Category Archives: News

Nepal Inaugurates First Tunnel Road to Boost Connectivity

Kathmandu, July 27: Nepal has inaugurated its first tunnel road, marking a landmark achievement in the country’s infrastructure development and a major step towards modernising its transport network.

The tunnel road is expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety, and provide a faster and more reliable alternative to the existing route. It is also designed to ease traffic congestion and ensure smoother movement of passengers and goods, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

The project is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, facilitate trade and tourism, and improve access between key urban centres. Officials said the tunnel will enhance transport efficiency and contribute to the country’s economic growth by supporting the movement of people and commercial activities.

The inauguration underscores Nepal’s commitment to developing modern transport infrastructure and expanding connectivity through advanced engineering projects. The tunnel is expected to play a key role in improving road travel while supporting the country’s long-term development objectives.

Gujarat Creates History with Nine Athletes in India’s 2026 Asian Games Contingent

Gujarat, July 27: Nine athletes from Gujarat are set to represent India at the 2026 Asian Games, marking the state’s biggest-ever contribution to the country’s contingent for the prestigious continental sporting event.

The achievement reflects the rising prominence of Gujarat’s athletes on the national and international sports stage. The selection is also a testament to the consistent efforts of players, coaches, and sports organisations in developing competitive talent across the state.

The athletes will compete in various disciplines and aim to make the country proud with their performances at the upcoming Asian Games.

The milestone further strengthens Gujarat’s position as an emerging hub for sports excellence and highlights the state’s growing role in India’s international sporting achievements.

Rajasthan’s Widest Mukundra Tunnel Opens for Traffic on Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Jaipur, July 27: Traffic movement through Rajasthan’s widest Mukundra Tunnel on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway officially began on Monday, marking a major milestone in the state’s road infrastructure development.

The 4.9-kilometre twin-tube tunnel has initially been opened for cars, emergency vehicles and trial operations. Located near Kota, the tunnel is expected to improve connectivity, ease traffic movement and reduce travel difficulties along the expressway corridor.

The Mukundra Tunnel is designed to provide smoother and safer passage through the hilly terrain of the Mukundra region. Its opening is expected to enhance travel efficiency between Delhi and Mumbai while supporting faster movement of passengers and goods.

Authorities said further operational measures will be implemented as traffic movement increases, ensuring safe and seamless travel through the newly opened infrastructure facility.

Sooryavanshi Shines with Historic 81-Run Knock

Harare, July 27: Teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered a historic performance on the cricket field, playing a stunning 81-run knock off just 49 balls to help India secure a commanding victory over Zimbabwe in the third T20I.

The young opener showcased remarkable composure and aggressive stroke play, taking on the Zimbabwe bowling attack with confidence and providing India with a strong foundation. His explosive innings played a crucial role in India’s total of 192/5 and highlighted his growing stature on the international stage.

Sooryavanshi’s match-defining performance earned him the Man of the Series award, marking a memorable milestone in his young career. The teenager described the achievement as a dream come true and credited his family, coaches and teammates for their support and guidance.

His outstanding display, combined with Mayank Yadav’s impressive bowling spell, helped India complete a 3-0 T20I series sweep over Zimbabwe. The victory also showcased the emergence of India’s next generation of cricketing talent.

Mirabai Chanu Scripts History with Third Straight Commonwealth Games Gold

Glasgow, July 27: Indian weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu created history by winning her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal, becoming one of the country’s most decorated athletes at the event.

Chanu delivered a dominant performance to clinch the top podium finish and set a new Games record, reaffirming her status as one of the world’s leading weightlifters. The victory marked her third successive Commonwealth Games title, extending a remarkable run of success on the international stage.

Following her historic triumph, Chanu credited her family and coach for their unwavering support and guidance throughout her journey. She said their encouragement and belief played a crucial role in helping her overcome challenges and achieve another career milestone.

The latest gold adds to Chanu’s illustrious list of achievements and further strengthens India’s medal tally at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Andhra Pradesh Ranks Second Nationwide in Mangrove Restoration Under MISHTI

Amaravati, July 27: Andhra Pradesh has secured the second position among Indian states in mangrove restoration under the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI), reflecting its continued focus on coastal ecosystem conservation and climate resilience.

The recognition follows the state’s efforts to expand mangrove cover through large-scale plantation and restoration activities across its coastal districts. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening natural coastal protection, conserving biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of communities dependent on coastal ecosystems.

The MISHTI scheme promotes the restoration and sustainable management of mangrove forests through coordinated efforts between the Centre and states. Andhra Pradesh’s performance underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and the adoption of nature-based solutions to address the impacts of climate change.

The state government is expected to continue its mangrove conservation initiatives with a focus on expanding green cover, encouraging community participation and ensuring the long-term protection of coastal habitats.

President Murmu Takes Green Initiative to Romania, Plants Tree Under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’

July 25: President Droupadi Murmu planted a tree in Romania as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The President’s participation in the campaign reflected India’s commitment to promoting ecological awareness and encouraging people to protect nature in honour of their mothers.

During the tree plantation programme, President Murmu emphasised the significance of collective efforts towards preserving the environment and creating a greener future for coming generations.

The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, launched to inspire citizens to plant trees as a tribute to their mothers, has encouraged people across India and abroad to participate in environmental protection efforts.

The tree plantation event in Romania also showcased the shared commitment of India and its international partners towards addressing environmental challenges and strengthening the message of sustainability.

India Celebrates Jhandu Kumar’s Para Powerlifting Success at CWG 2026

New Delhi, July 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar for his remarkable performance at the Commonwealth Games 2026, praising his determination and calling his bronze medal-winning effort a “spectacular performance”.

PM Modi highlighted Jhandu Kumar’s dedication, discipline and perseverance, saying that the achievement reflects the courage and commitment of India’s para-athletes who continue to excel on the international stage.

The bronze medal win has added another proud moment to India’s Commonwealth Games campaign and showcased the growing potential of the country’s para-sports community.

Appreciating the athlete’s success, the Prime Minister said such achievements inspire countless young sportspersons to pursue their dreams and contribute to India’s sporting excellence.

Jhandu Kumar’s performance has drawn appreciation from the sporting fraternity, with fans and officials celebrating his achievement as a symbol of hard work, resilience and the spirit of never giving up.

Education Key to Transformation, Says President Murmu

July 25: President Droupadi Murmu said education has been the most transformative force in her life, as she received an Honorary Doctorate from the Bucharest University of Economic Studies during her visit to Romania.

 Pic Credit: https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn

Accepting the prestigious honour, President Murmu described it as a reflection of the deep and enduring friendship between the people of India and Romania. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the important role of education in shaping individuals, societies and nations.

The President encouraged the Bucharest University of Economic Studies and other Romanian educational institutions to further strengthen academic cooperation with India through joint research programmes, faculty exchanges and student mobility initiatives.

She emphasised that greater collaboration in the field of education can build stronger connections between the two countries and create new opportunities for young learners, researchers and academic communities.

President Murmu’s remarks highlighted the shared commitment of India and Romania towards expanding knowledge partnerships and promoting greater understanding through education.

Suna Besha: Puri’s Grand Golden Celebration of Lord Jagannath’s Divine Majesty

The holy city of Puri is preparing to witness one of the most awe-inspiring and spiritually significant moments of the annual Rath Yatra — the Suna Besha, a centuries-old tradition where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra are adorned in magnificent gold ornaments on their chariots.

Also known as Raja Besha or Rajarajeshwara Besha, the grand ritual is observed on Bahuda Ekadashi, the 11th day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha, following the return of the deities from the Gundicha Temple. On this sacred occasion, the three deities appear in a resplendent golden attire, creating a divine spectacle that attracts devotees from across the country and beyond.

The sight of the deities shining in gold, seated on their majestic chariots near the Lion’s Gate (Singhadwara) of the Jagannath Temple, is considered one of the most memorable experiences of the Rath Yatra festival.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The origin of Suna Besha dates back to the 15th century during the reign of Odisha’s King Kapilendra Deva in 1460 AD. According to tradition, after returning victorious from military campaigns in southern India, the king offered a vast treasure of gold and precious gems to Lord Jagannath as a mark of devotion.

The donated wealth was used to create elaborate ornaments for the deities, and the practice of adorning Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra with these golden decorations during Rath Yatra became an enduring tradition.

Over the centuries, Suna Besha has remained a symbol of Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage, devotion and artistic excellence.

A Divine Display of Gold Craftsmanship

The golden ornaments used during Suna Besha are preserved in the temple treasury, known as the Bhitara Bhandara. With elaborate security arrangements, the ornaments are brought out and handed over to temple servitors, who carefully decorate the deities on their respective chariots.

Lord Jagannath is adorned with a golden Chakra (wheel), along with a silver Sankha (conch), while Lord Balabhadra is decorated with a golden plough and mace, representing their divine attributes.

The magnificent ornaments include:

• Suna Mukuta – Golden crown
• Suna Hasta – Golden hands
• Suna Payar – Golden feet
• Suna Chakra – Golden wheel
• Suna Gada – Golden mace
• Suna Padma – Golden lotus
• Suna Kundal – Golden earrings
• Mayur Chandrika – Golden peacock feather ornament
• Suna Mala – Intricately designed gold necklaces

Each ornament carries deep religious meaning and reflects the exceptional craftsmanship passed down through generations.

One of the Most Revered Forms of the Deities

Among the 32 traditional forms or Beshas of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, Suna Besha holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. The golden attire represents the divine royalty of the deities and their status as the supreme rulers of the universe.

Suna Besha is celebrated five times a year — four times inside the temple on the Ratna Singhasana and once during Rath Yatra when the deities appear on their chariots for public darshan.

A Moment of Faith and Devotion

For devotees, Suna Besha is more than a religious ceremony; it is an emotional and spiritual experience. Thousands gather in Puri to catch a glimpse of the golden form of the deities, believing that the sacred darshan brings blessings, peace and spiritual fulfilment.

As the golden ornaments illuminate the chariots and devotional chants echo through the streets of Puri, Suna Besha continues to stand as a magnificent celebration of faith, tradition and Odisha’s timeless cultural legacy.