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States and Capitals – How Many States in India?

India, a vast South Asian nation and the world’s seventh-largest by land area, is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital. These states and territories are further segmented into districts. New Delhi, situated in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as India’s administrative, political, and cultural hub.

The states and capitals of India weave a rich and diverse tapestry, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage, traditions, and innovations. Exploring these regions offers a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient legacies with modern advancements, tradition with contemporary influence, and showcasing India’s remarkable unity in diversity.

States and Capitals

In 1956, India reorganized its states according to linguistic demographics. Today, the country consists of 28 states and 8 Union Territories, home to nearly 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities—Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune—are prominent. The Prime Minister has introduced a plan to develop 100 smart cities across the nation, with Indore being recognized as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Discover India’s dynamic urban landscape and its focus on modernization.

How many states in India?

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area and the 2nd most populated. The country is divided into states and union territories so that the government can function properly. Below is a list of all 28 states, their capitals and the year they were formed.

S.NO State Capital CM Governor
1 Andhra Pradesh Amaravati Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu S. Abdul Nazer
2 Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar Pema Khandu Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3 Assam Dispur Himanta Biswa Sarma Lakshman Prasad Acharya
4 Bihar Patna Nitish Kumar Arif Mohammed Khan
5 Chhattisgarh Raipur Vishnu Deo Sai Ramen Deka
6 Goa Panaji Pramod Sawant P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7 Gujarat Gandhinagar Bhupendra Patel Acharya Dev Vrat
8 Haryana Chandigarh Nayab Singh Saini Bandaru Dattatraya
9 Himachal Pradesh Shimla Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Shiv Pratap Shukla
10 Jharkhand Ranchi Hemant Soren Santosh Kumar Gangwar
11 Karnataka Bengaluru Siddaramaiah Thaawarchand Gehlot
12 Kerala Thiruvananthapuram Pinarayi Vijayan Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
13 Madhya Pradesh Bhopal Mohan Yadav Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14 Maharashtra Mumbai Devendra Fadnavis C.P. Radhakrishnan
15 Manipur Imphal N. Biren Singh
Ajay Kumar Bhalla
16 Meghalaya Shillong Conrad Kongkal Sangma
C H Vijayashankar
17 Mizoram Aizawl Lalduhoma General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.)
18 Nagaland Kohima Neiphiu Rio
La. Ganesan
19 Odisha Bhubaneswar Mohan Charan Majhi
Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati
20 Punjab Chandigarh Bhagwant Singh Mann Gulab Chand Kataria
21 Rajasthan Jaipur Bhajan Lal Sharma Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
22 Sikkim Gangtok PS Golay Om Prakash Mathur
23 Tamil Nadu Chennai M. K. Stalin R. N. Ravi
24 Telangana Hyderabad Anumula Revanth Reddy Jishnu Dev Varma
25 Tripura Agartala Dr. Manik Saha Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
26 Uttar Pradesh Lucknow Yogi Aditya Nath Anandiben Patel
27 Uttarakhand Dehradun Pushkar Singh Dhami Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28 West Bengal Kolkata Mamata Banerjee Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories of India and Their Capitals

India has 8 union territories that are managed by the central government. Some of them have their own legislative assemblies. Below is the of these union territories and their capitals:

S.NO Union Territories Capital CM Lt. Governor
1 Andaman and Nicobar Island Port Blair NA D K Joshi
2 Chandigarh Chandigarh NA Banwarilal Purohit
3 Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Daman NA Praful Patel
4 Delhi Delhi Rekha Gupta Vinai Kumar Saxena
5 Ladakh NA NA B. D. Mishra
6 Lakshadweep Kavaratti NA Praful Patel
7 Jammu and Kashmir NA Omar Abdullah Manoj Sinha
8 Puducherry Pondicherry N. Rangaswamy C. P. Radhakrishnan

Difference Between States and Union Territories

India is divided into states and Union Territories for administrative purposes. They are in different in how they are governed.

Basis of Difference States Union Territories
Head of Administration Governor Administrator or Lieutenant Governor
Government Type Elected by the People Managed by the central government
Powers Shares power with the central government. Controlled directly by the central government.

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No. States Language
1 Andhra Pradesh Telugu and Urdu
2 Arunachal Pradesh Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3 Assam Assamese
4 Bihar Hindi
5 Chhattisgarh Hindi
6 Goa Marathi Konkani
7 Gujarat Gujarati
8 Haryana Hindi
9 Himachal Pradesh Hindi and Pahari
10 Jharkhand Hindi
11 Karnataka Kannada
12 Kerala Malayalam
13 Madhya Pradesh Hindi
14 Maharashtra Marathi
15 Manipur Manipuri
16 Meghalaya Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17 Mizoram Mizo and English
18 Nagaland Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19 Odisha Oriya
20 Punjab Punjabi
21 Rajasthan Rajasthani and Hindi
22 Sikkim Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23 Tamil Nadu Tamil
24 Telangana Telugu
25 Tripura Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26 Uttar Pradesh Hindi
27 Uttarakhand Hindi
28 West Bengal Bengali

Some Key Facts About Indian States

Each state in India is unique and has something special. Here are some interesting facts about a few states:

  • Andhra Pradesh: Famous for spicy food and historical sites like Charminar.
  • Assam: Know for tea gardens and Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Bihar: A place with a rich history, home to Bodh Gaya and the ancient city of Pataliputra.
  • Goa: Popular for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
  • Kerala: Famous for its backwaters, Ayurveda treatments and lush green nature.
  • Maharashtra: Mumbai, the financial capital, is also home to Bollywood.
  • Himachal Pradesh: Known for stunning hill stations and adventure sports.
  • Tamil Nadu: Famous for classical dance forms and grand temples.

Key Facts About World Population Day 2025

Global Initiatives and Campaigns in 2025

Launch of New Population Policies

World Population Day 2025 marks a pivotal moment for nations to unveil significant population-focused policy strategies. A noteworthy example is Jamaica, which is officially launching its National Population and Sustainable Development Policy on July 11. This strategic document aligns Jamaica’s demographic goals with the nation’s broader sustainable development framework, as part of Vision 2030. In conjunction with the launch, Jamaica is also releasing the 2025 State of World Population Report, produced in collaboration with UNFPA, signaling strong government commitment to tackling demographic challenges and building a future grounded in resilience, equity, and inclusiveness.

High-Level Dialogues on Demographic Change

In China, World Population Day 2025 is marked by a high-profile dialogue on fertility and youth empowerment held in Shanghai. Hosted by UNFPA and national academic partners, this forum commemorates the 35th anniversary of the observance. The central theme, “Empowering young people in a world of declining fertility,” acknowledges the profound demographic shift occurring globally and especially in East Asia. China is experiencing record-low fertility rates, sparking national conversations about sustainable family support systems. The event convenes government officials, academia, civil society, and private sector leaders to explore inclusive solutions, ranging from family-friendly workplace policies to social investments for the next generation.

Regional Partnerships for Awareness

In the Pacific region, World Population Day 2025 is driving a narrative shift through initiatives led by UNFPA and the University of the South Pacific. Their panel discussion, themed “From Overpopulation to Reproductive Justice,” challenges traditional fears of overpopulation and re-centers the focus on individual reproductive rights. This regional event emphasizes the freedom to choose whether and when to have children, with youth, educators, and policymakers collaboratively promoting rights-based family planning.

In Pakistan, diverse stakeholders including government ministries, NGOs, and community groups conduct countrywide workshops and seminars. These gatherings emphasize youth-driven decision-making in areas like reproductive health and family planning education, particularly in rural areas. The collective action highlights Pakistan’s drive to localize global themes and address unique demographic needs.

Empowering Youth Campaigns

India, now the world’s most populous country with over 1.46 billion people, is using World Population Day to promote its youthful demographic as a national asset. Campaigns stress the idea of a demographic dividend, focusing on education, employment, and healthcare as essential investments to harness the potential of the country’s youth. NGO-led programs that develop youth skills and deliver health education are being celebrated across states as powerful case studies in building economic resilience through human capital.

Innovations in Population Data and Visualization

AI-Enhanced Population Counting

2025 is witnessing a technological transformation in how demographic data is gathered and analyzed. Researchers highlight a growing concern over the “quiet crisis” of incomplete census data, as participation rates drop. In response, countries are deploying AI-powered satellite imagery and building footprint mapping to enhance census accuracy, particularly in hard-to-reach or conflict-prone areas like the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These innovations, supported by organizations such as UNFPA and national statistical offices, are closing data gaps and supporting evidence-based policy decisions.

Interactive Demographic Dashboards

New tools such as the Wittgenstein Centre Human Capital Data Explorer 3.0 are revolutionizing how global populations are visualized. Updated in late 2024 and widely used during 2025, this online dashboard enables policymakers and researchers to simulate population trends to 2100, incorporating variables such as education levels, fertility rates, and migration. These projections make it easier to plan for long-term investments in education and infrastructure.

For example, visualizations show that global population surpassed 8.2 billion in 2025, a milestone that highlights the need for coordinated development strategies. Regional overlays also reveal hotspots of youth population density, aiding governments in focusing their youth empowerment initiatives.

Data Collection Goes Digital

More countries have adopted “digital-first” censuses, using mobile applications and online surveys to reach populations efficiently. These digital tools are not only cost-effective but also enable real-time anomaly detection through machine learning algorithms, allowing census teams to re-validate questionable data promptly. This proactive approach minimizes errors that traditionally would only be discovered years later. In 2025, governments and UN agencies are also promoting community-driven data initiatives such as gamified survey apps and open data portals, helping ensure that data is not only accurate but also transparent and engaging for citizens.

2025’s Record-Breaking Demographic Milestones

Global Population Highs

United Nations projections confirm that by mid-2025, the global population crossed 8.2 billion, up over 200 million since the milestone of 8 billion in 2022. While the growth rate has slowed to around 0.85% annually, the sheer scale of human population presents both opportunities and challenges. With most growth occurring in low- and middle-income countries, policymakers face new pressure to provide sustainable livelihoods, education, and healthcare to growing populations.

India Becomes the Most Populous Nation

A defining demographic shift of 2025 is India surpassing China to become the most populous country. With over 1.46 billion people, India now has the world’s largest human population, and importantly, a relatively young median age of 28 years. This transition is prompting policy shifts toward expanding vocational training, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing healthcare access to leverage the potential of this enormous working-age population.

Largest Youth Generation in History

The year 2025 marks the peak of a unique demographic phase: 1.8 billion young people aged 10–24 now live across the globe, representing the largest youth generation in history. This demographic bulge, especially prominent in Africa and South Asia, presents unprecedented possibilities for economic and social transformation. However, these opportunities hinge on investment in education, youth employment, and health services. This theme is central to World Population Day campaigns across the globe, emphasizing the need for governments to meet the aspirations of this generation.

Fertility and Aging Extremes

While youth populations grow in some regions, others face the opposite challenge. In 2025, countries like China and Japan report record-low fertility rates, with China seeing its births per woman drop to the lowest in its recorded history. At the same time, global life expectancy remains at near-peak levels, contributing to an aging world. The population aged 65 and older is at an all-time high. These parallel trends of aging and low fertility are spurring policy responses such as enhanced childcare, retirement system reforms, and work-life balance incentives.

Regional Highlights: Stories and Campaigns of Note

Caribbean – Jamaica’s New Strategy

Jamaica’s leadership in population policy is being recognized globally, thanks to the launch of its National Population and Sustainable Development Policy (NPSDP). This strategy integrates demographic analysis with environmental and economic planning, aligning with Vision 2030. Supported by UNFPA, the initiative addresses urbanization, migration, and aging, and is seen as a template for other small island developing states (SIDS).

East Asia – China Confronts Low Fertility

In response to a rapidly aging society, China hosted a World Population Day summit in Shanghai, focusing on reproductive freedom and family formation. The event reframed declining fertility not as a crisis, but as a call to empower individuals to make informed family decisions. Initiatives like gender-equal workplace reforms and expanded childcare access are being explored to support young families.

Asia-Pacific – Spotlight on Pacific Islands

UNFPA’s collaboration with the University of the South Pacific brought attention to high adolescent birth rates in island nations such as Samoa, Kiribati, and Vanuatu. World Population Day 2025 initiatives in these regions focus on reproductive justice, promoting comprehensive sex education, youth-friendly health services, and women’s empowerment.

South Asia – Pakistan’s Nationwide Outreach

Pakistan mobilized a nationwide awareness campaign, bringing together ministries, NGOs, and youth groups to promote family planning and gender equity. Events emphasized the importance of girl’s education and contraceptive access as tools to manage rapid population growth. These outreach programs included rural education drives, media campaigns, and partnerships with religious leaders to destigmatize reproductive health topics.

Global South Perspectives

In India, population growth is being rebranded as an opportunity. Public discourse frames the demographic wave as a chance to lead the global economy, with youth as innovators and problem-solvers. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, countries like Rwanda and Nigeria are showing progress: Rwanda through education-driven fertility reduction, and Nigeria with youth innovation hubs that blend technology and entrepreneurship.

Youth, Indigenous, and Underrepresented Voices

Youth at the Forefront

World Population Day 2025 has evolved into a platform where young leaders not only share their experiences but also influence policies. From Asia to Africa, youth panels are integral to official observances. Advocates express concerns over climate change, mental health, and employment, pushing for long-term planning and youth-inclusive governance.

Inclusion of Marginalized Communities

Inclusivity has taken center stage in 2025, with a concerted effort to represent indigenous peoples, ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and the elderly. In Latin America, indigenous youth are advocating for education and health infrastructure, while in Europe, migrant and refugee communities demand equitable access to data collection and services. The UN’s emphasis on “Leave No One Behind” has translated into grassroots-level engagements and inclusive census strategies.

Youth-Led Advocacy and Solutions

From TikTok-based awareness campaigns in the Philippines to #EveryoneCounts census mobilizations in Nigeria, youth are leading innovative efforts to ensure their communities are represented. Collaborations with NGOs and universities have given rise to digital tools that disseminate reproductive health information, while youth hackathons across Africa focus on tech-driven solutions to address population and health challenges.

Tech and Data: Tackling Population Challenges with Innovation

Artificial Intelligence for Census Accuracy

Artificial Intelligence is now central to census modernization. Algorithms capable of analyzing satellite imagery to identify buildings and settlements are being deployed in areas with low census response rates. In 2025, countries such as South Africa and Congo have benefited from AI-derived population density maps. Additionally, automated systems are used to flag irregularities in census data, enabling swift corrections.

Big Data for Planning and Response

Governments are integrating population data with geospatial and mobile analytics to create predictive models for service delivery. These models help anticipate demand for healthcare services, contraceptives, and even emergency aid during natural disasters. Such AI-powered planning was showcased during World Population Day events as essential for climate resilience and public health management.

Technology Bridging Outreach Gaps

World Population Day 2025 also highlights how technology bridges knowledge gaps. Digital helplines via WhatsApp bots, chatbots, and mobile apps provide youth with access to family planning resources. Telecom providers, in collaboration with UNFPA, are zero-rating data costs for health-related websites, expanding reach in remote or low-connectivity regions.

Public-Private Partnerships and Global Commitments

Corporate Sector Engagement

UNFPA’s World Population Day 2025 virtual briefing convened corporations and philanthropists to examine “The Real Fertility Crisis“. The discussion emphasized how private companies can adopt family-friendly workplace policies and invest in community reproductive health programs. Several firms announced CSR-driven initiatives, including expanded health benefits and youth mentorship centers.

Data Collaborations for Insight

A successful example of private-public synergy is the UNFPA–YouGov global survey, which polled over 14,000 participants across 14 countries. The findings revealed that young people desire larger families than they currently have, but economic pressures and lack of support prevent them from doing so. This collaborative model is shaping future reproductive health policies and is being considered for replication in other global surveys.

Grassroots and Government Synergies

In countries like Sri Lanka, UNFPA partnered with the National Youth Services Council to collect feedback from youth across regions. These dialogues led to a policy brief submitted to government leaders. Similarly, cross-sector partnerships in Pakistan, Nigeria, and Indonesia have united ministries, civil society, and even faith leaders to promote population health literacy.

Long-Term Development Commitments

Large international organizations including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation used World Population Day to reaffirm funding commitments for family planning and youth programs. A landmark project in West Africa, involving a telecom company, health NGO, and government, sent SMS messages on reproductive health to millions of people. Such partnerships illustrate that achieving universal reproductive rights and sustainable population management requires cooperation across sectors and borders.

Maharashtra Government Declares Ganeshotsav as State Festival

Maharashtra government declared Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav as an official state festival. The announcement was made by Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar during the Legislative Assembly session. This decision is important as it gives government support and funding to one of the state’s biggest cultural celebrations.

Ganeshotsav Gets State Festival Status

The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly witnessed a big announcement by Ashish Shelar, the state’s Cultural Affairs Minister, declaring Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav a state festival. This means the state government will now bear the cost of organising large-scale Ganesh celebrations across cities and villages in Maharashtra.

The move is seen as a step to preserve and promote Maharashtra’s rich culture and traditions. Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, also known as Public Ganesh Festival, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the state.

Historical Roots and Cultural Significance

The minister reminded everyone that freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak had started Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav in 1893. His aim was to unite people and inspire the spirit of freedom and nationalism during the British rule.

Minister Shelar said the festival is not just a religious event, but also a symbol of unity, pride in the Marathi language, and Maharashtra’s cultural identity. He added, “Ganeshotsav is more than just a celebration – it represents Maharashtra’s cultural pride.”

What This Means for the Future

By making it a state festival, the Maharashtra government will now take care of promotion, management, and expenses related to the festival. This will include support for local organising committees, decoration, and public events.

The announcement has received positive feedback from various cultural groups and Ganesh mandals. It is expected to bring more attention to traditional art, music, and community gatherings during the 10-day festival.

Which is the Smallest University of Uttar Pradesh? Know About It

Uttar Pradesh has many universities that offer higher education in different fields. Some are very large and famous, while others are small but still important. A few universities have limited campuses, fewer students and offer only selected courses. These smaller universities still help many students, especially in rural areas. In this article, we will learn about the smallest university in Uttar Pradesh.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India. It has the highest population in India, with over 241 million people. This means about 16.5% of India’s people live here. It shares borders with nine other states and Nepal. UP is the fourth-largest state by area. Lucknow is its capital, and Prayagraj is the judicial capital. The state has 18 divisions and 75 districts.

Number of Districts in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a total of 75 districts. For better management, these districts are grouped into 18 administrative divisions. Each division handles several districts to make the administration smoother and more efficient across the state.

Smallest University of Uttar Pradesh

Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya (SSV), located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest and most respected Sanskrit universities in the world. It was earlier known as Varanaseya Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya and Government Sanskrit College, Varanasi. Although it is not the smallest in size or number of courses, it is often referred to as a ”small” university due to its focused aim on preserving Sanskrit education.

History of Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya

Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya has great historical value as one of India’s oldest institutions for Sanskrit learning. Founded in 1791 by British officer Jonathan Duncan, it was created to preserve and promote ancient Indian knowledge. Over time, it became a center for advanced studies, rare manuscripts and classical education. In 1958, it became a university due to the efforts of Sampurnanand. The university continues to play a key role in keeping Sanskrit language and Indian traditions alive.

Assam Launches ‘Gajah Mitra’ to Protect People and Elephants

Assam Cabinet approved a new plan called the ‘Gajah Mitra’ scheme to reduce growing clashes between humans and elephants in the state. The move comes after hundreds of deaths of both people and elephants over the years. The scheme aims to protect wildlife, create safe spaces for elephants, and help villages deal with such situations in a peaceful way.

A New Scheme for Peaceful Coexistence

The ‘Gajah Mitra’ scheme, approved on Thursday, is Assam’s answer to the serious problem of human-elephant conflict. The scheme will focus on 80 high-risk areas across the state where elephants and people frequently come into contact. The government will grow bamboo and Napier grass, two favorite elephant foods, to keep elephants from entering villages.

Rapid response teams will also be sent to these areas to help villagers guide elephant herds away using safe and non-violent methods.

Why the Scheme Is Needed

Between 2000 and 2023, over 1,400 people and 1,209 elephants died due to these conflicts, according to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). The report says that 626 elephant deaths were caused by human actions like electrocution from illegal or unsafe fences. These fences are often used by farmers to protect their crops but end up harming animals.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the situation has become unmanageable, and the government must act fast to ensure safety for both people and elephants.

Affected Areas and Rising Deaths

Places like Nagaon, Sonitpur West, Dhanasiri, and Karbi Anglong East have seen the highest number of elephant deaths. The WII report also highlights that 527 villages have been affected, with Goalpara being the worst hit.

In some cases, elephants die due to territorial fights (81 deaths) or natural causes (158 deaths), but most deaths happen because elephants are losing access to food and migration paths. This forces them into farmlands and villages, often resulting in the destruction of crops and deadly confrontations.

What’s Next for Assam

The government plans to build sustainable habitats and improve food sources for elephants to prevent them from wandering into human areas. Community participation, through awareness and quick support, will be a key part of the scheme. Officials hope that ‘Gajah Mitra’ will create a model for peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife.

Ujjain to Boost Broadcasting with New Akashvani Kendra

On July 8, 2025, the Central Government announced the setting up of a new Akashvani Kendra (radio station) in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. This step aims to improve regional radio services and provide accurate and quick information to the people. The announcement was made during a meeting between Union and state leaders.

New Akashvani Centre in Ujjain

The government will build a new Akashvani Kendra in Ujjain under the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) scheme. This centre will help improve communication services in the area. It will focus on reaching more people through radio, especially in rural and remote areas of Madhya Pradesh.

Centre–State Collaboration for Better Communication

The decision was taken after a meeting between Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. They discussed how the Central and State governments can work together to improve media outreach, public communication, and broadcasting services.

An official statement confirmed that both leaders agreed to take steps that would benefit the people of the state through better access to information and stronger infrastructure.

About the BIND Scheme

The BIND scheme is a major project of the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It supports the development of broadcasting infrastructure like Akashvani (All India Radio) and Doordarshan (DD) across the country. Its aim is to ensure that even the remotest villages can receive important government messages, news, and cultural programs.

The new Akashvani Kendra in Ujjain is part of this effort and will help preserve local culture, share government updates, and provide educational and entertainment content.

Carnac Bridge Renamed as Sindoor in Mumbai

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the newly rebuilt Carnac Bridge in Mumbai, which has now been renamed Sindoor Bridge. The name change honours the success of Operation Sindoor, a recent military operation against terror camps in Pakistan. The renaming also aims to remove the colonial legacy of British Governor James Rivett-Carnac, who ruled during a time of oppression.

Renaming and Inauguration of the Bridge

The newly constructed Sindoor Bridge was officially opened to the public on July 10, 2025, by CM Devendra Fadnavis. The bridge, formerly known as Carnac Bridge, was renamed after Operation Sindoor to celebrate the bravery of Indian soldiers and to erase the colonial memory associated with Governor Carnac, who was accused of oppressing Indians during British rule.

Fadnavis stated that the renaming marks an important step toward removing symbols of colonial oppression, referencing writings by Prabodhankar Thackeray about Carnac’s conspiracy against Satara’s Chhatrapati Pratap Singh Raje and Rango Bapuji.

Bridge Construction Details and Delay

The 328-metre-long bridge has four lanes for vehicles and will help ease traffic in busy areas such as Crawford Market, Kalbadevi, and Dhobi Talao. The old two-lane Carnac Bridge, built in 1868, was demolished in 2022 after it was found unsafe in a structural audit.

The construction was completed on June 13, 2025, but the opening was delayed due to pending work like signboard installation and No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Central Railway. Earlier, on July 2, both the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) held protests against the delay.

Historical Background of Carnac Bridge

The original bridge was named after James Rivett-Carnac, the Governor of Bombay from 1839 to 1841. He was one of many colonial administrators whose names remain on infrastructure across India. The new name, Sindoor, is intended to reflect India’s present-day strength and break away from its colonial past.

CM Fadnavis explained that the term “Sindoor” not only marks the military victory but also symbolically wipes out dark chapters of history written under British rule.

World Horse Day 2025: Honoring Humanity’s Most Loyal Companion

World Horse Day, observed for the first time on July 11, 2025, is a global tribute to one of the most significant and loyal companions in human history — the horse. Horses have been partners in our development for millennia: ploughing our fields, fighting our wars, transporting our goods, and healing our hearts. In recognition of this enduring relationship, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on June 3, 2025, formally establishing this day. Beyond being a celebration, it’s a powerful call to action: to acknowledge horses’ roles in agriculture, transport, culture, therapy, and sport — and more importantly, to protect them amid modern challenges like climate change and neglect.

History of World Horse Day

The UN General Assembly passed Resolution 79/291 on 3 June 2025, officially declaring 11 July as World Horse Day.

The resolution highlights the contributions of horses across history and calls upon governments, schools, and individuals to honor and safeguard their welfare.

The date was chosen to coincide with the rich seasonal significance of horses in many cultures.

Significance of the Day

World Horse Day 2025 isn’t just ceremonial — it’s a global reminder of how deeply interconnected horses are with our lives:

Cultural Heritage: From nomads of the Eurasian steppes to cavalry units and Olympic sports, horses have helped shape civilizations.

Daily Livelihoods: In many low- and middle-income countries, working equids (horses, donkeys, mules) support over 600 million people.

Sustainable Agriculture: Draft horses help reduce carbon footprints in farming by enabling low-impact ploughing and fertilization.

Emotional & Therapeutic Support: Horses are widely used in equine therapy, helping those with disabilities, PTSD, and anxiety.

Global Horse Statistics & Contributions

Region Number of Horses Highlights
United States 2.41 million Used in farming, sport, and therapy
European Union 7 million 800,000 jobs in breeding, tourism, and sport
Mongolia 3.4 million horses More horses than people (3.3 million)
Global Working Equids 112 million (est.) Support daily life for over 600 million people

Climate Change & Equine Welfare

With 2024 being the hottest year on record (1.5°C above pre-industrial levels), horses — especially working and sporting ones — face growing risks:

  • Heat Stress: Horses struggle to regulate body temperature under extreme heat.
  • Adaptation Efforts: Cooling lanes, shaded stalls, misting fans are now common in Olympic equestrian settings.
  • Policy Action Needed: Global welfare standards must adapt to address climate-driven risks to horses’ health and productivity.

10 Fascinating Horse Facts for Awareness

  • Horses can sleep standing up and lying down.
  • They have a 360-degree field of vision.
  • A horse can drink up to 50 litres of water a day.
  • Foals can walk within hours and run within a day of birth.
  • Horses have strong memories, recognizing people and places even after years.
  • They can rotate ears 180° to detect sound direction.
  • Horses are highly social and bond closely with their herd.
  • They eat throughout the day due to small stomach size.
  • Wild horses often cross rivers for survival.
  • They communicate through body language, including posture, ears, and tail movement.

Why Horses Still Matter Today

1. Food & Farming

Horses enable eco-friendly tillage, cause less soil compaction, and provide natural manure.

2. Jobs & Rural Economy

Nearly 600 million people depend on working equids for transport, water, and crop delivery.

3. Sport & Culture

Equestrian sports promote animal welfare, heritage, and youth engagement.

4. Tourism & Tradition

Trail tourism, horse fairs, and cultural festivals keep indigenous breeds and traditions alive.

How to Celebrate World Horse Day

  • Visit a rescue or therapy center
  • Take an ethical horse ride
  • Share educational horse facts
  • Donate tack or cooling gear
  • Watch Olympic equestrian clips

UN Expert Francesca Albanese Sanctioned by US: Background, Reactions, and Implications

The United States government has imposed sanctions on Francesca Albanese, a United Nations human rights expert known for scrutinizing Israeli conduct in the Palestinian territories. Albanese, who serves as the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, was added to a U.S. sanctions list in an unprecedented move targeting a UN-appointed independent expert.

U.S. officials, under the Trump administration, accuse Albanese of anti-Israel bias and sympathies for extremist groups – allegations she firmly denies. The sanctions were announced amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza and have sparked widespread condemnation from the UN, NGOs, and international legal advocates, who warn that punishing a UN investigator sets a dangerous precedent.

Background and Professional Career

Francesca Albanese, 48, is an Italian international lawyer and academic with more than two decades of experience in human rights and refugee law. She holds a law degree from the University of Pisa and an LL.M. in Human Rights from SOAS, University of London.

She began her career working with various UN agencies including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), focusing on legal protections for displaced populations. In 2015, Albanese became an affiliate scholar at Georgetown University’s Institute for the Study of International Migration and has taught at universities across Europe and the Middle East.

She co-authored a widely respected book on Palestinian refugees in international law and has published extensively on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In 2022, she became the first woman appointed as UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Her Role at the United Nations

Mandate and Mission

As UN Special Rapporteur, Albanese is tasked with independently reporting on human rights violations in the occupied Palestinian territories. While her role is advisory and not representative of the UN as a whole, her reports carry significant moral and political weight.

Key Reports and Statements

Since her appointment, Albanese has issued strong critiques of Israel’s occupation policies. In her inaugural report, she described Israel’s rule over Palestinians as apartheid and urged the international community to take concrete action to end the occupation.

Following the October 2023 outbreak of war in Gaza, she issued multiple warnings, describing the humanitarian crisis as approaching “ethnic cleansing.” By March 2024, she formally reported that Israel’s actions in Gaza amounted to genocide.

Her July 2025 report identified over 60 global corporations—many U.S.-based—that she said were profiting from or enabling Israeli military operations and settlement expansion. She accused them of aiding what she termed “a lucrative genocide.”

Albanese has also supported the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigations into alleged Israeli war crimes and welcomed arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials.

U.S. Sanctions: Context and Justification

Announcement and Legal Basis

The U.S. announced sanctions against Albanese on July 9, 2025, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio. She was added to the Treasury Department’s Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list. This action, based on Executive Order 14203, enables the freezing of her U.S.-based assets and restricts transactions with her by U.S. entities. It also imposes travel bans.

This executive order was originally crafted to target ICC officials pursuing cases against U.S. or allied nationals and had already been used weeks earlier to sanction ICC judges investigating Israeli officials.

Allegations by the U.S.

The Trump administration accused Albanese of promoting “lawfare” against Israel and the United States. Secretary Rubio alleged that she expressed antisemitic views, supported terrorism, and incited prosecutions through illegitimate means.

Rubio singled out her advocacy at the ICC and her criticism of European governments for allowing Netanyahu’s travel despite the ICC arrest warrant as key reasons for the sanction. The administration had reportedly pressured the UN to remove her, and when that failed, moved forward with unilateral sanctions.

Albanese’s Response

Defiance and Resolve

Albanese responded defiantly, stating that the sanctions were “calculated to weaken my mission” but vowed to continue her work. Speaking from Slovenia, she asked rhetorically, “Why am I being sanctioned? For having exposed a genocide?”

On social media, she denounced the move as “mafia-style intimidation” and said the sanctions were a sign that she had “hit a nerve.” She called on the international community to remain focused on Gaza, where she says the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.

Focus on Victims, Not Intimidation

Albanese dismissed the sanctions as crude and ineffective, emphasizing that her priority remains documenting abuses and advocating for Palestinian civilians. She reiterated her belief that justice and accountability must not be compromised by political pressure.

UN and Institutional Reactions

Condemnation from the United Nations

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called for a prompt reversal of the sanctions, stating that UN member states should engage constructively, not punitively.

The Secretary-General’s spokesperson noted that the move “sets a dangerous precedent” and that special rapporteurs are independent and should not be subject to unilateral penalties. Switzerland, which chaired the Human Rights Council, expressed “deep regret” over the decision.

Special Procedures Committee Response

The Coordination Committee of Special Procedures—a collective body of UN experts—issued a rare and forceful condemnation. They warned that the U.S. action was an attack on the UN system, praising Albanese for “speaking truth to power” despite threats and coordinated attacks.

They emphasized that “sanctions will not silence Albanese or other mandate holders,” and called on the global community to defend the integrity of the UN human rights system.

Global and NGO Reactions

Support from Human Rights Organizations

Amnesty International condemned the sanctions as a “shameless and transparent attack” on international justice. Secretary-General Agnès Callamard said Albanese’s work is essential, particularly during a humanitarian crisis of this scale.

Human Rights Watch echoed the concern, stating that the U.S. was trying to silence a UN expert for doing her job. Their former director, Kenneth Roth, described the sanctions as an attempt to shield Israeli officials from accountability.

The Center for International Policy described the U.S. move as “rogue state behavior” and a threat to international law.

Divided Governmental Responses

Some governments, particularly in the Global South, have expressed concern about the precedent this sets. UN experts warned that this could embolden authoritarian states to target rapporteurs investigating their own abuses.

The European Union has yet to issue a formal statement, while Italy—Albanese’s home country—has remained diplomatically quiet. However, some Italian lawmakers have criticized the U.S. move as an attack on national sovereignty.

Celebration in Israel and Among Allies

Israeli officials welcomed the U.S. decision. Israel’s ambassador to the UN called Albanese’s work “political warfare,” and pro-Israel organizations in the U.S. also supported the sanction, having long accused her of bias and antisemitism.

Implications for International Justice

A Dangerous Precedent

Sanctioning a UN rapporteur is widely viewed as undermining the independence and credibility of the international human rights system. Experts fear it may discourage others from exposing human rights abuses in politically sensitive contexts.

There is concern that the move blurs the line between disagreement and retaliation, effectively punishing those who document violations under international law.

Impact on the Israel-Palestine Conflict

The sanctions highlight a broader struggle between efforts to seek justice for Palestinians and geopolitical efforts to shield Israel from scrutiny. Albanese’s critics view her work as biased, while her supporters see it as principled advocacy for civilian victims.

With over 57,000 Palestinians reported killed in Gaza since October 2023, calls for accountability have intensified. Albanese’s work has been pivotal in framing the situation as genocide and mobilizing international legal action.

NESTS and UNICEF Start TALASH for Tribal Youth Development

National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and UNICEF India launched TALASH, a new program to support the education and personal growth of tribal students. The initiative will help students studying in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across 28 states and 8 union territories. It aims to build self-confidence, life skills, and guide students in choosing the right careers.

What is TALASH?

TALASH stands for Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub. It is India’s first national program made just for tribal students. The program will benefit over 1.38 lakh students in EMRSs. It is a digital platform where students can take tests to understand their talents and interests, receive career suggestions, learn life skills, and get help from trained teachers.

The name ‘TALASH’ means a search — a search for one’s inner strength, abilities, and dreams. It supports not just studies but also emotional and mental development.

Tools and Support for Students and Teachers

The platform uses psychometric tests, based on NCERT’s Tamanna initiative, to help students know what they are good at. After the test, each student gets a Career Card with suggestions for suitable careers.
Students will also get career counselling, and training in life skills like problem-solving, communication, and managing emotions. These lessons will help them become more confident and ready for the future.

Teachers are also being trained through a special e-learning system so they can guide students better. So far, 189 teachers from 75 schools have already started training students in their own schools.

Rollout Plan and Future Goals

TALASH will be introduced in schools step by step so that every school can adopt it smoothly. The plan is to complete the rollout in all EMRSs by the end of 2025. The platform will be regularly improved based on feedback from students, teachers, and other experts.

Mr. Ajeet Kumar Srivastava, Commissioner of NESTS, said,

“TALASH is a sign of our promise to give tribal students a chance to reach their full potential. We want to close the gap in education and build strong future leaders.”

TALASH is also linked with the goals of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which focuses on giving all students equal learning chances and helping them grow in every way.

Veteran Leader N. Tippanna Passes Away at 97

N. Tippanna, a respected leader, lawyer, and former Chairman of the Karnataka Legislative Council, passed away on July 11, 2025, in Ballari at the age of 97. He was suffering from age-related health issues. Tippanna made major contributions to law, politics, and education in Karnataka.

A Life of Service Ends

Tippanna passed away early Friday morning at his home in Ballari, surrounded by family. His body will be kept at his residence for the public to pay their respects. His final rites will be held on Saturday, July 12, in his native village Turuvanur in Chitradurga district. Tippanna is survived by his son.

A Journey in Law and Politics

Born on November 23, 1928, in Turuvanur, Tippanna began his legal career in 1954. He served as District Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor in Ballari. He also led the Bellary Bar Association and was Vice President of the Karnataka Bar Council. His legal excellence was recognized during the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Bar Council, attended by Indira Gandhi.

Politically, he was a strong supporter of Ramakrishna Hegde and joined the Janata Dal (U). After the party merged with Janata Dal (S), Tippanna became the State President of JD(S). He served as a member of the Karnataka Legislative Council and was elected Chairman twice.

Contribution to Education and Community

Tippanna worked tirelessly to promote education. As the General Secretary of Veerashaiva Vidyavardhaka Sangha, he helped start over 40 educational institutions in Ballari, including colleges and technical schools. In recognition of his efforts, he received an Honorary Doctorate from Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University.

He was also an influential figure in the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community, serving as President of the Karnataka State Unit of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha. Even in his old age, he stayed active in social and public service.

Tributes from Across the State

Many political and public leaders paid tribute to Tippanna, calling him a visionary leader, committed public servant, and a champion of justice and education. His work touched many lives across Karnataka, especially in Ballari and Chitradurga districts.

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