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In a proud moment for the state of Odisha and the nation, Rajat Kumar Panda has been honored with the prestigious Bharat Seva Puraskar 2025, conferred by the Bharat Seva Society. This national-level award recognizes his exceptional and sustained contributions to the field of social work, as well as his efforts in promoting India’s cultural heritage through literature. Known for his tireless commitment to social justice and community welfare, Rajat Kumar Panda has made a significant impact in the lives of marginalized and underprivileged communities in Odisha. Over the years, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives focused on empowerment, education, health, and social inclusion, working at the grassroots level to create meaningful change. Whether advocating for the rights of the poor, organizing welfare programs, or supporting women and children in vulnerable situations, Panda has shown an unwavering dedication to the betterment of society. What sets Panda apart is not only his work on the ground but also his ability to blend cultural identity with modern social reform. A deeply spiritual individual, he is also an accomplished author, having written a compelling book dedicated to Lord Jagannath, the revered deity of Odisha and a symbol of unity, tradition, and devotion in Hinduism. His literary work is more than just a religious tribute—it serves as an educational resource that introduces readers to the spiritual, historical, and cultural significance of Lord Jagannath and the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Through his book, Rajat Kumar Panda emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural narratives in an era of rapid modernization. He believes that true progress must be rooted in an understanding of one's cultural identity, and that stories, traditions, and beliefs play a crucial role in shaping the moral and ethical foundation of society. By sharing the story of Lord Jagannath, Panda hopes to inspire future generations to embrace their heritage while working towards a more inclusive and equitable society. The Bharat Seva Puraskar is one of the highest recognitions given by the Bharat Seva Society, celebrating individuals who demonstrate exceptional service to the nation through humanitarian, cultural, and educational efforts. Panda’s recognition is a reflection of the broad impact of his work, which spans both practical social service and the intellectual promotion of Indian values and traditions. Community members, fellow social workers, and literary enthusiasts across Odisha have expressed deep admiration for Panda’s achievements. Many consider him a role model, whose life exemplifies the power of compassion, cultural pride, and civic responsibility. As Rajat Kumar Panda continues his mission—uplifting the disadvantaged and promoting cultural literacy—he remains a symbol of hope and inspiration. His dual contributions to society through activism and authorship demonstrate the profound influence that one dedicated individual can have in shaping both communities and consciousness.

In a moment of pride for the academic and cultural community of India, Dr. Rohita Kumar Dash has been awarded the prestigious Rashtra Seva Puraskar 2025 by the Bharat Seva Society. This esteemed recognition is a testament to his lifelong dedication to social upliftment through the medium of education, with a special emphasis on student welfare and the revival of Sanskrit—a cornerstone of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Dr. Dash, who serves as the Principal of Swami Sivananda Sanskrit College in Nuapada, Deogarh, Odisha, has long been a guiding light in the field of education. Under his leadership, the college has become a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development, blending modern pedagogy with timeless spiritual values. His unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds has earned him respect not only in Odisha but across the country. One of Dr. Dash’s most notable contributions is his innovative integration of spiritual and moral education into the traditional academic framework. By promoting Sanskrit as more than just a language, he has helped students connect with India’s ancient wisdom and values, fostering a deeper sense of identity and purpose among youth. His approach encourages students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually, creating a balanced and enriched educational experience. The Rashtra Seva Puraskar, one of the highest honors conferred by the Bharat Seva Society, is awarded to individuals who have shown exemplary service to the nation through humanitarian, educational, or cultural endeavors. Dr. Dash's receipt of this award highlights the importance of his mission—bringing Sanskrit back into mainstream education and using it as a tool for cultural revival and personal growth. Beyond his administrative acumen, Dr. Dash is celebrated for his grassroots efforts to promote the Sanskrit language in rural and underserved communities. Through workshops, public lectures, and academic collaborations, he has mobilized both students and teachers to view Sanskrit not as a relic of the past, but as a living, evolving language that continues to offer insights into philosophy, science, and literature. His passion has inspired many young scholars to pursue studies in Sanskrit and contribute to its continued relevance in the modern world. Local leaders, educationalists, and cultural organizations across Odisha have expressed admiration and support for Dr. Dash’s work. Many see his achievements as a model for how education can be used as a transformative tool for individual empowerment and cultural preservation. As India continues to modernize, voices like Dr. Rohita Kumar Dash remind us of the importance of staying rooted in cultural values while striving for progress. The Rashtra Seva Puraskar 2025 not only honors his past accomplishments but also serves as encouragement for continued efforts in enriching the educational and cultural landscape of India. Dr. Dash’s journey is an inspiring story of vision, dedication, and service—one that underscores the power of education to shape both individuals and society.

The Madrasa Board in Uttarakhand is set to become history as Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh has approved the Uttarakhand Minority Education Bill, 2025. With the implementation of this Bill, all Madrasas operating in the state will now be required to obtain recognition from the Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority and affiliation with the Uttarakhand School Education Board. This move is expected to be a milestone in making the state’s education system more uniform, inclusive, and modern.   Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described the decision as historic, stating that it will bring revolutionary changes in the field of education in Uttarakhand. He said, our goal is that every child in the state, regardless of their class or community, should progress with equal education and opportunities. He further informed that starting from the academic session in July 2026, all minority schools will provide education based on the national curriculum and the New Education Policy. This will not only raise the standard of education but also give students the opportunity to be part of the mainstream.   Under this Bill, Madrasas will now have to register under the Uttarakhand Board, and it will be mandatory to include subjects like science, mathematics, and social science in their curriculum. Emphasis will also be placed on modern technical education and vocational training. This step will help empower students from minority communities for a better future. With this decision, Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to abolish the Madrasa Board and integrate minority educational institutions into the mainstream education system.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi NCR today. Under the influence of an intense western disturbance, heavy to very heavy rainfall and hailstorms are likely in Northwest India today. The weather agency also predicted heavy rainfall over Parts of North East, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Uttarakhand. The Met department has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds over Bihar, Chhattisgarh, East Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Kerala Mahe, Konkan, Goa, and Madhya Maharashtra for the next two to three days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Asia’s Premier Telecom & Tech Event, India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, in the national capital tomorrow. The four-day mega event will be held from October 8 to 11 at New Delhi’s Yashobhoomi Convention Centre. The theme of the event is “Innovate to Transform,” and IMC 2025 aims to promote self-reliance and Atmanirbhar Bharat in the fields of telecommunications and digital technology. The key focus areas will include the 6G ecosystem, cybersecurity, satellite communication, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and telecom manufacturing. Ahead of the upcoming event, Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia visited the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 venue at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, yesterday to review the final preparations. According to the Ministry of Communications, the event is expected to attract over 1.5 lakh visitors, more than 7,000 global delegates and over 400 exhibitors. The IMC 2025 will feature six major global summits, each representing the frontiers of digital innovation. These include the International Bharat 6G Symposium, which will showcase India’s leadership in 6G research through the Bharat 6G Alliance.

Vice President and Chairman of Rajya Sabha, C P Radhakrishnan, is slated to meet floor leaders of different parties, including Opposition parties, today, marking his first formal interaction as Chairman of the Upper House with the elected representatives. The meeting is a precursor to the Winter Session of Parliament, likely to begin next month. The VP’s formal meeting with floor leaders may also feature discussions on the smooth functioning of the House during the upcoming session.    Mr Radhakrishnan, the candidate nominated by the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), was elected as the 15th Vice President of India on September 9 and assumed charge on September 12. Yesterday, the Vice-President visited the Rajya Sabha Secretariat. During the visit, he interacted with the officials of the Secretariat and reviewed its functioning, including its role in providing legislative, administrative, and procedural support to the House and its Members.

Dr. J. Sharmila Christy, an eminent educationist and school leader from Telangana, has been conferred with the prestigious Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025  by the Veyil Foundation. This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to the field of education, where she has established herself as a transformative figure over a career spanning more than 25 years. A PhD holder in Zoology, Dr. Christy has built a reputation for academic excellence and visionary leadership. Her teaching journey has encompassed a wide spectrum of curricula including Matriculation, SSC, CBSE, Cambridge, and Edexcel. Her vast experience and subject mastery have made her a formidable educator and a respected leader in the academic world. Dr. Christy’s career is marked not only by longevity but also by a rich diversity of professional experiences across India, the United Arab Emirates, and the Maldives. This international exposure has imbued her with a global perspective and cultural sensitivity—qualities that have significantly enhanced her ability to lead and mentor in multicultural and multilingual educational settings. At the core of Dr. Christy's philosophy is a commitment to inclusive and innovative education. She is known for implementing teaching methodologies that emphasize creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Her classrooms have always been spaces where learning is both engaging and empowering. As a Principal, she has been instrumental in fostering academic excellence while also nurturing the holistic development of her students. Under her stewardship, numerous institutions have witnessed significant improvements in student performance, teacher training, and overall school culture. Her leadership style is rooted in empowerment, encouraging both students and educators to reach their full potential. Dr. Christy is widely praised for her ability to build cohesive academic communities where learning thrives and excellence is the standard. The Rabindra Ratna Puraskar  awarded by the Veyil Foundation is a significant recognition in the field of arts, literature, and education, named in honor of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Receiving this award places Dr. Christy among a distinguished group of visionaries who have left an indelible mark on their respective domains. Upon receiving the award, Dr. Christy expressed gratitude to her mentors, colleagues, and students, noting that her journey has been one of continuous learning and growth. She reiterated her belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities, and pledged to continue her efforts in shaping the future of young minds. Dr. J. Sharmila Christy’s recognition with the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar stands as a testament to her lifelong dedication, intellectual rigor, and enduring impact on education. Her journey continues to inspire educators across the globe, highlighting the profound influence a passionate teacher can have on generations to come.

Late Acharya Parshuram Thakur Brahmvadi, a revered scholar hailing from Bhagalpur in Bihar, India, has recently received the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025, an accolade presented by the Veyil Foundation. This award serves as a recognition of his remarkable contributions to Indian history and culture, underscoring the profound impact of his extensive research. It not only celebrates his unwavering commitment to scholarship but also emphasizes the significance of his discoveries in shaping our understanding of India's historical narratives. Over a remarkable span of fifty years, Acharya Parshuram has engaged in meticulous and innovative research that has transformed the way we perceive ancient Indian civilization. One of his most groundbreaking assertions is that the Aryans' original homeland was Anga Desh, a historical region that includes parts of what we now know as Bihar and Jharkhand. In addition to this, he has proposed that Angika was the Aryans' original language, a claim that has ignited considerable interest and debate among historians and linguists. His research not only challenges long-standing beliefs but also encourages a fresh examination of the cultural and linguistic heritage of the region. By presenting these ideas, Acharya Parshuram invites scholars and enthusiasts alike to reconsider the narratives that have shaped our understanding of Indian history. The scholarly contributions of Acharya Parshuram Thakur Brahmvadi are encapsulated in an impressive body of work that includes twenty published volumes. These texts have earned national acclaim for their thorough analysis and historical significance, solidifying his status as a leading authority in the study of Indian history. His findings not only enrich academic discussions but also provide invaluable resources for future generations of researchers and scholars. As a result, the legacy of his work is poised to endure, ensuring that his insights will continue to influence the field of Indian historiography. Acharya Parashuram Thakur Brahmavadi dedicated over fifty years to groundbreaking research that reshaped our understanding of ancient history. His extensive studies led him to the conclusion that the Aryans' original homeland was Anga Desh, a historical region that encompasses parts of what we now recognize as Bihar and Jharkhand. This revelation not only challenges long-held beliefs about the origins of the Aryans but also highlights the significance of Anga Desh in the broader narrative of Indian history. In addition to identifying the geographical roots of the Aryans, Acharya Thakur asserted that Angika was their original language. This assertion adds a linguistic dimension to his research, suggesting that the cultural and historical identity of the Aryans is deeply intertwined with the language spoken in this region. His findings have sparked renewed interest in the study of ancient languages and their evolution, prompting scholars to explore the connections between language, culture, and identity in the context of Indian history. The impact of Acharya Thakur's work is evident in the twenty published volumes that comprise his research, which have garnered national recognition for their scholarly rigor and historical importance. His contributions have not only enriched academic discourse but have also been celebrated for their ability to illuminate the complexities of India's past. Through his meticulous research, Acharya Parashuram Thakur Brahmavadi has left an indelible mark on the field of history, encouraging future generations to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of India's ancient civilizations.

Dr. Suman Ghosh, a distinguished scientist and technologist from Kolkata, West Bengal, has been conferred with the prestigious Rashtra Seva Puraskar 2025 , a national-level honor awarded by the Bharat Seva Society. This accolade recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the fields of Science and Technology, and Dr. Suman Ghosh's remarkable work places him among the most respected innovators in the country. The award ceremony, held in New Delhi, celebrated Dr. Suman Ghosh's pioneering efforts in advancing scientific understanding and driving technological innovation that has had a meaningful impact across multiple sectors. Over the course of his illustrious career, Dr. Suman Ghosh has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in research and development, particularly in areas like environmental sustainability and information technology. Dr. Suman Ghosh's research has addressed some of the most urgent challenges facing contemporary society. His projects have not only led to groundbreaking scientific discoveries but have also resulted in practical solutions that contribute to sustainable development and improved technological infrastructure. His work is widely recognized for bridging the gap between theoretical science and real-world applications, bringing innovation out of laboratories and into communities. One of the key reasons behind his recognition was his ability to integrate cross-disciplinary knowledge to generate solutions for complex problems. From developing eco-friendly technological models to contributing to national digital transformation initiatives, Dr. Suman Ghosh's work has had far-reaching implications. Colleagues and peers in the scientific community have long acknowledged his unique vision and dedication to societal progress through science. In presenting the award, the Bharat Seva Society praised Dr. Suman Ghosh's lifelong commitment to research and service. “Dr. Suman Ghosh embodies the spirit of innovation and national service that the Rashtra Seva Puraskar  aims to honor,” said a representative from the society. “His contributions are a testament to the transformative power of science when driven by passion and purpose.” The recognition is not only a personal milestone for Dr. Suman Ghosh but also a moment of pride for the scientific community in India. It highlights the critical role that scientists and technologists play in nation-building and underscores the importance of investing in research that benefits both current and future generations. Dr. Suman Ghosh expressed his gratitude for the honor, dedicating the award to his mentors, team members, and the institutions that supported his journey. “This recognition reaffirms my belief in the power of collaborative research and innovation. I hope it encourages more young minds to pursue science as a tool for societal transformation,” he said. As India continues to position itself as a global leader in technology and research, the acknowledgment of individuals like Dr. Suman Ghosh through the Rashtra Seva Puraskar serves as an inspiration for emerging scientists. His journey stands as a shining example of how dedication, innovation, and a deep sense of service can contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future.

In Ukraine, five people have died and tens of thousands have been left without power after intense Russian missile and drone attacks overnight. Russia’s defence ministry said it had successfully carried out a massive strike on Ukrainian military and infrastructure targets. The Russian assaults came days after a US official said the US would support Ukraine launching deep strikes inside Russian territory. In Russia, air defence units destroyed 32 Ukrainian drones overnight, the state-owned RIA news agency reported today, citing data from Russia’s defence ministry. Ukraine has also been stepping up strikes on Russian oil refineries, leading to petrol shortages in parts of the country.

In West Bengal’s Darjeeling District, more than 20 people lost their due to Incessant rainfall and landslides since yesterday evening in Gorkhaland Territorial Administration in North Bengal. Constant heavy rain struck Mirik, Kurseong, Rangbhang, Pul Bazaar. Heavy rainfall and landslides reported in Kalimpong Hill District and other parts of the hills, leaving behind a trail of devastation, grief, and losses. Teesta River is flowing above the National Highway at several places and disrupted the vehicles movement.   NH 10 connecting Siliguri Sikkim has been closed at several places. 13 people have tragically lost their lives in Mirik Subdivision, with four others critically injured and referred to North Bengal Medical College & Hospital (NBCH). In Sukhia Pokhri of Darjeeling Subdivision, six people have died, with one person still missing, and in Bijanbari has confirmed one fatality. The Dudhia Bridge connecting Siliguri Mirik has collapsed, cutting off a vital lifeline from Mirik to Siliguri while critical road connections across Darjeeling, Kurseong, Mirik, Kalimpong, and Sikkim remain disrupted.   The impact goes beyond infrastructure – homes, farmlands, and entire livelihoods at many places have been swept away. District Administration and local bodies are carrying out rescue and relief works. Lok Sabha MP Raju Bist, Rajya Sabha MP Harsha Vardhan Sringla are also trying their best to help the grieved people. Reports from many places are yet to come. The damages and losses may increase.

Due to heavy rainfall in North Bihar and neighbouring Nepal, the water levels of major rivers such as the Gandak, Kosi, Mahananda, Ganga, and others are rising rapidly. During the past 24 hours, several places in Supaul, Sitamarhi, and West Champaran districts have recorded over 300 millimetres of rainfall. The highest rainfall of 385 millimetres was recorded at Saraigarh Bhaptiyahi in Supaul district.  Meanwhile, in Kishanganj, Purnia, Madhepura, Saharsa, and East Champaran, most areas have received between 110 and 200 millimetres of rainfall. Due to the heavy downpour, normal life has been severely disrupted in several districts of North Bihar. The heavy rainfall in Nepal has increased the pressure on the Kosi Barrage at Birpur in Supaul district. Considering the rising water pressure, all 56 gates of the Kosi Barrage have been opened, releasing around five lakh cusecs of water this morning. The district administration has been placed on alert mode in view of the flood situation.