Memory power seemed to be the buzzword at the release of President Pranab Mukherjee’s memoir Thursday. According to senior journalist Chandan Mitra, Mukherjee has unparalleled memory, “barring” L K Advani. He recalled that earlier, those with any doubt on any election result could just approach “Pranab Da”, who would have the details of even the candidates who stood fifth or sixth. This memory is reflected in Mukherjee’s personal diary, in which he has been writing a page daily.
‘Goodwill’ Hunting
Ministers got some praise, and some criticism, at their meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday. Topping the list of Modi’s complaints was the ministers’ inability to communicate the government’s achievements to the people. He has asked them to devote at least 30 hours every month to spread the “goodwill” message. The PM was also unhappy at the controversial remarks made by some ministers, which, he thinks, will take away attention from the welfare programmes.
Different Tunes
In a break from the long-standing tradition of playing only military tunes during the Beating Retreat ceremony, this year’s event will witness a new blend of music, with the sitar, santoor and tabla likely to make their debut alongside military bands. Raisina Hill is expected to see around 50 musicians playing classical Indian instruments on Friday.
Careful Omission
The home ministry on Thursday released a list of reasons justifying imposition of President’s Rule in Arunachal Pradesh. While listing most of the reasons cited by Governor J P Rajkhowa, the note, however, does not mention his reference to former CM Nabam Tuki’s ministers joining protesters when they sacrificed a mithun outside Raj Bhavan.