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India to Host 28th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in 2026

India is set to host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in January 2026. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced this during the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Guernsey. The conference will focus on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media into parliamentary processes, reflecting India’s commitment to technological advancement and modern governance.

Background of CSPOC

Established in 1969 by Lucien Lamoureux, then Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, CSPOC serves as a platform for Speakers and Presiding Officers from Commonwealth parliaments to promote impartiality, fairness, and the development of parliamentary democracy. The conference convenes biennially, with Canada providing the secretariat. Notably, CSPOC operates independently, without formal ties to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association or the Commonwealth Secretariat.

India’s Historical Engagement with CSPOC

India has previously hosted CSPOC conferences in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to parliamentary dialogue within the Commonwealth. The upcoming 2026 conference presents an opportunity for India to showcase its rich cultural heritage alongside its advancements in technology and infrastructure.

Focus on Technological Integration

The 2026 conference will emphasize the application of AI and social media in parliamentary functions. This focus aligns with India’s recent initiatives, such as the Lok Sabha’s adoption of AI and machine learning technologies to enhance accessibility and provide regional language translations for Members of Parliament.

Addressing Global Challenges

Speaker Om Birla highlighted the role of parliaments in addressing global issues like climate change, terrorism, and cybercrime. He emphasized the need for inclusive and transparent parliamentary practices and the importance of dialogue among parliamentary leaders to tackle shared challenges. The conference aims to foster cooperation among member countries to collectively work towards sustainable development and good governance.

Significance of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’

Embracing the concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the whole world is one family,” Birla called for international collaboration to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and malnutrition. This philosophy underscores India’s approach to fostering global unity and collective progress.

Future Implications

By hosting the 28th CSPOC, India reinforces its role as a leader in integrating technology with governance. The conference is expected to influence future parliamentary practices across the Commonwealth, promoting modernization and improved policy-making through the adoption of AI and social media tools.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in News India to host the 28th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CSPOC) in 2026, announced by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, focusing on AI and social media in parliamentary processes.
Last Hosted by India 2010
Previous Hosting Years 1970-71, 1986, and 2010
Establishment of CSPOC 1969, by Lucien Lamoureux, Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada
Frequency of CSPOC Conferences Biennially
CSPOC Secretariat Canada
Themes for 2026 AI integration, social media in parliamentary processes
India’s Parliamentary Initiative Lok Sabha’s adoption of AI for translations and accessibility
Philosophy Highlighted “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – The world is one family
Key Global Challenges Addressed Climate change, terrorism, cybercrime, and inequality

India Unveils ‘Utkash’ as Second Multi-Purpose Vessel

On January 13, 2025, the second of two Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) built by M/s L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy was launched at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Chennai. The event was graced by Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy and L&T Shipyard. The vessel, named ‘Utkarsh’, signifies a leap forward in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and aligns with the country’s broader vision of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Key Details

  • Launch Event: Held on January 13, 2025, at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Chennai.
  • Vessel Name: ‘Utkarsh’, meaning “Superior in Conduct,” reflecting the vessel’s multi-dimensional role.

Key Figures

  • Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary, who attended the event.
  • VAdm B Sivakumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition.
  • Shri Jayant Damodar Patil, Advisor to CMD.
  • Shri Arun Ramchandani, Head, M/s L&T PES.
  • Other senior officers from the Indian Navy and M/s L&T Shipyard.
  • Launch Ceremony: In keeping with maritime traditions, the ship was launched by Dr. Smt Sushmita Misra Singh, spouse of Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary.

Features of ‘Utkarsh’ and the ulti-Purpose Vessel

Design and Dimensions

  • Length: 106 meters.
  • Maximum speed: 15 knots.

Capabilities

  • Towing ships.
  • Launching and recovering various targets.
  • Operating unmanned autonomous vehicles.
  • Acting as a trial platform for various indigenous weapons and sensors under development.
  • Indigenous Shipbuilding: This project is a significant milestone for the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding efforts, furthering the government’s vision for a self-reliant defense ecosystem under Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative.

Background

Contract Details

  • The contract for the two Multi-Purpose Vessels was signed on March 25, 2022, between the Ministry of Defence and M/s L&T Shipyard.
  • The first MPV was launched earlier, and the successful launch of ‘Utkarsh’ marks another key step toward enhancing India’s maritime capabilities.

Strategic Importance

  • Supporting Indigenous Defense Initiatives: The vessel is a testament to the growing capability of Indian shipyards, with the support of the government’s emphasis on defense self-sufficiency.
  • Alignment with National Goals: The project reflects the Government of India’s broader defense strategy, focusing on expanding domestic manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Unveils ‘Utkash’ as Second Multi-Purpose Vessel
Location L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Chennai
Vessel Name ‘Utkarsh’ (meaning “Superior in Conduct”)
Key Attendees Rajesh Kumar Singh (Defence Secretary), VAdm B Sivakumar, Shri Jayant Patil
Shipyard M/s L&T Shipyard
Vessel Dimensions Length: 106 meters, Speed: 15 knots
Key Capabilities Towing ships, launching/recovering targets, operating unmanned vehicles, testing indigenous weapons
Indigenous Contribution Aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat & Make in India initiatives
Significance Enhances India’s maritime defense capabilities and supports indigenous shipbuilding efforts

VP Dhankhar Releases Book on Parliament’s Rights and Privileges

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched Dr. K.S. Chauhan’s book “Parliament: Powers, Functions & Privileges; A Comparative Constitutional Perspective”. During the event, Dhankhar lauded the author’s dedication and hard work in exploring the intricate role of Parliament in a democracy. The book sheds light on Parliament’s functions, privileges, and its essential role in maintaining government accountability, with a special focus on how these elements influence the country’s democratic fabric.

Key Highlights from the Event

Vice-President Address

  • Praised Dr. Chauhan’s dedication to parliamentary law.
  • Emphasized that Parliament is the cornerstone of democracy, holding the executive accountable.
  • Stressed the need for a functional Parliament to uphold public trust and democratic values.

Main Points of the Book

  • Provides crucial insights into Parliament’s role and responsibilities, particularly in government oversight.
  • Discusses the importance of dialogue, debate, and deliberation in ensuring accountability.
  • Highlights the significance of parliamentary privileges and the need for responsible use by MPs.

Remarks from Dignitaries

  • Rajya Sabha Secretary General P.C. Mody and Attorney General of India also praised Dr. Chauhan’s work.
  • The book was described as a valuable resource for policymakers, law students, and parliamentarians.

Dhankhar’s Reflections

  • He reflected on his long association with Dr. Chauhan, commending his years of dedication to the study of Parliament’s workings.
  • Described the book as an essential guide to understanding the complexities of Parliament and its functions.

Importance of the Book

  • Serves as a key resource for understanding the powers and privileges of Parliament.
  • Aids in appreciating the role of Parliament in maintaining government accountability.
  • Valuable for anyone involved in policymaking, law, or parliamentary functions.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? VP Dhankhar Releases Book on Parliament’s Rights and Privileges
Vice President’s Address – Praised Dr. Chauhan’s work in parliamentary law
– Emphasized Parliament’s role in democracy and accountability
Book Title “Parliament: Powers, Functions & Privileges; A Comparative Constitutional Perspective”
Main Book Themes – Role of Parliament in accountability
– Parliamentary privileges and responsible use
– Importance of dialogue, debate, and deliberation
Remarks from Dignitaries P.C. Mody (Rajya Sabha Secretary General) and Attorney General praised Dr. Chauhan’s work
Vice President’s Reflections Highlighted long association with Dr. Chauhan and commended his dedication
Target Audience Policymakers, law students, parliamentarians, and anyone interested in parliamentary studies

Bharat Cleantech Platform Boosts India’s Green Goals

On January 11, 2025, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, unveiled the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform at the Bharat Climate Forum 2025 in New Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance India’s cleantech value chains in sectors such as solar, wind, hydrogen, and battery storage, steering the nation towards its sustainability objectives.

Emphasis on Innovation and Self-Reliance

During his address, Shri Goyal highlighted that while Product Linked Incentives (PLIs) and subsidies have been instrumental in initiating growth in the clean energy sector, they may impede long-term development. He urged the industry to strive for self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on government support, and to focus on innovation and scaling up manufacturing capabilities.

Objectives of the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform

The platform is designed to:

  • Foster collaboration and co-innovation among Indian firms.
  • Provide a platform for financing opportunities.
  • Facilitate the exchange of ideas, technologies, and resources.

By leveraging this initiative, India aims to position itself as a compelling global business case in sustainability and cleantech.

Progress Towards Clean Energy Targets

India has demonstrated significant commitment to renewable energy:

  • Achieved 200 GW of clean energy capacity, eight years ahead of the 2030 target.
  • Aims to reach 500 GW by 2030.
  • Operates the world’s largest interconnected energy grid.

These milestones reflect the nation’s proactive approach to fulfilling its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Gujarat’s Role in Solar Energy Adoption

Shri Goyal acknowledged Gujarat as a pioneer in adopting solar power in India. He attributed the affordability of solar energy to the government’s emphasis on transparency, fair competition, and large-scale implementation, guided by the “3S strategy” of speed, scale, and skill.

Future Outlook

The Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s cleantech industry. By encouraging innovation and collaboration, it aligns with the government’s broader vision of enhancing the renewable energy sector and contributing to global climate goals.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in News Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform was launched by Union Minister Piyush Goyal during the Bharat Climate Forum 2025 in New Delhi to enhance clean energy value chains in solar, wind, hydrogen, and battery storage.
Launched By Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry.
Event Bharat Climate Forum 2025, New Delhi.
Objective To strengthen India’s cleantech manufacturing in solar, wind, hydrogen, and battery storage; promote innovation, self-reliance, and scaling up of production.
Renewable Energy Target 500 GW clean energy capacity by 2030.
India’s Current Achievement 200 GW of clean energy capacity achieved, eight years ahead of the 2030 target.
Pioneering State in Solar Energy Gujarat, recognized for its leadership in solar power adoption.
Platform Goals Collaboration, co-innovation, financing opportunities, and promoting global leadership in cleantech manufacturing.
Global Commitments Aligns with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Related Strategy Emphasis on the “3S Strategy” – Speed, Scale, and Skill.

India’s GDP Growth Projected to Reach 6.7% in FY25

India’s GDP growth is projected to improve to 6.7% in the fiscal year 2025 (FY25), according to a CRISIL Intelligence report. This anticipated growth follows a moderation to 6.4% in the current fiscal year, down from 8.2% in the previous year.

Inflation Trends and Monetary Policy

The report highlights a sustained decline in food inflation, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation cooling to 5.2% in December from 5.5% in November. Food inflation eased to 8.4% from 9%, while non-food inflation remained stable at 3.1%. This trend is expected to create room for a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the coming months.

Industrial Production and Investment

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose to 5.2% in November, up from 3.7% in October, driven by strong performance in investment goods and consumer durables, aided by a low base effect. CRISIL’s analysis indicates that industrial capital expenditure (capex) will rise to ₹6.5 lakh crore annually on average between fiscals 2024 and 2028, up from ₹3.9 lakh crore in the preceding five fiscals.

Agricultural Outlook and Rural Consumption

Higher reservoir levels are expected to boost rabi crop output, enhancing farm incomes and rural consumption. Increased agricultural production is also likely to alleviate pressure on food inflation during the remainder of the current fiscal, potentially enhancing discretionary consumption.

Global Risks and Economic Outlook

Despite the positive outlook, the Indian government’s recent report maintains a growth forecast of 6.5% to 7% for the current fiscal year, down from 8.2% the previous year, citing heightened geopolitical risks. The report warns that geopolitical conflicts and uncertainties in major economies’ trade policies pose significant risks to India’s economic growth.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in News CRISIL projected India’s GDP growth at 6.7% for FY25, up from 6.4% in FY24.
Drivers of Growth – Cooling inflation (CPI inflation expected at 5.2%).
– Industrial capital expenditure projected at ₹6.5 lakh crore annually (FY24-FY28).
– Higher rabi crop output boosting rural incomes and consumption.
Current GDP Growth Rate Estimated at 6.4% for FY24.
Previous GDP Growth Rate Stood at 8.2% in FY23.
Inflation Trends CPI inflation expected to decline further, with food inflation easing from 9% to 8.4%.
Industrial Production IIP growth at 5.2% in November, boosted by investment goods and consumer durables.
Global Risks Geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainties flagged as challenges to growth.
Static Information – CRISIL: Indian credit rating agency established in 1987.
– Headquarters: Mumbai, India.
– Parent Company: S&P Global.

Tripura Woman Embraces Tamil Tradition in Thalai Pongal Celebration

Thalai Pongal, the first day of the Tamil month, is a significant harvest festival celebrated with fervor across Tamil Nadu. On January 14, 2025, Supriya, a physician from Tripura, and her husband, Thileepan from Sathankulam in Thoothukudi district, celebrated the festival in a traditional Tamil manner. Supriya, who is originally from Tripura, shared how the Pongal festival in her hometown is celebrated differently, where it is known as “Hangrai”. Her participation in this celebration highlighted the cultural diversity and significance of Pongal in uniting people from different regions and communities. This celebration also included an array of cultural performances and rituals, with a focus on the harvest and agricultural prosperity.

Key Points of the Thalai Pongal Celebrations

Supriya’s Celebration

  • Supriya, a doctor from Tripura, married to Thileepan of Sathankulam, celebrated Pongal as “Pongalo Pongal” with family and friends.
  • Supriya emphasized the difference between Pongal (known as Hangrai in Tripura) and its Tamil version.

Cultural Significance

  • Thalai Pongal is celebrated on the first day of the Tamil month, marking the beginning of the harvest season.
  • Pongal is celebrated with traditional rituals, music, dance, and community feasts.

Tourism and Cultural Exchange

  • The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TNTDC) organized a grand celebration in Nanjikottai village near Thanjavur, attracting over 75 tourists from Spain, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and the United States.
  • Tourists were welcomed with traditional music and served 25 varieties of food on banana leaves in a coconut grove.

Traditional Activities

  • Traditional activities like Jallikattu, bullock cart racing, and displays of native animals such as bulls and fighting goats were enjoyed by the visitors.
  • Tourists participated in local games such as Kabaddi, Silambam, and Uri Aitthal, adding to the authenticity of the celebration.
  • The tourists were also introduced to Tamil rural handicrafts like pottery making, bamboo weaving, and henna application.

Cultural Performances

  • Traditional Tamil dance performances such as Karakattam, Kalayattam, and Naiyandi Melam were performed in honor of the guests.
  • The performances depicted various folk traditions, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the Pongal celebrations.

Pongal Rituals

  • In Thoothukudi, people performed the traditional Pongal rituals by placing pots of milk on stoves in front of their houses and worshipped the Sun God as the milk boiled over.
  • The festival was celebrated across various localities, including Ponnakaram Junction and Shanmugapuram, where people prayed for agricultural prosperity.

Community Participation

  • The festival saw active participation from all walks of life, including Christians, who attended a special mass at St. Susaiyappar Church in Kurushpura, blending local traditions with religious observances.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Tripura Woman Embraces Tamil Tradition in Thalai Pongal Celebration
Celebrants Supriya (from Tripura) and Thileepan (from Sathankulam, Thoothukudi)
Pongal Name in Tripura Known as “Hangrai” in Tripura
Cultural Significance Marks the first day of the Tamil month and the beginning of the harvest
Tourist Involvement Over 75 tourists from Spain, France, Netherlands, Belgium, England, USA
Traditional Food 25 varieties of food served on banana leaves
Cultural Performances Naiyandi Melam, Karakattam, Kavadiyattam, Silambam, and more
Traditional Activities Jallikattu, bullock cart racing, Kabaddi, Silambam, Uri Aitthal
Rural Crafts Pottery making, bamboo weaving, henna application
Pongal Rituals Milk boiled in Pongal pots, worship of Sun God
Community Participation Inclusive of all communities, including Christians at St. Susaiyappar Church
Venue Nanjikottai village near Thanjavur, Thoothukudi

Top-10 Must-Visit Places to Explore Near Prayagraj, Check the Names

The Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is a grand spiritual event that attracts millions of pilgrims from across the world. While the holy baths at Sangam are the main highlight, the area around Prayagraj offers many historical, cultural and spiritual sites to explore. From ancient temples to magnificent forts, these places provide a perfect blend of peace and history for visitors during this festival. In this article, we will explore the top-10 places near Prayagraj.

Top-10 Must-Visit to Explore Near Prayagraj

Explore the must-visit places near Prayagraj, a city rich in spirituality, history and culture. From the sacred confluence at Sangam to iconic landmarks like Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences, especially during the vibrant Kumbh Mela festival.

S. No. Place State Kilometers away from Prayagraj 
1. Shringverpur Uttar Pradesh 40 km
2. Kaushambi Uttar Pradesh 60 km
3. Kara Uttar Pradesh 69 km
4. Mirzapur Uttar Pradesh 89 km
5. Vidhyanchal Uttar Pradesh 90 km
6. Varanasi Uttar Pradesh 120 km
7. Chitrakoot Madhya Pradesh 120 km
8. Sarnath Uttar Pradesh 130 km
9. Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh 165 km
10. Kushinagar Uttar Pradesh 260 km

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi, located 120 km from Prayagraj, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the world’s most ancient cities. Famous for its sacred ghats along the Ganges, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the vibrant Ganga Aarti, the city is a spiritual hub and a must-see destination for cultural and religious enthusiasts.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya, 165 km from Prayagraj, is deeply connected to Lord Rama’s life as his birthplace. Home to the magnificent Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and the revered Hanuman Garhi, the city attracts pilgrims year-round, especially during festive occasions, offering a profound connection to Hindu traditions.

Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Chitrakoot, around 120 km from Prayagraj, is a tranquil town of immense mythological significance. It is believed to be the site of Lord Rama’s exile. Key landmarks include the sacred Kamadgiri Hill and Bharat Milap temple, providing visitors with a sense of people and divine connection.

Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh

Mirzapur, roughly 89 km from Prayagraj, is nestled between the Vindhya hills and the Ganges River. This serene location boasts famous temples like Ashtbhuja Temple and Tarkeshwar Nath Temple. The city’s natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere make it an ideal gateway.

Vindhyanchal, Uttar Pradesh

Vindhyanchal, 90 km from Prayagraj, is a revered site among devotees of Goddess Vidhyavasini. Known for its sacred Shakti Peeth, the temple draws throngs of worshippers during Navratri festivals, offering a unique blend of devotion and cultural vibrancy.

Shringverpur, Uttar Pradesh

Shringverpur, located 40 km from Prayagraj, is an ancient town steeped in history and mythology. As the capital of Nishadraj Guha, it is famously linked to Lord Rama’s journey in exile. The Sringi Rishi Temple adds to its historical and spiritual charm.

Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh

Kausambhi, about 60 km from Prayagraj, was once the capital of the Vatsa Kingdom. Rich in Buddhist heritage, it is known for its ancient ruins and stupas. Positioned along the Yamuna River, this city is a treasure trove of historical and cultural experience.

Kara, Uttar Pradesh

Kara, 69 km from Prayagraj, is best known for the Kara Devi Temple, which attracts numerous pilgrims seeking blessings. This historic town offers a mix of religious significance and architectural grandeur, making it an intriguing destination for visitors.

Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Bodh Gaya, situated 370 km from Prayagraj, holds global significance as the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Its Mahabodhi Temple, serene environment, and historical importance make it a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Sarnatha, 130 km from Prayagraj, near Varanasi, is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Renowned for its Dhamek Stupa and the Lion Capital of Ashoka, this sacred location marks the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon, drawing history and spirituality enthusiasts alike.

Hatti Tribes Celebrate Boda Tyohar in Trans-Giri

The Boda Tyohar festival, also known as Magho ko Tyohar, is the largest annual celebration for the Hatti tribes of Himachal Pradesh’s Trans-Giri region. Celebrated by over three lakh members of the Hatti community, this month-long festival marks the end of the ‘Magha’ month and is characterized by unique cultural practices, rituals, and a strong sense of community unity. With a deep-rooted tradition, Boda Tyohar holds immense cultural significance and is a vibrant showcase of Hatti customs and beliefs.

Key Points of the Boda Tyohar Festival

Festival Duration

  • The festival lasts for a month, beginning on Posh Dwadashi and concluding at the end of the ‘Magha’ month.
  • It is celebrated by the Hatti tribes residing in the Trans-Giri region.

Distinct Phases of the Festival

Bodhto (First Day)

  • The community prepares traditional dishes such as Pude, Bedoli, Patanday, Dhroti, and Gudoli.
  • These dishes are offered to deities as part of the sacred rituals.

Bhatioj (Second Day)

  • The festivities begin at the communal courtyard known as ‘Sanjha Angan’, traditionally owned by the village head (‘Siyana’).
  • Temples of ‘Kul Devtas’ like Shirgul Maharaj, Bijat Maharaj, Mahasu Maharaj, and Thari Devi are visited.
  • Villagers gather for a communal meal and engage in singing and dancing into the early hours.
  • Women play a central role in the cultural activities, symbolizing their importance in Hatti society.

Saje Ka Duna

  • The next day, men visit their married sisters with gifts of meat, jaggery, and wheat flour.
  • Married women participate in the community’s festivities, joining the Geet, a musical celebration with newly composed songs by Hatti composers.

Khoda Festival (Eighth Day)

  • The Khoda festival marks a high point of the celebrations, where a grand feast is hosted for friends and family.
  • The Boidoot celebrations follow, continuing until the conclusion of the Magha month.

Communal Dining

  • A central tradition during Boda Tyohar is communal dining, where every household invites relatives and other family members for a shared meal at least once during the month.
  • This practice fosters unity and reinforces the bond within the Hatti community.

Cultural Importance

  • The festival is a reflection of the Hatti community’s deep-rooted customs, with special emphasis on communal participation, ritualistic worship, music, dance, and feasting.
  • It promotes cultural continuity while strengthening the social fabric of the Hatti people.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Hatti Tribes Celebrate Boda Tyohar in Trans-Giri
Festival Duration Month-long, from Posh Dwadashi to the end of the ‘Magha’ month
Community Celebrated by the Hatti tribes of the Trans-Giri region, Himachal Pradesh
Key Phases 1. Bodhto – Preparation of traditional dishes, offerings to deities
2. Bhatioj – Communal meal, singing, and dancing at Sanjha Angan
3. Saje ka Duna – Men visit married sisters with gifts, women join Geet
4. Khoda Festival – Grand feast, followed by Boidoot celebrations
5. Communal Dining – Households invite family and relatives for a shared meal
Cultural Significance Emphasizes community unity, worship, music, dance, feasting, and family bonds
Highlight Women’s central role in festivities, symbolized through music and dance

ICC Players of the Month for December 2024 Announced

International Cricket Council (ICC) recognizes exceptional individual performances in international cricket by awarding the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month titles. For December 2024, these honors have been bestowed upon India’s Jasprit Bumrah and Australia’s Annabel Sutherland, acknowledging their stellar contributions on the global cricketing stage.

Why in the News?

The ICC announced the winners of the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month for December 2024: Jasprit Bumrah, India’s top-ranked Test bowler, and Annabel Sutherland, Australia’s star all-rounder. Both players showcased outstanding performances in their respective series, solidifying their dominance in international cricket.

Jasprit Bumrah: A Memorable December

Destructive Bowling in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Bumrah’s dominance with the ball was a defining feature of India’s Test series against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Across three Tests in December, Bumrah claimed 22 wickets at an impressive average of 14.22. Key highlights of his performances included:

  • Adelaide Test: Bumrah starred with figures of 4/61, dismantling the Australian batting lineup.
  • Brisbane Test: A fearsome spell saw him pick 6/76 in the first innings and 3/18 in the second.
  • Boxing Day Test in Melbourne: Bumrah’s nine-wicket haul, including 5/57 in the second innings, etched his name in the record books as he achieved the highest-ever rating points tally by an Indian bowler.

Recognition and Accolades

This is Bumrah’s second ICC Men’s Player of the Month award. He edged out fellow nominees Pat Cummins and Dane Paterson to claim the December honor. Bumrah also expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is always humbling to be chosen for individual accolades, and it’s an honor to perform for my country in one of the most closely fought Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.”

Nominations for ICC Awards 2024

Bumrah is also in contention for two prestigious ICC awards:

  • ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year
  • Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year

Annabel Sutherland: Dominating with Bat and Ball

All-Round Excellence

Annabel Sutherland showcased her prowess as an all-rounder in Australia’s ODI series against India and New Zealand. In December, she amassed 269 runs at an average of 67.25 and claimed nine wickets, earning two Player of the Series accolades.

Key Performances

  • Against India: Sutherland claimed 4/39 in the second ODI in Brisbane and followed it up with a stunning 110 off 98 balls in the series finale.
  • Against New Zealand: Her 105 runs in 81 balls secured a 65-run victory in the opening match. She added another 42 runs and took three wickets in the second match, leading Australia to back-to-back ODI series sweeps.

Global Recognition

This is Sutherland’s second ICC Women’s Player of the Month award. She triumphed over nominees Smriti Mandhana and Nonkululeko Mlaba to claim the title. Sutherland remarked, “December was a great month for us, and it was nice to contribute to the team’s success.”

Nominations for ICC Awards 2024

Sutherland is also a strong contender for the following awards:

  • ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year
  • Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year

Gaan-Ngai 2025: A Celebration of Unity and Tradition in Manipur

The Gaan-Ngai festival, the largest cultural and religious post-harvest celebration of the Zeliangrong community, commenced with grand celebrations on January 12, 2025, in various regions of Manipur. Known for its vibrant cultural performances and traditional rituals, Gaan-Ngai brings together the people in a spirit of unity and celebration. The festival, lasting five days, marks the transition from the old year to the new, with a focus on peace, prosperity, and community healing.

Background

  • Community: Celebrated by the Zeliangrong people, consisting of the Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Puimei tribes.
  • Meaning of Name: “Gaan-Ngai” translates to “festival of the winter season” (Gaan = winter, Ngai = festival).
  • Agricultural Context: Gaan-Ngai is a post-harvest festival, marking the end of agricultural activities when granaries are full, and the land is dry.

2025 Celebrations

  • Date and Location: The festival began on January 12, 2025, and was celebrated in various regions, including Sagolband Ramji Kabui Village in Imphal West.
  • Chief Minister’s Participation: Chief Minister N Biren Singh attended the state-level celebration and conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the people of Manipur.

Key Events

  • Cultural Performances: The event featured mesmerizing cultural displays, with active participation from men, women, and youth.
  • Cultural Significance: The festival is a time to pay homage to ancestors through sacred rituals and prayers for the well-being of the community.
  • Day 1 Rituals: The first day involves sacred fire rituals, homage to ancestors, and prayers for the community’s health. Ancestor graves are adorned with flowers.
  • Subsequent Days (2-5): The next four days are marked by festive activities, including:
  • Traditional dance and music performances by men and women in their vibrant attire.
  • Community feasts where people gather to celebrate together.
  • Gift exchanges among family and friends.
  • Inclusion of Sports Activities: In recent years, sports like long jump and shot put have been incorporated into the festival celebrations.
  • Cultural Symbolism: Gang Ngai signifies communal unity, peace, love, and prosperity, bringing the Kabui Nagas together in joy and celebration.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Gaan-Ngai 2025: A Celebration of Unity and Tradition in Manipur
Community Celebrated by the Zeliangrong people (Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei, Puimei tribes).
Meaning of Name “Gaan-Ngai” translates to “festival of the winter season” (Gaan = winter, Ngai = festival).
Agricultural Context A post-harvest festival, marking the end of agricultural activities when granaries are full.
2025 Celebrations Began on January 12, 2025, in various regions, including Sagolband Ramji Kabui Village, Imphal West.
Chief Minister’s Participation N Biren Singh, CM of Manipur, attended the state-level celebration and extended his wishes.
Key Events Cultural performances, rituals, community bonding, and sports activities.
Day 1 Rituals Sacred fire rituals, homage to ancestors, and prayers for the community’s health. Ancestor graves adorned with flowers.
Subsequent Days (2-5) Dance and music performances, community feasts, gift exchanges.
Sports Activities Long jump and shot put included in recent celebrations.
Cultural Symbolism The festival symbolizes unity, peace, love, and prosperity within the community.

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