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Minister for Health, Education, and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, Reviews SAMAGRA Shiksha Progress in Jammu and Kashmir

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Minister for Health, Education, and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, Reviews SAMAGRA Shiksha Progress in Jammu and Kashmir

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the progress of various interventions under SAMAGRA Shiksha and to formulate the upcoming work plan for the initiative across Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by several MLAs from various constituencies, Additional Chief Secretary of the School Education Department (SED), Special Secretary of SED, Director of School Education Kashmir/Jammu, Project Director of Samagra Shiksha, CEOs, and other concerned officers.

Inclusive and Transparent Policy Implementation Emphasized

During the meeting, Minister Sakeena Itoo stressed the importance of a more inclusive and transparent approach in policy implementation. She urged the officers to involve elected representatives (MLAs) in the process of formulating work plans for their respective constituencies. This, she emphasized, would ensure that need-based works are initiated effectively.

“Public representatives play a crucial role in identifying grassroots issues. The inclusion of MLAs in policy formulation will lead to more practical and impactful decisions, ensuring holistic development of the education sector,” Sakeena Itoo said.

The Minister also highlighted that coordination between public representatives and the project agency would help avoid the duplication of works and ensure a more streamlined approach to policy execution.

Addressing Educational Gaps

Sakeena Itoo also took the opportunity to assess the progress of educational initiatives under SAMAGRA Shiksha. She noted that the interventions are crucial for bridging infrastructure gaps, addressing teacher shortages, and enhancing digital learning facilities, particularly in rural and remote areas.

She directed the concerned officers to expedite the completion of ongoing projects while enhancing accountability mechanisms to improve the execution of schemes.

Focus on Equity and Accessibility

The Minister emphasized the importance of equity and accessibility in education, urging the officers to prioritize the needs of underprivileged students and marginalized communities. This focus will help bridge the educational divide in the region.

Project Director Presentation

During the meeting, the Project Director of Samagra Shiksha provided a detailed presentation covering various aspects and interventions of the Samagra Shiksha program, showcasing the efforts being made to strengthen the education system in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Applauds NCC Cadets’ Achievements at Republic Day Parade

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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Applauds NCC Cadets’ Achievements at Republic Day Parade

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today praised the National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh for their exceptional representation during the 2025 Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Addressing the cadets at an interaction session, he lauded their dedication and spirit that they displayed while participating in the national event.

“This is not a small achievement,” the Chief Minister remarked, highlighting the extraordinary feat of a Jammu and Kashmir girl cadet who commanded the all-women NCC contingent during the parade. “The images of her leading the contingent resonated globally, showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to discipline and unity,” he added.

Featured Section – Cultural Performance:
The Chief Minister also expressed admiration for the cadets’ cultural performance, which won third place at a national competition. “This achievement speaks volumes about your hard work and unity. Your cultural presentation, infused with the rich traditions of our land, captured the hearts of many and brought honor to J&K,” he stated.

Personal Reflection:
Omar Abdullah shared personal anecdotes from his school days as an NCC cadet, emphasizing how the program shaped his leadership skills. “The crisp commands, camaraderie, and the spirit of teamwork have stayed with me throughout my life,” he said.

Important Message to Cadets:
“The NCC is more than a program; it is a crucible that forges character. Your commitment to the NCC’s values of service and discipline is truly commendable,” the Chief Minister encouraged.

Call to Action:
The Chief Minister also urged the cadets to be role models in their communities, emphasizing their power to combat social challenges such as drug abuse.

Sidebar:
Key Figures:

  • Minister for Youth Services & Sports: Satish Sharma
  • Advisor to the Chief Minister: Nasir Aslam Wani
  • Additional Chief Secretary to the CM: Dheeraj Gupta
  • Major General Anupinder Bevli (NCC Directorate Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh)

Quote of the Day:
“These friendships will be your support system in times of challenge, the people who will stand by you when life tests your strength.” – CM Omar Abdullah

Ayodhya Sees Over 15 Lakh Devotees on Basant Panchami as Kumbh Mela Rush Intensifies

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Ayodhya Sees Over 15 Lakh Devotees on Basant Panchami as Kumbh Mela Rush Intensifies

The holy city of Ayodhya saw an extraordinary influx of devotees on Basant Panchami, with official estimates placing the crowd at a staggering 15 lakh. As the Kumbh Mela continues until February 28, authorities expect the influx to remain steady, with large numbers of pilgrims arriving daily to partake in the religious festivities.

Continuous Stream of Pilgrims and Tightened Security

The festival celebrations, which began with Basant Panchami on Sunday, will extend into Monday. A continuous stream of devotees is expected to arrive to take the sacred dip in the Saryu River, offer prayers at the revered Hanumangarhi temple, and visit the iconic Ram Temple.

In addition to the festival crowd, a steady flow of pilgrims returning from the Prayagraj Kumbh has further intensified the congregation. With such a massive turnout, local authorities have ramped up security and implemented traffic diversions to ensure smooth movement and prevent overcrowding.

Inspection of Arrangements by Officials

To assess the situation, Commissioner Gaurav Dayal and IG Praveen Kumar conducted an on-site inspection of the Janmabhoomi Path and the Pilgrim Facilitation Center near the Ram Temple. During their visit, they reviewed the arrangements to manage the massive footfall of devotees, including the entry systems at key religious spots.

Regulated Temple Entry and Extended Visiting Hours

With the large number of visitors, temple authorities have introduced a regulated entry system at the Ram Temple, particularly for the sanctum sanctorum, which has limited capacity. To manage the crowd, authorities have set up seven queue lines and extended the temple’s visiting hours. To accommodate even more devotees, the duration of the daily aarti has been shortened.

Assurance of Uninterrupted Devotee Flow

Commissioner Dayal reassured the public that every effort is being made to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted flow of devotees, allowing them to get a glimpse of Ram Lalla and continue their spiritual journey without delays. Temple authorities estimate that around 3.5 lakh devotees are visiting the temple each day, with the numbers expected to increase in the coming weeks.

As the Kumbh Mela and the ongoing religious festivities continue, Ayodhya remains a focal point of spiritual fervor and devotion, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure a seamless experience for the millions of pilgrims arriving to celebrate and seek blessings.

India Clinches Second Successive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Title with Dominant Nine-Wicket Victory Over South Africa

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India Clinches Second Successive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Title with Dominant Nine-Wicket Victory Over South Africa

India’s young stars produced a masterclass in dominance, cruising to a nine-wicket victory over South Africa to win a second successive U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup title. The triumph not only secured the championship but also capped an unbeaten run for the defending champions, who outclassed every team en route to glory.

With 52 balls to spare, India further underlined the strength of their youth structure, clinching the trophy in convincing style. All-rounder Gongadi Trisha was the standout performer, picking up 3/15 with the ball and contributing an unbeaten 44 off 33 balls in India’s chase.

India’s Clinical Bowling Stuns South Africa

South Africa, opting to bowl first, were immediately put on the back foot by India’s all-round dominance. India’s three-pronged spin attack proved too much for South Africa’s batting lineup, which was bowled out for just 82 runs in 17.5 overs.

Aayushi Shukla was the star with the ball, returning 2/9 from her four overs, while Trisha supported her efforts with 2 wickets of her own. Parunika, another left-arm spinner, also impressed with 2/6, dismissing opener Simone Lourens for a duck as South Africa’s innings unravelled early.

Despite some resistance from Mieke van Voorst (23) and Fay Cowling (15), the South African batters failed to gain any momentum. India’s bowlers maintained the pressure, with Shabnam Shakil (1/7) also contributing to the dismantling of the South African middle order.

By the halfway mark, South Africa were in deep trouble at 33/3, and the pressure mounted further as India’s bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals. Trisha’s stumping of van Voorst and the dismissal of captain Kayla Reyneke sealed South Africa’s fate, and they were all out by the final delivery.

Trisha Leads India’s Charge in Chase

In response, India’s chase was clinical. Trisha, once again the aggressor, anchored the chase with a well-crafted knock, striking eight boundaries in her 33-ball innings. Alongside her, Kamalini G (8) and Sanika Chalke (26*) provided solid contributions, ensuring India reached their target of 83 in just 14.4 overs.

Sanika sealed the victory with a powerful pull shot to the square-leg boundary, setting off wild celebrations among her teammates.

“I’ve dreamt of this moment for the past two years, and I can’t believe I hit the winning runs — it’s truly surreal. My teammates’ support made all the difference, and this moment is one I’ll cherish forever,” said Sanika, her voice brimming with excitement after the match.

India’s Stellar Performances Throughout the Tournament

India’s victory in the final marked the culmination of a flawless campaign. The team won all their group-stage matches against West Indies, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, before progressing to the Super Six stage where they defeated Bangladesh and Scotland. In the semi-final, India showcased their might with a commanding win over England to seal their spot in the final.

At the individual level, Trisha was India’s top-scorer in the tournament, accumulating 309 runs at an average of 77.25 and a strike rate of over 147. She also excelled with the ball, taking 7 wickets in total. Meanwhile, Vaishnavi emerged as the tournament’s top wicket-taker with 17 wickets at an excellent economy rate of 4.35.

BCCI’s Reward for the Champions

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a cash reward of Rs 5 crore for the Indian U-19 Women’s team and their support staff following their historic title win. The BCCI’s top office-bearers lauded the achievement, praising the team for their remarkable consistency and dominance throughout the tournament.

Brief Scores:

  • India: 83/1 in 14.4 overs (Gongadi Trisha 44*, Sanika Chalke 26*; South Africa’s best: Kayla Reyneke 1/15)
  • South Africa: 82 all out in 17.5 overs (Mieke van Voorst 23; Aayushi Shukla 2/9, Gongadi Trisha 3/15, Parunika 2/6)

Abhishek Sharma Smashes Record with 135 to Power India to Crushing 150-Run Victory over England in Fifth T20I

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Abhishek Sharma Smashes Record with 135 to Power India to Crushing 150-Run Victory over England in Fifth T20I

Abhishek Sharma produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting as he blasted 135 off just 54 balls, propelling India to a commanding 247/9 against England in the fifth T20I at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. His knock not only set a new benchmark for Indian T20I batsmen but also ensured a resounding 150-run victory, sealing the series 4-1 for the hosts.

Sharma’s Record-Breaking Knock: A Masterclass in T20 Power-Hitting

Abhishek’s innings is now etched in history as the highest score by an Indian in T20Is, surpassing Shubman Gill’s 126* against New Zealand in 2023. The 24-year-old left-hander also broke Rohit Sharma’s record for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a T20I innings, finishing with an astonishing 13 sixes. His century, achieved in just 37 balls, is the second-fastest by an Indian in T20I cricket, just behind Rohit’s 35-ball mark.

Abhishek’s carnage against the England bowlers was unstoppable. He dismantled pacers and spinners alike, striking with precision on the off-side and displaying superb power with sixes over long-off, square leg, and mid-wicket. His 54-ball blitz featured seven fours, helping India set their highest-ever T20I total against England, bettering their previous best of 224/2 in 2021.

England Crumble in Response: India’s Bowlers Fire

While India’s batting was a sight to behold, England’s chase never got off the ground. Phil Salt gave England some hope with a rapid 55 off 23 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. However, once Salt fell, the rest of the batting lineup collapsed in spectacular fashion.

The England top order completely faltered as Ben Duckett (0), Jos Buttler (7), Harry Brook (2), and Liam Livingstone (9) crumbled under pressure, managing a combined total of just 18 runs. England was bowled out for a paltry 97 in just 10.3 overs, marking their second-lowest total in T20I history.

Abhishek, not content with his batting exploits, returned to haunt England with the ball, taking 2/3 in his only over, dismissing Brydon Carse (3) and Jamie Overton (1) to further exacerbate the visitors’ woes. Mohammed Shami was the pick of the bowlers with 3/25, while Shivam Dube (2/11), Varun Chakravarthy (2/25), and Ravi Bishnoi (1/9) also played their parts in dismantling England.

India’s Dominance: A Comprehensive Performance

With Abhishek’s monumental innings leading the charge, India posted a formidable total. The 115-run partnership for the second wicket between Abhishek and Tilak Varma (24) came off just 43 balls, while Shivam Dube (30) provided additional impetus with a brisk 37-run stand off just 18 balls.

India’s opening pair of Sanju Samson (16) and Suryakumar Yadav (2) had brief moments of success, with Samson smashing two sixes off Jofra Archer in the first over, but both were dismissed cheaply. Samson fell to a short ball from Mark Wood, while Suryakumar’s struggles continued as he was dismissed after top-edging a shot to wicketkeeper Phil Salt.

A Series to Remember for India

This crushing 150-run victory is India’s second-largest margin of victory in T20Is, trailing only their 168-run demolition of New Zealand in 2023. Abhishek Sharma’s heroics will undoubtedly be the highlight of the series, as India completed a comprehensive 4-1 series win over England.

Brief Scores:

  • India: 247/9 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 135, Shivam Dube 30, Tilak Varma 24; Brydon Carse 3/38, Mark Wood 2/32)
  • England: 97 all out in 10.3 overs (Phil Salt 55; Mohammed Shami 3/25, Shivam Dube 2/11, Varun Chakravarthy 2/25, Abhishek Sharma 2/3)

Rajnath Singh Criticizes AAP, Urges BJP’s Turn in Delhi, Slams Kejriwal and Congress

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Rajnath Singh Criticizes AAP, Urges BJP’s Turn in Delhi, Slams Kejriwal and Congress

In a series of election rallies across Delhi on Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took strong jabs at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, accusing them of refusing central assistance due to fears that the credit would go to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. Singh also slammed both the AAP and Congress, urging voters to give the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a chance to govern the national capital.

AAP’s Fear of Credit: Rajnath Singh’s Allegation

Addressing three rallies in Rajendra Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, and Chandni Chowk, Singh alleged that the Delhi government, led by Arvind Kejriwal, rejected the central government’s aid to avoid giving credit to the Modi administration. He claimed that while India’s economy had significantly grown under the BJP-led government, Delhi had not benefited from this progress.

“When India is developing under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, why should Delhi be left behind? The Delhi government does not take the Centre’s help because the chief minister is afraid that Modi ji will get the credit,” Singh stated, calling out Kejriwal for prioritizing political interests over the city’s development.

BJP’s Vision for Delhi’s Development

The Defence Minister reminded the audience that Delhi had been governed by either Congress or AAP for the past 26 years, and now it was time for the BJP to serve the city. He argued that while India rose from the 11th largest economy in 2014 to the 5th largest today, Delhi remained stagnant due to the local government’s reluctance to collaborate with the Centre.

“The BJP has not had an opportunity to serve Delhi in a long time. Delhi did not get the development it deserves,” he added.

BJP vs AAP-Congress: Alleged Friendly Fight

Singh further took aim at the AAP and Congress, alleging that the two parties were essentially the same. “Congress and AAP are having a friendly fight,” he remarked, accusing them of forming the INDIA alliance before Congress decided to break away and fight elections alone.

He also accused Kejriwal of going against the anti-corruption movement’s founder, Anna Hazare, by forming a political party, despite Hazare’s objections. Singh claimed Kejriwal had abandoned his promises to the people in pursuit of political power.

Kumbh Stampede and Congress Criticism

In another part of his speech, Singh condemned Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge for making controversial remarks about the Maha Kumbh. He questioned whether Kharge would make similar statements about other religions. He also referred to the tragic stampede during the Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh, expressing his condolences and vowing to discuss the incident with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

BJP’s Commitment to Delhi’s Progress

Pledging that the BJP would continue all of the AAP government’s schemes if they came to power, Singh urged voters to give the saffron party a chance to lead Delhi. “I am here to appeal to you: save Delhi. What has the AAP government done to it?” Singh asked the crowd.

Delhi Assembly Elections

As the Delhi Assembly elections approach, with voting set for February 5 and results to be counted on February 8, the BJP is intensifying its efforts to present itself as the alternative to the AAP and Congress, promising a fresh approach to governance in the capital

Vice President Dhankhar Warns Against Illegal Migration and Calls for Youth to Counter Anti-National Narratives

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Vice President Dhankhar Warns Against Illegal Migration and Calls for Youth to Counter Anti-National Narratives

In a compelling address at the World Forum of Accountants (WOFA) conference in the capital on Sunday, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman, Jagdeep Dhankhar, underscored the urgent need to address the challenge of illegal migration, which he believes could destabilize the country’s political and demographic fabric. Dhankhar also expressed deep concerns over the increasing disruptions in Parliament and called on the youth to take charge in neutralizing anti-national narratives.

Demographic Dislocations a Threat to Electoral Politics

Speaking on the issues of illegal migration, Dhankhar warned that the country could not afford to overlook the implications of millions of undocumented migrants. “We cannot allow our electoral politics to be disturbed by demographic dislocations and earthquakes. These challenges will eventually be yours to address,” he stated. Without delving into specifics, he emphasized that informed citizens should be aware of these issues and act accordingly, citing the popular saying, “For those who understand, a signal is enough.”

Appeal to Youth: Protect India’s National Interests

The Vice President further urged young Indians to rise above anti-national narratives and focus on promoting the nation’s development journey. He expressed concerns about certain entities who, according to him, are trying to derail India’s growth by generating sensational narratives that overlook the core values of nationalism. “In these narratives, the essence of Bharatiyata, nationalism, and national interest are often forgotten,” Dhankhar remarked.

He called on the youth to “neutralize these anti-national forces” and “defeat those who are inimical to India.”

Economic Nationalism for a Stronger India

Focusing on the economy, Dhankhar highlighted the importance of economic nationalism. He said that fostering a sense of pride in India’s economy and embracing this mindset will not only secure national interests but will also propel the country towards sustainable growth. He urged Indian chartered accountants and firms to make their mark globally, positioning themselves as key players in the international financial landscape.

A Vision for India’s Future

In closing, the Vice President expressed optimism for India’s future, stressing that the nation’s youth holds the power to shape the future. “The challenges we face today are not insurmountable, but it requires the collective effort of every Indian, particularly the youth,” he said.

Conference Highlights:

  • Organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
  • Dhankhar’s call for economic nationalism and youth engagement in national issues
  • Promoting the role of Indian chartered accountants on the global stage

As India marches towards an increasingly powerful and self-reliant future, Dhankhar’s words resonate as a call to action—empowering the nation’s youth to protect its integrity and drive it forward on the global stage.

Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar: A Champion for Animal Welfare in Kishtwar

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Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar: A Champion for Animal Welfare in Kishtwar

Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar, a respected legal professional from Kishtwar district, is making waves in his community with his selfless work rescuing animals and spreading awareness about animal welfare. Alongside his legal practice, Parihar has devoted his time and energy to rescuing distressed animals and promoting kindness toward them, leaving a lasting impact on both his local area and beyond.

Rescuing Animals, Saving Lives

Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar’s passion for animal welfare goes beyond words; it translates into action. He has become an instrumental figure in rescuing injured and abandoned animals, from stray dogs to wildlife in distress. His unwavering commitment has seen him step in during emergencies to provide immediate medical care and, when needed, arrange for rehabilitation or safe shelter.

In addition to rescuing animals, Parihar has also made efforts to ensure their long-term well-being. His work extends to helping raise awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership, and he encourages local communities to report animal abuse or neglect.

Spreading the Message of Compassion

Through his actions, Advocate Parihar has become a champion of animal rights in his region. He is not only rescuing animals but also educating the public about the significance of empathy and kindness towards animals. By spreading the message of animal welfare across Kishtwar, he is inspiring many to take responsibility for the well-being of the animals around them.

His efforts are making a difference in the community, with more people becoming involved in helping animals in need. Parihar’s message of kindness has resonated with locals and even caught the attention of national organizations working in animal welfare.

A Role Model for the Community

Parihar’s dedication to animal welfare, alongside his professional responsibilities as an advocate, serves as an example of how one person’s actions can impact an entire community. His unwavering commitment to animals reflects his belief that compassion should be at the heart of all human interactions, whether it’s through law or in everyday life.

The lawyer-turned-animal-activist has become a respected figure in Kishtwar, earning admiration for his tireless work. His noble endeavors have encouraged others to get involved, whether it’s by adopting pets, supporting rescue organizations, or simply being more mindful of the animals around them.

A Legacy of Kindness

Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar’s story is a testament to the power of compassion. Through his tireless efforts in rescuing and caring for animals, he is not only making a significant difference to the lives of animals but also fostering a culture of kindness and empathy that transcends boundaries. His actions are helping to pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future, where both humans and animals coexist peacefully.

Key Highlights:

  • Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar is rescuing distressed animals across Kishtwar.
  • Raising awareness about animal welfare, he has become a role model for locals and beyond.
  • Spreading kindness through his work, Parihar inspires others to get involved in animal care.

Advocate Kulveer Singh Parihar’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals showcases how one person’s compassion can ignite a chain of positive change, not just locally, but nationwide.

Amrit Udyan Opens for Public Viewing from February 2 to March 30, 2025

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Amrit Udyan Opens for Public Viewing from February 2 to March 30, 2025

The renowned Amrit Udyan, located at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, will open for public viewing starting February 2, 2025, and will remain open until March 30, 2025. The garden, known for its stunning displays of seasonal flowers, will be open six days a week from 10 am to 6 pm, except on Mondays, which are reserved for maintenance, the Rashtrapati Bhavan announced on Saturday.

Free Entry with Booking Options

Entry to the garden is free, but visitors must make a booking through the official website at visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in. Visitors can also walk into the park without prior booking. Entry and exit will be from Gate No. 35, located near North Avenue, adjacent to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Additionally, a shuttle bus service will be available from the Central Secretariat Metro Station to Gate No. 35 every 30 minutes between 9:30 am and 6 pm.

Special Features of Amrit Udyan 2025

This year’s edition of Amrit Udyan will feature a spectacular display of over 140 types of roses, tulips, and more than 80 other varieties of flowers. Visitors can explore the garden’s diverse sections, including the Bal Vatika, Plumeria Theme Garden, Bonsai Garden, Central Lawn, Long Garden, and Circular Garden. For those seeking detailed information about specific displays, QR codes will be available throughout the garden for easy access to relevant information.

Visitor Amenities and Services

The garden will provide essential amenities, including drinking water, toilets, and first aid facilities at various locations along the public route. Visitors will also be allowed to carry mobile phones, electronic keys, purses/handbags, water bottles, and milk bottles for infants.

Scheduled Closures and Special Days

Amrit Udyan will remain closed on February 5, due to the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, February 20 and 21 for the Visitors’ Conference at Rashtrapati Bhavan, and March 14 in observance of Holi. Special access will be granted to specific categories on the following dates:

  • March 26: Divyangjan (people with disabilities)
  • March 27: Defence, paramilitary, and police personnel
  • March 28: Women and tribal women’s self-help groups
  • March 29: Senior citizens

Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav

In addition to the garden’s floral displays, the Rashtrapati Bhavan will host the Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav from March 6 to 9, 2025, as part of Amrit Udyan. This year’s festival will showcase the rich cultural heritage and unique traditions of Southern India.

Other Attractions at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Apart from Amrit Udyan, visitors can also explore the Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday. Every Saturday, visitors can also witness the Change of Guard Ceremony, except on Gazetted holidays.

Key Details:

  • Opening Dates: February 2 – March 30, 2025
  • Timings: 10 am – 6 pm, closed on Mondays
  • Entry: Free, with booking available at visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in
  • Special Access Days: March 26 (Divyangjan), March 27 (Defence & Police), March 28 (Women & Tribal Women), March 29 (Senior Citizens)
  • Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav: March 6-9, showcasing Southern Indian culture

Over 17,000 Chickens and Quails Culled in Chhattisgarh After Bird Flu Outbreak

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Over 17,000 Chickens and Quails Culled in Chhattisgarh After Bird Flu Outbreak

At least 17,000 chickens and quails were culled in Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh after the avian influenza (bird flu) was detected at a state-run poultry farm. This action follows the detection of the H5N1 virus, which has led authorities to impose stringent measures to contain the outbreak.

The first signs of the outbreak came when several chickens were found dead at the poultry farm located in Chakradhar Nagar. Samples were sent for testing to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal, which confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus late Friday night. In response, Raigarh Collector Kartikeya Goel convened an emergency meeting with senior officials to address the situation promptly.

Swift Action to Prevent Spread

Following the confirmation of bird flu, a joint operation was launched overnight by personnel from the municipal corporation, veterinary, and health departments. In a coordinated effort, approximately 5,000 chickens, 12,000 quails, and 17,000 eggs and poultry feed were destroyed to prevent further contamination. Authorities worked to ensure that the situation was controlled before sunrise and that the infection did not spread beyond the affected area.

The farm has been sealed, and the surrounding areas have been placed under strict surveillance. A 1 km radius around the farm has been designated as an ‘infected zone’, while a 10 km radius has been declared a ‘surveillance zone’. Within the infected zone, all poultry birds, eggs, and feed are being destroyed, and the movement of these items has been completely banned.

Precautionary Measures and Compensation

In line with the protocols, the animal husbandry department has assured compensation to poultry farm owners affected by the culling. Additionally, poultry and egg shops within the surveillance zone will remain closed to curb the spread of the virus.

While no cases of human infection have been reported, Dr. Bhanu Patel from the Raigarh health department emphasized the need for vigilance. “The bird flu virus primarily affects birds and animals, and there have been no instances of human transmission in India. However, it’s crucial for people to stay alert for flu-like symptoms and seek medical attention if needed,” he said.

The health department has initiated a door-to-door survey within the 1 km radius of the affected farm to ensure any individuals with flu symptoms are promptly treated. Dr. Patel urged residents to remain cautious and visit the nearest health center if they experience symptoms such as fever.

Key Measures Taken:

  • 17,000 chickens and quails culled at affected poultry farm.
  • 1 km ‘infected zone’ and 10 km ‘surveillance zone’ established.
  • Poultry, eggs, and feed destroyed in the infected zone, with movement banned.
  • Poultry and egg shops closed in surveillance zone.
  • No human infections reported, but health teams are conducting door-to-door surveys.
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