January 2, 2026 Friday India This Week 1 A We e k ly N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng New s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tinent Pub li s h ed From th e U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No.1 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday January 2, 2026 ‘Made in India’ must become a symbol of global excellence, competitiveness: PM Modi at National Conference of Chief Secretaries New Delhi [India], December 28 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries in Delhi on Sunday. The three-day conference was held at Pusa, Delhi, from December 26 to 28. The Prime Minister observed that the conference marked another decisive step in strengthening the spirit of cooperative federalism and deepening Centre-State partnership to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat. The Prime Minister emphasised that Human Capital— comprising knowledge, skills, health, and capabilities—is the fundamental driver of economic growth and social progress and must be developed through a coordinated Whole-ofGovernment approach. The conference included discussions around the overarching theme of “Human Capital for Viksit Bharat.” Highlighting India’s demographic advantage, PM Modi stated that nearly 70 per cent of the population is in the working-age group, creating a unique historical opportunity which, when combined with economic progress, can significantly accelerate India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. He said India has boarded the “Reform Express,” driven primarily by the strength of its young population, and empowering this demographic remains the government’s key priority. The Prime Minister noted that the conference is being held at a time when the country is witnessing nextgeneration reforms and moving steadily towards becoming a significant global economic power. He observed that Viksit Bharat is synonymous with quality and excellence and urged all stakeholders to move beyond average outcomes. Emphasising quality in governance, service delivery, and manufacturing, PM Modi stated that the label “Made in India” must become a symbol of excellence and global competitiveness. He stressed the need to strengthen Aatmanirbharta, stating that India must pursue self-reliance with zero defect in products and minimal environmental impact, reinforcing the commitment to “Zero Defect, Zero Effect.” He urged the Centre and States to jointly identify 100 products for domestic manufacturing to reduce import dependence and strengthen economic resilience in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat. The Prime Minister also emphasised the need to map skill demand at the State and global levels to better design skill development strategies. In higher education, he suggested stronger collaboration between academia and industry to develop highquality talent. On youth livelihoods, PM Modi highlighted tourism as a major opportunity, noting that India’s rich heritage and history give it the potential to be among the top global tourist destinations. He urged States to develop a roadmap to create at least one globallevel tourist destination and nurture an entire tourism ecosystem. On sports, the Prime Minister said it is essential to align India’s national sports calendar Made In India See page 6 “Landmark Year for UK-India Defence Partnership,” UK Lauds Defence Cooperation with India in 2025 New Delhi [India], December 29 (ANI): The UK Embassy’s Defence Section on Monday highlighted the India-UK partnership in the defence sector, calling 2025 a landmark year. According to the UK Embassy’s Defence Section, the year featured historic naval exercises and groundbreaking industrial collaboration. “As 2025 draws to a close, we’re reflecting on a landmark year for the UK-India defence partnership. From historic naval exercises to groundbreaking industrial collaboration, here’s what we achieved together,” the post read. The Defence Section highlighted the launch of Defence Partnership – India (DPI) at Aero India 2025, establishing a dedicated program office within the UK Ministry of Defence to strengthen bilateral defence collaboration. Contracts were signed between Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited for Laser Beam Riding MANPADs, with STARStreak missiles delivered this year. MBDA UK and BDL also installed a first-of-itskind ASRAAM facility in Hyderabad, creating jobs and capabilities in both nations. In technology, the two countries signed a Statement of Intent to develop Integrated Full Electric Propulsion systems for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock fleet, supporting India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. The year also saw significant milestones in the maritime sector. HMS Prince of Wales and INS Vikrant led their respective carrier strike groups in Exercise Konkan, marking the first time British and Indian carrier groups exercised together in the Western Indian Ocean. Exercise Ajeya Warrior VIII concluded with the British Army and India’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information units conducting complex counterterrorism training, sharing tactics, and strengthening interoperability in a rapidly evolving security environment. The UK-India 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap, part of the UKIndia Vision 2035, has delivered economic growth, strengthened supply chains, and demonstrated the role of defence as an engine for growth. The UK Embassy noted that 2025 showed what is possible when two major democracies work together—creating jobs, enhancing security, and building resilient industries that benefit communities across both nations. India-UK defence ties were further highlighted during the eighth edition of the biennial Indo-UK Army exercise, Ajeya Warrior, which concluded on November 30 after nearly two weeks of intensive training at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. This year’s exercise focused on conducting peaceenforcement operations in a counterterrorism environment, in line with Chapter 7 of the United Nations Charter, involving simulated operations in multi-domain urban and semi-urban settings.
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January 2, 2026 Friday India This Week Opposition condemns acts of vandalism during Christmas; BJP says Law and Order maintained New Delhi [India], December 26 (ANI): Incidents of vandalism and alleged targeted attacks during Christmas celebrations across several states have triggered sharp political reactions, with opposition parties criticising the BJP, while the ruling party has maintained that law and order are being firmly upheld. Reports of disruptions emerged from multiple states, including Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Odisha, where Christian communities reported vandalism, intimidation and harassment during Christmas celebrations. While authorities said the situation remains under control, opposition leaders described the incidents as part of a disturbing national pattern. Incidents of violence and disruption marred Christmas celebrations across India. In Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, a BJP official allegedly assaulted a visually impaired Christian woman during a children’s feast, while mobs disrupted church services. In Palakkad, Kerala, an RSS worker attacked carolsinging children and destroyed their instruments. Right-wing pressure led several schools to cancel festivities. Chhattisgarh saw vandalism and arson attacks on Christian properties in Raipur and Kanker. Similar incidents occurred in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly, where groups protested outside a cathedral. In Delhi and Odisha, street vendors selling Christmas items faced harassment, with vigilantes claiming the items were “non-Hindu”. The most prominent incident was reported from Assam’s Nalbari district, where miscreants vandalised Christmas decorations at St Mary’s English School ahead of celebrations. Assam Police arrested four members of the Bajrang Dal and Vishva Hindu Parishad — Bhaskar Dey, Jyoti Padgiri, Biju Dutta, and Nayan Talukdar — who damaged the outer decorations, street lights, plant pots, and other articles, as well as setting some things on fire. N a l b a r i Superintendent of Police Bibekananda Das said the incident occurred on December 24 and that a case was registered after the school authorities informed the police. “The accused have been arrested and will be produced before the court. Further investigation is underway, and action will be taken against others based on video evidence,” he said. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the government was firmly committed to maintaining peace and communal harmony. “In connection with the vandalism at St Mary’s English School, Panigaon, under Belsor Police Station, Nalbari district, the miscreants involved have been arrested. Assam Police acted promptly, and further action will be taken strictly in accordance with the law. We are fully committed to maintaining peace, communal harmony, and ensuring the safety of all institutions and citizens across the state,” Sarma wrote on X. However, the incident triggered strong political reactions. Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi alleged that such acts were part of what he termed the “politics of hatred,” accusing the ruling party of fostering communal tension. He also linked the incident to alleged corruption in the Jal Jeevan Mission, claiming attempts were being made to divert attention through communal disturbances. “This is a direct attack on the constitutional framework. It is yet another manifestation of the ruling party’s continuous attempts to divide society. I strongly condemn the desecration of festive items and religious symbols in a school in Nalbari. The sitting MLA is the Minister responsible for the massive corruption in the Jal Jeevan Mission scheme. He is another close aide of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. After the recent state-wide Congress-led protests against the JJM scam, the BJP Minister needs the VHP and Bajrang Dal to regain his position within his party. Fraternity is enshrined in the preamble of the Indian Constitution. Next year, after Congress comes to power in Assam, we will enact a strict law that will strictly punish any person or group of persons responsible for desecrating the places of worship or rituals of a religious group, be it Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain or Sikh,” Gogoi said on X. The issue resonated across the country, with several opposition leaders condemning the incidents. Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh accused rightwing outfits of targeting religious minorities. Ghosh told reporters, “BJP’s associates, such as Bajrang Dal and others, are targeting other religions, which is not what our culture teaches. What the Constitution says, the BJP does exactly the opposite. What they have done is wrong, and we condemn it.” CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat also condemned the incidents, saying attacks on Christmas celebrations reflected an assault on constitutional values. “This communal gang, which launched a massive attack on Christians in various parts of the country on the pretext of the Christmas festival, and also attacked anything associated with this festival, such as Santa Claus hats or Christmas decorations, has acted against the culture, values, and constitution of our country,” she said. “The only reason these people have dared to do this is that the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, and the RSS chief are all openly advocating for a Hindutva nation, and in the name of a Hindutva nation, they have given free rein to organisations like the Bajrang Dal and VHP,” Karat added. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said Christmas 2025 had been marked by “fear and anxiety” in several parts of the country. Referring to incidents in Kerala, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, he said attacks on carol groups and religious symbols were an attack on India’s pluralistic fabric. Tharoor on X wrote, “Violence and intimidation have no place in a civilised society, and certainly not in the vibrant tapestry of India… When one community is threatened, all others must stand as a shield. Coexistence requires justice. Authorities must act swiftly and impartially against hooliganism. Impunity for mobs emboldens division; accountability restores trust…” BJP leaders, however, rejected allegations of inaction. Assam BJP leader Manab Deka said the government would not tolerate any wrongdoing. “The police have arrested everyone involved. This should not have happened,” he said. Assam Assembly Deputy Speaker Numal Momin also condemned the vandalism, saying, “I oppose any action that goes against religion. This is unfortunate.” Religious leaders also expressed anguish. Father Anand David Xalxo of St Mary Cathedral in Ranchi said the incidents were deeply painful for the Christian community. “It really pinches us because Christians are peace-loving communities. If such things happen, some incident takes place, it really gives us a kind of pain. We follow what Jesus taught us. He said that you forgive the people who speak against you, who persecute you, you forgive them, and you pray for them. Being a Christian, being a priest, it is my responsibility to pray for such people and may God give them the wisdom and knowledge so that they can change their way of thinking,” he added. (ANI) Concerns over the health of India’s democratic institutions have been mounting in recent weeks. Writing in this newspaper last week, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor warned that parliamentary democracy is facing an unprecedented crisis and risks serious erosion. While democratic processes may eventually recover, observers argue that restoring India’s tradition of pluralism could prove far more challenging. During the recent Christmas season, several incidents were reported across the country involving disruptions of Christian celebrations. Groups identified with the Sangh Parivar were accused of targeting public displays associated with Christmas, including vandalising Santa Claus statues and removing festive decorations from malls and other public spaces. In some instances, individuals wearing Santa Claus caps were reportedly confronted and told to confine celebrations to their homes. More serious allegations included attempts to disrupt church services. Videos circulating on social media showed groups entering churches and interrupting prayers. In one such video, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator was seen inside a church in Jabalpur, questioning and accusing a visually impaired woman of attempting religious conversion. The authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified, but it has drawn widespread attention and criticism. According to unverified estimates, nearly a hundred attempts were made nationwide to interfere with Christmas festivities, with most incidents reported from states governed by the BJP. Critics note that there were no immediate reports of punitive action against those involved, nor were there public condemnations of the incidents by chief ministers of the affected states. Analysts and civil society voices have warned that such episodes, if left unaddressed, risk undermining India’s longstanding commitment to religious diversity and coexistence. While political systems can be reformed and institutions rebuilt, they caution that rebuilding trust between communities and reviving pluralism may require far greater effort and moral leadership. India’s Pluralism Faces a Difficult Revival: Tavleen Singh
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January 2, 2026 Friday India This Week Union Civil Aviation Minister ‘Made in India’ must become a inaugurates DHRUV-NG in Bengaluru symbol of global excellence, competitiveness Made In India From Page 1 with the global sports calendar, especially as India is working towards hosting the 2036 Olympics. PM Modi said infrastructure and the sports ecosystem must meet international standards, and young talent must be identified, nurtured, and trained over the next decade to achieve desired results. Organising sports events at local and district levels and maintaining player data will help create a vibrant sports environment. The Prime Minister announced that India would soon launch the National Manufacturing Mission (NMM) and said every State must prioritise it by building infrastructure to attract global companies. He emphasised improving Ease of Doing Business, particularly in land, utilities, and social infrastructure. Calling for greater focus on the services sector, PM Modi said areas such as healthcare, education, transport, tourism, professional services, and AI must be strengthened to make India a Global Services Giant. As India aspires to become the world’s food basket, the Prime Minister stressed the need to shift towards high-value agriculture, dairy, and fisheries with a focus on exports. He pointed out that the PM Dhan Dhanya Scheme has identified 100 districts with lower productivity, and similarly urged States to address learning outcomes in the 100 lowest-performing districts. PM Modi also called upon States to use the Gyan Bharatam Mission to digitise manuscripts and suggested launching Statelevel Abhiyans for this purpose. He said that once digitised, AI can be used to synthesise the wisdom and knowledge contained in these manuscripts. The Prime Minister noted that the conference reflects India’s tradition of collective thinking and constructive policy dialogue and has become an effective platform for collective deliberation. He urged States to align governance with the outcomes of Chief Secretaries’ and DGPs’ Conferences. He suggested replicating such conferences at departmental levels to promote a national perspective among officers and improve governance outcomes. PM Modi also said all States and UTs must prepare capacity-building plans in consultation with the Capacity Building Commission. Highlighting the importance of technology, the Prime Minister stressed the need for AI use in governance and enhanced cybersecurity awareness. He said technology can provide secure and stable solutions throughout the lifecycle and must be leveraged to improve governance quality. In conclusion, PM Modi said every State must create 10-year actionable plans with 1-, 2-, 5-, and 10-year targets, using technology for regular monitoring. The conference emphasised key themes including Early Childhood Education, Schooling, Skilling, Higher Education, and Sports, recognising their role in building a future-ready workforce. The deliberations reflected the spirit of Team India, focusing on timebound implementation, citizen-centric governance, institutional strengthening, and data-driven monitoring. Special sessions covered themes such as deregulation, technology in governance, AgriStack, tourism development, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and plans for a post-Left-Wing Extremism future. The conference was attended by Chief Secretaries, senior officials from all States and Union Territories, domain experts, and senior officers at the Centre. (ANI) B e n g a l u r u (Karnataka) [India], December 30 (ANI): Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday inaugurated DHRUV-NG, the nextgeneration civil helicopter, at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru.HAL Chairman & Managing Director Dr DK Sunil was also present on the occasion. Naidu also flagged off the inaugural flight of the Advanced Light Helicopter, DHRUVNG, a civil variant of the indigenous helicopter showcased by HAL at the 2025 Aero India show. According to HAL, the DHRUVNG is a 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter engineered to master the diverse and demanding requirements of the Indian terrain. It is specifically upgraded to meet the rigorous demands of the global civil aviation market.It has been designed for enhanced safety, performance, and passenger comfort. The helicopter represents a milestone in indigenous rotary-wing capability. The DHRUVNG is equipped with twin Shakti 1H1C engines, delivering higher power ratings and enabling internal maintenance in India.HAL said it features a civil-certified Glass Cockpit compliant with AS4 requirements and a modern avionics suite for superior situational awareness. It features advanced vibration-control systems that ensure a smooth ride, tailored for VIP and medical transport. According to HAL, the INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Dr. Babu Stephen Chief Editor: Rajan George Contributing Editors: Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” Jesus Christ maximum take-off weight of DHRUV-NG is 5,500 kg, and it reaches a maximum speed of 285 km/h.It has a maximum capacity to carry 14 passengers. The Dhruv Civil NG is a cost-effective, highperformance alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters. HAL offers a “One-Stop Solution” for manufacturing, maintenance, and upgrades. Operational support is provided through integrated logistics models, including Power-By-Hour (PBH) and Performance-Based Logistics (PBL), ensuring high fleet serviceability. (ANI) The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- December 19, 2025 Pirates By Rajan George Born of greed or desperate need, Piracy cannot be excused. Devoid of virtue, steeped in cruelty, Base men impose their will by force— Offering no service, pleading no cause. Pirates are a breed of ruthless monsters, Unleashing terror on the unsuspecting. They strip their victims of all they own, Torture them, and leave them desolate. Men without conscience, empathy, or love, Ready to rob a person, a group, a traveler— Anyone who crosses their path Is fair game, for escape is denied. Like spiders, they set their traps, Lying in wait to hunt their prey. Ordinary people on simple errands Are ensnared, fodder for these beasts. Sharing no virtue, they are a scourge Upon the very society they inhabit. They exploit the weak and vulnerable, With no restraint, no fear of justice. They live only for the moment; The future is of no concern. If caught, they wriggle free, Returning to their trade without remorse. A society that tolerates them Gives life to these evil monsters, Unaware they will strike anyone— Even those who wink or lend support.
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January 2, 2026 Friday India This Week India Remembers Its Son Ratan Tata on His 88th Birth Anniversary New Delhi, December 28 (ANI): India on Sunday remembered its son, late Ratan Tata, on his 88th birth anniversary, paying tribute to the legendary industrialist and philanthropist whose life and values left an indelible mark on the nation. Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran paid his respects to Ratan Tata at Bombay House by garlanding the statue of the former chairman of the Tata Group. Ratan Tata believed that true philanthropy was never personal and that leadership carried the responsibility of transforming influence into positive change. Reflecting on his legacy, Tata Trusts said that under his guidance, philanthropy evolved from charity into a strategic, results-driven approach addressing healthcare, education, livelihoods, women’s empowerment, and other areas, with a strong focus on longterm transformation and community resilience. Tata Trusts noted that his vision recognized that meaningful progress requires more than addressing socioeconomic gaps alone. It emphasized the importance of collaboration between innovation, supportive technology, and a deep understanding of local needs to ensure solutions are thoughtful, scalable, and reach those who need them most. The trust said the values he stood for continue to guide and shape its collective purpose. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Ratan Tata on his birth anniversary, saying he reshaped Indian enterprise with integrity and compassion. Shah said that from building indigenous industry to selfless philanthropy, Tata demonstrated that true success lies in service to the nation, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire a self-reliant India. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remembered Ratan Tata as a great visionary who built not just enterprises but also trust, compassion, and faith in Indian excellence on the global stage. He said Tata’s humility and vision remain a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs and citizens. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described Ratan Tata as a visionary industrialist and compassionate leader who devoted his life to business excellence and philanthropy. He said Tata’s integrity, humility, and commitment to society would continue to inspire generations. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also paid homage, calling Ratan Tata a titan of India Inc. who redefined India’s industrial and business landscape through ethical and compassionate leadership. Union Minister Piyush Goyal said Ratan Tata’s leadership seamlessly blended innovation with compassion, redefining the role of Indian enterprise in national development. He added that the institutions Tata nurtured and the values he championed continue to guide generations. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said Ratan Tata’s life of integrity, humility, and compassion, coupled with his extraordinary commitment to philanthropy and nationbuilding, set a benchmark for ethical leadership. Ratan Tata played a pivotal role in transforming the Tata Group into a global powerhouse with interests spanning steel, automobiles, software, and telecommunications. Early in his career, he worked with several Tata companies, including Tata Motors, formerly Telco, and Tata Steel, and revitalized the National Radio and Electronics Company. In 1991, he succeeded J.R.D. Tata as chairman of the Tata Group and introduced significant organizational reforms, including enforcing retirement ages and promoting younger talent to leadership roles. Under his leadership, Tata Consultancy Services was listed in 2004, capitalizing on the IT boom, while Tata Teleservices was set up in 1996. His tenure saw major international acquisitions, including Tetley Tea in 2000, VSNL in 2002, Corus Steel in 2007, and Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford in 2008. He also played a key role in the Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India from the government in January 2022 and launched the Tata Nano, a lowcost car aimed at making personal mobility more accessible. After stepping down from active leadership, Ratan Tata emerged as a prominent investor in Indian startups, backing companies such as Paytm, Ola Electric, and Urban Company. Ratan Naval Tata Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], December 29 (ANI): Odisha Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena on Monday defended the state government’s decision to deny petrol and diesel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate, saying the move is not new and is necessary in view of worsening air quality.”This is not a new rule. We wrote a letter to get this implemented so that people without a pollution certificate would not be able to buy petrol or diesel,” Jena told ANI. Questioning the public backlash, he added, “I don’t understand why people are agitated by this. The AQI in Odisha is poor.”The minister acknowledged concerns over penalties and enforcement, noting that the issue would be reviewed. “People are complaining that a hefty fine is being imposed. I will deliberate on this matter,” he said, while confirming that the rule will come into effect from February 1.The Odisha government’s move comes against the backdrop of intensified anti-pollution measures in the national capital, where authorities have begun strictly enforcing similar norms. In Delhi, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) are being denied fuel at petrol pumps as part of emergency measures to curb rising pollution levels.Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa recently inspected several fuel stations to ensure compliance with the directive. The Delhi government, through the Department of Environment and Forests, has issued directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, mandating that fuel be dispensed only to vehicles with a valid PUC certificate. Additionally, the Delhi notification restricts the entry of vehicles registered outside the capital and operating below BS-VI emission standards, and bans trucks carrying construction materials during GRAP Stage IV (Severe+) pollution conditions. These steps follow the Supreme Court’s granting permission to take action against vehicles operating below BSIV norms in the NCR. Transport enforcement teams in Delhi-NCR have stepped up checks as part of coordinated efforts to improve air quality. (ANI) graduated in architecture from Cornell University and joined the Tata Group in 1962, which was founded by his greatgrandfather, Jamsetji Tata. A licensed pilot, he was known for his quiet demeanor, modest lifestyle, and deep commitment to philanthropy. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. He also received numerous national and international honors, including the Assam Baibhav in 2021, Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia in 2023, Honorary Doctor of Science from IIT Bombay in 2008, Honorary Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 2014, and the Honorary Citizen Award from the Government of Singapore in 2008. Industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86. He served as chairman of the Ratan Tata Trust and the Dorabji Tata Trust, two of India’s largest privatesector philanthropic trusts, and remains one of the most respected figures in Indian business and public life. No fuel without PUC certificate from Feb 1: Odisha Transport Minister defends move amid pollution concerns
“Deeply saddened”: PM Modi condoles death of Khaleda Zia, recalls 2015 meeting in Dhaka New Delhi [India], December 30 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, extending condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said he was “deeply saddened” to learn about the passing of Khaleda Zia, who died at the age of 80 and prayed for strength for her family to bear the loss.” Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss,” the Prime Minister said.Begum Khaleda Zia died in the early morning today while she was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka at the age of 80. According to a BNP statement on Facebook, Zia died at around 6 am (local time), shortly after the Fajr prayer.” Khaleda Zia passed away at around 6:00 am, just after Fajr prayer,” the BNP statement read.” We pray for the eternal peace of her soul and ask everyone to pray for her departed soul,” it added.Zia was admitted to the capital Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital on November 23 with a lung infection. The former Prime Minister has been suffering from various physical ailments, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney complications, for a long time, and earlier this month, she was sent to London for advanced medical treatment for her ailments. This morning a large crowd gathered outside the hospital even as Begum Zia’s son and Acting Chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman, arrived to pay his respects to his late mother. Recalling her political legacy, PM Modi in his post noted that as the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia made significant contributions to the country’s development and to India-Bangladesh relations, adding that her vision and legacy would continue to guide bilateral ties.” As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations, will always be remembered. I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace,” the PM added. (ANI) January 2, 2026 Friday 5 Family HAircut $ Over 40 Years Of Experience Men • Women • Children ROOT TOUCH-UP FOR MEN 20 $ & up SERVICES • Beard Trim $500 • Shampoo $1000 • Blow Dry $1000 st $ 00 • Perm from 20 $ 00 • Color from 20 • Highlights from $3500 • Spa Pedicure from $1700 1 Hair Cut Salon & Barber Shop 7364 McWhorter Place Annandale, VA Hours: Monday -Saturday 10am -5pm 9
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