Lineman Diwas was celebrated in Delhi to honor the dedication of linemen and ground staff. Around 250 participants attended the event. A safety pledge was administered. Ministers and officials acknowledged their vital role in maintaining uninterrupted power supply. Modern technologies and safety practices were discussed. Awards were given to high-performing discoms and linemen.
Prime Minister Modi lauded Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla ahead of an opposition no-confidence motion, praising his impartiality and ability to manage "arrogant and unruly" members. Birla's recent rulings, particularly disallowing a quote from a former Army chief, had sparked significant opposition protests and led to the removal notice.
In Bandipora, Kashmir, Irfan Ahmad Lone, a visually impaired youth, has achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the UPSC civil services exams with a rank of 957. Despite facing severe vision loss in childhood due to accidents, Irfan pursued his education with unwavering determination, graduating from JNU and working before his civil services success.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized self-reliance as crucial for navigating global uncertainty, citing supply chain realignments and rising maritime activities. He highlighted India's growing domestic defence production, which surpassed Rs 1.5 lakh crore in FY24-25, with exports reaching Rs 24,000 crore. Singh also stressed the importance of technological dynamism and private sector participation in achieving defence 'atmanirbharta'.
The National Commission for Women is launching nationwide 'Mahila Jan Sunwais' in 500 districts across 25 states until March 14. This initiative aims to resolve approximately 15,000 complaints, with a focus on domestic violence and dowry harassment. NCW chief Vijaya Rahatkar will lead hearings in five states lacking commission chairpersons, bringing support directly to women in distress.
The highway developers said they anticipated an increase in transportation cost on the back of increase in diesel price and rising input material costs are expected to escalate transportation expenses. They also suggested NHAI to reduce the price indexation lag from three months to one month to better reflect real-time market conditions and prevent under-compensation to contractors.
Jammu and Kashmir authorities are coordinating with the Centre to bring back students, primarily medical students, stranded in Iran. Officials are facilitating peaceful expressions of condolences while urging against exploiting the situation. Internet services have been restricted in Kashmir ahead of planned protests. Efforts are underway to evacuate students to safer locations within Iran before flying them home.
A 16th-century bronze statue of Saint Tirumankai Alvar, taken from a Tamil Nadu temple, is returning to India from the UK. Acquired by the Ashmolean Museum in 1967, its provenance became questionable after a 2019 discovery. Following an investigation and a formal claim by India, the museum has agreed to its repatriation, highlighting a commitment to ethical collections.