Released on the eve of Republic Day, the 2025 Padma Shri list honors unsung heroes contributing to Indian culture, heritage, and social progress. It highlights individuals from diverse fields, including a para-archer, social activists, folk artists, and conservationists, showcasing India's vibrant cultural and social achievements.
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The Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Haryana will suspend Ayushman Bharat scheme services from February 3 due to Rs 400 crore in pending reimbursements. Around 1,300 hospitals are affected. Key demands include immediate payment of dues, no deductions after approval, and rectification of the TMS 2 portal. Discussions with the state government have not resolved the issue.
The state government has formed a 10-member SIT, led by CID DIG Basavraj Teli, to investigate the murder of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. This action follows the surrender of Valmik Karad, who is accused in an extortion case linked to the murder. Karad, an aide of Minister Dhananjay Munde, claims political vendetta.
The Indian government anticipates a slowdown in highway construction over the next two years due to fewer new project awards in 2023-24. Despite this, the road transport ministry aims to exceed its target of constructing 10,400 km of national highways this fiscal year, hoping to reach 11,000 km, though maintaining this momentum will be challenging.
Harish Rawat, former Uttarakhand chief minister, faced a setback as he found his name missing from the voters list during Dehradun's municipal elections. Despite being a resident since 2009, Rawat was unable to vote, alleging BJP's involvement in altering the list. Voting is underway for multiple municipal positions across Uttarakhand.
The Election Commission has issued a notice to Arvind Kejriwal seeking evidence for his claims that Haryana poisoned Yamuna waters. The poll panel reminded him of legal provisions against statements that incite group enmity, which could lead to a criminal case if unsubstantiated. Kejriwal must respond by Wednesday, while separate complaints about water contamination are being addressed.
Dr. Bhaskar Das, a significant force in India's media and advertising sectors, passed away, leaving a lasting legacy. His transformative work at The Times of India Group, Zee Media, and Republic Media showcased his visionary leadership. His lectures at top institutions and his contributions to The Advertising Club of India are fondly remembered. Rest in peace, Bhaskar Da.
The DG-level talks between the BSF and BGB will address the issue of India's construction of a single-row fence along the Indo-Bangladesh border. BSF had halted construction in West Bengal after BGB objections. Despite prior approvals, BGB seeks to revisit agreements following a regime change. Additional concerns include border tensions unrelated to the fence and the recent killing of a suspected smuggler.
Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced in Prayagraj with 1.7 crore devotees taking a sacred dip at Sangam on Paush Purnima amidst a chilling 10° Celsius. The 45-day event, marked by spirituality and vibrant cultural heritage, sees increased pilgrim influx due to its rare celestial alignment.
Unicef's report reveals that over 1.8 lakh children and adolescents below 19 years lose their lives annually in road accidents, with 70% occurring in lower- and middle-income countries. The highest fatalities are in Africa and Southeast Asia. The report emphasizes the need for improved road safety measures and infrastructural developments in these regions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver a keynote address at a webinar discussing the 2026 budget announcements for agriculture and rural sectors. Organized by the agriculture ministry, the event will feature various speakers, including Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and aims to strategize effective implementation and engage key stakeholders.