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- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Star Citizens

Wing Commander Shivangi Singh: India’s Only Woman Rafale Pilot meets President Droupadi Murmu During Her Historic Rafale Sortie

When we think of fighter pilots, the image that often comes to mind is predominantly male. Yet Wing Commander Shivangi Singh, India’s only woman Rafale pilot, has shattered that stereotype. Her dedication, skill, and perseverance in a traditionally male-dominated arena have made her a symbol of the Indian Air Force’s progressive vision and a role model for aspiring women aviators. President Droupadi Murmu made history as she took to the skies in a Rafale fighter jet from the Ambala Air Force Station  a first for any Indian head of state. The sortie was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, Commanding Officer of the Indian Air Force’s prestigious No. 17 Squadron, popularly known as the Golden Arrows. During the 30-minute flight, the President was flown over an area of nearly 100 miles around Ambala, witnessing firsthand the technical prowess and agility of one of the world’s most advanced combat aircraft.Assisting the President into the cockpit was Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, India’s first and only woman Rafale pilot, who has become a symbol of courage and progress within the IAF ranks. After the flight, President Murmu interacted with Singh and posed for photographs beside the sleek fighter jet—a powerful image of women’s growing presence in the defense forces.From Varanasi to the Air Force AcademyHailing from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Shivangi Singh’s fascination with aviation began at a young age. A visit to the Air Force Museum in New Delhi left a lasting impression on her, inspiring her to pursue a career in the skies. After completing her schooling in Varanasi, she graduated from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and joined the Indian Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad, where she underwent rigorous training to become a fighter pilot. Commissioned into the IAF in 2017 as part of the second batch of women fighter pilots, Singh initially flew the MiG-21 Bison, one of India’s most challenging high-speed jets. Her ability to master such complex aircraft showcased her determination and skill, paving the way for her selection for the Rafale program in 2020.Mastering the RafaleThe Dassault Rafale, a French-made multirole combat aircraft, is among the most advanced fighter jets in the world, equipped with the Thales RBE2 AESA radar and precision-strike systems. Shivangi’s Rafale training involved advanced simulator sessions, tactical instruction from French experts, and extensive in-flight exercises to fully harness the jet’s capabilities. Today, she is an integral part of the Golden Arrows Squadron, stationed at the Ambala Air Force Base, India’s first Rafale hub. President Murmu’s Historic SortiePresident Murmu’s flight in the Rafale marked the first time an Indian President had flown this advanced fighter aircraft, symbolizing India’s growing air power. The Ambala Air Force Station, where the sortie took place, has played a crucial role in India’s air defense strategy and is the home base for the Golden Arrows Squadron, known for its elite operational readiness and expertise in precision strikes. Shivangi's story reminds us that every aircraft she flies, every mission she undertakes, and every interaction she has with leaders like President Murmu adds a human dimension to India’s defense narrative, blending bravery, skill, and inspiration.

30 Oct 2025
Star Citizens

Kalaburagi’s Chandrashekhar Shilpi Wins 2024 National Handicraft Award for Masterful Wooden Carvings

In a proud moment for Karnataka and Indian handicrafts, Chandrashekhar Y. Shilpi, a senior artist and traditional carving expert from Kalaburagi, has been selected for the National Handicraft Award 2024, conferred by the Union Ministry of Textiles. Known for his intricate carvings and dedication to preserving the region’s artistic heritage, Mr. Shilpi has earned this national recognition for his exquisitely carved Dwarabagilu, a decorative wooden doorway that showcases rare mastery in traditional art. The award ceremony is scheduled for December 9, 2025, at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi, where President Droupadi Murmu will personally present the honor. Along with the commemorative plaque, the award carries a cash prize of ₹2 lakh.Roots and Training: From Kakkera to KalaburagiChandrashekhar Shilpi’s journey began in Kakkera village in Surpur taluk, Yadgir district. Growing up amidst the rich craft traditions of Kalyana Karnataka, he developed an early fascination for carving wooden doorways and Pooja Bagilus (prayer room doors). He honed his skills under the guidance of Naganna Badiger of Gonala village, a revered artist in traditional doorway carving. This mentorship laid the foundation for Shilpi’s mastery, allowing him to blend intricate designs with structural elegance, a signature characteristic of his work.Preserving and Elevating the Sagaranaadu Art StyleOne of Shilpi’s most significant contributions is his revival and elevation of the Sagaranaadu art style, which is characteristic of the Kalyana Karnataka region, including Yadgir and Kalaburagi. The selection committee praised him for effectively integrating Sagaranaadu motifs with traditional carving techniques, producing works that are not only aesthetically stunning but also culturally resonant. His carvings often reflect regional folklore, religious symbolism, and architectural finesse, bridging past and present through wood.The National Handicraft Award: Honouring Master CraftspersonsThe National Handicraft Award is among India’s highest recognitions for artisans. Introduced in 1965, the award is presented by the President of India and aims to honor outstanding master craftspersons who have significantly contributed to the development and preservation of traditional arts. Alongside the award for Shilpi, the ceremony also includes the Shilp Guru Awards for master craftspersons and the Sant Kabir Award for master weavers. By spotlighting exceptional artisans, the awards inspire communities, promote craft traditions, and preserve India’s rich cultural heritage.Inspiring the Next GenerationWith over four decades of experience, Shilpi continues to train young artists in carving techniques, ensuring that Sagaranaadu art and traditional doorway carving thrive in modern times. His approach combines technical skill, historical knowledge, and cultural storytelling, allowing apprentices to appreciate not just the craft but its deeper significance. Through workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship, Shilpi has built a bridge between heritage and contemporary practice, making traditional art relevant and celebrated in today’s India. Chandrashekhar Shilpi’s National Handicraft Award is not only a personal win but also a celebration of Karnataka’s cultural heritage. From Kakkera to Kalaburagi, from traditional mentorship to national recognition, his journey embodies passion, perseverance, and pride in craft.

22 Oct 2025
Star Citizens

Saylee Agavane: How a Girl with Down Syndrome Danced Her Way to Global Inspiration

Life can be tough for them, but some stories shine brighter than others, inspiring society at large. One such story is that of Saylee Agavane, a trained classical dancer from Pune, whose life exemplifies courage, and excellence. Saylee’s journey is a proof  to the human spirit. Despite being born with Down syndrome, a condition characterized by the presence of an extra chromosome in every cell, she has achieved remarkable milestones in the field of Indian classical dance. Her journey has not only showcased her talent but also offered hope and motivation for parents of children with similar challenges.Honored for Women’s EmpowermentIn 2020, Saylee’s exceptional achievements were recognized at the highest level. She was honored by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan for her dedication to promoting Indian classical dance on an international stage, despite the obstacles posed by her condition. This award celebrated her determination and her contribution to bringing differently-abled artists into the spotlight. Her recognition is a powerful reminder that talent and hard work know no boundaries. For Saylee, dance is more than an art form; it is a way to challenge stereotypes, showcase abilities, and empower others to dream big.Early Life and the DiagnosisSaylee Agavane was born with Down syndrome, a condition that affects both mental and physical development. Children with Down syndrome often experience delays in growth, learning, and motor skills. From the beginning, life presented her with challenges that could have limited her potential. However, Saylee’s family played a crucial role in nurturing her abilities. Her father recognized her affinity for rhythm and movement and encouraged her to explore dance. This support, combined with her natural passion, laid the foundation for a journey that would inspire thousands.Beginnings in Kathak: Starting at NineAt the tender age of nine, Saylee began learning Kathak, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms. Kathak requires precision, agility, and expressive storytelling all skills that can be challenging even for able-bodied dancers. Yet, Saylee’s dedication, focus, and hard work allowed her to master the art form. Over the years, she has performed on numerous stages, participated in television shows, and won several awards. Her ability to express emotions through dance, despite the challenges posed by Down syndrome, has touched the hearts of audiences and critics alike.Daily Practice and DedicationSaylee’s achievements are rooted in discipline. She practices at least two hours of dance every day, ensuring continuous growth and skill enhancement. Her daily routine reflects a strong sense of responsibility toward her art and the people she inspires. Beyond her personal practice, Saylee has taken on the role of a mentor. She trains nearly 100 differently abled children, guiding them in dance and helping them pursue their dreams. She also visits schools across Pune and other cities, providing hands-on training to children with special needs, instilling in them not just skills but also confidence and self-belief. Saylee’s story is not just about personal success; it is about creating an effect of empowerment. Parents of differently-abled children often worry about their child’s future, skills, and societal acceptance. Seeing Saylee excel offers them hope and a tangible example of what is possible. Her journey demonstrates the transformative power of support, dedication, and belief. It encourages society to rethink its assumptions about disabilities and recognize the potential in every child. Saylee has become living proof that with proper guidance, opportunities, and perseverance, challenges can be turned into triumphs.An Inspirational Role ModelSaylee Agavane’s story embodies the idea that circumstances do not define ability. Through Kathak, she has expressed her emotions, told stories, and connected with audiences around the world. Her achievements remind us that determination, consistent effort, and guidance can overcome any obstacle. From a girl born with Down syndrome to an internationally recognized classical dancer and mentor, Saylee’s journey is an ray  of hope. It shows that passion, willpower, and support can transform lives, not just for oneself, but for the community at large.

6 Oct 2025
Star Citizens

How an Enterprising Farmer Came Up With Innovative Solutions That Won Him the President’s Award

Necessity is the mother of invention, and that's what prompted Kadavendi Mahipal Chary, a 42-year-old farmer to come up with innovative solutions like mini-cultivator, mini-tractor, power weeders, and hydraulic lifts for farmers who couldn’t afford expensive equipment available in the market and so ended up doing back-breaking work on the field. Chary, who couldn’t complete his 10th board exams, worked as a bike mechanic. Later he returned to his village to work on his father’s 2-acre land. In those days he couldn’t afford laborers or cows to plough the land. With the knowledge he gained from repairing tractors he started designing the mini-cultivator for ploughing. Chary admits that his initial effort, which involved an auto-rickshaw motor, was unsuccessful. The mini-cultivator functioned after he modified a China-made engine that he had purchased in Hyderabad. After that, he started generating more, he claims. Buoyed by the positive response, Chary is currently producing cultivators by putting together engines from Kolhapur and materials and gears from Hyderabad. His company, Varun Engineering Works, employs 12 people, and they have so far sold about 4,000 cultivators. Chary states that with the machine, a farmer can typically till two to three acres of land in three hours using one liter of diesel. The equipment only costs Rs 50,000, whereas using cows would cost at least Rs 1 lakh and require upkeep. Apart from the cultivator, Chary has also developed a power weeder (20 units have been sold), a mini-truck attached to a trolley that can tow up to one ton, and a tractor hydraulic lift that can lift 500 kg. For his innovations, Chary received the President's Award in 2015 and the National Entrepreneurship Award in 2018  

26 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

The First Woman to Bag 3 Top Awards at IIT Madras With Her Academic Brilliance Receives Award From PM Modi

Kavita Gopal scripted history when she became the first girl student of IIT Madras to win the President of India Prize. She was awarded the prize by the prime minister PM Modi for outstanding academic performance on the occasion of the institute’s 56th annual convocation. Earlier this award has been won only by male students. Ms. Gopal won a hattrick as she bagged two more coveted awards- the Bharat Ratna M Vishveswarayya Memorial prize for highest CGPA in B.Tech and the  B Ravichandran memorial prize for highest CGPA in B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering with. Her CGPA is an impressive 9.95.  Early Years Kavita studied in the Atomic Energy Central School in Anupuram until 10th and then joined Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kalpakkam. It was here, in 11th class she was introduced to Computer Science and programming languages as part of her syllabus. She instantly developed a passion for it and then there was no looking back. She joined IIT Madras in 2015. She participated in many inter-college programming contests and excelled in them. She also enjoyed playing basketball. Future Plans Talking to The News Minute, Kavita said that she has some thrilling plans for the future and it involves coding. She is currently working as a software engineer with Google.  According to Kavita, girls who are interested in this field hesitate from joining these courses due to social barriers and gender biases. In her class, there were only 10 girls in the batch of 60 students. She hopes that more and more girls join this field as she believes that the future is computer science – think Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning. While there is a dearth of female students in STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), we hope that Kavita’s achievement will inspire many to take up this field. Image Source: The News Minute

3 Oct 2019
Star Citizens

Good News

Historic Milestone : President Droupadi Murmu Becomes First Indian President to Fly in Rafale Fighter Jet

President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, created history by taking a sortie in a Rafale fighter aircraft at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana. This momentous flight made her the first President of India to fly in the Rafale and, notably, the first to have flown in two different fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF): the Sukhoi-30 MKI in 2023 and now the Rafale. Dressed in a G-suit and aviator sunglasses, President Murmu exuded calm confidence as she walked toward the sleek French-made jet, flashing a warm thumbs-up before takeoff. Taking off at 11:27 a.m., the flight from Ambala was not just a ceremonial gesture; it represented the strong connection between India’s top leadership and its armed forces.Ambala: The Nerve Centre of India’s Air DefenseAmbala Air Force Station holds immense strategic significance in India’s defense framework. It is the home base of the Rafale fleet, which was officially inducted into the IAF in 2020. The base has been a cornerstone of India’s northern air defense strategy, given its proximity to the western front. Rafale jets from Ambala recently demonstrated their precision and might during Operation Sindoor, launched five months ago to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation sent a clear message to adversaries across the border that India will respond decisively to terrorism. During this mission, Rafales carried out precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure, reflecting not only the aircraft’s technical superiority but also the IAF’s readiness for modern warfare. By flying in a Rafale from Ambala, President Murmu paid tribute to the air warriors who defend the nation’s skies and reinforced India’s confidence in its defense capabilities.Rafale: The Jewel of India’s Air FleetManufactured by Dassault Aviation of France, the Rafale is a 4.5-generation multirole combat aircraft capable of performing air supremacy, reconnaissance, and ground attack missions with unmatched agility. The aircraft’s induction has been a game-changer for India’s air combat capabilities. With a top speed of 2,223 km/h and advanced weaponry, including the Meteor air-to-air missile and Scalp cruise missile, Rafales are designed to deliver strategic precision and power. President Murmu’s flight not only showcased the technological prowess of the Indian Air Force but also highlighted India’s evolving defense partnerships and modernization drive. Her sortie symbolized national pride in the Rafale fleet, a symbol of India’s readiness for the future of aerial warfare.A Continuing Presidential LegacyPresident Droupadi Murmu’s Rafale sortie continues a proud tradition of India’s Presidents engaging closely with the armed forces. Before her, former Presidents Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil had flown in Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft from Lohegaon Airbase in Pune. Murmu herself had taken her first fighter jet flight on April 8, 2023, in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam, making her the third Indian president and only the second woman head of state to experience a fighter sortie. These gestures may seem symbolic, but they carry immense significance. They bridge the gap between the country’s highest constitutional authority and its defenders, reminding every citizen that the leadership stands shoulder to shoulder with those who guard India’s sovereignty.A Symbol of India’s Rising StrengthThe image of President Murmu seated inside the Rafale cockpit, calm, set, and smiling, will remain etched in India’s defense history. It represents India’s growing air power, women’s leadership in governance, and the nation’s technological advancement. Her sortie in the Rafale serves as a symbol of continuity, linking India’s traditional presidential engagement with the armed forces to a new era of military modernization and self-reliance.  She reminded the world that India’s leadership doesn’t merely command from above but stands alongside its defenders, sharing their pride, courage, and purpose. As the Rafale soared above Ambala, carrying the President of India, it symbolized the soaring spirit of a nation determined to protect, progress, and prevail.

30 Oct 2025
Good News

C.P. Radhakrishnan Elected as India’s 17th Vice-President: A Journey of Service, Discipline, and Dedication

On September 9, 2025, C.P. Radhakrishnan was elected as the 17th Vice-President of India with a comfortable margin of 152 votes. Representing the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), he secured 452 first preferential votes, while the opposition’s joint candidate, Justice B. Sudershan Reddy, received 300 votes. Out of the total 781 eligible electors in both Houses of Parliament, 767 cast their votes, with a turnout of 98.2%. Fifteen votes were declared invalid, and 14 MPs abstained from voting. The results were announced by Rajya Sabha Secretary General P.C. Mody, the Returning Officer for the election. Who is C.P. Radhakrishnan?Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, born on October 20, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, has lived a life rooted in discipline, simplicity, and service. The son of C.K. Ponnusamy and K. Janaki, Radhakrishnan’s formative years were influenced by traditional values and a strong sense of community responsibility. Academically, he pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from V.O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi, and was also a college-level table tennis champion, reflecting his early balance of academics and sports. His political journey began at the young age of 16 when he became associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. This early involvement gave him an ideological foundation that shaped his long career in politics.A Long Career in PoliticsRadhakrishnan has been a two-time Member of Parliament from Coimbatore, first elected in 1998 and again in 1999. He was also the President of the BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit from 2003 to 2006, where he worked to expand the party’s base in a state dominated by Dravidian parties. His reputation as a disciplined, soft-spoken yet firm leader earned him respect across party lines. Over the years, he has been entrusted with sensitive assignments and organizational responsibilities within the BJP.Before being elected Vice-President, Radhakrishnan served as the Governor of Jharkhand (Feb 2023 – July 2024) and later as the Governor of Maharashtra (July 2024 – September 2025). As Governor, he emphasized good governance, transparency, and people-centric policies. His tenure was marked by close interaction with the public, students, and grassroots organizations, earning him recognition as an approachable leader who valued dialogue. Following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice-President, the BJP, under national president J.P. Nadda, announced Radhakrishnan’s candidature on August 17, 2025.The Role of the Vice-PresidentThe Vice-President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country, after the President. As per Article 66 of the Constitution, the Vice-President is elected indirectly by members of both Houses of Parliament through a system of proportional representation by single transferable vote. The Vice-President also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, playing a crucial role in maintaining order, ensuring fair debate, and upholding parliamentary decorum. Additionally, the Vice-President is the Chancellor of Panjab University, University of Delhi, and Pondicherry University, and the Visitor of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication. The office-holder also serves as the President of the Indian Institute of Public Administration.A Leader Who Rose from the GrassrootsRadhakrishnan’s story connects with ordinary Indians because of his grassroots journey. From being the son of a humble family in Tiruppur to becoming the second-highest constitutional authority of India, his path shows discipline, dedication, and perseverance. His association with the RSS and BJP since his teenage years highlights his long commitment to public service. At a time when India is striving to balance tradition and modernity, Radhakrishnan’s election brings a leader with deep ideological roots and administrative experience to a key constitutional office. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he will play a crucial role in bridging gaps between ruling and opposition parties, ensuring smooth parliamentary proceedings. His track record as Governor shows his ability to listen and mediate, skills that are essential in presiding over a House often marked by heated debates. For Tamil Nadu and southern India, his elevation is also symbolic, reflecting the growing importance of regional representation in national politics.A New Chapter in Indian DemocracyC.P. Radhakrishnan’s election as the 17th Vice-President of India is not just a political development; it is a continuation of his lifelong journey of service. As he assumes office, expectations will be high for him to ensure dignity, fairness, and inclusivity in Parliament. For millions of Indians, his story is a reminder that leadership is not just about power; it is about humility, service, and the ability to unite diverse voices under the shared banner of democracy. 

10 Sep 2025
Good News

Weaving the Threads of Pride: Celebrating the 11th National Handloom Day in India

India is observing the 11th National Handloom Day on August 7, 2025, by honoring its weavers and celebrating the country’s incredible handloom heritage. The grand celebration is taking place at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, where the nation is coming together to appreciate the skill, artistry, and dedication of handloom workers. This year, India is saluting not just a traditional craft but a movement that is empowering women, boosting rural livelihoods, and promoting sustainability and self-reliance.Understanding Handloom: A Timeless Craft of IndiaHandloom refers to a traditional method of weaving cloth using a manually operated loom, without the use of electricity. It is one of the oldest forms of textile production in India and is deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. In handloom weaving, skilled artisans use their hands and feet to operate the loom, carefully interlacing threads to create intricate patterns and fabrics. Unlike machine-made textiles, handloom fabrics carry the weaver’s personal touch, regional identity, and craftsmanship. Each piece of handloom fabric often tells a story of a community, a tradition, or a heritage that has been passed down through generations. This eco-friendly and sustainable process supports rural livelihoods, especially for women, and helps preserve India’s diverse textile traditions.Reviving History: From Swadeshi to National PrideIndia is marking National Handloom Day every year on August 7 to remember the Swadeshi Movement launched on this day in 1905. The movement, which began at Town Hall, Kolkata, is inspiring people to choose indigenous products and supporting the idea of self-reliance. Since 2015, when the Government of India started this observance, National Handloom Day has become a platform to revive traditional weaving, honor weavers, and spread awareness about the importance of handloom in modern India.Celebration Highlights: What’s Happening on August 7The 11th National Handloom Day is bringing together weavers, designers, policymakers, and handloom lovers under one roof. Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu is gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh and MoS Shri Pabitra Margherita are also joining the celebration. Around 650 weavers from different parts of the country are attending the event. Along with them, foreign buyers, exporters, fashion designers, and senior government officials are joining in honoring the handloom community.Honouring Excellence and Celebrating CraftsmanshipAs part of the 11th National Handloom Day celebrations, several key events are taking place to honor the dedication and artistry of India’s weaving community. The Hon’ble President is conferring 5 Sant Kabir Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards to outstanding weavers for their lifelong contributions and remarkable craftsmanship. In recognition of the sector’s rich legacy, a beautifully curated coffee table book and an award catalogue are being released during the event.Adding elegance to the occasion, a grand fashion show is showcasing iconic weaves and textiles, thoughtfully designed by top Indian designers, highlighting the diverse traditions of handloom from across the country. In addition, the government is recognizing the best-performing Weavers' Service Centers for their impactful work in supporting artisans. To further uplift the community, beneficiary certificates under various handloom schemes are being distributed, ensuring continued support and empowerment for weavers across the nation.Week-Long Festivities: Taking Handloom to the MassesIn addition to the main function on August 7, the Ministry of Textiles is organizing a vibrant series of events from the 1st to the 8th of August 2025, aimed at celebrating and promoting the spirit of handloom across the nation. These events are bringing handloom closer to the people and creating new platforms for innovation, recognition, and global collaboration. The “Haat on Wheels” initiative is rolling out mobile outlets to bring handloom products directly to urban streets. Visitors are experiencing live loom demonstrations and admiring award-winning handloom samples on display. At the Craft Museum, a special exhibition is focusing on regenerative materials, highlighting the eco-conscious potential of traditional textiles. Meanwhile, the Handloom Haat at Janpath is hosting a sari exhibition-cum-sale, showcasing exquisite weaves from across India. In a unique tech-meets-tradition effort, IIT Delhi is conducting a Loom Hackathon to encourage innovation in handloom practices. Additionally, top performers in handloom exports are being recognized, further encouraging excellence in the sector. Together, these activities are beautifully celebrating the richness, resilience, and relevance of India’s timeless handloom tradition.Why Handloom Matters in Today’s IndiaIndia’s handloom sector is playing a vital role at the crossroads of culture, sustainability, and social empowerment. It is not only employing millions, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas, but also empowering women, with over 70% of the workforce comprising female artisans. This sector is preserving ancient weaving techniques and traditional designs while also adapting creatively to contemporary fashion demands. It is promoting eco-friendly, sustainable production methods with minimal use of power and resources, making it a key player in India’s green economy. Handloom work is also uplifting rural artisans by providing them with a stable livelihood and a sense of pride in their cultural identity. Through their creations, weavers are telling stories of their heritage, keeping traditions alive, and passing their skills on to future generations, ensuring that India’s textile legacy continues to thrive in a modern world. Weaving Pride into Every ThreadOn the 11th National Handloom Day, India is not just commemorating its past; it is shaping a more inclusive and creative future. By buying, gifting, and promoting handloom, every Indian is becoming a part of this cultural revolution. Let us all celebrate our artisans and ensure that their art keeps inspiring, keeps growing, and keeps weaving the story of India.

7 Aug 2025
Good News

This Young Man Cracked IIT but Didn’t Tell His Family as He Was Determined To Join the Military

Imagine one’s joy in clearing one of the toughest exams, the IIT entrance. However, cracking the IIT entrance didn’t appeal much to Gaurav Yadav as his dream was to join the military. Pursuing his dream, he appeared and cleared the NDA entrance twice, but didn’t make it through the interview rounds.  Yadav persisted and appeared again for the NDA examination which is a gateway for youngsters looking to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Once, the exam, interview, and medical tests are cleared, the candidate undergoes three years of rigorous training at the National Defence Academy. Yadav’s persistent efforts finally paved the way for a career in the military. The path was not easy as he struggled to handle the pressures of the arduous training, yet he managed to achieve this extraordinary feat. He received the President's Gold Medal during the NDA's Passing Out Parade on November 30. In addition, he commanded the parade, an honor he never anticipated. Yadav’s brother works for the Indian Army. With the news of Gaurav’s induction in the Navy, his parents couldn't be more elated. Yadav and the other cadets are about to begin their final year of pre-commissioning training. In Uttarakhand, at the Indian Military Academy, those who desire to join the Army will receive their training. The cadets desirous of joining the Navy and Airforce will receive their training in the Indian Naval Academy in Kerala and the Air Force Academy in Telangana respectively.

5 Dec 2022
Good News

‘Presidential Colours’ For Indian Navy

The submarine arm of the Indian Navy was awarded the Presidential Colours on Friday by President Ram Nath Kovind at Eastern Naval Command (ENC) in Vishakapatnam. The Navy is celebrating 2017 as the ‘Year of the Submarine.’ The President was given a 21-gun salute upon his arrival at the ENC headquarters. He inspected a guard of honour at the INS Circars parade ground. The President is also Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. In his speech, he showered praise on the submarine arm for carrying out their professional responsibility with great skill and grave risk and making the nation proud by its contribution to national security. The occasion was also attended by Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba and Vice-Admiral Karambir Singh, among other senior officers. After presenting the Colour, he acknowledged the services of the naval officers and other personnel and said that the Navy’s submarine arm was playing a major role not only in safeguarding national security but also has a hand in nation-building by guarding trade routes. He congratulated the officers and men of the submarine arm and informed that Indian Navy submarines have had major operational achievements – in the 1971 War, during Operation Vijay in 1999  and then Operation Parakram, 2002.

9 Dec 2017
Good News

India’s Vice President election scheduled on August 5, 2017

As the tenure of the current Indian Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari will come to an end on August 10, fresh elections are announced to be held on August 5. As per Election Commission, the notification for the same will be officially issued on July 4. The deadline for filing nominations for the post is July 18. The deadline for the withdrawal of candidatures is July 21. The counting will be conducted on August 5. As per the law, the notification for the election of Vice President’s post must be issued on or around the 60th day before the termination of the current Vice President’s tenure. Also, the Vice Presidential election must be held well before the completion of current incumbent’s tenure. The Vice President is elected by the Electoral College which comprises of members from both the House of Parliaments. There are currently 233 Rajya Sabha, 543 Lok Sabha members and two nominated members in the Electoral College. The nominated members from both the houses are allowed to participate in the election. Indian President Pranab Mukherjee’s term will end on July 24 and the elections for the Presidential post is scheduled for July 17.

29 Jun 2017
Good News

Positive Reads

Celebrating the Noble Profession of Teachers on Teachers Day

“Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber and future of an individual. If people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honor for me” These words uttered by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam signify the profound influence that teachers have in our lives. In India, 5 September is celebrated as Teachers Day to acknowledge the immense contribution of teachers towards mankind because, in the process of teaching, they actually shape and mould a child to become responsible and fruitful individuals that go on to build a nation. History of Teachers Day September 5 is the birth anniversary of India’s second President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was also a great philosopher, statesman and a  renowned teacher who believed that teachers should be the best minds in the country. In 1962, when he became the second President of India, his doting students wanted to celebrate his birthday on 5 September as ‘Radhakrishnan’s Day’. However, Dr. Radhakrishnan insisted that the day be celebrated instead as ‘Teachers Day.’ Since then, 5 September is celebrated as Teachers Day throughout India. Teachers Day Celebrations Teachers Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor in our country. Students begin preparations days in advance to cheer and honour their teachers on this day. Cultural programmes are held in educational institutions where students perform skits, dance and sing for their teachers to make them feel special. Some schools and colleges award their outstanding teachers on this day. Sometimes, teachers are also made to participate in games and other activities hosted by the students while at other times, students themselves get into the shoes of teachers to experience the responsibility of teaching. There is no doubt that teachers have an important and tough job to do as they need to be patient, persuasive, caring and empathetic towards their students so that they are shaped into responsible, productive and successful citizens. Therefore, teachers deserve all due respect and honour for taking up this noble profession and this day gives an opportunity to thank them for their efforts and dedication towards their students. It is said that if there were no teachers, all other professions would not exist. Let us make this day special for our teachers. Happy Teachers Day! Image Source: Tentaran

4 Sep 2019
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