National News
First trial run of Vande Bharat from Katra to Srinagar conducted successfully
Jammu, Jan 25: Indian railways on Saturday carried out the successful trial run of Vande Bharat train from Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra town to Srinagar marking the end of all technical inspections and trials before operationalisation of the passenger service on the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL).
The trial run of the Vande Bharat train was conducted from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station to Srinagar station on Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge.
The train will also pass through Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. Climate adaptability has also been factored in while designing the train, keeping in mind the comfort of the passengers when it comes to travelling in the cold climatic conditions of the valley.
The train can operate at temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. The chair-car train boasts advanced heating systems to prevent freezing in water and bio-toilet tanks.
In a big boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make In India’ initiative, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had pointed out earlier that several other nations have expressed their interest in getting semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains from India.
Vande Bharat trains, seen as a ‘Make In India’ success story by many, have improved safety features like the Kavach technology and state-of-the-art amenities, including accessible toilets for persons with disabilities and integrated Braille signage.
The first passenger train will now run on the track in February and Prime Minister Modi is expected to inaugurate the first Vande Bharat train to the Valley from Katra railway station.
The dream of a train to Kashmir has been cherished for a long, as it will boost tourism, horticulture, trade, travel and education.
The all-weather, comfortable railway commute will end all hassles faced by the people of the valley in travelling outside during the winter months when a small trickle of rain or snow forces the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar national highway for days.
National News
Republic Day 2025: Here Are The Top 5 Events You Should Witness In The Country’s Capital
New Delhi: As India gears up to celebrate its 76th Republic Day, Delhi-NCR is ready to host an array of grand events that will fill the air with patriotism and pride. From historic flag-hoisting ceremonies to cultural festivals and iconic parades, this year’s celebrations promise to be unforgettable. Here’s a guide to the top 5 events you must attend on January 26, 2025 in Delhi.
Republic Day Parade at Rajpath
The Republic Day Parade at Rajpath is undoubtedly the highlight of the celebrations. This awe-inspiring event showcases India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and technological progress. Witness marching contingents and rhythmic drumbeats that will make your heart swell with pride. As the elegant soldiers march in perfect unison, you’ll feel the true spirit of national unity and progress.
Flag-Hoisting ceremony at Red Fort
Kickstart your Republic Day with the symbolic Flag-Hoisting ceremony at Red Fort. The moment the national flag rises against the backdrop of the iconic red sandstone fort is a sight to cherish forever. Followed by a parade and cultural performances, this event captures India’s journey as a republic. While you’re there, explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the fort, soaking in the essence of India’s glorious past.
Cultural Festival at India Gate
Celebrate the diversity of India at the Cultural Festival held at India Gate. The venue will come alive with music, dance, and theatre performances from all corners of the country. Food lovers can indulge in traditional Indian delicacies, while shoppers can browse through beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs. This cultural fest is designed in a way that it has a little something for everyone to visit and enjoy at this festival.
Musical concert at Jawaharlal Nehru stadium
You can bring a melodious end to your day at the Musical Concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Featuring a star-studded lineup of singers and musicians, this concert blends patriotic and popular songs in a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. With stunning light shows and electrifying performances, the concert is the perfect finale to a day of celebration.
Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk
Conclude the Republic Day festivities with the iconic Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk. Against the breathtaking backdrop of Rashtrapati Bhavan, military bands, drummers, and buglers create a magical atmosphere. The ceremony resonates with patriotic tunes and emotions of nostalgia, courage, and unity, leaving you overwhelmed and proud of the nation you belong to.
Crime
Gujarat: Illegal foreign liquor valued at Rs 25.83 lakh seized, one arrested
Vadodara, Jan 25: Illegal foreign liquor, valued at Rs 25.83 lakh, has been seized from a tempo in Chanod of Gujarat’s Vadodara district.
Acting on specific intelligence regarding the transportation of illegal foreign liquor from Tilakwada to Vadodara, Gujarat State Monitoring Cell’s Police Inspector HV Tadvi conducted a raid in Chanod with his teams.
They spotted a suspicious tempo near a godown in Chanod and searched it.
Upon inspection, the teams discovered the liquor concealed in the tempo.
The driver of the tempo, identified as Ajitkumar Hriday Narayan Singh, a resident of Ankleshwar, Bharuch, was arrested.
Singh was transporting the illegal cargo from Tilakwada to Vadodara.
In addition to the liquor, the authorities also seized cash, mobile phones, and vehicles, bringing the total value of the seized goods to Rs 39.31 lakh.
The SMC has declared Suresh Patel, the individual who sent the liquor, the tempo owner, and the person who ordered the liquor, as wanted.
This raid comes amidst multiple actions by the State Monitoring Cell over the past month, targeting illegal liquor trade in both Vadodara city and district.
Despite these frequent raids, local police have come under scrutiny, with some alleging that they have failed to take sufficient action against bootleggers.
In 2024, Gujarat authorities seized foreign liquor worth over Rs 100 crore during various raids across the state. This included seizures in major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and rural areas like Panchmahals and Bharuch.
Foreign liquor, including high-end brands, has been smuggled into the state through neighbouring Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
Raids targeting these illegal shipments have been a regular feature of Gujarat’s law enforcement activities.
In 2023, more than 200 individuals were arrested for illegal liquor trade in Gujarat. These included bootleggers, suppliers, and distributors involved in the smuggling and distribution of alcohol in areas where it is prohibited.
Entertainment
Motu Patlu celebrates Republic Day with BSF Jawans and FTE kids
Mumbai, Jan 25: Nick India celebrated Republic Day 2025 by partnering with the Border Security Force (BSF) at the iconic Attari-Wagah Border. Not just that, they even brought kids from the FTE School of Round Table India and their favorite Nicktoons, Motu and Patlu for a day filled with pride and joy alongside our brave jawans.
Nick India kickstarted the day with the beloved Motu and Patlu cheering with the crowd. The National Flag hoisting ceremony was followed by the kids from the FTE School of Round Table India, Motu, and Patlu standing proudly alongside the BSF jawans as the tricolour waved.
TR Anterpreet Singh Sahni, Chairman Area 18, Round Table India, along with TR Nitin Mehra, Chairman, Amritsar Round Table talked about the Republic Day celebration. They were quoted saying, “It was a wonderful experience for our children from the FTE School of Round Table India to celebrate Republic Day at the Attari-Wagah Border with Nick India and the Border Security Force (BSF). Witnessing the ceremony up close, especially with their favorite Motu Patlu, truly made them feel connected, proud, and excited about the significance of Republic Day.”
During the Republic Day celebration, the kids from the FTE School of Round Table India learned about the significance of Republic Day and the values embedded in the Constitution of India.
Additionally, as part of the celebrations, the kids were asked questions like “What does Republic Day mean to you?” To this, the children replied, “Helping others makes our country stronger.” Another question they were asked was, “What are some ways people can help the country?” Kids answered saying, “Keeping our surroundings clean”.
Nick India’s latest The Republic Day initiative at the Attari-Wagah Border, led by Motu and Patlu will be a great learning experience for the future generation of the country. The pictures from the event have also been doing rounds on social media.
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