India Celebrates Harvest 2026: Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu Traditions Revealed

January 14, 2026, India is draped in vibrant colors and festive spirit as millions celebrate Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.¹ These festivals mark the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and the start of Uttarayana, the auspicious six-month northward journey of the Sun.²+1

While the core essence of gratitude to nature and the Sun God remains the same, each region brings its own unique flavor to the celebrations.³

1. Makar Sankranti: The Festival of Kites and Holy Dips⁴

Celebrated primarily in North and West India, Makar Sankranti is a day of spiritual purification and sky-high joy.

• The Ritual of Snan: Thousands of devotees gathered at the Gangasagar Mela in West Bengal and various ghats of the Ganga in Varanasi and Haridwar for a holy dip, believed to wash away sins.⁵
• Kite Flying: In Gujarat and Rajasthan, the skyline is a mosaic of kites.⁶ The International Kite Festival reached its peak today as families gathered on rooftops to participate in friendly “kite battles.”⁷+1
• Auspicious Muhurat: For 2026, the Punya Kala (auspicious window) is observed today from 03:13 PM to 05:45 PM, with the specific Sankranti Moment occurring at 03:13 PM.⁸

2. Pongal: Tamil Nadu’s Four-Day Harvest Gala⁹

In South India, particularly Tamil Nadu, the harvest festival is known as Thai Pongal.¹⁰

• “Pongalo Pongal!”: The main ritual involves boiling fresh rice with milk and jaggery in new clay pots.¹¹ As the mixture overflows, people shout “Pongalo Pongal!” to symbolize overflowing prosperity.
• PM Modi’s Participation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the festivities today at the residence of Union Minister L.¹² Murugan in Delhi, highlighting the “Namma Ooru Modi Pongal” initiative which bridges Tamil culture with national unity.¹³+1
• Mattu Pongal: Tomorrow (Jan 15), the focus will shift to Mattu Pongal, where cattle are decorated and worshipped for their vital role in farming.¹⁴

3. Magh Bihu: Assam’s Feast of Fire and Food¹⁵

In the Northeast, Assam is celebrating Magh Bihu (also called Bhogali Bihu), which is centered around community bonding and feasting.¹⁶

• Uruka Night: Last night, communities gathered for Uruka, a grand feast held inside temporary thatched huts called Bhelaghars.¹⁷
• Burning the Meji: This morning, the Meji (tall structures made of bamboo and straw) were set ablaze as an offering to Agni Dev, the God of Fire.¹⁸ People prayed for a bountiful year ahead while sharing traditional snacks like pitha (rice cakes) and laru (sweet balls).¹⁹+1

Quick Comparison: The Harvest Season at a Glance

Cultural Unity in Diversity

President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi both highlighted that these festivals are a testament to India’s “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” spirit.²⁰ Whether it is through the exchange of Til-Gul in Maharashtra or the sharing of Jolpan in Assam, the underlying message remains: a deep respect for the Earth, the farmers, and the celestial cycles that sustain life.²¹+1

Would you like me to find the best traditional recipes for Pongal or the specific bank holiday list for your city tomorrow?

ShivSena (NDA) National Convenor Dr Abhishek Verma addressing workers at the 13th Karyakarta Sankalp Diwas of Nishad Party in Lucknow.

Lucknow:
The 13th Karyakarta Sankalp Diwas of the Nirbal Indian Shoshit Hamara Aam Dal (Nishad Party) was organized at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Auditorium, Ram Manohar Lohia Law University, Ashiyana. Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) National Convenor Dr. Abhishek Verma attended the event as the chief guest and addressed a large gathering of party workers.

Addressing the workers, Dr. Abhishek Verma emphasized that protecting the rights of the oppressed, deprived, and marginalized sections of society is the true essence of politics. He said that the ideologies of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Ram Manohar Lohia continue to guide the struggle for social justice.

He urged Nishad Party workers to strengthen the organization at the grassroots level and ensure that the voice of the last person in society is heard. Verma stated that dedication, struggle, and organization are essential to bring meaningful social change.

Key issues such as social justice, political representation, education, and employment were discussed during the event. On the occasion of Sankalp Diwas, workers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the party and fighting for social equality.

Several senior leaders and hundreds of workers from across the state were present at the event, which was marked by enthusiasm and unity.

Dr. Nishad stated that icons such as Veerangana Phoolan Devi, late Jamuna Nishad, Mahendra Singh Rajput, Dhaniram Verma, and Manohar Lal Nishad were used and betrayed by past regimes. He strongly demanded a CBI inquiry into the murders of Phoolan Devi and Jamuna Nishad to bring out the truth.

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, fishermen received ₹41.5 thousand crore in the last 11 years, whereas Congress governments provided only ₹3 thousand crore in 67 years.

He said PM Modi is genuinely committed to the development and upliftment of the fishing community.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, SBSP National President Om Prakash Rajbhar, Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh and other leaders also addressed the gathering.

Competitive Exam Aspirants Thank CM Bhajan Lal Sharma for Transparent Exams, Job Calendar

Jaipur, 13 January. On Tuesday, a large number of youth preparing for competitive examinations reached the Chief Minister’s residence and expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on fulfillment of the promise of issuing calendar of one lakh recruitments, providing one lakh government jobs in two years tenure and making Rajasthan paper leak free. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also addressed the candidates and promised them that now all the examinations in the state will be conducted with transparency. The youth should study diligently, the government stands with them at every step.

Sharma said that youth are nation builders. Rapid development of the country and the state is possible only by giving the right direction to their hard work. Giving a gift to the youth, our government has released the calendar of 1 lakh recruitment examinations. Now the youth will not have to wait long for recruitment. Recruitment examinations will be held on time and will be fair, due to which the youth will definitely get the fruits of their hard work. He said that along with the calendar of recruitment examinations, new youth policy and employment policy have also been issued, which will benefit the youth preparing for competitive examinations as well as those interested in self-employment and entrepreneurship.

The Chief Minister said that there is immense potential for progress in every area of ​​Rajasthan. By imbibing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Swadeshi’, the youth should contribute significantly to the development of the state by becoming employment providers. He said that the government is continuously working to provide employment opportunities to the youth in the private sector also. More than two lakh employment opportunities have been provided in the private sector.

Shri Sharma said that during the tenure of the previous government, the dreams of lakhs of youth were shattered due to paper leak. Our government has freed the state from paper leak cases. In two years, 351 examinations have been conducted without any irregularities. More than 1 lakh government jobs have been given and the recruitment process is going on for about 1 lakh 43 thousand posts.

The youth thanked the government by raising slogans –
The youth preparing for competitive examinations expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister by raising slogans for the decisions being taken continuously in the interest of youth. During a conversation with the Chief Minister, a student thanked him for releasing the recruitment calendar at the beginning of the year and said that earlier the youth used to prepare for the examinations but the examinations were not conducted on time. In such a situation, family members starteJaipur, January 13:
A large number of youths preparing for competitive examinations reached the Chief Minister’s residence on Tuesday and expressed their gratitude to Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma for fulfilling key promises related to employment and transparent recruitment.

The youths thanked the Chief Minister for issuing a calendar of one lakh recruitment examinations, committing to providing one lakh government jobs within two years, and taking decisive steps to make Rajasthan paper leak-free.

Addressing the candidates, Chief Minister Sharma assured them that all examinations in the state will now be conducted with complete transparency. He encouraged the youth to study with dedication, stating that the government stands firmly with them at every step.

“The youth are the builders of the nation. Rapid development of the country and the state is possible only by giving the right direction to their hard work,” Sharma said. He added that by releasing the recruitment calendar, the government has ensured that candidates will no longer face uncertainty or long delays. Recruitment examinations will now be held on time and fairly, allowing deserving candidates to reap the rewards of their hard work.

The Chief Minister also highlighted that along with the recruitment calendar, the state government has introduced a new Youth Policy and Employment Policy. These policies aim to benefit not only aspirants preparing for competitive examinations but also those interested in self-employment and entrepreneurship.

Emphasizing Rajasthan’s vast development potential, Sharma urged the youth to adopt Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Swadeshi’ and become job creators rather than job seekers. He noted that the government is continuously working to expand employment opportunities in the private sector as well, with over two lakh jobs already provided.

Taking a dig at the previous government, Sharma said that repeated paper leaks had shattered the dreams of lakhs of youth earlier. “Our government has freed Rajasthan from paper leak cases. In the last two years, 351 examinations have been conducted without any irregularities,” he said. He added that more than one lakh government jobs have already been given, and the recruitment process is currently underway for around 1.43 lakh posts.

Youth Raise Slogans, Express Relief

During the interaction, youths preparing for competitive examinations raised slogans in support of the Chief Minister and thanked him for the youth-friendly decisions. One student shared that earlier, despite preparation, exams were not held on time, leading to family pressure for marriage. “Now, with the recruitment calendar released, we can prepare with focus and confidence,” the student said.

A large number of competitive exam aspirants from across Rajasthan were present on the occasion.d pressurizing them for marriage. Now that the recruitment calendar has been released, you can prepare diligently.

During this, a large number of candidates preparing for competitive examinations from all over the state were present.

Indo-International Intellectual Conclave 2026 Held at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi

New Delhi:
The Indo-International Intellectual Conclave 2026 was held at the prestigious India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, marking a significant step toward strengthening global intellectual cooperation and recognising unreached talent across borders. The high-level conclave brought together an eminent gathering of leaders, diplomats, jurists, scholars, academicians, and professionals from India and various countries, creating a vibrant platform for dialogue, recognition, and international collaboration.

The primary objective of the conclave was to identify individuals of exceptional merit whose contributions often remain outside mainstream recognition and to provide them with global exposure and international acknowledgment. The event reflected India’s growing role as a global hub for intellectual exchange, thought leadership, and inclusive dialogue.

The conclave was graced by distinguished Chief Guests, including Smt Swati Maliwal, Member of Parliament, known for her strong advocacy on social and human rights issues, and Smt Sheilabai Bappoo, High Commissioner of Mauritius to India. Their presence highlighted the importance of democratic values, social responsibility, and international cooperation in shaping a knowledge-driven global society.

Adding significant international stature to the event was Shri Mookhesswur Choonee, former Cabinet Minister of Arts and Culture, Government of Mauritius. His participation reinforced the cultural and intellectual ties between India and Mauritius and underlined the shared civilisational values that bind the two nations.

Presiding over the conclave, Dr. Abhishek Verma, National Chief Coordinator, ShivSena (NDA), delivered a concise yet impactful address. He emphasised that true nation-building goes beyond political power or economic growth and is deeply rooted in ideas, values, ethics, and intellectual leadership. Dr. Verma highlighted the ShivSena (NDA) vision of strengthening Bharat’s intellectual capital and stated that recognising excellence carries a moral responsibility to guide, mentor, and inspire future generations.

He further noted that intellectual leadership plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse, preserving civilisational values, and creating solutions to contemporary global challenges. According to him, platforms like the Indo-International Intellectual Conclave serve as catalysts for nurturing thought leaders who can contribute meaningfully to society and the nation.

The conclave reaffirmed India’s ancient civilisational ethos of open dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation beyond geographical and cultural boundaries. By promoting the exchange of ideas and celebrating intellectual merit, the event reinforced India’s commitment to becoming a global centre for knowledge, culture, and responsible leadership.

The Indo-International Intellectual Conclave 2026 concluded on a note of optimism, with participants expressing confidence that such forums will continue to strengthen international understanding, promote intellectual excellence, and contribute to a more thoughtful and inclusive global order.

Pugal Solar Park will have 2450 MW capacity

Jaipur, 11 January. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, the state government is continuously giving impetus to solar energy projects in the state. In this sequence, the tender for the solar park being established in Pugal in Bikaner district has been launched on the online platform. In this, the last date for submitting bids has been fixed as March 9. In this tender, Indian and foreign companies in the solar energy sector will submit their bids.

Energy Minister Shri Hiralal Nagar informed that along with 2,450 MW solar power projects, 1,600 MW/6,400 MW-hour battery energy storage system will also be set up in Pugal Solar Park. This park will be a major step towards providing assured and dispatchable renewable energy in the state.  

The Energy Minister said that Rajasthan Solar Park Development Company, a subsidiary of Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited, is developing the infrastructure for this project. 4,394 hectares of land has been allotted for this. The solar and battery energy storage projects that will be established in this will be connected to the transmission system of Rajasthan Electricity Transmission Corporation. The projects will be developed under the “Build on Operate” (BOO) model.

He said that 100 percent power generated from these projects will be purchased by Rajasthan Energy Development and IT Services Limited for the discoms of the state for 25 years. This will ensure long-term revenue to developers.

The park will be developed in two parts. The first phase will develop 2,000 MW of solar power as well as a 1,320 MW/5,280 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. The second phase will develop 450 MW of solar power and a 280 MW/1,120 megawatt-hour energy storage system. Bidders can participate in both the lots. In this, use of solar modules listed in the Approved List of Module Manufacturers, adherence to cyber security standards and installation of GPS-enabled automatic weather stations will be mandatory. Energy production will have to start within 24 months from the date of signing.

The Energy Minister said that these projects will bring investment of about Rs 17,000 crore and generate about 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, which will contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the state.

The Energy Minister said, “This mega tender will make Rajasthan a leader in renewable energy along with energy storage. It will ensure power supply during peak hours and will significantly contribute to India’s energy transition. He has invited developers from across the country and the world to participate in this transformative initiative. 

key dates

Opening of bids: 12 March 2026

Bid download start: 9 January 2026

Site Visit: From 10 January 2026

Pre-bid meeting: 22 January 2026

Bid submission: 9 March 2026

Rajasthan becomes witness to military history of India

Jaipur, 10 January. On the occasion of 78th Army Day, the indomitable courage, bravery and military might of the Indian Army was displayed in a grand display in the Shaurya Sandhya organized by the South Western Command (Sapta Shakti Command) of the Indian Army at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. In this historic event, the wars and major military operations fought by the Indian Army from the Indo-Pak War of 1947 to Operation Sindoor were depicted alive through theatrical, visual and technical presentations.

On this occasion, Army Commander of South Western Command, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh said that Rajasthan is a land of bravery and bravery. This land has given birth to mighty warriors like Maharana Sanga, Maharana Pratap, Param Vir Chakra winner Piru Singh, Param Vir Chakra winner Shaitan Singh. He said that Army Day is being organized for the first time in Rajasthan on the initiative of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He said that during this period, activities like Honor Camp, Cycle Rally, Mega Medical Camp, ‘Know Your Army’ exhibition are being organized.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Modi, the modernization of India’s armed forces is progressing at an unprecedented pace. Indigenization in defense production is being given priority under the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” campaigns. He told that with the help of these new technologies, in Operation Sindoor, India forced the enemy country Pakistan to surrender in just 88 hours.

Images of military innovation and modernization adorned with 1,000 indigenous drones—

The main attraction of Shaurya Sandhya was the grand drone show decorated with one thousand indigenous drones. The glimpse of Arjuna riding the chariot of Lord Krishna in the sky, Maharana Pratap, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the tricolor, army insignia as well as the Bhairav ​​battalion of the Indian Army, military renewal and modernization mesmerized the audience. The drone show powerfully presented the indigenous defense capabilities and the spirit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vikas Bharat-2047.

The story of the glory of Operation Sindoor seen in a theatrical presentation and a short film –

The theatrical presentation and film displayed at the program depicted the journey of glory, courage and sacrifice of the Indian Army from 1947 to Operation Sindoor. In these, from the tribal attacks in Kashmir to the Indo-Pak war of 1965 and 1971, the Kargil War, the First Kashmir War, the cruelty and nefarious intentions of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in the Pulwama attacks and our military surgical strike against it, the indomitable courage of the Indian Army and the strong will of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in various military actions like ‘Operation Sindoor’, Operation Sudarshan Chakra were effectively presented, which filled the gathering with patriotism. Gave.

Amazing confluence of tradition and power—

Traditional Indian sports arts Malkhamb and Kalaripayattu were also demonstrated in the Shaurya Sandhya. Along with this, the exciting aerial display by Shatrujit Brigade of Para Motors made the program even more memorable.

Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa took charge as the first Army Chief of independent India on January 15, 1949. To perpetuate this memory and commemorate the pride of the Army, Army Day is celebrated every year on 15 January. This day symbolizes to pay tribute to the courage, discipline and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers who have protected the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.

Army Day organized for the first time in Jaipur—

For the first time, Army Day is being organized in Jaipur. This is a proud moment for the state. Along with this, for the first time in the country this event is being organized outside the military cantonment area. There was a tradition of organizing Army Day in New Delhi Cantonment area till the year 2022. On the initiative of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Army Day started being celebrated outside New Delhi from 2023 with the aim of connecting the common people across the country with the sacrifice and pride of the Army. Army Day was celebrated in Bangalore in 2023, Lucknow in 2024 and Pune in 2025, but for the first time in the country, Army Day, 2026 is being celebrated outside the cantonment area so that maximum participation of the common people can be ensured.

On this occasion, Chief Government Secretary of General Administration Department, Mr. Naveen Jain, Government Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr. Neeraj K. Pawan, Jaipur District Collector Dr. Jitendra Soni, senior officers of the Indian Army, soldiers, NCC cadets and a large number of common people were present.

Youth are main drivers on India’s Viksit Bharat journey: Raksha Mantri

“Youth are the main drivers on the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat,” said Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh as he interacted with 78 young, ignited minds of Uttar Pradesh at an event in Delhi Cantt on January 10, 2026. This UP contingent is among the youth who are participating in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in New Delhi from January 10-12, 2026. Commending the Youth Leaders for their achievements in various fields, Raksha Mantri exuded confidence that their energy, aspirations, and innovative capabilities are guiding the nation to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat.

Rajnath Singh called upon the youth to embrace multidisciplinary learning to stay abreast with the rapid technological advancements, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and space research. “The learning process never ends. You should learn from the latest practices, from your own mistakes, and most importantly, from the experiences of others. Dream big, but never let it become a burden,” he said.

Describing challenges as not an exception to life but its natural part, Raksha Mantri emphasised that testing times reveal a person’s true inner self and character. “It’s easy to remain composed when things are moving ahead as planned. But criticism and failure are what test a person’s mettle, ultimately determining the future direction. However, not being afraid doesn’t mean taking problems lightly; it means we should face them with courage, wisdom, and self-confidence,” he said.

Rajnath Singh urged the youth to not view a challenge as a burden, rather an opportunity, which recognises and enhances one’s capabilities while strengthening character. “Easy paths often make us weak, while difficult paths make us strong, resilient, and capable. Complaining doesn’t solve a problem, finding a solution does. Self-confidence is the key, which isn’t achieved from ego, but from hard work and integrity. One should also always remain humble as your achievements are not just yours alone but are a contribution of family, teachers, and friends. Humility keeps you grounded,” he told the youth present on the occasion.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Ex-servicemen Welfare) Smt Sukriti Likhi and other senior officials were present during the interaction.

Three new laws guarantee protection of body, property and honor – Amit Shah

Jaipur, 10 January. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah has said that a state can progress only by recruiting public servants in a transparent manner and the government of Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma has freed Rajasthan from this problem by ending the paper leak issue of the previous government. He said that our state government is giving jobs to the youth of Rajasthan ‘without recommendation and without expense’ while maintaining transparency in the recruitment process, eradicating corruption and respecting merit.
Mr. Shah was addressing the constable new appointment ceremony in RPA on Saturday. He said that development of the state is possible only with good law and order. Keeping this in mind, the government of Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, along with banning paper leaks, has strengthened the law and order system and under the leadership of the Prime Minister, has also worked to make Rajasthan the leading investment state in the entire country. The result of this is that today investors from all over the country are competing to come to Rajasthan.

Rajasthan Cyber ​​Crime Co-ordination Center will be established – Chief Minister

On this occasion, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced the establishment of Rajasthan Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Center (R4C) in the state on the lines of Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Center (I4C) to effectively deal with the challenge of cyber crime.

R4C will be developed as a center of excellence in the field of cyber crime control. Through R4C, a strong and centralized framework will be provided for coordination, information-sharing and research related to cyber crimes among all the districts of the state. Besides, capacity building of police officers will also be done.

Rajasthan Police is the leading police force of the country-
The Union Home Minister said that Rajasthan Police Force holds a place among the leading and capable police forces of the country. Congratulating the newly selected constables on receiving their appointment letters, he said that the youth who have received the uniform today should concentrate fully on their training with a steady mind and after this, through their work, they should fulfill the resolve of a safe Rajasthan by ensuring the service and safety of the public. He expressed happiness over the inclusion of more than 2,500 women among the selected constables.
Shri Shah said that in this state, which has more than a thousand kilometer long border with Pakistan, inaccessible ravines of Chambal, Thar Desert, tourist places like Dargah Sharif in Ajmer, Pushkar, Nathdwara, Chittor, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur and natural places like Ranthambore, Sariska, Keoladeo, the challenge of the police increases further. He said that the government of Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma has proved what a difference the coming of a government that runs the government with commitment and transparency and maintains law and order can make in the state. He said that after the formation of our government in Rajasthan, total crimes have decreased by more than 14 percent in two years. There has been a reduction of 19 percent in serious crimes, 25 percent in murder, 19 percent in attempt to murder, 10 percent in atrocities against women, 28 percent in crimes against Scheduled Castes and Tribes, 47 percent in robbery cases and about 51 percent in robbery cases.

Rajasthan Police became modern in two years-
The Union Home Minister said that in two years, many important initiatives have been taken like formation of Anti Gangster Task Force in Rajasthan Police, 112 from Abhay Command Center for modernization of police, integration of CCTNS and Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS), introduction of Kalika Patrolling Unit, formation of Anti Narcotics Task Force etc. In this sequence, an important step has been taken to establish Rajasthan Cyber ​​Crime Co-ordination Center to prevent cyber crimes.

All five pillars of criminal justice system connected online-

Shri Shah said that under the leadership of the country’s successful Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the British laws made 150 years ago have been abolished and three new laws including the Indian Justice Code have been brought. These codes are designed to ensure the guarantees of protection of person, property and dignity provided by the Constitution. Giving an important place to technology in the new laws, the five pillars of the criminal justice system – police, prosecution, jail, FSL and court – have been added online. Many new provisions have been made through these laws to protect the rights of citizens. A new chapter of women safety and child safety has also been added. Along with defining terrorism and organized crime, FSL investigation has been made mandatory in cases punishable with imprisonment of seven years and more.

The Union Home Minister said that after the full implementation of these laws, whatever FIRs are registered, arrangements will be made to get justice in the Supreme Court within three years. He said that due to these laws, the conviction rate by Rajasthan Police has increased from 41 percent to 60 percent and this rate is expected to reach 85 percent in the coming time.

This unprecedented period of the country under the leadership of Prime MinisterNarendra Modi:Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that the present period is an unprecedented period after the independence of the country, in which the country is getting the strong and efficient leadership of the successful Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah. By removing Article 370, work was done to strengthen the unity and integrity of the country by connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the mainstream of the country. Shri Sharma said that the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir is a true tribute to Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who made extraordinary contribution in the integration of the country.

Union Home Minister strengthened internal security by eliminating Naxalism-

Sharma said that the Union Home Minister worked to strengthen the internal security of the country by eliminating Naxalism. The justice system of the country has been made more democratic by three new laws which have abolished colonial-minded laws in the country. Through the CAA law, the way has been opened for granting Indian citizenship to minorities facing religious persecution in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Also, due to important peace agreements in the North-East, a large number of youth have given up arms and returned to the mainstream due to which the North-Eastern part of the country is rapidly moving forward on the path of peace and development.

Newly selected constables should work alert, capable and ready.

Congratulating the soldiers who received the appointment letters, the Chief Minister said that getting the appointment letters from the Union Home Minister is icing on the cake for the youth. This moment will always inspire him to perform his duties with full devotion and dedication. He said that all the newly selected constables have to understand the provisions of the three new laws thoroughly and work in accordance with their spirit, being alert, capable and ready for every challenge, from cyber crime to organized crime. He said that the state government has modernized the police training by changing its old methods, which has also included technologies like AI and advanced forensics.

Important works done to strengthen law and order-

Sharma said that to strengthen law and order, our government has done many important works for women safety in the last two years including installation of 65 Anti Romeo Squads, 500 Kalika Patrolling Units, 9,400 CCTV cameras. SIT has been formed and around 400 accused have been arrested in cases of irregularities in examinations. Along with running Operation Cyber ​​Shield to stop cyber crimes, cyber help desks have been established in all the police stations. Due to these efforts, there has been a big improvement in law and order.

Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar Sharma said that constables are the backbone of the criminal justice system. He said that the appointment of more than 8 thousand constables will strengthen the law and order of the state. He said that with the implementation of new laws, there has been unprecedented improvement in the quality of research in the state.
Shah symbolically presented appointment letters to 10 constables in the program. Appointment letters were provided to more than 8 thousand constables in the program. Earlier, he virtually inaugurated the multi-purpose indoor hall built at Rajasthan Police Academy, Jaipur under the Khelo India scheme of the Government of India.

On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Premchand Bairwa, Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedham, MP Madan Rathore, Chief Secretary V Srinivas, public representatives, police officers, a large number of newly appointed constables and their families were present.

BMC Elections 2026: Decisive Battle for Mumbai’s Power, Development and Identity at the Core

Mumbai | Special Report

The political atmosphere in India’s financial capital has intensified ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Elections 2026. More than just a civic poll, this election is being viewed as a battle for control over Mumbai’s administration, development agenda, and political future.

With an annual budget of nearly ₹74,000 crore, the BMC is India’s richest municipal body—larger than the budgets of several Indian states. This makes control over the civic body a matter of prestige and strategic importance for all major political parties.

🗳️ Election Schedule

• Polling Date: January 15, 2026
• Counting & Results: January 16, 2026
• Total Seats: 227
• Candidates: Over 1,700

After a delay of nearly four years, the elections are being held with extensive administrative preparations. Authorities have assured voters of transparent, fair, and secure polling across thousands of voting centres in the city.

🧩 Political Players and Contest

The BMC election is witnessing an intense multi-cornered contest:

• The Mahayuti alliance (BJP, Shiv Sena–Shinde faction, and a section of NCP) is campaigning on development, infrastructure growth, urban redevelopment, and administrative stability.
• The opposition bloc, including the Uddhav Thackeray faction, Congress, and other parties, is focusing on civic issues, rising costs of living, public services, and the protection of Marathi identity.

Adding to the complexity, a large number of independent and rebel candidates are in the fray, with the potential to significantly alter outcomes in several wards.

📌 Key Election Issues

• Poor road conditions, traffic congestion, and waterlogging
• Slum rehabilitation and affordable housing
• Water supply, sanitation, and public healthcare
• BEST bus services and public transport reforms
• Debate over Marathi identity versus rapid urban development

⚖️ Administrative and Legal Developments

The nomination process witnessed controversy, with legal challenges over rejected nominations. However, the Bombay High Court declined to interfere, emphasising the need to avoid disruption of the democratic process. Election authorities have reiterated their commitment to free and fair polls.

🔍 Why the BMC Election Matters

Control of the BMC goes far beyond civic administration. It directly influences Mumbai’s financial planning, urban infrastructure projects, and political clout. Political observers are also viewing the BMC polls as a key indicator for future Maharashtra and national-level elections.

The words Hindu and Hindutva are missing from the manifestos of the Uddhav Thackeray faction and MNS: Rahul Shewale

Regarding the municipal elections, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray held a joint press conference and released the promissory note for Mumbai. Many promises were made in this promissory note. On this, Shiv Sena general secretary and former MP Rahul Shewale revealed through the press that the entire promissory note is a copy paste of the previous promissory note, there is nothing new but Hindutva and Hindus are completely missing in this promissory note. Hindu Hriday Samrat ‘Hindu Hriday Samrat’ has been removed from the name of Bala Saheb because he has to please a particular community so that he can get their votes. To get these votes, Bala Saheb’s ideas have been killed. 

Rahul Shewale cornered Ubatha and MNS and asked what was the reason why the word Hindu has been disappeared from the entire promise. The same promise that was there in the elections of 2017 has once again been put in front of everyone, it is completely copy paste. A day earlier, just as the children gave incomplete information to the people in the name of the workshop, in the same way their parents also gave incomplete information. More English words have been used in the entire undertaking than Marathi words. What is the role of Raj Thackeray in this, it should be clarified. 

Target on Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray

Rahul Shewale made a sharp criticism and said that even though Balasaheb Thackeray’s photo is included in the promissory note, his soul is not there in it. This promise of the wretched MNS and Sharad Pawar’s Nationalist Congress, which does not honor and respect Balasaheb Thackeray, is going to cause deep pain to Shiv Sainiks and Marathi people. He said that by deliberately avoiding mention of the word “Hindu Hridaya Samrat” in the entire pledge, Ubathane has insulted Hindu Hridaya Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray in his birth centenary year itself. Shewale raised the question why despite being the Chief Minister for two and a half years, no decision was taken to regularize the unauthorized constructions of medical colleges and Koliwads in Mumbai.