The expansion of food grain distribution under the National Food Security Act of 2013 has significantly reduced child stunting and improved nutrition across eight Indian states. The initiative also boosted daily wages and household welfare, especially during adverse climate events like droughts, by increasing the consumption of nutrient-dense foods.
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Over 1 crore devotees congregated at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati for the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, braving the cold for a holy dip. The spiritual event, including significant 'amrit snan' days, will run until February 26. Extensive preparations include 8 permanent ghats, 1.6 lakh tents, and 13,000 trains to facilitate pilgrims.
Rahul Gandhi faces criticism from BJP over his "merit a flawed concept" remark regarding caste census and the Karnataka government's decision to approve a 4% minority quota for Muslim contractors. BJP leaders Amit Malviya and Sambit Patra accuse Gandhi of undermining the value of merit and promoting appeasement politics for personal gain.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat called the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya Bharat’s true independence. The grand ceremony was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2024. Bhagwat highlighted the significance of the event as a symbol of national pride and cultural resurgence. Champat Rai received the National Devi Ahilya Award for his role in the temple's construction.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued a new guidance note on the Principal Purpose Test (PPT) for claiming tax treaty benefits, which will be applied prospectively. The grandfathering provisions under the India-Cyprus, India-Mauritius, and India-Singapore DTAAs remain unaffected by this new PPT provision and will continue to be governed by the specific provisions in their respective treaties.
Former Manipur CM N Biren Singh condemns remarks by Bangladesh's interim chief advisor Muhammad Yunus, accusing him of using Northeast India as a strategic pawn for geopolitical gains, calling such statements 'unwise' and cautioning against potential consequences. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Debbarma also criticize Yunus' comments.
An inter-ministerial panel has recommended the construction of India's longest under-river tunnel across the Brahmaputra in Assam, costing approximately Rs 14,900 crore. This project will significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity to northeastern states. However, the panel has deferred the proposal for two tunnels in Jammu and Kashmir due to high costs and the availability of alternative routes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized previous governments for neglecting the poor and using the 'Garibi Hatao' slogan as a mere electoral gimmick. He highlighted the BJP-led NDA government's efforts in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty through various welfare schemes and reforms, including cleaning up the bogus ration card system.
The Court of the Chief Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities has fined 155 establishments, including central ministries and private firms, Rs 10,000 each for not meeting digital accessibility standards. Establishments must deposit the fines in the National Fund for Persons with Disabilities and face higher penalties if they fail to comply after February 28.
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) initially announced a hike in the honorarium for special police officers (SPOs) via social media, but later clarified it hadn't happened and dismissed the responsible adviser. This reversal drew criticism and raised questions about government pressure.
The Indian home ministry extended the validity of FCRA registration certificates for NGOs by six months. This applies to licenses expiring between April 1, 2025, and June 30, 2025, contingent on timely renewal applications. The extension ensures a smooth transition to stricter FCRA regulations implemented since 2020.