Arindam Deb, a talented poet from West Bengal, has been awarded the esteemed National Literature Award for 2024 by the Indian Literature & Arts Society. This honor is a testament to his significant impact on the literary scene, particularly in the fields of English and Bengali poetry. His works are celebrated not just for their artistic flair but also for their profound engagement with current social issues, establishing him as a vital voice in today’s literary landscape.   The Indian Literature & Arts Society has recognized Arindam Deb with the National Literature Award 2024, highlighting his exceptional contributions to poetry in both English and Bengali. This accolade reflects his remarkable skill and versatility as a writer, showcasing his ability to craft verses that are both beautiful and thought-provoking. Deb's poetry captivates readers with its rich imagery and emotional depth, while also tackling important themes that resonate with the complexities of modern society.   In a noteworthy acknowledgment of his literary talent, Arindam Deb from West Bengal has been honored with the National Literature Award 2024, presented by the Indian Literature & Arts Society. His poetry is distinguished by its artistic quality and its thoughtful exploration of social issues, making it relevant and engaging for contemporary audiences. This award not only celebrates Deb's commitment to his craft but also underscores his unique ability to blend aesthetic beauty with meaningful commentary in his work.   Arindam Deb has a knack for crafting poems that truly stand out. His work is not just good; it’s filled with promise and showcases a level of greatness that resonates with readers. Whether he’s writing in Bengali or English, his talent shines through, making his poetry accessible and enjoyable for a diverse audience.   What’s impressive about Arindam Deb is his ability to weave words together in both Bengali and English, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and ideas. His poems have a unique flair that captivates the reader, drawing them into his world. Each piece feels like a journey, filled with depth and insight that leaves a lasting impression.    It’s clear that Arindam Deb is a gifted poet, and his bilingual prowess only enhances his work. The way he navigates between languages allows him to express complex thoughts and feelings in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. His poetry not only showcases his skills but also invites readers to explore the beauty of language in all its forms.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has greeted people on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. In a social media post, Mr. Dhankhar said that this festival, a celebration of the sacred bond between brothers and sisters, signifies the commitment to support and cherish one another. On this auspicious occasion, the Vice President urged everyone to commit to upholding the dignity and respect of women, fostering an environment where they can thrive and fully realise their potential.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is chairing the meeting to review the performance of public sector banks on various parameters in New Delhi. Secretary, Department of Financial Services Dr. Vivek Joshi, Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Public Sector Banks, and other senior officials are attending the meeting.   During the meeting, Ms. Sitharaman, along with other participants, will review deposit growth, the credit-to-deposit ratio, and asset quality, which are vital indicators of the banks’ health.   The Finance Minister will also evaluate the performance of public sector banks under government initiatives such as PM Awas Yojana, PM Surya Ghar, and PM Vishwakarma schemes. This is Ms. Sitharaman’s first review meeting of such banks after assuming charge as Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister in the Modi 3.0 government. In the evening, Finance Minister Sitharaman will also review the performance of regional rural banks.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is currently holding talks with his Nepalese counterpart Arzu Rana Deuba in New Delhi. Dr. Deuba arrived in New Delhi yesterday on a five-day visit to India.   In a statement, the External Affairs Ministry said this visit aligns with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal.   The Ministry said that Nepal is a priority partner of India in its Neighbourhood First policy. It said this visit will provide both sides an opportunity to discuss and review the progress in bilateral cooperation and help in advancing ties further.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has today granted sanction for the prosecution of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment ‘scam’. The sanction is based on three petitions filed by T J Abraham, Pradeep and Snehamayi Krishna.  Earlier, on July 26, Governor Gehlot had issued a “show-cause notice” to CM Siddaramaiah, asking him to respond within seven days why he should not face prosecution. In response, the Karnataka cabinet had “strongly recommended” that the governor retract the notice issued to the chief minister, accusing him of misusing his constitutional role. In his petition seeking sanction from the Governor, Abhraham has accused Siddaramaiah of manipulation to get MUDA alternative sites for his family, illegally gaining land worth 55.8 crore rupees.   He had also complained to the Election Commission that in the 2013 election affidavit Siddaramaiah had not declared this land gifted to his wife by her brother through a gift deed. Siddaramaiah’s wife had received 14 sites in Mysuru in lieu of land in Kesare village that was acquired by MUDA. Meanwhile, BJP today hit out at Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over alleged irregularities in allotment of sites by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Talking to media in New Delhi, party Spokesperson Sambit Patra alleged that the Chief Minister and his family are involved in this scam. He said it is of around four thousand crore rupees scam. The BJP leader lauded Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot for granting sanction for prosecution of the Chief Minister in this case. Meanwhile, Congress Spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged that the politicisation of constitutional posts has been going on ever since the BJP came to power. He said there is nothing in this case.

The largest-ever contingent of 84 players will take part in the upcoming Paris Paralympic Games this year. The Paralympic Games will take place from the 28th of this month to the 8th of September 2024. Forty-seven athletes are taking part in the games for the first time. Addressing the send-off ceremony of the Indian contingent participating in the Paris Paralympic Games, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said that there are 50 players in this team who benefited from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).   He said the government has provided every facility, such as training and coaching, to the players under this scheme. Mr. Mandaviya said that many of the players have emerged from the Khelo India games. Akashvani correspondent reports, some of the players who are taking part in Paris Paralympic Games expressed confidence that they will perform well and win a medal for the country. In the last Paralympic Games held in Tokyo, Indian players performed well, winning 19 medals. In those games, 54 players participated from the Indian side.

At least 20 coaches of Sabarmati Express passenger train derailed in Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh today. The incident occurred during wee hours near Kanpur railway station which is being investigated by IB and Railway officials as the engine is said to be hit by a sharp object. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the rail route has been disrupted. Train has been arranged for the passengers for their onward journey. According to North Central Railway, Sabarmati Express 19168, which was going from Varanasi Junction to Ahmedabad, derailed after striking a boulder. Fire trucks and ambulances were dispatched to the scene, and a thorough inspection of the train confirmed that no one was hurt.   Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnav in his message on social media X said that engine of Sabarmati Express hit an object placed on the track and derailed near Kanpur at 02:35 am today. Sharp hit marks are observed. Evidence is protected. IB and UP police are also working on it. Indian Railways has arranged an alternative train service for passengers for their onward journey to Amdavad following the derailment of the Sabarmati Express near Kanpur at midnight. In a social media post, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the incident is being investigated by the Intelligence Bureau and Uttar Pradesh Police. The Minister said that the engine of the train hit an object placed on the track and derailed near Kanpur at 2:35 am today. He said that sharp hit marks are observed and the evidence is protected. Mr Vaishnaw added that no injuries to passengers or staff have been reported.

Union Cabinet has given its approval to three new metro rail projects in the country. The projects include phase three of Bangalore Metro with an estimated cost of 15 thousand 611 crore rupees, Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project with a cost of 12 thousand 200 crore rupees and Pune Metro Phase-1 project extension towards south from Swargate to Katraj with a cost of around three thousand crore rupees.   Addressing media after the Cabinet meeting in New Delhi, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that at present metro rail is operational in 21 cities whereas it was operational only five cities 10 years back.   At global level, India stands at third position in terms of network length. He said, the Phase-3 of Bangalore Metro Rail Project to be operational by 2029 will add approximately 44.65 Kilometers of new metro lines, connecting the western part of the city of Bengaluru that were previously underserved.   On operationalization of Phase-3, Bengaluru city will have over 220 Kilometer of active Metro Rail Network. Mr Vaishnaw said that Phase-3 corridors also provide connectivity to the Southern part of the city, Outer Ring Road West, Magadi road and various neighbourhoods, enhancing overall connectivity in the city.   The Minister added that Metro Rail as an efficient alternate road transport and with Phase-3 as an extension to the Metro Rail network is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the city.   Giving details about Thane Integral Ring Metro project corridor in Maharastra which will be operational by 2029, Mr Vaishnaw added that the 29-kilometer corridor will run along the periphery of west side of Thane city with 22 Stations.     The project connects prominent areas like Naupada, Wagle Estate, Dongripada, Hiranandani Estate, Kolshet and  Saket. He said that this will provide a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, facilitating the city to realize its economic potential and ease traffic congestion on the roads.   The Union Minister added that Maha Metro will execute the project, along with civil, electro­mechanical, other associated facilities, works and related assets.   Speaking about  the Pune Metro Phase-1 project extension towards south from Swargate to Katraj, Mr Vaishnaw said that the Swargate to Katraj Underground Line will significantly alleviate road traffic congestion and provide a safer and more comfortable travel experience.   The project, aimed at providing seamless connectivity in Pune, is set to be completed by February, 2029. He added that the extension will integrate with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which includes the Metro Station and MSRTC Bus Stand and will provide seamless connectivity for commuters within and outside Pune City.   Mr Vaishnaw said, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs also gave its approval to the new Civil Enclaves at Bihta in Bihar and Bagdogra in West Bengal. He said, as per the approval, new Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport will be developed with a total estimated cost of 1,549 crore rupees.   This development is poised to significantly enhance Bagdogra Airport’s operational efficiency and passenger experience, reinforcing its role as a pivotal air travel hub for the region.   At Bagdogra, the proposed Terminal Building is designed to accommodate 3000 Peak Hour Passengers with an annual capacity to handle 10 million passengers.   The Minister also informed that new Civil Enclave at Bihta will be developed at the cost of 1,413 crore rupees. This infrastructure project represents a strategic move to address the anticipated saturation of capacity at Patna Airport.   The proposed New Integrated Terminal Building at Bihta Airport is designed to handle 3000 Peak Hour Passengers and annually cater to 50 lakh passengers.   This will be further expanded by another 50 Lakh whenever it is required and ultimate capacity would be one crore passengers per annum.   The key components of the project include the construction of an Apron capable of accommodating 10 parking bays as well as two link taxiways.   Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw added that Narendra Modi government in its third term has approved infra projects worth one lakh 54 thousand crore rupees so far and with the announcement of today’s projects the total infra projects cleared by the government has gone up to around two lakh crore rupees.

The Nominations for the Padma Awards 2025 are on going till 15th of September. Interested participants can visit the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, awards.gov.in , to file their nominations. The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honour of the nation. The Awards are given in three categories. The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, while Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of higher order and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field of activity. The Awards are announced every year on the eve of the Republic Day.

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan inaugurated the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) in New Delhi on Thursday. Mr Chauhan highlighted that through NPPS, the farmers will be able to know different types of insecticides and pesticides and save their crops from their harmful effect. On the occasion, Mr Chauhan also interacted with many farmers who are the beneficiaries of the various schemes being implemented by the Central Government. Around Five Hundred farmers were present in the event.

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar will be on a two-day visit to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh beginning today. On the first day of his visit, Mr. Dhankar will visit Kanha Shanti Vanam in Hyderabad, Telangana.   During the second day of visit, the Vice President will visit Akshara Vidyalaya Campus and Skill Development Centre, the Swarna Bharat Trust and the Muppavarapu Foundation at Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. Later in the day, he will preside as the Chief Guest at the 23rd Anniversary Celebrations of Swarna Bharat Trust, Venkatachalam in Andhra Pradesh.

In Ladakh, in a display of national pride and cultural celebration, the North Zone Culture Centre, Patiala, in collaboration with Government High School Wakha, organized a Har Ghar Tiranga program. The event featured performances by artists, drawing enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and community members. The program is part of the nationwide “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign, aimed at encouraging citizens to hoist the national flag at their homes, fostering a sense of unity and patriotism across the country.