THE HEADLINES :
⦁ राष्ट्र आज 13 दिसंबर 2001 को संसद पर हुए आतंकवादी हमले के शहीदों को श्रद्धांजलि अर्पित कर रहा है। उपराष्ट्रपति, प्रधानमंत्री और केंद्रीय मंत्रियों ने संसद भवन में शहीदों को पुष्पांजलि अर्पित की।
⦁ Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan asserts Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
⦁ केरल के स्थानीय निकाय चुनावों में विपक्षी यूनाइटेड डेमोक्रेटिक फ्रंट और सत्ताधारी लेफ्ट डेमोक्रेटिक फ्रंट अधिकांश जिलों में आगे, भाजपा के नेतृत्व वाली एनडीए ने तिरुवनंतपुरम नगर निगम में महत्वपूर्ण बढ़त हासिल की।
⦁ And three members of the US House of Representatives introduce a resolution to overturn President Donald Trump’s national emergency declaration, enabling tariffs of up to 50 percent, on imports from India.
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And now, time for our segment Dateline India, in which we take a look at the developments taking place at the national or global level. Today,
Project Cheetah marks a significant step in India’s biodiversity restoration efforts, aiming to re-establish a once lost specie. Launched on 17 September 2022, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi released eight cheetahs from Namibia into Kuno National Park, Project Cheetah has grown into one of the country’s most significant conservation successes. Our correspondent reports that India brought eight cheetahs from Botswana this year.
जानवरों के संरक्षण के लिए भारत एक ऐतिहासिक पहल, प्रोजेक्ट चीता को आगे बढ़ा रहा है। ये पहल देश में चीतों की आबादी को पुनर्जीवित करने में सहायक रहा है। अब अगर आंकडों की बात करें तो कुनो राष्ट्रीय उद्यान में 30 चीते हैं, जिनमें 12 वयस्क, 9 किशोर और 9 शावक शामिल हैं। साथ ही आपको बता दूं कि इनमें से 19 चीते का जन्म भारतीय धरती पर हुआ है। इस वर्ष की बड़ी सफलता तब मिली जब भारत में पैदा हुए पहले चीते के शावक, मुखी ने पांच स्वस्थ शावकों को जन्म दिया, जिससे जंगल में दूसरी पीढ़ी का आगमन हुआ।
For the project, over 450 Cheetah Mitras have been trained, 380 direct jobs have been created, and 5 percent of eco-tourism revenue is now being shared with villages around Kuno. These efforts are strengthening both conservation outcomes and rural livelihoods.
Going forward, the project aims to establish a self-sustaining metapopulation of 60 to 70 cheetahs across the Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape by 2032. Project Cheetah stands as a landmark in global wildlife diplomacy, built on deep, formalised cooperation between India and African range countries.
राष्ट्रीय बाघ संरक्षण प्राधिकरण ने भारत में संस्थापक आबादी बनाने के लिए, उपलब्धता के आधार पर, पांच वर्षों तक प्रतिवर्ष 8 से 14 चीतों को भारत लाना। दीर्घकालिक योजना कई स्थानों पर चीतों की एक व्यापक आबादी स्थापित करना है, जिससे प्राकृतिक फैलाव, प्रजनन और विस्तार संभव हो सके। नामीबिया, बोत्सवाना और दक्षिण अफ्रीका के उच्च स्तरीय प्रतिनिधिमंडलों ने भविष्य में होने वाले स्थानांतरणों पर चर्चा करने के लिए इस वर्ष जून से सितंबर के बीच भारत का दौरा किया था। अब उम्मीद है कि चीतों का अगला जत्था जल्द ही भारत लाया जाएगा।
Project officials say the experience of managing Cheetah has been invaluable. “When cheetahs were first brought in, we were told they did not drink water. But here we have seen them queue up at water holes. These learnings are unique to Indian conditions, and we are constantly adapting,” one official remarked.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s personal vision and sustained intervention have been the driving force behind Project Cheetah, transforming a decades-old dream into a living reality. From directing the formulation of the 2022 Action Plan and pushing for the world’s first inter-continental cheetah translocation, to personally releasing the first eight Namibian cheetahs into Kuno National Park on 17 September 2022, he has remained deeply invested at every stage. He facilitated high-level MoUs with Namibia in July 2022 and South Africa in January 2023, engaged the nation by inviting citizens through Mann Ki Baat to name the cheetahs, and consistently highlighted milestones such as the birth of the first Indian cubs in 2023.
प्रधानमंत्री नरेन्द्र मोदी ने इस परियोजना को विज्ञान-आधारित, समुदाय-समावेशी पुनर्वनरोपण के वैश्विक प्रतीक के रूप में स्थापित किया है। साथ ही यह पहल मिशन लाइफ और भारत के जी20 के आदर्श वाक्य “एक पृथ्वी, एक परिवार, एक भविष्य” से जोड़कर बनाई गई है। प्रधानमंत्री ने यह सुनिश्चित किया है कि भारत में सात दशकों से खामोश चीते की दहाड़ एक बार फिर भारत की धरती में गूंजे।
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The 2027 national census – arguably the largest administrative and statistical exercise in the world – will run from April 2026 to February 2027 and be conducted with the help of a mobile application for data collection purposes.The Union Cabinet has cleared eleven lakh seven hundred and eighteen point two four crore Rupees in funds for the census. Census will be held over two phases – a) house-listing from April to September 2026, and b) population enumeration till February 2027. For Ladakh and snow-bound, non-synchronous areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, the latter will be in September 2026.
अनुजा इस जनगणना की महत्वपूर्ण बात यह है कि इसमें जाति गणना भी शामिल होगी। साथ ही संबंधित डेटा इलेक्ट्रॉनिक रूप से दर्ज किया जाएगा। इस विशाल कार्य को पूरा करने के लिए तीस लाख कर्मियों को लगाया जाएगा। जनगणना अधिकारी – जिन्हें गणनाकर्ता कहा जाता है, विस्तृत प्रश्नावली के साथ प्रत्येक घर का दौरा करेंगे।
As in the case of BLOs conducting the voter re-verification drives in various states, including Bengal and Tamil Nadu, which vote next year, they will be appointed by the concerned state government and will also hold down their day jobs. Other functionaries – at sub-district, district, and state levels – will also be appointed by state governments.
इस जनगणना से मंत्रालयों को एक बटन दबाने पर ही मशीन-पठनीय और कार्रवाई योग्य प्रारूप में डेटा उपलब्ध हो जाएगा, जिससे नीतियां बनाना आसान हो जाएगा। 2027 की जनगणना के लिए राष्ट्रव्यापी जागरूकता, समावेशी भागीदारी, अंतिम छोर तक पहुंच और जमीनी स्तर पर संचालन के लिए समर्थन के लिए एक प्रचार अभियान चलाया जाएगा। अधिकतम प्रभाव सुनिश्चित करने के लिए लोगों से सटीक, प्रामाणिक और समय पर डेटा साझा करने का भी आग्रह किया जाएगा।
The census will also have significant employment-generation potential – around 1.02 crore worth of ‘man-days’, i.e., the number of people to be employed multiplied by the number of hours of work.This will also result in capacity-building as the job will teach digital data-handling, monitoring, and coordination skills that could help their job prospects.The 2027 census will be the sixteenth in the country (eighth after independence) and will represent the biggest source of primary data at village-, town-, and ward-levels.
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क्षेत्रीय संवाददाता:
President Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the year 2025 in New Delhi recently.
The Jai Vakeel Foundation and Research Centre from Mumbai was conferred the National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, 2025, as the Sarvshreshth Sansthan. The Disha Abhiyan of the Jai Vakeel Foundation developed in collaboration with NIEPID has evolved into a national model for multisensory learning and inclusive curriculum.
Our Mumbai correspondent Prarthna spoke to CEO of Jai Vakeel Foundation Archana Chandra to know more about the endeavors of the organization. Lets listen in…
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The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls—SIR—has entered its final phase in Kerala, with the deadline fast approaching. Here is a report from Kozhikode, Kerala.
December eighteenth is the last date for Submitting the enumeration forms. Draft electoral role will be published on 23rd December and the final list will be published on February 21 of 2026. As of yesterday, around two crore seventy-seven lakh enumeration forms have been digitised, accounting for 99.41 per cent of the total forms. At the same time, the number of uncollected forms stands at approximately twenty-four lakh sixty thousand. The SIR process has been progressing alongside the Local Self Government elections. Initially, the deadline for completion was fixed as December fourth. It was later extended to December twelfth, and finally to December eighteenth. The State Government had approached the Supreme Court seeking a further extension, but the verdict was not in favour of granting additional time. Election authorities say the remaining days are adequate to complete the revision process within the stipulated deadline. The high level of public participation and voter awareness in Kerala has been a major factor behind the smooth progress of the exercise. The participation of National Service Scheme volunteers and members of Electoral Literacy Club has also played a crucial role in supporting Booth Level Officers. In Kozhikode district, the district administration, in coordination with the University of Calicut, assigned two NSS volunteers to assist each BLO during weekends and holidays. The initiative, titled “A Day with BLO,” significantly helped field officials in achieving their targets. For Parikrama, Anil Chandran, Akashvani News Kozhikode.
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Andhra Pradesh’s Health and Family Welfare Department has launched a key initiative to boost natural deliveries in government hospitals.
For the first time, gynaecologists in the State-run facilities are undergoing training in ‘assisted vaginal delivery’ (AVD) techniques. The initiative began on December 10 and will run for six months in two phases across Guntur, Ongole, Vizag, Kakinada and Tirupati. State Health Commissioner G. Veerapandian said, a total of 370 gynaecologists from secondary and teaching hospitals will be trained. The programme, launched in collaboration with the Fernandez Foundation and UNICEF, aims to reduce the high rate of C-section deliveries in the state which is currently 42.4 percent, significantly above the WHO recommendation of 15 percent, by restoring doctors’ confidence and skills in AVD procedures. The Health Commissioner noted that although these methods are well-established, their use has declined in recent years due to rising caesarean delivery rates and lack of awareness. The aim of this training initiative is to equip doctors with safe practices and encourage alternative birthing positions. In addition, the state has introduced an 18-month professional midwifery course for selected staff, conducted with guidelines at government nursing colleges in Guntur, Tirupati, Srikakulam, Nellore, Kurnool and Kakinada. Currently, 172 nurses are undergoing training. The first batch of 60 nurses has reduced C-section deliveries by 9 percent and perineal cuts by 10 percent. For Parikrama, Henry, Akashvani, Vijayawada.
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Dehradun
The Indian Army has been strengthened with 491 new young officers today. A grand Passing Out Parade was held at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
The parade was held in front of the historic Chetwode Building at the Indian Military Academy, where a total of 525 Gentleman Cadets took the ‘Antim Pag’ to become commissioned officers of the Army. Among them were 34 cadets from friendly foreign countries, who will now join the armed forces of their respective nations after completing their training. The parade was reviewed by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, as the Reviewing Officer. On this occasion, the young cadets displayed exemplary discipline, dedication, and military pride. Set against the backdrop of rich military traditions and heritage, the ceremony was filled with a strong spirit of patriotism. For overall excellence during training, the prestigious Sword of Honour was awarded to Nishkal Dwivedi. Officer Cadet Nishkal Dwivedi also secured first position in the Order of Merit and received the Gold Medal. Badal Yadav stood second, while Kamaljeet Singh secured third place and was awarded the Bronze Medal. Sakshi Singh, Akashvani News, Dehradun.
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After Dehradun we are moving to Air Force academy, Dundigal –
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan today asserted that the Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of the 216th Course at Airforce Academy, Dundigal near Hyderabad this morning. A total 244 trainees including 8 from Indian Coast Guards, 6 from Indian Navy and 2 from Vietnam took part in the parade. The CDS conferred the President’s commission on the flight cadets who completed the training. He also presented the Wings and Brevets to the flight cadets and presented awards who excelled during the training. The Aerial displays by various air force teams have formed a major attraction of this ceremony. Addressing the passing out officials, General Anil Chauhan asserted that war and warfare is at the tip of a major revolution. The CDS said India’s strength rests on robust institutions, democratic stability, and unwavering professionalism of the Armed Forces. General Chouhan said the intensity of operations may have subsided, but Operation Sindoor continues. Stating that the new officers joining the Air Force at a moment when a new normal has firmly taken shape, General Chauhan said the era defined by a high degree of operational preparedness, round the clock and round the year and deep transformation is taking place in the Indian Armed Forces. He further said integrated structures, joint operations, and national pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence are shaping the future of India’s military strength. Lakshmi for Parikrama, Hyderabad.
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खेल
भारतीय कुश्ती स्टार विनेश फोगाट ने प्रतिस्पर्धी कुश्ती में वापसी की घोषणा की है और ओलंपिक खेलों में रिकॉर्ड चौथी बार भाग लेने का लक्ष्य रखा है। यह घोषणा उन्होंने गुरुवार को अपने आधिकारिक सोशल मीडिया अकाउंट के माध्यम से की। फोगाट ने पुष्टि की कि उन्होंने लॉस एंजिल्स 2028 ओलंपिक के लिए तैयारी शुरू कर दी है, जो उच्चतम स्तर पर इस खेल के प्रति उनकी नई प्रतिबद्धता का संकेत है। यदि वह क्वालीफाई करती हैं, तो वह चार ओलंपिक खेलों में प्रतिस्पर्धा करने वाली पहली भारतीय महिला पहलवान बन जाएंगी। कई बार राष्ट्रमंडल खेलों और एशियाई खेलों में स्वर्ण पदक जीतने वाली फोगाट पिछले एक दशक से भारत की सबसे प्रमुख पहलवानों में से एक रही हैं। इससे पहले वह रियो 2016, टोक्यो 2020 और पेरिस 2024 ओलंपिक में देश का प्रतिनिधित्व कर चुकी हैं और महिला कुश्ती में लगातार विश्व की शीर्ष खिलाड़ियों के बीच प्रतिस्पर्धा करती रही हैं।
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अब हम याद करेंगे महान स्वतंत्रता सेनानियों को और बात करेंगे उन महान व्यक्तियों की जिनकी आज है-पुण्यतिथि, जयंती या जन्मदिन।
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BIRTH/DEATH
Smita Patil, one of the most fascinating and tragic figure of the Indian cinema. She died in 1986, when giving birth to a child. She was only 31 year old. Patil was an icon of the ambitious Indian cinema and a true star of the Indian New Wave. Smita Patil, who was known for her unconventional portrayal of strong and independent women, appeared in over 80 films, in a career that spanned over a decade and was the recipient of two National Film Awards. In 1985, she received the Padma Shri. The late star made her film debut with Shyam Benegal’s ‘Charandas Chor.’ She gained attention for her breakthrough performance in Shyam Benegal’s “Manthan” (1976), which marked the beginning of her collaboration with the renowned filmmaker. Smita Patil went on to work in several of Benegal’s films, including “Bhumika” (1977), for which she received the National Film Award for Best Actress.
हालांकि स्मिता पाटिल केवल कला फिल्मों तक सीमित नहीं रहीं। उन्होंने व्यावसायिक सिनेमा में भी काम किया और वहां भी अपनी अलग पहचान बनाई। वे उस दौर में भी सशक्त महिला किरदार निभा रही थीं, जब फिल्मों में महिलाओं को सीमित भूमिकाओं में देखा जाता था। स्मिता पाटिल महिलाओं की भूमिका पर खुलकर बोलती थीं। आइए, प्रसार भारती के साक्षात्कार में उन्हें अपनी बेबाक राय साझा करते हुए सुनते हैं।
Her impactful performances in films such as “Aakrosh” (1980), “Chakra” (1981), and “Umbartha” (1982) solidified her position as one of the leading actresses in Indian cinema. Smita Patil was known for choosing roles that challenged societal norms and highlighted social issues. Her ability to infuse realism into her characters and convey emotions with authenticity set her apart.
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हिंदी साहित्य में एक नई विचारधारा की शुरुआत करने वाले इलाचन्द्र जोशी का आज जन्मदिन है। इलाचन्द्र जोशी हिंदी के मनोवैज्ञानिक उपन्यासों के आरम्भकर्ता माने जाते हैं। उन्होंने अपनी रचनाओं के माध्यम से मनुष्य के मन, भावनाओं और मानसिक संघर्षों को गहराई से प्रस्तुत किया। उनकी कहानियों और उपन्यासों में समाज और व्यक्ति के बीच के संबंध स्पष्ट रूप से दिखाई देते हैं। उन्होंने पात्रों की आंतरिक सोच को विशेष महत्व दिया। इलाचन्द्र जोशी का लेखन उस समय के हिंदी साहित्य से बिल्कुल अलग और प्रभावशाली था। हिंदी साहित्य को इलाचन्द्र जोशी ने एक नई दिशा और गहराई प्रदान की।
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Sharad Kumar Dixit was an Indian born American plastic surgeon and the founder of The India Project, a social initiative for free treatment of plastic surgery for the financially compromised people. The India Project was created in 1968 by Padmashree Dr. Sharad Kumar Dicksheet, an eight time Nobel Peace Prize nominated philanthropic plastic surgeon from NYC. Over his lifetime, Dr. Sharad Dicksheet performed nearly 100,000 cleft lip/palate surgeries and 100,000 eye surgeries and dermatologic procedures for the children and youth of India.
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आज हम याद कर रहे हैं प्रसिद्ध भारतीय फिल्म निर्माता – डी. वी. एस. राजू को, जिनका पूरा नाम दतला वेंकट सूर्यनारायण राजू था। तेलुगु सिनेमा के इतिहास में एक महत्वपूर्ण नाम माने जाने वाले डी. वी. एस. राजू ने कई सफल और यादगार तेलुगु फिल्में बनाई। मनोरंजन के साथ-साथ उनकी फिल्मों में सामाजिक और सांस्कृतिक विषयों को भी महत्व दिया गया। तेलुगु फिल्म इंडस्ट्री को नई पहचान दिलाने में उनकी भूमिका बेहद अहम रही। तेलुगु फिल्म उद्योग को मद्रास से हैदराबाद स्थानांतरित करने में डी. वी. एस. राजू की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका मानी जाती है।
As Chairman of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Raju was instrumental in co-funding the Academy Award-winning film Gandhi (1982).
One of Raju’s most significant achievements was his role in relocating the Telugu film industry from Madras to Hyderabad. His efforts, along with other industry stalwarts, were instrumental in establishing Hyderabad as the centre of Telugu cinema. He also founded the Film Nagar Cultural Centre (FNCC) in Hyderabad, which remains a key institution in the film community.
And if we talk about his honours –
⦁ Padma Shri (2001)
⦁ Raghupathi Venkaiah Award (1988)
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