत्म होने के छह महीने बाद संसद में दिए गए एक जवाब में, यह खुलासा हुआ कि 300 दिनों से कुछ ज़्यादा समय तक चले इस सैन्य अभ्यास के दौरान 1,847 लोग मारे गए या घायल हुए थे। हालांकि, ऑपरेशन पराक्रम, जैसा कि इस अभ्यास को कहा जाता है, पर संसद में न तो चर्चा हुई है और न ही बहस।
सरकार और विपक्ष के बीच एक अलिखित समझौता है कि इसका सार्वजनिक रूप से विश्लेषण नहीं किया जाएगा। इस चुप्पी का साफ़ कारण यह डर है कि बड़े सैन्य अभियानों की सार्वजनिक जानकारी राष्ट्रीय सुरक्षा को खतरे में डाल सकती है। यह दोहराना ज़रूरी है कि 1,847 मौतें 1999 के कारगिल युद्ध में हुई 600 मौतों से काफी ज़्यादा थीं। राज्यसभा में अपने लिखित जवाब में रक्षा मंत्री जॉर्ज फर्नांडिस ने यह नहीं बताया कि कितने लोग मारे गए और कितने घायल हुए।

Property dealer kidnapped in broad daylight in Kotputli, police sealed the city within minutes, miscreants ran away in fear

Property dealer kidnapped in broad daylight in Kotputli, police sealed the city within minutes, miscreants ran away in fear

Kailash Vijayvargiya, a 65-year-old real estate dealer who was abducted in broad daylight in Kotputli, Rajasthan, was safely rescued by the police within just four hours. Due to the quick action of the police, the kidnappers could not succeed in their plan and were forced to flee, leaving the businessman near Nehera village. This great success was achieved by the police team led by DSP Rajendra Burdak and SHO Rajesh Sharma. The businessman left his house to go to the temple. The whole incident started at 11 am in the morning when some miscreants forcibly abducted businessman Kailash Vijayvargiya, who left his house to go to the temple in RK Vihar Colony of Kotputli. A neighbor told the police that he saw some people forcing Kailash Vijayvargiya into a car. Panicked, however, she could not record the vehicle number or identify the accused. When the family reached the spot, they found the businessman’s bicycle and a shoe on the ground. This signal confirmed the suspicion of kidnapping and the police immediately formed teams that considered it a serious crime. Lives were saved by immediate blockade and raid. As soon as the information was received, the police started the operation led by DSP Rajendra Buradak. Blockade has been imposed on the main roads of Adarsh ​​​​Nagar and its surroundings, including RK Vihar. Police began scanning the CCTV footage to identify the vehicle used in the abduction. The businessman’s cell phone was constantly switching off, making it difficult to track his location. Police teams working on the corner of old rivalry, land disputes and extortion have launched continuous raids in Sarund, Adarsh ​​Nagar and rural areas. According to police sources, the kidnappers were scared due to police pressure and continuous siege. They ran away, leaving the businessman safely near Nahrera village away from the city. The police team immediately took action and caught him there. Search for criminals continues – DSP DSP Rajendra Burdak, while giving information about the safe recovery of the businessman, said that due to the vigilance and immediate action of the police team, a great success was achieved. He said, “As soon as we received the information, we sealed off the entire area without any delay. Swift action was taken on CCTV footage and local inputs. Due to police pressure, the criminals escaped without harming the businessman. The priority of the police was to find the businessman safe, which was done. Now police teams are searching for the kidna.” The police have collected some important clues, based on which they claim that they will soon catch the criminals. The family breathes a sigh of relief, now the interrogation will begin. The news of Kailash Vijayvargiya’s safe recovery brought relief to his brother Ramnarayan Vijayvargiya and the entire family. The family expressed gratitude to the police administration. The police will now interrogate industrialist Kailash Vijayvargiya in detail to find out the motive behind the kidnapping – was it for ransom, was it a property dispute or some old enmity. The police will also try to find out how many criminals were involved in the kidnapping and which route they used. Share this story Tags

BAP leader’s advice to Babulal Kharadi, said – leave the post of minister and become a religious leader.

BAP leader’s advice to Babulal Kharadi, said – leave the post of minister and become a religious leader.

Political tension rose over tribal minister Babulal Kharari’s statement. A Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP) leader hit back and demanded the resignation of the minister. BAP district president Amit Kharari even suggested that he resign from the post of minister and become a religious leader. Last Thursday (December 11), tribal minister Babulal Kharari attended a program at Deola in Gogunda constituency. He vehemently attacked BAP during the foundation stone laying ceremony of Eklavya Residential School. He appealed to the public not to allow BAP members to roam around too much. BAP responded to this issue. Minister does not answer questions on scams in department: BAP A leader of BAP said that tribal minister Babulal Kharari discusses religion in front of school children. If he wants to talk about religion then he should resign from his constitutional post and become a religious leader. He also alleged that spice scam and hand pump scam took place in tribal hostels. No answer is given to this. When asked questions, they start talking about religion. Kharadi asked, “If the tribes are not Hindus, then who are they?” The cabinet minister said, “They (BAP) say tribals are not Hindus, then tell me who they are? Do you worship your ancestors or not, do you go to the temple or not? That party says if you don’t go to the temple, where will you live?” Share this story Tags

In Bhilwara, the dead body of a newborn became the food of a stray dog, it wandered for hours on the banks of the canal with its neck in its mouth.

In Bhilwara, the dead body of a newborn became the food of a stray dog, it wandered for hours on the banks of the canal with its neck in its mouth.

A heartbreaking incident came to light in Bhilwara district of Rajasthan, which shook everyone. The incident took place near a canal near ESI Hospital in the city. The body of a newborn girl was dumped in the woods in the cold. The circumstances were very frightening. The dogs tore the dead body badly. This horrific incident came to light when local people saw a dog walking near the canal with the corpse of a newborn girl in its mouth. People were shocked to see this terrible scene and a huge crowd gathered on the spot. The dog scratched the girl’s body badly. According to reports, some evil mother may have left the baby girl in the woods shortly after birth. A stray dog ​​in search of prey saw the newborn girl and tried to eat the girl, tearing at the dead body. Then he kept roaming near the canal and kept cutting the dead body in half. Meanwhile, some people saw this incident and informed the police. This incident shook the whole area. Police on scene, investigation ongoing. According to information received from local people, the Pratap Nagar police immediately reached the spot and recovered the mutilated body of the newborn baby from the dog’s mouth. They kept him in the mortuary of the district hospital. After the case was registered against unknown people, the police started investigating the case. Share this story Tags

‘One dead body, four pieces and a shocking murder mystery…’ Read the entire crime story of the bloody father in one click.

The police found four bags at four different places in an area near Ahmedabad. All these bags contained different parts of the same corpse. The police were shocked and wondered what animosity the killer had towards the victim that he scattered the pieces of the body over the city. The police continued their investigation and eventually found the killer. And when the identity of the killer and the motive for the murder came to light, the police were stunned. 18 July 2022, Vasna area, Ahmedabad It was morning time. People had just started coming out of their homes when they suddenly got scared after witnessing a horrifying scene in the Vasna area of ​​Ahmedabad. Residents saw a dead body lying near a garbage dump. She was badly mutilated. The surprising thing was that he had no head, arms and legs. Only the torso remained, and it began to rot. This sight was so terrible that the people nearby became afraid. The police reached the spot and started investigation. Forensic team was also called to the spot. Later, the body was sent for postmortem. But the biggest problem was identifying the dead body, which was impossible without a face. Therefore, the case was handed over to the Crime Branch. The police swung into action and started their investigation in Vasna area. The footage from all the nearby CCTV cameras was viewed, but initially no clue was found. The body had no identity card or mobile phone. The forensic team took DNA samples. Doctors said it appears that death was due to injuries, but the exact cause will be known only after the post-mortem. When no leads were found, the police made a list of suspects and focused on drug addicts. Rumors of Gang War Meanwhile, rumors began to spread in the city that it could be a case of gang war. Crime branch officer Raghavji Patel alerted his team. Four days passed, but there was no success. The mysterious killing of an unknown person made headlines all over Gujarat. This matter became a topic of discussion everywhere. 23 July 2022, Ellis Bridge area, Ahmedabad This was the day when panic spread in the Ellis Bridge area, just 3 km from Vasna. A street vendor saw a suspicious polythene bag lying in a garbage heap which gave off a strong smell. As soon as the bag was opened, the people present there were shocked. Inside the polythene bag were two severed human bones. The police reached the spot. The whole scene was before him. The police suspected that these bones could be those of a torso found in lust. That place was immediately sealed. Forensic experts reached the spot and examined the bag and the area where blood stains were also present. The length of the legs and the color of the skin matched the torso found in Vasana. This discovery gave a new direction to the matter. Police have issued an alert in the area. Now it looked like the killer was cutting the body into pieces and throwing the parts away. Because of this, the people of the city became even more afraid. Suspicious elderly man caught in CCTV footage After the man’s two legs were found, police searched more than 50 CCTV cameras installed in Ellis Bridge and surrounding areas. Meanwhile, a CCTV footage showed an elderly man throwing a polythene bag onto a scooter in the dark of night. The elderly man’s face was covered, but the scooter’s number was clearly visible. It was an important clue for the police. The crime branch traced the scooter number. It was revealed that the scooter was an old vehicle of Gujarat Transport. The police reached its owner. During interrogation, it came to light that he had sold the scooter to an elderly man in Ambawadi for Rs 10,000 two weeks ago. Now the police had an idea. They were looking for that old man. The police obtained his information. The investigation was expedited. The police reached the supposed elderly man. The name of the elderly man who bought the scooter was M. Jani. He was 62 years old and retired as a Class-2 Transport Officer. The police found his house in Ambawadi. It turned out that Jani was not alone. His sister lived on the ground floor, while he lived with his son Hitesh on the top floor. During interrogation, Jani’s sister revealed that Hitesh had been missing for several days. Police interviewed Jani, who said her son was a drug addict and often wandered off. His answers made the police suspicious, and they decided to search his house. With this step he came closer to the truth. Jani appeared nervous during police questioning but remained silent. The investigators noted that his home was extremely clean. On 24 July 2022, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad Police, especially the crime branch team, raided Jani’s house with full preparation. During the raid, a sharp knife with dried blood stains was found in the kitchen. A grinder was found in the bathroom, which appeared to have been purchased recently. Light bloodstains were clearly visible on the floor, which the forensics team examined and took samples. Hitesh’s clothes and ID proof were found in the cupboard. After this, the investigation team arrested Jani. His sister told the police that strange noises were heard at night. When the CCTV camera footage was viewed, Jani was seen on a scooter. The police’s suspicion about the father deepened. Meanwhile, Jani is sad. Jani gave an explanation during questioning, but the police remained suspicious. Police checked his phone records. Painful background of the family: Elder M. Jani was from an ordinary family. His wife died several years ago. Their only son Hitesh was 21 years old and studied at Gujarat University. But drug addiction ruined everything. Hitesh often asked for money for booze and drugs and beat his father every day. Jani wanted peace after retirement, but he was fed up with his son’s behavior. Jani’s sister lived downstairs, but she was not aware of the suffering that happened upstairs. Neighbors told police that they fought every day. But Jani never complained. The pain of this family became the reason for the murder. Jani now regretted taking her son’s life. What happened on the night of the incident? During interrogation, Jani confessed that he and Hitesh had a fight on the night of 18 July. Hitesh asks for money for drugs, and Jani refuses. Hitesh angrily attacked him with a piece of wood. In self-defence, Jani picked up a stone and hit Hitesh 6-7 times on his head. Hitesh fell unconscious and died soon after. Jani became nervous after the death of his son. He thought that if the police came, his family would be destroyed. So he made a plan to get rid of Hitesh’s dead body. Even the police officers were surprised to hear this confession. After the murder, the body was cut into pieces, Jani went to Kalupur market and bought an electric grinder. Returning home, he spent 4-5 hours butchering Hitesh’s body. He separated the head, both arms and legs from the torso. Then he threw the upper body into the Vasna area. He packed the rest in polythene bags. He visited many places including Jivraj Park and Parimal Garden to do relaxation. This whole process took 12 hours. Jani said that he did all this to destroy the evidence. Police found blood on the grinder. Even doctors were horrified by this cruelty. The post-mortem examination confirmed the injuries. Jani’s performance looked like something out of a movie. The police tried to recover all the body parts of Hitesh. Failed attempt to escape After committing the crime, Jani suspects that the police are closing in on him. So, on July 22, he left home and went to Surat, where he met a relative. After that he went by train to Gorakhpur and from there to the border of Nepal. His plan was to start a new life. But the crime branch tracked him down through human intelligence. When the RPF surrounded him at the station, Jani protested but was captured. Hitesh’s photo was also taken out of his pocket. When the police caught him, Jani started crying bitterly. The police told him that running away was useless and now he will be produced in court. Jani told the police that he loves his son and now regrets his actions. The night of July 18 became a dark chapter in his life. Confession and all the evidence collected In police custody, Jani confessed everything. The torso found in Vasna was that of Hitesh, which was confirmed through DNA testing. The feet found near Ellis Bridge also belonged to Hitesh. The blood samples found at home belong to Hitesh. Jani was clearly visible in the CCTV footage. The grinder and knife have been sent for forensic examination. There was no other accused in this case. Jani said that everything happened in anger and there was no plan. However, there was a plan to dispose of the dead body. A case has been registered against Jani under section 302 of IPC. Police said drug addiction destroyed the family and turned the father into a killer. A lesson for society: After the case was solved, Jani was sent to prison. Hitesh’s last rites were performed by the state government as the family was devastated. Only his sister remained. After this incident, the Gujarat government started paying more attention to drug control. The police are believed. Security has been increased in Ahmedabad. The story is a tragic tale of a father-son relationship and a warning to society to give up drug addiction before it’s too late.

Watch Video: Congress leader Prahlad Gunjal hits back at Amit Shah’s statement, raises questions about infiltrators.

Watch Video: Congress leader Prahlad Gunjal hits back at Amit Shah’s statement, raises questions about infiltrators.

Congress leader Prahlad Gunjal on Friday launched a sharp counter-attack on the statement given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha. Gunjal issued a video statement saying that the statement made by the Home Minister in Parliament was impractical and irresponsible. He raised the question that if the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister decide on the cases of infiltration, then how democracy will be safe. Gunjal said it is the responsibility of the home minister to clarify before the country who is an infiltrator and who is not. He said that this supremacy should be determined only by the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central Government. He alleged that the home ministry is trying to fulfill its political agenda by shirking its responsibility and imposing this work on the Election Commission. In the video statement, Gunjal made it clear that political gain on sensitive issues like infiltration and country’s security is seriously dangerous for democracy. He said, “If the central government is not clear on such matters, not only will security questions arise, but public confidence in the government will also weaken.” Gunjal also claimed that due to the attitude of the Ministry of Home Affairs, an attempt is being made to put undue pressure on the Election Commission. He said that constitutional institutions should have full right to exercise their independence and responsibilities and should not be influenced by any political pressure. This statement is considered politically important because in recent times the series of statements and allegations and counter-allegations about infiltration and border security has been going on. Raising such issues by leaders of opposition parties can be seen as an attempt to strengthen their position among their constituency and the public. Political analysts also say that Prahlad Gunjal’s statement highlights the growing dispute between the central and state governments over the attribution of responsibility in infiltration cases. This issue may become a subject of debate at Lok Sabha and state level in future. Gunjal finally appealed to the home minister to clarify the situation before the citizens and follow the law and constitutional process instead of political gains. He also said the protection of democracy and respect for constitutional institutions are the hallmarks of a responsible government. In this way, Congress leader Prahlad Gunjal seriously challenged the statement of Home Minister Amit Shah and called for transparency and accountability in infiltration cases. Share this story Tags

Manu S. Pillai: The Complicated History of English and Indian Identity

Manu S. Pillai: The Complicated History of English and Indian Identity

Copyright © HT Digital Streams Limited All rights reserved. English education did not really achieve the goal intended by its first sponsors, the British. (istockphoto) Summary Indians embraced English for employment and enrichment, turning it into a powerful tool for colonial resistance In 1784, two white men joined forces to establish an English school in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. John Sullivan was British representative at the court of the local rajah, while CF Schwartz was a missionary who worked for a long time in India. In promoting English education, they naturally had specific goals. Sullivan lamented how British officials depended on “self-seeking dubashes” (interpreters) for business. If the “chief natives” adopted English, however, these troublesome middlemen could be eliminated. What attracted Schwartz, meanwhile, was that Western education offered to break the “stubborn attachment” Indians had to their religion, helping the “spread of Christianity.” Higher-ups in London agreed. For them, English instruction promised another benefit: the inculcation of “native minds” with “respect for the British nation”. On the face of it, it was a perfect “win-win”. Except these figures did not include a key element: the motivations of Indians themselves. India’s involvement with English has been in the news a lot lately. This follows a recent speech by the Prime Minister, in which he cited the infamous Lord Macaulay and his colonial-era attempt to apparently “uproot Bharat from its own foundation” by creating a class of Indians who are brown in color but white in spirit. The result, the Prime Minister added, was a “sense of inferiority” about all things Indian, with a mindless ape of the West and a devaluation of local languages. To a serious extent this is true, in that English and what it represents has gained – and still holds – immense power in our country. For example, there remain patrician clubs where the dress code frowns on kurta-pajamas and permits brogues, but not Kolhapuri slippers. Fifty years after independence, Salman Rushdie could similarly claim that “Indian writers working in English” were producing “more important” work than those writing in our bhashas—a comment that certainly did not age well. That said, it is simplistic to assume that British scoundrels of Macaulay’s type landed here with wicked designs, and that Indians tragically succumbed to said designs. Because the fact is that the British became very dissatisfied with the way “natives” deployed English and subverted the colonizer’s grammar book for their own purposes. For example, Schwartz in Thanjavur hoped to spread Christianity via his school. Yet it was clear from the start that most pupils were simply learning English for “temporary welfare”. That is, they saw the language as a route to work and enrichment – money they then poured into temples and local institutions. Decades later, missionaries would find that Brahmins also read the Bible, viewing it not as a vehicle for spiritual rediscovery, but as that everyday thing: a textbook. Indians, in other words, did not passively stick to a script written by foreign puppet masters. They had agency and engaged selectively, and indeed strategically, with Western food. Take one of India’s earliest high-profile products of English education: the Thanjavur rajah Serfoji II (1777-1832) was taught directly by Schwartz. He spoke more than one European language, “radiated English poetry”, studied modern science, collected books from around the world, enjoyed Western music and even referred to his missionary teacher as his “father”. On the surface, Serfoji is a perfect example of brown complexion plus white culture. Yet the rajah never repented. In fact, he was a patron of temples and Vedic academies, inclined to distribute cows to Brahmins, possessed a magnificent collection of Sanskrit manuscripts and remained, as a disappointed European visitor put it, a “slave of Hindu superstition”. Naturally, he admired Western advances in medicine, technology, etc., and translated them into local languages. But it was a confident, calculated embrace of European ideas, without separating itself from the wider package we call cultural identity. But Serfoji was a prince. What about more ordinary men? While employment was one element in Indians’ zeal for English education, it does not tell the whole story. As the scholar Parimala V.Rao notes, of the 900 boys who graduated from English schools in Western India between 1824-36, less than 100 sought official posts. Yes, many white men offering English education thought they were creating an army of loyalist clerks to serve the Raj. Yet English also produced “political leaders, professional men and intellectuals”. One of the first systematic critiques of colonial rule emerged just six years after Macaulay’s views were aired. In 1841, a young man named Bhaskar Pandurang published a review, which surprised British imperialism for its racism, economic devastation, its religious agenda, and more. And he did it in the English language in an English newspaper; he seized Western weapons to attack Western power. Indians involved in teaching were also aware of the politics surrounding English education; they were not meek instruments of a colonial agenda. For example, the Bengali textbook writer Akshay Kumar Datta (1820-66) worked hard to bring modern science to his people. He acknowledged European technological superiority and criticized an Indian tendency to place too much faith in custom. But he was not ignorant of the context in which European science came to India; he could see his country’s political prostration. White men here, he declared, showed “greed”, “self-love and immense malice”. They embodied “humble instincts.” That is, even as he admired the West’s technical achievements and encouraged Indians to learn, this approval was neither unqualified nor total. Accepting value in English education was not tantamount to legitimizing colonialism. If that were the case, BG Tilak – a fiery nationalist if ever there was one – would have set up old-fashioned pathasalas, not the New English School and Fergusson College. None of this suggests that English was not disruptive; it drove patronage away from local knowledge systems and languages ​​in many places, and the damage has still not been repaired. It has also created a kind of anglicized Indian whose idea of ​​achievement is entirely Western; there are frameworks of thought that do alienate us from our own. Jawaharlal Nehru thought adopting English as “the official all-India language” was “humiliating”. Mahatma Gandhi was even more damning. Yet it is also true that English’s place in our history is not black and white. As for colonialism, we need only ask whether English achieved the goals intended by its first sponsors. It was expected that Western education would Christianize India. It failed. And if white figures in the 1780s thought English would make loyal subjects of “natives,” a hundred years later colored men from across the country gathered under the banner of the Indian National Congress to chart the course for anti-British nationalism. And they did it in English. Which explains why the status of this language in India remains: “It’s complicated.” Manu S. Pillai is a historian and author, most recently, of Gods, Guns and Missionaries. Get all the Business News, Market News, Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. 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Choose from these 8 washing machines for wool clothes and make them last through seasons

Choose from these 8 washing machines for wool clothes and make them last through seasons

A washing machine for woolen clothes plays a key role in helping you care for delicate winter fabrics at home. Wool reacts to rough movement, hot water or fast spinning, which makes it important to choose the best washing machine that can handle these garments with precision. Fully automatic washing machines today include built-in wool care cycles that use slow drum actions and stable temperatures to prevent fibers from stretching or shrinking. Our picks BEST OVERALL VALUE FOR MONEY FAQ Product Rating Price BEST OVERALL Samsung 9 kg, 5 Star, AI EcoBubble, Super Speed, Wi-Fi, Hygiene Steam with Built-in Heater, Digital Converter, Fully Automatic Front Load Washing Machine (WW90DG5U24AXTL, Inox) View Details, ₹8 K3, LG Star, 90 K3, LG Star, 90 Star. Wi-Fi, Direct Drive Technology, Steam Wash, 6 Motion DD, Fully Automatic Front Load Washing Machine (FHB1208Z4M, Allergy Care, Built-in Heater, Touch Panel, Mid Black) View Details ₹35,990 Check Details Panasonic 10 Kg Wifi Fully-Smart Automatic Washing Machine 0NA, Silver, 0NA Drynamic Spin) View Details Get Price LG 8 Kg, 5 Star, Smart Inverter Technology, Wi-Fi, Turbowash, Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machine With Built-in Heater (T80V4OB1S, Turbodrum, Stain Clean, Hard Water Wash & Jetspray+, Onyx Black) View Details 9 ₹K 26, Bosch 90 KAI Details, Bosch 90K26 Water+, Anti-stain, Iron Steam Assist, Anti Tangle Fully Automatic Front Load Washing Machine (WGA2420SIN, Built-in) Warmer, Allergy Plus, Anti Wrinkle, Dark Silver) View Details ₹36,990 Go Details View More Many top washing machine brands offer wool-approved programs that lift the natural dirt without gently disturbing the dirt. These machines also adjust the spinning speed to protect sweaters, shawls and fine wool layers. Choosing the right appliance gives you the freedom to wash your winter clothes with more confidence without worrying about damage. A thoughtfully designed washing machine for woolen clothes helps you save time while leaving each garment looking smooth, fresh and well preserved. The Samsung 9kg Front Load Wool Washing Machine is built to handle heavy laundry loads with careful material handling. Its AI EcoBubble technology mixes detergent, water and air to deep clean even at lower temperatures. The Super Speed ​​program was finished in just 39 minutes, saving time on busy days. Hygiene Steam targets germs and allergens, helping to keep clothes clean and hygienic. The SpaceMax drum increases capacity without increasing the machine size. A digital inverter motor ensures quieter operation and better energy efficiency. Reasons to buy Quick cleaning with Super Speed ​​program Steam eliminates 99 percent of germs Energy-saving AI modes Reason to avoid Higher price point What are buyers saying on Amazon? Shoppers appreciate the fast wash cycles and thorough cleaning, which keep clothes hygienic and fresh. Why choose this product? Choose this washing machine for woolen clothes to enjoy high-capacity, efficient and hygienic laundry care. 2. LG 8 Kg, 5 Star, Wi-Fi, Direct Drive Technology, Steam Wash, 6 Motion DD, Fully Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine (FHB1208Z4M, Allergy Care, Built-in Heater, Touch Panel, Mid Black) Our Principles Full Transparency Each product review clearly lists the pros and cons, giving you a balanced view. Brand trust We focus on products from brands with a proven reputation and long-standing market trust. This LG 8kg fully automatic washing machine for wool is designed for smooth, efficient everyday laundry with a strong focus on fabric protection. The Direct Drive motor works with fewer moving parts, which helps the machine run steadily and last longer. Built-in steam technology refreshes clothes and tackles common allergens, improving overall hygiene. Smart drum movement patterns automatically adjust to suit different materials and ground levels. Through the ThinQ app, wash cycles can be started, paused or monitored remotely. A wide selection of programs supports diverse laundry needs, while the stainless steel drum and high-speed spin help deliver cleaner clothes with shorter drying times. Specifications Dimensions 55D x 60W x 85H cm Special feature Direct Drive, Steam wash, ThinQ Wi-Fi, Allergy Care Access Location Front loading Reasons to buy Allergen-free steam wash Quiet, durable direct drive motor Reason to avoid Slightly lower capacity for larger families What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the low noise, energy efficiency and smart application control. Why choose this product? Choose it for reliable direct drive technology, hygienic steam washing, and smooth everyday performance. The Panasonic 10kg Top Load Wool Washing Machine is built for powerful stain removal and efficient everyday washing. Active Foam Wash creates rich foam that effectively lifts dirt from fabric. Drynamic Spin improves water removal and helps clothes dry faster after each cycle. A built-in heater enables hygienic hot washing, while the advanced pulsator design delivers consistent and thorough cleaning. AI-powered wash programs sense load size and automatically adjust water levels, detergent usage and cycle duration. With 15 wash options covering delicate to bulky loads, the machine offers great flexibility. A rust-resistant metal body adds durability, while the large lint filter and child lock improve ease of use and safety. Reasons to buy Active Foam lifts deep dirt Smart load detection saves water and energy Wi-Fi allows convenient remote control Reason to avoid Large footprint requires space What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers often praise the effective stain cleaning, smooth daily operation and useful smart functions. Why choose this product? Go for this if you want strong cleaning performance, intelligent wash control and hygienic results. The LG 8kg Smart Inverter Top Load Wool Washing Machine is designed for consistent performance with a strong focus on durability and ease of use. The TurboDrum system works with the Punch+3 Pulsator to create a powerful water flow that loosens stubborn dirt. Smart Inverter technology helps to reduce energy consumption while maintaining stable washing results. A built-in heater supports deeper cleaning by tackling stains and common allergens. Specialized wash modes, including spot clean and hard water wash, add flexibility for different laundry needs. T Specifications Dimensions 56D x 54W x 92.5H cm Special feature TurboDrum, Inverter, Built-in Heater, ThinQ Wi-Fi Reasons to buy Energy-saving inverter technology Heater support for deep cleaning Reason to avoid Fewer wash modes compared to premium models What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers highlight the strong spot cleaning performance, solid build quality and convenient smart application control. Why choose this product? Opt for efficient laundry, lower energy consumption and practical smart functions for daily laundry. Designed for demanding household laundry needs, this Bosch 9kg front load washing machine for wool cl focuses on strength, efficiency and fabric protection. AI Active Water+ precisely adjusts water consumption to match each load, helping to reduce waste. The EcoSilence Drive motor keeps operation smooth and noticeably quiet. Steam Assist supports hygienic laundry by reducing bacteria, while anti-wrinkle and anti-tangle features help clothes retain their shape. A choice of 14 washing programs offers flexibility for different fabrics and soil levels, supported by a fast 1200 RPM spin. Specifications Dimensions 59D x 59.8W x 84.8H cm Special feature AI Active Water+, Steam Assist, Anti-wrinkle, EcoSilence Drive Access Location Front loading Reasons to buy Steam and anti-wrinkle protection for fabric Durable motor with quiet operation Reason to avoid Premium machine at a higher price point What are buyers saying? Buyers regularly praise the effective steam washing performance, quiet operation and solid overall build quality. Why choose this product? Choose it for large load handling, hygienic steam cleaning and thoughtful fabric care features. Built to handle heavy laundry needs, the LG 11 kg semi-automatic washing machine suits homes with regular and large laundry loads. The powerful 1300 RPM motor improves water extraction and helps clothes dry faster. Wind Jet Dry further reduces moisture by circulating air during the spinning process. The Roller Jet Pulsator works with Punch+3 technology to create strong water streams that effectively remove stubborn dirt. With a 5-star energy rating, the machine supports efficient power consumption. Added Rat Away protection helps protect internal components, making the washer durable and reliable for everyday use. Specifications Dimensions 54.5D x 90.5W x 102.5H cm Reasons to buy Large 11 Kg capacity Efficient Wind Jet Dry function Reason to avoid Requires more floor space What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers often mention the spacious drum, powerful motor performance and noticeably faster drying. Many families appreciate its ability to manage bulk laundry comfortably. Why choose this product? Go for this if you need high capacity laundry, efficient power usage and strong pulsator based cleaning. The Haier 10.5 kg top load washing machine suits households that regularly manage large and mixed laundry loads. Oceanus Wave Drum technology generates controlled water movement that removes dirt while maintaining fabric comfort. An integrated heater enables warm and hot wash options, supporting improved hygiene for everyday clothes. Eight dedicated programs address diverse needs, including baby care, wool, sportswear and air dry cycles. A 780 RPM spin speed helps to effectively reduce moisture without being harsh on garments. The stainless steel drum improves durability and maintains washing hygiene. Specifications Dimensions 58.5D x 55W x 101H cm Special feature Oceanus Wave Drum, Built-in heater, Soft falling door Reasons to buy Large 10.5 Kg load capacity Hot wash options for hygienic cleaning Reason to avoid Bulkier build compared to smaller models What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the efficient hot wash performance and suitability for handling large laundry loads. Why choose this product? Opt for this model to enjoy strong cleaning power and hygienic hot water washes for the whole family. The IFB 6 Kg Front Load Washing Machine combines intelligent AI powered cleaning with compact design. DeepClean and PowerSteam remove tough stains while protecting fabric quality. The 9 Swirl Wash gently treats delicate items and repeats hand washing movements. Its eco-converter motor balances energy efficiency with reliable performance. Steam Refresh quickly revives clothes without water or detergent, making it a practical solution for small households or those who need frequent, quick washes. Specifications Dimensions 51.8D x 59.8W x 87.5H cm Special feature AI-powered, DeepClean®, Steam Refresh, Eco-inverter Access Location Preload Reasons to buy AI detects dust and optimizes wash Steam Refresh saves time and water Reason to avoid Not suitable for very large families who say Amazon buys? Buyers appreciate its smart AI functions, soft material care and space-saving design. Many find it effective for everyday quick laundry. Why choose this product? Choose this machine for advanced cleaning technology, energy efficiency and compact convenience without sacrificing performance. The Voltas Beko 9 Kg semi-automatic washing machine for woolen clothes is designed to handle heavy laundry loads efficiently. The double waterfall technology ensures thorough cleaning while being gentle on fabrics. A high-speed 1350 RPM motor accelerates dry, and the 5-star energy rating keeps electricity consumption low. The cassette filter maintains the quality of the garment, and the rust-resistant body adds durability. Ideal for large families, it combines power, efficiency and long-lasting performance. Specifications Dimensions 48D x 83.5W x 98H cm Reasons to buy Double Waterfall Technology High 1350 RPM motor Reason to avoid Heavier to move around What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the robust performance, quick drying and fabric-friendly cleaning. Many mention that it reliably handles regular heavy loads. Why choose this product? Choose this model for reliable large-capacity laundry, efficient drying, and advanced water flow technology that protects clothes. The Haier 8 Kg front loading washing machine has a spacious 525 mm Super Drum, which m enabling easy handling of large loads of laundry. Its inverter BLDC motor delivers quiet, durable performance while consuming minimal energy. PuriSteam technology effectively removes allergens, ideal for sensitive skin. With 5 stars for efficiency, it uses just 7.59 L/kg of water. With 15 versatile wash programs including quick, sportswear, baby care and self clean, it meets everyday and specialized laundry needs. Specifications Dimensions 85D x 59.5W x 85H cm Special Feature AI Powered, PuriSteam, Inverter BLDC Motor Access Location Front Loading Reasons to Buy Large Super Drum for Heavy Loads PuriSteam Effectively Eliminates Allergens Reason to Avoid Larger Footprint Needs Extra Space What Are Buyers Saying on Amazon? Buyers praise its spacious drum, quiet performance and effective allergen-removing steam cycles. Why choose this product? Choose it for generous capacity, energy-efficient operation and allergy-aware steam washing. The VW 7.5 Kg Aqua Spin washing machine delivers reliable cleaning for everyday laundry. Its 1350 RPM motor and roller jet pulsator ensure thorough washing, while three specialized wash programs cater for different fabric types. The rust-free plastic body guarantees durability, and additional features such as a collar scrubber and lint collector facilitate maintenance. This compact yet efficient washing machine for woolen clothes makes regular laundry tasks faster, cleaner and more convenient for small households. Specifications Dimensions 75D x 47W x 95H cm Reasons to buy High 1350 RPM spin speed Collar scrub and lint filter Reason to avoid Manual water handling required What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate its robust motor, effective cleaning and long-lasting build. Many also appreciate the lint filter and collar scrub for easier maintenance. Why choose this product? Choose it for strong performance, versatile wash programs and extra features that protect and care for fabrics. Why do woolen clothes require specialized washing cycles in a washing machine? Wool fibers tighten when exposed to strong agitation or high temperatures, resulting in shrinkage and distortion. Specialized wash cycles offer controlled movement and gentle drum rotations that protect fiber elasticity. A machine designed for wool keeps water temperature stable, reduces friction and ensures gentle handling, so the material can retain shape, color and texture after several washes. How does temperature control improve washing results for woolen fabrics? Precise temperature control helps wool retain its natural softness. High heat causes fibers to contract, while very cold water can trap dirt. Wool-specific cycles regulate temperature to safe levels, balancing warmth and comfort for effective cleaning. This prevents sudden fiber reactions and supports longer fabric life without roughness or shrinkage. How do wool programs differ from quick wash or daily wash modes? Wool programs use gentle tumble, slow spin speeds and steady temperatures to protect delicate fibers. Quick wash and daily wash cycles focus on speed and stronger movement, which can damage wool. Wool modes are designed to clean thoroughly at a lower intensity, making it safer for expensive winter clothes. Factors to consider before buying the best washing machine for woolen clothes: Capacity: Choose a capacity that can handle woolen clothes such as sweaters and shawls. These items hold more water, so a machine with steady and balanced drum movement offers better protection. Temperature control: Choose models that offer precise temperature adjustment. Stable, controlled heat prevents wool fibers from stiffening and keeps your garments soft and well-shaped. Wool-specific wash cycle: Choose a machine with a dedicated wool cycle that uses gentle drum action and safe temperature levels to protect delicate fibers. Drum Design: Look for a drum with smooth interiors and soft wave patterns. This helps to reduce friction and protect wool from surface damage. Spin speed options: Choose a machine with low spin settings. Lower speeds reduce stress on wool fibers and prevent stretching during drying. Detergent compatibility: Make sure the machine supports mild, wool-safe detergents. It protects natural oils in the fabric and prevents roughness. Load Sensing: Go for models with intelligent load sensors. These adjust water levels and drum movement to suit wool items, reducing excessive agitation. Inverter motor: Prefer machines with inverter motors. They provide consistent, vibration-free performance that keeps delicate fibers safe throughout the wash. Top 3 Features of the Best Wool Washing Machine: Best Wool Washing Machine Capacity Key Features RPM Samsung 9 Kg Preload (AI EcoBubble) 9 Kg EcoBubble, Super Speed, Hygiene Steam, Wi-Fi 1400 RPM LG 8 Kg Pre Load (Direct Drive, 8 Kg Mo 6 Steam) 1200 RPM Panasonic 10 Kg Top Load (active foam + heater) 10 kg active foam, AI Smart Wash, heater 700–740 rpm* LG 8 kg top load (TurboDrum + heater) 8 Kg TurboDrum, Punch+3, Smart Load Inverter 9team Kg Assist (for Bosch 9team Kg Team) Assist, Anti-Wrinkle, EcoSilence 1200 RPM LG 11 Kg Semi-Automatic 11 Kg Roller Jet, Punch+3, Wind Jet Dry 1300 RPM Haier 10.5 Kg Top Load (Oceanus Wave Drum) 10.5 Kg Heater Wash, Air Dry 7BG (Front Drum IF, 80 RPM) Steam Refresh) 6 Kg DeepClean, PowerSteam, Eco Inverter 1000 RPM Voltas Beko 9 Kg Semi-Automatic 9 Kg Double Waterfall, Cassette Filter 1350 RPM Haier 8 Kg Preload (Super Drum) 8 Kg 525 mm Drum, PuriSteam, BLDC5 Motor 1350 RPM. 7.5 Kg Roller Jet, Collar Scrubber 1350 RPM Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may earn a small commission on purchases you make through the retailer site links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing effort. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend that you verify details with the retailer before making a purchase.

Best of the week: What happens when one airline dominates

Best of the week: What happens when one airline dominates

Dear Reader, More than a week of chaos in Indian aviation has revealed how fragile the system is when it is dominated by a single airline. IndiGo canceled more than 2,000 flights after new crew duty rules came into force. These rules limit flight hours to reduce pilot fatigue. They were announced in early 2024 with a phased rollout, but IndiGo was unprepared. Its lean staffing model, once key to controlling costs, left it with too few pilots per plane even as its fleet continued to expand. When the new norms kicked in, the airline could not cope. Since IndiGo operates more than half of all domestic flights, the disruption quickly paralyzed the entire network. Other carriers did not have the capacity to pick up stranded passengers. The government eventually relaxed the rules to ease the crisis, but the episode revealed a deeper problem. India’s aviation market has become so concentrated that operational lapses at one airline can bring the entire system to a standstill. On the best of Mint’s journalism this week: Government plans bigger push for labor-intensive sectors in FY27 budget The government is preparing a stronger push for labor-intensive industries in the FY27 budget, with the aim of supporting job creation and tapping India’s demographic dividend. Officials say new and expanded schemes will focus on fiscal incentives, skills and market access, along with higher spending on health and education. The move seeks to balance capital-intensive manufacturing with sectors that generate more employment and help build a stronger base of mid-sized enterprises. India’s informal-heavy economy and limited number of firms in the middle-income group have intensified the need for targeted support. Experts say promoting MSMEs, improving infrastructure in smaller cities and increasing productivity in low margin sectors such as textiles and auto parts are essential. IPL’s $2 billion question: Can RCB justify its valuation? United Spirits is weighing the future of its RCB ownership as rising IPL valuations collide with Diageo’s global cost pressures. The drinks major is reviewing its 100% stake in the franchise, which contributes less than 2% to revenue and sits uncomfortably in its core alco-bev portfolio. Potential buyers range from Adani Group to Serum Institute, backed by reports that Diageo could seek up to $2 billion, well above the Gujarat Titans’ recent benchmark of $860 million. The team is profitable and has enjoyed recent sporting highs, but growth is limited by broadcast-linked revenue and Virat Kohli’s impending retirement. What to expect from India’s customs reforms India is moving ahead with a major customs overhaul to simplify duties, reduce costs for businesses and strengthen its role in global supply chains. Exporters who rely heavily on imported inputs have long argued that the current structure increases their costs and slows operations due to port delays. The reform is expected to reduce basic customs duties, shrink the number of tariff sheets and introduce more transparent, technology-driven processes with minimal physical checks. Establishing tax inversion is a key priority, especially for sectors such as electronics, mobile devices, chemicals, textiles and white goods. Indian Comic Icons Get a Makeover to Win Back Gen Z India’s classic comic heroes are stepping back into the limelight with fresh storylines, modern settings and digital-first formats. Publishers are revamping icons like Chacha Chaudhary, Suppandi, Nagraj and Shikari Shambu to reconnect with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who have been drifting towards Japanese manga. Characters now take selfies, talk about mental health and use AI, while retaining the nostalgic charm Millennials grew up with. Rising spending power helps. Fans who once bought ₹10 issues are now paying ₹200-300 for new releases and over ₹1,000 for special editions. Publishers are expanding into animation and experimenting with diverse stories that reflect how young people talk and care about today. Manga still dominates sales, supported by OTT plug-ins and fast trade deliveries, but Indian creators believe the way forward is reinvention. Sanjay Malhotra’s first year shows a governor seizing his moment Sanjay Malhotra’s first year as RBI governor was shaped by a rare window of low inflation and steady growth, and he moved quickly to capitalize on it. He delivered 125 basis points of interest rate cuts, which he saw as insurance in a world still reeling from uncertainty. Unlike his predecessor Shaktikanta Das, Malhotra allowed the rupee to weaken and embraced the “impossible trinity”, a principle that says a central bank cannot control monetary policy, capital flows and the exchange rate simultaneously. His hands-off attitude even prompted the IMF to shift India’s forex regime classification. With growth upgraded to 7.3% and inflation forecasts too low, Malhotra’s approach won plaudits, but experts say future moves will depend entirely on how quickly the macro cycle shifts. AI Bots Reshape India’s Debt Collection Business AI is quietly transforming India’s debt collection industry, replacing gut-based decisions with data, behavioral profiling and automated empathy. Startups like DPDzero, Credgenics and Gnani are helping lenders move from Excel sheets to AI-powered systems that analyze tone, payment patterns and past interactions to tailor conversations. Borrowers are now segmented into personas such as supportive, negotiating or escape, allowing algorithms to adjust scripts, timing and follow-up. Voice bots are increasingly handling early-stage crime in multiple languages, while human agents only step in for complex cases. Lenders say this hybrid model improves recovery rates and reduces losses, with AI-assisted agents collecting more while sounding more empathetic than traditional callers. Currency Explainer | Dirty air trick: How north Indian rice farmers outsmart satellites A new study by the think tank International Forum for Environment, Sustainability and Technology (iForest) suggests that north India’s air pollution story is more complicated than official data shows. Researchers found that many farmers in Punjab and Haryana light paddy stubble burning after 3 p.m., long after polar orbiting satellites make their daily pass. These satellites, which provide “active fire counts” using sensors that detect heat signatures, have indicated a 90% drop in fires since 2021. But when iForest switched to geostationary satellites, which continuously monitor the same region, it found that nearly 29,000 sq km of farmland actually burned in 2025. The findings matter because Delhi’s pollution models rely on the sharper but time-limited fire count data to estimate how much stubble burning contributes to winter smog. Big Tech’s India push Amazon is deepening its India bet as Big Tech races to build AI infrastructure in the country. The company plans to invest $35 billion in e-commerce, cloud, entertainment and devices by 2030, while expanding fast-commerce operations and speeding up deliveries in smaller cities. It comes as global rivals pour money into AI-ready data centers. Microsoft has also committed $20.5 billion this year, including a new Hyderabad facility opening in 2026 and wider sovereign cloud services. His plan also includes training 10 million more people in AI skills. Along with major moves by Google, AWS, Reliance, TCS and L&T, total AI-centric data center commitments for 2025 now stand at $42.5 billion, indicating India’s growing strategic role in global technology. New twist in Byju’s-Aakash rights issue saga The Byju’s Aakash battle has taken a sharper turn. Fresh RoC filings show that UAE businesswoman Bisy Philip subscribed to ₹16.09 crore worth of Aakash shares. This is the same right that was earlier linked to Beeaar, the Singaporean vehicle linked to Byju Raveendran. The switch marks a quiet relinquishment that probably needed approval from the Manipal-controlled AESL board. Creditors are expected to question the move. They believe this could deduct value from Aakash shares pledged for earlier loans. The dispute adds new uncertainty over control of AESL at a time when Byju’s problems continue to mount. Railways eyes three new freight corridors to boost freight speed Indian Railways is considering three new Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) worth around ₹1.5 trillion to build a nationwide freight loop and deepen its reach across the eastern, southern and central regions. Detailed project reports are ready and a corridor will be selected first based on feasibility and demand. The East Coast Corridor is likely to lead, given its strong mineral flows and port connections. The plan comes as freight volumes increase and existing corridors ease congestion. But some experts question whether more DFCs are worth the cost, pointing to underutilized routes and advocating instead for faster passenger lines and better first- and last-mile links.