In Bangladesh, train communications have resumed today in parts of the country after the Railways’ running staff called off their strike.   The decision to withdraw the strike that halted trains across the nation for 26 hours came after a meeting between Railways Adviser Fouzul Kabir, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, and the leaders of running staff yesterday.   General Secretary of Bangladesh Railway Running Staff and Sramik Karmachari Union, Mojibur Rahman made the announcement this morning after a meeting at the residence of the railway adviser in Dhaka. United News of Bangladesh says the announcement came after assurance by Mr Kabir to meet their demands.   Railway services were suspended nationwide since yesterday morning after running staff launched an indefinite strike demanding pension and gratuity with their mileage allowance.   The strike caused immense suffering for train passengers. The situation further worsened as bus and other road transportation service providers hiked fares to exorbitant rates amid increased demand.

Election Commission has issued notice to AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the complaints filed by BJP and Congress over his allegations of poisoning the Yamuna River during an interview. The Commission has asked Mr Kejriwal to furnish his response to the complaints with evidentiary support by  8 PM today. The Commission also said that it perused the report of the Delhi Jal Board which does not mention any poisoning in Yamuna. The Poll Panel said that as regards the allegations of poisoning, it is expected that there must be a factual foundation. The Commission noted that such allegations have serious ramifications of creating enmity between the regional groups, and residents of the neighbouring States, and threat of a law-and-order situation due to actual or perceived shortage or non-availability of water during this time of the year.

Maharashtra government has signed 54 MoUs worth 15.70 lakh crore rupees during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said that these agreements are expected to generate approximately 16 lakh jobs across various sectors. One of the key agreements involves MSN Holdings Ltd, which plans to establish an advanced lithium battery and cell manufacturing project under the state’s ‘Ultra Mega Project’ initiative. The project, requiring an investment of 14,652 crore rupees, aims to create 8,760 direct and indirect jobs, with a focus on development in the Vidarbha region. The largest MoU signed is with Reliance Group, which has committed 3.05 lakh crore rupees for investments across petrochemicals, polyester, renewable energy, bioenergy, green hydrogen, retail, telecommunications, data centres, hospitality, and real estate. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emphasized the state’s goal of achieving a 1 trillion dollar economy. These investments are part of efforts to attract global capital and expand Maharashtra’s industrial base.   The WEF Annual Meeting 2025, being held from January 20-24 in Davos, Switzerland, is themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.” India has a strong presence at this year’s forum, with eight states—Kerala, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and West Bengal—seeking investment opportunities. India’s delegation includes five union ministers, three state chief ministers, and nearly 100 CEOs alongside leaders from government, civil society, and the arts.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will be on a visit to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh tomorrow. The Vice President will preside over the function to be held at Samastipur, Bihar on the occasion of the 101st birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Shri Karpuri Thakur. During the visit, he will also attend the Uttar Pradesh Day celebrations in Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

In a landscape teeming with educational institutions, Gneact Toddlers Pathshala has emerged as a shining beacon of excellence, earning the prestigious title of the Best Preschool in Karnataka. This accolade is not simply a badge of honor; it embodies the unwavering dedication of the school’s staff and management to cultivate a nurturing and enriching environment where young minds can flourish. At Gneact Toddlers Pathshala, the focus is not solely on academic achievement; rather, the preschool adopts a holistic approach to early childhood education. Recognizing that each child is unique, the curriculum is designed to cater to the diverse developmental needs of toddlers. This individualized attention enables children to explore, play, and learn at their own pace, fostering a love for learning that sets a strong foundation for their future education. One of the hallmarks of Gneact Toddlers Pathshala is its innovative methodologies. Emphasizing experiential learning, the preschool engages children through hands-on activities that stimulate their curiosity and creativity. From art projects to interactive storytelling, the learning environment is dynamic and evolving, ensuring that toddlers are not mere passive learners but active participants in their educational journey. Such an environment allows teachers to guide children in discovering their interests and strengths while also addressing various developmental milestones. The recognition conferred by the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 reinforces Gneact Toddlers Pathshala’s position as a leader in preschool education. This prestigious award serves as a significant milestone, acknowledging the hard work, passion, and dedication of the educators who strive daily to shape the future of young learners. This recognition is not just for the institution; it is a tribute to the teaching methodologies that promote critical thinking, social skills, and emotional intelligence. As other educational establishments observe this exemplary model, it inspires them to aim higher and adopt similar best practices. Moreover, this accolade is a testament to the institution’s commitment to community involvement and parental engagement. Understanding that education is a collaborative effort, Gneact Toddlers Pathshala actively involves parents in the learning process. Workshops, seminars, and regular communication ensure that both educators and parents are aligned in their efforts to provide the best for the children. Such partnerships create a supportive network that extends beyond the walls of the preschool, ultimately benefiting the entire community. As Gneact Toddlers Pathshala continues to grow and evolve, the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar will undoubtedly serve as a motivating factor for the team to uphold their high standards. The staff is committed to further enhancing the educational experiences they deliver, constantly seeking innovative ways to engage their students and take advantage of the latest research in early childhood education. In conclusion, Gneact Toddlers Pathshala stands as a model of quality early learning in Karnataka. Through its dedication to holistic development, innovative educational methodologies, and strong community ties, it sets a benchmark that many aspire to reach. With the recognition of the Best Preschool award, the institution not only celebrates its achievements but also inspires a new generation of educators to strive for excellence in early childhood education. As the future unfolds, Gneact Toddlers Pathshala will continue to illuminate the path of young learners, ensuring they are well-prepared for the adventures ahead.

The Centre has approved the creation of two new Reserve Battalions of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) taking the total number of battalions from 13 to 15. In a statement, the Home Ministry said that each new battalion will comprise around one thousand twenty-five personnel of various ranks and will be led by a Senior Commandant level Officer. These new battalions will be vital in catering to the increasing demands on the CISF by creating a pool of trained personnel to fulfil immediate induction requirements relating to internal security. The Ministry added that the reserve battalions consist of personnel specifically trained and equipped who are experienced in handling the security of high-security Jails and other undertakings.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation 2 Naval Ships and one submarine in Mumbai today. For the first time, three vessels of the Indian Navy are scheduled to be commissioned simultaneously. The commissioning of the three naval combatants marks a significant leap forward in realizing India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan today said that the youth of the country will be the largest contributor to making India a developed nation by 2047. Addressing the young NCC cadets at the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day 2025 camp in New Delhi today, General Chauhan praised the young cadets for planting more than one lakh trees under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign throughout the year. He added that under the Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, nearly 327 tonnes of garbage was also removed by the Cadets. The Chief of the Defence Staff asserted that more than ten lakh NCC cadets participated in International Yoga Day this year. He advised the young cadets to never give up and contribute to nation-building activities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and dedicated the prestigious Sonamarg Tunnel to the nation, in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.   Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari, Dr Jitendra Singh, J&K Lt Gov Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Senior UT Ministers, Parliament Members, Legislators and senior Tunnel Project Officials were present on the occasion.   Prime Minister also inspected the tunnel by moving inside the tunnel. He was briefed about the tunnel project.The Sonamarg Tunnel will significantly reduce the travel time to just 20-25 minutes between Gagangeer and Sonamarg in Ganderbal district.   The Tunnel is a game-changer for the region, offering more than just a connection between Gagangeer and Sonamarg.The tunnel is equipped with cutting-edge technologies that provide real-time updates and seamless connectivity for users. This futuristic infrastructure will enhance the travel experience and also set a new standard for road connectivity in the region.   The work on the Tunnel project began in May 2015 and was completed last year.   The opening of the tunnel is a major step towards making the Ladakh region accessible by road throughout the year. This engineering marvel is poised to unlock the full potential of the region’s trade and tourism sectors. The tunnel will boost domestic and international tourism in Sonamarg while providing all-weather connectivity between Sonamarg and Gagangeer that leads to the approach road towards under construction Zojila tunnel. This will increase socio-economic development throughout the region including Kargil and Leh districts.

Saibal Karmakar, a renowned visual artist from West Bengal, stands as a testament to the vibrant artistic heritage of India. With a remarkable educational background that includes a Bachelor of Visual Arts from the Government College of Arts & Craft, along with a Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts from Rabindra Bharati University, Karmakar has set a high standard for artistic excellence and innovation. Karmakar’s artistic journey reflects a multifaceted approach to creativity. He is not limited to a single medium; instead, he explores a wide array of art forms that include painting, printmaking, sculpture, fashion illustrations, and architectural models. This eclecticism allows him to express his thoughts and experiences in varied dimensions, appealing to diverse audiences. Each piece created by Karmakar reveals his deep understanding of visual language, making his work both compelling and thought-provoking. One of the defining characteristics of Karmakar’s paintings is the way they combine stunning visuals with profound conceptual exploration. The aesthetic beauty of his art often serves as a window into complex themes such as identity, culture, and the human experience. Karmakar’s innovative techniques not only enhance the visual appeal of his artworks but also invite viewers to engage in a deeper dialogue. This intricate interplay between form and content is what sets his work apart and prompts discussions within the art community and beyond. Beyond his personal artistic endeavors, Saibal Karmakar plays a pivotal role as an educator at ESEDS School of Design College. Through his teaching, he nurtures the burgeoning talent of the next generation of artists, sharing his knowledge and insights with those eager to make their mark in the world of visual arts. His commitment to education reflects a belief in the importance of mentorship and the transmission of skills and values essential to artistic development. Karmakar's contributions to the art community have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored with numerous accolades from prestigious organizations, recognizing his influence and dedication to contemporary art. His artwork has been showcased in international exhibitions, further solidifying his reputation and allowing his vision to reach a global audience. Each exhibition not only serves as a platform for Karmakar's artistic expression but also represents a cultural exchange that enriches the artistic discourse. As a significant figure in contemporary art, Saibal Karmakar’s influence stretches far beyond his immediate artistic output. He embodies the spirit of innovation, pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms while remaining rooted in the rich cultural context of West Bengal. His journey is one of both personal exploration and communal engagement, illustrating how art can serve as a bridge across different worlds. Through his work and his role as an educator, Karmakar inspires aspiring artists to find their voice and cultivate their unique perspectives. In a rapidly changing global landscape, his contributions remind us of the power of art to reflect, challenge, and connect. As he continues to create, teach, and inspire, Saibal Karmakar stands as a beacon of creativity, enriching the tapestry of contemporary visual arts.q

In Bangladesh, the declaration of the July Revolution may not be made on January 15 as was planned since additional time is needed to reach a broader consensus, said Mahfuj Alam, adviser of the interim government at a media briefing on Thursday. He also said the interim government will not declare the July proclamation, while it is only facilitating the formation of the proclamation. He said the proclamation of the July Revolution would be made after reaching a “broader consensus” in consultations with all stakeholders. The press briefing was held after a meeting of the Council of Advisers at the Chief Adviser’s Office with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in the chair.   Earlier, the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing said the declaration will be adopted to consolidate the unity of people formed through the July mass uprising, the anti-fascist spirit, and the desire to reform the state. The Adviser said the government thinks if the declaration is made on the part of the students without reaching a wider consensus, the current unity and stability of the country may be hampered. He said the government will take a decision within the next week on how the July percolation will be prepared and when it will be made public. He said the government has taken the responsibility of formulating a document in consultation with all stakeholders of the July uprising – not only political parties but also other stakeholders.

Director General of National Cadet Corps-NCC Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh today inaugurated the Idea and Innovation competition in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering, he noted that the platform will help young cadets to present their ideas and innovations. Mr Singh added that in various camps the subject matter experts have briefed the cadets and it has also been included in the NCC syllabus.   Speaking Exclusively to Akashvani News he said 50 cadets’ innovation and ideas have been showcased in the competition.