Belagavi will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's 1924 Congress session. Nearby Hudali, where Gandhi stayed in 1937, continues his teachings of self-reliance and non-violence. The village thrives on Khadi production, abstains from alcohol and tobacco, and maintains communal harmony, making it a model of Gandhi's vision for rural India.
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The Election Commission of India announced bypoll dates for the assembly constituencies of Milkipur in Uttar Pradesh and Erode East in Tamil Nadu. Polling will be held on February 5 and votes will be counted on February 8. The vacancies were created by the resignation of Awadhesh Prasad and the demise of EVKS Elangovan.
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A nine-hour bandh called by farmers' unions for a legally guaranteed minimum support price paralyzed Punjab's transport, with bus and rail services halted. Stranded passengers faced difficulties at railway stations. Protesters caused disruptions and confrontations, while farm activist Jagjit Singh Dallewal's health became a focal point. Rival factions plan parallel kisan mahapanchayats in January.
India is keenly monitoring China's plan to build a hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river and is implementing measures to protect its downstream interests. The Indian government has raised concerns with China and is engaged in discussions to ensure transparency and uphold the rights of downstream states.
Ericsson CEO Borje Ekholm highlighted India's importance to the company at the ET Now Global Business Summit, citing the country's rapid 5G adoption and digitalisation. With 270 million 5G subscribers, India has significantly contributed to economic growth, inspiring Ericsson to enhance its research in AI and 6G technologies.
Katra, the base camp for Vaishno Devi temple resumed normalcy after a week-long shutdown. The government released 18 protesters and suspended the ropeway project until concerns are addressed. Pilgrims returned to the town, and traffic movement was restored. The project aimed to help senior citizens, but locals feared losing their livelihoods.
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has urged the central government to allow states more flexibility in forming Waqf boards, stressing the importance of inclusivity for Muslim women and youth. TDP's support is crucial for the ruling NDA coalition given the opposition from Muslim bodies to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
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Total annual groundwater recharge in India slightly declined in 2024 due to higher extraction, with significant contributions from northwest states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. Increase in 'critical' and 'over-exploited' units raises concerns about water scarcity, despite improvement in some areas.
British Airways introduces an in-person service in local languages for Indian customers traveling to London. The free 'meet and assist' service, available in Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu, and Tamil, helps passengers with check-in, airport navigation, boarding, and transit at London Heathrow. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and improve customer experience on BA flights from five Indian cities.