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The government has said that due to the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, the sex ratio at birth has increased from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24 at the national level. In a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, Women and Child Development Minister Annpurna Devi said the scheme was launched in 2015 to address the declining Child Sex Ratio and related issues of the empowerment of girls and women. She said the scheme focuses on creating mindset and behavioural changes towards the girls by informing, influencing, motivating, engaging, and empowering all stakeholders. The Minister said the gross enrollment ratio of girls in the schools at the secondary level has increased from around 75 per cent in 2014-15 to 78 per cent in 2023-24.

The Supreme Court has ruled that the President must decide on State Bills, reserved by Governors for Presidential assent, within three months. The Apex Court set aside Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi’s decision to withhold assent to 10 pending Bills and, in the process, ruled that the President should also not take more than three months in arriving at a decision on Bills referred by Governors.   The Supreme Court has said it is not undermining the office of the Governor in fixing a timeline for their actions under Article 200, but they must act with due deference to the settled conventions of parliamentary democracy. Article 200 empowers the Governor to give assent to the Bills presented to him, withhold the assent, or reserve it for the consideration of the President.

The Central Government notified the appointment of Justice Arun Palli as Chief Justice of High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that the Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal took to ‘X’ regarding the appointment Justice Arun Palli. In exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India, the Hon’ble President of India, after consultation with Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, appointed Justice Arun Palli, Judge, High Court of Punjab and Haryana as Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office. Last week the Supreme Court Collegium had recommended appointment of Justice Palli, a judge of High Court of Punjab & Haryana, as Chief Justice of High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Justice Palli was designated as a Senior Advocate on April 26, 2007. He served as Amicus Curiae in various contentious matters before the High Court, addressing diverse subjects and legal propositions before both Division and Full Benches. Justice Palli was elevated to the Bench of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on December 28, 2013. Additionally, he has been serving as the Executive Chairman of the Haryana State Legal Services Authority since May 31, 2023, and was nominated as a Member of the Governing Body of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) on October 31, 2023, for a tenure of two years.

The Veyil Foundation has announced the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025, honoring Achariya Smt Manjima Guha for her remarkable contributions to Indian classical dance and culture. As the director of the Indian Forum for Classical Dance & Arts (IFFCD), she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the arts, reflecting her passion and dedication. Under her visionary leadership, the IFFCD has emerged as a leading institution dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, ensuring that this rich cultural heritage is passed down to future generations. Over the past eleven years, the IFFCD has made significant strides in educating over 150 students in Bharatanatyam, instilling in them a profound appreciation for this traditional art form. Achariya Smt Manjima Guha's mission extends beyond mere instruction; she aspires to inspire young minds to connect with the deep-rooted traditions of Indian classical dance and culture. Her efforts not only safeguard these artistic practices but also foster a vibrant cultural exchange that highlights the beauty and complexity of India's artistic legacy. Currently, the IFFCD offers Bharatanatyam training under the expert guidance of Smt. Manjima Guha and her daughter, Ms. Anahita Guha. Their mentorship has propelled the institution into numerous National Dance Competitions and Nritya Fests, where students have showcased their exceptional talents. The dedication and hard work of these young dancers have garnered them several prestigious awards, including the Nritya Yuva Kalasreshtha Award, the Nritya Bhaskar Award, the Kalashree Radharani Samman, and the Kala Gourav Samman, further solidifying the IFFCD's reputation as a beacon of excellence in the realm of classical dance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met the Senior General of Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand’s Bangkok. In a social media post, Mr. Modi said that he once again expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake in Myanmar. He added that India is doing whatever is possible to assist the sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time. The Prime Minister shared that during the meeting, they also discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development, and more.

Home Minister Amit Shah termed the Parliament approving the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025. In a social media post, Mr Shah said this has put an end to the era of years of injustice and corruption and ushered in an era of justice and equality. He said that through this Bill, the Waqf Board and Waqf properties are going to be more accountable, transparent and equitable. He added that this will benefit the poor, women and children of the Muslim community. The Home Minister congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju for this important bill. He also expressed gratitude to all the parties and MPs who supported it.

Veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away in Mumbai this morning. He was 87. The legendary Bollywood actor was well-known by his nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic films. He was a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri and Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his immense contribution to Indian cinema for decades.   Born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami, Kumar has shaped the narrative of patriotic movies in Bollywood and has delivered classics like Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981). His on-screen persona as a patriotic hero earned him the moniker ‘Bharat Kumar.’ His unforgettable performances and charismatic on-screen presence left an indelible mark. Some of his other popular films are Patthar Ke Sanam, Shor, Sanyasi, and Roti Kapda Aur Makan.   President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the demise of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar. In a social media post, President Murmu said that Manoj Kumar has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. She added that during his long and distinguished career, he came to be known for his patriotic films, which promoted a sense of pride in India’s contribution and values. The President said that his cinema would instil national pride and inspire generations to come. President Murmu shared her condolences with his families and admirers.   Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has expressed sadness at the demise of Dadasaheb Phalke awardee and legendary actor Manoj Kumar. In his message, Mr Dhankhar said Manoj Kumar was renowned for his patriotic films, and he has left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of Bharat. He said the actor’s legacy will continue to inspire generations.   Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condoled the death of actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar. In a social media post, the Minister said that the cinematic legacy of Mr. Kumar will live on through his works. He said that the versatile actor will always be remembered for making films full of patriotism. Mr Singh said that the unforgettable performances of the actor in films like ‘Upkaar’ and ‘Purab and Paschim’ have enriched Indian culture and have endeared him to people across generations.

Ganta Vijayalakshmi, the distinguished Principal of Brigade Public School in Telangana, has recently been awarded the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 by the Veyil Foundation. Her academic credentials are remarkable, featuring master's degrees in Public Administration, Business Administration, and Psychology. This diverse educational background equips her with a unique ability to connect effective governance with the psychological needs of both students and faculty, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth. With a wealth of experience in Higher Education Management, Vijayalakshmi skillfully combines her expertise in psychology to craft and execute educational strategies that meet the evolving demands of contemporary learners. Her proactive involvement in the Vision to Give Free Career Guidance initiative further underscores her dedication to education. This ambitious program aims to extend career guidance to over 315 million students across India, empowering them to navigate global challenges and positioning the nation as a frontrunner in educational excellence. Vijayalakshmi's unwavering commitment to holistic development ensures that both students and faculty are well-prepared with the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world. Her innovative approach and dedication to transforming educational landscapes have made her a key figure in inspiring countless individuals to make meaningful contributions to society. Through her leadership, she continues to pave the way for a brighter future in education, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

Dr. Rinki Mishra, originally from West Bengal, has recently been awarded the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 by the Veyil Foundation, a recognition that celebrates her remarkable contributions to Management Education. This esteemed accolade highlights her unwavering commitment and the significant impact she has made in her field, showcasing her as a leader in educational innovation. Dr. Rinki Mishra is an exceptionally skilled individual in the field of management education. Her expertise and dedication to the discipline set her apart as a prominent figure in this area. With a strong background as an academic and researcher, Dr. Rinki Mishra brings a rich tapestry of expertise in Human Resource Development and Organizational Behavior. Her career is marked by a diverse range of experiences, including extensive research, teaching roles, and a plethora of publications that collectively emphasize her influential role in shaping educational practices. Her work is characterized by a genuine dedication to improving educational methodologies and fostering professional growth among educators and students. Beyond just theoretical insights, Dr. Rinki Mishra's initiatives have practical implications that resonate with both learners and professionals. Her scholarly work is driven by a profound enthusiasm for education, positioning her as a key player in the ongoing conversations about effective management strategies within educational institutions. Through her efforts, she not only enriches academic discourse but also actively contributes to the betterment of educational environments.

Samipeshu Das, hailing from West Bengal, has been awarded the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 by the Veyil Foundation. This distinguished accolade celebrates his exceptional academic contributions, particularly his work titled "A Comparative Study of Ancient Indian Uparupak and Rabindranatya." Beyond his impressive research accomplishments, Samipeshu holds the position of Assistant Professor at Bangabasi Evening College, where he plays a pivotal role in educating and motivating students within the academic sphere. His commitment to delving into the complexities of Indian performing arts has not only garnered him recognition but has also made a significant impact on the appreciation of cultural heritage. The honor bestowed by the Veyil Foundation highlights the critical role that scholarly endeavors play in the preservation and examination of traditional art forms. Samipeshu's research serves as a vital link, illuminating the rich history of ancient Indian performance while simultaneously fostering a deeper understanding among contemporary audiences. His work is instrumental in bridging the divide between historical significance and modern appreciation, ensuring that the legacy of these art forms continues to resonate. Through his dedication and scholarly pursuits, Samipeshu Das has established himself as a key figure in the academic community, inspiring both students and fellow researchers. His contributions not only enrich the field of Indian performing arts but also emphasize the importance of maintaining a dialogue between the past and present. As he continues to explore and share his insights, his influence will undoubtedly extend beyond the classroom, shaping the future of cultural studies and the appreciation of India's artistic heritage.

Jaishanker Rai, hailing from Rajasthan, has been awarded the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 by the Veyil Foundation. This accolade is a testament to his remarkable contributions as a devoted social worker, underscoring his steadfast dedication to community service and development. Among his notable achievements are the establishment of two Hanuman temples and a Durga Mandir, which have become vital spiritual and cultural centers for the local populace. These structures not only enhance the community's religious landscape but also foster a sense of unity and belonging among residents. In addition to his architectural endeavors, Rai has made significant strides in environmental conservation by planting 2,000 trees, thereby championing sustainability and raising ecological awareness within his community. His commitment to social welfare is further exemplified by his generous donation of 1,500 blankets, which provide essential warmth and comfort to those facing hardship. These initiatives reflect his deep-rooted belief in uplifting the less fortunate and promoting a healthier environment for future generations. Beyond his charitable activities, Jaishanker Rai holds influential leadership roles as the state President of the Vishva Hindu Raksha Parishad and the state President of the Crime Free Bharat Mission. In these capacities, he actively advocates for the preservation of cultural values and the enhancement of safety within society. His multifaceted approach to leadership and social reform not only reinforces his standing as a dedicated leader but also highlights his unwavering commitment to fostering positive change in his community.

Vandana Tankha, a respected educator from Uttar Pradesh, has received the esteemed Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 from the Veyil Foundation. This honor highlights her remarkable contributions to education, especially in early childhood development. Her dedication to nurturing young learners reflects her commitment to creating a supportive and engaging educational atmosphere. With nearly eight years of experience in early education, Vandana has gained valuable insights into the developmental needs of children. Her skills have played a crucial role in designing effective learning strategies tailored to her students' diverse requirements. For the past four years, she has successfully run her own preschool in Noida, where she has introduced innovative teaching methods that encourage comprehensive growth and learning. Vandana's enthusiasm for education and her steadfast dedication to her students have not only brought her recognition but have also left a significant mark on her community. The Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2025 is a reflection of her hard work and the positive impact she has made on many young lives. As she continues her educational journey, her commitment to excellence will guide her efforts to inspire and empower future generations.