States and Capitals

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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.

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.

Anil Nagar, Founder & CEO of Adda Education, shares a heartwarming story of a Daughter’s Selection

“Bahut saare bachche coaching afford nahi kar sakte. Aapne unhe aage badhne ki prerna di.”

These weren’t just compliments. They were words from a proud father, whose daughter had just cleared the State Bank of India Clerk 2025 exam.

He didn’t speak about cut-offs or syllabus. He spoke about hope. About how his daughter got a fair chance — not because of privilege, but because Adda247 made quality coaching possible for families like his.

The True Meaning of a Selection

At Adda Education, we meet thousands of aspirants each day, many from small towns and rural India, where access to quality coaching is limited or completely absent.

We’ve seen students study late into the night after finishing chores…
We’ve seen siblings share one smartphone just to watch classes…
We’ve seen dreams fueled not by privilege, but by pure determination.

And when those dreams take flight — when selections come through — they don’t just uplift individuals, they rewrite the future of entire families.

Why This Matters to Us

For us, it has never been just about teaching Math or Reasoning or General Awareness.
It’s about building a bridge, from seeing dreams to achieving dreams.
We believe that talent exists in every corner of India. But what’s often missing is the right guidance, the right support, and someone to say — “Tu kar sakta hai.”

That’s what we’ve built through Adda247, StudyIQ, PrepInsta, and now Career247 — a holistic ecosystem that takes a student from preparation to placement, from learning to livelihood.

Building Bharat’s Employability Ecosystem

We know that India produces over 1 crore graduates every year, but a large percentage remain unemployed or underemployed. The gap isn’t in capability; the gap is in access and direction.

Our mission is clear:

Make high-quality education affordable and accessible.
Provide exam preparation, career guidance, and skill training in students’ own language.
Support learners not just till selection, but till they change their life story.

The Road Ahead

Our vision of success isn’t complete until every youth of Bharat can stand up and say: “I have achieved my dream”

That’s the future we are working towards — one student, one dream, one breakthrough at a time.

If you’ve cleared an exam, if you’ve made your parents proud, or if you’re still on the journey — know that we’re with you. Always.

Let’s keep moving forward, together.

Top-10 Smallest Districts of Uttar Pradesh, Know About Them

Uttar Pradesh is one of the most populated state in India and has 75 districts. Some districts are very large, while others are quite small in area. Small districts may have less land, but they can still be busy, important and full of life. In this article, we will look at the top-10 smallest districts of Uttar Pradesh based on their total land area.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a large state in northern India. It has over 241 million people, making it the most populated state in India and the world’s most populated region. It shares borders with nine states and Nepal. UP covers about 243,000 square kilometers and has 75 districts. Lucknow is the capital, while Prayagraj is the judicial capital. It plays a major role in India’s population and culture.

Number of Districts in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a total of 75 districts, which are grouped into 18 administrative divisions. These divisions help in better management and governance of the state, making it easier to run local services.

Top-10 Smallest Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a large state with 75 districts, but some of them are quite small in size. These districts may have less area, but they are still important for trade, industries and culture. Let’s know about the top-10 smallest districts of Uttar Pradesh in brief.

Hapur, Smallest District of Uttar Pradesh

Hapur is the smallest district in Uttar Pradesh, covering about 660 sq. km. It is known as the Steel City due to its iron and steel industries. Despite its size, it’s an important industrial and trading center.

Ghaziabad

Ghaziabad, spread over around 1,034 sq. km, is a key part of the National Capital Region (NCR). It is well-developed with modern facilities and is known for its industries, real estate and growing population.

Bhadohi

Bhadohi covers about 1,116 sq. km and is world-famous for its carpet industry. Often called the ”Carpet City of India,” it exports handmade carpets globally and plays a vital role in local employment.

Shamli

Shamli, located in western UP, has an area of around 1,167 sq. km. It is a small but developing district, known for sugarcane farming and its emerging industries. It was formed in 2011.

Gautam Buddha Nagar

Home to Noida and Greater Noida, this district spans about 1,269 sq. km. It is UP’s most educated district and a hub for IT companies, universities and modern infrastructure, making it highly urbanized.

Baghpat

Baghpat district has an area of 1,321 sq. km and lies in western Uttar Pradesh. It is mainly known for agriculture, especially sugarcane and wheat. It is close to Delhi and part of the NCR.

Mau

Mau covers about 1,713 sq. km and is situated in eastern UP. It is well-known for its textile and weaving industry, especially cotton and silk. Many people here are skilled in traditional cloth-making.

Hathras

Hathras has an area of 1,752 sq. km and is famous for its asafoetida (hing) processing industry. The district is also known for brassware and its growing market culture in western Uttar Pradesh.

Kaushambi

Kaushambi district spans about 1,837 sq. km and is known for pulse (dal) processing. Located near Prayagraj, it has historical and cultural importance and contributes to UP’s agricultural economy.

Farrukhabad

Farrukhabad, covering 2,279 sq. km, is known for its cloth printing and textile work. The district has a mix of urban and rural culture and plays a strong role in preserving traditional crafts.

Divya Deshmukh Creates History: Wins FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup 2025

India’s rising chess star Divya Deshmukh scripted history on July 28, 2025, by defeating veteran Koneru Humpy in the tiebreaks to win the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup held in Batumi, Georgia. At just 19 years old, Divya not only clinched one of the most prestigious titles in women’s chess but also became India’s fourth female Grandmaster (GM).

A Battle of Generations

The final of the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup was a clash between experience and youthful brilliance. Koneru Humpy, India’s first woman Grandmaster and a legend in women’s chess, brought her immense experience, being currently ranked World No. 5. Divya Deshmukh, ranked World No. 18, entered the event as an underdog, but showed remarkable determination and composure against her senior. The two classical games played earlier had ended in draws, pushing the match into rapid tiebreaks.

The Decisive Tiebreaks

In the first rapid game, Divya held Humpy to a solid draw. The second game proved decisive,

Playing with black pieces, Divya capitalised on a critical endgame mistake by Humpy.
She converted the advantage with precision to claim victory.
This win not only gave her the World Cup title but also fulfilled her dream of becoming a Grandmaster, a feat she described as “fate.”

Divya’s Journey to the Top

Early Achievements

Divya was crowned World Junior Champion in the girls’ section in 2024.
She was instrumental in India’s gold medal win at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, where she also bagged an individual gold.

Grandmaster Title

With this win, Divya joins an elite list of Indian women who hold the Grandmaster title,

Koneru Humpy
R. Vaishali
Harika Dronavalli
Divya Deshmukh (the youngest among them at present).

Overcoming Odds

Despite her lower FIDE ranking and Humpy’s status as the World Rapid Champion, Divya remained fearless. She admitted that her draw in the first classical game “felt like a loss” as she missed winning chances, but she kept her composure to seize the opportunity in the rapid format.

Koneru Humpy: The Veteran Opponent

At 37 years old, Koneru Humpy remains one of the greatest ambassadors of Indian chess. She was once the youngest woman to become a GM, breaking Judit Polgar’s record at the age of 15 years and 27 days.
Even though she lost the final, Humpy praised Divya’s preparation and acknowledged that the youngster was “clearly better” during stretches of the match.

The Significance of the Win

Divya’s victory is a landmark for Indian chess,

It underscores India’s growing dominance in the global chess arena.
The win adds another Grandmaster to India’s roster.
For women’s chess in India, it is a generational milestone, inspiring young players to dream bigger.
Her triumph also adds momentum to India’s recent surge in the chess world, where young talents are increasingly making their mark in prestigious international tournaments.

Operation Mahadev: Indian Security Forces Neutralise Terrorists Of Pahalgam Attack

The Indian Army, in coordination with the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police, launched a high-intensity counter-terrorism mission codenamed Operation Mahadev in the Dara region near Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir. Acting on credible intelligence inputs about terrorist movement, security forces engaged in a fierce encounter on Monday, resulting in the elimination of three Pakistani terrorists belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Background of the Operation

The operation was initiated after intelligence inputs indicated possible movement of militants in the Lidwas area near Harwan, located about 20 km from Srinagar city. The region, known for its rugged trekking terrain, has previously been used by militants as a hideout due to its difficult topography.

This anti-terror drive is also linked to ongoing efforts to track down perpetrators of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives. Recent reports suggested that some militants involved in that attack may have shifted their base toward the Dachigam area.

The Encounter

The gunfight began around 11 AM on Monday after security forces established contact with the terrorists. The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army confirmed via an official statement,

“Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues.”
Additional reinforcements and drone surveillance were deployed to ensure the area was fully secured.

Identification of the Terrorists

According to SSP Srinagar GV Sundeep Chakravarty, the neutralised militants were all Pakistani nationals and affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). While their direct involvement in the Pahalgam attack is yet to be confirmed, investigations are ongoing to ascertain their exact role.

Security Forces Involved

The operation was a joint effort involving the,

Indian Army (Chinar Corps)
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
Jammu & Kashmir Police

Their coordination and rapid action prevented the militants from escaping and ensured the safety of civilians in the area.

Significance of Operation Mahadev

Counter-Terrorism Success: The neutralisation of three LeT militants marks a significant success in India’s continuing efforts against cross-border terrorism.
Regional Security: The operation strengthens security in the Srinagar and Dachigam region, reducing the threat of further attacks.
Link to Pahalgam Attack: While their direct involvement is yet to be confirmed, this operation is a step toward justice for the victims of the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
Use of Modern Surveillance: Deployment of drones showcased the Army’s focus on technology-driven counter-insurgency operations.

Top-5 Safest Countries in the World in 2025, Know About Them

Safety is one of the most important things people look for when choosing a place to live, visit or travel. Some countries are known for being very peaceful, with low crime, good healthcare and friendly people. In this article, we will look at the top-5 safest countries in the world where you can feel secure and enjoy a calm, worry-free life or holiday.

Top-5 Safest Countries in the World in 2025

The peace land of a country is measured using the Global Peace Index (GPI). The lower the GPI score, the safer and more peaceful the country is. The GPI considers crime rates, political safety, military presence and quality of life.

Here are the names of top-5 safest countries in the world in 2025:

Iceland
Ireland
New Zealand
Austria
Switzerland

Iceland, World’s Safest Country

GPI Score: 1.095

Iceland has once again been ranked the safest country in the world in 2025. It has held this position since 2008. There is almost no violent crime and the country has no standing army, which shows how peaceful it is. People enjoy clean air, high-quality healthcare and long life expectancy. Iceland is truly an example of stability and safety.

Ireland

GPI Score: 1.260

Ireland is in second place on the global peace list. The country is calm, with very few crimes and a strong healthcare system. In 2025, Ireland’s government set aside over 25 billion euros to improve health services. People in Ireland live long, happy lives and the society is peaceful and well-managed.

New Zealand

GPI Score: 1.282

New Zealand ranks third in 2025, moving up from fourth place in 2024. It is one of the most peaceful countries in the Asia-Pacific region. With strong safety rules and low violence, New Zealand is a favorite for tourists and families. The environment is clean and the people are respectful and friendly.

Austria

GPI Score: 1.294

Austria is the fourth safest country in the world. It has very low violence and political conflict, which helps it remain stable. In the past, it was ranked third, but due to a small rise in national spending in 2025, it moved down slightly. Still, Austria continued to offer a peaceful and secure lifestyle.

Switzerland

GPI Score: 1.294

Switzerland, also known as the Swiss Confederation, is in fifth place for 2025. This small European country is well-known for neutral politics, clean cities and safe public spaces. It moved up one spot from 6th place in 2024, showing its continued commitment to peace, stability and citizen safety.

World Hepatitis Day 2025: Understanding Hepatitis and the Need for Early Detection

Every year, World Hepatitis Day is observed on 28th July to raise global awareness about the silent yet deadly liver disease, hepatitis. The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed the first vaccine against it. Despite being preventable and treatable, millions across the world remain affected — often unknowingly — making early detection, vaccination, and awareness crucial.

Why World Hepatitis Day Matters

Recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Hepatitis Day is a global campaign to highlight the urgent need for,

Universal access to hepatitis prevention and treatment.
Early diagnosis to prevent silent liver damage.
Awareness drives to reduce stigma and misinformation.

In 2025, the campaign theme is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down”, focusing on dismantling financial, social, and systemic barriers that prevent timely access to care and pushing towards the global goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, a vital organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and energy storage. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). While some forms resolve naturally, chronic hepatitis can silently damage the liver over years, leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

The most common causes are viral infections, but hepatitis can also result from alcohol abuse, autoimmune disorders, or certain medications.

Types of Hepatitis and How They Spread

Hepatitis A (HAV)

Caused by contaminated food or water.
Usually short-term and self-limiting.
More common in areas with poor sanitation.

Hepatitis B (HBV)

Transmitted through infected blood, unprotected sex, or from mother to child during childbirth.
Can become chronic, leading to liver complications.
Preventable with vaccination.

Hepatitis C (HCV)

Spread through blood-to-blood contact, often via unsafe injections or transfusions.
A leading cause of chronic liver disease.
Now curable with antiviral treatment.

Hepatitis D (HDV)

Occurs only in people already infected with Hepatitis B, as it requires HBV to survive.
Co-infection can accelerate liver damage.

Hepatitis E (HEV)

Spread via contaminated water, similar to Hepatitis A.
Usually acute, but dangerous for pregnant women and those with weak immunity.

Symptoms of Hepatitis

Hepatitis often goes unnoticed in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they include,

Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain (especially upper right side)
Dark urine and pale stools
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

In chronic cases, symptoms may not appear until the liver is severely damaged, making regular screening essential.

Hepatitis in Children: A Hidden Risk

Children may contract hepatitis through mother-to-child transmission, unscreened blood transfusions, or contaminated food/water.
Hepatitis B and C in children can become chronic, silently affecting growth and immunity.
Many remain asymptomatic, which makes vaccination and early screening critical.
Early detection ensures timely treatment and prevents further transmission within families and schools.

Long-Term Impact on Liver Health

Chronic hepatitis, especially types B and C, can lead to,

Liver cirrhosis (scarring and loss of function)
Liver failure (inability to filter toxins and produce proteins)
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
Portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the liver)
Need for liver transplantation
With timely antiviral therapy, lifestyle management, and regular checkups, the risk of these complications can be significantly reduced.

How to Prevent Hepatitis

Vaccination: Effective vaccines available for Hepatitis A and B.
Safe food and water: Drink clean water and maintain hygiene.
Sterile medical practices: Use only sterilised needles and surgical tools.
Safe blood transfusions: Ensure proper blood screening.
Safe sexual practices: Use protection to avoid transmission.
Avoid sharing personal items: Razors, toothbrushes, or nail cutters.
Regular testing: Especially for high-risk groups.

Screening and Diagnosis

Early diagnosis saves lives. Common methods include,

Blood tests (detect hepatitis viruses and liver enzyme levels).
HBsAg and Anti-HCV tests (screening for Hepatitis B and C).
Liver function tests (LFTs).
Ultrasound or elastography for liver scarring.
Liver biopsy in advanced cases.

At-risk groups include,

People with a family history of hepatitis.
Individuals who received unscreened blood transfusions.
Pregnant women with possible infection.
Patients showing signs of jaundice or unexplained fatigue.

Raising Awareness This World Hepatitis Day

Awareness is the first step to prevention. On this World Hepatitis Day 2025, people can contribute by,

Encouraging testing among family and friends.
Sharing information on social media with hashtags and awareness quotes.
Participating in vaccination drives.
Breaking stigma through open conversations.

Popular awareness quotes include,

“Know hepatitis, act now.”
“Hepatitis is silent: don’t let it stay hidden.”
“One test can protect your liver for life.”

Tom Lehrer Passes Away at 97: A Legacy of Satire and Scholarship

The world bid farewell to Tom Lehrer, the celebrated musical satirist and mathematics master, who passed away at the age of 97 at his home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Known for his razor-sharp wit and incisive commentary on society, Lehrer left behind a legacy that continues to resonate across music, education, and cultural discourse.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1928 in New York City, Tom Lehrer was the son of a prosperous necktie designer. Raised on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, his childhood was filled with Broadway shows and leisurely strolls through Central Park, experiences that nurtured his creative spirit.

A gifted prodigy, Lehrer skipped two grades and entered Harvard University at just 15. By the age of 18, he had already earned his degree in mathematics. He later pursued a master’s degree and began working toward a Ph.D., though he never completed the doctorate, famously remarking that he enjoyed being a graduate student more than becoming a professor.

Rise as a Musical Satirist

Lehrer gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s for his witty satirical songs, which tackled themes like marriage, politics, racism, and the Cold War with biting humor and intelligence. His work was notable for blending mathematical precision with lyrical satire, making him a unique voice in American popular culture.

His compositions often challenged social conventions and political narratives, earning him both admiration and controversy.

Academic Career

Despite his musical success, Lehrer gradually retreated from the public spotlight to focus on academia. He began teaching mathematics at Harvard and later joined the faculty at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he remained until his late 70s.

He admitted that some students only enrolled in his classes upon discovering his musical legacy, a fact he accepted with characteristic humor.

Contributions to Education and Media

Lehrer also made significant contributions to children’s education through the popular 1970s educational program “The Electric Company”, where his songs were used to teach young learners. Reflecting on this, he said that hearing from people who had benefited from his songs brought him greater satisfaction than the acclaim he received for his satire.

His works experienced a revival through the 1980 stage revue “Tomfoolery”, which celebrated his music. In 1998, he made a rare public appearance in London to honor producer Cameron Mackintosh.

A Unconventional Legacy

In a remarkable act of generosity and progressiveness, Tom Lehrer relinquished the copyright of his lyrics in 2020, making them freely available for public use. This decision reflected his belief in the importance of knowledge and creativity being accessible to all.

His humor, intellect, and humanity made him a cultural icon who influenced generations of thinkers, musicians, and comedians.

CRPF Celebrates 87th Foundation Day: History, Role, and Legacy

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), one of India’s most prestigious paramilitary forces, celebrates its 87th Foundation Day on July 27, 2025. Since its inception in 1939, the CRPF has played a pivotal role in maintaining internal security and safeguarding India from external and internal threats. With its motto “Service and Loyalty”, the CRPF continues to stand as a symbol of dedication, bravery, and resilience.

Historical Background

The CRPF traces its origins to July 27, 1939, when it was founded as the Crown Representative Police to handle unrest in the princely states during the colonial era. Following India’s independence, the force was formally reorganized and renamed the Central Reserve Police Force on December 28, 1949, through an Act of Parliament.

The initiative was supported by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, who envisioned a strong force capable of maintaining law and order in a newly independent India. The CRPF has since grown into one of the largest and most decorated paramilitary forces in the country.

Why CRPF is Special

Women Battalions

The CRPF is the only paramilitary force in India with six women battalions, beginning with the 88 (M) Battalion in 1986. These units, headquartered in Delhi, are crucial for handling women’s agitations with sensitivity and efficiency, ensuring law and order without escalation.

VIP Security Wing

The VIP Security Wing of the CRPF provides protection to Union Ministers, Governors, Chief Ministers, spiritual leaders, and other prominent figures, working under the guidance of the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is known for its precision and professionalism.

Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (COBRA)

Established between 2008 and 2011, the COBRA units specialize in jungle warfare and guerrilla tactics, particularly in areas affected by Maoist insurgency like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Nicknamed ‘Jungle Warriors’, they are among the most elite counter-insurgency forces in India.

Rapid Action Force (RAF)

Raised in 1992, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was designed to manage riots and public unrest. It is known for its quick deployment and was awarded the President’s Flag in 2003 for its service. RAF units also participate in UN peacekeeping missions, enhancing India’s global standing.

Motto and Mandate

The motto of the CRPF is “Service and Loyalty”, reflecting its commitment to safeguarding the nation. As part of India’s armed forces under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the CRPF is entrusted with,

Maintaining law and order
Conducting anti-Naxal and counter-insurgency operations
Assisting the Army during border conflicts and terrorist attacks

Notable Contributions in History

Battle of Hot Springs, 1959

The CRPF fought courageously against Chinese forces at Hot Springs in Ladakh on October 21, 1959. Despite being outnumbered and facing sub-zero temperatures, CRPF soldiers resisted valiantly, with 10 martyrs laying down their lives. This sacrifice is commemorated annually as Police Memorial Day.

Battle of Sardar Post, 1965

During Operation Desert Hawk by Pakistan, CRPF personnel at Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch faced an assault from a 3,500-strong Pakistani brigade. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the CRPF successfully defended the post, killing 14 enemy soldiers and capturing four alive, forcing the enemy to retreat.

Parliament Attack, 2001

On December 13, 2001, CRPF jawans bravely countered a suicide attack on the Indian Parliament, eliminating all five terrorists in a 30-minute gun battle. A woman constable made the supreme sacrifice while defending the nation’s temple of democracy.

Ayodhya Attack, 2005

On July 5, 2005, CRPF personnel foiled a terrorist attack on the Ram Janmabhoomi site in Ayodhya, killing all five attackers and preventing a major tragedy.

Legacy of Service

From the icy frontiers of Ladakh to the deserts of Kutch, and from counter-insurgency operations to riot control and VIP security, the CRPF has shown unmatched courage and dedication. Its contributions in both wartime and peacetime highlight its indispensable role in India’s internal security framework.

NCERT to Introduce Curriculum Modules on Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Operation Sindoor

In a landmark step to make school education more contextual, contemporary, and rooted in national identity, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is set to introduce new curriculum modules highlighting Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s space mission and India’s Operation Sindoor, a decisive military action. These modules aim to educate students about India’s growing strength in defence, diplomacy, space exploration, and sustainability.

Background of the Curriculum Push

The modules are being developed under the guidance of the Ministry of Education and will be included in the syllabi of Classes 3 to 12. Senior officials have confirmed that the content is currently under development and will be rolled out soon after completion.

The initiative reflects the government’s vision of providing students with an understanding of national achievements, security challenges, and scientific advancements, while instilling pride in India’s growing stature on the world stage.

Focus on Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla

One of the key highlights is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s achievement of becoming the first Indian astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom Mission 4. His inclusion is intended to ignite scientific curiosity among students and encourage them to pursue careers in aerospace, space research, and technology.

The modules will also cover India’s landmark space missions such as Chandrayaan, Aditya L1, and other significant achievements, reinforcing the country’s emergence as a global space power.

Operation Sindoor: Teaching Strategic Defence

The curriculum will also feature Operation Sindoor, a swift and decisive military reprisal undertaken to safeguard India’s sovereignty. While operational details will remain classified, the case study will serve as a powerful lesson in,

The role of defence forces in protecting national integrity.
The importance of inter-ministerial coordination in times of crisis.
The decisive leadership required during national security challenges.
This section aims to help students understand how strategic decisions are made and executed for the protection of the nation.

Additional Themes in the Curriculum

Mission LiFE for Sustainable Living

In addition to defence and space, the modules will highlight Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. It will educate students about the importance of sustainable living practices, climate change mitigation, and maintaining ecological balance.

Partition: Lessons from History

Another component of the new curriculum will address the Partition of India, presenting its hardships and long-lasting impact. This module aims to foster historical understanding and empathy while teaching resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

Structure of the Modules

The curriculum will have two sets of modules,

For Classes 3 to 8, designed in a simple format for younger learners.
For Classes 9 to 12, with more detailed content and analytical perspectives.
Each module will span 8–10 pages and use case studies to make the topics more engaging and relatable for students.

NALSA Launches Yojana To Strengthen Legal Aid for Defence Personnel and Families

The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched a new scheme titled ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’ to provide comprehensive legal aid to defence personnel and their families. The announcement came during the North Zone Regional Conference held in Srinagar, on the theme “Reaffirming the Constitutional Vision of Justice for Defence Personnel and Tribals.” The initiative highlights NALSA’s commitment to ensuring that those who guard the nation’s borders also receive full protection of their legal and constitutional rights.

Background of the Initiative

The National Legal Services Authority, which has been working for 30 years to promote access to justice for all, designed this scheme to address the legal challenges faced by soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families. The scheme was launched under the leadership of Justice Surya Kant, Supreme Court Judge and Executive Chairman of NALSA.

Justice Kant emphasized that the initiative builds upon the existing network of legal services clinics, extending it to Sainik Boards at the Zilla, Rajya, and Kendra levels. These boards, already known for providing welfare and support, will now serve as dedicated nodal centres for guiding defence families through legal issues.

Key Features of ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana

Expanding Legal Aid Through Sainik Boards

The scheme integrates legal aid services with Sainik Boards, ensuring easy accessibility for serving and retired personnel. This dedicated system allows soldiers and their families to seek timely legal guidance and assistance.

Involving Defence Families as Paralegal Volunteers

A unique aspect of the scheme is the active involvement of defence families and ex-servicemen as paralegal volunteers. This ensures that legal assistance comes not just from legal experts, but also from those who understand the ground realities of military life.

Addressing Everyday Legal Challenges

Justice Kant highlighted that soldiers often face routine legal issues such as land disputes, matrimonial conflicts, service entitlements, and utility bill disagreements. Due to their postings in remote and sensitive regions, they cannot personally pursue these cases. The new system ensures that they do not have to compromise their duties at the border for such civilian matters.

Robust Back-End Mechanism

The scheme is supported by a strong administrative and legal network to effectively cater to the requirements of armed forces personnel and their families, ensuring timely legal interventions.

Significance of the Initiative

The scheme as a pledge of solidarity with India’s defence forces. Also remarked that while soldiers protect the nation at the borders, the legal fraternity will remain vigilant in protecting their rights at home.

The launch of this scheme also coincides with 30 years of NALSA’s service to the nation, marking a tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to the safety and security of India. It is now the responsibility of society to prioritize the needs of the ‘veer parivar’ (soldiers’ families).