News Highlights: India's 34 unsung heroes to be honoured

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Lakshmi Devi, Petitioner, Hindu Side speaks on Archaeological Survey of India's report, says, "Several pieces of evidence have been found that there was a temple here before...We are very happy... We will request for the survey of the other parts too."

ASI report reveals reuse of Hindu temple elements in Gyanvapi structure, says Advocate Jain.

He says, "The ASI has said that the pillars and plasters used in the existing structure were studied systematically and scientifically for the enlargement of the mosque and constructing Sahan. Parts of preexisting temples, including pillars and plasters, were reused with little modifications. A minute study of pillars and plasters in corridors suggests that they were originally part of a preexisting Hindu temple for their reuse in the existing structure, Vyala figures carved on either side of the lotus medallion were mutilated and after removing the stone mass from the corners, that space was decorated with floral design. This observation is supported by two similar plasters still existing on the north and southern walls of the western chamber in their original place."

PM Modi writes on social media platform X, "Welcome to India, my friend President
@EmmanuelMacron. I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, 26th January, in Delhi. His presence not only strengthens the ties between our nations but also adds a significant chapter to our shared history of friendship and collaboration."

ASI unearths evidence of Hindu temple beneath existing structure, says Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain who represents the Hindu side

ASI report indicates presence of Hindu temple, says Advocate Jain

Architectural remains and inscriptions support Hindu temple existence, Jain reveals

Hindu deities' sculptures and artifacts found, Jain gives details

Padma awards LIVE: 34 unsung heroes to receive Padma awards

Vishnu Shankar Jain says, "The ASI has said that Sculptures of Hindu deities and carved architectural members were found buried under the dumped soil... Existing architectural remains, decorated mouldings on the walls, a large decorated entrance gate, a small entrance with a mutilated image, and birds and animals carved for decoration in and outside suggest that the western wall are remaining part of a Hindu temple. The Arabic Persian inscription found inside a room mentions that the mosque was built in the 20th regnal year of Aurangzeb. Hence the preexisting structure appears to have been destroyed in the 17th century... Based on the scientific studies survey carried outstudy of architectural remains, exposed features and artefacts inscriptions, art and sculptures, it can be said that there existed a Hindu temple prior to the construction of the existing structure. A report of a total of 839 pages has been filed by ASI."

Yanung Jamoh Lego, East Siang-based herbal medicine expert who has provided medical care to over 10,000 patients, educated 1 lakh individuals on medicinal herbs and trained SHGs in their use, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Others (Agriculture Medicinal Plants)

Somanna, a Tribal Welfare Worker from Mysuru, tirelessly working for the upliftment of Jenu Kuruba tribe for over 4 decades, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Social Work (Tribal PVTG)

Prema Dhanraj, Plastic Reconstructive Surgeon Social Worker, dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of burn victims her legacy extending beyond surgery, championing burn prevention awareness and policy reform, to receive Padma Shri in the filed of Medicine (Indigenous Burns)

Dukhu Majhi, Tribal Environmentalist from Sindri village, Purulia who planted over 5,000 Banyan, Mango and Blackberry trees on barren land, while travelling to new destinations on his bicycle every day, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Social Work (Environment Afforestation).

K Chellammal, Organic Farmer from South Andaman successfully developed a 10-acre organic farm, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Others (Agriculture Organic).

Sangthankima, a social worker from Aizawl who has been running Mizoram's largest orphanage 'Thutak Nunpuitu Team', to receive Padma Shri in the field of Social Work (Children)

Hemchand Manjhi, a traditional medicinal practitioner from Narayanpur providing affordable healthcare to villagers for over 5 decades, having started serving the needy since the age of 15, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Medicine (AYUSH Traditional Medicine)

Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, are announced every year on the occasion of Republic Day except for brief interruption(s) during the years 1978 and 1979 and 1993 to 1997. The award is given in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order; and Padma Shri for distinguished service.

Parbati Baruah, India's first female elephant mahout who started taming the wild tuskers at the age of 14 to overcome stereotypes, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Social Work (Animal Welfare).

Yazdi Maneksha Italia, Developer of India's first Sickle Cell Anemia Control Program, awarded Padma Shri.

Sathyanarayana Beleri, a Rice farmer from Kasaragod who evolved into a guardian of paddy crops by preserving over 650 traditional rice varieties, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Others (Agriculture Cereal Rice).

Gurvinder Singh, Divyang Social Worker from Sirsa who worked for the betterment of homeless destitute, women, orphans and divyangjan, to receive Padma Shri in the field of Social Work (divyangjan)

MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in response to media queries regarding remarks made by Pakistan Foreign Ministry, says, "We have seen media reports regarding certain remarks by Pakistan Foreign Secretary. It is Pakistan’s latest attempt at peddling false and malicious anti-India propaganda. As the world knows, Pakistan has long been the epicentre of terrorism, organised crime, and illegal transnational activities. India and many other countries have publicly warned Pakistan cautioning that it would be consumed by its own culture of terror and violence. Pakistan will reap what it sows. To blame others for its own misdeeds can neither be a justification nor a solution.”

Jaipur shopkeeper Rajeev Agrawal at whose shop PM Modi and French president Emmanuel Macron stopped over during the roadshow earlier in the evening, said, “We have replicated the (Ram) Mandir’s model as it is built. When (French President) Macron asked about it, he (PM Modi) patiently explained the story behind it to him. Macron was very astonished by the story. PM Modi then gifted that model to Macron by paying Rs 500 through the BHIM UPI app.”

Congress chief Kharge, Rahul Gandhi will be delighted if Mamata Banerjee joins Nyay Yatra in WB even if it's for few minutes, says Jairam Ramesh

--President Droupadi Murmu has approved Gallantry awards to 80 Armed Forces personnel, including 12 posthumous, on the eve of the 75th Republic Day. These include six Kirti Chakras, including three posthumous; 16 Shaurya Chakras, including two posthumous; 53 Sena Medals, including seven posthumous; one Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) and four Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).

--Captain Anshuman Singh, Army Medical Corps, 26TH battalion Punjab Regiment, Havaldar Abdul Majid of 9 Para Special Forces unit and Sepoy Pawan Kumar of 55 Rashtriya Rifles (Grenadiers) awarded the second highest peacetime gallantry award - Kirti Chakra, posthumously

--Indian Army’s Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Central Army Commander Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani, Southern Army Commander Lt Gen AK Singh awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day. Indian Air Force’s Maintenance Command chief Air Marshal Vibhas Pande awarded PVSM.

--As our country moves towards completing a century of independence, it is also passing through the initial phase of ‘Amrit Kaal’, President Droupadi Murmu said while addressing the nation on the eve of India’s 75th Republic Day on January 25.

--“This is a period of epochal change. We have been given the golden opportunity to take the country to new heights. Contribution from every citizen will be crucial to achieving our goals,” President Murmu said.

--Elaborating on how the period of 'Amrit Kaal' will be the period of unprecedented technological changes, she said: “Technological advances like Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are becoming a part of our daily lives. There are many areas of concern in the future, but there are also exciting opportunities ahead, especially for the youth. They are exploring new frontiers. We need to do all we can to remove hurdles from their path and let them unleash their full potential.”

"The period of 'Amrit Kaal' will be the period of unprecedented technological changes. Technological advances like Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are becoming a part of our daily lives. There are many areas of concern in the future, but there are also exciting opportunities ahead, especially for the youth. They are exploring new frontiers. We need to do all we can to remove hurdles from their path and let them unleash their full potential," says President Droupadi Murmu.

President Droupadi Murmu has approved Gallantry awards to 80 Armed Forces personnel, including 12 posthumous, on the eve of the 75th Republic Day. These include six Kirti Chakras, including three posthumous; 16 Shaurya Chakras, including two posthumous; 53 Sena Medals, including seven posthumous; one Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) and four Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).

President Murmu said, "Earlier this week, we witnessed the historic 'Pran Pratishtha' of the idol of Lord Shri Ram in the glorious new temple constructed in Ayodhya. When this event is seen from a wider perspective, future historians will consider it a landmark in India’s continued re-discovery of its civilisational heritage. The construction of the temple commenced after the due judicial process and the decision of the highest court of the land. Now it stands as a grand edifice, giving a befitting expression not only of people’s faith but also as a testament to people’s enormous trust in judicial process."

"Our GDP growth rate has remained the highest among major economies in recent years, and we have all reasons to believe that this performance will continue in the year 2024 and beyond," says Murmu.

President Murmu addresses the nation on the eve of the 75th Republic Day

Murmu says, "Tomorrow is the day when we celebrate the commencement of the Constitution. Its Preamble begins with the words “We, the People of India”, highlighting the theme of the document, namely, democracy. In India, the democratic system is much older than the concept of western democracy. That is the reason why India is called the “mother of democracy."

"In 2014, when PM Modi came into power, there were only 14 crore gas connections. Now, these connections have increased to 32 crore. And the (Pradhan Mantri) Ujjwala Yojana that was started in 2016 now has more than 10 crore beneficiaries," says Union Minister Hardeep Puri, addressing the curtain-raising event of India Energy Week 2024 in Delhi.

RJD leader Shakti Singh Yadav on the political situation in Bihar, says, "The current government is working with trust and will continue to do so."

Dr Toolika Gupta, Director of the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design, on French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Jaipur's Amer Fort, says, “I think, President Macron is really impressed. These are traditional crafts and he wanted to know how is this continuing. He interacted and asked how they learned all the techniques. He thoroughly enjoyed."

PM Modi and French President Macron will visit the Jantar Mantar, the famous solar observatory established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, in Jaipur today. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in July 2010. It includes a set of eighteen instruments and is the biggest stone observatory in the world. It consists of various instruments which include the Laghu Samrat Yantra which is a Sun Dial that can help to calibrate local time to an accuracy of 20 seconds.

This is for the first time in the history that Delhi Police is participating with its all-women parade and band contingent in Republic Day Parade. This year the parade is led by Shweta K Sugathan IPS, Addl. DCP/North district. She also led the Delhi Police contingent in Republic Day Parade 2023 and is the second women IPS officer after Kiran Bedi to lead the parade.

Delhi Area GOC, Lt General Bhavnish Kumar says, "Some of the aircraft would also be flown by the women pilots as you talk during the parade. So we are showcasing, if I tell you, in the format of the tri-service, you are going to see the air power which our nation has. That will be in the format of the fly past, you would get to see the air fleet, the fighter air fleet, including the indigenous components like the Tejas aircraft, the Rudra helicopter and the Prachand helicopter. In the army, components are coming in form of the equipment, new generation equipment and new technology which has been adopted. The Nag Antitank Missile system and the 15-meter short-span bridge Sarvatra as also medium-range surface-to-air missiles and the weapon locating radar of RT, that is Swathi. These are all indigenously built equipment. And then a whole lot of infantry new generation vehicles which would facilitate our operations in various terrains, be it northern borders or the western borders like quick reaction vehicles, heavy or medium, then an all-terrain vehicle, vehicle-mounted infantry motor system."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressing Workers' Convention in Telangana, says, "Every day you see ads on the front page of newspapers stating - "Modi ki guarantee". I want to ask, did you (PM Modi) fulfill earlier guarantees? I will ask him (the PM) everything in the coming session (of Parliament). Stomachs are not fulfilled by showing by the photos of god to people. He (the PM) has a habit of coming up with excuses - like Pakistan, China, the god- whenever there is a crisis. Don't get entangled in his trap. If you get trapped, democracy will end in the country."

Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur interacting with the Para Players ahead of Republic Day Parade 2024, says, "You have increased the honour of the country. Youth after reading about you in the newspapers, also feel the desire to come to the field. our stories are inspiring for everyone.”

Union Minister Giriraj Singh says, "Rahul Gandhi is such a person who does not know anything, why does he give statements, on what is he giving statements, is there an alliance or not, he is just walking...I would suggest to him that he should leave the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and come on the Gyan Yatra. If you have knowledge then everything is done."

TMC MP Sushmita Dev while speaking on the INDIA bloc, says, "Several meetings happened. We said finish the seat sharing by December 31 but that didn’t happen, and we are in January now. So, under these circumstances, the best strategy to defeat the BJP in (West) Bengal is for TMC to fight all 42 seats alone."

BJP leader Rahul Sinha says, ""Those who can't keep their parties together, how can we expect them to keep the country together. That's why they are doing this stupidity in the name of 'Bharat Jodo'. Nothing is going to happen. They (Congress) won't be getting anyone's support."

When govt reaches all beneficiaries, there is no scope for discrimination, corruption; this is true secularism, social justice, says PM Modi

"Mamata Banerjee is one of the most experienced and charismatic CMs in India. Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi have nothing but the highest of regard, affection and respect for Mamata Banerjee. I am sure that whatever differences there may be between the TMC and Congress, will be resolved in a satisfactory manner," says Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

"On the twelfth day of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, we have entered West Bengal. We are going through Cooch Behar, from Cooch Behar to Alipurduar, then Jalpaiguri, then Darjeeling, then Uttar Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum and then we will go to Jharkhand. Totally, we will spend 5.5 days in West Bengal," says Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

During his visit, French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit the hilltop fort of Amber and the iconic Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. The Ministry of External Affairs has outlined that Macron will depart for Delhi at approximately 8:50 pm.

Within his six-hour stay in Jaipur, Macron is set to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a roadshow, commencing at the Jantar Mantar area at 6 pm. Later, the leaders will engage in bilateral talks at Taj Rambagh Palace.

The agenda for the bilateral dialogue encompasses discussions on cooperation in various domains, including the digital sector, defense, trade, clean energy, youth exchanges, and the facilitation of visa norms for Indian students. This visit underscores the significance of India-France relations, with both leaders focusing on strengthening ties across diverse areas of collaboration.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in India on January 25 to participate as the chief guest in the Republic Day Parade. Upon his arrival in Jaipur, he is set to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a tour of heritage sites and a roadshow.

Macron's visit marks the culmination of the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the India-France Strategic Partnership, highlighting the enduring diplomatic and strategic ties between the two nations.

In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the historical development patterns in India, stating, "For a long time in the decades after Independence, development in India was limited to only a few areas. A very large part of the country remained deprived of development." He specifically highlighted Uttar Pradesh, home to the country's largest population, and pointed out that it did not receive adequate attention during this period.

PM Modi attributed this neglect to a governance approach where those in power adopted a ruler-like mentality, focusing on perpetuating poverty and societal divisions as a means to gain political power. Acknowledging the long-lasting consequences, he stressed that the people of Uttar Pradesh bore generational costs due to this approach.

Additionally, he emphasised that the entire country suffered a significant loss as a result of the uneven and limited focus on development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude for the realization of the dream of leaders like Kalyan Singh, saying, "It is our good fortune that the country has fulfilled the dream of Kalyan Singh and many people like him."

However, he emphasised the need to accelerate efforts to realise the shared vision of building a strong nation and achieving true social justice. The PM called for collective action, saying, "For this, we have to work together."

Referring to his earlier statement in Ayodhya, PM Modi reiterated that the consecration of Ram Lalla has been completed, and now is the time to elevate the nation's prestige to new heights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the public on January 25, emphasised the significance of Uttar Pradesh, the state with the largest population in the country. He noted that historically, UP has not received adequate attention, attributing this to a prolonged period during which those in power behaved more like rulers.

The PM expressed concern about the repercussions, stating that many generations in UP have paid the price for this neglect. He stressed that if the largest state in the country is weak, it hampers the overall strength of the nation. Being a Member of Parliament (MP) from Uttar Pradesh, the PM acknowledged having a special responsibility towards the development and well-being of the state.

Prime Minister Modi on January initiated the Lok Sabha election campaign by unveiling development projects exceeding Rs 19,000 crore in Bulandshahr. The campaign commenced with a spirited slogan of "Bharat Mata ki Jai."

Expressing gratitude for the trust and love of the people, the PM emphasised the significance of their support. He stated, "Today, western Uttar Pradesh has been endowed with development projects surpassing Rs 19,000 crore, spanning railway lines, highways, petroleum pipelines, water and sewage infrastructure, medical colleges, and industrial cities."

Acknowledging the presence of mothers and sisters at the public meetings, PM Modi Modi underscored the value of their blessings. As part of the election campaign, the PM is also slated to visit Jaipur alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, featuring a planned road show.

The dynamics within the Grand Alliance government in Bihar are facing increased scrutiny, as reports emerge of a perceived strain in the relationship between Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav. Following a brisk conclusion of the cabinet meeting, a number of ministers from the Nitish-led government were seen leaving with a notably somber demeanor. Notably, the CM opted for the lift, while the Deputy CM chose the stairs at the secretariat, according a report on News 18 Hindi website.

The body language of the leaders, particularly Yadav waiting next to the lift for Kumar, hints at a less-than-harmonious atmosphere during the meeting. The presence of Minister Ashok Chaudhary alongside Yadav only adds to the intrigue surrounding the situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 25 highlighted the vital importance of each vote in a democracy during the ‘Namo Navmatdata Sammelan.’ He urged young voters to actively participate, emphasising their crucial role in shaping India’s future.

In the pursuit of India's goal to become a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047, the PM highlighted the youth's pivotal role in determining the nation's progress across various sectors, including space, defense, manufacturing, and technology.

He emphasised that a stable government is essential for impactful decision-making and progress.

Former Karnataka chief minister Jagadish Shettar, who had joined the Congress last year ahead of the Karnataka assembly election, has now rejoined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The 68-year-old Shettar, a senior BJP leader and a staunch RSS member, had switched to the Congress after being denied a ticket during the 2023 assembly election.

His return to the BJP is seen as a significant development, especially considering his political influence and the fact that he belongs to the influential Lingayat community.

During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in West Bengal, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed his satisfaction in visiting the state. He conveyed the party's purpose in listening to the people and standing in solidarity. Rahul Gandhi criticized BJP-RSS for allegedly spreading hatred, violence, and injustice, emphasizing the INDIA formation's commitment to collectively combat injustice. The yatra aims to address societal issues and foster unity against perceived inequities, reflecting the party's dedication to creating a more just and inclusive India.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged a thorough assessment of India's past and present, emphasizing the importance of gathering information from various sources and engaging with diverse perspectives. She cautioned against relying on a singular narrative, highlighting that public discourse can sometimes be skewed. Sitharaman cited examples such as the nation's fast-growing economy and thriving stock market, contrasting it with narratives that portray the economy as ailing and certain sectors as underperforming. The Finance Minister called for a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of India's economic and social landscape.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed a concern raised by the industry regarding the readiness of university graduates for employment. She highlighted the existing gap between the skills possessed by students and the requirements of the industry. Sitharaman acknowledged ongoing efforts in collaboration with state governments to address this gap but acknowledged the need to intensify these initiatives. The Finance Minister emphasized the importance of bridging the divide between academic knowledge and industry demands to enhance employability and ensure a seamless transition for students entering the workforce.

As part of the grand reception for French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their visit, approximately 24,000 students from government schools in Jaipur will create a human chain along JLN Marg and the roads in the walled city. Officials reported that the students will line the left side of the roads, holding both Indian and French flags. The district education officer issued an order outlining the plan, specifying that students must gather at designated points between Jaipur airport's state hangar and Sanganeri Gate in the walled city. The order emphasizes arrival times at different locations to ensure the successful formation of the human chain.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, addressing the audience at the University of Delhi's Hindu College, emphasized the underlying principle guiding governance from 2014 till now: a sense of urgency. She highlighted a historical lack of urgency in addressing fundamental needs and empowering the people during the first 50 years after independence. Sitharaman's remarks underscore the government's commitment to expedite development initiatives for the betterment of citizens, signaling a shift in approach towards a more proactive and responsive governance model.

In a swift response to Mamata Banerjee's decision to part ways with Congress in the Lok Sabha polls in Bengal, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar joined the chorus by criticizing UPA governments. Nitish Kumar questioned the erstwhile UPA administrations for their alleged inaction on his appeals to confer Bharat Ratna upon socialist leader Karpoori Thakur. Additionally, he took a swipe at dynastic politics, contrasting it with praise for PM Narendra Modi's government for honoring the architect of quota politics with the country's highest civilian award. Nitish Kumar's comments reflect the shifting political dynamics within the INDIA bloc.

On Thursday, January 25, Justice Prasanna B Varale was sworn in as a judge of the Supreme Court. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud administered the oath to Justice Varale, formerly the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court and a judge of the Bombay High Court. This significant appointment adds to Justice Varale's distinguished legal career, bringing his expertise and experience to the highest court in the country.

Leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal pointed fingers at the Congress, asserting that the alliance collapsed due to the latter's unreasonable demands and a perceived prioritization of the CPI(M). TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee, also the Chief Minister of West Bengal, announced the party's decision to go solo in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. A senior TMC leader accused the Congress of lacking seriousness about the alliance and claimed that the party was placing undue emphasis on seats and showing preference to the CPI(M) both within the state and at INDIA bloc meetings.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, alongside other party leaders, is prepared to restart the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, commencing from Golakganj Chariali in Dhubri, Assam. As the leaders gear up for this journey, it underscores their dedication to grassroots engagement and the political landscape in Assam.

Sri Lanka's parliament has approved the controversial Online Safety bill, granting the government significant powers to regulate online content. The bill, passed on Wednesday, enables the establishment of a commission with extensive authority, allowing it to compel individuals and internet service providers to remove online posts categorized as "prohibited statements." This move has raised concerns, with critics arguing it could potentially stifle freedom of speech, especially during an election year and amid the country's economic crisis that necessitated international financial assistance. The legislation also empowers legal actions against individuals responsible for publishing such posts.

Four Indians lost their lives in a drowning incident on Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, as reported by the Indian High Commission in Canberra on January 25. The High Commission expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims, acknowledging the profound tragedy that unfolded. The details surrounding the incident are currently under investigation, and authorities are working to provide support and assistance to the affected families during this difficult time.

Legendary Indian boxer Mary Kom has refuted recent reports about her retirement, asserting that she hasn't made any official announcement. Clarifying the statement made at a public event, she emphasized that her remarks were misinterpreted. In a statement, Mary Kom said, "Dear Friends from the media, I haven't announced retirement yet and I have been misquoted. I will personally come in front of the media whenever I want to announce it." She explained, "I was attending a school event in Dibrugarh on 24 January 2024 wherein I was motivating children and I said 'I still have a hunger to achieve in sports but the age limit in the Olympics doesn’t allow me to participate though I can carry on with my sport.'" Mary Kom emphasized her ongoing focus on fitness and assured that she would inform everyone when she decides to retire, requesting a correction in the reporting.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka of Telangana held discussions with Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and Puducherry Lt. Governor at Raj Bhavan in Hyderabad today. The meeting covered key matters of regional significance.

Mary Kom, after clinching her eighth world medal – an unprecedented feat unmatched by any boxer, male or female – has announced her retirement. Achieving her sixth world title, she secured a resounding 5-0 victory over Hanna Okhota from Ukraine. Mary Kom's legacy in boxing stands as a testament to her unparalleled dominance in the sport. Her illustrious career includes a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, and from her debut at the age of eighteen in Scranton, Pennsylvania, she consistently set records and claimed titles, leaving an indelible mark on the world of boxing.

The IMD has issued red and orange alerts for a severe cold wave in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan until January 28. Meanwhile, Delhi experiences a deterioration in air quality, reaching 'severe' levels, causing flight delays at Indira Gandhi International Airport due to dense fog. Stay tuned for further updates on the weather conditions.