Goa

ChatGPT helps Goa man find lost footwear outside Ujjain Temple

Panaji: Proving that artificial intelligence can find goofy solutions to routine problems, a Goa-based man used ChatGPT to resolve every temple visitors challenge: finding one specific pair of shoes in a sea of footwear. Shubhang Borkar turned his phone into a scanning device outside the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain, sharing snapshots of footwear Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Congress President Kharge To Address Congress Workers In Goa On Aug 17

This is the first time Kharge will address party workers in Goa after taking charge as the Congress national president

Quote of the Day by Thomas Jefferson: If you want something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done

Quote of the Day by Thomas Jefferson highlights the need for new actions to achieve different outcomes. Many personal goals require breaking familiar patterns and accepting uncertainty. Taking risks and trying new things can lead to unforeseen possibilities. Jefferson, a key figure in American history, owned enslaved people. His legacy shows that change often demands leaving comfort zones and trying something different.

Shera Energy eyes 25-30% revenue growth in FY27, bets on capacity expansion

Jaipur-based Shera Energy is targeting 25-30 per cent revenue growth in the current financial year, supported by capacity expansion and foray into new value-added products to cater to the power and renewable energy sectors, according to a top company official. The NSE-listed company, which is also into recycling, began operations in 2003 with aluminium winding wires and had annual revenues of around Rs 20 crore during its early years, its Chairman and Managing Director Naseem Sheikh said in an interaction with PTI. In FY26 Shera Energy reported annual turnover of Rs 1,640 crore. The company manufactures winding wires and other electrical products using copper, aluminium and brass, catering primarily to transformers, motors and other electrical equipment. This year, we intend to grow another 25-30 per cent on our revenues and bottom line, Sheikh said. To achieve its goal, Shera Energy is expanding its product portfolio into higher value-added segments, including solar ribbon and

Jindal Stainless investing Rs 900 crore to increase cold rolling capacity to 2.67 MT by FY28: MD

Jindal Stainless plans a Rs 900 crore investment to expand its cold rolling capacity. This expansion will support rising demand from key industrial sectors. The company is also planning a significant Rs 40,000 crore manufacturing facility in Maharashtra. This new plant will produce specialized steel grades for emerging strategic sectors. Jindal Stainless reported strong financial performance and progress towards sustainability goals.

Minister urges officials to achieve Swarna Kadapa 2047 goals

The Minister also mentioned the substantial allocation of funds to the municipalities, Water Resources and the Tourism departments

India beat Wales 3-1 in Hockey World Cup opener; Harmanpreet Singh scores twice

India opened their FIH Mens Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign in style, defeating Wales 3-1 in their Pool D opener at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen on Saturday. Captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front with two goals, while Sanjay also found the net as India collected three valuable points. All three of Indias goals [] The post India beat Wales 3-1 in Hockey World Cup opener; Harmanpreet Singh scores twice appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

LG Ladakh VK Saxena hoist Tricolour in Leh

The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and gaiety across Ladakh union territory. In Leh district, the main function was held at the historic Pologround where the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena hoisted the National Flag, inspected the parade and saluted the marching contingents, including the Armed forces and school students, which took part in the march past during the event. Addressing the gathering, Saxena paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices secured Indias Independence and laid the foundation of its democratic journey. He also saluted personnel of the Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Ladakh Scouts, police and the Border Roads Organisation guarding the countrys borders in Ladakhs challenging terrain and harsh climate. The LG highlighted the creation of Ladakh as a separate Union Territory in 2019 as a significant milestone in its development journey. He said the administration, with the support of the Centre, has focused on strengthening infrastructure, governance, healthcare, education, tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, water security, connectivity and social welfare. Saxena said five new districts Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar and Drass along with 17 new tehsils and 16 new engineering divisions, have brought administration and public services closer to the people. He also highlighted the ongoing process of establishing Hill Councils in all seven districts to strengthen grassroots democracy. On tourism and connectivity, the LG said Ladakh had received more than 3.30 lakh tourists by the end of July this year, nearly 98 per cent of the total tourist arrivals recorded during the whole of 2025. He said Ladakhs road network has expanded from 1,799 km before the formation of the UT to more than 4,200 km, while the number of bridges has increased from 19 to 72. Projects such as the Zojila Tunnel and Leh Bypass, he said, are further strengthening all-weather connectivity. Emphasising sustainable development, Saxena highlighted initiatives including Project Him Sarovar, Himalayan rock check dams, the Indus River Green Corridor, expansion of tap-water coverage, renewable energy projects and geothermal wells at Puga. He also underlined efforts to strengthen the Pashmina sector, including the Ladakh Pashmina Development Board, incentives for more than 1,200 pashmina producers and an ` 8 crore revolving fund to ensure timely payments. The LG expressed gratitude to farmers, Changpa herders, teachers, doctors, nurses, health workers, engineers and citizens for their contribution to Ladakhs development. He urged the youth to acquire knowledge, embrace innovation and make use of emerging opportunities. Stressing the need to balance development with environmental protection, Saxena said future generations must inherit a Ladakh that is prosperous, peaceful, vibrant and ecologically sustainable. He expressed confidence that Ladakh would continue to contribute to the national goal of Viksit Bharat @2047 with the support of the Centre. The march past featured contingents from the CRPF, RAF, ITBP, CISF, Ladakh Police, Ladakh Police Commando and ex-servicemen, besides NCC cadets from the first and second Ladakh Battalions. Students from schools across Leh, Kargil, Drass, Nubra, Sham, Changthang and Zanskar also participated. A demonstration by the Ladakh Police K-9 Squad and a performance by the Ladakh Police Women Pipe Band were among the highlights. Cultural performances were presented by the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, as well as schools and educational institutions from across the Union Territory. Lieutenant Governors Appreciation Certificates were also conferred on officials and organisations for exemplary work. The family of late Col Sonam Wangchuk (Retd.) received the dPal rNgam Duston Lifetime Achievement Award, while His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa was conferred the dPal rNgam Duston Award 2026. Meanwhile, in Kargil the Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, hoisted the National Flag at Khree Sultan Chow Sports Stadium, Biamathang, Kargil, and took the salute at the march past as the nation marked its 80th Independence Day. The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from contingents of Ladakh Police, the Police Band Party, NCC Cadets, and students from various government and private schools. Prominent dignitaries in attendance included Executive Councillors Aga Syed Mujtaba and Aga Syed Ali; Deputy Commissioner and CEO LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar; Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kargil, Nitin Yadav; Directors of FCS&CA, ULB, Tourism and Education; Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil; ACR Kargil; senior district officers, representatives of religious organisations, and members of the public. On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon extended warm greetings to the people of Kargil and the nation and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and national leaders whose sacrifices paved the way for Indias independence. CEC Kargil said that August 15 is not merely a day of celebration but also an occasion to reaffirm the countrys commitment towards national unity, integrity, peace and development. He said the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and national leaders continue to inspire the nation, and called upon everyone to work collectively for the progress and prosperity of the country. CEC Kargil said that Kargil is not merely a border district but a land where people from different parts of the country live together in harmony. He said Kargil has always been a symbol of the countrys security and sacrifice, with its brave soldiers guarding the nations borders. He paid tribute to the armed forces and said that the younger generation must continue to uphold the spirit of patriotism and national service. Highlighting the importance of development, CEC Kargil said that the administration and the Hill Council are working to make Kargil a developed and self-reliant district by 2047. He said a strong foundation in the education sector is essential for achieving this goal and that the Council has prepared a Kargil District Vision 2047 Vision Document covering various measures for improving the quality of education.

'Scoring off the field:' How football helped two global leaders to achieve their goals

Scoring off the field How football helped two global leaders to achieve their goals

Tourism with a purpose

CSR initiatives can focus on waste management, plastic-free tourism, renewable energy, water conservation, and environmentalCorporate Social Responsibility can play a significant role in strengthening tourism and rural development by encouraging corporates to invest directly in the places where they operate or have a business presence. Corporates can contribute towards preserving local culture and heritage, improving tourism infrastructure, supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs, creating employment opportunities for youth and women, and promoting sustainable practices. Their CSR initiatives can also focus on waste management, plastic-free tourism, renewable energy, water conservation, and environmental protection. By partnering with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and tourism stakeholders, corporates can help ensure that tourism growth benefits the local population while protecting the cultural and natural resources of the destination. In this way, CSR can transform corporate presence into a meaningful contribution towards inclusive, sustainable, and community-led tourism development. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can become a powerful catalyst for sustainable rural tourism by ensuring that tourism development benefits local communities while protecting indigenous culture, conserving the environment, and creating long-term livelihood opportunities. Rather than viewing tourism merely as a commercial activity, CSR can encourage corporates to invest in the social, cultural, economic, and environmental well-being of rural destinations. This approach is closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to poverty reduction, decent work, sustainable communities, responsible consumption, and climate action. The rise of online travel platforms is an irreversible reality, but it should not come at the cost of marginalizing Kashmirs travel agents, who have long been the backbone of the regions tourism industry. Instead of viewing technology as a threat, the focus should be on creating a level playing field where digital innovation strengthens rather than replaces local businesses. The Government, Tourism Department, travel associations, technology companies, and the corporate sector through CSR must work together to digitally empower local travel agents by providing training in digital marketing, online booking systems, artificial intelligence, customer relationship management, and multilingual communication. A dedicated Kashmir Tourism Digital Marketplace should be established to connect registered local travel agents, hotels, houseboats, guides, transport operators, artisans, and rural tourism enterprises directly with tourists, ensuring that a larger share of tourism revenue remains within the local economy. Policies should encourage transparency and fair competition by ensuring online aggregators prominently feature registered local operators while discouraging practices that unfairly disadvantage small businesses. At the same time, local travel agents should focus on offering personalized, authentic, and experience-driven tourism packages that global platforms cannot easily replicate, such as village tourism, cultural immersion, heritage walks, eco-tourism, local cuisine, handicraft trails, and community-based tourism. CSR initiatives can further accelerate this transformation by funding digital infrastructure, technology adoption, skill development, entrepreneurship, and innovation among small tourism enterprises. Such a collaborative approach will not only protect thousands of livelihoods but also strengthen Kashmirs tourism ecosystem by ensuring that economic benefits reach local communities, promote sustainable and responsible tourism, preserve the regions unique cultural heritage, and position Kashmir as a globally competitive yet locally inclusive tourism destination. The future lies not in choosing between technology and local travel agents, but in integrating both so that digital progress becomes a catalyst for inclusive growth, resilience, and long-term prosperity for the people of Kashmir. CSR can support rural tourism by investing in villages with cultural, ecological, and heritage value. Corporate interventions can strengthen basic infrastructure, improve tourism facilities, promote local enterprises, preserve traditional knowledge, and enhance the visitor experience without compromising the authenticity of rural life. One of the greatest strengths of rural tourism is its indigenous identity. CSR can contribute to documenting and promoting local folklore, traditions, festivals, music, oral histories, traditional architecture, foods like WAZWAAN , HAAK , NOONCHAI, KEHWA ETC and indigenous knowledge. It can support artisans involved in handicrafts, handlooms, pottery, wood carving, papier-mch, embroidery, and other traditional crafts. Restoration of heritage homes, community spaces, village museums, and cultural interpretation centres can further preserve local identity. Training young people in traditional skills can ensure that this heritage is transferred to future generations while creating income through cultural tourism. CSR can also strengthen rural livelihoods by training local youth as tourist guides, eco-guides, interpreters, adventure tourism professionals, and hospitality workers. Women-led Self-Help Groups can be supported in food processing, catering, handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and homestay operations. Farmers can benefit from agri-tourism initiatives, while rural entrepreneurs can receive support in business development and market linkages. Such interventions can generate local employment, empower women and youth, reduce migration, and ensure that a greater share of tourism income remains within the community. Sustainable infrastructure is another important area for CSR intervention. Corporates can support eco-friendly public toilets, safe drinking water, solar lighting, walking and cycling trails, visitor information centres, digital connectivity, signage, and facilities for elderly and differently-abled tourists. Such infrastructure must be designed in harmony with local architecture and ecology. A critical challenge of rural tourism is the generation of waste. CSR can help develop Zero Waste Tourism Villages through scientific waste segregation, collection, transportation, composting, recycling, and Material Recovery Facilities. Waste can be segregated into wet, dry, plastic, glass, metal, and e-waste. CSR can also promote plastic-free tourism by supporting refill water stations, reusable bottles, cloth bags, eco-friendly packaging, and awareness campaigns. Through circular economy models, organic waste can be converted into compost, agricultural waste into useful products, and recyclable materials into crafts and souvenirs, thereby turning waste management into a source of livelihood. Community participation is essential for sustainable tourism. CSR can fund awareness campaigns, school eco-clubs, clean-village initiatives, responsible tourism programmes, and volunteer clean-up drives. It can also support biodiversity conservation through afforestation, wetland and river restoration, protection of flora and fauna, conservation of medicinal plants, and responsible eco-tourism. Digital technology can further strengthen rural tourism through websites, mobile applications, social media promotion, QR-based heritage information, online homestay booking, and e-commerce platforms for local products. Capacity-building programmes in hospitality, hygiene, financial literacy, digital marketing, tourist safety, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism can equip local communities to manage tourism professionally For Jammu and Kashmir, CSR can play a transformative role by developing model sustainable tourism villages that showcase the regions natural beauty and cultural heritage while protecting its fragile ecosystems. Corporate investment can support community-owned homestays, preservation of traditional Kashmiri architecture, promotion of Pashmina, papier-mch, walnut wood carving and other crafts, training of local eco-guides, renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, and scientific waste management in valleys, lakes, meadows, and trekking routes. An effective CSR model should bring together government departments, corporates, NGOs, Panchayats, Self-Help Groups, tourism entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and local communities. Such a public-private-community partnership can ensure accountability, local ownership, and long-term sustainability. Ultimately, CSR can transform tourism from a purely commercial activity into a model of inclusive, community-led, culturally sensitive, and environmentally responsible development. By connecting heritage preservation, livelihood creation, sustainable infrastructure, biodiversity conservation, digital promotion, and scientific waste management, CSR can ensure that tourism remains a source of prosperity without destroying the very culture, communities, and landscapes that attract visitors. In addition to it In essence, the goal should not be to fight technology, but to empower Kashmirs travel agents to use technology. Digital platforms should serve as partners that expand market access while preserving local livelihoods, ensuring that tourism continues to benefit Kashmirs communities rather than diverting value away from them. Author is Faculty at JKIMPARD

PM promises jobs for 3.5 crore youth

New Delhi, Aug 15:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify future Olympic athletes, as he positioned India's youth and sporting ambitions at the centre of his vision for a developed nation by 2047. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India's performance in international sport was steadily improving and the country was moving forward as a strong contender to host the 2036 Olympics. He also said India would host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. India's performance in the world of sports is steadily improving, and we are moving forward as strong contenders to host the 2036 Olympics. Bharat is also going to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, he said. The PM said the Olympic Games encompass roughly 40 sports and between 325 and 350 events, but India does not participate in nearly two-thirds of those events because it does not qualify. In nearly two-thirds of these 325 events, Bharat does not even participate. We are not present; we do not qualify, he said, adding that India had decided it wanted the 2036 Olympics to be held in the country and must focus on these areas. We also want to launch a talent-hunt campaign, PM Modi said. He said the campaign would be conducted in villages, cities and schools across the country to identify sporting talent among children aged between 5 and 15. If we need athletes for 2036, we must focus today on these young boys and girls who are 5, 10 or 15 years old. We must pay attention to our daughters as well, the PM said. Children identified through the campaign would have their abilities assessed and receive specialised training to help develop them into athletes capable of representing the country, he said. PM Modi highlighted advances across India's sporting ecosystem, citing the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Khelo India Games, University Games, Winter Games and Beach Games, alongside sports infrastructure, coaching, sports medicine and sports nutrition. The TOPS scheme has achieved tremendous success. Khelo India Games, University Games, Winter Games, Beach Games, sports infrastructure, coaching for sports, sports medicine and sports nutrition, Bharat is moving forward towards achieving excellence in all these areas, he said. The PM said that opportunities were also expanding around sport for young people who may not become athletes themselves. For young people, even if they are unable to become athletes themselves, a vast new field of opportunities is opening up within the support system around sports, he said. PM Modi also announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, a scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore that he said would create new employment opportunities for approximately 3.5 crore youth. Today, on August 15, we are launching and implementing a scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore for the youth of my country, he said. Under the scheme, the government will provide Rs 15,000 to every young person who gets a job in the private sector. Companies that generate more opportunities for new employment will also receive incentives, the PM said. The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana will create new employment opportunities for approximately 3.5 crore youth, he said. PM Modi said young people would be the greatest beneficiaries of his vision of a Viksit Bharat, or developed India, by 2047. If there is one, it is the youth of my country, the youth power of the country. The youth have a very important role to play in the journey towards a 'Viksit Bharat', he said. Therefore, we must take forward the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat' by connecting it with the aspirations and participation of our youth. We must move forward with our youth as our highest priority. The PM also highlighted the expansion of India's startup ecosystem, saying there were now more than 2.5 lakh registered startups under the Startup India initiative. Referring to the government's Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund, he encouraged young entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas. Come forward with your dreams; we will ensure that there is no shortage of resources, PM Modi said. He also announced free online coaching for young people preparing for various examinations, saying the cost of coaching classes had become a major burden for middle-class families. The pressure of coaching classes has become a major burden for our middle-class families, the PM said. Therefore, we have decided to provide free online coaching for young people preparing for various examinations, he said. PM Modi said the initiative would combine India's digital public infrastructure, teaching talent, and teachers to build a nationwide network offering free coaching. We have the digital public infrastructure, we have excellent talent, and we have teachers. By bringing these resources together, we are going to build an extensive network to provide free coaching to the young people of the country, he said. The PM also warned of growing substance abuse among young people and called for a collective national response. Drug abuse is becoming a major crisis for the country and its young people. A 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' must be a collective responsibility for all of us, he said. For the sake of our bright future, our younger generation must be strong, and the strength of our youth must be harnessed for the progress of our country, PM Modi said. The announcements formed part of the PM's broader Independence Day message focused on youth participation, employment, entrepreneurship, education and sport, as well as India's longer-term ambition to become a developed nation by 2047.

Dream big, build developed India: PM Modi

New Delhi, Aug 15:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India can no longer move forward with small dreams and called for high aspirations and firm resolutions for a big leap to build a developed India by 2047. He called for eradicating the mentality of slavery and drawing inspiration from the visions of India held by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Babasaheb Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Birsa Munda and Jyotiba Phule. We can no longer move forward with small dreams. We must dream big, because big dreams expand our thinking. They broaden the horizons of our vision as well, the prime minister said in the 80th Independence Day address from the Red Fort. Our resolutions must be firm, he said, adding that when the resolve is strong, the ability to find a way through difficulties and even in the midst of disasters emerges on its own. Our resolutions must also be high. Because when our dreams are high and our resolutions are high, the heights of our capabilities also rise, PM Modi said. He said Bharat had set a very big dream today, a dream backed by firm resolve, a dream of reaching new heights. And that dream is this: when we complete 100 years of independence in 2047, we will have built a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), he said. Through the efforts and hard work of 140 crore citizens, we must achieve this goal, Modi said. He said when the world's most populous country resolves to become a developed nation, it becomes a symbol of our courage in the eyes of the world The world is compelled to change the way it looks at us, he said. The prime minister said India had remained caught in an attitude of it will happen, things will move along, well see what happens after Independence and had been unable to achieve the required pace. He said that by 2014, the entire world had dumped us among the Fragile Five, but asserted that Bharat has found a new momentum over the past 12 years. We are moving forward rapidly, and the resolve of the people of the country is clear: it is now impossible to stop the determination and capabilities of 140 crore citizens, he said. Referring to his Panch Pran (five pledges), Modi said the five pledges have provided immense strength to the nation and empowered it to move forward with a sense of self-pride and the capability to surpass its goals. Let us reiterate this resolve: The nation's interest must come before our own, and duty must define our identity, Modi said. This is our time, this is our moment, and this is our resolve, he said, calling on citizens to transform dreams into resolve, resolve into capability, and capability into success. Let us together build a developed India, Modi said.

Beijing Emerges as Hub for Humanoid Robot Revolution

Beijing, August 16: China is poised to make a significant leap in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. The focus has shifted from merely developing industrial robots to creating humanoid robots capable of thinking, learning, and performing various tasks in real-world scenarios. To achieve this ambitious goal, Beijing is rapidly developing a comprehensive ... Read more Beijing Emerges as Hub for Humanoid Robot Revolution

CM: Over 6,000 jobs to be created in next 6 months

NT Reporter Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday said the Goa Human Resource Development will create 6,000 to 8,000 jobs in the next six months, and linked the job creation to wider efforts on infrastructure, connectivity and cultural preservation. Addressing the people during the 80th Independence Day celebrations held near the old secretariat, the []

Jellyfish bacterium yields biodegradable polymer

Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji A bacterium living on jellyfish found off the Goa coast has emerged as a promising source of a biodegradable polymer after researchers isolated it from Chrysaora and demonstrated its ability to rapidly produce exopolysaccharide (EPS), a class of biopolymers with potential applications ranging from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals and environmental []

Reservation, representation,and democracy in Goa

As Goa prepares for ST reservation in four Assembly constituencies, questions arise over representation,political opportunity, rotation and whether the system will benefit those most in need MITHIL FALDESAI Four of Goas 40 Assembly constituencies are expected to be reserved for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates in the upcoming election. This is exactly 10% of the Assembly, []

Indias Education Report Card in Light of the Latest UNESCO SDG 4 Scorecard

Indias education story is often narrated through expansion like more schools, higher enrolment, new institutions, digital initiatives and ambitious policy announcements. But the latest UNESCO SDG 4 Scorecard invites more uncomfortable questions. The question is: are our investments and systems doing enough to ensure that children not only enter school, but stay, progress and complete their education? The latest assessment provides important signals that deserve serious reflection by policymakers, educators and the relevant institutions. The 2026 SDG 4 Scorecard, prepared by UNESCOs Institute for Statistics and the Global Education Monitoring Report, assesses countries against the education benchmarks they have set for themselves. It is therefore not simply a ranking of countries or a declaration of success and failure. Rather, it examines whether countries are progressing sufficiently towards their own commitments. UNESCO's assessment places particular emphasis on completion rates and highlights the continuing difficulty of achieving universal completion, particularly at the upper-secondary level. Indias education financing figures deserve particular attention. Public expenditure on education is around 4.1% of GDP. While this technically remains above UNESCOs broad minimum reference threshold of 4%, it is considerably below Indias own aspiration of allocating 6% of GDP to education. The 6% goal, reiterated in the National Education Policy 2020, has long been regarded as essential for strengthening the public education system, improving infrastructure, supporting teachers and ensuring equitable access to quality education. The picture becomes more concerning when education expenditure is measured as a proportion of total government expenditure. Indias latest figure is around 14.2%, below UNESCOs 15% reference threshold and also below Indias own national benchmark of 17% for 2025. This distinction is important. The issue is not simply whether governments are spending more money in absolute terms. It is also about the priority accorded to education within overall public expenditure. A country aspiring to become a knowledge-driven economy cannot afford to treat education as merely another competing budgetary demand. However, financing is only one part of the story. The more fundamental question is what happens to children after they enter school. India has made considerable progress in enrolment, but enrolment alone cannot be the ultimate measure of educational success. A child entering school but leaving before completing secondary education represents an unfinished educational journey. Retention, transition and completion therefore need to become much more central to the way we evaluate the performance of our education system. India had set a national benchmark of 98.5% for lower-secondary completion by 2025, with the ambition of reaching 100% by 2030. UNESCO's assessment indicates that India is not on course to meet the 2025 benchmark. This should concern us because lower secondary is a crucial stage at which many educational journeys begin to diverge. Children facing academic difficulties, poverty, family responsibilities, migration or inadequate support can gradually disengage from schooling and eventually drop out. The challenge becomes even more pronounced at the upper-secondary level. Indias national benchmark was 84% completion by 2025, rising to 88% by 2030. Yet the latest available UNESCO data put India's upper-secondary completion rate at around 63.9% in 2024. The gap between the current position and the national ambition is therefore substantial. Upper-secondary education is particularly important because it connects school education with higher education, vocational training, employability and the broader opportunities available in adult life. These figures should also make us rethink the way we discuss dropout and retention. A dropout number is not merely an administrative statistic. Behind every percentage is a young person whose educational trajectory has been interrupted. The reasons may include poverty, academic difficulty, lack of parental support, distance, migration, family responsibilities, disengagement or the belief that education offers inadequate returns. Addressing these factors requires stronger early-warning systems, academic support, counselling, parent engagement and meaningful pathways towards higher education and employment. India has undoubtedly made significant progress in expanding access to education. The UNESCO Scorecard should therefore not be interpreted as a declaration that India's education system has failed. It should instead be read as an accountability document. Our targets tell us where we intend to go, while the data tell us whether the pace of progress is sufficient. The uncomfortable gap between ambition and outcomes is precisely where serious educational policy must begin. The message is clear. India needs not merely more children entering classrooms, but more children staying, completing and learning. Achieving the ambitions of NEP 2020 and SDG 4 will require sustained public investment, stronger secondary-school retention, better support for vulnerable learners and a sharper focus on completion. The real measure of educational progress is not simply how many children we enrol, but how many we successfully carry to the finish line. (The author is an educationist and columnist based in north Kashmir. He writes extensively on educational, social and youth-related issues. He can be reached at: rayeesmasroor111@gmail.com )

Niche tourism to Konkani AI models: Khaunte

NT Reporter Mapusa Tourism and IT Minister Rohan Khaunte, in his Independence Day address at the Administrative Office in Bardez, outlined thegovernments vision of building a Viksit Goa by balancing economic development with the preservation of the states culture, heritage and identity. Khaunte said tourism would continue to remain the backbone of Goaseconomy, while stressing []

Government weighs PNG drive 3.0 to speed up adoption; launch likely in September

The government is set to launch the PNG Drive 3.0 initiative, designed to expedite gas connections for households and industries alike. Previous drives resulted in heightened PNG adoption due to worries surrounding LPG supply. Officials are currently frustrated with their progress and goals. The ministry is determined to enhance PNG consumption in cities that already have relevant infrastructure.

Confident Of A Podium Finish: India Captain Harmanpreet Singh Sets Clear Goal For Hockey World Cup 2026

India captain Harmanpreet Singh on Saturday expressed satisfaction on his side's 3-1 victory over Wales in the men's Hockey World Cup opener.

Hockey World Cup: Important to start with a good win, says Harmanpreet

India captain Harmanpreet Singh on Saturday expressed satisfaction on his side's 3-1 victory over Wales in the men's Hockey World Cup opener here, saying that it was important to win the first match by a good margin and get full three points. We played very well. Our aim was to create chances and score goals match after match. It doesn't matter who is the man of the match or who is scoring the goals. We just need to score goals. We played with that mindset, Harmanpreet, who scored a brace in the team's win, said after the match. It was important to begin with a good win. We won 3-1 and took three points, which is a good result, he added. Wales scored in the final minutes to deny India a clean sheet, but Harmanpreet said his team would learn from their mistakes in future matches. We tried our best, but they also played well. This was only the first match, and we will try not to make mistakes in future matches. said the ace drag-flicker. India scored all three goals from penal

Quote of the day by Xunzi: 'The person attempting to travel two roads at once will...' - motivational quote by Confucian Chinese philosopher teaches life lessons on choices, focus, why you must not chase too many goals at once and why trying to do everything could leave you nowhere

Quote of the day by Xunzi: Ancient Chinese philosopher Xunzi emphasized the difficulty of pursuing multiple goals simultaneously. He believed that attempting to travel two roads at once leads to nowhere. This ancient wisdom highlights the importance of focused effort for achieving progress.

Quote of the day by George Orwell: 'Power is not a means, it is an end. One does not establish a dictatorship in order to...' - motivational quote by Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty-Four author teaches life lessons on power, authority, leadership, ambition and dangers of absolute control

Quote of the day by George Orwell: George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four warns about power becoming the ultimate goal. His quote highlights that control is sought for its own sake. Orwell, born Eric Blair, explored oppression and totalitarian rule in his works. He experienced colonial rule and the Spanish Civil War firsthand.

Former Tennis Star Roberto Bautista Agut Shines with Two Goals in Football Debut

New Delhi, August 15: Former tennis player and 2019 Wimbledon semifinalist Roberto Bautista Agut made a remarkable entrance into football, scoring two goals in his debut match. The 38-year-old athlete played a crucial role in leading Spains seventh-tier team, CD El Esbarzos, to a 4-2 victory. Just a month after retiring from tennis, Bautista Agut ... Read more Former Tennis Star Roberto Bautista Agut Shines with Two Goals in Football Debut

Gen Z man says NO to Rs 1 crore salary without second thought: Psychology says his logic could be a sign of highly intelligent person

A 25-year-old Gen Z professional reportedly turned down a 1 crore job offer because he did not want to compromise on his mental peace and work environment. The decision has sparked a debate online about how younger workers are redefining career success, while psychology suggests that behaviours such as questioning conventional choices and prioritising long-term goals can often be misunderstood by society.

Hockey World Cup: Harmanpreet Reflects on India's Strong Start

India's men's hockey team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, secured a 3-1 victory over Wales in their Hockey World Cup opener. Harmanpreet, who scored two goals, expressed satisfaction with the win, emphasizing the importance of a strong start. Despite conceding a late goal, the team remains confident and focused on a podium finish.

Karnataka, Bihar, Mizoram Shine in Jr Women's Hockey

On the fourth day of the 16th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2026, Karnataka, Bihar, and Mizoram secured significant victories. Karnataka defeated Uttarakhand 6-1, Bihar beat Goa 6-0, and Mizoram overcame Kerala 2-0. Other matches saw Assam, Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu also win, with Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir receiving forfeit victories.

World Cup hockey: India begins with a solid win over Wales

Captain Harmanpreet nets a brace after Sanjay puts the former champion ahead; Fultons men score all three goals from penalty corners; the European side pulls one back in the final minutes of the Pool-D contest

No proposal for Environmental Clearance pending for Mahadayi: Centre

Karnataka officials argue that an Environmental Clearance is not needed for a drinking water project, and therefore, the question raised by Goa MP in Lok Sabha is irrelevant

No proposal for Environmental Clearance pending for Mahadayi: Centre

Karnataka officials argue that an Environmental Clearance is not needed for a drinking water project, and therefore, the question raised by Goa MP in Lok Sabha is irrelevant

Leopard carries away goat from farm shed near Thalavadi

Python Enters UP Meat Shop To Hunt Goat. Drunk Man Wraps It Around His Neck

The bizarre situation pulled in a large crowd, eager to witness the astonishing incident. Passersby and local shopkeepers stood in awe as they saw the scene unfold.

India beat Wales 3-1 to begin FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a win

India secured a 3-1 victory against Wales in their opening World Cup match. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored two penalty-corner goals to establish an early lead. India extended their advantage to three goals after the break with another penalty-corner conversion. Wales managed to score a consolation goal in the final minutes of play. This win places India at the top of Pool D in the tournament.

Harmanpreet Singh's brace powers India to 3-1 win over Wales in World Cup opener

India began their FIH Hockey World Cup campaign with a strong 3-1 victory over Wales. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals, leading the team's dominant performance. Sanjay opened the scoring for India in the eighth minute of the match. Wales managed to pull one goal back late in the game. India secured three points from their opening Pool D fixture.

CM Naidu calls for collective resolve to build Swarna Andhra by 2047

Highlighting the goal of a Healthy, Wealthy and Happy AP, the Chief Minister says the government has spent 1.50 lakh crore on welfare and 1.34 lakh crore on development in 26 months

Harmanpreet stars as India win Hockey World Cup opener

Captain Harmanpreet Singh's two goals helped India secure a 3-1 victory over Wales in their first match of the men's Hockey World Cup, with Sanjay also contributing to the scoreline.

Goa Government To Create Up To 8,000 Jobs In Next Six Months: Says Pramod Sawant

Goa CM Pramod Sawant announces 6,000 to 8,000 government jobs in six months, along with new infrastructure projects and cultural initiatives.

Goa's Drone Didi Initiative: A Boost For Women Entrepreneurship

Goa has successfully completed its first pilot drone-skilling workshop for 12 women and plans to train 100 women annually under the Goa Drone Didi Training Scheme. This initiative aims to promote drone technology, rural livelihoods, and women-led entrepreneurship, aligning with the Centre's Namo Drone Didi programme.

UCIL aims to boost nuclear fuel supply for India's 100 GW goal by 2047: CMD

Uranium Corporation of India Limited chairman-cum-managing director Dr K Anand Rao on Saturday said UCIL is committed to play a leading role to ensure the supply of nuclear fuel and contribute to the goal of 'Vikshit Bharat' by 2047. Hoisting the tricolour on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day at UCIL premises in Jaduguda, about 30 km from Jamshedpur, Rao said that, on the directive of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, UCIL is committed to play a leading role to ensure supply of nuclear fuel for country's nuclear energy programme and achieve the target of 100 GW nuclear energy to contribute in the vision Vikshit Bharat by 2047. Describing August 15th as the most important day of the glorious history of the country, when we achieved freedom following a long struggle and sacrifices, Rao said India has emerged as a strong and self-dependent nation on the global platform. The public sector unit has been continuously enhancing its mining and processing capacities to achieve thi

Ferran Torres Joins PSG After World Cup Glory with Spain

Paris, August 15: Ferran Torres, the forward who scored the only goal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final for Spain, has officially joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He has signed a contract with the French club that extends until 2031 and will wear the jersey number 9. Torres netted the winning goal against Argentina in ... Read more Ferran Torres Joins PSG After World Cup Glory with Spain

India vs Wales LIVE Score, Men's Hockey World Cup 2026: India On Rampage In 1st Quarter, 2 Goals Up Already | IND 2-0 WAL

India vs Wales LIVE Score, FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Pool D Score and Results: The first quarter is underway in the opening match of the Men's Hockey World Cup between India and Wales.

UCIL eyes bigger uranium output to fuel Indias 100 GW nuclear push

UCIL aims to lead nuclear fuel supply for India's energy program. The company is enhancing mining and processing capacities for this goal. New mining activities are planned in other parts of the country. UCIL will utilize tailing ponds and expand its Tummalapalle plant. Environmental clearances are being sought for the Rohil project in Rajasthan.

Are Indian Careers Judged Before Theyre Even Chosen?

Still chasing Sharma Ji Ka Beta? In India, career choices are often about more than passion. From parents and peers to social status, money and job security, young people can find themselves choosing, or defending, careers based on what society considers respectable.This story explores why some professions continue to command greater respect, how socio-economic background shapes career choices, why women face additional societal pressures, and whether India is slowly moving from What will people say? to What do I actually want?. #CareerChoices #CareerPressure #CareerStatus #SharmaJiKaBeta #IndianYouth #CareerGuidance #ParentalPressure #SocialPressure #CareerSuccess #PassionVsPrestige #CareerGoals #IndianSociety #YouthInIndia #CareerDecisions #NameVsStatus

FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Hero Ferran Torres Joins Paris Saint-Germain

Spain international Ferran Torres, who scored the only goal in last month's World Cup final, signed for two-time Champions League winners Paris Saint Germain from Barcelona on Saturday.

Quote of the day by Arnold Schwarzenegger: I dont believe that most people hate their jobs; they hate not having goals big enough to..., Actor and ex-California Governor's inspirational lesson on why bigger goals can make hard work worthwhile

Arnold Schwarzenegger believes people may not hate their jobs as much as they hate lacking meaningful goals. Drawing from his bodybuilding journey, he says having a clear destination made every workout rewarding because each repetition brought him closer to becoming Mr. Universe. His message highlights how purpose can make difficult work worthwhile, while resilience and repeatedly getting back up are essential to achieving ambitious goals.

Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary emphasizes duty to realise development goals on 80th Independence Day

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PSG sign World Cup final match-winner Torres from Barcelona

Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal for Spain at the World Cup, has joined European champions Paris St-Germain from Barcelona.

Global innovation hub to AI skills training for 1 cr youth: PM Modi outlines nation's tech ambitions

New Delhi, Aug 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday put technology and innovation at the heart of India's growth ambitions, calling for leadership in emerging technologies and announcing AI skilling for one crore youth over the next one year. Addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day, Modi said new frontiers in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space, robotics and data centres are opening up rapidly, and stressed the need for the country to take the lead in technology and innovation. Outlining a seven-point framework for 'Viksit Bharat' - India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 - the PM identified technology and innovation as the third 'shakti' of the Sapta Dhara vision, saying rapid advances in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, space, robotics and data centres are creating new opportunities. Today, the world is one of AI, quantum, space, robotics and data centres. New areas have opened up, the prime minister said. Modi further said India must respond to the challenges posed by emerging technologies by becoming a global innovation hub rather than merely a market for the world. We must become a global hub for innovation, he emphasised. Modi said India had already demonstrated, to the world, its capabilities in UPI and digital public infrastructure, and now needs to emerge as a force in 'digital public technologies'. India must lead in next-generation communications technology. Made-in-India 6G should reach every corner, and that should be our goal, he said. Placing a strong emphasis on preparing India's youth for the artificial intelligence-driven economy, Modi announced a large-scale skilling push. In the coming one year, we will work to provide AI skills training to one crore youth, so that India's youth can lead in the AI era, Modi said. The PM noted that energy security was becoming increasingly critical to India's technological ambitions, with chips, AI and data centres requiring vast amounts of electricity. He identified nuclear energy as a key component of energy security, and said the country is targeting 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, and plans to commission five new reactors this decade. Modi said cybersecurity was becoming a concern for every household. It is a domain of defence that offers an opportunity to harness the capabilities of India's youth, both for the country and the world, he pointed out. The prime minister also pointed to the changing nature of warfare, saying modern conflicts could target critical infrastructure such as refineries, banks and data centres rather than remain confined to borders. He said work on 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra' is progressing rapidly, and further added India's defence exports had risen nearly 50-fold. India's technology companies should aspire to become global leaders, the PM said while also calling for creation of homegrown brands that gain worldwide recognition and become synonymous with the country's identity. Modi said the government is seeking to draw young Indians towards technology from an early age, pointing to more than 10,000 'Atal Tinkering Labs' and the expansion of the startup ecosystem, itself. He also highlighted the achievements by young Indians in launching satellites and rockets. You may have seen how young Indians, averaging just 28 years of age, achieved a global first: they successfully launched their own satellite and rocket on their very first attempt, accomplishing a truly monumental feat, he said. Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 recently became India's first privately-developed rocket to successfully reach orbit, marking a historic milestone for the country's private space sector and commercial launch capabilities.

Modi's Independence Day Call For Tech Leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address, highlighted technology and innovation as central to India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He called for India to lead in emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and space, announcing a massive AI skilling initiative for one crore youth. Modi stressed the importance of becoming a global innovation hub, bolstering energy security with nuclear power, and strengthening cybersecurity.

South Koreas President Lee Proposes Dialogue with North Korea

Seoul, August 15: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has made a significant proposal for dialogue with North Korea. On Saturday, he suggested formally ending the long-standing war between the two nations and initiating discussions on practical ways to halt North Koreas nuclear program. Lee emphasized his goal of establishing a permanent peace framework to replace ... Read more South Koreas President Lee Proposes Dialogue with North Korea

Why life insurance should be part of your financial freedom plan, not an afterthought

Financial freedom requires more than wealth creation. Learn how life insurance, emergency savings and disciplined SIP investing can protect family finances, support long-term goals and build a stronger financial plan against unexpected life events.

5 lakh investment plan: How to allocate your money wisely by age, risk and financial goals

Learn how to invest 5 lakh wisely at different ages with a practical asset allocation strategy covering equity, mutual funds, fixed deposits, gold and liquidity, while balancing risk, financial goals, family responsibilities and long-term wealth creation.

CJI Surya Kant wishes India stronger and brighter future on Independence Day

Chief Justice Surya Kant extended Independence Day greetings and wished for India's progress. Prime Minister Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort while addressing the nation. He expressed strong confidence that India will become a developed nation by 2047. The Prime Minister urged citizens to dream big and work towards realizing this goal. The recitation of 'Vande Mataram' at Red Fort was noted as a historic moment.

PM ModisIndependence Day 2026 speech: Here are the key announcements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlines key initiatives aimed at achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047, says India must focus on key sectors, including digital technologies and nuclear energy

Goa CM Pramod Sawant urges youth to lead India

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On Independence Day, Telangana CM pitches welfare as dignity

Hyderabad:Telangana is moving towards its goal of becoming a USD 3 trillion economy, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said on Saturday, August 15, while delivering his Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Golconda Fort in Hyderabad. Reddy asserted that the states per capita income now stands nearly 91 per cent above the national Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Committed to goal of J&Ks State restoration, its constitutional guarantees: Omar

M.r Abdullah said the people in PoK would have been fighting to join Jammu and Kashmir if the Centre had not revoked the special constitutional guarantees in 2019

Mohan Bhagwat says many forces working against India's 'Vishwaguru' goal

Addressing a gathering at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur after hoisting the Tricolour on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Bhagwat urged people to strengthen the nation without compromising on its core principles and to confront challenges facing the country

Goa man loses his clogs among hundreds of pairs outside Mahakal Temple, ChatGPT helps him spot them

A Goa-based man found an unexpectedly high-tech solution after losing his clogs among the rows of footwear outside Mahakal Temple in Ujjain. Instead of searching through the crowded shoe racks himself, he turned to ChatGPT...

PM Modi sets target of 6 crore Lakhpati Didis on Independence Day, hails womens role in nation-building

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new goal for six crore women to become Lakhpati Didis. This initiative aims to significantly transform the rural economy by empowering women. The government has already surpassed its previous target of three crore Lakhpati Didis. Women's increasing leadership roles across various sectors were highlighted by the Prime Minister.

Many people, forces working against India

Nagpur, Aug 15 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat, on Saturday asserted that many people and internal/external forces are actively working against Indias goal of becoming a global leader and are creating hurdles. He urged citizens to confront these challenges head-on and gave a call to strengthen Indias independence by making the nation []

80 years of food security, the next step: Building a nutrition-secure rural India

The goal should not be to ensure that every rural household has enough food in terms of calories, but the food available is diverse, nutritious, safe, affordable and sustainable

Committed to goal of J-K's state restoration, its constitutional guarantees: Omar

Srinagar, Aug 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said his government is committed to restoring the statehood and other constitutional guarantees to Jammu and Kashmir, which were revoked in August 2019. Our government is committed to restoring statehood and constitutional guarantees, and put Jammu and Kashmir on the path of development. We will work to fulfil these goals, Abdullah said in his Independence Day speech here. Referring to the protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), the chief minister said the situation has vindicated the National Conference founder Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah and his colleagues' decision to fight the Pakistan-backed tribal invaders in 1947. When I see the situation across the border, I realise that our ancestors who said 'hamlavar khabardar, hum Kashmiri hain tayyar' (attackers beware, we Kashmiris are prepared) were right, he said. Master Abdul Aziz, the NC leader, was killed in Muzaffarabad for trying to stop the attack, he said. Abdullah said the people in PoJK would have been fighting to join Jammu and Kashmir if the Centre had not revoked the special constitutional guarantees in 2019. We have kept seats vacant for the other side in the hope that some day these will be filled, he added.

French proverb of the day: To want is to Why consistency and perseverance need to fuel your efforts toward big goals in life

Strong determination helps individuals overcome obstacles and achieve difficult goals. The French proverb highlights this powerful concept. This saying emphasizes that wanting something fuels the effort needed for success. Persistence is crucial when progress slows or setbacks occur. Determination turns intentions into actions and drives progress toward desired outcomes.

Seven Growth Priorities, Self-Reliance Push And Viksit Bharat 2047 Goal: Key Takeaways From PM Modi's Independence Day 2026 Speech

50 Fortune 500 firms, Indian bank in top 5 and more: PM Modi sets global goals on Independence Day

Goa man loses his clogs at Ujjain temple, uses ChatGPT to spot them in shoe pile

Goa man loses his clogs at Ujjain temple uses ChatGPT to spot them in shoe pile

Goa CM Pramod Sawant hoists flag on 80th Independence Day

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Shikhar Dhawans good times in Goa

Dhawan, who played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is for India, shared this picture of the trio chilling at a beach in Goa with his 19.8 million Instagram followers

Prisha strikes as Scottish girls beat Cathedral to win U-16 title

Prisha Gupta scored the decisive goal in the 12th minute, calmly tapping home from close range to give Bombay Scottish the lead

'Want India to host 2036 Olympics': PM Modi outlines goals for sports sector, announces launch of talent hunt

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the crowd in the Independence Day speech and outlined the various goals that the country is looking forward to in the sports sector. Setting an ambitious target for India in...

India Aims for Developed Nation Status by 2047, Says PM Modi

New Delhi, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the commitment to transforming India into a developed nation by 2047, marking a century of independence. He emphasized that this goal can be achieved through the collective efforts of 1.4 billion citizens. A nation becomes great when it ... Read more India Aims for Developed Nation Status by 2047, Says PM Modi

Modi's I-Day speech: Viksit Bharat will be realised by 2047

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 80th Independence Day address, expressed strong confidence that India will become a developed nation by 2047, urging citizens to dream big and work towards this goal.

PM Modi reaffirms Viksit Bharat goal for 2047 in Independence Day 2026 speech, calls it India's 'grand dream'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15 as India marked its 80th Independence Day. The ceremony carried a special significance this year, with the National...

China Completes 582-Tonne Magnet For 'Artificial Sun', Eyes Fusion Power By 2030

China has completed a record 582-tonne superconducting magnet for its Artificial Sun fusion project, a major step toward its goal of demonstrating fusion-powered electricity generation by 2030.

Independence Day 2026 LIVE: PM Modi to deliver 13th address from Red Fort today, set Viksit Bharat goals

India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day on August 15 with patriotic fervour, elaborate ceremonies and heightened security arrangements across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the national celebrations from the Red Fort...

Morning Digest: President stresses Viksit Bharat goal by 2047, lauds youth and women empowerment in I-Day eve address; Mahua Moitra claims ordered to vacate circuit house, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

J&K youth must ensure mistakes of past are never repeated: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 14:The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today attended the solemn observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The event was marked by collective remembrance and a reaffirmation of national unity. In his address on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor paid heartfelt tribute to all those citizens who endured unimaginable suffering during the partition of 1947 and whose sacrifices continue to inspire generations. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the wound of partition continues to exist as a pain in the collective consciousness of every Indian. Decades after the partition, their sacrifice reminds us that the wound remains unhealed, lingering as a generational pain in Indias collective soul. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, we are not merely recalling the past but we are giving voice to those millions whose voices were taken away from them. I wish to reiterate with firm resolve that we will not allow their pain to be buried in the dust of history. Remembering them is fulfilling our duty towards humanity. We will preserve their memories. Remembering them with complete truthfulness, honesty, and utmost sensitivity is the most sacred tribute. I believe that their stories are an indelible chapter of our national consciousness, and their sacrifice will forever remain alive in the soul of Mother India, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the people of UT of Jammu and Kashmir to treat this day as an occasion of introspection and national resolve. He called upon the youth, farmers, workers, and women to rise with courage and determination, to turn the pace of time towards progress and harmony. The Lieutenant Governor praised the resilience of people who rebuilt their lives with courage and enriched the countrys social fabric and cultural heritage with historic traditions and values. Todays occasion is an opportunity to acknowledge the pain of the past and strengthen our unwavering commitment to peace, harmony and national unity. This day reminds us that only the lessons of history can make the future secure and humane, the Lieutenant Governor said. He noted that the partition divided families and displaced communities from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Chhamb. He paid tribute to those who faced decades-long discrimination within the UT due to Article 370. The Lieutenant Governor said that Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ended their suffering and granted them equal rights like any other citizen of the country. The Lieutenant Governor also paid tribute the countless families who sacrificed during the tribal invasion months after partition. Within a few months of partition, enemies of the nation carried out terror attack under the cover of tribal invasions. Indian army and people fought bravely. The struggle and sacrifice of countless families are an integral part of the collective memory of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, I humbly pay tribute to the patience, hard work, and unbroken patriotism of all those families, he said. Addressing the youth, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that partition is not merely history but a living memory of millions of families. He urged them to learn from the experiences of the past, to reject enmity and communal bitterness, and to build bridges of trust. He called upon them to construct a developed India that is inclusive and empowered. The youth of Jammu Kashmir must ensure that the mistakes of the past are never repeated in the future. Where walls were once raised, you must build bridges of trust and construct a Viksit Bharat that is inclusive, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor reminded the gathering that Indias strength lies in its diversity. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Gujarat to Goa, from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh, India is a confluence of languages, cultures, traditions, and beliefs, he said. Through partition, enemies of the nation tried to destroy this spirit of unity in diversity, but India has continuously moved forward with pride and confidence. We must take a pledge to acquaint future generations with the pain of partition, to strengthen peace and harmony, and to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated. Building a self-reliant Jammu Kashmir is a shared duty and national unity remains the bedrock of our strength, security and collective progress, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor visited the photo exhibition on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. A Two- minute silence was observed in memory of those who lost their lives during the Partition of India.

Indus Water Treaty suspension decisive step in national interest: President Murmu

New Delhi, Aug 14:President Droupadi Murmu on Friday described the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan as a decisive step in the national interest, especially the farmers. She also invoked Kargil Vijay Diwas and Operation Sindoor while outlining Indias security priorities in her address on the eve of the 80th Independence Day. Suspension of the IWT with the country that harbours terrorism is a decisive step in the interest of our nation, especially the farmers, Murmu said. The Presidents remarks came while recalling the countrys response to terrorism and the unmatched valour of the armed forces. We take pride in our tradition of overcoming the forces hostile to humanity, for upholding truth and justice. On July 26, we observed Kargil Vijay Diwas. Earlier, on the May 7, we commemorated the completion of one year since the launch of Operation Sindoor. We remembered the unmatched valour of our Armed Forces, she said. That historic operation against terrorism demonstrated the capability of the Indian armed forces to act with precision. It sent a clear and firm message to terrorists and those who support them, that no matter where they hide, they will have to face the consequences of their actions, Murmu said. She then linked the security response to the decision on the IWT, calling its suspension a decisive step in the national interest, particularly for farmers. The President said India takes pride in its tradition of overcoming forces hostile to humanity and upholding truth and justice. She also said making India Naxal-free was a major achievement after Naxalism had posed a serious challenge to the nation for decades. Today, enthusiasm prevails in the areas once affected by Naxalism. All-inclusive development is underway in these regions. A large number of players took part in the Bastar Olympics, and many artists showcased their talent in BastarPandum, which were enjoyed by large number of people, she said. Murmu also highlighted Indias cultural and historical heritage, saying 12 forts built to safeguard national pride and associated with the Maratha military tradition were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List last year. And, this year, Sarnath, the site of Bhagwan Buddha's first sermon, has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. On the one hand, Bharat Bhoomi has monuments of spirituality associated with Bhagwan Buddha. It also has symbols of our impressive ability to fight for preserving our pride and glorious traditions, on the other, she said. The President opened her address by greeting citizens on the eve of Independence Day and said the country was about to enter the 80th year since Independence. She said all Indians, both in the country and abroad, celebrate the national festival with joy, with the tricolour serving as the symbol of freedom. On August 15, 1947, Bharat Mata was liberated from the shackles of subjugation. Every citizen became an architect of the destiny of Independent India, Murmu said. She said the true meaning of freedom lay in ensuring that all citizens could utilise opportunities to fulfil their aspirations and work towards making India the foremost nation in the world. Murmu credited students and teachers, scientists and engineers, doctors and healthcare workers, workers and farmers with contributing to nation-building. She also acknowledged sportspersons, craftspersons and artists, intellectuals, workers in private and public sectors, peoples representatives, judicial officials, civil servants, investors, social workers and SafaiMitra. Numerous citizens engaged in various other activities, and every citizen who faithfully discharges the Fundamental Duties enshrined in our Constitution, are active partners in our nation-building process, she said. The President specially commended soldiers of the three armed forces and police personnel for their unwavering dedication to duty. She also praised the Indian diaspora and officials serving in Indian embassies for enhancing the countrys prestige and honour globally. Murmu said India was moving towards building Viksit Bharat by the centenary year of Independence in 2047. Guided by the spirit of Antyodaya, it is our resolve to ensure that the fruits of development reach every individual, she said, adding that India was moving forward by embracing its rich heritage and the ideals of the freedom movement while pursuing modern development. She invoked the Ved-Vakya, 'VayamRashtreJagriyam', saying it inspires citizens to always remain ready to serve the nation. Recalling the freedom struggle, Murmu said people with diverse ideologies had been united by the common goal of Indias Independence. During the Swadeshi Movement, VandeMataram became a song of the masses, she said, while recalling the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar. I humbly bow to all those great sons and daughters of Bharat Mata whose ideals guided our country to its freedom and its progress thereafter, she said. Referring to August 14 as Vibhajan Vibheeshika Smriti Divas, Murmu said the country solemnly remembered the lakhs of Indians who lost their lives in violence resulting from Partition or were forced to endure displacement. Lakhs of people had to become refugees due to communal violence and endure the horrors of partition. Yet, they did not give up their identity, she said. She said that at the time of Independence, India faced not only the grave consequences of Partition but also the extraordinary challenge of unifying more than 550 princely states with the newly independent country. Murmu paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, saying he had ended the system of kingdoms and integrated the princely states into independent democracy. On behalf of a grateful nation, I pay my respectful tributes to the sacred memory of the sculptor of the unity of modern India, Lauh Purush Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, she said. Turning to democracy and the Constitution, the President said the Constitution framed by the people of India rested on the foundation of peoples participation. She said public participation had always been inherent in the people of India, the cradle of democracy, and that citizens were continuing the tradition with renewed vigour. National campaigns are being implemented through active participation of the people. This is an inspiring achievement of our democracy, Murmu said. She said equality of status and opportunity, along with dignity of the individual, were among the cherished ideals of the Constitution. People from ordinary backgrounds, she said, were making extraordinary contributions in many fields, strengthening her belief that everyone in todays Bharat could dream big and realise those dreams. Murmu said the Constitution clearly laid down the responsibilities of the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary. Giving voice to the aspirations of people was the duty of their representatives in the legislature, she said, while the Executive was responsible for implementing policies serving the interests of the nation and its people. She said those associated with the judicial system had a duty to ensure that no one was deprived of justice due to lack of resources. All citizens, especially those belonging to deprived sections of the society, should have equal access to timely justice with dignity, she said. On Indias development over the past little more than a decade, Murmu said the country had witnessed rapid and inclusive development, priority to harmonising heritage and development, and removal of numerous decades-old obstacles to development. She referred to the 200th birth anniversary of Mahatma JyotibaPhule and said Mahatma Phule and Kranti-JyotiSavitribaiPhule had made historic contributions to social justice, education, womens empowerment and equality. Following their ideals, she said, upliftment of deprived sections had been given priority at the national level during the past few years. New standards had been set in womens education, she said. More than 25 crore people, according to Murmu, had been lifted out of poverty. Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan DhanYojana, described by her as the worlds largest programme of financial inclusion, nearly 59 crore account holders had joined the banking system, including more than 32 crore women. Food security had been ensured for more than 80 crore people through free rations, she said. Under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana, free healthcare coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per year had been provided to 60 crore people, she said. Kisan Samman Nidhi and Kisan Credit Cards, she added, had supported farmers involved in farming, dairy, poultry, fisheries and beekeeping. Murmu said world history demonstrated that development rooted in a strong sense of cultural identity was both rapid and sustainable. There is a growing awareness in the country that a sense of cultural pride bolsters the inner strength of the nation, she said. She said Indias ancestors had passed on a rich legacy of learning, science, art and culture, spirituality and virtuous conduct, adding that the country was moving forward while harmonising heritage and development. On technology, Murmu said India had developed the worlds largest and best digital infrastructure. Digital payments, she said, were now common even in small rural shops and among street vendors, while more than half of the worlds real-time digital transactions took place in India. Together, the people of India and the Government have presented an example of digital revolution to the global community, she said. The government, she said, was using technology to provide welfare benefits to people transparently. The country had also witnessed unprecedented expansion of modern infrastructure in highways, waterways, railways and airways, she said, adding that this was creating opportunities for new enterprises, generating employment and boosting investor confidence. On the global situation, Murmu said warfare and instability in several parts of the world were affecting every country. Even in such trying circumstances, our economy is moving ahead as the fastest growing major economy in the world, she said. According to economic projections, she said, Indias growth rate was expected to be more than twice the average global growth rate. The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, she said, had further strengthened the foundation of Indias economic progress and national security. Murmu said India was also playing a leading global role in protecting the environment while pursuing modern development. The country had achieved some of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 ahead of schedule, she said, adding that renewable energy development had gained unprecedented momentum over the past few years. On foreign policy, the President said national interest was its foundation. Peace, cooperation, dialogue, and the ideal of VasudhaivaKutumbakam are the pillars of our foreign policy, she said. India had entered into Free Trade Agreements with many countries to enhance economic cooperation and strengthen mutual relations, she said. The country was playing a leading role among nations of the Global South and had grown in stature on the global stage. Murmu said India believed in a rules-based international order and was endeavouring to ensure that the global community received appropriate representation in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations. This endeavour of our country has been getting strong support from many countries, she said. Turning to environmental protection, Murmu said future generations had as much right over natural resources as the present generation. We must ensure that none of our actions result in the slightest encroachment upon the exercise of this right by future generations, she said. She called for efforts to leave richer bounties of nature for future generations, saying conservation of the environment was integral to Indias tradition. The President cited a Santali song written by Pandit Raghunath Murmu: Dare GujugKanNyelTe, Miru Cheney Rag BayahaDayaHayaGe; Gujug Kan Apowag Jati Dharam Dare, Chedag Babon Rag Bayaha Abo Ana NyelTe. She explained that the song describes an inconsolable parrot crying in grief after seeing a tree completely dried up. O my dear brothers! The parrot wails on seeing a dying tree. O my brothers! Why do we, human beings, not grieve when the tree of human culture is being destroyed? she said, explaining the message of the song. The message, she said, was that everyone must remain committed to preserving nature and human values. A lush green tree symbolizes the moral ideals and wellbeing of human society, Murmu said. She called for individual and collective efforts to protect the environment in the spirit of campaigns such as EkPedMaaKeNaam and Lifestyle for Environment, or LiFE. The President then highlighted the growing participation and achievements of women. She said it gave her immense pleasure to see girls performing exceptionally well in education and noted that womens participation was increasing across diverse sectors, from Drone Didi, who contributes to agricultural productivity, to Fighter Combat Leaders in the Air Force. In the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, women won eight of Indias total tally of 13 gold medals, she said. Murmu said women were increasingly achieving economic self-reliance, with more than 10 crore women being members of Self Help Groups. A target had been set to create three crore Lakhpati Didis, and that target had been achieved, she said. Now our country is moving towards the goal of creating 3 crore new LakhpatiDidis, she said. About two-thirds of entrepreneurs who had received financial assistance under the MUDRA Yojana were women, Murmu said. Along with economic self-reliance, women were also increasingly occupying leadership positions in many fields, she said. The President said it was a remarkable achievement of the democratic republic that the number of women exercising their right to vote was growing. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam had been enacted in 2023 with the objective of reserving 33 per cent representation for women in the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies, she said. Achieving the objectives of this Act will enhance women's role in leadership and make our democracy more inclusive, Murmu said. The President also placed strong emphasis on Indias youth. She said 65 percent of the countrys population was below the age of 35 and described the young population as the countrys most valuable asset. The youth of our country are talented, committed, and skilled, she said. Murmu said she had seen innovative and practical solutions developed by young people to address challenges at the grassroots level. This reflects the dedication of our youth to society and the nation, she said. A new phase of space exploration, she said, had been ushered in through a recent successful rocket launch by a young team whose average age was only 28 years. Many young people, she said, were embracing a culture of job creation through self-employment. The participation of young entrepreneurs had created a strong start-up ecosystem, while major global enterprises were impressed by the talent and dedication of Indian youth and were entrusting them with leadership roles. Such young achievers have enhanced the reputation of India's youth power across the world. Our younger generations strengthen my faith in India's bright and prosperous future, she said. Murmu described students as the architects of Indias future and said government and society must remain united to safeguard their present and future. Public examinations, she said, were gateways to opportunities for students and the Government was undertaking comprehensive reforms to make examinations more transparent, secure and trustworthy while completely curbing unfair means. She said government initiatives and emerging economic activities were opening a wide range of new avenues for youth. By exploring such new opportunities, our young people can embark on new paths to success, she said. Physical and mental wellbeing of youth, Murmu added, formed the cornerstone of Indias future, with families and society also sharing responsibility for motivating young people. Sports, she said, were being adopted as a medium for youth development and nation-building. Under Khelo India, the sports ecosystem was being developed across the country from grassroots to national level, while the Government was making unprecedented investments to promote sports. These efforts are yielding good results. In international sports tournaments, there has been a remarkable leap in the performance and achievements of our sportspersons, she said. While India had the worlds largest young population, the number of senior citizens was also rising, Murmu said. The government had taken several initiatives to improve their quality of life. About six crore senior citizens aged 70 years and above could avail themselves of free healthcare services of up to Rs 5 lakh per year, she said. Society as a whole should be sensitive towards senior citizens, fostering a sense of belonging towards them and upholding their self-respect, Murmu said. Concluding the security-related portion of her address, the President reiterated that India took pride in overcoming forces hostile to humanity and upholding truth and justice. She recalled Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed on July 26, and the completion of one year since the launch of Operation Sindoor, commemorated on May 7. She said the country had remembered the unmatched valour of its armed forces. Murmu said Operation Sindoor had demonstrated the capability of the Indian Armed Forces to act with precision and sent a clear and firm message to terrorists and their supporters that no matter where they hide, they will have to face the consequences of their actions. The President said the development and wellbeing of every Indian was the real objective of building Viksit Bharat. Quoting Telugu nationalist writer Gurajada Apparao, she said: Desamunupreminchumanna, manchiannadipenchumanna; Desamantemattikaadoy, desamantemanushuloy. She explained the essence of the lines as: Love your country, foster goodness; A nation is not just its land, a nation is all its people. Murmu said it was her belief that with the participation of society and efforts of the government, people in every village, town, and household across India would become healthier, happier, and prosperous. With this all-inclusive spirit of patriotism, let us devote ourselves to the sacred national goal of transforming Swatantra Bharat into Viksit Bharat, she said.

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