Parakram Diwas 2026: Remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Spirit of Fearless Nationalism
EVENTS Parakram Diwas 2026: Remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Spirit of Fearless Nationalism Newsyaar February 1, 2026 2:07 pm Parakram Diwas, observed every year on January 23, marks the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most formidable freedom fighters. As India commemorates Parakram Diwas 2026, the day serves not merely as a tribute to a historical figure but as a reminder of an uncompromising vision of freedom, courage, and self-reliance that continues to resonate with the nation. Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhas Chandra Bose was a brilliant student who topped the Indian Civil Services (ICS) examination in England. Yet, in an act that defined his life, he resigned from the prestigious service to dedicate himself entirely to India’s freedom struggle. His decision reflected a core belief: freedom could not be negotiated; it had to be seized. Unlike many leaders of his time, Bose believed that political independence required direct action, not prolonged compromise. His ideological differences with the Indian National Congress leadership eventually led him to chart his own path, driven by urgency and revolutionary resolve. The Formation of the Indian National Army (INA) Netaji’s most defining contribution was the revival and leadership of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj). With the iconic call of “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” Bose mobilised thousands of Indians across Southeast Asia to take up arms against British rule. The INA was not merely a military force, it was a symbol of defiance. It challenged the myth of British invincibility and ignited a powerful sense of national pride among Indians, including those serving within the British Indian Army. Historians widely agree that the INA trials played a significant role in accelerating the British decision to leave India. The word “Parakram” means courage, valour, and decisive action, qualities Bose embodied throughout his life. Parakram Diwas was officially instituted by the Government of India to honour these values and inspire citizens, especially the youth, to act with conviction in nation-building. In 2026, as India navigates complex global challenges, economic uncertainty, technological transformation, and geopolitical shifts, Netaji’s ideas on self-reliance, unity, and national confidence feel strikingly relevant. His emphasis on discipline, leadership, and sacrifice offers a counterpoint to complacency and apathy. Bose’s vision extended beyond the mere end of colonial rule. He envisioned a strong, socially just, and industrially advanced India, where freedom translated into dignity for every citizen. His advocacy for women’s participation in the freedom struggle, exemplified by the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, was far ahead of its time. Even today, his ideas provoke thought, about leadership that demands accountability, patriotism that requires action, and freedom that comes with responsibility. Parakram Diwas 2026: A Call to Reflect and Act Parakram Diwas is not just about remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose; it is about questioning ourselves. Are we bold enough to stand by our principles? Are we willing to act when circumstances demand courage? As India observes Parakram Diwas 2026, Netaji’s life stands as a reminder that history is shaped not by comfort, but by conviction. His legacy urges the nation to move forward, not cautiously, but courageously. About the Author Events Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Retires After Nearly Three Decades of Spaceflight Service
SCIENCE NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Retires After Nearly Three Decades of Spaceflight Service Newsyaar January 27, 2026 7:00 pm NASA astronaut Sunita “Suni” Williams has formally retired after a distinguished 27-year career with the United States space agency, closing a chapter that spans some of the most significant phases of modern human spaceflight — from the Space Shuttle programme to the International Space Station (ISS) and the emergence of commercial crew missions. NASA announced her retirement in late 2025, acknowledging Williams’ extensive contributions to space exploration, mission leadership, astronaut training and long-duration human spaceflight operations. Early Life and Professional Background Born on September 19, 1965, Sunita Williams is of Indian-Slovenian descent and grew up in the United States. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a degree in physical science and later earned a master’s degree in engineering management from the Florida Institute of Technology. Before joining NASA, Williams served as a commissioned officer in the US Navy, where she became a helicopter pilot and later a test pilot, flying more than 30 aircraft types. Her operational and technical experience in aviation played a key role in her selection as an astronaut. Selection as NASA Astronaut Williams was selected as part of NASA’s 1998 astronaut class, one of the agency’s most competitive intakes. She underwent extensive training in spacecraft systems, robotics, spacewalks, Russian language and survival operations — a reflection of NASA’s increasingly international mission structure at the time. Her training coincided with the early assembly years of the International Space Station, positioning her at the forefront of long-duration orbital missions. Space Missions and Time in Orbit Over the course of her career, Williams flew on three space missions, spending a cumulative 608 days in space, making her one of NASA’s most experienced astronauts in terms of time spent in orbit. Her first spaceflight came in 2006 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-116), where she joined Expedition 14 and later Expedition 15 aboard the ISS. During this mission, she played a major role in station construction and systems maintenance. Williams returned to the ISS in 2012 as part of Expedition 32, later assuming command during Expedition 33, becoming one of the few astronauts — and one of the few women — to lead the orbiting laboratory. Record-Breaking Spacewalks One of Williams’ most notable achievements was her contribution to extravehicular activity (EVA). She conducted nine spacewalks, accumulating over 62 hours outside the ISS — a record for the most spacewalk time logged by a woman astronaut at the time. Her spacewalks involved complex tasks such as station assembly, repair of external systems, installation of scientific instruments and upgrades to power and cooling infrastructure critical to ISS operations. Leadership and Scientific Contributions As Commander of the ISS, Williams was responsible for crew safety, operational coordination, scientific mission execution and liaison with ground teams across multiple countries. Her tenure coincided with an intensive research phase aboard the station, with experiments spanning human physiology, material science, fluid dynamics and Earth observation. NASA officials have consistently cited her leadership style, operational discipline and technical proficiency as instrumental in sustaining continuous human presence aboard the ISS. Role in Commercial Crew and Training In the latter part of her career, Williams supported NASA’s transition toward commercial crew programmes, contributing to astronaut training, mission evaluations and operational readiness planning. Her experience across different spacecraft platforms made her a valuable resource during this transitional period. She was also involved in mentoring younger astronauts and supporting mission simulations, ensuring continuity of institutional knowledge within NASA’s astronaut corps. Retirement and Post-Service Benefits Williams retired at the age of 60, making her eligible for federal retirement benefits based on years of service. According to public disclosures, retired NASA astronauts receive pensions under standard US federal employee retirement systems, along with healthcare and post-service benefits. While she has not announced formal post-retirement plans, retired astronauts often continue contributing through education, public engagement, advisory roles, research collaborations and private-sector aerospace initiatives. Legacy and Impact Sunita Williams’ retirement marks the end of a career that bridged multiple eras of US space exploration. Her achievements place her among the most accomplished astronauts in NASA history, particularly in the areas of long-duration missions, spacewalk operations and international cooperation aboard the ISS. Her career has also held symbolic importance for aspiring scientists and engineers worldwide, particularly in India and among the global Indian diaspora, where her achievements have long been followed with pride. As NASA prepares for future missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond, Williams’ contributions remain embedded in the operational foundations of long-duration human spaceflight. 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Indian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Success, Full Results and Key Performances
SPORTS Indian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Success, Full Results and Key Performances Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:46 pm The year 2025 proved to be a landmark season for Indian archery across domestic and international competition, highlighted by commanding performances at the Asian Archery Championships 2025 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, strong showings in World Cup events and breakthrough achievements at national championships and para archery trials. Indian archers demonstrated depth, balance and historic breakthroughs across both recurve and compound disciplines, underscoring India’s emergence as a serious contender on the continental and global stage. Asian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Record Performance The 24th Asian Archery Championships 2025, held from 8 to 14 November in Dhaka, was one of the most successful outings for India in the history of the sport. India topped the medal table with 10 medals — 6 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze — surpassing perennial powerhouse South Korea, and announcing a new era of competitive strength. Indian success at the championships was spread across both recurve and compound categories, reflecting strong team depth and international competitiveness: Gold Medals (6): Included individual and team triumphs across recurve and compound events. Silver Medals (3): Strong performances in closely contested finals. Bronze Medal (1): Notable podium finishes amid tough competition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly congratulated the Indian archery contingent for this historic performance, highlighting the individual and team achievements that contributed to India’s best ever result at the tournament. Recurve Highlights: Historic Individual and Team Golds One of the standout narratives from Dhaka was India’s recurve double gold, a feat never before achieved at the Asian Championships. On a memorable final day: Ankita Bhakat clinched the Women’s Recurve Individual Gold, stunning Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallist Nam Suhyeon of South Korea with a 7-3 victory in the final. Her composed performance included precise shooting under pressure, delivering key arrows at crucial moments. Dhiraj Bommadevara captured the Men’s Recurve Individual Gold, defeating compatriot Rahul 6-2 in an all-Indian final — marking the first time an Indian man has won this title. India’s recurve team also delivered a historic Men’s Team Gold, defeating a Korean side in a dramatic shoot-off to secure the title — the first Indian men’s team gold at the Asian Championships in nearly two decades. In the Women’s Recurve category, Sangeeta added to the tally by edging out veteran and former world number one Deepika Kumari 6-5 in a shoot-off to claim the bronze medal. These victories underscored the growing strength and competitive parity of Indian archers against traditional Asian powerhouses. Compound Success: Multiple Golds and Mixed Team Triumphs Indian compound archers were equally impressive: Jyothi Surekha Vennam continued her dominance in the women’s compound events, winning Gold in the Compound Women’s Individual final in an all-Indian contest against Prithika Pradeep, securing the podium sweep for India. The Compound Women’s Team — comprising Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep and Deepshikha — captured Gold, defeating Korea 236-234 in a closely contested final. The Compound Mixed Team of Abhishek Verma and Deepshikha added another Gold medal, beating Bangladesh 153-151 in the final. These results highlighted India’s commanding performance across compound categories, with the mixed team victory showcasing strong team chemistry and precision under pressure. National Championships and Domestic Standouts At the National Archery Championships 2025 held in Hyderabad, Indian archers delivered exceptional performances that further illuminated the strength of the domestic circuit. Among the most prominent was Ojas Pravin Deotale, India’s first compound world champion and Asian Games triple gold medallist, who matched a world record with a perfect score of 150 and 13 inner-ring X’s in a 15-arrow compound match, demonstrating world-class precision on home soil. Domestic results also saw strong showings from: Deepika Kumari, one of India’s most decorated archers and a multiple Olympian, who continued to remain a key figure in recurve competitions. Emerging talents who performed consistently in national circuit events, bolstering the pipeline of competitive archery talent across age groups and formats. These national championships play a crucial role in selection for international assignments and provide a competitive foundation for athletes advancing to continental and world stages. Para Archery Milestones India also made strides in para archery in 2025. Sheetal Devi, a star in the para circuit born with phocomelia, achieved a historic milestone as the first Indian para archer selected for the able-bodied national compound team following trials in Sonipat. Her selection for the able-bodied squad for the Asian Cup underscored not just her extraordinary talent but also the growing opportunities and inclusivity within Indian archery. Youth and World Cup Competitions Indian archery’s momentum extended beyond Asia. At the World Archery Youth Championships, young archers continued to shine, contributing medals and valuable experience to their competitive resumes. Meanwhile, in World Cup circuits, archers such as Deepika Kumari and Parth Salunkhe continued to represent India with podium finishes, including bronze medals, reflecting sustained international competitiveness. Structural Growth: Archery Premier League and Recognition In 2025, the Archery Premier League (APL) — India’s first franchise-based archery competition — was recognised as the Emerging Professional Sports Event of the Year at the India Sports Awards. The tournament, featuring six franchise teams and both compound and recurve formats, was lauded for enhancing competition exposure and advancing performance standards among Indian archers. Why 2025 Was a Breakthrough Year Collectively, India’s performances in 2025 — from national championships to continental dominance — marked a watershed moment in the country’s archery narrative. India’s 10-medal haul at the Asian Archery Championships, including historic recurve gold medals and strong compound victories, reflected the depth, balance and maturity of the national archery setup. With world-class performers, emerging talents and strong team cohesion, India’s archery ecosystem is now well positioned for major international events in 2026, including World Cup stages, Asia Cup competitions and multi-sport games where archers
Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur Birth Anniversary: Nation Remembers Champion of Social Justice
SOCIAL WORK Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur Birth Anniversary: Nation Remembers Champion of Social Justice Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:37 pm Tributes were paid across Bihar and the country on the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur, one of India’s most influential socialist leaders and a key architect of social justice politics in the Hindi heartland. Political leaders, social organisations and citizens remembered Thakur’s enduring contribution to inclusive governance, backward class empowerment and ethical public life. Born on January 24, 1924, in Samastipur district of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most respected mass leaders of the state. His political life was shaped by the freedom movement, socialist ideology and a deep commitment to the upliftment of marginalised communities. He passed away in 1988, but his legacy continues to influence India’s political and social discourse decades later. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, leaders cutting across party lines highlighted Thakur’s role in institutionalising social justice policies at a time when such ideas faced strong resistance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national tributes, recalling Thakur’s simplicity, integrity and lifelong dedication to the poor and backward classes. In a message, the Prime Minister described him as a visionary leader who devoted his life to empowering the marginalised and strengthening democratic values. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with several senior state leaders, paid floral tributes at Karpoori Thakur’s memorial and emphasised that his policies laid the foundation for social equality in the state. Similar commemorative events were held in Patna, Samastipur and other parts of Bihar, with public meetings recalling his governance model and personal conduct in public office. Karpoori Thakur served as the Chief Minister of Bihar twice — first from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1977 to 1979. His tenure is particularly remembered for the implementation of reservations for backward classes in government jobs at the state level, a move that preceded and later informed national-level policy debates on affirmative action. His decision to include extremely backward classes within the reservation framework was considered path-breaking and remains central to Bihar’s social justice structure today. Often referred to as “Jan Nayak” (people’s leader), Karpoori Thakur was known for his austere lifestyle and incorruptible reputation. Despite holding high office, he lived simply and maintained close contact with grassroots workers and ordinary citizens. His refusal to accumulate personal wealth and his insistence on clean politics set him apart in an era marked by increasing political competition and power struggles. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to public life and social equity, the Government of India conferred the Bharat Ratna — the country’s highest civilian award — on Karpoori Thakur posthumously in 2024. The honour was widely seen as long overdue and was welcomed across the political spectrum, particularly by leaders and communities who regard Thakur as a symbol of empowerment and dignity. Political analysts note that Karpoori Thakur’s relevance has only grown over time, especially as debates around social justice, representation and inclusive growth continue to shape Indian politics. His emphasis on education, reservation, linguistic accessibility in administration and decentralised governance remains influential, particularly in Bihar and neighbouring states. As the nation marks his birth anniversary, Karpoori Thakur is remembered not only as a former chief minister or socialist leader, but as a statesman whose ideas were rooted in equity, humility and democratic participation. His life and work continue to serve as a moral and political reference point in contemporary India, reinforcing the values of social justice and public service. About the Author Social Work Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Indian Startups at CES 2026: Homegrown Innovation Takes Global Spotlight in Las Vegas
TECH Indian Startups at CES 2026: Homegrown Innovation Takes Global Spotlight in Las Vegas Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:21 pm Indian startups and technology firms significantly expanded their presence at CES 2026 — the world’s largest technology showcase held in Las Vegas from January 6 to 9, 2026 — reflecting the country’s evolving tech ambitions and increasing global competitiveness. The annual event, organised by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), attracted more than 4,100 exhibitors from around 150 countries, underscoring its role as a launchpad for next-generation innovations spanning artificial intelligence (AI), digital health, robotics, mobility, enterprise technology and immersive entertainment. According to CTA executives, Indian participation has steadily grown, with a broader range of startups and established firms using the platform to showcase their products, engage with global partners and position themselves for international expansion. Indian delegations this year included innovators from healthtech, wearables, robotics and automotive systems, signalling the ecosystem’s transition from domestic focus to global impact. Ultrahuman: Metabolic Health and Wearables One of the headline Indian participants at CES 2026 was Ultrahuman, a Bengaluru-based health technology firm co-founded by Mohit Kumar, Vinay Bhargava and Vatsal Singhal. The company displayed its suite of wearable health devices and preventive care platforms, including what it bills as the world’s lightest sleep-tracking wearable, a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system and a preventive blood testing solution designed to empower users with metabolic insights. Ultrahuman’s presence marked India’s growing footprint in consumer health tech at global forums. Noise: Smart Wearables Designed for Global Markets Noise, headquartered in Gurugram and led by founders Amit Khatri and Gaurav Khatri, was another major Indian exhibitor. The company, recognised as one of the third-largest smartwatch brands in the world, showcased its latest wearable technologies at CES, emphasising advanced health metrics, design innovation and global compatibility. Noise’s participation highlighted India’s emergence not only as a producer of affordable wearables but as a designer and manufacturer capable of competing with established global brands. “We are proud to come here and compete on a world stage,” said Hamish Patel, Vice President – Product Devices at Noise, noting that the company’s R&D and manufacturing are largely based in India, enabling it to present products that match global benchmarks. aabo: MedTech Innovations Among the Indian startups at CES 2026 was aabo, a MedTech firm focused on AI-driven health solutions. Although not a household name, its technology emphasises the intersection of machine intelligence and healthcare delivery, an area of rising relevance as global health systems integrate data-led diagnostics and monitoring. The specifics of aabo’s product suite were highlighted among Indian exhibitors but details on founders and product characteristics are linked to its positioning as a healthtech innovator on the CES show floor. ArvyaX Technologies: Robotics and Pseudo-Reality ArvyaX Technologies, founded by Shalabh Bhatnagar, showcased its robotics and pseudo-reality solutions at CES’s Eureka Park — an innovation zone dedicated to emerging startups. The Bhopal-based firm has developed technologies that blend digital and physical environments, targeting enterprise sectors such as industrial training, simulation and collaborative experiences. Shalabh Bhatnagar described participating at CES as a moment of pride, emphasising that ArvyaX’s innovations were both made and innovated in India, reflecting the nation’s rising capabilities in robotics and immersive technologies. Sona Comstar: Automotive Technology and EV Systems The automotive technology company Sona Comstar was another Indian participant at CES 2026, presenting its advanced electric vehicle (EV) components and systems. With a strong focus on R&D in high-power density EV motors, differential assemblies and lightweight drivetrain systems, Sona Comstar’s technology underscores India’s potential in automotive core technology development and global mobility solutions. The company’s products cater to modern EV performance requirements and highlight a broader shift toward electrification and smart mobility. Zoondia and Industry Collaborations In addition to standalone startups, Indian participation included Zoondia, a global technology partner offering enterprise solutions and services. Though not a startup in the strictest sense, Zoondia’s presence further reflects the breadth of Indian engagement at CES, spanning early-stage innovation to established tech services with global delivery capabilities. The Significance of Indian Participation Executives at CES 2026 noted that India’s presence was broader and deeper than in previous years, building on momentum from the first dedicated Indian pavilion introduced on the CES show floor in 2024. This year’s participation spanned startups, industry bodies such as the CMAI Association of India, and firms showcasing products that compete with global innovations rather than just representing emerging market offerings. Industry observers have highlighted several key implications of India’s growing CES footprint: Global Visibility: Participation at CES elevates Indian startups to international buyers, investors and collaborators, helping them secure partnerships, pilot projects and market entry opportunities. Innovation Credibility: Demonstrating products at a major global venue signals maturity and readiness to compete on performance and design quality. Ecosystem Confidence: The increasing number of Indian participants reflects confidence among founders and investors in showcasing innovations on a global stage. Cross-Sector Representation: Startups at CES 2026 represented health tech, wearables, robotics and automotive systems, indicating that India’s startup ecosystem is diversifying beyond software into deep tech and hardware innovation. What This Means for India’s Startup Ecosystem The rising participation of Indian startups at CES 2026 comes at a time when the country’s broader startup ecosystem is experiencing structural shifts. India is now recognised as one of the largest startup ecosystems globally, with a growing emphasis on deep tech, AI, robotics and hardware innovation rather than only digital services. Initiatives such as startup support missions, increased R&D investment and industry collaborations are catalysing this transformation, enabling more Indian founders to engage in global innovation discourse and market expansion. Indian founders and CEOs attending CES emphasised that events like CES are not merely showcases but strategic platforms for networking, validation, investment engagement and collaboration, helping elevate India’s technology brands to global audiences and potential customers. Looking Forward As CES continues to be a
India’s Best Restaurants Revealed at Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025
FOOD India’s Best Restaurants Revealed at Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025 Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:13 pm New Delhi / Mumbai: The Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025, powered by Visa, has unveiled its definitive list of India’s top 50 restaurants, spotlighting the culinary creativity, diversity and evolution of the nation’s dining landscape. Now in its sixth edition, the awards have become a trusted barometer of excellence in Indian gastronomy, celebrating chefs, restaurateurs and mixologists who are shaping the way the country eats and drinks today. Dominating the list once again, Mumbai claimed the largest share with 13 restaurants featured among the top 50, including the top three positions. Headlining the list at No. 1 is The Table, a restaurant renowned for its imaginative global cuisine and vibrant atmosphere that blends fine dining with approachability. Close behind at No. 2 is Masque, a Relais & Châteaux member known for its boundary-pushing tasting menus crafted from locally foraged and seasonal ingredients. At No. 3, Papa’s continues to captivate diners with its playful, avant-garde culinary experiences. Mumbai’s strong showing reflects how the city’s restaurant scene continues to evolve, blending international influences with deeply local sensibilities. From classics like The Bombay Canteen, which reimagines Indian staples with bold twists, to Izumi Bandra, which pioneered Japanese fine dining in the city, Mumbai’s offerings span a spectrum of tastes and styles. Bengaluru and Delhi NCR each secured nine entries on the list, demonstrating the strength and diversity of their dining cultures. Bengaluru’s contributions range from farm-to-table experimentation to elegant Italian and contemporary global fare, while Delhi’s scene continues to balance heritage and modernity across its vibrant restaurant landscape. Goa also made a strong impression with eight restaurants, reflecting the region’s growing reputation for beachside and fusion dining. Chennai and its surroundings contributed five notable establishments, and historic food cities like Kolkata added three, with other entries emerging from destinations including Kasauli, Jaipur and Shillong, signalling that culinary excellence is spreading beyond India’s major metropolitan centres. The selection process for the Top Restaurant Awards is rigorous and highly respected. A 100-member jury, comprising food critics, writers, chefs, bartenders, artists and industry tastemakers, evaluates restaurants through a multi-phase voting system, with advisory support from Deloitte. This ensures a well-rounded and credible ranking that reflects both industry insight and regional diversity. Winning a place on the top 50 list is seen as a career milestone by many restaurateurs. For some smaller or independent establishments, the recognition has not only elevated their profile but also drawn national and international attention to their culinary philosophies and regional flavours. The Condé Nast Traveller Top Restaurant Awards also serve as a snapshot of broader gastronomic trends in India. While established dining giants hold their esteem, the recognition of new and emerging venues underscores the dynamic nature of India’s food scene. According to a recent Condé Nast Traveller feature, a range of new restaurants opening in 2025 are already gaining traction and may shape next year’s conversations in Indian dining. As India’s culinary culture continues to diversify and mature, these awards underscore both the depth of local talent and the appetite for experiences that marry innovation with heritage. With cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi and Goa leading the way, the 2025 ranking paints a picture of a vibrant, evolving gastronomic landscape that’s gaining ground on the global food map. Courtesy: @/Conde Nast Traveller India About the Author Food Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Alaknanda: Indian Astronomers Discover a Milky Way–Like Galaxy from the Universe’s Youth
SCIENCE Alaknanda: Indian Astronomers Discover a Milky Way–Like Galaxy from the Universe’s Youth Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:07 pm Indian astronomers have made a discovery that could rewrite prevailing theories of galaxy formation, after identifying a massive, well-structured spiral galaxy dating back nearly 12 billion years. Named Alaknanda, after the Himalayan river, the galaxy was observed when the Universe was only about 1.5 billion years old, just 10% of its current age of 13.8 billion years. The discovery was made using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) by Rashi Jain, a PhD researcher at the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Pune, under the supervision of Professor Yogesh Wadadekar. Their findings were published in the prestigious European journal Astronomy and Astrophysics in November. What makes Alaknanda extraordinary is its structure. According to current models, galaxies that formed so soon after the Big Bang were expected to be small, irregular, and chaotic, still assembling their mass through violent mergers. Instead, Alaknanda appears as a fully formed spiral galaxy, complete with a central bulge and two symmetric spiral arms, remarkably similar to the Milky Way. Ms Jain discovered the galaxy while analysing nearly 70,000 objects captured by JWST. “There was only one grand-design spiral galaxy in the entire dataset,” she said. Spanning around 30,000 light-years, Alaknanda shows classic spiral features, including a distinctive “beads-on-a-string” pattern, clusters of stars aligned along its spiral arms, commonly seen in nearby mature galaxies. Professor Wadadekar admitted his initial reaction was disbelief. “It’s astonishing how such a large galaxy with spiral arms could have existed just 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang,” he said. Scientists estimate that Alaknanda had already formed nearly 10 billion times the mass of the Sun in stars, while also developing a stable rotating disc, an achievement that should have taken much longer according to existing cosmic timelines. The implications of this discovery are significant. It suggests that some galaxies in the early Universe evolved far more rapidly and efficiently than previously thought. The presence of such an organised structure so early challenges assumptions about the pace of star formation, the role of dark matter, and the mechanisms that lead to spiral arm formation. For Indian astronomy, the finding marks a major milestone, showcasing the country’s growing role in cutting-edge space research enabled by global observatories like JWST. For cosmology as a whole, Alaknanda opens new questions about how order emerged so quickly from the apparent chaos of the early Universe, and whether other such hidden spirals are waiting to be found. About the Author Science Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Ahmedabad To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games: Hosting Rights Confirmed
SPORTS Ahmedabad To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games: Hosting Rights Confirmed Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:00 pm Ahmedabad / New Delhi: In a historic moment for Indian sport and global multi-sport events, Ahmedabad has been formally confirmed as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking the centenary edition of the Games and a significant milestone in India’s sporting ambitions. The decision was ratified at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow, where delegates from 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories voted in favour of India’s bid. This will be the second time India hosts the Commonwealth Games after the 2010 edition in Delhi and the first time for the centenary Games, celebrating 100 years since the inaugural event in Hamilton, Canada in 1930. Ahmedabad’s selection over competing bids, including Nigeria’s Abuja, reflects strong confidence in India’s capacity to deliver a world-class edition of the Games. The 2030 Commonwealth Games, formally known as the XXIV Commonwealth Games, are scheduled to take place in October 2030 across Ahmedabad and surrounding areas, anchored by a cluster of world-class venues. The iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket arena, will host the opening and closing ceremonies, while the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave (SVPSE) and the Naranpura Sports Complex are being developed to stage multiple competitions. Organisers have outlined a sports programme featuring approximately 15–17 disciplines, significantly expanded from the 10 sports at the preceding 2026 Games in Glasgow. Confirmed and proposed disciplines include athletics, para-athletics, swimming, para-swimming, table tennis and para table tennis, bowls and para bowls, weightlifting, para powerlifting, artistic gymnastics, netball, boxing, and more. Hosts may also propose up to two additional sports, including T20 cricket, which has been discussed as a potential inclusion. Infrastructure, Legacy and Economic Impact Preparations are already gathering momentum. Key infrastructure projects, including the SVP Sports Enclave and Police Academy Sports Hub, are slated for completion by late 2028 or early 2029, supported by secured funding and a detailed delivery timeline. These complexes will house arenas, aquatic centres, training facilities, athlete villages and more, forming the backbone of a sustainable, long-term sports ecosystem for Ahmedabad and the state of Gujarat. Beyond competition venues, the Games are spurring upgrades to transport, accommodation and urban infrastructure. Ahmedabad’s airport expansion, surge in hotel development, and public transit improvements align with plans to create a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the 2030 event. Officials project the Games will also generate significant economic opportunities, including thousands of jobs, increased tourism, and heightened global visibility for India as a destination for major sporting events. From Commonwealth to Olympic Horizon Hosting the centenary Games is seen not just as a sporting celebration but as a strategic leap toward India’s broader global sports ambitions, including a potential bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics. Commonwealth Sport President Dr. Donald Rukare described Ahmedabad’s selection as ushering in “a new golden era” for the Games, highlighting India’s “scale, youth, ambition, rich culture, and enormous sporting passion.” India’s successful bid reflects decades of investment in sport and infrastructure, signalling a readiness to host even larger multi-sport spectacles in the future. With its rich cultural heritage, enthusiastic sports fans and rapidly developing facilities, Ahmedabad 2030 is poised to be a defining moment not just for the Commonwealth Games, but for India’s place on the world sporting map. About the Author Sports Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat – Episode: 130th
GOVERNMENT PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat – Episode: 130th Newsyaar January 25, 2026 6:15 pm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehO3BjjTQgM&t=28s Video credit: YT@/NaMo My dear countrymen, Namaskar. This is the first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of the year 2026. Tomorrow, on the 26th of January, we shall all celebrate our Republic Day. Our Constitution came into effect on this very day. This day; the 26th of January, gives us an opportunity to pay homage to the founding fathers of our Constitution. Today, the 25th of January, is also a very significant day. Today is National Voter’s Day… Matadata Diwas. A voter is the soul of democracy. Friends, Usually, when someone turns 18, becomes a voter, it is considered a normal milestone in life. However, this occasion is actually a major milestone in any Indian’s life. Therefore, it is very important that we celebrate becoming a voter in our country. Just as we wish and celebrate birthdays… similarly, whenever a young person becomes a voter for the first time, the entire neighbourhood, village, or city should come together to congratulate them and distribute sweets. That would raise awareness about voting and strengthen the feeling of how important it is to be a voter. Friends, I would like to express my deep appreciation to all those people in the country who are involved in the electoral process and work at the grassroots level to keep our democracy vibrant. Today, on ‘Voter’s Day’, I would once again urge my young friends to register themselves as voters upon turning 18. This will fulfil the sense of duty that the Constitution expects of every citizen and will also strengthen India’s democracy. My dear countrymen, These days I am seeing an interesting trend on social media. People are reliving their memories of the year 2016. In the same spirit, today I too would like to share one of my memories with you. Ten years ago, in January 2016, we embarked upon an ambitious journey. We had realised then, that even if it were a small one, it was very important for the future of the country for the young generation. At that time, some people could not understand what it was all about, after all! Friends, the journey I am referring to is the journey of Start-up India. The heroes of this amazing journey are our young friends. The innovations they came up with by stepping out of their comfort zones are being recorded in history. Friends, Today India has turned into the third largest Start-ups ecosystem in the world. These Start-ups are out of the box; they are working in sectors that were unimaginable even 10 years ago. AI, Space, Nuclear Energy, Semiconductors, Mobility, Green Hydrogen, Biotechnology… you name it and you’ll find one Indian Start-up or the other working in that sector. I salute all my young friends who are associated with one Start-up or the other or want to start one of their own. Friends, Today through ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I want to urge my countrymen; especially the youth associated with industry and Start-ups. India’s economy is progressing rapidly. The world is watching India. At such a juncture, we all shoulder a huge responsibility. That responsibility is to emphasize on quality. The era of ‘it just happens… it works… it will go through somehow’ is over. Come, let us prioritize quality with all our might this year. Let our only mantra be quality, quality and only quality. Better quality today than what it was yesterday. Let us resolve to improve the quality of whatever we manufacture. Be it our textiles, technology or electronics… even packaging; the connotation of an Indian product should become – ‘top quality’. Come, let us make excellence our benchmark. Let us resolve that there will be no laxity on quality, nor will there be any compromise on quality. And I had expressed from Red Fort – ‘Zero Defect Zero Effect’. Only by doing this shall we be able to accelerate the journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’. My dear countrymen, The people of our country are very innovative. Seeking solutions to problems is part of our countrymen’s nature. Some do this through start-ups; while others try to find a solution through the collective strength of society. One such effort has emerged in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. The People there have lent life anew to the Tamsa River that flows through this place. The Tamsa is not just a river; it’s a Live continuum of our cultural and spiritual heritage. This river, which crosses Ayodhya and merges with the Ganga, was once the axis of life for the people of this region. However, on account of pollution, its uninterrupted flow was obstructed. Silt, garbage and filth had blocked the flow of this river. After that, the people here started a campaign to give it a new lease of life. The river was cleaned, and shady, fruit-bearing trees were planted along its banks. Local people engaged themselves at the task with a sense of duty… and through everyone’s efforts, the river was revived. Friends, A similar endeavour of public participation has also been witnessed in Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh. This is a region that has been grappling with a severe drought. The soil here is red and sandy, which is why people face water shortages. Many areas here do not receive rain over long periods. People sometimes even compare Anantapur to a desert drought.Friends, to address this problem, locals resolved to clean the reservoirs. After that, with the support of the administration, the ‘Ananta Neeru Sanrakshanam Project’ was launched. Under this effort, more than 10 reservoirs have been revived. These reservoirs are filling with water now. Simultaneously, more than 7,000 trees have been planted. This means that along with water conservation, the green cover in Anantapur has also increased. Children now, can also enjoy swimming here. In a way, the entire ecosystem here has been revitalized. Friends, Whether
Modi Calls Nitin Nabin His ‘Boss’ as New BJP President Takes Charge
POLITICS Modi Calls Nitin Nabin His ‘Boss’ as New BJP President Takes Charge Newsyaar January 23, 2026 7:58 pm New Delhi: In a moment rich with symbolism and political messaging, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday formally welcomed Nitin Nabin as the new national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), declaring that in party matters, the newly appointed chief would be his “boss”. The remark, made at a felicitation event on January 20, 2026, with the BJP’s emphasis on organisational discipline and a clear separation between the party and the government. Nitin Nabin, 45, officially assumed charge in the presence of senior party leaders and Prime Minister Modi, marking the beginning of a new phase for the BJP’s organisational leadership. Addressing party workers, Modi said he had presented an account of his own work to the new president, adding with a touch of humour that he now awaited Nabin’s “guidance” and confidential report. “When it comes to party matters, honourable Nitin Nabin ji is my boss. I am a worker,” Modi said, drawing applause from the audience. The Prime Minister had made a similar statement in 2019 alongside then BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating a long-standing message within the party that the organisation functions independently of the government. Highlighting Nabin’s generational outlook, Modi pointed to the new president’s ability to bridge tradition and modernity. He remarked that while he himself grew up listening to news on the radio, Nabin represents a generation comfortable with technology and artificial intelligence, an implicit nod to the BJP’s evolving political strategies in a digital age. Nitin Nabin was officially declared the BJP national president on January 19, following the completion of an extensive internal organisational election process. According to party sources, 37 nominations were filed in his support, all of which were found valid. While the event largely focused on organisational unity, Modi also touched upon broader political issues. He reiterated the BJP’s position on national security, stating that infiltrators posed a serious threat to the country and must be identified and deported. He stressed the importance of learning from the mistakes of other political parties, a veiled reference to the Congress, and urged BJP workers to remain disciplined and connected to grassroots concerns. As Nitin Nabin steps into his new role, he faces the challenge of steering the BJP through complex electoral terrain and internal expectations. His relatively young age and organisational mandate signal a leadership style that blends experience with adaptability, qualities the party believes are essential for navigating the evolving political landscape. The transition, marked by Modi’s symbolic deference, reinforces the BJP’s core message: strong leadership thrives on organisational clarity, collective responsibility, and disciplined separation between party and power. About the Author Politics Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment