Category: News

On the occasion of World Water Day, the Government of Odisha has launched a series of major water resources initiatives worth approximately ₹2,612 crore, aimed at strengthening irrigation infrastructure and improving water management across the state.

The initiative includes the foundation laying of 17 new projects valued at ₹2,292 crore, along with the inauguration of 124 completed projects worth ₹320 crore. These developments mark a significant step toward enhancing the state’s water resource capacity and supporting long-term agricultural growth.

According to officials, the projects are designed to expand irrigation coverage, improve water availability, and ensure more reliable access to water for farmers across different regions of Odisha. The focus is on creating a more efficient and sustainable irrigation system that can support agricultural productivity throughout the year.

The government emphasized that strengthening irrigation infrastructure is a key priority in its development strategy. Improved water management is expected to benefit rural livelihoods, increase farm output, and contribute to overall economic stability in the agricultural sector.

These initiatives also aim to reduce dependency on rainfall by building more resilient water systems capable of adapting to changing climate conditions. Enhanced irrigation facilities are expected to play an important role in supporting food security and rural development.

Officials stated that this large-scale investment reflects the state’s commitment to building a more prosperous and self-sustaining agricultural economy, where water resources are managed efficiently and equitably.

With the launch of these projects, Odisha is taking a significant step toward ensuring long-term water security and strengthening the foundation for sustainable rural development across the state.

New Delhi, Mar 23 (BNP): Jitendra Singh on Sunday held discussions with representatives of various employee organisations, emphasising the importance of structured dialogue and reforms to address service-related concerns and improve administrative efficiency.

The meeting was attended by delegations from bodies including the Government Employees National Confederation and the Central Secretariat Group-C Employees’ Association, along with representatives from organisations such as the Survey of India, ISRO and India Post.

During the interaction, key issues related to cadre restructuring, promotions, pay parity, allowances and service conditions were raised by the employee representatives. The minister stressed that continuous engagement with stakeholders is essential to ensure smooth career progression and effective governance.

The delegations appreciated initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Narendra Modi, particularly reforms in cadre management and promotion processes. They highlighted that over 10,000 bulk promotions facilitated in recent years by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) have helped reduce stagnation and improve employee morale.

Employee representatives also acknowledged the positive impact of recent reforms but pointed to certain pending issues, including delays in implementation and lack of uniformity across departments, expressing hope for their early resolution.

Responding to the concerns, Singh assured that the issues raised would be carefully examined in consultation with the concerned departments. He underlined the need for better coordination, timely follow-up and a consultative approach to resolving employee grievances.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to continue dialogue and work collaboratively towards strengthening service conditions and enhancing efficiency across government departments.

New Delhi, Mar 22 (BNP): C. R. Patil on Sunday launched the operational framework for Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0, signalling a strategic transition towards long-term sustainability and improved service delivery in rural drinking water systems. The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, on Sunday released the Operational Guidelines of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 as Jal Mahotsav 2026 culminated alongside the Sujal Gram Samvad on the occasion of World Water Day.

The announcement was made at the closing ceremony of Jal Mahotsav 2026, coinciding with World Water Day. The upgraded mission, now extended till December 2028, aims to strengthen governance, accountability and reliability of water supply across rural India.

Speaking on the occasion, Patil said the initiative has evolved from a scheme focused on infrastructure expansion to a transformative programme that improves quality of life, particularly for women and children. He emphasised that the next phase will prioritise consistent water supply, system functionality and long-term resource sustainability.

Highlighting the importance of public participation, the minister said nationwide initiatives such as Jal Mahotsav have helped turn water conservation into a mass movement, encouraging community ownership of water resources.

Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna said the campaign witnessed large-scale engagement across villages through awareness drives, school programmes and community interactions, reinforcing the idea that water management must extend beyond government efforts to collective responsibility.

Under JJM 2.0, the government will focus on defined service benchmarks, decentralised accountability at state and local levels, and sustainability measures such as water conservation, source protection and efficient resource management.

Officials noted that reform-linked agreements with states are being implemented to ensure better outcomes, with several states already committing to the new framework during the campaign.

The event also featured the Sujal Gram Samvad, where village representatives from different states shared their experiences in managing water supply systems, reflecting improved grassroots participation and operational efficiency.

The government reiterated that collaboration between the Centre, states and local bodies, along with active community involvement, will be essential to achieving universal access to safe drinking water and advancing the broader goal of a developed India by 2047.

New Delhi, Mar 23 (BNP): Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the evolving situation arising from the ongoing West Asia conflict and directed a coordinated government response to mitigate its impact on India’s economy and essential supplies.

During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary made a detailed presentation on the global scenario and outlined measures already undertaken as well as those being planned by various ministries and departments. The CCS reviewed the likely implications of the conflict across key sectors including agriculture, fertilisers, food security, petroleum, power, MSMEs, trade, shipping, finance and supply chains.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the conflict could have significant short-, medium- and long-term implications for the global economy and its ripple effects on India, and called for proactive and calibrated countermeasures.

A comprehensive assessment of the availability of essential commodities, including food, fuel and energy, was undertaken. The government expressed confidence that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure uninterrupted supply, with detailed strategies discussed for immediate as well as long-term requirements.

The CCS also reviewed the impact on agriculture, particularly fertiliser availability for the upcoming Kharif season. It noted that sufficient buffer stocks have been maintained and discussed alternative sourcing strategies to ensure continued supply to farmers.

On the energy front, the government assessed that adequate coal stocks at power plants would prevent any disruption in electricity supply across the country.

The meeting also deliberated on diversifying import sources for critical inputs required by the chemicals, pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals sectors. In parallel, efforts will be made to identify and develop new export destinations to promote Indian goods.

The Prime Minister directed that a group of ministers and secretaries be constituted to oversee a “whole-of-government” approach, with dedicated sectoral groups working in consultation with stakeholders to implement mitigation measures.

Stressing the need to minimise the impact on citizens, Modi instructed all arms of the government to work in close coordination and ensure that there is no inconvenience to the public. He also called for effective coordination with state governments to prevent black-marketing and hoarding of essential commodities.

Describing the situation as dynamic, the Prime Minister said continuous monitoring and timely intervention would be critical to safeguarding national interests.

Pune, Mar 23 (BNP): C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday addressed the 81st Foundation Day celebrations of Nisargopachar Ashram in Pune, underscoring the importance of naturopathy and yoga in building a healthy India.

Speaking at the event held in Uruli Kanchan, the Vice-President said institutions like the Ashram are vital to the vision of a “Swasth Bharat”, describing it as not merely an institution but a movement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of simple and disciplined living in harmony with nature.

He noted that both Gandhi, who conceptualised the Ashram, and the farmer who donated land for it deserve the nation’s gratitude. Emphasising Gandhian principles, he said nature is the greatest healer and true health lies in simplicity, discipline, and alignment with natural living.

Highlighting the growing burden of lifestyle diseases, Radhakrishnan said the Ashram’s message is more relevant than ever. He stressed that health goes beyond the absence of disease and includes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, urging people to adopt balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and mental peace.

Recalling his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand and Maharashtra, he said he had witnessed indigenous healing practices among tribal communities, rooted in traditional knowledge and reflecting India’s long-standing civilisational wisdom in holistic healthcare.

The Vice-President said that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India’s traditional systems of medicine have gained global recognition, with AYUSH institutions contributing to preventive healthcare and wellness tourism. He added that yoga and naturopathy complement modern medicine and are valuable contributions from India to the world.

Observing that material success alone does not guarantee happiness, he said true fulfilment lies in balance and harmony. “When individuals are healthy, families become strong; when families are strong, society prospers; and when society prospers, the nation rises,” he said.

Radhakrishnan emphasised that as India moves towards the vision of “Viksit Bharat”, equal focus must be placed on achieving a “Swasth Bharat”, with institutions like Nisargopachar Ashram playing a key role.

On the occasion, he paid floral tributes to Gandhi and Manibhai Desai, and released the book Secrets of Our Happiness, authored by Dr. Narayan Hegde, Managing Trustee of the Ashram.

Among those present were Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, and Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe, among other dignitaries.

Held from 24–25 March 2026 at Gandel Hall in the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra 

CANBERRA, 23 March 2026 – Epson Australia will take centre stage as a Platinum Sponsor at the upcoming Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) National Summit, bringing some of its latest education technology solutions to one of the country’s most influential gatherings of public secondary school leaders.

Held from 24–25 March 2026 at Gandel Hall in the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, the summit will bring together delegates including leading secondary school principals from across Australia, heads of principals’ associations, senior education policymakers, academics, politicians, students and representatives from parent and community organisations.

Organised by the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) — the national peak body advocating for Australia’s public secondary school principals — the summit provides a unique forum to address critical challenges facing schools and to shape the future of secondary education policy and leadership.

As a Platinum Sponsor, Epson will have a prominent presence throughout the two-day event, demonstrating its commitment to supporting educators and equipping schools with innovative, reliable technology designed to enhance learning outcomes and streamline administrative workflows.

Epson’s participation highlights its ongoing dedication to the education sector, where schools increasingly rely on advanced technology to support teaching, collaboration and efficient document management.

Epson technology on display
Summit attendees will have the opportunity to experience one of Epson’s latest solutions designed for education and enterprise environments, the WorkForce DS-32000 A3 high-speed document scanner, designed to streamline document capture and digital record management for busy education environments.

This powerful scanning solution helps schools digitise records, manage administrative tasks efficiently and support paper-to-digital workflows.

Key features of the DS-32000 include:

• High-speed scanning – capable of handling large volumes of documents
• Support for a wide range of media types – including A3 documents and bound materials
• Advanced image processing – for clear, accurate digital records
• Excellent network connectivity – allows easy integration into school workflows

Epson DS-32000 A3 high-speed document scanner

In addition to scanners Epson also has a range of printers designed to meet the needs of the education sector including the WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400, the WorkForce Enterprise AM-C4000 and the SureColor T3160.

The AM-C400 is a compact A4 colour multifunction inkjet printer with a high-resolution output of 600 x 1200 dpi and the AM-C4000 is a high-performance A3 colour multifunction printer with a professional, even higher resolution output of 600 x 2400 dpi. Both printers offer print speeds of up to 40 ISO ppm in mono and colour.

 

Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400

Built for productivity, the AM-C400 and AM-C4000 combine print, copy, scan and workflow integration capabilities in a compact, scalable footprint suited to high-volume environments such as schools, universities and administrative departments.

Powered by Epson’s PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology, these printers deliver fast, reliable and energy-efficient printing while reducing operational costs and environmental impact. 

Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C4000

 

Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400 and AM-C4000 key features include:

• High reliability – simple mechanism for environments where downtime is a not an option

• More sustainable – lower power consumption saves energy thanks to Epson’s Heat-Free Technology

• Small footprint – amongst the smallest footprints in their class

• Solution compatibility – a wide variety of integrated software solutions

• Award winning design – specifically designed to blend in with and complement just about any school, office or work environment

• Powered by PrecisionCore – advanced printing technology engineered by Epson to power the world’s top performing printers

• Work with Epson Remote Services – cloud-based, advanced diagnosis of Epson printers and MFPs

The Epson SureColor T3160M is a compact 24-inch large-format wireless multi-function printer that includes an integrated scanner designed for precision, speed and reliability. Engineered for professionals in education, architecture, engineering and design it delivers high-quality CAD drawings, posters and technical documents with exceptional accuracy and efficiency.

The 24-inch Epson SureColor T3160M

The 24-inch SureColor T3160M also supports copy enlargements and reductions, as well as enhanced tracing and offers highlight detection for scanning annotated blueprints.

Built on Epson’s PrecisionCore technology and powered by UltraChrome XD2 pigment inks, the T3160M produces sharp lines, vibrant colours and durable prints that are resistant to water and smudging. Its space-saving design and flexible media handling make it ideal for educational offices and institutions requiring professional-grade wide-format output. 

Key features of the SureColor T3160M

• High-speed performance – produces A1 prints in as little as 34 seconds for fast turnaround 
• PrecisionCore print technology – delivers sharp detail and consistent output at up to 2400 × 1200 dpi 
• Durable pigment inks – UltraChrome XD2 inks provide water- and smudge-resistant prints for professional use 
• Wide-format capability – supports media up to 24 inches (610 mm) wide, including roll and cut-sheet paper 
• Integrated auto-cutter – ensures clean, precise finishing of prints 
• Flexible media handling – up to sheet feeder and roll-to-sheet switching for seamless workflow 
• Compact, space-saving design – suitable for desktops or floor-standing configurations in smaller workspaces 
• User-friendly interface – 4.3-inch colour touchscreen for intuitive operation 
• Connectivity and integration – supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, AirPrint, and CAD/GIS software workflows 
• Low running costs – energy-efficient operation with individual ink cartridges for cost control

EcoTank printer giveaway at ASPA 2026
To celebrate its Platinum Sponsorship and participation at ASPA, Epson will also host a giveaway of an EcoTank ET-4950 printer, offering one lucky attendee the opportunity to take home Epson’s premium, award-winning cartridge-free printing solution.

EcoTank ET-4950 printer

The EcoTank range is known for its ultra-low-cost printing, refillable ink tanks, and reduced environmental impact making it a popular choice for schools and home offices alike.

Event

ASPA National Summit 2026

Dates

Tuesday 24 March – Wednesday 25 March 2026
Show times
Tuesday 24 March – 8:45am to 5:00 pm
Wednesday 25 March – 7:30 am to 2:45 pm

Location

Gandel Hall, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra ACT

Summit delegates are invited to visit Epson during the event to explore the latest solutions designed to support modern education environments.

The race welcomed 30,000 fans over the weekend which saw António Félix da Costa win, and Jaguar TCS Racing secure a one-two finish  

 

Dubai, UAE,  March 22: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain to Madrid’s inaugural hosting of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.  

King Felipe VI’s presence highlighted the growing importance of sustainable motorsport and Spain’s role in embracing innovative, electric racing technologies. 

 

The event marked a historic milestone for a championship that is currently in its twelfth season, and which since its inception has had innovation embedded in its DNA. 

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “It was an honour for the FIA to welcome His Majesty King Felipe VI to the Circuito de Madrid-Jarama for the city’s inaugural ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race. 

“This landmark event reflects the growing global appeal of electric racing and underscores our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and cutting-edge motorsport. 

“Madrid has embraced Formula E with great enthusiasm, and hosting the championship here for the first time allows us to showcase the excitement of electric racing while promoting cleaner mobility solutions. 

 

“We are thrilled to bring fans from around the world to the Spanish capital and inspire the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts and innovators.” 

Jaguar TCS Racing secured a one-two finish in the race as Portugal’s Antonio Felix da Costa secured victory ahead of New Zealander Mitch Evans. 

Carmelo Sanz de Barros, President of the FIA Senate and President of the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE), said: “Bringing Formula E to Madrid for the first time is a historic moment for our city and for Spanish motorsport.

“The CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix showcases not only racing at the highest level but also the importance of sustainable mobility. We are proud to have welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI to experience this unique event, which celebrates innovation, excitement, and Spain’s commitment to a greener future in motorsport.” 

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship stands at the forefront of sustainable innovation in global sport, combining high-performance racing with a clear purpose: to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.

Since it began, the championship has served as a platform for cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, driving advancements in energy efficiency, battery development and urban mobility solutions.

Formula E not only brings world-class motorsport to fans but also demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, supporting the FIA’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while inspiring the next generation of mobility. 

The Championship will continue for Rounds 7 & 8 in Berlin from the 2^nd May 2026.

New Delhi, March 21 (BNP): Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Saturday inaugurated the International Conference on Carbon Markets, Prakriti 2026, and launched the Indian Carbon Market Portal, underscoring India’s commitment to advancing climate action alongside economic growth.

The two-day conference, organised by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is being held in the national capital as part of the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026.

The event brings together global experts, policymakers, industry leaders and researchers to deliberate on carbon markets and their role in supporting climate goals and green growth. The theme of this year’s conference is “Unlocking Carbon Finance for NDC Implementation through Global Partnerships and Digital Pathways.”

During the inaugural session, the Indian Carbon Market Portal (www.indiancarbonmarket.gov.in
) was launched by Manohar Lal, along with Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik and other dignitaries. The portal is designed as a central platform for implementing and administering the country’s carbon market.

Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister said India has demonstrated that climate responsibility and economic development can progress together. He highlighted initiatives such as the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), renewable energy expansion and energy efficiency programmes as key steps toward building a transparent and credible carbon market framework.

He noted that the country has already notified nine methodologies under the CCTS, with over 40 entities registering projects in sectors such as biogas, hydrogen and forestry. Additionally, greenhouse gas emission intensity targets have been set for nearly 490 entities across seven energy-intensive sectors.

Emphasising the economic potential of carbon markets, Lal urged businesses to view them not merely as compliance mechanisms but as opportunities for innovation, investment and entrepreneurship.

Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik highlighted three key pillars for robust carbon markets — credibility through digital monitoring, reporting and verification systems, capital mobilisation for clean technologies, and international collaboration under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

He said India’s progress in renewable energy and energy efficiency demonstrates that climate action and economic growth are complementary, adding that carbon markets can empower MSMEs and farmers while enabling transparent global cooperation.

The conference will feature discussions on global carbon markets under the Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism, compliance frameworks, digital technologies, carbon border policies and financing clean technologies.

Officials said Prakriti 2026 reflects India’s growing role as a global leader in climate action and its efforts to develop a transparent, inclusive and innovation-driven carbon market ecosystem.

Water has always been more than a natural resource. It is life, movement, and meaning. On World Water Day, observed every year on 22 March, the world reflects on the importance of water—not only for survival, but for balance, dignity, and harmony in human life.

Water is often symbolically linked with the feminine. It is nurturing, sustaining, and deeply life-giving. Like the feminine principle, water carries quiet strength. It flows gently, yet it shapes entire landscapes over time. It sustains life in silence, yet holds immense power within it.

This dual nature—calm and powerful, soft and unstoppable—makes water a powerful reflection of feminine energy. Rivers that nourish fields, rain that renews life, and oceans that connect continents all represent both care and strength in motion.

The connection becomes even more meaningful in the context of the theme “Water and Gender.” Across the world, women are often the primary managers of household water. They walk long distances, collect water, and ensure its use for families and communities. This daily responsibility reflects resilience, patience, and care—qualities often associated with both water and femininity.

Yet this also highlights an important truth: water inequality affects women and girls the most. When access is limited, it is they who carry the burden. When access improves, entire communities move toward dignity, education, and opportunity.

Water can also be forceful and unpredictable. Floods and storms remind us of its strength and ability to transform landscapes. In the same way, feminine strength is not limited to gentleness—it also carries the power to change, rebuild, and endure.

On World Water Day, this symbolism becomes a reminder of responsibility. Water must be protected, shared fairly, and valued not just as a resource, but as the foundation of life. Recognizing its connection to gender equality helps us understand a deeper truth: sustainability and justice go hand in hand.

Ultimately, water teaches balance. It shows that strength does not always mean force, and care does not mean weakness. In its flow, stillness, and power, water reflects life itself—and invites us to protect it with respect and awareness.