The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj deployed new cleaning technology. Authorities introduced manual sweeping machines and battery-operated litter pickers. These machines aim to keep the mela grounds clean. The equipment is eco-friendly. The move improves the experience for devotees and tourists. The machines offer efficient cleaning without manual labour.

Banaras Hindu University will celebrate Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya's birth anniversary. A Malaviya Memorial Flower Exhibition will occur from December 25 to 27. The exhibition includes chrysanthemums, roses, and other exhibits. Competitions like essay writing and Gita recitation were already held. Results will be announced on Malaviya Jayanti, December 23.

BHU's Dean of Students organized a marathon on Sunday, promoting health and fitness. Participants ran from Malviya Bhavan to the Vishwanath Temple, honoring Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya's vision. Students, teachers, and staff enthusiastically joined, carrying banners and chanting slogans. Prof. Nema highlighted the importance of physical activity, and the event fostered community spirit while raising fitness awareness.

Prayagraj health authorities are implementing a high-tech mosquito and fly control system for Mahakumbh 2025. Over 200 automatic blower mist and fogging machines will ensure a swift 30-minute response to insect-related issues. A dedicated team of malaria inspectors and officers will be deployed across the mela campus, prioritizing the well-being of both saints and pilgrims.

Prayagraj prepares for a grand cultural spectacle during Mahakumbh. Twenty stages will showcase diverse folk arts. Over 10,000 artists will perform daily. Ramlilas from various states will add a spiritual touch. The event runs from January 10 to February 24. Cultural programs will enrich the experience for devotees and tourists.

India's first Dome City, a Rs 51 crore project, is under construction in Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh. Forty-four bulletproof and fireproof domes will house 176 cottages, offering a hill station-like experience with modern amenities. Cottages will cost between Rs 41,000 and Rs 81,000, while domes will range from Rs 81,000 to Rs 1,10,000, depending on the festival period.

Prayagraj Mela police are implementing an AI-driven data analytics system for enhanced security at the 2025 Mahakumbh. The system will analyze real-time data for crowd management and threat detection, supporting the 40 crore pilgrims expected. A dedicated team will manage the system and train officers, ensuring smooth operation and inter-agency coordination.

A stepwell, or baoli, was unearthed in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, near a Shiv-Hanuman temple. The Archaeological Survey of India made the discovery. The baoli is about 400 square meters and has four chambers. Some levels have marble flooring. Excavation is ongoing to uncover the structure, believed to be over 150 years old.

A bullion trader and his son were shot and robbed of a bag of jewelry in Varanasi on Sunday morning. The victims were returning home from the railway station when a car overtook their scooter and the occupants opened fire. Both father and son are in stable condition after receiving treatment. Police have launched an investigation to find the culprits.

Prayagraj mela police have implemented a 12-km river traffic management system for the Mahakumbh. This includes a single-route system for 4,000 boats, deep-water barricades, and platforms for Jal Police. Divers, SDRF, NDRF, and PAC personnel will ensure pilgrim safety, supported by a floating traffic control station and jetties. Real-time monitoring will be conducted via Dial 112.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath linked increased investment proposals to improved law and order. The opposition Samajwadi Party countered this claim. The SP cited recent crimes as evidence of a deteriorating security situation. They accused the government of fostering an environment of lawlessness. This disagreement highlights the political tension surrounding governance in Uttar Pradesh.

Tensions flared in Rae Bareli as Hindu group Vishwa Hindu Raksha Parishad publicly condemned Rahul Gandhi's alleged involvement in a parliamentary scuffle. Posters accusing the MP of assaulting elderly BJP members lined the streets, sparking a war of words between the Congress and BJP. Congress dismissed the accusations as baseless, attributing them to BJP's frustration over Gandhi's rising popularity.

Bahraich police arrested a 24-year-old Nepalese man for trafficking a 15-year-old girl from Achham, Nepal, on December 19-20. This marks the first such arrest of a Nepalese citizen at the border, deviating from the previous practice of handing over cases to Nepalese authorities. The girl is at a One Stop Centre, and her family has been contacted.

The Ram temple project in Ayodhya has been awarded the British Safety Council's 'Sword of Honour' for its exceptional safety standards. The construction, managed by L&T with Tata Consulting Engineers' support, also earned the National Safety Council's Golden Trophy.