{"id":7917,"date":"2026-02-02T13:06:59","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T13:06:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=7917"},"modified":"2026-02-02T13:06:59","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T13:06:59","slug":"short-notes-on-current-affairs-26-01-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=7917","title":{"rendered":"Short notes on Current Affairs 26.01.2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Bharat Parv 2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Event Overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Bharat Parv\u20132026 is a six-day national cultural festival organised by the <strong>Ministry of Tourism, Government of India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It is being held at the historic Red Fort complex, Delhi, as part of the Republic Day celebrations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The festival runs from 26 to 31 January 2026 and is open to the public free of cost.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Inauguration &amp; Dignitaries<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The festival was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Present at the inauguration were:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secretary (Tourism) Shri Suman Billa<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Senior dignitaries, artists, and representatives from States, Union Territories, and Central Ministries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Theme &amp; Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The festival aligns with the constitutional spirit of unity in diversity and people\u2019s participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Special significance in 2026 as India commemorates 150 years of the national song \u201cVande Mataram\u201d.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The event symbolises India\u2019s freedom struggle, cultural pride, and national unity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Messages from Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Described Bharat Parv as a celebration of India\u2019s multifaceted soul.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Highlighted how the festival reflects India\u2019s historical journey through:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Republic Day tableaux<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cultural performances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exhibitions blending tradition and innovation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Paid tribute to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Folk artists preserving cultural traditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Farmers sustaining the nation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Artisans and weavers maintaining centuries-old crafts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasised that India\u2019s diversity at Bharat Parv reflects deep cultural essence, not just visual variety.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Stressed the integration of technology, art, human resources, and traditional knowledge in shaping modern India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Messages from Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Highlighted Bharat Parv as a major national platform for showcasing India\u2019s folk culture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasised that folk arts and traditions form the foundation of India\u2019s national spirit and development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Reiterated the government\u2019s commitment to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Preserving cultural heritage<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Connecting tradition with modern aspirations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Objectives of Bharat Parv\u20132026<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Showcase India\u2019s rich and diverse cultural heritage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Promote domestic tourism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Provide a platform for artisans and States\/UTs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Generate tourism awareness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthen national integration through cultural participation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Major Attractions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>41 Republic Day tableaux<\/strong> on display<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>48 cultural performances<\/strong> by:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>State\/UT troupes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>North Zonal Cultural Centre<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sangeet Natak Akademi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renowned artists<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>22 performances<\/strong> by <strong>Armed Forces and Paramilitary Bands<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A <strong>grand food court<\/strong> featuring:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>60 stalls<\/strong> with cuisines from across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live cooking demonstrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>102 handicrafts and handloom stalls<\/strong> by:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>States<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Central Ministries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>DC Handicrafts, DC Handlooms, and TRIFED<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>34 State Tourism Pavilions<\/strong> and <strong>24 Central Ministry stalls<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Interactive zones including:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Nukkad nataks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quizzes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Children\u2019s engagement areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experiential cultural spaces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Participation &amp; Scale<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Participation from all States and Union Territories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Involvement of over 25 Central Ministries and Departments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Contributions from leading national institutions and organisations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Festival Timings<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>26 January 2026:<\/strong> 5:00 PM \u2013 9:00 PM<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>27\u201331 January 2026:<\/strong> 12:00 Noon \u2013 9:00 PM<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Bharat Parv\u20132026 serves as a comprehensive cultural showcase integrating heritage, tourism, arts, cuisine, and public participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The festival reinforces the idea that India\u2019s progress is rooted in cultural continuity, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Relics dating to the Neolithic period at Lakkundi village, Gadag district of Karnataka<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overview of Excavation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Excavations began on January 16 at the <strong>Kote Veerabhadreshwar temple<\/strong> in Lakkundi village, Gadag district.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Relics dating to the Neolithic period<\/strong> have been unearthed, boosting efforts to nominate Lakkundi for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The discoveries follow a \u201ctreasure\u201d found by a local family while digging a house foundation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Historical Significance of Lakkundi<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Lakkundi, once called Lokkigundi, is historically rich, with inscriptions dating to the 11th and 12th centuries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It was known as the \u201cvillage of hundred wells and temples\u201d.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Lakkundi is linked to <strong>Queen Attimabbe<\/strong>, an 11th-century Jain philanthropist, who built temples, Jain basadis, and sank wells for public benefit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The village also supported 12th-century sharanas like Shivasharana Ajaganna and Sharane Muktayakka, followers of Basaveshwara\u2019s teachings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Architectural heritage included several wonders, but many are now lost; only 13 temples with Kalyana Chalukya style are mentioned in the Mumbai State Gazetteer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Excavation and Heritage Projects<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Excavations aim to uncover buried temples and wells, a long-pending initiative revived under H.K. Patil, Minister for Law, Parliamentary Affairs, and Tourism.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">In November 2024, the <strong>KSTDC<\/strong> and Archaeology Museums and Heritage Department collected <strong>1,050 historical relics<\/strong> from local households and identified <strong>13 inscriptions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Many relics are now displayed in an <strong>open museum at Lakkundi<\/strong>, with villagers contributing land for heritage development.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site Proposal<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The State is actively pushing for inclusion of Lakkundi monuments in UNESCO\u2019s tentative list.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Collaboration with <strong>INTACH<\/strong> is ongoing to fine-tune the proposal; two meetings have been held so far.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">This aligns with the Budget announcement about securing UNESCO recognition.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Protected Monuments<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Seven ASI-protected monuments<\/strong> exist in Lakkundi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The State has declared 16 temple structures as protected, with plans to add eight more by the end of the month.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A comprehensive study is being conducted to potentially include 20 more temples and structures, likely by February.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Future Plans and Challenges<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">There is a proposal to relocate parts of the village to facilitate monument restoration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Final decisions on relocation will depend on excavation results and surveys of ancient structures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla gets Ashok Chakra<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">On the <strong>eve of Republic Day<\/strong>, <strong>President Droupadi Murmu<\/strong> approved Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards for personnel of the <strong>Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Awards recognize exceptional courage in operations and sustained distinguished service across key operational and command roles.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gallantry Awards<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Ashok Chakra (highest peacetime gallantry award):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Awarded to <strong>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (IAF)<\/strong> for his <strong>ground-breaking mission to the International Space Station in June 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Other Gallantry Awards:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kirti Chakra:<\/strong> 3<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shaurya Chakra:<\/strong> 12 (including 1 posthumous)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry):<\/strong> 1<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sena Medals (Gallantry):<\/strong> 44 (5 posthumous)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry):<\/strong> 6 (Navy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry):<\/strong> 2 (Air Force)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Distinguished Service Awards<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total of <strong>301 military decorations<\/strong> approved, including:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Param Vishisht Seva Medals: 30<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uttam Yudh Seva Medals: 4<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ati Vishisht Seva Medals: 56<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yudh Seva Medals: 9<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bars to Sena Medals (Distinguished): 2<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sena Medals (Distinguished): 43<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nao Sena Medals (Distinguished): 8<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vayu Sena Medals (Distinguished): 14<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Additional awards:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vishisht Seva Medals: 135<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mention-in-Despatches: 98 (5 posthumous)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Operations Recognized<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Awards cover personnel involved in key operations such as:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Operation Rakshak<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operation Snow Leopard<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operation Hifazat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operation Orchid<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operation Meghdoot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rescue and casualty evacuation missions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Army personnel<\/strong> received the <strong>majority<\/strong> of awards (81 Mention-in-Despatches).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Highlights<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Air Force officer to receive Ashok Chakra for a space mission, highlighting the evolving nature of modern military operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A mix of peacetime gallantry, combat operations, and distinguished service awards underscores recognition of both bravery in action and sustained leadership\/service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Several awards were posthumous, honoring ultimate sacrifice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\"><strong>Mark Tully<\/strong>, a veteran journalist, Passed Away<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Career Overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mark Tully, veteran journalist and acclaimed author, passed away at age 90 in <strong>Delhi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">He served as Chief of Bureau, India, for the BBC for 22 years, becoming one of the most recognisable foreign journalists in South Asia.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">After radio journalism, he moved into documentary filmmaking and authored several influential books on India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Journalistic Philosophy<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Tully believed that the story mattered more than the medium.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">His long BBC radio career shaped his concise writing style, where exceeding 300 words was discouraged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Despite this constraint, his lifelong fascination remained modern, independent India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Early Life and Identity<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Born in 1935 in Calcutta (Kolkata) to William Scarth Carlisle Tully and <strong>Patience Trebi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">His childhood coincided with Quit India Movement, communal violence, and World War II.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Educated in the United Kingdom, he often described himself as a <strong>\u201crelic of the Raj\u201d<\/strong>, reflecting his dual identity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>BBC Career in India<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Returned to India in the <strong>early 1960s<\/strong> as an assistant at the BBC\u2019s New Delhi bureau.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">At a time when Akashvani dominated Indian radio, the BBC faced government pressure and operational challenges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Under Tully\u2019s leadership, the BBC earned credibility by covering major events:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>1965 India\u2013Pakistan War<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>1971 Bangladesh Liberation War<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emergency (1975)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Punjab insurgency (early 1980s)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Reporting Ingenuity and Afghanistan Story<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">During the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, when foreign agencies left Kabul:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tully and colleague Satish Jacob gathered news by interviewing passengers arriving on Kabul\u2013Delhi flights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">This reporting led to revelations about Murtaza Bhutto, son of Pakistan\u2019s former PM Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, seeking support in India against General Zia-ul-Haq\u2019s regime.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Tully later met Murtaza Bhutto in central Delhi.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Emergency-Era Legend<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">During the Emergen<strong>cy<\/strong>, rumours circulated that Tully had falsely reported resignations of Cabinet Ministers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">An alleged order from Indira Gandhi\u2019s inner circle instructed I&amp;B Minister Inder Kumar Gujral to punish and jail Tully.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Gujral refused and later verified that Tully had broadcast no such report, highlighting both political tension and journalistic integrity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Honours and Recognition<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Knighted in 2002<\/strong> by the British Crown.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Awarded <strong>Padma Bhushan in 2005<\/strong> by the Government of India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A regular presence at the Press Club of India and India International Centre, known for accessibility and deep historical insight.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Legacy<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mark Tully transcended his role as a foreign correspondent to become the <strong>\u201cvoice of India\u201d<\/strong> to the world.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">His reporting combined historical depth, cultural sensitivity, and journalistic courage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">He remains a towering figure in Indian journalism, admired for credibility, humility, and narrative skill.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Indian Navy\u2019s First Training Squadron (1TS) Departed from Indonesia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Indian Navy\u2019s First Training Squadron (1TS) departed <strong>Belawan, Indonesia<\/strong>, after a successful three-day port call.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The visit aimed at boosting maritime engagement with Indonesia, a key member of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It also advanced India\u2019s maritime vision of <strong>MAHASAGAR<\/strong> (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Indian Naval Assets Involved<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The port call involved:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>INS Tir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>INS Shardul<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>INS Sujata<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ICGS Sarathi<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Crew members and naval trainees from these vessels actively participated in bilateral engagements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Engagements with the Indonesian Navy<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Personnel engaged extensively with the Indonesian Navy, strengthening:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Professional cooperation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>People-to-people ties<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Activities conducted included:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Professional interactions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Training visits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cultural exchanges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Friendly sports meets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">These interactions fostered mutual understanding, trust, and camaraderie between the two maritime forces.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Training and Professional Exposure<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Indian naval trainees visited facilities of Naval Regional Command I of the Indonesian Navy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The visits provided trainees with:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Insights into operational roles and responsibilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exposure to regional maritime command structures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">This contributed to <strong>capacity building and professional development<\/strong> of future Indian naval officers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Strategic Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Indonesia\u2019s role as a strategic maritime partner in the Indo-Pacific makes such engagements crucial.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The visit reinforced:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India\u2019s commitment to maritime security cooperation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aligns with India\u2019s broader Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The port call highlights the Indian Navy\u2019s focus on training diplomacy and maritime partnerships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthens India\u2013Indonesia defence relations through operational and cultural engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Demonstrates India\u2019s intent to promote a collaborative, rules-based maritime order under the <strong>MAHASAGAR vision<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Deendayal Port Authority (DPA)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Strategic Shift by Deendayal Port Authority (DPA)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">DPA is pivoting from a \u20b927,000\u201330,000 crore mega shipbuilding cluster to a <strong>smaller, faster-to-execute \u20b94,500-crore shipyard<\/strong> at Kandla, Gujarat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The shift reflects a pragmatic response to weak investor interest in the larger project and aims to de-risk capital exposure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The mega shipbuilding cluster at <strong>Veera village (2,000+ acres)<\/strong> remains a long-term vision, to be revived when market conditions improve.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Joint Venture &amp; Key Stakeholders<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">DPA is close to finalising a joint venture with Garden Reach Shipbuilders &amp; Engineers (GRSE).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Other EoI respondents included <strong>JM Baxi<\/strong> and Accurate Industrial Controls (with Korea\u2019s Komac Consultants).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Equity structure<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>DPA will contribute land as equity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GRSE (technology\/operating partner) will contribute shipbuilding expertise, technology, and capital.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project Location &amp; Land Development<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The shipyard will be developed on ~120 acres of reclaimed waterfront land within <strong>Kandla creek<\/strong>, between existing cargo and oil jetties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Land reclamation has begun; earlier encroachments have been removed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">DPA is responsible for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Land acquisition, reclamation, and grading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Waterfront development with required depth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Core civil infrastructure (roads, drainage, boundary walls, utilities, office buildings)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shipyard Capacity &amp; Capabilities<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The shipyard is designed to build:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>At least 2 VLCCs (<\/strong>Very Large Crude Carrier)<strong> or VLGCs(<\/strong>Very Large Gas Carrier)<strong> per year<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Up to 6 Handymax vessels annually<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Operational expectation is ~3 vessels per year initially.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The facility will also support partial in-house manufacturing of electric tugs for DPA.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Designed for future scalability, including offshore structures and expanded capacity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Infrastructure &amp; Capital Investment<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">A VLCC-compliant dry dock is central to the project and the largest cost component.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Estimated cost: <strong>~\u20b91,500 crore<\/strong>, per an L&amp;T study.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">VLCCs typically exceed:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>300 metres in length<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>300,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The project will be executed in three phases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Role of the Technology &amp; Operating Partner<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Responsibilities include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Shipyard design, construction, and commissioning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Installation of workshops, manufacturing equipment, utilities, and launch systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Manpower planning and operational readiness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Short-, medium-, and long-term business planning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Developing a technology roadmap for future expansion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gujarat\u2019s Shipbuilding Landscape<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Kandla yard would become Gujarat\u2019s 11th shipyard, raising total capacity to 5.4 lakh DWT.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Over the last decade:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Six shipyards shut down<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pipavav shipyard<\/strong> was revived by Swan Energy in December 2024<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ABG Shipyard units<\/strong> (Magdalla, Dahej) and <strong>Alcock Ashdown yards<\/strong> (Bhavnagar, Chanch) remain idle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Relationship with the Larger Veera Shipbuilding Cluster<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Kandla project is positioned as a fast-track pilot to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Build execution capability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Develop skilled manpower<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test the JV model<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce risk for future large-scale investments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Once the Veera cluster is operational, the Kandla yard is expected to transition to ship repair and maintenance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Industry &amp; Policy Context (India vs Global Leaders)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">According to <strong>ICRA (2025)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India\u2019s global shipbuilding market share is only <strong>0.06%<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>China, South Korea, and Japan control ~95%<\/strong> of global shipbuilding.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Structural disadvantages for India include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>High working-capital interest rates (9\u201310%)<\/strong> vs <strong>4\u20138%<\/strong> globally<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of an integrated maritime ecosystem (suppliers, R&amp;D, automation)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smaller, less automated shipyards compared to global peers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Assessment<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Kandla shipyard represents a measured, execution-focused entry into large commercial shipbuilding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It balances ambition with realism by prioritising:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Speed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Capital efficiency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Capability building<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Success of this project could restore investor confidence and act as a catalyst for India\u2019s broader shipbuilding ambitions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">VLCCs and VLGCs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Full form:<\/strong> Very Large Crude Carrier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Purpose:<\/strong> Transport <strong>crude oil<\/strong> over long distances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Typical size:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Deadweight tonnage (DWT):<\/strong> ~200,000 to 320,000+ tonnes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Often <strong>300 metres or more<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Key features:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Double-hull design (for safety and pollution control)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extremely deep draft when fully loaded<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Why special dry docks are needed:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Massive length and weight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heavy structural loads during construction and repair<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requires <strong>deep, long, and heavily reinforced dry docks<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>VLGC (Very Large Gas Carrier)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Full form:<\/strong> Very Large Gas Carrier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Purpose:<\/strong> Transport <strong>liquefied gases<\/strong>, mainly:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sometimes ammonia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Typical size:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DWT:<\/strong> ~80,000 to 100,000 tonnes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Around <strong>225\u2013230 metres<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Key features:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Special <strong>pressurised or refrigerated cargo tanks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advanced safety and temperature-control systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Why special dry docks are needed:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complex tank containment systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High safety and quality standards during construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Precise fabrication and testing requirements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Kolhapur\u2013Vaibhavwadi Railway Line<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Landmark infrastructure decision<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The sanctioning of the <strong>Kolhapur\u2013Vaibhavwadi railway line<\/strong> marks a major milestone in Maharashtra\u2019s infrastructure and logistics strategy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It reflects the State\u2019s renewed emphasis on <strong>port-led economic growth<\/strong> and hinterland connectivity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Strategic objectives of the rail corridor<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Designed not merely as a connectivity project but as a logistics and economic catalyst.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aims to improve logistics efficiency, reduce costs, boost agri-exports, and enable inclusive growth in the Konkan region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Policy prioritisation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane have prioritised connecting ports with productive hinterlands.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The project aligns with Maharashtra\u2019s ambition to emerge as a <strong>national maritime and logistics hub<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project details<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Length: <strong>107 km<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expected completion: <strong>Late 2029<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Will connect Konkan Railway with the Central Railway network.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthens trade linkages with <strong>Goa and Karnataka<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Impact on port connectivity<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Addresses long-standing rail connectivity gaps affecting Konkan ports such as <strong>Jaigad, Angre, Redi and Vijaydurg<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">These ports currently handle <strong>23\u201325 million tonnes<\/strong> annually, with a combined potential exceeding <strong>60 million tonnes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Poor rail evacuation has constrained capacity and increased logistics costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Logistics and cost efficiencies<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Cargo movement time expected to reduce by <strong>35\u201340%<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Logistics costs likely to fall by <strong>\u20b9400\u2013700 per tonne<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The corridor is projected to handle <strong>20\u201330 million tonnes of cargo annually<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Investment and industrial impact<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Improved connectivity expected to attract port-based and logistics investments over the next decade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Growth opportunities in shipbuilding, marine services, coastal logistics, and port-linked industries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Positive spillover effects on MSMEs, coastal industries, and tourism.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Benefits to agriculture and agri-exports<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Western Maharashtra\u2019s agriculture-driven economy currently faces high transport costs and long port access times.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Rail connectivity will benefit farmers, FPOs, food processors, and agri-logistics players.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Perishable cargo transit times may reduce by <strong>6\u20138 hours<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Logistics costs for agri produce could drop by 15\u201320%.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cold-chain and export competitiveness<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Faster access to cold chains, reefer transport, and export terminals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enhanced competitiveness in horticulture, spices, cashew, fisheries, and processed foods.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Role of Jaigarh port<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>JSW Jaigarh Port<\/strong> is exploring direct handling of agricultural exports.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Currently, exports are routed via <strong>JNPT<\/strong>, ~350 km away, costing ~\u20b960,000 per container and causing two days of port holding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Direct exports via Jaigarh could:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduce logistics costs by ~<strong>10%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cut turnaround time by <strong>up to two days<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable fresher produce and better price realisation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Regional development outcomes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Positions Jaigarh as a key agri-export gateway for <strong>mango, cashew, kokum, spices, and processed foods<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expected to generate direct and indirect employment, boost tourism revenue, and support balanced regional growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Bharat Parv 2026 Event Overview Inauguration &amp; Dignitaries Theme &amp; Significance Key Messages from Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla Key Messages from Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Objectives of Bharat Parv\u20132026 Major Attractions Participation &amp; Scale Festival Timings Overall Significance Relics dating to the Neolithic period at Lakkundi village, Gadag district of Karnataka 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