India's hill city of Dharamshala on Thursday, celebrated the 35th birthday of The Dalai Lama appointed Panchem Lama, with great fervor and joy.

Tibet celebrates Panchem Lama's birthday, urges his release

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Indian Fashion Designer, Ms. Leena Singh, as she delves into her journey of integrating sustainability into her brand and pioneering fashion sustainability at FEF India Fashion Awards X WION: Fashion For Good. Get ready to be inspired by her innovative approach, dedication to ethical practices, and commitment to making a positive impact on the fashion industry. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the power of conscious fashion and the path towards a more sustainable future!

FEF India Fashion Awards X WION: Fashion for Good | Fashion Sustainability

Step into the world of haute couture with renowned Fashion Designer Mr. Michael Cinco as he shares his journey towards sustainable fashion, his inspiration drawn from Indian art, and his profound perspective on "Fashion For Good" at the FEF India Fashion Awards X WION: Fashion For Good. Don't miss this captivating conversation with a true icon of style and conscience!

FEF India Fashion Awards X WION: Fashion for good | Transforming sustainable fashion

The political slugfest over the redistribution of wealth is escalating. Engaged in interpreting Article 39(b) of the constitution. A nine-judge bench examined whether privately-owned resources can be considered as 'material resources of the community'.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted severe heatwave conditions to continue over East and South Peninsular India for five days. Watch to know more.

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In an interactive session Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the business community of Islamabad. Business leaders urged him to initiate trade talks with India. Watch to know more!

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Indian heart gave a new lease on life to a Pakistani woman who underwent a transplant in Chennai. Furthermore, the surgeons and the hospital performed the procedure free of charge, proving how love and warmth have no borders.

Gravitas: Indian heart gives Pakistani woman new lease on life | Story of hope amid conflict

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for Maharashtra's Thane, Raigad districts and parts of Mumbai from April 27 to 29. The temperatures are likely to peak on April 27 and 28. Watch in for more details!

IMD forecasts intense heatwave conditions in many Indian states

The mother of a Kerala nurse who is on death row in Yemen has reached the country's capital Sana'a. 3 days after she began her journey from the southern Indian state of Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya's mother reached Sana'a to meet her daughter in prison.

Nurse Nimisha's mother reaches Yemen capital

As India’s elections continue, economists polled by Reuters have identified unemployment as a major economic challenge despite the country’s status as the world's fastest-growing economy. <o:p></o:p>

The consensus among economists indicates that while India is supposed to achieve a growth rate of 6.5 per cent this fiscal year, the failure to generate adequate employment opportunities remains a pressing issue, especially considering its increasing young population.<o:p></o:p>

According to the Reuters poll conducted from April 16 to 23, the majority of economists, 15 out of 26, noted unemployment as the primary challenge awaiting the government post-election. <o:p></o:p>

Kunal Kundu, an economist at Societe Generale, noted the decline in India's labour force participation rate (LFPR) over the past decade, attributing it to discouraged workers. <o:p></o:p>

He warned that without a comprehensive strategy to boost employment, India is at the risk of wasting its demographic advantage.<o:p></o:p>

Statistics have indicated a marginal improvement in the unemployment rate over recent years. <o:p></o:p>

Data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey reveals that the unemployment rate, which stood at 3.4 per cent in 2013-14, marginally decreased to 3.2 per cent by 2022-23. <o:p></o:p>

Nevertheless, the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy reports a contrasting figure, with the unemployment rate soaring to 7.6 per cent in March. <o:p></o:p>

Despite the grim picture regarding job creation, the government's increased capital expenditure contributed to an 8.4 per cent growth in the economy during the October-December quarter. <o:p></o:p>

Economists project a growth rate of 6.5 per cent for the last quarter and 7.6 per cent for the fiscal year ending on March 31.<o:p></o:p>

However, sustaining the growth witnessed in the previous year presents challenges. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, Alexandra Hermann of Oxford Economics warns against complacency, noting that last year's growth was largely propelled by government spending, which may not be sustainable due to fiscal constraints. <o:p></o:p>

While there are indications of the economy's strength pushing into 2024, the need for fiscal prudence could temper the pace of growth. <o:p></o:p>

Despite these concerns, institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have revised India's growth forecast upwards, signalling an optimistic outlook. <o:p></o:p>

The majority of economists surveyed anticipate economic growth to surpass expectations this fiscal year. <o:p></o:p>

Among discussions of economic performance, inflation remains a focal point. <o:p></o:p>

Consumer price inflation, standing at 4.85 per cent in March, is forecasted to average 4.5 per cent over the current and subsequent fiscal years. <o:p></o:p>

However, a major portion of economists, 19 out of 28, express concerns that inflationary pressures may exceed current projections. <o:p></o:p>

(Inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

As India’s elections continue, economists polled by Reuters have identified unemployment as a major economic challenge despite the country’s status as the world's fastest-growing economy.

As India’s elections continue, economists polled by Reuters have identified unemployment as a major economic challenge despite the country’s status as the world's fastest-growing economy. The consensus among economists indicates that while India is supposed to achieve a growth rate of 6.5 per cent this fiscal year, the failure to generate adequate employment opportunities remains a pressing issue, especially considering its increasing young population. According to the Reuters poll conducted from April 16 to 23, the majority of economists, 15 out of 26, noted unemployment as the primary challenge awaiting the government post-election. Kunal Kundu, an economist at Societe Generale, noted the decline in India's labour force participation rate (LFPR) over the past decade, attributing it to discouraged workers. He warned that without a comprehensive strategy to boost employment, India is at the risk of wasting its demographic advantage. Statistics have indicated a marginal improvement in the unemployment rate over recent years. Data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey reveals that the unemployment rate, which stood at 3.4 per cent in 2013-14, marginally decreased to 3.2 per cent by 2022-23. Nevertheless, the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy reports a contrasting figure, with the unemployment rate soaring to 7.6 per cent in March. Despite the grim picture regarding job creation, the government's increased capital expenditure contributed to an 8.4 per cent growth in the economy during the October-December quarter. Economists project a growth rate of 6.5 per cent for the last quarter and 7.6 per cent for the fiscal year ending on March 31. However, sustaining the growth witnessed in the previous year presents challenges. According to Reuters, Alexandra Hermann of Oxford Economics warns against complacency, noting that last year's growth was largely propelled by government spending, which may not be sustainable due to fiscal constraints. While there are indications of the economy's strength pushing into 2024, the need for fiscal prudence could temper the pace of growth. Despite these concerns, institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have revised India's growth forecast upwards, signalling an optimistic outlook. The majority of economists surveyed anticipate economic growth to surpass expectations this fiscal year. Among discussions of economic performance, inflation remains a focal point. Consumer price inflation, standing at 4.85 per cent in March, is forecasted to average 4.5 per cent over the current and subsequent fiscal years. However, a major portion of economists, 19 out of 28, express concerns that inflationary pressures may exceed current projections. (Inputs from Reuters)

Unemployment emerges as top concern in India despite economic growth: Reuters poll

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Wednesday slammed Sam Pitroda over his remarks on the redistribution of wealth where the Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress emphasised advocating an inheritance tax law in the country while Congress distanced itself from the comments. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024: Sam Pitroda's 'US-like inheritance tax' remark draws flak

India's Lok Sabha elections are here. Fervent voters are going to cast their vote. Indians began casting votes in their respective constituencies. However, some want to cast a vote but are residing far away from their registered constituency. In this case, few steps can be taken to cast a vote at your current address and city.

India elections 2024: How to cast vote if you live in a different city?

Singapore&nbsp;recalled the popular Indian spice brand Everest's Fish Curry Masala after the country's Food Agency (SFA) on Thursday (April 18) highlighted the presence of ethylene oxide at increased levels, which is unsuitable for human consumption.&nbsp;

The SFA stated that ethylene oxide is&nbsp;a pesticide which has not been authorised for its usage in food, even though it can be used in the sterilisation of spices.&nbsp;

"The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limits," said the Singapore Food Agency, in a&nbsp;statement.&nbsp;

The importer, Sp Muthiah &amp; Sons Pte. Ltd has been directed by the SFA to start a comprehensive recall of the products.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-allows-workers-to-request-4-day-weeks-and-more-work-from-home-711906">Singapore allows workers to request 4-day weeks and more work from home</a>&nbsp;

While responding to WION, the company said, "Everest is a 50+-year-old reputed brand and all our products go through stringent checks in the factory before despatch. We strictly follow the highest hygiene and food safety standards and norms laid down by the concerned authorities and statutory bodies like the Indian Spice Board, FSSAI and others."&nbsp;

"Before export, every shipment goes through quality inspection by the spice board of India.&nbsp;However, we are awaiting an official communication to understand the issue and our quality control team will look into the matter," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>SFA appeals consumers 'not to' consume Everest&nbsp;Masala&nbsp;</h2>

Ethylene oxide is generally used as a pesticide in the process of fumigating agricultural produce to reduce microbial contamination. However, its usage is strictly prohibited in food products.&nbsp;

"Under Singapore’s Food Regulations, ethylene oxide is allowed to be used in the sterilisation of spices," stated the SFA.

The food agency stated that there is no immediate risk involved in consuming food which contains low levels of ethylene oxide. However, it added that long-term exposure to such chemicals can lead to health issues.

"There is no immediate risk to consumption of food. Therefore, exposure to this substance should be minimised as much as possible," stated the SFA.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | What is Singapore's beef with Indian food?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-singapores-beef-with-indian-food-692873/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it. Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice. Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries," the agency further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Singapore recalled the popular Indian spice brand Everest's Fish Curry Masala after the country's Food Agency (SFA) on Thursday (April 18) highlighted the presence of ethylene oxide at increased levels, which is unsuitable for human consumption.

Singapore recalled the popular Indian spice brand Everest's Fish Curry Masala after the country's Food Agency (SFA) on Thursday (April 18) highlighted the presence of ethylene oxide at increased levels, which is unsuitable for human consumption. The SFA stated that ethylene oxide is a pesticide which has not been authorised for its usage in food, even though it can be used in the sterilisation of spices. "The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limits," said the Singapore Food Agency, in a statement. The importer, Sp Muthiah & Sons Pte. Ltd has been directed by the SFA to start a comprehensive recall of the products. Also Read: Singapore allows workers to request 4-day weeks and more work from home While responding to WION, the company said, "Everest is a 50+-year-old reputed brand and all our products go through stringent checks in the factory before despatch. We strictly follow the highest hygiene and food safety standards and norms laid down by the concerned authorities and statutory bodies like the Indian Spice Board, FSSAI and others." "Before export, every shipment goes through quality inspection by the spice board of India. However, we are awaiting an official communication to understand the issue and our quality control team will look into the matter," it added. SFA appeals consumers 'not to' consume Everest Masala Ethylene oxide is generally used as a pesticide in the process of fumigating agricultural produce to reduce microbial contamination. However, its usage is strictly prohibited in food products. "Under Singapore’s Food Regulations, ethylene oxide is allowed to be used in the sterilisation of spices," stated the SFA. The food agency stated that there is no immediate risk involved in consuming food which contains low levels of ethylene oxide. However, it added that long-term exposure to such chemicals can lead to health issues. "There is no immediate risk to consumption of food. Therefore, exposure to this substance should be minimised as much as possible," stated the SFA. Watch: Gravitas | What is Singapore's beef with Indian food? "Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it. Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice. Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries," the agency further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore recalls India's Everest Masala, claims it is 'unfit for human consumption'

Delhi Police briefly detained a hotel owner for allegedly serving biryani on disposable plates purportedly featuring a picture of Lord Ram, one of the most widely worshipped Hindu deities.&nbsp;

The incident reportedly happened Sunday afternoon in north Delhi's Jahangirpuri area after local Hindu organisations complained when they noticed Lord Ram's photo on the disposable plates that were kept at the biryani shop. They also questioned him and later called the police.&nbsp;

As reported by local media, a police officer disclosed that during the investigation it was revealed that the shopkeeper had purchased 1000 plates from a factory. The vendor reportedly said that the picture of Lord Ram was only on four plates.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Controversy erupts in Delhi as biryani served on plates with Lord Ram's picture. Police investigate. 
 
Read more on <a href="https://t.co/oRaP5ODMdH">https://t.co/oRaP5ODMdH</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Biryani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Biryani</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LordRam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LordRam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Controversy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Controversy</a> <a href="https://t.co/CXciD7kjbF">pic.twitter.com/CXciD7kjbF</a>
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As quoted in media reports, the officer added, "He informed us that he was unaware of the presence of Lord Ram's image on the plates, a statement corroborated by the factory owners."&nbsp;

"When a team reached the spot, a few persons were found protesting outside the shop. They were pacified after the assurance of a proper investigation into the matter," the officer added.&nbsp;

The police officer mentioned that the shopkeeper was detained under IPC sections 107/151 (preventive detention) and later released. The officer added that the plates with Lord Ram's image were also confiscated.&nbsp;

So far, no case has been registered, with a probe being underway.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Police briefly detained a hotel owner for allegedly serving biryani on disposable plates purportedly featuring a picture of Lord Ram, one of the most widely worshipped Hindu deities.

Delhi Police briefly detained a hotel owner for allegedly serving biryani on disposable plates purportedly featuring a picture of Lord Ram, one of the most widely worshipped Hindu deities. The incident reportedly happened Sunday afternoon in north Delhi's Jahangirpuri area after local Hindu organisations complained when they noticed Lord Ram's photo on the disposable plates that were kept at the biryani shop. They also questioned him and later called the police. As reported by local media, a police officer disclosed that during the investigation it was revealed that the shopkeeper had purchased 1000 plates from a factory. The vendor reportedly said that the picture of Lord Ram was only on four plates. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Controversy erupts in Delhi as biryani served on plates with Lord Ram's picture. Police investigate. Read more on https://t.co/oRaP5ODMdH#Delhi #Biryani #LordRam #Controversy pic.twitter.com/CXciD7kjbF — shorts91 (@shorts_91) April 23, 2024 × As quoted in media reports, the officer added, "He informed us that he was unaware of the presence of Lord Ram's image on the plates, a statement corroborated by the factory owners." "When a team reached the spot, a few persons were found protesting outside the shop. They were pacified after the assurance of a proper investigation into the matter," the officer added. The police officer mentioned that the shopkeeper was detained under IPC sections 107/151 (preventive detention) and later released. The officer added that the plates with Lord Ram's image were also confiscated. So far, no case has been registered, with a probe being underway. (With inputs from agencies)

Man detained for serving biryani on disposable plates featuring Lord Ram's image

Indian authorities have decided to take&nbsp;action against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-singapore-hong-kong-also-bans-sale-of-indias-everest-mdh-spices-due-to-pesticide-concerns-713820">popular Indian spice brands</a> which were recently banned by Hong Kong and Singapore over quality concerns, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (Apr 22) citing official sources.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that India's food safety regulator FSSAI will conduct quality checks on brands MDH and Everest Group after their sales were banned by the above-mentioned nations for allegedly containing a cancer-causing pesticide.&nbsp;

While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the official said that the inspections would test for the presence of ethylene oxide, which is a harmful pesticide unfit for human consumption. Experts have previously said that long-term exposure to ethylene oxide can cause cancer.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-awareness-campaign-held-in-asias-largest-tulip-garden-in-srinagar-713915">Election awareness campaign held in Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar</a>&nbsp;

Both MDH and Everest are extremely popular brands in India. They also export to various places, including the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

But both have landed in hot waters. On April 5, the Hong Kong regulatory decision was announced on the website of the country's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.&nbsp;

A few days after that, on April 18, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) asked for the recall of 'Everest Fish Curry Masala' due to the presence of the same pesticide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoor-booked-under-it-act-for-alleged-defamatory-remarks-against-bjps-rajeev-chandrasekhar-713809">Shashi Tharoor booked under IT Act for alleged defamatory remarks against BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar</a>&nbsp;

"The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limits," the food agency said in a statement.&nbsp;

While responding to WION, the company said, "Everest is a 50+-year-old reputed brand and all our products go through stringent checks in the factory before despatch. We strictly follow the highest hygiene and food safety standards and norms laid down by the concerned authorities and statutory bodies like the Indian Spice Board, FSSAI and others."&nbsp;

"Before export, every shipment goes through quality inspection by the spice board of India. However, we are awaiting an official communication to understand the issue and our quality control team will look into the matter," it added.&nbsp;

WION has reached out to MDH for a comment on the issue but no reply has been received so far.

This is not the first time, Everest has landed in a controversy since the US Food and Drug Administration recalled two of Everest's spice mixes after they tested positive for Salmonella in June 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian authorities have decided to take action against popular Indian spice brands which were recently banned by Hong Kong and Singapore over quality concerns, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (Apr 22) citing official sources.

Indian authorities have decided to take action against popular Indian spice brands which were recently banned by Hong Kong and Singapore over quality concerns, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (Apr 22) citing official sources. The report mentioned that India's food safety regulator FSSAI will conduct quality checks on brands MDH and Everest Group after their sales were banned by the above-mentioned nations for allegedly containing a cancer-causing pesticide. While speaking on the condition of anonymity, the official said that the inspections would test for the presence of ethylene oxide, which is a harmful pesticide unfit for human consumption. Experts have previously said that long-term exposure to ethylene oxide can cause cancer. Also read: Election awareness campaign held in Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar Both MDH and Everest are extremely popular brands in India. They also export to various places, including the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and the United Kingdom. But both have landed in hot waters. On April 5, the Hong Kong regulatory decision was announced on the website of the country's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. A few days after that, on April 18, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) asked for the recall of 'Everest Fish Curry Masala' due to the presence of the same pesticide. Also read: Shashi Tharoor booked under IT Act for alleged defamatory remarks against BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar "The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limits," the food agency said in a statement. While responding to WION, the company said, "Everest is a 50+-year-old reputed brand and all our products go through stringent checks in the factory before despatch. We strictly follow the highest hygiene and food safety standards and norms laid down by the concerned authorities and statutory bodies like the Indian Spice Board, FSSAI and others." "Before export, every shipment goes through quality inspection by the spice board of India. However, we are awaiting an official communication to understand the issue and our quality control team will look into the matter," it added. WION has reached out to MDH for a comment on the issue but no reply has been received so far. This is not the first time, Everest has landed in a controversy since the US Food and Drug Administration recalled two of Everest's spice mixes after they tested positive for Salmonella in June 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

India to conduct quality checks on MDH and Everest products for cancer-causing pesticide: Report

Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and presented the Padma Bhushan to renowned figures like singer Usha Uthup and Bharatnatyam dancer Dr Padma Subrahmanyam at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi&nbsp;on Monday (April 22).

The ceremony, presided over by President Murmu, also saw actor Mithun Chakraborty receiving the Padma Bhushan and the late Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak posthumously receiving the Padma Vibhushan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-health-delhi-cms-plea-seeking-medical-consultation-rejected-by-court-713911">Also read |&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal Health: Delhi CM's plea seeking medical consultation rejected by Court</a>

The Padma Awards, which include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are among India's highest civilian honours, acknowledging exceptional contributions in various fields. This year, 132 individuals were honoured, including Vyjayantimala Bali, Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi, and&nbsp;Padma Subrahmanyam, who received the Padma Vibhushan for their remarkable contributions to the arts.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Shri upon Bhajan-singer Shri Kaluram Bamaniya in the field of Arts. <a href="https://t.co/vIx06fD3rb">pic.twitter.com/vIx06fD3rb</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Bhushan upon Sitaram Jindal in the field of Trade &amp; Industry. <a href="https://t.co/uxz5W4qscy">pic.twitter.com/uxz5W4qscy</a>
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The Padma Vibhushan recipients include Vyjayantimala Bali for her excellence in dance and acting, S&nbsp;Konidela Chiranjeevi for his outstanding contributions to cinema, M Venkaiah Naidu for his impactful work in Public Affairs, the late Bindeshwar Pathak for his pioneering efforts in Social Work, and Padma Subrahmanyam for her exceptional contributions to dance and culture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-awareness-campaign-held-in-asias-largest-tulip-garden-in-srinagar-713915">Also read |&nbsp;Election awareness campaign held in Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar</a>

Diverse contributions were also recognised through the Padma Bhushan awards, honouring individuals like M Fathima Beevi, Hormusji N Cama,&nbsp;Mithun Chakraborty, Sitaram Jindal, Young Liu, Ashwin Balachand Mehta, the late Satyabrata Mookherjee, Ram Naik, Tejas Madhusudan Patel, Olanchery Rajagopal, Dattatray Ambadas Mayaloo, the late Togdan Rinpoche, Pyarelal Sharma, Chandreshwar Prasad Thakur, Usha Uthup, the late Vijaykanth, and Kundan Vyas, among others.

<h2>Significance of Padma Awards</h2>

The Padma Awards ceremony recognises and celebrates exceptional people&nbsp;in various fields for their stellar achievements and contributions.&nbsp;Each year, no more than 120 Padma awards are given out. Recipients receive a medal and certificate signed by the President of India. The awards ceremony happens in March-April at the Rashtrapati Bhawan situated in New Delhi, India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and presented the Padma Bhushan to renowned figures like singer Usha Uthup and Bharatnatyam dancer Dr Padma Subrahmanyam at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi on Monday (April 22).

Indian President Droupadi Murmu awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and presented the Padma Bhushan to renowned figures like singer Usha Uthup and Bharatnatyam dancer Dr Padma Subrahmanyam at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi on Monday (April 22). The ceremony, presided over by President Murmu, also saw actor Mithun Chakraborty receiving the Padma Bhushan and the late Sulabh International founder Bindeshwar Pathak posthumously receiving the Padma Vibhushan. Also read | Arvind Kejriwal Health: Delhi CM's plea seeking medical consultation rejected by Court The Padma Awards, which include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are among India's highest civilian honours, acknowledging exceptional contributions in various fields. This year, 132 individuals were honoured, including Vyjayantimala Bali, Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi, and Padma Subrahmanyam, who received the Padma Vibhushan for their remarkable contributions to the arts. #WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Shri upon Bhajan-singer Shri Kaluram Bamaniya in the field of Arts. pic.twitter.com/vIx06fD3rb — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024 × #WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Bhushan upon Sitaram Jindal in the field of Trade & Industry. pic.twitter.com/uxz5W4qscy — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024 × The Padma Vibhushan recipients include Vyjayantimala Bali for her excellence in dance and acting, S Konidela Chiranjeevi for his outstanding contributions to cinema, M Venkaiah Naidu for his impactful work in Public Affairs, the late Bindeshwar Pathak for his pioneering efforts in Social Work, and Padma Subrahmanyam for her exceptional contributions to dance and culture. Also read | Election awareness campaign held in Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar Diverse contributions were also recognised through the Padma Bhushan awards, honouring individuals like M Fathima Beevi, Hormusji N Cama, Mithun Chakraborty, Sitaram Jindal, Young Liu, Ashwin Balachand Mehta, the late Satyabrata Mookherjee, Ram Naik, Tejas Madhusudan Patel, Olanchery Rajagopal, Dattatray Ambadas Mayaloo, the late Togdan Rinpoche, Pyarelal Sharma, Chandreshwar Prasad Thakur, Usha Uthup, the late Vijaykanth, and Kundan Vyas, among others. Significance of Padma Awards The Padma Awards ceremony recognises and celebrates exceptional people in various fields for their stellar achievements and contributions. Each year, no more than 120 Padma awards are given out. Recipients receive a medal and certificate signed by the President of India. The awards ceremony happens in March-April at the Rashtrapati Bhawan situated in New Delhi, India. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-VP Venkaiah Naidu, Bindeshwar Pathak conferred Padma Vibhushan; here's the full list

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The Indian Air Force tested the ROCKS missile, capable of striking targets over 250 kilometres&nbsp;away, marking a major capability enhancement.

Conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the successful test showed the air-launched ballistic missile's potential, originating from Israel as the Crystal Maze 2.

According to senior sources in the national security establishment speaking to ANI, a Su-30 MKI fighter jet successfully test-fired the missile last week at a testing site within the Andaman Islands' territory.

Preparations for the test were conducted within the jurisdiction of the tri-services Andaman and Nicobar Command, currently overseen by an Air Force officer.

The Indian Air Force intends to procure Israeli missiles on a large scale through the Make in India initiative due to its unique capabilities.

Launched from a Su-30 fighter, the missile ascends before swiftly homing in on its target. The Crystal Maze 2 differs significantly from its predecessor, Crystal Maze 1, previously inducted into the Indian Air Force from Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-nation-one-airspace-indias-mission-ishan-to-benefit-airlines-and-passengers-both-714250">Also read |&nbsp;‘One nation, one airspace’: India’s project ISHAN to streamline air traffic, benefit airlines and passengers</a>

<h2>What is Crystal Maze 2?</h2>

Crystal Maze 2, an extended stand-off range air-to-surface missile, is earmarked for targeting high-value stationary and relocatable objectives such as long-range radars and enemy air defence systems.

Its effectiveness in GPS-denied environments, reminiscent of India's challenges during the Kargil War, is highlighted.&nbsp;It's effective even against targets protected by air defence systems.

Also watch |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Expectations of the first-time voters

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-elections-2024-expectations-of-the-first-time-voters-714310/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The successful test firing is a big step for India's defence. By making Crystal Maze 2 missiles in India, they're moving towards self-reliance and modernising their defence, reducing dependence on imports.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Air Force tested the ROCKS missile, capable of striking targets over 250 kilometres away, marking a major capability enhancement. Conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the successful test showed the air-launched ballistic missile's potential, originating from Israel as the Crystal Maze 2.

The Indian Air Force tested the ROCKS missile, capable of striking targets over 250 kilometres away, marking a major capability enhancement. Conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the successful test showed the air-launched ballistic missile's potential, originating from Israel as the Crystal Maze 2. According to senior sources in the national security establishment speaking to ANI, a Su-30 MKI fighter jet successfully test-fired the missile last week at a testing site within the Andaman Islands' territory. Preparations for the test were conducted within the jurisdiction of the tri-services Andaman and Nicobar Command, currently overseen by an Air Force officer. The Indian Air Force intends to procure Israeli missiles on a large scale through the Make in India initiative due to its unique capabilities. Launched from a Su-30 fighter, the missile ascends before swiftly homing in on its target. The Crystal Maze 2 differs significantly from its predecessor, Crystal Maze 1, previously inducted into the Indian Air Force from Israel. Also read | ‘One nation, one airspace’: India’s project ISHAN to streamline air traffic, benefit airlines and passengers What is Crystal Maze 2? Crystal Maze 2, an extended stand-off range air-to-surface missile, is earmarked for targeting high-value stationary and relocatable objectives such as long-range radars and enemy air defence systems. Its effectiveness in GPS-denied environments, reminiscent of India's challenges during the Kargil War, is highlighted. It's effective even against targets protected by air defence systems. Also watch | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Expectations of the first-time voters The successful test firing is a big step for India's defence. By making Crystal Maze 2 missiles in India, they're moving towards self-reliance and modernising their defence, reducing dependence on imports. (With inputs from agencies)

India successfully tests Crystal Maze-2 missile capable of striking targets up to 250 kilometres away

India's air defence capabilities are under scrutiny after Israel's interception of Iranian missiles. The country is enhancing its arsenal with new systems. Watch in for more details!

India has a robust air defence network to thwart threats

A speech by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come under the scanner, for allegedly inciting hate. Several opposition parties have cried foul over the speech, targeted at Muslims, while urging the Election Commission to take action.

India Elections: Opposition raises alarm over PM Modi's 'hate' speech in Rajasthan

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