Category: News

Haridwar , June 18 : Poonam Bhagat has emphasized the crucial role of youth in shaping the future of Uttarakhand, stating that young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but the driving force behind change today.

Speaking on the importance of youth engagement, Bhagat said that Haridwar and Uttarakhand are facing several challenges, including employment generation, quality education, skill development, migration, and sustainable growth. According to her, the energy, creativity, and innovative thinking of young people can play a significant role in addressing these issues and building stronger communities.

She highlighted that when youth actively participate in social initiatives, sports, educational activities, awareness campaigns, and community development programs, they become stakeholders in the progress of their region. Their involvement not only accelerates local development but also fosters a culture of responsibility and positive social change.

Poonam Bhagat urged the youth of Haridwar to take a proactive role in addressing community concerns and contributing towards the development of society. She noted that informed, empowered, and socially conscious young citizens can help transform Haridwar into a model of growth, opportunity, and social progress.

She further stated that providing young people with the right opportunities, mentorship, and resources would enable them to contribute meaningfully to both district and state development. Encouraging youth participation in nation-building activities, she called upon them to use their talent and potential for the betterment of society.

Expressing confidence in the younger generation, Bhagat said that with the active participation of youth, Haridwar and Uttarakhand can move steadily towards greater prosperity, self-reliance, and sustainable development. 

MOMBASA, KENYA, June 18: At a side event this evening at the Our Ocean Conference, the governments of Madagascar and Zanzibar announced sweeping new national protections for sharks and rays, marking the latest milestone in a decade of conservation progress across East Africa.

Sharks and rays are experiencing one of the fastest extinction crises of any vertebrate group on Earth—more than 37 percent of species are now threatened with extinction, driven largely by overfishing and an international trade that, for decades, went largely unregulated. Over the last decade major gains in international management of these species have begun to change the trajectory for these species, and we’re now seeing countries implement these protections at a national and local level.

“Sharks are an essential part of healthy ocean ecosystems,” said Luke Warwick, Senior Director of WCS’s Threatened Marine Species program. “This rapidly accelerating global framework of laws, coupled to enforcement and local level conservation action gives us hope we can end the declines of the last half century, and start these ancient predators on the long road to recovery.”

Madagascar announced it will offer full national protection for 14 species of sharks and rays under the country’s Wild Fauna Decree, including the Critically Endangered oceanic whitetip shark, as well as whale sharks and iconic manta rays. Zanzibar also announced full protection for 34 species in its coastal waters, including hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, and the endemic Zanzibar guitarfish. 

“The actions taken by the Madagascar government to protect these species, among other positive actions, comes at a time when sharks and rays need conservation efforts more than ever,” said Ravaka Ranaivoson, Partnership and Program Development Director for WCS Madagascar. “This highlights Madagascar’s commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of its marine resources.”

As recently as a decade ago, the global trade in sharks and rays was largely unregulated, and these species were fast running out of time. Today, that trade has rules, those rules are being enforced, and governments around the world are writing them into national law via species protections and the inclusion of shark specific conservation measures in fisheries and protected area laws and designations. The announcements from Madagascar and Zanzibar are the latest proof that momentum, once built, continues to grow.

Today’s announcements build on past successes and three years of historic global progress. At CITES CoP20 in November 2025, countries adopted every shark and ray proposal on the table, listing more than 70 species and bringing 96 percent of the global shark fin trade and 70 percent of shark and ray meat trade under international regulation for the first time. In total, 180 species are now listed under CITES, with 33 carrying a full commercial trade ban.

“From global decisions to local action on the water, the scale and pace of progress in shark conservation is truly remarkable,” said John Mandelman, Executive Director, Shark Conservation Fund. “Yet threatened sharks and rays, and the habitats they depend on, still require the strongest protections. Together, these efforts are creating an essential pathway toward recovery.”

The announcements were made at a private reception entitled “Celebrating a Decade of Shark Conservation in East Africa: Profiles of Shark Champions,” hosted by Shark Conservation Fund in partnership with the governments of Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar, and supported by WCS.

 

New Delhi, June 18: India’s peak electricity demand has eased in recent days as the onset of monsoon rains across several regions has reduced the use of cooling appliances, particularly air conditioners, officials and industry data indicated.

The moderation in demand comes after a period of high summer consumption, when elevated temperatures had pushed electricity usage to record levels in multiple parts of the country. With rainfall improving weather conditions, residential and commercial cooling loads have declined, leading to a temporary easing of pressure on the power grid.

Officials said the seasonal transition has helped stabilise supply conditions, with lower demand during monsoon months typically allowing for better grid management and reduced peak load stress.

Power sector experts noted that while monsoon-related demand softening provides short-term relief, electricity consumption is expected to gradually stabilise again as industrial activity and agricultural power usage continue during the season.

They added that grid operators remain alert to regional fluctuations in demand, especially during periods of uneven rainfall distribution and humidity-driven consumption spikes.

The power system continues to be monitored closely to ensure uninterrupted supply, with authorities maintaining readiness to manage any sudden changes in demand patterns.

Three-day event will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates from 149 countries

Dubai, UAE, June 18: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, says the Federation’s Extraordinary General Assembly and Annual Conference in Macau next week has an important part to play in guiding the future of motorsport and mobility.

Hosted in partnership with the Automobile General Association Macao-China (AAMC) and Galaxy Entertainment Group, and held at the Galaxy International Convention Centre, the three-day event starting on Tuesday will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates across mobility and motorsport from 149 countries.

It offers opportunities for the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, to address key initiatives in regional sporting growth, road safety, sustainable mobility, and innovation in transport.

Macau is an iconic location for motorsport fans, playing host to the Macau Grand Prix at the Guia Circuit since 1954. Now, the event welcomes competitors across four FIA categories and is notorious for its demanding course, combining fast straights and tight corners.

Speaking ahead of his return to Macau, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “This conference provides a valuable opportunity to bring together our community and help shape the future of global motorsport and mobility. As we continue to grow participation, advance innovation and improve road safety worldwide, these discussions are more important than ever.

“I am delighted to be returning to Macau, a truly iconic location for motorsport fans and a fitting location for the FIA to host one of the most important weeks of our calendar. My thanks to our hosts, the AAMC, Chairman Chong Coc Veng, and President Roberto Carlos Osorio.”

Chong Coc Veng, Chairman of the AAMC, said: “We are honoured to welcome the FIA and our fellow Members from across the world back to Macau. The Annual Conference provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made together over the past year and shape the priorities that will drive our Federation forward. We look forward to welcoming delegates for what promises to be a productive few days.”

The conference will be attended by representatives from the 245 FIA Member Clubs who represent motorsport and mobility at a global scale. This structure forms the backbone of the federation’s governance and operations, with each full Member Club holding voting rights across the FIA’s elections and regulatory decisions.

Clubs are grouped into two primary categories, with some serving in both roles. Mobility Clubs provide mobility services and represent the interest of road users, with a focus on road safety, travel and tourism, consumer rights, and sustainable mobility.

National Sporting Authorities (ASNs) govern and develop motorsport at a national level, are responsible for sporting events, issuing licenses, and engagement across regulations.

 

 

New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has earmarked ₹18,907 crore for the construction of 26,474 kilometres of rural roads during the financial year 2026–27, aimed at improving connectivity and strengthening rural infrastructure across the country.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

The allocation is expected to support continued expansion of all-weather road networks in rural and remote areas, facilitating better access to markets, healthcare, education, and essential public services for rural populations.

Officials said the initiative will play a key role in enhancing last-mile connectivity and supporting inclusive development by linking villages with nearby towns and economic centres. The programme is also expected to generate employment opportunities in construction and allied sectors.

The rural road development programme has been a key focus area of the government’s infrastructure push, with emphasis on improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activity in rural regions.

Experts note that improved rural road infrastructure is likely to have a multiplier effect on agricultural supply chains, rural trade, and overall socio-economic development.

The construction targets for FY27 continue the government’s broader effort to expand and upgrade rural connectivity across states and union territories.

New Delhi, June 18: The total area sown under India’s ongoing kharif season has crossed 84 lakh hectares so far, indicating steady progress in early sowing operations across key agricultural regions of the country.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

According to preliminary agricultural data, sowing activity has picked up momentum with the onset of the monsoon season, supporting timely cultivation of major kharif crops. Farmers across several states have begun planting operations, aided by improving rainfall conditions in many regions.

Officials said the early progress in sowing is an important indicator of the overall agricultural outlook for the season, as kharif crops depend heavily on monsoon rainfall patterns and distribution.

The kharif season typically includes major crops such as rice, maize, cotton, pulses, and oilseeds, which form a significant part of India’s agricultural output and rural economy.

Agricultural experts note that consistent rainfall distribution in the coming weeks will be crucial for sustaining sowing momentum and ensuring healthy crop development across different states.

The data reflects initial progress in the current season, with further updates expected as sowing activity continues across the country.

New Delhi, June 17 (UDN): India is witnessing an alarming rise in digital fraud, with the rate of suspected online fraud attempts reported to be nearly twice the global average, according to a recent report by TransUnion. The findings have raised concerns over the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and the increasing vulnerability of digital transactions.

Representational image

The report highlights that as digital adoption continues to expand rapidly across sectors such as banking, e-commerce, financial services, and telecommunications, fraudsters are also leveraging advanced technologies and social engineering techniques to target consumers and businesses.

Experts attribute the surge in digital fraud to the widespread use of online platforms, increased digital payments, and the growing volume of personal data shared through internet-based services. Common forms of fraud include phishing attacks, identity theft, account takeovers, fake investment schemes, and financial scams conducted through social media and messaging applications.

The report underscores the need for stronger cybersecurity measures, robust identity verification systems, and greater public awareness to counter emerging digital threats. Industry experts have advised users to exercise caution while sharing personal information online, verify suspicious communications, and adopt multi-factor authentication to safeguard their accounts.

The findings come at a time when India is experiencing unprecedented growth in digital transactions and internet usage, making cybersecurity a critical component of the country’s digital transformation journey. Stakeholders have called for closer collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, technology companies, and consumers to strengthen fraud prevention mechanisms and enhance digital trust.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the report serves as a reminder of the importance of digital vigilance and the need for continuous efforts to protect users in an increasingly connected world.

June 17: Swaranjali Delhi is proud to announce “Colours of India 2026”, a grand cultural extravaganza showcasing the vibrant diversity of Indian classical music, dance, and folk traditions. The event will be held on 13 August 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, opposite the LIC Office.

The festival aims to bring together artists from different parts of India, creating a platform that celebrates the country’s rich artistic legacy while fostering cultural unity and harmony.

The evening will commence with an energetic group dance presentation by Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair, followed by a distinguished Classical Vocal Recital by Pt. Bhutnath De of Jharkhand, accompanied on tabla by Pt. Susamoy Mishra. Audiences will also witness a captivating Solo Sitar Recital by Vidwan Subrata De, accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra.

The program will further feature performances by Daksh Akademi, Port Blair, an elegant Bharatanatyam recital by Ms. Rajasi Wagh from Pune, and a vocal presentation by Mrs. Vineet Talukdar of Muktadhara, Port Blair.

A major highlight of the evening will be the concluding performances by Hakimpara Nritya Malancha, Siliguri, under the guidance of Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki. The group will present a series of classical and devotional performances including Ganapati Shlokam, Saraswati Shlokam, Durga Kirtanam, Shiva Kirtanam, and Kathak recitals by talented young artistes.

The grand finale, themed “Colours of India,” will take the audience on a cultural journey across the nation through vibrant folk dance traditions representing Bengal, Assam (Bihu), Nepal, Odisha (Sambalpuri), Tripura, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kashmir, Gujarat, and Punjab. The evening will culminate with a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram by the Hakimpara Nritya Malancha ensemble.

“Colours of India 2026” seeks to celebrate India’s cultural plurality and strengthen bonds of peace, unity, and mutual appreciation through the universal language of art and music.

The organizers extend a warm invitation to art enthusiasts, cultural patrons, tourists, students, and residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to be a part of this memorable celebration.

Program Schedule

• Opening Group Dance – Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair
• Classical Vocal Recital – Pt. Bhutnath De (Jharkhand), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
• Solo Sitar Recital – Vidwan Subrata De (Delhi), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
• Group Dance Presentation – Daksh Akademi, Port Blair
• Bharatanatyam Recital – Ms. Rajasi Wagh, Pune
• Vocal Recital – Mrs. Vineet Talukdar, Muktadhara, Port Blair

Concluding Segment by Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri

The troupe will present a series of classical and devotional performances:

• Ganapati Shlokam – Hrishita Das, Doli Mahanta, Kasturi Das Barman, Prakriti Thapa & Shrestha Sarkar
• Kathak Solo – Avipsha Adhikari
• Saraswati Shlokam – Doli Mahanta
• Durga Kirtanam – Shrestha Sarkar
• Shiva Kirtanam – Kasturi Das Barman
• Avata Shyam – Prakriti Thapa
• Shiva Kirtanam – Hrishita Das
• Kathak Presentation – Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki

Grand Finale: Colours of India

A vibrant celebration of India’s diverse folk traditions featuring:

• Bangla Folk Dance – Doli Mahanta, Shrestha Sarkar & Avipsha Adhikari
• Bihu (Assam) – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari & Priti Karmakar
• Nepali Folk Dance – Prakriti Thapa
• Sambalpuri Folk Dance (Odisha) – Hrishita Das & Kasturi Das Barman
• Tripura Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
• Rajasthani Folk Dance – Shrestha Sarkar & Prakriti Thapa
• Marathi Folk Dance – Kasturi Das Barman, Hrishita Das & Doli Mahanta
• Kashmiri Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
• Gujarati Folk Dance – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari & Priti Karmakar
• Punjabi Folk Dance – Hrishita Das, Kasturi Das Barman, Doli Mahanta & Shrestha Sarkar
• Vande Mataram – Grand Finale Presentation by Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri

This concluding segment promises to showcase the rich cultural tapestry of India through music, movement, and tradition.

Event Details

Event: Colours of India 2026
Organizer: Swaranjali Delhi
Date: 13 August 2026
Time: 5:00 PM onwards
Venue: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 744103

RSVP

9910300319 | 9933211868 | 9818300319 | 7695021548

Website: www.swaranjali.org
Website: www.nrityamalancha.com

Acknowledgements

The organizers gratefully acknowledge the support of Mr. & Mrs. Ratna Wagh (ABSS Pune), Shri Mridul Nath (RMS Audio Hyderabad), Dhwani Foundation Delhi, Shri Debraj Das (Jamshedpur), Shri Sanjit Debnath (Port Blair), RepairnFix Faridabad, Daksh Dance Akademi, Vikash Akademi, and Muktadhara.

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions, Bhubaneswar

Location – https://maps.google.com/maps?vet=10CAAQoqAOahcKEwjA94T4z42VAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQEg..i&sca_esv=cad0c82d9e7a6f03&pvq=Cg0vZy8xMWM2N3JfcTV2&fvr=1&cs=0&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=in&sa=X&ftid=0x308895a078ef13fb:0xb0c2df4383f5c577

June 17: In Odisha’s rich cultural calendar, Basumati Snana stands out as a deeply symbolic and spiritually grounded ritual that concludes the vibrant Raja Parba festival. It is not merely a ceremonial tradition, but a poetic expression of how an agrarian society once understood the Earth—as a living, breathing mother who deserves rest, respect, and renewal.

Observed on the fourth day of Raja, Basumati Snana marks the ceremonial “bathing” of Basumati (Mother Earth), signalling the end of her symbolic rest period and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.

When the Earth Rests Like a Mother

Raja Parba, celebrated across Odisha, is unique in its philosophy: during these three days, the Earth is believed to undergo her symbolic menstrual cycle. In respect of this natural process, all farming activities—ploughing, digging, tilling—are traditionally paused.

This cultural pause is not symbolic alone; it reflects an ancient ecological wisdom. The soil is allowed to rest, mirroring the idea that fertility is sustained not through constant extraction, but through renewal and care.

Basumati Snana becomes the moment of gentle return—when the Earth is ritually cleansed and awakened for the next cycle of cultivation.

The Silapua: Where Earth Becomes Divine

At the heart of this ritual lies the silapua, a traditional stone grinding slab found in many Odia households. During Basumati Snana, this everyday object is transformed into a sacred representation of Bhudevi.

Women of the household perform the ritual with devotion, bathing the silapua with turmeric water—a substance deeply associated with purity and healing in Indian tradition. It is then anointed with sandalwood paste, decorated with vermilion, and adorned with fresh flowers and seasonal offerings.

What emerges is a striking transformation: an ordinary stone becomes a living symbol of the Earth herself—nourished, honoured, and worshipped.

A Ritual Written in Colour, Fragrance, and Faith

The ritual is not performed in silence—it is accompanied by devotion, songs, and the fragrance of turmeric and flowers. Each element carries meaning:

• Turmeric water signifies purification and vitality
• Sandalwood paste represents calmness and sanctity
• Flowers and fruits symbolise abundance and gratitude
• Vermilion marks auspiciousness and life force

Together, they create a sensory offering to Mother Earth, blending ecology with spirituality.

An Ancient Environmental Philosophy

What makes Basumati Snana extraordinary is its ecological depth. Long before modern environmental frameworks, this tradition encoded a powerful idea: the Earth must rest to remain fertile.

The pause in agricultural activity during Raja mirrors sustainable land ethics. The ritual cleansing of the silapua represents the renewal of life, while the return to farming reflects a respectful re-engagement with nature.

In essence, Basumati Snana is an early form of environmental consciousness—where spirituality and sustainability are inseparable.

Honouring Womanhood and Natural Cycles

Another distinctive dimension of Raja Parba and Basumati Snana is its respectful alignment with feminine biology. The Earth’s symbolic cycle is celebrated rather than hidden, drawing a powerful parallel with womanhood and fertility.

This cultural perspective transforms what is often socially stigmatised into a moment of reverence, dignity, and celebration of life itself.

A Living Heritage for Modern Times

In an era marked by ecological stress and fading cultural memory, Basumati Snana offers more than tradition—it offers a philosophy.

It reminds us that:

• The Earth is not an object of extraction but a living presence
• Rest is essential for regeneration
• Human life is deeply interwoven with natural cycles

As turmeric water is poured and the silapua is adorned, Odisha’s ancient wisdom quietly speaks to the present: care for the Earth is not optional—it is sacred duty.