In a tweet, President Kovind said, "Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Holi. Holi, the festival of colours, is a living example of community harmony and reconciliation. It brings good news of the arrival of spring. I wish that this festival infuses joy, enthusiasm and new energy in the lives of all the countrymen."
होली के पावन अवसर पर सभी देशवासियों को हार्दिक बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं।
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 18, 2022
रंगों का पर्व होली, सामुदायिक सद्भाव और मेल-मिलाप का जीवंत उदाहरण है। यह वसंत ऋतु के आगमन का शुभ समाचार लेकर आता है।
मेरी कामना है कि यह त्योहार सभी देशवासियों के जीवन में आनंद, उमंग और नई ऊर्जा का संचार करे।
Wishing the citizens on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "Happy Holi to all of you. A symbol of mutual love, affection and brotherhood, may this festival bring every color of happiness in the life of all of you."
आप सभी को होली की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। आपसी प्रेम, स्नेह और भाईचारे का प्रतीक यह रंगोत्सव आप सभी के जीवन में खुशियों का हर रंग लेकर आए।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 18, 2022
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also took to Twitter to extend greeting to people on the occasion Dola Purnima. He wrote, "My greetings and best wishes to the people of the State on the occasion of Dola Purnima. May blessings of Lord Dolagobinda fill the lives of all with happiness and prosperity."
ପବିତ୍ର ଦୋଳ ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣିମା ଅବସରରେ ରାଜ୍ୟବାସୀଙ୍କୁ ମୋର ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା ଓ ଶୁଭକାମନା। ପ୍ରଭୁ ଦୋଳଗୋବିନ୍ଦଙ୍କ ଅପାର କୃପା ଓ ଆଶୀର୍ବାଦ ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ଜୀବନରେ ସୁଖ, ସମୃଦ୍ଧି ଭରିଦେଉ। pic.twitter.com/bJ8giBWXEu
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) March 18, 2022
BJP National vice-president Baijayant Panda in his tweet said, "Heartiest greetings and best wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Dola Purnima. May the abundant grace and blessings of Lord Sri Radha Krishna be upon all. I pray to God for the happiness, peace, progress and good health of all."
ପବିତ୍ର ଦୋଳ ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣିମାର ଶୁଭ ଅବସରରେ ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କୁ ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା ଓ ଅଭିନନ୍ଦନ। ଭଗବାନ ଶ୍ରୀ ରାଧାକୃଷ୍ଣଙ୍କ ଅପାର କୃପା ଓ ଆଶୀର୍ବାଦ ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ଉପରେ ରହିଥାଉ। ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ସୁଖ, ଶାନ୍ତି, ପ୍ରଗତି ଓ ଉତ୍ତମ ସ୍ବାସ୍ଥ୍ୟ ପାଇଁ ଭଗବାନଙ୍କ ନିକଟରେ ମୋର ପ୍ରାର୍ଥନା ।
— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) March 18, 2022
ଜୟ ଶ୍ରୀ ରାଧେକୃଷ୍ଣ 🙏🙏#DolaPurnima#ଦୋଳପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣିମା pic.twitter.com/7pF1JKHaRF
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also greeted people on the occasion.
ପବିତ୍ର ଦୋଳ ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣିମା ଉପଲକ୍ଷେ ଶୁଭକାମନା । pic.twitter.com/uZWELNvHG3
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) March 18, 2022
According to the government sources, Modi updated him about the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals from the war-torn country under the recently launched 'Operation Ganga'.
He also updated him that over 1,600 Indian students have been evacuated from Ukraine till this morning as the seventh Air India Express flight landed in Mumbai with 182 Indians, mostly students, who departed from Budapest (Hungary) at midnight Monday.
Modi further updated him that he had directed the Ministry of External Affairs officials to make proper arrangements for the students who will be coming to Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Romania till they depart for India.
Detailing the initiatives, the Prime Minister also apprised the President that four senior Cabinet Ministers are departing to the neighbouring countries Poland, Hungary Slovakia and Romania as his 'Special Envoy' to oversee the evacuation mission and with the visit of four senior ministers to various nations will energise the evacuation efforts, the sources said.
He also updated Kovind that India will extend help to people from the neighbouring countries and developing countries who are stranded in Ukraine under India's motto of the world being one family.
The first consignment of relief supplies to Ukraine to deal with the humanitarian situation on Ukraine's borders would be dispatched Tuesday, the Prime Minister informed the President.
Prime Minister Modi is personally monitoring the situation and he has already chaired three high-level meetings till Monday evening.
The Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is leaving for Romania and Moldova, Kiren Rijiju to Slovakia, Hardeep Singh Puri to Hungary and Gen VK Singh (Retd) will be going to Poland to oversee the evacuation of Indian nationals.
Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik welcomed President Kovind on his arrival at the Biju Patnaik International Airport. Kovind will leave for Puri in a special helicopter.
As per the schedule, President Kovind will visit the Puri Jagannath Temple in the evening. During the VVIP’s visit, no devotees will be allowed inside the shrine. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had also released a SOP in this connection.
Kovind is scheduled to visit the Sri Chaitanya Goudia Mutt to offer tributes to Srimad Bhaktisiddhant Goswamy Prabhupad tomorrow. He will also inaugurate the three-year-long celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of the founder of the Goudiya mission.
A thick blanket of security is in place for President Kovind’s visit to Puri. Around 40 platoons of police force have been deployed for the security arrangements in the pilgrim town for the two-day visit of the President.
Special traffic arrangements have been made and the focus will be on ensuring that there is minimum inconvenience to the devotees and other residents during the President’s visit.
Notably, this will be the President’s third visit to Puri. Last time, he along with his wife Savita Kovind, had paid a visit to the holy town in March 2021.
This will be the President’s third visit to Puri. Last time, he along with his wife Savita Kovind had paid a visit to Odisha in March 2021. The President is scheduled to reach Puri in the afternoon.
A team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel had earlier conducted a mock helicopter drill at the helipad in Puri yesterday.
As per the schedule, President Kovind will visit the Puri Jagannath Temple in the evening. During the VVIP’s visit, no devotees will be allowed inside the shrine. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had also released SOP in this connection.
The general darshan of the deities by the devotees will be restricted for two hours from 4 pm to 6 pm. Puri Superintendent of Police, Kanwar Vishal Singh today said that a spot briefing of the police personnel has been done.
“All the security arrangements have been done as per the protocols. Special forces will also be deployed on the route and venues where the President will visit.”
Special traffic arrangements have been made and the focus will be on ensuring that there is minimum inconvenience to the devotees and other residents during the President’s visit.
Noted sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on Saturday sculpted a sand art on Puri beach to welcome the President.
Welcome the first citizen of India to Shree #Jagannath Dham, #Puri through this sandart. @rashtrapatibhvn pic.twitter.com/Q85oKnrNix
— Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) February 19, 2022
On February 20 (tomorrow), the President is scheduled to visit the Sri Chaitanya Goudia Mutt to offer tributes to Srimad Bhaktisiddhant Goswamy Prabhupad. He will inaugurate the three-year-long celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of the founder of Goudiya mission.
Those who presented their credentials were Anisa K. Mbega, the High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania; Isse Abdillahi Assoweh, Ambassador of the Republic of Djibouti; Sinisa Pavic, Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia, and Slobodan Uzunov, the Ambassador of the Republic of North Macedonia, a communique from the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.
Following the presentation of credentials, the President interacted with the four envoys separately. He congratulated them on their appointments and highlighted the warm and friendly relations that India shared with the countries and the multifaceted relationship that India enjoyed with each of them.
The President also wished them success in strengthening bilateral ties and for their well-being and progress and prosperity of the friendly people, the communique said.
Through the High Commissioner and the Ambassadors, the President also conveyed his personal regards to their leaderships. Envoys present at the event reiterated their commitment to work closely to strengthen their ties with India.
The appointments of the new judges will be effective from the date they assume charge of their respective offices, said a notification issued by the Ministry of Law & Justice Department of Justice (Appointments Division) today.
"In exercise of the power conferred by clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint S/Shri (1) V. Narasingh, (2) Biraja Prasanna Satapathy and (3) Murahari Sri Raman, to be Judges of the Orissa High Court, in that order of seniority, with effect from the date they assume charge of their respective offices," the notification read.
The President today appointed a total of 17 judges in High Courts of Madhya Pradesh, Madras, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. While Andhra Pradesh High Court got seven judges, Madhya Pradesh High Court got six judges. Similarly, three judges have been appointed to the Orissa High Court. Moreover, Madras HC acting Chief Justice Munishwar Nath Bhandari has been made the Chief Justice.
The Cabinet is scheduled to meet at 10.10 a.m. to give the ascent to the Budget Document. And all eyes are on the Finance Minister as to what she is going to give relief to the public and keep the growth engine going at the sametime.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the economic survey, which said that India's economy is expected to grow at 8-8.5 per cent in the next fiscal.
According to the Survey 2021-22, the building back of the economic momentum along with enhanced vaccination drive as well as the likely long-term benefits of supply-side reforms in the pipeline, the Indian economy is in a good position to witness GDP "growth of 8.0-8.5 per cent in 2022-23".
"Growth in 2022-23 will be supported by widespread vaccine coverage, gains from supply-side reforms and easing of regulations, robust export growth, and availability of fiscal space to ramp up capital spending.
"The year ahead is also well poised for a pick-up in private sector investment with the financial system in a good position to provide support to the revival of the economy.
Addressing the joint sitting of both houses of Parliament at the beginning of the Budget Session, Kovind also said that a peace accord has been signed with insurgent groups in Assam's Karbi Anglong district to end decades long conflict, and a new chapter of peace and prosperity has been ushered.
"Due to concerted efforts of my government, the number of naxal-affected districts in the country has also come down from 126 to 70 today," he said.
On September 21, 2020, the then Union minister of state for home G Kishan Reddy had informed Rajya Sabha that a total of 90 districts in 11 states in the country are considered naxal or left-wing extremism (LWE) affected, and are covered under the Security Related Expenditure scheme of the home ministry.
Reddy had also said that LWE-related violent incidents were reported in 61 districts in 2019 and in only 46 districts in the first half of 2020.
According to home ministry data, between 2004-2020, 8,380 people were killed by the Maoists in different parts of India.
The majority of civilians killed were tribals. They were often branded as 'police informers' before being brutally tortured and killed.
The tribal and the economically underprivileged sections, whose cause the Maoists claim to espouse, have been the biggest victims of the so-called 'protracted peoples war' of the naxals, the home ministry has said.
Referring to the insurgency in the Northeast, the president said the efforts of the Modi government to establish peace in the region have attained "historic success".
"Just a few months ago, a settlement was reached between the central government, the state of Assam and the Karbi groups to end the decades-old conflict in Karbi Anglong. This has ushered in a new chapter of peace and prosperity in the region," he said.
Addressing the joint session of Parliament, Kovind said that since 2016, India has seen 60,000 startups in 56 different sectors.
"Our startup industry is also an example of the infinite new possibilities that are rapidly taking shape under the leadership of our youth. Since 2016, 60,000 new startups have been established in 56 different sectors in our country," he emphasised.
"More than six lakh jobs have been created by these startups. In 2021, during the Corona period, more than 40 unicorn startups emerged in India, each with a minimum market valuation of Rs 7,400 crore ($1 billion)," said the President.
A Nasscom-Zinnov report said this month that Indian startups raised a record $24.1 billion in 2021, a two-fold increase over pre-Covid levels, while $6 billion were raised via public markets with 11 startup IPOs.
The Indian tech startup base continues to witness steady growth, adding over 2250 startups in 2021, which is 600 more than 2020.
India, accounting for 70 unicorns, added a record number of new unicorns (42) in 2021 across 18 sectors, third highest after the US and China, with a cumulative valuation of newly-added unicorns standing around $90 billion, according to the report.
Kovind also said that because of the government policies, the cost of internet connectivity and price of smartphones in India today are among the cheapest in the world.
"This has hugely benefited our young generation. India is also working with great pace on 5G mobile connectivity, which will open doors to new opportunities," he added.
"India's efforts on semiconductors will significantly benefit our start-up ecosystem. The government has taken many policy decisions and opened up several new sectors so that our youth can benefit from rapidly changing technology," the President noted.
Through the 'Startups Intellectual Property Protection Programme', he informed, the government has simplified and accelerated the processes related to patents and trademarks.
"As a result, nearly 6 thousand patents and more than 20 thousand trademarks have been applied for in this financial year," said Kovind.
"Women participation in the development of the rural economy is increasing. In the year 2021-22, 28 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) were given financial support of Rs 65,000 crore by the banks," the President said while addressing both the houses of Parliament on the first day of the Budget session.
He said this figure is four times higher than that of 2014-15 financial year.
Kovind further informed that the Centre has trained thousands of such groups and helped them participate as 'Banking Sakhi'.
"These women are connecting banking services in rural areas to each and every household there," he said.
Highlighting the schemes introduced by the Centre to help women, the President said that the success of Ujjwala Yojna has been witnessed by all and with the help of schemes like Mudra Yojna, more than 15 crore people have been benefited and around 4 crore people have started their own business.
Kovind also mentioned the 'Beti Bachao, Beti padhao' campaign, adding that it yielded positive results as the number of girls taking admission in schools has increased significantly.
To ensure equality between genders, the Centre has proposed to increase the marriageable age of women from 18 to 21, he said.
He said that by brining in a law against Triple Talaq, the Centre has abolished a social evil prevalent in Muslim society, "and Muslim women will no longer need to be accompanied by a blood-relative (Mehram) to go for Haj pilgrimage," he added.
In his address to the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament at the start of the Budget Session, Kovind said the Rs 64,000 crore PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission will prepare the country for a health crisis in the future.
We have administered 150 crore doses of COVID-19 vaccines in a record time, he said.
The President said more than 70 per cent beneficiaries of the vaccination drive have been administered the second dose.
Flagging other achievements of the central government, he said over six crore rural households are getting tap water under 'Har Ghar Jal initiative'.
Kovind said India's agriculture exports have also crossed Rs three lakh crore.
He said despite the pandemic, country's farmers produced 30 crore tonnes of food grains and 33 crore horticulture produce in 2020-21.
The President said more than 11 crore farmer families received Rs 1.80 lakh crore through PM-KISAN and big changes have been seen in the farm sector.
He said the Government procured more than 433 lakh metric tonnes of wheat, which benefited more than 50 lakh farmers.
The session begins ahead of the crucial assembly elections in five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur.
The President, along with other officials, paid floral tributes to the leader at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
He also visited Sardar Patel Chowk in the national capital to pay homage at the statue of the freedom fighter.
President Ram Nath Kovind paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary at Rashtrapati Bhavan. pic.twitter.com/UUk6V1OEa3
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 31, 2021
Venkaiah Naidu remembered called him as a "colossal figure" in the freedom struggle, a messiah for peasants, a sagacious statesman, organiser par excellence and epitome of wisdom.
"I bow my head in respect to the leader I admire the most, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on his birth anniversary today. He was a colossal figure in our freedom struggle, a messiah for peasants, a sagacious statesman, organizer par excellence and epitome of wisdom," he said.
The Vice President pointed out that Sardar Patel played a remarkable role in galvanising the nation against British rule, accomplished the humongous task of peaceful integration of over 560 princely states and laid the foundation of strong administration in the country by establishing the civil services.
"Today as we celebrate National Unity Day to honour' the legacy of Sardar Patel, let us take inspiration from this iconic personality and work towards strengthening the unity, integrity and security of the nation and eliminating hunger, inequality, poverty and corruption," Naidu added.
I bow my head in respect to the leader I admire the most, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on his birth anniversary today. He was a colossal figure in our freedom struggle, a messiah for peasants, a sagacious statesman, organizer par excellence & epitome of wisdom. #SardarPatel pic.twitter.com/3b4aOsXslB
— Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) October 31, 2021
In his message, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a hero who united the country in the thread of unity, will always be remembered for his role in India's independent and decisive leadership. He has also contributed a lot in building a new India. I bow to him on the occasion of his birth anniversary."
Brigadier Saraswati hails from Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh and was commissioned into the MNS on December 28, 1983. She has served in the MNS for more than three and half decades, especially in perioperative nursing.
As a renowned operation theatre nurse, she has assisted in more than 3,000 lifesaving and emergency surgeries and has trained residents, operation room nursing trainees and auxiliary staff in her career. She has prepared patient teaching materials and improvised drape kits and suture packing for cardiac surgeries.
Brigadier Saraswati has represented the MNS in various national and international forums. She has conducted various outreach activities for the troops and has trained more than thousand soldiers and families in basic life support. She has rendered her services at various pan-India army hospitals and United Nations Peace Keeping Forces at Congo. She has held various levels of clinical and administrative appointments prior to assuming the present prestigious appointment of Deputy Director General of MNS.
In recognition of her meritorious and distinguished service in nursing profession to the soldiers and their families, she was awarded General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Commendation (2005), United Nations Medal (MONOC) (2007) and Chief of the Army Staff Commendation (2015).
(PIB)
It is pertinent to mention here that Mamata Dalai (then 6) had saved her elder sister from the jaws of a crocodile on April 6, 2017.
Mamta and her sister Asanti had gone to a nearby pond in Dangamala village under Rajnagar block in Kendrapara to take bath when a crocodile pounced upon the latter.
Without fearing for her life, Mamata pulled her sister from the crocodile’s jaws.
Mamata received the National Bravery award from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was also felicitated by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for her courage.
Moreover, the Kendrapara district administration on Friday handed over a cheque of Rs 1 lakh from the Rashtrapati Bhawan to Mamata.
Also Read: Sex dens on rise in Odisha; 5 girls, 7 youths nabbed from Sambalpur
“Today, a cheque of Rs 1 lakh has been handed over to Mamata. The kid’s bravery is certainly an inspiration for all,” said Basant Behera, Additional District Magistrate, Kendrapara.
Reportedly, three servitors were accused of not maintaining distance and dashing against First lady and wife of President Ram Nath Kovind, Savita Kovind during her last visit to the 12th century shrine at Puri in March this year.
Clarifying on the matter, SJTA chief administrator Pradipta Mohapatra said, "The SJTA has received no communique from the Rashtrapati Bhawan regarding misbehaviour to the First Lady in Srimandir. So there is no need for further discussion on this matter."
Chief Secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi too avoided speaking on the subject any further. “As the SJTA chief administrator has already clarified on the issue, there is no need to have any further discussion on this,” he said.
On the other hand, Puri SP Sarthak Sarangi said, "Before President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to the temple on March 18, the Rashtrapati Bhawan had shot a letter to the Collector in which it was clearly mentioned that he will not sign on any writings and also directed to implement adequate security measures. The servitors were also notified regarding this. However, a few of them still breached the inner cordon and tried to meet the President. Later, we had submitted a report on this matter to the SJTA.”
As per reports that surfaced in media, the Administrative Committee Meeting of Puri Srimandir held on March 20 discussed on the severe lapses and misbehaviour shown towards the President and the First Lady and the objection raised by Rashtrapati Bhawan.
However, with the SJTA and Chief Secretary both stating that no communiqué was received, the temple managing committee has now questioned on what basis the matter was discussed and mentioned in the meeting report.
Meanwhile, Suara Mahasuara Nijog president Damodara Mahasuara has lodged a police complaint against Puri Collector Arvind Agarwal and former SJTA chief Pradeep Jena alleging that the administration is intentionally trying to defame the servitors.
Mahasuara alleged, “They were trying to offend us before the whole nation and fully prepared to take action against us. We have lodged a written complaint against the former temple administrator and district collector.”
Binayak Dasmohapatra, Assistant Secretary of Daitapati Servitors’ Union said, “This is an effort to defame the President of India and to defame all the servitors. Instead of poking into all such things, they should concentrate to conduct the Rath Yatra smoothly.”
Though Raj Bhavan which was constructed in 1913-14 is a heritage site, it is in a precarious condition which is why the circuit house has been chosen as the place for President Kovind’s night stay during his visit to Puri.
“As Raj Bhavan has been declared unsafe we are making proper arrangements at the Special Circuit House for president’s stay”, said PWD executive engineer Niroj Kumar Dash.
“The renovation and construction work of Raj Bhavan is underway,” he added.
President Kovind will reach Puri on March 17 and is scheduled visit Srimandir on March 18 at 7.30 AM to have darshan of the three deities.
President Kovind is also scheduled to attend the centenary celebration of Rastriya Sanskruta Sansthan in Puri on March 18.
“Ahead of the visit elaborate security arrangements will be made and special attention will also be given to the cleanliness in the area. During his visit darshan of deities by the general public will be barred between 6:30 - 8:30 AM,” said Puri Collector Arvind Agarwal.
Ahead of the President's visit Police Commissioner YB Khurania and Cuttack DCP Akhilesvar Singh took stock of the security arrangements at Anand Bhawan.
"The President is coming on a 2-day visit and the inauguration of Anand Bhawan in Cuttack is one of his major engagements. So, I arrived here to check the security arrangements," said Khurania.
Anand Bhawan is the ancestral house of legendary leader and former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik. His children, including current CM Naveen Patnaik donated it to the district administration of Cuttack in 2015 to convert it into a museum.
The museum and learning centre will house various personal belongings of Biju Patnaik including his childhood photographs and other materials narrating his role in the freedom struggle of India and Indonesia.
After normalcy returned to House on the third day of the winter session, the ruling party was able to move a motion on the MSP issue and targeted the Central Government along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Business Advisory Committee of the Odisha Assembly gave a green signal to the discussion on MSP after government chief whip Amar Satpathy presented a House Committee report relating to paddy MSP.
BJD MLAs targeted the Centre during a marathon discussion and alleged that the Prime Minister has insulted the farmers by not giving appointment for a meeting with the House Committee. The ruling party tabled a proposal that the House Committee should meet the President over the issue, instead of the Prime Minister.
The Congress seeking discussion on farmers’ plight also targeted both the Centre and the State governments over the MSP issue.
Leader of Opposition (LoP) Narasingha Mishra alleged that Odisha is not on the priority list of Prime Minister. The State Government is also not fulfilling its responsibility, he added.
Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati said, "The Prime Minister has insulted Odisha. As he did not give appointment to the House Committee we will meet the President.”
The BJP will not be a part of the Committee to meet the president.
BJP legislature party leader K V Singhdeo made it clear that the party will not support any proposal against the Prime Minister. The BJP alleged the BJD of not fulfilling its poll promises.
BJP State President Basant Panda even said, "If the government had concerns about the farmers then there would have been no instances of suicides.”
As per government reports, the production cost of paddy is Rs 2,344 per quintal. The Odisha government is demanding a hike in MSP to Rs 2,930 per quintal.
https://youtu.be/FgfsU1H2rMY
Bhubaneswar: Hard work pays and it was again proved right in case of Braja Bhushan Mohanty, the first Odia coach to win the prestigious ‘Dronacharya’ award.
Mohanty received the award from President Ram Nath Kovind at a special function held at New Delhi on Tuesday.
In an exclusive interview to OTV, Mohanty shared his dream to train young boxers from Odisha and prepare them for the 2020 Olympics.
“I am happy to get the recognition. If my service is regularised in boxing, I want to train boxers from Odisha so that they win medals in 2020 Olympics and bring laurels for the country,” said Mohanty. Though Mohanty had approached the Odisha Government, nothing has moved in his favour so far.
Mohanty, who hails from Berhampur, has been a disciplined man throughout his 25-year-long career as a coach. Under his guidance, several boxers have brought laurels for the country in several Asian Games, Asian Championships and National Games.
Under his guidance, boxers like Shiva Thapa, Dingko Singh, Gurucharan Singh and Vikas Krishan Yadav have clinched medals in several major events.
Mohanty was instrumental in spotting the talent in L Devendra Singh who also received Arjuna award today.
Hailing OTV for being the first channel to have spoken to him over getting the prestigious award, Mohanty said, “A coach needs to be meticulous in imparting the basics to the boxers. The job of coach is to identify talent and nurture them so that they excel in the game.”
Following his retirement from defence service in 2013, he was appointed as the chief coach of Jharkhand boxing team.
Throughout his career, he has worked for development of boxing in India. He was the coach of Indian boxing team from 2002 till 2011.
Taking to twitter, the President extended Rath Yatra wishes to every Indian especially people of Odisha. He also sought blessings of the almighty divinity for healthy life during the time of the pandemic.
भगवान जगन्नाथ की रथ यात्रा के शुभ अवसर पर सभी देशवासियों, विशेष रूप से ओडिशा में सभी श्रद्धालुओं को मेरी हार्दिक बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं। मैं कामना करता हूँ कि प्रभु जगन्नाथ के आशीर्वाद से सभी देशवासियों का जीवन सुख, समृद्धि और स्वास्थ्य से परिपूर्ण बना रहे।
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 12, 2021
PM Modi also prayed Lord Jagannath for his divine blessings which can bring good health for everyone.
Greetings to everyone on the special occasion of the Rath Yatra. We bow to Lord Jagannath and pray that his blessings bring good health and prosperity in everyone’s lives. Jai Jagannath!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 12, 2021
Governor of Andhra Pradesh Biswa Bhusan Harichandan also greeted people and prayed to Lord Of the Universe to shower blessings on everyone.
On the auspicious occasion of #RathYatra2021 Hon’ble Governor Sri Biswa Bhusan Harichandan extends greetings to the people & prays to Lord #Jagannath to bless everyone with sound health and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/K4bJFGogGd
— Governor of Andhra Pradesh (@governorap) July 12, 2021
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, while wishing the citizens of the State, shared a message through a video clip. In his tweet, Patnaik stated “May the State be covid-free with the blessings of Lord Jagannath.”
ମହାପ୍ରଭୁ ଶ୍ରୀ ଜଗନ୍ନାଥଙ୍କ ପବିତ୍ର ରଥଯାତ୍ରା ଉପଲକ୍ଷେ ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଅଭିନନ୍ଦନ ଓ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା। ଚତୁର୍ଦ୍ଧାମୂର୍ତ୍ତିଙ୍କ ଅପାର କରୁଣାରୁ କୋଭିଡ ସଙ୍କଟ ଶୀଘ୍ର ଦୂର ହେଉ। ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ସୁଖ, ସମୃଦ୍ଧି ଓ ମଙ୍ଗଳମୟ ଜୀବନ ପାଇଁ ମହାପ୍ରଭୁଙ୍କ ନିକଟରେ ପ୍ରାର୍ଥନା କରୁଛି। #ରଥଯାତ୍ରା୨୦୨୧ pic.twitter.com/lbFMULZz7k
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) July 12, 2021
Patnaik had earlier appealed to the people of Odisha to celebrate the mega festival in strict adherence to Covid protocols, there by setting an example of a disciplined and sacred life before the world.
Similarly, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also wished good health to the people of India.
ପବିତ୍ର ରଥଯାତ୍ରାର ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଅଭିନନ୍ଦନ । ମହାପ୍ରଭୁ ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ମଙ୍ଗଳ କରନ୍ତୁ ।
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) July 12, 2021
ଜୟ ଜଗନ୍ନାଥ 🙏
पवित्र रथ यात्रा के पावन पुनीत अवसर पर समस्त देशवासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं।
महाप्रभु की यह यात्रा सभी के जीवन में सुख, शांति, स्वास्थ्य और खुशहाली लेकर आए।
जय जगन्नाथ 🙏#RathaJatra pic.twitter.com/XeGF65nPtC
BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda while praying for everyone’s happiness on the auspicious occasion, appealed to the people to watch the divine journey of the Holy Trinity on TV and online mode due to restriction on public participation.
Greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of the original, authentic, biggest #RathaJatra in Puri, Odisha. Because of #COVID restrictions, devotees can't pull the rath, but watch it on TV/online May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless everyone with good health, happiness & prosperity🙏 pic.twitter.com/hM90g6eOW6
— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) July 12, 2021
"On Martyrs' Day, we gratefully remember Mahatma Gandhi and the countless freedom fighters who sacrificed their all for our Independence," the President tweeted.
Modi said: "We reiterate our commitment to follow the path shown by him and abide by the values he stood for.
"We salute all the martyrs who laid down their lives for India. The country remains eternally grateful to them for their service and sacrifice."
Sharing a quote by the Father of the Nation, Rahul Gandhi paid tributes to the leader of the Indian independence movement, who was assassinated on this day.
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its weak and vulnerable members are treated," Gandhi tweeted.
Besides, Chief Ministers of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee also paid homage to Gandhi.
"Let us not forget the fact that it is the hatred bred by the fundamentalist ideology of Sangh that took away Bapu. Let us also not forget the fact that it is the same ideology that is staring at us with its ugliest face yet, now," Kejriwal tweeted.
According to an official announcement, the upper house will have 20 sittings during the session.
The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, chaired by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, had met earlier this month and decided the dates of parliament's winter session.
The session commences on the day election results for Assembly polls to five states - Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram - will be out.
The Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha may be adjourned for the day after offering condolences to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who died during the intersession period.
"On his birth anniversary, tributes to Maulana Azad, freedom fighter, scholar and India's first Education Minister. In his honour, we celebrate November 11 as National Education Day," the President tweeted.
Besides Azad, the Prime Minister also paid tributes to Acharya J.B. Kripalani on his birth anniversary.
"Remembering Acharya J.B. Kripalani and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad on their birth anniversaries. Two exemplary personalities, their notable role during the freedom struggle and emphasis on public welfare, equality, education and justice will never be forgotten."
"Wishing all fellow citizens a happy and prosperous Diwali. May the festival of lights illuminate every home and every family, in our country and across our shared planet," the President said in a tweet.
Naidu in a series of tweets said that Diwali signifies the victory of good over evil.
"I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights. Diwali signifies the victory of good over evil and reaffirms our faith in the noble qualities that Lord Ram embodied.
"Also associated with Goddess Lakshmi - the harbinger of wealth, grace and prosperity - Diwali is celebrated not only in India but all over the world by the people of Indian origin. May this festival bring illumination, peace, prosperity and happiness in our lives," Naidu said.
The Prime Minister also took to Twitter and said: "Happy Diwali! May this festival bring happiness, good health and prosperity in everyone's lives. May the power of good and brightness always prevail."
Diwali is one of the biggest festivals of India which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness across the country.
Union Minister Harsh Vardhan and Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party chief and MP Manoj Tiwari also shared the statge.
Popularly known as 'Ravan Dahan', the ritual is celebrated across India as a symbol of victory of good over evil. Prime Ministers traditionally attend the ritual at the iconic Ramlila Maidan.
Beside Ravan, effigies of his son Meghnad and brother Kumbhkarn are also set alight, watched by thousands of people.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to those who served the nation during Operation Vijay.
President Kovind said every Indian acknowledges the efforts and gallantry of India's armed forces.
"We salute the ultimate sacrifice of the martyrs of Kargil, and record our everlasting debt to their families," he tweeted.
Modi also tweeted: "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation pays homage to all those who served the nation during Operation Vijay. Our brave soldiers ensured that India remains protected and gave a befitting answer to those who tried to vitiate the atmosphere of peace."
Hailing former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he said, "India will always remember with pride, the outstanding political leadership provided by Atal ji during Operation Vijay. He led from the front, supported our armed forces and clearly articulated India's stand at the world stage."
Home Minister Rajnath Singh added: "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we salute the unflinching courage and supreme sacrifice of all those soldiers who fought valiantly in 1999. Every Indian citizen is proud of their heroism and service to the nation."
Plastic pollution is also the theme of the World Environment day, being hosted by India on Tuesday.
"On the World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. India is hosting the global celebrations this year. And we are obligated to bequeathing a greener and eco-friendly legacy to our children," Kovind said in a tweet.
https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1003814759769280512
Modi also took to Twitter to greet the people. "Together, let us ensure that our future generations live in a clean and green planet, in harmony with nature," he said in a tweet.
https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1003828194896560128
The Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu pushed for the plastic ban, saying: "Let us take a pledge to 'Beat Plastic Pollution', the theme of the World Environment Day today. Time has come for every individual to join the campaign to end single-use plastic and protect the environment."
Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar urged people to vow not to use low-grade plastic.
"Fifteen thousand tonnes of plastic waste is generated every day, 9,000 tonnes is collected and recycled, but 6,000 tonnes of plastic waste is not collected and remain littered," Javadekar said.
https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1003832039550824448
Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad emphasised on raising awareness for "a cleaner and greener environment that can lead us to sustainable development".
https://twitter.com/rsprasad/status/1003842549474193409
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also urged people to pledge to "beat plastic pollution".
https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1003808365334560769
The Congress also took to Twitter, pledging to protect and preserve the Environment, saying, "the Earth doesn't belong to us but, we belong to the Earth".
https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1003849475671015424
According to the survey conducted by LocalCircles, 18 per cent voted for life imprisonment without parole for convicted rapists while three per cent said it should be a seven-year jail term (which is the current law).
To catch the citizens' pulse on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, LocalCircles conducted six nation-wide polls which received more than 40,000 votes.
In the second poll, 89 per cent agreed that they want their states to pass a law that awards death penalty within six months. Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh have also passed a law that awards death penalty for child rape.
In another poll, which was about engaging more women officers to register cases of sexual assault, it was found that 78 per cent citizens were in support of every district level police station to have at least one woman officer.
For the fourth poll, on maximum time taken by the police to file a charge sheet in cases of child rape, only 28 per cent said it should be done within 30 days, while 25 per cent said 45 days.
In the fifth poll, it was found that 65 per cent want POCSO judges to only handle cases which are related to child sexual abuse.
The final poll on the maximum time taken for justice in cases of child rape under POCSO act, 85 per cent citizens said it should be within six months.
The Union Cabinet had on Saturday cleared an ordinance that seeks to amend the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act by including stringent provisions in cases of rape of children and minors.
The President also approved an ordinance to confiscate properties of fugitive economic offenders.
On Saturday, the Union Cabinet had also cleared another ordinance that would provide for attachment and confiscation of the properties of the economic offenders in a bid to bring back the defaulters of huge bank loans who escape to abroad.
"In a country as vast as India, problems of farmers in different regions are different. We will have to find solutions according to their needs," he said while inaugurating the international conferences 'Agricon 2018' and 'Agriexpo 2018' at Chandrashekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology (CSAUT) here.
The President emphasised the need to see grain production, dairy farming, animal husbandry and fisheries, poultry, horticulture and sericulture as part of a composite approach to modern agriculture. There is also need to encourage the food processing industry to give farmers a better price and a better deal for their produce, he added.
"Water is a common concern. In this regard, the Government has promoted the concept of 'per drop, more crop' and this message should reach every farmer in the country," he said.
The President said when farm-based product is exported from the country, the name of India is associated with it and hence there can be "no compromise with quality".
"For demand for such products to be sustainable, quality has to be maintained and people have to have faith in it being of international standard," he said.
He went to say that the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" has become more relevant in current times as while the army is battling terrorists and safeguarding the borders, the farmers are working hard to ensure food security for all.
"The government is fully committed to empowering both our Armed Forces and our farmers," he said.
Later in the day, the President, delivering the Barrister Narendrajit Singh Memorial Lecture at VSSD College, said the poor pay heavily for delay in justice and thus there should be constant efforts for judicial reforms. He said many High Courts are taking effective steps to deal speedily with long-pending cases.
Inaugurating the 4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference on "State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma Traditions" in Rajgir of Nalanda district in Bihar, the President said the meet reflected India's friendship with ASEAN countries, "which share our rich spiritual heritage and age-old knowledge of the Indian sub-continent and south-eastern Asian countries".
"This conference is being held at a time when we are celebrating 25 years of ASEAN-India dialogue partnership. This year on the Republic Day, representatives of all the 10 countries of ASEAN will be our honourable guests."
He said the Nalanda University was itself an example of result of close cooperation between India and ASEANA countries.
Nalanda University Vice Chancellor Sunaina Singh said the varsity, in collaboration with the Centre for Study of Religion and Society, India Foundation, Ministry of External Affairs and the Vietnam Buddhist University, was organising the event.
The three-day conference started on Thursday (January 11) at Rajgir International Convention Centre, Rajgir -- about 100km from here.
The event was part of a series of commemorative events to celebrate the Silver Jubilee year of ASEAN-India Dialogue Partnership, with active support from the Ministry of External Affairs, Singh added.
Besides President Kovind, Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Assignments Tilak Marapana and Kingdom of Thailand's Minister for Culture Vira Rojpojchanarat, among others, are attending the conference.
The overall theme of the Conference -- State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma Tradition -- aims to facilitate cross-pollination of ideas and foster harmony at the global level and also seeks to explore the shared values of the dharmic traditions that could provide the guiding light to the world and a sense of inter-connectedness.
As one of the defining principles of the human civilization, Dharma-Dhamma provided the structure upon which a broad array of human existence and cosmic life was built across the globe.
The notion of Dharma-Dhamma, in its manifold manifestations, including truth and non-violence, peace and harmony, humaneness and spiritual linkages and universal fraternity and peaceful co-existence, served as a moral compass that guided people in the Indian sub-continent through ages and continues to shape and sustain the Indian cultural ethos.
This decision has been taken to ensure more backward among the OBC communities to avail the benefits of reservation, added the statement from the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry.
"The President in exercise of the powers conferred by article 340 of the Constitution appointed a Commission to examine the sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes.
"This decision, taken on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, reinforces, in the spirit of his teachings, the government's efforts to achieve greater social justice and inclusion for all, and specifically members of the Other Backward Classes," it added.
The Commission will have as its members J. K. Bajaj, the Director of Centre for Policy Studies, and the Director, Anthropological Survey of India and the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, while Joint Secretary in the Ministry will be its Secretary.
It will examine the extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation among the castes or communities included in the broad category of OBCs with reference to such classes included in the Central List.
It wil also work out the mechanism, criteria, norms and parameters in a scientific approach for sub-categorisation within such OBCs and will take up the exercise of identifying the respective castes or communities or sub-castes or synonyms in the Central List of OBCs and classifying them into their respective sub-categories.
The Commission has been asked to submit its report to the President within a period of twelve weeks of assumption of charge by the chairperson.
On receipt of the report, the Central government will consider ways and means for equitable distribution of the benefits of the reservation in Central government jobs and admission in Central government institutions amongst all strata of OBCs.
Read More: UGC NET, IBPS RRB scale I exams on Nov 5; students upset over clash of dates
The inauguration of the airport, developed by Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC), also marks the start of the year-long centenary celebrations of Shri Saibaba Samadhi for which over 11 million pilgrims are expected from around the world.
The small town in western Maharashtra is a world-famous pilgrim spot for the 'samadhi' temple of a 20th century saint, known as Saibaba, who is revered by all communities.
Permitted initially for daytime operations by the DGCA, the new airport will slash the travel time between Mumbai and Shirdi, around 240 km apart, from six hours to barely 45 minutes.
Present at the inauguration were Maharashtra Governor C.V. Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Leader of Opposition Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, MADC Vice-Chairman and MD Suresh Kakani, other top central and state officials.
"The President has been pleased to appoint Admiral (Retd.) Devendra Kumar Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM, as the LG of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in place of Jagdish Mukhi with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office," the President's office said in an official statement.
The statement also said that the President has approved the appointment of Brigadier (Retd.) B.D. Mishra as the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Satya Pal Malik as the Governor of Bihar, Banwarilal Purohit as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, Jagdish Mukhi as the Governor of Assam and Ganga Prasad as the Governor of Meghalaya.
"Construction of toilets is more important than temples," he said while launching 'Swachhta hi Seva' campaign from Ishwariganj village in Kanpur district, adding that the cleanliness mission had brought a new awakening among the people.
"Today, our country is fighting a decisive battle against uncleanliness. We have two years to achieve the targets of Swachh Bharat Mission. The 'Swachhta hi Seva' campaign is a nationwide attempt to strengthen this mission," an official statement quoted Kovind as saying.
He said keeping the surroundings clean was not only the job of sanitation personnel and government departments by people as well.
"Cleaning is not only the responsibility of sanitation workers. Even Mahatma Gandhi tried to teach this point 100 years ago while he himself engaged in cleaning. He had said that till the time you will not pick up broom and bucket in your hands, you will not be able to clean your village and city," he said.
The President said insanitation was a curse for society and that illnesses caused by it cost as much as 6.4 per cent of India's Gross Domestic Product.
"According to the Swachh Bharat Mission, number of those who defecated in the open has come down from 55 crore to 30 crore," Kovind said.
The Uttar Pradesh government will observe 'Seva Diwas' (day of service) on September 17 and carry out a range of activities, including building cess-pit toilets, voluntary work, and sanitation drives.
Kovind's observation came as he gave away the Rajbhasha Awards on the occasion of Hindi Diwas at a function here. He also launched the "Lila" mobile app in the presence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Ministers of State Hansraj Gagaram Ahir and Kiran Rijiju.
"Hindi speakers will have to take the initiative to make non-Hindi speakers adopt Hindi with enthusiasm. If they (Hindi speakers) will learn their languages, then non-Hindi speakers too will be interested in learning Hindi," Kovind said.
The President observed: "The moment a Hindi speaker greets a non-Hindi speaker with 'Vanakkam', 'Sat Sri Akal' or 'Adaab', he establishes a connect at the linguistic and emotional levels."
He said Hindi has the capacity to adopt from other Indian and foreign languages and dialect and this aspect should be taken full advantage of to popularise Hindi language.
"New and technical words can be adopted in Hindi without translation. For example, words like 'railway station', 'register' were absorbed into Hindi years ago. Similarly, more new terms should be adopted in Hindi as their literal translation in Hindi would make the language less attractive," Kovind said.
He said as per estimates, by 2021, Indians would be using the Internet in Hindi more than in English. "So digital literacy will further expand Hindi's reach."
Kovind said according to experts, Hindi was also an ideal language for computer programming as Devanagri script was very scientific.
"People are increasingly learning Hindi abroad. It is being taught in around 175 universities across the world. Languages always unite. My greetings on Hindi Diwas," the President said.
"Violence and damage to public property after court verdict is highly condemnable; appeal to all citizens to maintain peace," the President tweeted.
His remarks came after 30 people were killed in violence in Haryana after a CBI court in Panchkula convicted Baba Ram Rahim in a rape case.
Private and government property was vandalised in Haryana, Punjab and Delhi by Dera supporters.
To be presided over by Chief Justice of India Justice Dipak Misra, the function will be attended by Governor S C Jamir, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan as guests of honor, according to official sources.
Established in 2008, the first Foundation Day lecture here was delivered by Nobel peace prize winner Kailash Sathyarthi in 2015 and the second lecture was delivered by Justice D K Jain in 2016.
During his visit to the city, Kovind will visit Netaji Birthplace Museum at Odia Bazaar, and head for Anand Bhawan, the house of legendary freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, which has been converted into a museum and learning centre.
The President will also address a select audience at the nearby Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
The President is also scheduled to visit the temple town of Puri the following day.
A notification issued by the law ministry quoted the president as saying that in the light of the opinion expressed by the Election Commission (EC), the 20 members of the Delhi legislative assembly have been disqualified.
The AAP MLAs were appointed parliamentary secretaries and their appointment was described as them holding offices of profit by a petitioner.
In a blow to the AAP, the EC had on Friday asked the President to disqualify its 20 MLAs.
"...Having considered the matter in the light of the opinion expressed by the Election Commission, I, Ram Nath Kovind, president of India, in exercise of the powers...do here hold that the aforesaid 20 members of the Delhi legislative assembly stand disqualified from being members of the said assembly," the notification said.
All the 20 AAP MLAs had moved the Delhi High Court challenging the EC's recommendation but Justice Rekha Palli had refused to pass any interim order.
The President is in Kanpur on a four-day visit during which he is meeting the members of his family and friends. Kovind, who boarded a train to reach Kanpur, visited his native village Paraunkh in Kanpur Dehat.
On Sunday, the President reached his village in a chopper and bowed down to touch the soil of his village as a mark of respect.
A cloth merchant, Agarwal has not been keeping well for the past few weeks so the President decided to pay his old friend a visit at his home. He also took with him a cake to celebrate 51st wedding anniversary of Agarwal and his wife Veena.
The President stayed at Agarwal's house for more than one hour.
Later, talking to the media, Agarwal said he is elated that the President paid him a visit. He said it reminded him of Lord Krishna visiting the house of his poor friend Sudama. The gesture of the President to carry a cake to celebrate his wedding anniversary made the occasion special.
The families of Agarwal and President Kovind have been friends for a very long time. The businessman from Kanpur visited the President House in Delhi when Kovind took oath of the highest office in the country.
This is Kovind's first visit to his native village in Kanpur after becoming the President in 2017.
A statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan said the President decided to undertake a train journey to his native village 'in line with the tradition of his predecessors'.
Before Kovind, former President A.P.J. Abdul Kamal travelled on a special train from Delhi to Dehradun to attend the parade of the cadets of the Indian Military Academy (IMA).
He would first visit Djibouti on October 3 and would leave for Ethiopia on October 4, it was announced on Friday.
"On the invitation of Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh, President Ram Nath Kovind is undertaking a state visit to Djibouti on October 3 and 4. It will be first country the President will visit after assuming office," Ashok Malik, Press Secretary to the President, told reporters.
It would also be a first visit by an Indian head of state or government to Djibouti as the previous highest level visitor from India was a Minister of State, Malik said.
During the visit, Kovind would be received by his counterpart and will have official talks with him.
"He is also expected to be received by Djibouti Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed," Malik said.
During the visit, an agreement on institutionalising foreign office consultations is expected to be signed apart from agreements related to accelerated and greater economic cooperation between the two countries, he added.
"The President would also address the small Indian community consisting of a few hundred people."
Neena Malhotra, Joint Secretary for East and Southern Africa, said that Kovind would visit Ethiopia from October 4 to 6, which would be the first visit by an Indian President to Ethiopia after almost 45 years. Last such visit was by then President V.V. Giri was in 1972.
"Africa is chosen as first overseas destination of President's visit and that reflects importance given to African continent by the current government," Malhotra said.
She added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that Africa is priority for India's economic and foreign policy and hence 16 VVIP visits have been made to the continent in the last three years and there is no country in the continent not visited in last three years by an Indian minister.
"Ethiopia as one of the fastest growing non-oil producing economies in Africa offers immense opportunities for India and Indian businesses," she said.
The awards were presented during a special ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here.
The names of the recipients were announced in June last year. According to the Akademi, the awards symbolize the highest standard of excellence and achievements and recognise sustained individual work and contribution.
The award carries with it Rs 100,000, a 'tamrapatra' and an 'angavastram'.
Apart from Mohapatra, those awarded in the field of dance include Rama Vaidyanathan (Bharatanatyam), Shobha Koser (Kathak), Madambi Subramanian (Kathakali), L.N. Oinam Ongbi Dhoni Devi (Manipuri), Deepika Reddy (Kuchipudi), Ramkrishna Talukdar (Sattriya), Janmajay Saibabu (Chhau) and Aashit Desai (music for dance).
Those awarded in the field of music include Lalith J. Rao (Hindustani vocal), Umakant and Ramakant Gundecha (Hindustani vocal), Yogesh Samsi (tabla), Rajendra Prasanna (shehnnai/flute), M.S. Sheela (Carnatic vocal), Suma Sudhindra (veena), Tiruvarur Vaidyanathan (mridangam), Shashank Subramanyam (flute), Madhurani and Haimanti Sukla (sugam sangeet) and Gurnam Singh (Gurbani).
Abhiram Bhadakamkar (playwriting), Sunil Shanbagh (direction), Bapi Bose (direction), Hema Singh, Deepak Tiwari, Anil Tickoo (acting), Nuruddin Ahmed (stage craft), Avtar Sahani (lighting) and Shougrakpam Hemanta Singh (Shumang Leela, Manipur) were awarded for theatre.
Anwar Khan Manganiyar (Rajasthan), Ramchandra Majhi (Bihar), Parvathy Baul (Baul, West Bengal), Saravjit Kaur (Punjab), K.C. Runremsangi (Mizoram) and Mukund Nayak (Jharkhand) were awarded for folk music.
Others awarded in the traditional/folk/tribal music/dance/theatre and puppetry include Prakash Khandge (folk arts, Maharashtra), Jagannath Bayan (traditional music, Khol, Assam), Rakesh Tiwari (folk theatre, Chhattisgarh) and Sudip Gupta (puppetry, West Bengal).
Vijay Verma and Sandhya Purecha were awarded for their overall contribution/scholarship in the performing arts.
Amid chanting of hymns, children in Bhubaneswar invoked the goddess in their respective schools.
#WATCH: Students take part in #SaraswatiPuja celebrations in #Bhubaneswar #Odisha pic.twitter.com/f4RShu5VpI
— OTV (@otvnews) February 10, 2019
The day also marks the beginning of the chariot making process for the Rath Yatra in Puri. All preparations have been made by the temple administration to kick start the process today.
Students of Sudarsan Sand Art Institute created a unique sand sculpture in Puri to pay tributes to goddess Saraswati.
"The sculpture has been made by girls and we also wanted to give a message on women empowerment on the auspicious day," said Nivedita Mishra, a student.
#WATCH: Students of Sudarsan Sand Art Institute come up with a unique sand sculpture in #Puri to pay tributes to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge #SaraswatiPuja #BasantPanchami #Odisha pic.twitter.com/nhcUT9baZZ
— OTV (@otvnews) February 10, 2019
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind greeted the people of the country on the occasion of Basant Panchami today.
नव उमंग, नई ऊर्जा एवं नव स्फूर्ति के प्रतीक-पर्व बसंत पंचमी की सभी देशवासियों को ढेर सारी शुभकामनाएं। मेरी कामना है कि विद्या की देवी मां सरस्वती सबको ज्ञान एवं सद्बुद्धि प्रदान करें।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 10, 2019
Through a tweet, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also extended his wishes to the people of the State.
ପବିତ୍ର ବସନ୍ତ ପଞ୍ଚମୀ ଓ ମା’ ସରସ୍ଵତୀଙ୍କ ପୂଜା ଅବସରରେ ରାଜ୍ୟବାସୀଙ୍କୁ ମୋର ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା ଓ ଅଭିନନ୍ଦନ। ବିଦ୍ୟାଦାୟିନୀ ମା’ ସରସ୍ଵତୀଙ୍କ ଅପାର କରୁଣାରୁ ସଭିଙ୍କ କଲ୍ୟାଣ ହେଉ। pic.twitter.com/W6STpI5Ip8
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) February 10, 2019
The Crown Prince arrived here on Monday evening following his visit to Pakistan. From Islamabad, he flew to Riyadh before departing for New Delhi.
After the ceremonial welcome where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present, the Saudi royal told the media: "Today we want to be sure that this relation is maintained and improved for the sake of both countries.
"With the leadership of the President and the Prime Minister, I am sure we can create good things for Saudi Arabia and India."
He also said that the ties between India and the Arabian Peninsula "is in our DNA".
The Crown Prince is slated to hold a bilateral meeting with Modi later in the day.
The awards were given at a special ceremony organised at the Rastrapati Bhawan in the presence of Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi.
To acknowledge women's achievements, the Ministry of Women and Child Development confers Nari Shakti Puraskar on women and institutions in recognition of their relentless service towards the cause of women empowerment and social welfare.
The 44 awardees include DRDO scientist Ipsita Biswas, India's first woman marine pilot Reshma Nilofer Naha, expert on subjects of agro-biodiversity Rahibai Soma Popere, acid attack survivor Pragya Prasun, woman commando trainer Seema Rao and motivational speaker Sister Shivani, among others.
The Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honour for women, has also been awarded to a One Stop Centre (OSC), Lucknow, Qasab-Kutch Craftswomen Producer and Social Welfare and Nuritious Meal Programme Department of Tamil Nadu.
"All the awardees are a face of change, reflecting the shift in the status of women in the country, from women development to women-led development. I congratulate all of them for their achievements," Gandhi said.
"No field has been left untouched, where women have not left their indelible mark, making women the leading force of our development trajectory. I appreciate the contribution of each one of them and hope that they will continue working for the cause of a better society," she said.
This year, among the awardees are scientists, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, social workers, farmers, artists, masons, woman marine pilot, woman commando trainer, journalists and filmmakers and many others.
The awardees said they were honoured to have been conferred such a prestigious award and vowed to take the cause for which they were awarded forward.
Popere, a self-made expert in the subject of agro-biodiversity landrace conservation, embarked on the first train journey of her life to collect the Nari Shakti award.
The 43-year-old expert, also known as the seed mother, said she has conserved indigenous landraces of 17 different crops by combining agriculture with technology.
Prasun, who is an acid attack survivor, said she was attacked when she was 23-years-old, 12 days after marriage. After undergoing the trauma of the attack, she decided to help survivors and started an organisation to aid their medical treatment.
"This award will help more acid attack survivors realise that they are not alone in their struggles and aid them," she told PTI.
For the awards announced on the eve of Republic Day, the government received a record 50,000 nominations, 20 times more than the 2,200 entries in 2014.
The awardees include 12 farmers from nine states, 14 doctors from 11 states, nine sportspersons, 16 social workers and others representing various fields.
Of the 112 named for the awards, 56 will receive the honour on March 11.
Among those to be awarded on March 11 include Balasaheb alias Balwant Moreshwar Purandare from Maharashtra who will be honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.
There will be eight Padma Bhushan honours to be given to John Chambers, Sardar Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan, Vishwanathan Mohanlal, Budhaditya Mukherjee, Karia Munda, Kuldip Nayar (posthumous) and Hukumdev Narayan Yadav.
The Padma award winners will interact with the winners of Padma Quiz organised by the government last week which saw participation by 35,499 people.
"The oath was administered at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan," according to an official statement.
Justice Ghose, the former Supreme Court judge, was on March 19 appointed as the country's first Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman.