MPs' swachch problem
The complete absence of dustbins in Rajya Sabha seems to be posing problems for the Swachch Bharat Parliamentarian warriors, particularly those from the treasury benches, BJP. Prolonged and regular adjournments give an opportunity to the members from across the party lines to indulge in chit chat and crack jokes. At times, a few MPs also share toffees, candies and eatables. But disposing of the wrappers or napkins is a problem for them. While some keep them in their pockets, bags, wallets or purses, many other throw them on the red-carpeted floors, or at best in the cabins of their desk. These are, however, cleaned by the Parliament Secretariat housekeeping for a tidy next morning session.
No conflict
Following objection from conservationists, the Union Environment Ministry has decided to change the commonly-used expression 'man-animal conflict' to 'human-animal negative interaction'. Conservationists have argued that the animal does not want conflict with human beings in any way. However, yet to get used to the newly-coined expression, a senior official from the Ministry during an event to share the details on the ongoing Tiger Census kept on repeating the word 'conflict', though unintentionally, in his entire presentation. Nevertheless, conservationists are happy that the new expression will certainly go a long way in sensitising people about the issue and help protect the animals.
Monkey biz
Tight security of Parliament House including gun-toting commandoes and hi-tech gadgetry does not deter monkeys from entering the complex at their own free will and roam around as was evident last week. A lone monkey calmly sauntered on the first floor housing Press and Visitors Gallery of the Rajya Sabha and finally jumped off the parapet even as journos and visitors were present in sizable number. Another horde of monkeys was seen comfortably negotiating the electrified fence on the perimeter wall of the House.
Desi shiksha
Swami Ramdev has been on a mission to bring back traditional education in India.
On the lines of his Patanjali products, he is planning to come up with schools based on Indian traditional education system focusing on Hindu philosophy. Ramdev himself hinted this at a recent function held in the national capital. In Haridwar, he runs the Acharyakulam School, which is affiliated to the CBSE Board, but has special focus on the Hindu philosophy, shastras, Sanskrit and the Vedas.
Do-do ghar
As BJP is set to shift its headquarters from 11, Ashoka Road, to a new swanky building close to ITO on February 18, a question is being asked whether it would vacate the former. A clarity is yet to emerge on the issue. "We may retain Ashoka Road too," said a senior leader with a big smile with an add on "do ghar to hone chahiye..".
Carrot & stick
On a day when Railway Minister Piyush Goyal talked tough and asked the concerned authorities to initiate disciplinary action against more than 13,000 railway employees identified as long-term absentees, Railway Board Chairman Ashwani lohani wrote an open letter thanking the strong workforce for their commitment towards the Indian railways, particularly on safety issues. He declared that anyone can visit him and voluntarily report on safety issues, and that he remained optimistic regarding the efforts of employees. While this was CRB's third open letter directly connecting with the staff of the national transporter, the Railway Minister's instructions to all the officers and supervisors to weed out employees from the rolls after following due process has been taken seriously.
Surpanakha talks
The Central Hall on the last day of the Parliament Session was full of discussions on Ramayana and Surpanakha after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dig at Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury, and MoS Home Kiren Rijiju's related social media post. While many veterans discussed the role of Surpanakha, a film actor MP pointed out that it was one Renuka Dharowal who had played the role of Ravana's sister.