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The strongest regional parties came up with a big decision on January 25. One after the other, two parties, TMC and AAP, announced their withdrawal from the I.N.D.I.A. Bloc. The Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) is a political alliance formed on July 18, 2023. 28 political parties in India came together to form this alliance with the main aim of defeating the NDA government led by the BJP in the 2024 general elections. This political alliance is led by the INC (Indian National Congress), and their ideology revolves around principles like inclusiveness, social justice, and development. So far, five meetings have been held by the alliance to discuss matters like unity, seat sharing, and others in different states in India. The big decision of TMC (Trinamool Congress) to come out of the I.N.D.I.A. Bloc geared attention yesterday after CM of West Bengal Mamatha Banerjee announced it. Didi stated that West Bengal would go alone in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and said that Congress can contest 300 seats and leave the rest to the regional parties. This decision came after unjustified demands from the bloc and delays in seat-sharing talks. Being a part of the bloc, she said that she was not informed about the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, where Rahul Gandhi comes to West Bengal. Rahul Gandhi responded to this in a press conference and said that Mamathaji is a big leader and an important pillar of the bloc. The talks are ongoing, and all parties will cooperate to defeat the BJP. The second startle to bloc came after AAP (Aam Admi Party) wanted to withdraw from the political alliance I.N.D.I.A. While talking to the media in Chandigarh, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said that they would not go along with the alliance, and this decision of Punjab switching from the alliance was accepted by Party Leader Aravind Kejriwal. This is because of issues with seat sharing in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Mann said that they will win all 13 seats in Punjab in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024. The Punjab Congress objected, saying that there are many corruption cases registered by Mann against Congress leaders. Mallikarjun Kharge, congress president, said that all the concerns were taken into consideration and we will work on them BJP Comments: After seeing the split in the bloc, the BJP commented that the alliance is one of confusion and corruption. It is also said that conflicts are seen everywhere now and then. They didn't decide their flag, agenda, or any policy till now, even after the completion of five meetings. A BJP spokesperson urged that people elect the one who has a mission but not confusion.

January 24 commemorates National Girl Child Day. The Ministry of Women and Child Development initiated this programme in 2008 and celebrates it every year by announcing an annual theme. This year, the Ministry of Women and Child Development requested all states and UT's to conduct a 5-day campaign for public engagement at the local level. This 5-day campaign includes Gramma Sabha and Mahila Sabha on CSR (Child Sex Ratio), door-to-door programmes, workshops on menstrual hygiene and supplying hygiene kits, a special plantation drive, and others. On this day, the nation celebrates by conducting campaigns, awareness programmes on girl rights, schemes for girl children, and others. PM Narendra Modi and many other prominent persons tweeted on X, wishing National Girl Child Day. Different states in the country are celebrating National Girl Child Day. All these celebrations aim at bringing awareness in society about girl children and encouraging them. Different states that are celebrating National Girl Child Day include: NEW DELHI: The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) is organizing a national-level event in Delhi. The theme of the event is "Mere Viksit Bharat Ka Sapna," which is to bring out the creativity in the children from Child Care Institutions (CCI). The Union Minister of WCD, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, will attend the event to encourage and felicitate the children. GUJARAT: The Gujarat Assembly made special arrangements to celebrate National Girl Child Day. To encourage women's participation in politics and to raise awareness, girls in the state are going to run assembly for one day, i.e., on January 24th, as stated in an official release. The Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel, is going to participate in this event. TELANGANA: According to a release from Hyderabad Police, a special awareness campaign was conducted at various schools on January 23. This programme is initiated by the Assistant Commissioner of Police and Inspector of Police She Teams, along with 3 She Teams Hyderabad, under the guidance of the joint Commissioner of Police Crimes, SIT, and Deputy Commissioner of Policewomen Safety Wing. A productive interaction session took place to discuss the challenges faced by girl children. ODISHA: The health department of the Odisha government in Bhubaneswar is celebrating National Girl Child Day by raising awareness about girl-child empowerment and gender equality. ANDHRA PRADESH: On the occasion of National Girl Child Day, the collector in charge of Annamaya district, Farman Ahmed Khan, organized a rally at Rayachoti DIET School. At this event, he highlighted the constitutional rights of girls and the importance of gender equality. Nagaland: On January 22, a district in Nagaland, Longleng, organized a marathon race with the theme ‘I CAME, I RAN, I FINISH'. Five girl students and a teacher in charge from each school in Longleng participated in this event. This event is organized by the District Administration and the District Hub for the Empowerment of Women. ASSAM: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma greeted the people of Assam through X. He expressed that ‘being a father and mama to all the young girls in Assam, he strongly believes in creating equal opportunities for all the girls to grow and flourish’.

The Prince of Patriots, Subash Chandra Bose, made a remarkable contribution to the history of independent India. From resigning Indian civil services to forming the Indian national army, Bose made his place in the pages of Indian history. He was famously known for his slogans ‘Delhi Chalo', 'tum mujhe khoon do, main tumhe azadi doonga (You give me blood, I will give you freedom)”. Subash Chandra Bose was born in Cuttack, Orissa on January 23, 1897. For actively participating in nationalist activities, he was expelled from the presidency college, and he then joined the Scottish Churches College for his graduation. Later, he was sent to the University of Cambridge in England for the preparation of civil services. He cleared the exam in 1920 and worked for one year. Then he decided to resign his job and come to India to fight for its independence. Indian National Congress: After returning from England, Bose joined INC (the Indian National Congress). During this time, Mahatma Gandhi asked Bose to meet Chittaranjan Das. In the very first meeting, he accepted him as his political guru. In 1927, he started a newspaper called ‘Swaraj’. Along with serving in INC, Bose became commandant of Bengal Congress volunteers. He then worked with Jawaharlal Nehru for independence. During his tenure at INC, he became president twice, in 1938 and 1939, at the Haripur and Tripuri sessions, respectively. Gandhi was not in favor of the reelection of Bose in the 1939 session, but Bose won with a majority. Due to the differences raised in the party, he resigned from the role of president in 1939. This paved the way for the formation of AIFB, i.e., the All-India Forward Bloc, in 1939. All India Forward Bloc: Being a person in favor of leftist views, he formed the All-India Forward Bloc, a faction within the congress. The main aim is to bring all the radical objects together in the Congress party and to get major support from his home state of Bengal. But due to multiple splits and the exodus of famous people from the party, the Forward Bloc fell. Subash Chandra Bose Formed Indian National Army: The first Indian National Army was formed by Mohan Singh, a British-Indian officer. This army was formed by the Japanese government during the Second World War, with the Indian prisoners captured during the war. Later, this collapsed due to differences between the Japanese government and Mohan Singh. During this time, Subash Chandra Bose escaped from India and went to Germany. In Germany, he was titled “Netaji” in 1942 by both German and Indian officials. He later went to Singapore in 1943. Then he formed INA, which is also known as Azad Hind Fauj, on the framework given by Rash Behari Bose in 1943. Indian prisoners in Japan were formed as a base for the INA. They were recruited by INA. This army played a main role in attacking British forces from the eastern side of undivided India. PARAKRAM DIWAS: In 2021, India started celebrating Parakram Diwas on the birth anniversary of Subash Chandra Bose. This year, 2024, PM Narendra Modi is going to launch ‘Bharath Parv’ at Red Fort during the celebrations of Parakram Diwas. Bharath Parv is a nine-day event from January 23 to January 31 to showcase the different cultures and diversities of India. This programme is organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the National School of Drama (NSD), Sahitya Academy, and the National Archives of India. It features 26 ministries and departments. The main highlights of the programme are citizen-centric initiatives, Vocal for Local, and diverse tourist attractions. This programme serves as a great opportunity for people worldwide to showcase their talents and learn more about India.

The word 'pran-pratishtha' is gaining a lot of momentum around the internet on the occasion of the consecration ceremony of the Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya. But what is 'pran-pratishtha'? By breaking down the word 'pran-pratishtha', we can understand that Pran means life and Prathistha means consecration. One of the most common forms of Prathistha (consecration) is done by using mantras, rituals, and others. These kinds of consecrations need the right kind of maintenance, which means everyday rituals and poojas. Prathistha is different from pran-pratishtha. According to Sadguru, Pran-Prathistha means consecration done through life energies. Once it is established, it is forever. In the process of pran-pratishtha, we invite Daivik forces( positive energies) into the god's idol, says traditions, beliefs, and scriptures. It is believed that after the pran-pratishtha ceremony, life is infused in the idol, so the eyes of the idol are unveiled. January 22nd is selected for the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram Mandir in Ayodhya because of the auspiciousness of the day. This day serves Dwadashi Thithi, which is linked to one of the avatars of Lord Rama, i.e., the Vishnu avatar. The ceremony takes place at 12:20 p.m. and is performed by a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit. The world is with Ayodhya: Jai Shri Ram chants are everywhere in the air around the world. Not only Ayodhya is celebrating the pran-pratishtha ceremony, but the whole world is immersed in devotion and celebrating it. In different parts of the world, different programmes are taking place. As the central government of India declared a half-day holiday on January 22, a few states and UT's also planned to give a holiday. These include Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Odisha, Assam, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh. No such holiday is declared in five southern states of the country: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The latest buzz that is flaunting on social media platforms is a recreation of the song 'Ram Aayenge To Angana Sajaungi' in the voice of Lata Mangeshkar. Few netizens are in the shoes of criticism, while few are enjoying the AI creativity. Explore additional insights on the Ram Mandir and Ayodhya in our related articles section -The first photo of Ram Lalla idol is here! Happenings in Ayodhya

India is getting ready for its 75th Republic Day celebrations on January 26. Rehearsal sessions for the big day in the chilly weather of Delhi shows  determination for perfection. As a ritualistic pattern, every year India invites the head of a foreign state as a guest of honor. This year, Immanuel Macron is on the list, and preparations for the guest are underway. France is the only country to receive the highest Guest of Honours so far. This year, it is even more special as India and France commemorate their silver jubilee of strategic partnership. The PMO stated that a contingent of 241 members of the tri-service Indian armed forces, led by a military band, will participate in the parade as a gesture towards marking 25 years of partnership. On Republic Day Eve, a contingent and French Rafale jets will participate in the parade on Karthavya Path. Immanuel Macron's, along with his wife Brigitte Macron, two-day visit to India covers Jaipur on January 25 and Delhi on January 26. India and France share a vibrant relationship and have close ties in different categories of diplomacy. The main areas of cooperation include education, space, defence, security, trade, cultural exchange, and energy. Along with this, they also extended their partnership in areas like digitization, cybersecurity, maritime security, sustainable development, counter-terrorism, climate change, and others. 2023 was an outstanding year for France-India relations. PM Narendra Modi was invited as a guest of honour for Bastille Day (the national day of France). During this visit, they adopted a roadmap for the next 25 years, 'Horizon 2047'. The Indo-Pacific component plays a major role in bringing both countries together. Major cooperation was seen in the areas of security, sovereignty, global issues, the planet, and others. India and France are expected to cooperate in the co-development and co-production of advanced defence technologies, which also includes the benefits of third countries. During the two-day visit of the macron to India on Republic Day, many agreements and MOUs were on the agenda, which are yet to be finalized. A few of them include the ISRO-CNES exploration of Mars and Venus, France's support for the Gaganyaan programme, maritime monitoring, bilateral space cooperation, and others. A road show is expected during his visit. India and France have shared an enduring relationship over the years. India never fails to disappoint its supporting hand, which reflects in the relations between India and France. France, being a natural ally of India, has always extended its support to India to develop in different areas. From 1998 to now, India and France have set a great example for mutual growth and mutual understanding for the world.

It's been 12 years, and we're still fighting for justice. The Bilkis Bano case had many turnouts.  On January 8th, the SC rejected the remission granted by the Gujarat government and also stated that the state government has no power to apply the remission policy in this case. The Supreme Court also ordered the 11 convicts to surrender within two weeks. Petitions were filed by the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case on Thursday for an extension of time to surrender. They filed petitions by stating different reasons, like ill-health, a child's marriage, harvesting, and family responsibilities. A few of them asked for a 4-week time extension, and others asked for a 6-week time extension. SC agreed to take petitions and stated that the hearing would be on Friday. In the latest hearing on the case, the SC rejected all the petitions filed by the convicts. SC bench members BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan stated that all the petitions lacked merit. The court ordered that 'there is no reason to allow the extension of time. All applications are dismissed'. The SC ordered all 11 convicts to return to jail by Sunday, January 21st. To know more about Bilkis Bano case, click here  Bilkis Bano case: 3 convicts filed petition for the extension of time to surrender

Ayodhya is all set to be in divine and spiritual mode. A visual extravaganza, the ram Lalla (infant form of ram) idol, is placed in the sanctum sanctorum by covering the face with a veil on Thursday. The ram Lalla idol was sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, a Mysuru resident. His family has had a history of sculpting idols for five generations. Ayodhya Ram Temple Trust selected him for sculpting the Ram Lalla idol, which is placed in 'Aasan' in 'Garbha Griha' (sanctum sanctorum).The idol stands at a towering height 51 inch tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. This idol represents a 5-year-old Rama standing on a lotus, which is sculpted on the same block of stone. This idol was placed in the sanctum sanctorum at 12:45 p.m. on Thursday, sources said. Ram Mandir will be open for devotees from January 23. There are daily rituals going on in Ayodhya Ram Mandir starting from January 16th to January 21st. 16th January: Prayaschita and Karmakuti Poojan, 17th January: Parisar Pravesh of the Murti, 18th January (evening): Teerth Poojan, Jal Yatra, and Gandhadhivas, 19th January (morning): Aushadhadhivas, Kesaradhivas, Ghritadhivas, 19th January (evening): Dhanyadhivas, 20th January (morning): Sharkaradhivas, Phaladhivas, 20th January (evening): Pushpadhivas, 21st January (morning): Madhyadhivas, 21st January (evening): Shaiyadhivas. The 'pran-pratishtha' ceremony is to take place on January 22nd, which is a grand event for Hindus across the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend this ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram temple. Many pujas and rituals will be performed by a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit. Celebrities and known personalities were invited to the ceremony. High security in Ayodhya. The Uttar Pradesh government deployed anti-terrorist squad commandos. Artificial intelligence-based anti-mine drones were in use for 360-degree security coverage. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) exclusively launched a webpage for Ayodhya weather. It provides information about the weather in and around Ayodhya. On the ceremony of 'Pran Prathistha' i.e., January 22nd, the central government declared a half-day holiday for all central government officials. According to the circular, the Department of Personnel and Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions has announced that all Central Government offices, Central Institutions, and Central Industrial Establishments throughout the country will be closed for a half day until 02:30 pm.

In the historical Bilkis Bano case, SC asked 11 convicts to surrender within 2 weeks on January 8th. But three convicts filed a petition asking for an extension of the time to surrender on Thursday. These three people filed the petition by stating their reasons on January 18th, Thursday. The Gujarat riots took place in 2002 after the Sabarmati train carrying karsevaks was burned in Godhra. In this incident, 59 Karsevaks were killed. In order to escape from the riots, five-month-old pregnant Bilkis Bano, along with her 3-year-old daughter and 15 family members, fled from her village of Randhikpur. On March 3, 2002, a group of 20–30 people attacked the Bilkis family and killed eight of them. Eleven people from the mob raped and assaulted Bilkis, her mother, and other women. Her three-year-old daughter was killed by the attackers. After gaining consciousness, Bilkis Bano filed a case against 11 convicts—Jaswant Nai, Govind Bhai Nai, Shailesh Bhatt, Radhyesham Shah, Bipin Chandra Joshi, Kesarbhai Vohania, Pradeep Mordhiya, Bakabhai Vohania, Rajubhai Soni, Mitesh Bhatt, and Ramesh Chandana—at Limkheda police station. These convicts were sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and rape on January 21, 2008, by a special judge in Mumbai. On last year's Independence Day, August 15, 2023, the Gujarat High Court applied its remission policy to release 11 convicts in the case. Many petitions were filed in opposition to the early release of the convicts. After hearing petitions, the SC cancelled the Gujarat government's decision by saying the orders were stereotyped and passed without application of mind. On January 8th, SC passed orders stating that 11 convicts in the case should surrender within two weeks. The two-week period expires on January 21st. On Thursday, January 18, three convicts came forward before a bench of Justices B. V. Nagarathana and Sanjay Karol to seek an extension of time to surrender and asked the Registry to place the plea before the CJI. Three people mentioned three different reasons for seeking time for surrender. Govind Bhai Nai stated about his ill-health that he undergone an angiography and is yet to undergo another operation for the treatment of ‘hemorrhoids’ and also mentioned his aged parents who are dependent on him, the Bar and Bench report said. He asked for four weeks of time to surrender. Ramesh Rupabhai Chandana stated that he has a son to get married and wanted to fulfil his duty as a father before surrendering. Chandana stated in his petition for a six-week time extension. Mitesh Bhat cited that his field is ready for harvest and would like to surrender after completing the process. He asked for six weeks of time. All these pleas were submitted before the SC, and it agreed to hear them on January 19, Friday.

The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 beckons innovators and thought leaders to the heart of India's Silicon Valley, Bengaluru, setting the stage for a symposium where technology's future is unveiled. As the Bangalore Palace opens its gates from November 29th to December 1st, this summit emerges not merely as an event, but as a milestone in technological evolution—a catalyst for transformative ideas and groundbreaking collaborations. With the theme 'Breaking Boundaries,' the summit encapsulates the ambition to transcend the known frontiers of technology. It is a gathering that defines the summit as more than a meeting point—it is a beacon for the tech curious, a platform for the pioneers, and a crossroads for diverse paths in the tech industry. Attendees from across the globe will converge to exchange insights, challenge conventional wisdom, and shape the technological narrative of tomorrow. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, offering a deep dive into the summit's themes, sessions, and networking opportunities. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking the spark for your next venture, a tech aficionado eager to absorb wisdom from industry giants, or an investor scouting for talent and innovation, these pages aim to equip you with the knowledge to make the most of the summit's myriad offerings. Join us as we journey through the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023, where every conversation could lead to the next great discovery, and every moment is an opportunity to be part of the tech revolution. Thematic Expanse: Charting New Frontiers in Technology BTS 2023 stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation. Here, Deep Tech converges with Biotech and Startups to forge a trinity of tracks, each promising to propel industry practices into new realms. With sessions spanning from AI's Footprint across the Tech Landscape to Biotechnology for Decarbonization, attendees will witness how theoretical concepts evolve into transformative solutions, poised to address global challenges and redefine our interaction with technology. Stalwarts of Innovation: Visionaries Shaping the Future The summit's roster of speakers reads like a who's who of the tech world, featuring thought leaders whose insights have catalyzed change. These visionaries will traverse a range of topics: Quantum Computing and Advanced Research will reveal the potential to solve complex problems, while discussions on Urban Transport & Future Mobility will explore sustainable solutions for our ever-growing cities. In their words, we find the potential for new paradigms of living and working. The Nexus of Collaboration: Crafting Connections BTS 2023 is a melting pot for forging meaningful connections. The Global Innovation Alliance sessions are a highlight, providing a platform for international tech diplomacy. Attendees can engage in the India-USA Tech Conclave, a testament to the summit's role in shaping global tech policy and practice. Through structured and spontaneous networking opportunities, the summit fosters a community of collaboration. Celebrating Technological Achievements at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 The 'India Innovation Alliance Zone' and 'CEO Conclave' spotlight the local and global narratives of tech progress. Here, the Bengaluru Startup Conclave and Smart Bio Awards recognize the mavericks and trailblazers. These special programs not only celebrate achievements but also inspire the next generation of innovators and disruptors. The Innovation Marketplace: Where Possibility Meets Reality The exhibition hall at BTS 2023 is a microcosm of the future. From the latest in Healthtech and Edutech to the immersive 'Metaverse Experience Zone,' attendees can interact with the technologies reshaping our world. This is where theory meets practice, and ideas meet the market. Attendee Essentials: Your Guide to Navigating BTS 2023 This section is an essential read for every attendee. From the registration process to venue details of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023, it offers practical advice to navigate the summit. It includes accommodation and travel tips to ensure a comfortable stay and a food and dining guide to savor the local cuisine. Health and Well-being: Ensuring a Safe Summit Experience Safety is paramount at BTS 2023. Updated'health and safety protocols ensure peace of mind, allowing attendees to focus on the event's offerings. This commitment to safety underscores the summit's dedication to providing a conducive environment for all participants. Conclusion: Be Part of the Tech Evolution As the article concludes, it extends an invitation to the reader to become an active participant in the global tech dialogue. BTS 2023 is not just an event; it's a movement towards a future shaped by technology and human ingenuity.

Why Bengaluru Tech Summit is a Can't-Miss Event Discover the epicenter of innovation at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023, where the latest advancements in technology and the brightest minds in the industry converge. Scheduled from November 29th to December 1st at the iconic Bangalore Palace, BTS 2023 is more than an event—it's the future unfolding before your eyes Unraveling the Agenda: A Beacon of Innovations Embark on a journey through an event spectrum covering IT & Electronics, Deep Tech, Start-Ups, and Biotech. With multi-track conferences, international exhibitions, and exclusive sessions like the India-USA Tech Conclave, BTS 2023 is set to chart new courses in innovation Eminent Figures & Global Minds: The Voices of Tomorrow Rub shoulders with industry titans such as Shri Rishad Premji and Nobel Laureate Dr. H. Robert Horvitz. The summit will be graced by esteemed figures such as Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon'ble Chief Minister, and Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. Hear from over 400 thought leaders who will share insights that are shaping the world of technology today and tomorrow. Global Innovation Alliance: A Symphony of International Collaboration Engage with the Global Innovation Alliance Partners meeting, welcoming representatives from over 16 countries. This year, countries like Italy, Peru, and Spain join for the first time, showcasing a rich tapestry of global tech synergy​​. The India-USA Tech Conclave: A Fusion of Tech Powerhouses Witness the third edition of the India-USA Tech Conclave, aiming to bolster the tech relationship between the two nations. Anticipate discussions on AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, and more, underlining the conclave's mission to enable future innovations​​. Karnataka's Commitment to Tech: A Leader in the Global Stage Karnataka’s claim as a global tech leader is solidified by its contribution to the country's software exports and its investment in Centers of Excellence across various tech domains​​. Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023: Where Innovation Meets Experience Explore the BTS Exhibition, a showcase featuring the latest technologies from global giants and startups alike in Healthtech, Edutech, Agritech, and other burgeoning sectors​​. Looking Ahead: The Impact of BTS 2023 The summit is not just a glimpse into the future of tech but a hands-on experience of the innovations that will define our world. From the Metaverse to Web 3.0, from AI to 6G, BTS 2023 is a platform for discovery, dialogue, and development​​. Conclusion: A Call to Action for Tech Enthusiasts The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023 is a clarion call to tech enthusiasts, industry leaders, and innovators worldwide. This blog post serves as your comprehensive guide to the summit, encouraging you to be a part of this monumental event that promises to inspire and transform the global tech landscape.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother Heeraben Modi has been cremated after she died in the early hours of the morning. She was 99 years old, and had been in hospital in western Gujarat state - where she lived - since Wednesday after her health deteriorated. "A glorious century rests at the feet of God," Mr Modi tweeted on Friday morning. He reached Gujarat in the morning and lit his mother's funeral pyre. After the funeral, he attended events that had been scheduled in West Bengal state through video conferencing. The Indian prime minister often visited his mother to seek her blessings on important occasions and festivals. Her life and sacrifices had "shaped" his mind, personality and self-confidence, Mr Modi wrote in his blog on 18 June when Heeraben turned 99. "My Mother is as simple as she is extraordinary. Just like all mothers," he wrote. They were last seen together in public on 4 December when Mr Modi visited her house during the assembly election in Gujarat, his home state. Heeraben lived with Mr Modi's younger brother and his family. Several politicians and ministers have expressed sorrow over her death on social media.

Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has been injured in a car accident in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. The batsman has two cuts on his forehead, a ligament tear in his right knee along with other injuries, India's cricket board said in a statement. Pant, who is currently in hospital, was alone in the car when the accident occurred, police have said. Several Indian and international cricketers have tweeted, wishing the 25-year-old a speedy recovery. News channel NDTV reported that Pant was driving his Mercedes when the car hit a divider on a highway. Police officials have said he dozed off and lost control of the car. The cricketer managed to break a window and exit the vehicle before it caught fire. The Board of Control for Cricket in India said that Pant had also hurt his right wrist, ankle, toe and suffered abrasion injuries on his back. His condition is stable now. The BCCI said they were in "constant touch" with Rishabh's family and would ensure he received the best possible treatment. Several current and former cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, Shubman Gill, Jhulan Goswami and Ricky Ponting have wished Pant a speedy recovery.