HEADLINES:
- Government says domestic LPG supply across the country is smooth; No dry out at any distributor.
- पश्चिम बंगाल में विधानसभा चुनाव के दूसरे चरण के मतदान के लिए प्रचार ज़ोरों पर। विभिन्न पार्टियों के वरिष्ठ नेताओं का मतदाताओं को लुभाने का प्रयास।
- Supreme Court refuses to entertain plea against deletion of names from WB voter list in SIR; Terms it premature.
- भारत ने सार्क मुद्रा अदला-बदली ढांचे के तहत मालदीव के लिए 3 हजार करोड़ रुपये की पहली निकासी को मंजूरी दी।
- No court can compel woman, especially minor, to carry pregnancy against her will, says SC.
- मौसम विभाग ने राजस्थान, उत्तर प्रदेश, छत्तीसगढ़, मध्य प्रदेश और महाराष्ट्र के विदर्भ में लू चलने का अनुमान व्यक्त किया।
- In IPL Cricket, Royal Challengers Bengaluru to take on Gujarat Titans in Bengaluru this evening.
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Now, it’s time for our segment Dateline India, in which we take a look at the developments taking place at the national or global level. Today, we will talk about- National Panchayati Raj Day.
देश में आज राष्ट्रीय पंचायती राज दिवस मनाया जा रहा है। यह दिवस स्थानीय स्वशासन की औपचारिक संरचना के रूप में पंचायती राज व्यवस्था की स्थापना की स्मृति में मनाया जाता है। यह 1992 के 73वें संवैधानिक संशोधन अधिनियम के कार्यान्वयन का प्रतीक है, जो 1993 में लागू हुआ था।
Today, we’re diving into something that quietly shapes millions of lives across India-the Panchayati Raj system. Sounds formal, right? But it’s deeply connected to everyday life.
पंचायत व्यवस्था भारत की सबसे पुरानी लोकतांत्रिक परंपराओं में से एक है और लोकतंत्र का एक मजबूत स्तंभ है। पंचायतें ग्रामीण विकास, शासन-प्रशासन, सामाजिक न्याय, आपदा प्रबंधन से लेकर सांस्कृतिक संरक्षण में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाती हैं। पूरे देश में 2.5 लाख से ज़्यादा पंचायतें हैं, जिनमें 24 लाख से ज़्यादा चुने हुए प्रतिनिधि हैं। पंचायती राज जमीनी स्तर के लोकतंत्र और सहभागी शासन की भावना का प्रतीक है। पंचायते ये सुनिश्चित करती हैं कि ग्राम स्तर पर निर्णय लेने में जनता की आवाज सुनी जाए।
Here’s something really inspiring-almost half of these representatives, around 49.75 percent, are women. That’s a huge step toward inclusive governance.
जी महिलाएँ न सिर्फ़ हिस्सा ले रही हैं, बल्कि अपने समुदाय के लिए बड़े फैसले भी ले रहीं है। वास्तविकता में यही महिला सशक्तिकरण है।
Exactly! But let’s make this more relatable. Think about a village where the handpump breaks down. Earlier, people had to wait… and wait… for approval from distant offices.
कभी-कभी उन मंज़ूरियों में तो मानो सदियाँ लग जाती थीं! इस बीच, रोज़मर्रा की ज़िंदगी अस्त-व्यस्त हो जाती थी-न पानी मिलता, न ही कोई तुरंत समाधान।
But with the Panchayati Raj system, things have changed. Decisions are now made locally. The village leaders can step in and fix the issue much faster.
ड्रेनेज सिस्टम बनाने या स्कूल की क्लासरूम की मरम्मत करने के मामले में भी यही बात लागू होती है। ये सिर्फ़ “प्रोजेक्ट” नहीं हैं-ये सीधे तौर पर स्वास्थ्य, शिक्षा और गरिमा पर असर डालते हैं।
That’s the beauty of bringing governance closer to the people. It’s not just about policies-it’s about solving real problems, in real time.
इसके अलावा, यह लोगों को अपनी बात रखने का मौका देता है। जब समुदाय के भीतर फ़ैसले लिए जाते हैं, तो हर किसी को उनमें हिस्सा लेने, सवाल पूछने और योगदान देने का अवसर मिलता है।
So, in a way, Panchayati Raj isn’t just administration-it’s democracy you can actually see and feel. It empowers people socially and politically, making them active participants rather than passive observers.
यही है असली लोकतंत्र-बिल्कुल ज़मीनी स्तर पर। इस पर और जानकारी साझा कर रहें हैं हमारे संवाददाता —
“Panchayati Raj Institutions form the backbone of country’s grassroots democracy and have deep historical roots in village self-governance. The Power is transferred from central and state governments to elected representatives at the village level. With over 2.5 lakh Panchayats and over 24 lakh elected representatives, local governance has become more inclusive. In recent years, digital initiatives such as eGramSwaraj, Meri Panchayat, Panchayat NIRNAY, AuditOnline, SVAMITVA, and Gram Urja Swaraj have strengthened transparency, efficiency, and accountability in local administration. Over 95 per cent of villages now have 3G and 4G connectivity, strengthening last-mile service delivery. With Dipendra Kumar, Vishnu PS, Akashvani News Delhi.”
केंद्रीय पंचायती राज राज्य मंत्री एस.पी. सिंह बघेल ने कहा कि गांवों, किसानों, पंचायतों और व्यापक ग्रामीण परिवेश के समग्र विकास के बिना ‘विकसित भारत’ का सपना साकार नहीं हो सकता। उन्होंने आज ‘राष्ट्रीय पंचायती राज दिवस’ के अवसर पर सभा को संबोधित करते हुए ये बातें कहीं। मंत्री ने कहा कि राष्ट्रीय प्रगति के लिए जमीनी स्तर पर समावेशी विकास अत्यंत आवश्यक है।
He also noted that the government has undertaken substantial efforts to improve efficiency and governance delivery. The Minister noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the benefits of various government schemes are increasingly reaching the grassroots. Mr Baghel added that mechanisms such as Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) have ensured that assistance is delivered directly to beneficiaries, enhancing transparency and reducing leakages.
आइए विस्तार से समझते हैं कि पंचायती राज संस्थाओं का असल लक्ष्य क्या हासिल करना है।
Right-because it’s not just a system, it’s driven by some powerful goals. First up: people’s participation. Panchayati Raj ensures that villagers don’t just sit back-they actively take part in planning and implementing development programmes. So instead of decisions being made far away, people themselves decide what their village really needs.
और यह हमें दूसरे लक्ष्य की ओर ले जाता है-जवाबदेही। स्थानीय प्रतिनिधि सीधे तौर पर समुदाय के प्रति जवाबदेह होते हैं। इसका मतलब है कि बड़े-बड़े दफ़्तरों या लंबी-चौड़ी आदेश-श्रृंखलाओं के पीछे छिपने की कोई गुंजाइश नहीं रहती। अगर कुछ भी गलत होता है, तो लोगों को ठीक-ठीक पता होता है कि किससे सवाल करना है! यह बिल्कुल सच है। और जब नेता जवाबदेह होते हैं, तो सेवाओं में भी सुधार आता है।
That’s the third objective-better efficiency and responsiveness. Like quicker repairs, faster approvals, and solutions that actually match local needs.
पंचायतें सरकारी योजनाओं को बेहतर ढंग से लागू करने में मदद करती हैं। क्योंकि गाँव को वहाँ रहने वाले लोगों से बेहतर और कौन समझ सकता है? स्थानीय संस्थाएँ यह पक्का कर सकती हैं कि योजनाएँ सही लोगों तक, सही समय पर पहुँचें।
And finally, one of the most impactful goals-inclusive development. Panchayati Raj promotes representation of marginalized groups-women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes. It gives everyone a seat at the table, making development fairer and more balanced.
जब हम इसे करीब से देखते हैं, तो पता चलता है कि पंचायती राज सिर्फ़ शासन-प्रशासन के बारे में नहीं है-बल्कि यह भागीदारी, निष्पक्षता और सशक्तिकरण के बारे में है। यह एक ऐसा तंत्र है जहाँ हर आवाज़ मायने रखती है और हर समुदाय अपने भविष्य को खुद आकार देता है।
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Today is National Oral Medicine and Radiology Day. Celebrated annually on 24th April, it marks the establishment of the Indian Academy of Oral Medicine and Radiology in the year 1985. Our correspondent from Mumbai has filed this story related to some myths in dentistry and how one can prevent oral issues with daily care. Let’s listen in…
“It is said that “a happy mouth is a happy mind”, highlighting the strong connection between oral health and general wellbeing. But how does one maintain good oral health amid changing lifestyles, eating habits and the scores of dental products available in the market, luring consumers with white and shining teeth. To answer these questions, we spoke to Professor Dr Sunali Khanna, Head of Department, Dept of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Nair Hospital Dental College, Mumbai
Thus, maintaining good oral health results not just in happy smiles but also a healthy mind and body. So, follow the doctor’s advice and wear a smile because your smile is a reason for many others to smile. NISHA RANEY, FOR PARIKRAMA, FROM MUMBAI.”
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क्षेत्रीय संवाददाता
Chennai
In Tamil Nadu, the voting percentage was historic yesterday as both rural and urban turnout was huge. In Tirunelveli District, 77.94 percent of the voting was registered. Out of the five Assembly constituencies, three constituencies registered 80 percent. Tirunelveli had registered 78.21 percent. In the Western Ghats of the district live the Kaani tribe, who participated in this election. More from our Correspondent;
“The Kaani tribals living in the Western Ghats settlements of Tirunelveli had to walk as much as 20 km on foot to reach the Karaiyar polling station to cast their vote. After exercising their franchise, they had to walk back home. A total of 428 people from the Karaiyar, Chinna Mayilar, Periyar Mayilar, Injikuzi, and Agasthiyar Kudiyiruppu settlements are enrolled as voters at the polling station, which is located in the hills around 15 km from the Papanasam forest check post. Injikuzhi, where a total of 23 voters reside, they had to walk around 20 kms away from the polling station. A centenarian from Injikuzhi visited the polling station to cast his vote. For every voter, exercising the power of democracy is precious. This is so true in the case of the Kaani tribals in Tirunelveli. The festival of democracy makes the people walk the extra mile because they have the power to vote and be proud as citizens of the Country. JOY AKASHVANI NEWS CHENNAI.”
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LEH
तथागत भगवान बुद्ध के पवित्र अवशेष 29 अप्रैल 2026 को लद्दाख लाए जा रहे हैं। EK REPORT;
“श्रद्धालुओं के दर्शन के लिए इन्हें 2 मई से 15 मई 2026 तक रखा जाएगा। तथागत भगवान बुद्ध के पवित्र अवशेष 29 अप्रैल को लद्दाख लाए जा रहे हैं। भगवान बुद्ध के आशीर्वाद स्वरूप इन पवित्र अवशेषों का दर्शन मिलना लद्दाख और विशेषकर बुद्ध धर्म को मानने वाले लोगों के लिए अत्यंत खास और सौभाग्य की बात है। इसके लिए यूटी प्रशासन एवं अन्य समूहों के माध्यम से तैयारियां की जा रही हैं। इसी उपलक्ष्य में 21 अप्रैल से लद्दाख के माथो मठ में विशेष पूजा का आयोजन किया जा रहा है। पवित्र अवशेष 29 अप्रैल को लेह पहुंचने के बाद 1 मई को बुद्ध पूर्णिमा का विशेष आयोजन किया जाएगा। 2 मई से 15 मई तक आम लोग दर्शन कर पाएंगे। इस दौरान अलग-अलग जगहों पर कई कार्यक्रमों का भी आयोजन किया जा रहा है। इस संबंध में केंद्र शासित प्रदेश लद्दाख के सचिव *संजीत रोड्रिग्स* ने बताया:
तथागत भगवान बुद्ध के आशीर्वाद स्वरूप पवित्र अवशेषों के दर्शन के लिए लद्दाख के लोगों के साथ-साथ देश-विदेश से भी बड़ी संख्या में श्रद्धालुओं के लद्दाख पहुंचने की उम्मीद है। प्रशासन ने सभी व्यवस्थाएं सुनिश्चित की हैं ताकि हर श्रद्धालु सुगमता से दर्शन कर सके। For Parikrama this is Diskit Dolma from Leh Ladakh.”
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PANAJI
As the summer heat intensifies and water scarcity becomes a pressing concern, Goa is turning to its past for answers. Across the state, there is renewed focus on reviving the traditional Lake system-age-old water tanks that reflect the scientific knowledge of our ancestors. More from our correspondent;
“These structures, built centuries ago, were designed to harvest rainwater and recharge groundwater, ensuring year-round water availability. In Ponda, students are stepping beyond textbooks to study these systems during the ongoing “Pani Pandharwada or Water conservation fortnight” observed from April 16 to 30. Educators say such field learning for campaigns like ‘Catch the rain’ helps build true “water literacy,” going beyond awareness campaigns. One Such educator Subhash Jan told Akashvani that… The ‘Tali’ systems were carefully constructed, taking into account land slope, soil type, and rainfall patterns. By channeling runoff from surrounding hills into these reservoirs, they ensured clean water storage and sustained irrigation during dry months. Experts believe that reviving these traditional tanks is not just about preserving heritage, but a practical and scientific solution to today’s water challenges. As Goa faces increasing pressure on water resources, these time-tested systems could play a key role in securing a sustainable future for generations to come. For Parikrama Mahesh Chopade Panaji.”
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Goa takes a significant leap toward a cleaner, greener future today as a state-of-the-art waste treatment facility opens at Sonsodo. This new technology promises to transform how the region manages its resources. A report;
“South Goa celebrated a major milestone on Thursday with the inauguration of a new 10-tonne-per-day gasification-based waste treatment plant at Sonsodo. This innovative facility, developed by GD Environmental Private Limited, utilizes advanced technology to process municipal waste into clean energy, effectively reducing the burden on local landfills. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to a “Swayampurna” Goa, noting that over 1,000 crore rupees have been invested in modern infrastructure to keep the state pristine. The plant is designed to serve the constituencies of Margao, Fatorda, and Curtorim(कुडतरी), providing a sustainable, technology-driven solution to waste management. Sawant praised the move toward a circular economy and encouraged citizens to partner with local municipalities to maintain the state’s natural beauty. With real-time emission monitoring and high-tech processing, the Sonsodo plant stands as a bright symbol of Goa’s dedication to environmental health and sustainable progress. For Parikrama Mahesh Chopade Panaji.”
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JALANDHAR
Government of India’s Institute of Nano-Science and Technology (INST) in Mohali has developed a new material which can detect the level of nicotine and cotinine in human body by fluorometric sensing. Fluorometric sensing is a technique that measures various parameters using fluorescent emission. In the present case, the material, which acts as a sensor, ‘lights-up’ when it comes in contact with nicotine or cotinine. More from our Punjab correspondent:
“Your smoking will ‘light-up’ to reveal your nicotine level …. Yes that’s true. The sensor when placed on skin of a smoker, it starts glowing faster to make detection of nicotine and cotinine very easy and quick as compared to current methods used for the same. With the new technique, even small amounts can be identified quickly and accurately which is very important for healthcare and research. The material is an Iron-Based Metal-Organic Framework (Fe-MOF) which in simple terms, is a tiny structure made from iron and organic molecules. This structure is extremely small, thousands of times smaller than a human hair and have tiny pores that can trap and interact with other molecules. The INST Scientist, Monika Singh who has developed this new technology with her research student Arshminder Kaur told Akashvani that though this technique is still at in-vitro stage but has been found safe for use in biological systems. Experiments showed that it is biocompatible, meaning it does not harm living cells. Overall, this innovative material represents a promising step toward better health monitoring and a smoke-free society as millions of people lose their lives due to diseases caused by tobacco every year across the world. For Parikrama, this is Rajesh Bali from Jalandhar.”
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Thiruvananthapuram
In Keralam, the beautiful beach town of Kovalam is witnessing a different kind of summer learning experience is unfolding one that blends creativity, culture, and curiosity in equal measure. Let us listen more from our Thiruvananthapuram Correspondent;
“At the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, Kovalam near Thiruvananthapuram, the ‘Kalapila’ summer camp is offering children a lively mix of immersive sessions that go far beyond the usual holiday routine. Each day here is filled with activity,from puppetry and theatre workshops to pottery and music, and even the ancient martial art of Kalarippayattu. Guided by skilled artists and experts, these sessions give children a rare opportunity to learn directly from practitioners, making every experience both engaging and meaningful. One of the biggest attractions this year is the robotics workshop, where tradition meets technology in exciting ways. Children are discovering how modern tools can complement age old crafts, bridging the gap between heritage and innovation. The sessions are designed to spark both scientific curiosity and artistic thinking, showing young minds that creativity can thrive at the intersection of the old and the new. But beyond the activities, ‘Kalapila’ carries a deeper purpose. It encourages children to step away from excessive screen use and reconnect with their imagination. In a calm, village like setting, they are not only learning new skills but also building confidence and forming a closer connection with Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Let us listen the feedback from the participants_ As the camp continues, it stands out as a refreshing reminder that meaningful learning can happen when children create, explore, and experience the world with their own hands. Smithy M Palluruthy, Akashvani News, Thiruvananthapuram.”
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खेल
WUSHU
In a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir, young Wushu sensation Jiya Manhas has clinched Gold Medal at the prestigious Moscow Wushu Stars 2026 held in Russia. Jiya’s stellar performance on the international stage has brought immense pride to Jammu & Kashmir and the entire nation.
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IPL
आईपीएल क्रिकेट में आज रॉयल चैलेंजर्स बेंगलुरु का मुकाबला गुजरात टाइटन्स से होगा। यह मैच बेंगलुरु में शाम साढ़े सात बजे से शुरू होगा।
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Business News
Benchmark domestic equity indices declined over one per cent today, extending the losing streak for the third straight session. The Sensex plunged one thousand points to close at 76 thousand and 664, while the Nifty shed 275 points to settle at 23 thousand and 898.
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अब हम बात करेंगे उन महान व्यक्तियों की जिनकी आज है-पुण्यतिथि, जयंती या जन्मदिन।
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BIRTHS:
Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar
Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar was born on this day in 1973. He is an Indian former international cricketer who captained the Indian national team. Often dubbed the “God of Cricket” in India, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. He holds several world records, including being the all-time highest run-scorer in international cricket,[6] receiving the most player of the match awards in international cricket,[7] and being the only batsman to score 100 international centuries.] Tendulkar was a Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha by presidential nomination from 2012 to 2018.
महान् बल्लेबाज सचिन तेंदुलकर को 16 नवंबर 2013 को अंतरराष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट को अलविदा कहते ही भारत के सर्वोच्च नागरिक पुरस्कार भारत रत्न के लिए भी चुन लिया गया। वह इस प्रतिष्ठित सम्मान के लिए चुने जाने वाले पहले खिलाड़ी हैं।
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मैक मोहन (जयंती)
आज हिन्दी सिनेमा के प्रसिद्ध अभिनेता मैक मोहन की जयंती है। वह मुख्य रूप से खलनायक के किरदार निभाने के लिये जाने जाते थे। मैक मोहन प्रसिद्ध भारतीय अभिनेत्री रवीना टंडन के मामा थे। मैक मोहन का असली नाम ‘मोहन माखीजानी’ था। वह बचपन में अभिनेता नहीं बल्कि क्रिकेटर बनना चाहते थे। उन्होंने उत्तर प्रदेश की क्रिकेट टीम के लिए कई मैच भी खेले थे। फ़िल्म ‘शोले’ में निभाये गए ‘सांबा’ के किरदार ने मैक मोहन को घर-घर में पहचान दिला दी थी।
He was known for his villainous roles in films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He appeared in over 200 films, including Don, Karz, Satte Pe Satta, Zanjeer, Rafoo Chakkar, Shaan, Khoon Pasina, and Sholay.
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जामिनी रॉय (पुण्यतिथि)
Jamini Roy passed away on this day in 1972. He was an Indian painter. He was honoured by the Government of India the award of Padma Bhushan in 1954.[1] He remains one of the most famous pupils of Abanindranath Tagore, another praised Indian artist and instructor. Roy’s highly simplified, flattened-out style, and reminiscent of European modern art was influenced by the “bazaar” paintings sold at Indian temples as talismans.
जामिनी रॉय की रचनाएँ ‘वैन गॉ’, ‘रेम्ब्रां’ और ‘सेजां’ जैसे महान् यूरोपीय चित्रकारों की प्रतिलिपियों से लेकर उनकी स्व-निर्मित शैली तक का कलात्मक विकास है। उन्हें 1955 में ‘पद्म भूषण’ से सम्मानित किया गया।
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शिवप्रसाद गुप्त (पुण्यतिथि)
आज हिन्दी के समाचार पत्र ‘दैनिक आज’ के संस्थापक शिवप्रसाद गुप्त की पुण्यतिथि है। देश की स्वतंत्रता के लिए संघर्ष करने वाले क्रांतिकारियों को इनका समर्थन प्राप्त था। अपनी राष्ट्रवादी गतिविधियों के लिए भी शिवप्रसाद गुप्त ने कई बार जेल की सजा काटी। वे ‘काशी विद्यापीठ’ के संस्थापक थे। बनारस में ‘भारत माता मन्दिर’ का निर्माण भी इन्होंने करवाया था। हिन्दी में श्रेष्ठ साहित्य रचना को बल देने के लिए उन्होंने ‘ज्ञानमण्डल’ की स्थापना 1918 ई. में की। अंग्रेज़ी के ‘दैनिक टुडे’, ‘मर्यादा’, ‘स्वार्थ’ आदि पत्र पत्रिकाओं से जनमानस को उन्नत बनाने में उनकी अहम भूमिका रही।
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Deenanath Mangeshkar
Deenanath Mangeshkar passed away on this day in 1942. He was an actor, Natya Sangeet musician and, Hindustani classical vocalist who was active in Marathi theatre. He is the father of well-known singers Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Meena Khadikar and Usha Mangeshkar as well as composer Hridaynath Mangeshkar.
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शम्मी (जयंती)
आज फ़िल्म अभिनेत्री शम्मी की जयंती है। उनका मूल नाम नरगिस रबाड़ी था। उन्होंने दो सौ से अधिक हिंदी फ़िल्मों में अभिनय किया। 1950 के दशक में शम्मी ने ‘बाग़ी’, ‘आग का दरिया’, ‘मुन्ना’, ‘रुखसाना’, ‘पहली झलक’, ‘लगन’, ‘बंदिश’, ‘मुसाफ़िरखाना’, ‘आज़ाद’ और ‘दिल अपना और प्रीत परायी’ जैसी कई फ़िल्मों में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिकाएं निभायीं।
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M S K Prasad
M S K Prasad was born on this day in 1975. He is a retired Indian cricketer. He was most recently the chief selector of the Indian National Cricket Team and led the selection of the Indian team for the 2019 Cricket World Cup. He played six Test matches and 17 One Day Internationals in his professional career.
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