The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, will address the nation 0n August 14, 2022) on the eve of the 76th Independence Day.
The address will be broadcast from 1900 hrs. on the entire national network of All India Radio (AIR) and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version. The broadcast of the address in Hindi and English on Doordarshan will be followed by a broadcast in regional languages by regional channels of Doordarshan. AIR will broadcast regional language versions at 2130 hrs. on its respective regional networks.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid homage to all those who lost their lives during Partition to mark the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;
“Today, on #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, I pay homage to all those who lost their lives during Partition and applaud the resilience as well as grit of all those who suffered during that tragic period of our history.”
Today, on #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, I pay homage to all those who lost their lives during Partition , and applaud the resilience as well as grit of all those who suffered during that tragic period of our history.
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is a yearly celebration on 14 August. It aims to remember the victims and sufferings of people during the Partition of India.
During the partition, many Indians suffered. Several families were displaced, and many people died in the partition. In order to further strengthen oneness, social harmony, and human empowerment, it aims to remove social divisions and disharmony.
15 August in Indian and World History is celebrated, observed, and remembered for various reasons.15 August is the birth anniversary of Aurobindo Ghosh, Ustad Amir Khan, Hans Kumar Tiwari, Rakhi Gulzar, and KM Beenamol.
15 August is also observed as the death anniversary of Mahadev Haribhai Desai, Chaudhary Ajit Singh, and Amarsinh Chaudhary.
Birth Anniversary
15 August in Indian history is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the following personalities:
Aurobindo Ghosh (15 August 1872 – 5 December 1950), The original name is Aurobindo Ghosh but is also known as Aurobindo. There have been many great revolutionaries and yogis in India in modern times, Aurobindo Ghosh is unique among them. Aurobindo Ghosh was a poet and Indian nationalist who propounded the philosophy of universal salvation through spiritual development. Some consider him a new addition to the Rishi tradition (saint tradition) of India. Shri Arvind claims that India is playing a constructive role in the world in this era and will continue to do so in the future also. His philosophy covers all aspects of life. He has also expressed his views on many important subjects, such as culture, nationalism, politics, socialism, etc. His works have become famous in the field of literature, especially poetry. He wrote many books example Essays on Gita (1928), The Life Divine (1940), Collected Poems and Plays (1942), The Synthesis of Yoga (1948), The Human Cycle (1949), The Ideal of Human Unity (1949), A Legend and a Symbol (1950) and On the Veda (1956). He was born on 5 August 1872 in Kolkata.
Ustad Amir Khan (15 August 1912 – 13 February 1974) was a famous Indian classical music singer. Ustad Amir Khan was awarded the Padma Bhushan in the year 1971 by the Government of India in the field of arts. Spirituality, Dhrupad, and Khayal are found in this distinctive style of the Indore Gharana. Ustad Amir Khan stunned everyone by bringing a kind of “edge” to the “exciting rhythm”. This progression was later introduced into the Sargam, tana, bol-taken, including the merukhandi organ, and finally the madhyalay or fast rhythm, Chhota khayal, or rubber Tarana. He himself has written many compositions under the name of ‘Sur Rang’. Amir Khan popularized Tarana. He used Jhumra and Ektaal in his singing, and he used to ask for a simple contract from the tabla player who gave the accompaniment. There was no princely thought or encouragement in his singing style, but there is a quietness in his style, which makes it easy to know that he was actually a Sufi until the end. Ustad Amir Khan spiritually associated himself with the family of Amir Khusrau, Ustad Amir Khan was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1967 and Padma Bhushan in 1971 for his remarkable contribution to the field of music. He was Born on 15 August 1912 in Madhya Pradesh.
Hans Kumar Tiwari (15 August 1918 – 14 July 1986) is a famous litterateur. The first achievement of his literary practice was the publication of a book called ‘Kala’ in the year 1938. This was his first attempt in the field of criticism. Apart from being a freelance writer, Tiwari was also a successful journalist and editor. In 1951, he was appointed as the Official Language Officer of the Government of Bihar. He retired while working in the same position. His primary education was done in Bengal itself in the Bengali language, then in Nanihal. Due to the burden of the family on their shoulders in adolescence, in the year 1934, the sequence of his studies was broken in the middle. He was Born on 15 August 1918 in Kolkata.
Rakhi Gulzar is a famous Indian Hindi film actress. He made cine lovers crazy with his acting in the seventies and eighties. Her childhood name was ‘Rakhi Majumdar’ which changed after marriage to ‘Rakhi Gulzar’. Rakhi got her first double role in Bollywood in 1971 in the film ‘Sharm eely’. In this film, he acted with Shashi Kapoor and Dharmendra. In 1971, he had two films ‘Lal Patthar’ and ‘Paras’, in which Rakhi played the lead role. Both these films got a lot of success and after these films, Rakhi became one of the most beautiful actresses in Bollywood. He was honoured with ‘Padma Shri’ in 2003 and Filmfare thrice and National Award twice for his outstanding contribution to films. Rakhi left her husband Gulzar after some time of marriage, due to which Rakhi had to work in the film ‘Kabhi Kabhi’ (1976) without informing Gulzar and Gulzar did not want Rakhi to work in films after marriage. Angered by this, Rakhi left Gulzar’s house forever. Although both have not divorced each other till now, definitely live separately, at that time their daughter Meghna was only one year old. She was Born on 15 August 1947 in Kolkata.
KM Beenamol is a famous female athlete from India who has brought laurels to the country by receiving several awards in running. His full name is ‘Kalyathusukhi Mathews’. His name came into the limelight when he won two gold and one silver medal in the Busan Asian Games to be held in October 2002. Beenamol won the gold medal in the 800 meters race. Apart from this, he also won a gold medal in the relay race of 400 meters. In the 4×400 meter race, Been Amol brought glory to the sports world by winning a silver medal. He was given the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Khel Award’ for the year 2002-2003 and was awarded the ‘Padma Shri’ in 2004. She was Born on 15 August 1975 in Kerala.
15 August in Indian history is observed as the death anniversary of the following personalities:
Mahadev Hari Bhai Desai (1 January 1892 – 15 August 1942), was a famous freedom fighter. He was a trusted secretary of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi. Mahadev Desai participated in Champaran Satyagraha, Bardoli Satyagraha, and Salt Satyagraha, and during this time he was arrested. He was a lover of mathematics and texts like Ramayana, Mahabharata, Gita. Later she became the principal of the Women’s Training College, Ahmedabad. The qualities of the father had a complete effect on Mahadev Bhai. He pursued higher education in Mumbai and obtained a law degree in 1913. After this, he practised for a few days but did not get much success in it. Then he continued to work in a government bank for some time, but seeing the irregularities and running around there, left him too. He died on 15 August 1942.
Chaudhary Ajit Singh (12 February 1939 – 6 May 2021) was an Indian politician. He was the son of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. He was the Agriculture Minister of India, and he was the Minister of Civil Aviation in the UPA government at the Centre from 2011. He was the President of Rashtriya Lok Dal for a long time. He was also an elected MP from Bagh pat in Uttar Pradesh. He died of Kovid-19 in Gurugram on 6 May 2021. He worked in the US computer industry for 17 years and returned to India in the early 1980s to revive the Lok Dal. Lok Dal is a party formed by his father that mainly follows a large section of the farmers. He died on 15 August 1939.
Amar Singh Chaudhary (31 July 1941 – 15 August 2004) was an Indian National Congress politician. He was the former eighth Chief Minister of Gujarat. Amassing Chaudhary was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 6 July 1985 to 9 December 1989. In the 1972 Lok Sabha elections, Amar Singh Chaudhary got a Congress ticket from the Vyara reserved seat of Surat. In front was PK of Congress (O). Nagjibhai Chowdhary. Amar Singh Chaudhary won this election by 15351 votes. Congress got 140 seats out of 168 in the state. Ghanshyambhai Ojha was made the new Chief Minister. Amar Singh Chaudhary got the minister’s chair for the first time as soon as he became an MLA. Being an engineer, he was made Minister of State in the Ministry of Dam Affairs. During the Jagannath Yatra in Ahmedabad in 1985 and 1986, there were fierce riots. In such a situation, instead of banning the journey in 1987, he allowed it. The yatra took place without any violence under heavy police arrangements. Amar Singh Chaudhary started the ‘Old Age Pension Scheme. He was the first tribal chief minister of Gujarat. He died on 15 August 2004.
Notable events on 15 August in Indian and World History
15 August 1772 – The East India Company decided to separate civil and criminal courts in different districts.
15 August 1855 – The East India Railway ran the first passenger train from Calcutta (now Kolkata) to Hooghly in 1854.
15 August 1907 – Indian Bank – was established on 15 August as part of the Swadeshi Movement.
15 August 1947 – Yugvani (Magazine) – Monthly magazine published from Dehradun (Uttarakhand). It was initially published as a fortnightly newspaper, which later became the main weekly newspaper of the mountain.
15 August 1947 – Independence Day – India got independence from the British on this day.
15 August 1947 – Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru took oath as the first Prime Minister of independent India.
15 August 1947 – Defence Gallantry Awards – Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra were instituted.
15 August 1950 – In India 20 to 30 thousand people died due to an earthquake of magnitude 8.6.
15 August 1979 – Faridabad became the 12th district of Haryana on this day.
15 August 1982 – The national program of nationwide colour broadcasting and TV was inaugurated in Delhi.
15 August 1990 – The Akash surface-to-air missile was successfully launched in 1990.
15 August 2004 – Lara became the fastest batsman to score 10,000 runs on this day.
15 August 2008 – On the occasion of Independence Day, President Pratibha Patil unveiled the statue of freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh in Parliament House Complex.
India’s Independence Day is celebrated every year on 15 August. On this day in 1947, the residents of India got independence from British rule. It is the national festival of India. The day is celebrated all over India with flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural events. Indians celebrate this day by displaying the national flag on their dress, belongings, homes, and vehicles and watching patriotic movies, and listening to patriotic songs with family and friends.
13 August is observed annually as International Lefthanders Day. A day to appreciate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals. The day was first observed in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of Lefthanders International, Inc.
The theme of International Lefthanders Day 2022
13 August is observed annually as International Lefthanders Day. A day to appreciate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals. There is no specific theme for the day.
Former US presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama
Prince WilliamMother Teresa
Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar
Actors Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth
Industrialist Ratan Tata Scientist
Sir Isaac Newton
Painter Pablo Picasso
French leader Napoleon Bonaparte
Media personality Oprah Winfrey
International Left-handers Day: Struggles Faced by Left-Handers
Finding a comfortable desk position: If you are a left-hander, you’ll know the difficulty of writing on a desk that really only works for a right-hander. The amount of time one spends on adjusting and trying to find the perfect angle.
Handling household equipment: Most of the kitchen equipment and basic household tools such as Scissors, tweezers, and bottle openers are designed keeping right-handed people in mind. It is difficult to find a pair of scissors that works for a left-hander and doesn’t hurt their fingers. Even Computer keyboards and mouses are right-handers friendly.
Public transport: The ticket barriers at metro stations typically have the scanner on the right side. Therefore, a left-handed person, who might instinctively put their metro card or the coin towards the left, will simply open the gate for someone else.
Elbow wars and being pushed to the far left: Left-handed people always have to be conscious about which side they want to sit on. Dining out with friends and family, they have to make sure that their elbows do not clash with someone else who is eating with their right hand, for which they prefer a seat in the far corner.
History of International Lefthanders Day
International Lefthanders Day was launched by the Club as an annual event on 13th August 1992 when lefthanders everywhere can celebrate their uniqueness and also increase awareness in the public about the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed. The event is now celebrated worldwide. In the UK there have been more than 20 regional events to mark the day including left-v-right sports matches, a left-handed tea party, and nationwide “Lefty Zones” where lefthanders’ creativity, adaptability, and sporting prowess were celebrated, etc.
National Bowling Day is observed on the second Saturday of August as a commemoration of one of America’s most popular sports. Because bowling is such an inclusive sport, everyone enjoys playing it. In the year 2022, observation fall on 13 August. The game is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Therefore, it is no surprise that over 100 million people around the world enjoy playing this game. During this holiday, bowlers are encouraged to get interested in the sport so grab some bowling shoes, put on a bowling shirt, and hit the pins with your friends.
Theme of National Bowling Day 2022
National Bowling Day is observed on the second Saturday of August as a commemoration of one of America’s most popular sports. There is no specific theme for the day.
Most bowling games use ten pins, and previously you could use anywhere from three to seventeen. The government once considered bowling to be a dangerous and fast game, which is why nine-pin bowling was banned, and this law remains in effect today. Many centres now use 10-pins instead of nine pins to circumvent this law.
There are three holes in the standard bowling ball that you use to stick your fingers in, but you can customize the ball to have many more. Imagine a ball with 12 holes, even though you would not need more than five.
Around the 3rd or 4th century AD, churches in Germany were holding “bowling” rites. This is where a club or Kegel, which looks like a modern-day pin, was put on the end of a runway. If you wanted to cleanse your sins, you would have to roll a stone to hit the Kegel.
The heaviest legal weight for a custom bowling ball is approximately 16 pounds, but it can be as heavy as 23 pounds. Many people question whether playing with 18–23-pound bowling balls should be legal or not. Imagine how sore your fingers would feel if you had to carry that much weight.
In today’s world, anyone and everyone can have a thrilling bowling match holding their breath to watch those pins drop. However, this was not always the case. The American Bowling Congress officially classified bowling as a gentlemen’s sport, and women were never allowed to participate in the exciting game.
History of National Bowling Day
The sport of bowling is derived from centuries-old traditions. A game with pins and balls that resembled bowling has been found in tombs and excavations dating back to 5200 B.C. In Roman times, a game involving throwing stone objects at other objects was played, which later evolved into Bocce.
As we know it today, bowling originated from a German game called Kegels. It was believed that if players knocked down the Kegels at the end of an alley, their sins would be forgiven.
Initially, bowling was played with nine pins, but gambling laws prohibited nine-pin bowling, so people added one more pin in 1841 in order to bend the rules. Since then, the game has always been played with ten pins. In 1905, rubber compound bowling balls were introduced for the first time, replacing wooden balls.
What to do on National Bowling Day
On National Bowling Day, many bowling alleys offer free games, so it is the perfect opportunity to try and hit some strikes with your friends. Take part in a bowling tournament near you if you are an avid bowler.
Lord Mountbatten meets Nehru, Jinnah and other Leaders to plan the Partition of India in 1947.
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is a yearly celebration on 14 August. It aims to remember the victims and sufferings of people during the Partition of India.
During the partition, many Indians suffered. Several families were displaced, and many people died in the partition. In order to further strengthen oneness, social harmony, and human empowerment, it aims to remove social divisions and disharmony.
The theme of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day 2022
The 14th of August is Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. The purpose of it is to remember the victims and sufferings of the Partition of India. The goal is to make Indians realize they need to get rid of social divisions, and disharmony, and support the spirit of oneness, social harmony, and empowerment. There is no specific theme for the day.
Quick facts India Partition
Here are quick facts about India Partition:
As a result of the partition, between 10 and 20 million people were displaced along religious lines, causing an overwhelming refugee crisis in the newly formed countries.
Estimates of the death toll accompanying or preceding the partition vary between several hundred thousand and two million.
It’s estimated that 500,000-800,000 people lost their lives in Punjab alone, and 10 million fled.
Radcliffe didn’t know much about India’s geography.
Radcliffe divided the two nations based on maps, castes, and religions.
Radcliffe had never been to India before the partition.
When he arrived in India on 8 July 1947, he was told what he had to accomplish. The British government gave him only 5 weeks to complete the daunting task.
Radcliffe had finalised the maps between Aug 9 to Aug 14, but it was delayed due to some controversy.
On the day of partition, people of Bengal’s Muslim- dominated districts- Murshidabad and Malda- had put Pakistani flags on their houses, but they later came to know that was part of India. Chittagong, with only a 2 per cent Muslim population went to Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
History of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day
British India was divided into two independent Dominions: India and Pakistan. The two states have since been reorganized: the Dominion of India is now the Republic of India (since 1950), while the Dominion of Pakistan is now the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (since 1956) and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh (since 1971). As part of the partition, Bengal and Punjab were divided based on district-wide non-Muslim or Muslim majorities. As part of the partition, the British Indian Army, the Royal Indian Navy, the Indian Civil Service, the railways, and the central Treasury were divided. The partition was outlined in the Indian Independence Act 1947 and resulted in the dissolution of the British Raj, i.e. Crown rule in India. The two self-governing independent Dominions of India and Pakistan legally came into existence at midnight on 15 August 1947.
On 14 August 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the 14 of August annually will be remembered as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to remind the nation of the sufferings and sacrifices of Indians during the partition in 1947. On 14 August 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said,
Partitions pains can never be forgotten. Millions of our sisters and brothers were displaced and many lost their lives due to mindless hate and violence. In memory of the struggles and sacrifices of our people, 14th August will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, May the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day keep reminding us of the need to remove the poison of social divisions, disharmony and further strengthen the spirit of oneness, social harmony and human empowerment.
India adds 11 more wetlands to the list of Ramsar sites to make total of 75 Ramsar sites covering an area of 13,26,677 ha in the country in the 75th year of Independence.
The 11 new sites include Four (4) sites in Tamil Nadu, Three (3) in Odisha, Two (2) in Jammu & Kashmir and One (1) each in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Designation of these sites would help in the conservation and management of wetlands and wise use of their resources.
India is one of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention, signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971. India signed it on 1st Feb 1982. From 1982 to 2013, a total of 26 sites were added to the list of Ramsar sites, however, from 2014 to 2022, the country has added 49 new wetlands to the list of Ramsar sites.
During this year itself (2022) a total of 28 sites have been declared as Ramsar sites. Based on the date of designation mentioned on Ramsar Certificate, the number is 19 for this year (2022) and 14 for the previous year (2021).
Tamil Nadu has a maximum no. of Ramsar sites (14 nos), followed by UP which has 10 nos. of Ramsar sites.
Brief of 11 wetlands designated as Ramsar sites
S.No
Name of wetland
Area in Ha
State
1.
Tampara Lake
300
Odisha
2.
Hirakud Reservoir
65400
3.
Ansupa Lake
231
4.
Yashwant Sagar
822.90
Madhya Pradesh
5.
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
260.47
Tamil Nadu
6.
Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex
94.23
7.
Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary
112.64
8.
Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary
96.89
9.
Thane Creek
6521.08
Maharashtra
10.
Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve
801.82
Jammu and Kashmir
11.
Shallbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve
1675
The total area of 11 sites
76316
Year-wise designation of 75 Ramsar sites
S. No.
Year of Designation
No of the sites designated
(As per date of designation)
Sites designated up to 2013
and
From 2014 to till date
The area covered in Ha
1
1981
2
26
(1981 to 2013)
633871
2
1990
4
3
2002
13
4
2005
6
5
2012
1
6
2019
11
49
(2014 to 2022)
692807
7
2020
5
8
2021
14
9
2022
19
Total
75
75
1326678
Summary of 11 new Ramsar Site
1. Tampara Lake:
Tampara Lake is among the most prominent freshwater lakes in the State of Odisha situated in Ganjam district. The depression on the ground gradually filled with rainwater from catchment flow and was called “Tamp” by the British and subsequently termed “Tampra” by the locals. The wetland supports at least 60 species of birds, 46 species of fishes, at least 48 species of phytoplanktons, and more than seven species of terrestrial plants and macrophytes. The wetland is an important habitat for vulnerable species such as Cyprinus carpio, common pochard (Aythya ferina), and river tern (Sterna aurantia). With an estimated average fish yield of 12 tonnes per year, the wetland is an important source of livelihood for the local communities. Along with fishes the wetland also provides provisioning services like water for agriculture, and domestic use and is a well-known tourism and recreation site.
Birds above the wetland
Wetland surface Adjacent vegetation
2. Hirakud Reservoir
Hirakud Reservoir, the largest earthen dam in Odisha started operating in 1957. The reservoir to support a range of floral and faunal species, including several of high conservation significance. Out of the known 54 species of fish from the reservoir, one has been classed as being endangered, six near threatened and 21 fish species of economic importance. Fisheries presently yield a catch of around 480 MT of fish annually and is the mainstay of livelihoods of 7,000 fisher households. Similarly, over 130 bird species have been recorded at this site, out of which 20 species are of high conservation significance. The reservoir is a source of water for producing around 300 MW of hydropower and irrigating 436,000 ha of cultural command area. The wetland also provides important hydrological services by moderating floods in the Mahanadi delta, the ecological and socio-economic hub of the east coast of India. Hirakud reservoir supports abundant tourism and forms an integral part of the high touristic value sites located around Sambalpur with over 30,000 tourists annually visiting the site.
Hirakud Reservoir Migratory Birds
Waterbirds _ Hirakud Reservoir Landscape
3. Ansupa Lake
Ansupa Lake is the largest freshwater lake of Odisha situated in Banki sub-division of Cuttack district and has its fame from time immemorial for its scenic beauty, biodiversity, and natural resources. The wetland is an oxbow lake formed by River Mahanadi and is spread over an area of 231 ha. The wetland is home to at least 194 species of birds, 61 species of fishes and 26 species of mammals in addition to 244 species of macrophytes. The wetland provides a safe habitat to at least three threatened bird species- Rynchops albicollis (EN), Sterna acuticauda (EN) and Sterna aurantia (VU) and three threatened fish species- Clarias magur (Clariidae) (EN), Cyprinus carpio (Cyprinidae) (VU) and Wallago attu (VU). Ansupa lake sustains the freshwater demands of the surrounding areas and also supports the livelihood of the local communities through fisheries and agriculture. The wetland has immense recreational and tourism potential as it is a major wintering ground for migratory birds and is also known for its scenic beauty.
A view of Ansupa Lake A view of Ansupa Lake
Migratory ducks in Ansupa Lake
4. Yashwant Sagar
Yashwant Sagar is one of the two Important Bird Areas (IBA) in the Indore region as well as one of the most important birding sites in Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Presently it is mainly used for water supply to the city of Indore and is also being used for fish culture on a commercial scale. Yashwant Sagar reservoir comes under the jurisdiction of Indore City Municipal Corporation. Indore which has bagged the title of one of the cleanest cities in India is also often known as center of economic growth of Madhya Pradesh. The catchment area of this wetland is predominantly agriculture. Yashwant Sagar is considered to be a stronghold of the vulnerable Sarus Crane in central India. The lake backwaters have plenty of shallow areas, conducive for waders and other waterfowl. As the water level recedes, many islands serve as roosting sites for waterfowl. Due to its vast shallow reed beds, the wetland is considered heaven to a large number of winter migratory birds.
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary, locally known as “Chitrangudi Kanmoli” is located in Ramanathapuram district in Tamil Nadu. The wetland is a protected area since 1989 and declared as Bird Sanctuary, coming under the jurisdiction of Tamil Nadu Forest Department, Ramanathapuram division. Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is an ideal habitat for winter migratory birds. Around 50 birds belonging to 30 families have been reported from the site. Out of these 47 are water birds and 3 terrestrial birds. Notable waterbirds spotted from the site area spot-billed pelican, little egret, grey heron, large egret, open billed stork, purple, and pond herons. Chitrangudi is surrounded by agricultural fields, where different crops are grown throughout the year. The wetland also supports a number of fishes, amphibians, molluscs, aquatic insects, and their larvae forming good food sources for arriving waterbirds. Groundwater is extracted for irrigation around and within the wetland for agricultural purposes.
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
6. Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex
Suchindrum Theroor Wetland complex is part of the Suchindrum-Theroor Manakudi Conservation Reserve. It is declared an Important Bird Area and lies at the southern tip of the Central Asian flyway of migratory birds. It was formed for birds’ nesting purposes and it attracts thousands of birds every year. The total population dependent upon Theroor is about 10,500 and 75% of the population’s livelihood hinges on agriculture which in turn is dependent upon the water released from the Theroor tank. This is a man-made, inland Tank and is perennial. Copper plate inscriptions from the 9th century mention Pasumkulam, Venchikulam, Nedumarthukulam, Perumkulam, Elemchikulam and Konadunkulam. Around 250 species of birds have been recorded in the area, of which 53 are migratory, 12 endemic, and 4 threatened.
Landscape of Suchindram Tank Indian Cormorant
Heronry in Suchindram Theroor Spot-billed Duck
7. Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary
Vaduvur bird sanctuary spreads over an area of 112.638 ha, is a large human-made irrigation tank and shelter for migratory birds as it provides a suitable environment for food, shelter, and breeding ground. While these irrigation tanks have socio-economic and cultural significance, very little is known of their ecological importance. These tanks have the potential to harbor good populations of resident and wintering water birds but no studies have been done to confirm this. Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii occurred in most of the surveyed tanks. Large concentrations of wintering waterfowl such as Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope, Northern Pintail Anas acuta, Garganey Anas querquedula were recorded in tanks. Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary has a diverse habitat including a number of inlets and surrounding irrigated agricultural fields which provides good nesting and foraging habitats for birds. Thus, the site provides support to the species listed above during critical stages of their life-cycle.
Panoramic View of Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary Black headed Ibis nest
Nesting Site Panoramic view of the sanctuary
8. Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary
Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary is a Protected area near Mudukulathur Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu. India, declared in 1989. It is notable as a nesting site for several migratory heron species that roost in the prominent growth of babul trees there. The breeding population of migratory waterbirds arrive here between October and February and include: painted stork, white ibis, black ibis, little egret, great egret. The site qualifies as an IBA as the threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis breeds here. The wetland exhibits rich biodiversity including many globally near-threatened species like Spot-billed Pelican, Oriental Darter, Oriental white Ibis and Painted Stork and also commonly occurring shore and water birds like greenshank, plovers, stilts and forest birds like bee-eaters, bulbuls, cuckoos, starlings, barbets, etc. They act as breeding, nesting, roosting, foraging, and stopover sites for the birdsThe wetland supports IUCN RedList vulnerable avian species like Sterna aurantia (River Tern).
Black winged stilt Black Ibis
Spot-billed pelican nesting site Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary
9. Thane Creek
Thane Creek is located in Maharashtra, India. There are several sources of fresh water to the creek, of which Ulhas River is the largest, followed by many drainage channels from various suburban areas of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai & Thane. It has been declared as Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary. Thane creek is fringed by mangroves on both banks & comprises around 20% of the total Indian mangrove species. The mangrove forest acts as a natural shelter belt & protects the land from cyclones, tidal surges, seawater seepage & intrusions. The mangrove serves as a nursery for several fishes & sustains the local fishery. The area is an important part of the wetland complex of the Central Asian Flyway of the birds and has been categorized as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Other than 202 avifaunal species, the creek also houses 18 species of fishes, crustaceans & molluscs, 59 species of butterflies, 67 species of Insects, and 35 species of phytoplankton, and 24 species of zooplankton & 23 species of Benthos.
congregation of Lesser flamingos Closeup view
Mangroves of Thane creekFlamingoes in Thane creek
10. Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve
Hygam Wetland falls within the River Jhelum basin and plays a significant role as a flood absorption basin, biodiversity conservation site, eco-tourism site, and livelihood security for the local communities. The wetland is located in the Baramulla district. It serves as an abode to many residents and migratory bird species. It is also recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Consequent to the high rate of siltation, Hygam Wetland has lost its wetland characteristics to a large extent and in many places changed its profile into a landmass. This has resulted in further loss of habitat conditions to offer a suitable site for visiting migratory birds (Winter/ Summer migrants) and for resident birds as well. Hygam Wetland provides a plethora of ecosystem services, these include fish and fiber, water supply, water purification, climate regulation, flood regulation, and recreational opportunities. The livelihoods of people living in, and adjoining the fringes of wetlands depend partially or entirely on wetland ecosystem services.
Photograph of the flood basin Migratory Waterfowl congregation at Hygam wetland
Photograph of the flood basin. Photograph of the wetland channel.
11. Shallbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve
Shallabug Wetland Conservation Reserve is located in the District Srinagar, UT of J&K. Large areas of the wetland dry up between September and March. The area has extensive reedbeds of Phragmites communis and Typha angustata, and rich growth of Nymphaea candida and N. stellata on open water. It serves as an abode to more than four lakh resident and migratory birds of at least 21 species. Shallabugh Wetland plays a major role in the natural control, amelioration or prevention of flooding, It is also important for seasonal water retention for wetlands or other areas of conservation importance downstream. The wetland is important for the recharge of aquifers. A major natural floodplain system. Shallabugh Wetland provides plethora of ecosystem services, these include fish and fiber, water supply, water purification, climate regulation, flood regulation, recreational opportunities. The wetland serves as an important breeding ground for many species of waterbirds
This is All India Radio. The news read by …. Over the past 75 years since independence, India’s largest public service broadcaster has been the proverbial storyteller for the 1.3 billion citizens across the country.
All India Radio is celebrating 75 years of freedom with a unique initiative titled, “Azad Bharat Ki Baat- Akashvani Ke Saath.” Starting 15th August 2022, the 90-second series will be broadcast on 100.1FM GOLD channel, prime time news Bulletins and across all of its platforms including social media. It will showcase the journey of India since Independence in various walks of life through the storytelling of All India Radio- the Voice of Nation.
AIR will be looking back at the historic journey from the Birth of a nation to the Emerging Superpower that is Modern India with snippets from its repertoire. These include the voices of legends like Mahatma Gandhi, Homi Jahangir Bhabha, Sir C.V. Raman, Dr Kurien Varghese, Dr M. S. Swaminathan, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Melvin de Mello, Jasdev Singh to name a few. Every day one special story will be broadcast and uploaded on AIR Social media handles on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Youtube. It can be accessed on @AkashvaniAir & @airnewsalerts on Twitter, newsonairofficial YouTube channel, newsonair.gov.in, NewsonAir App, Facebook and Instagram
Since its inception on 8 June 1936, All India Radio has been a witness to the history of the country including the first Independence Day, way back in 1947 the liberation of Bangladesh to India making history at World Cup Cricket.
All India Radio is one of the largest broadcasting organisations in the world broadcasting in 23 languages and 179 dialects from 479 stations across the country. It reaches nearly 92 per cent of the area and 99.19 per cent of the total population. Its motto is ‘Bahujan Hitaya: Bahujan Sukhaya’, which means ‘for the happiness of many, for the welfare of many’,
As we mark Azadi ka Amrit Mohtsav today, Shri Piyush Goyal has said that we should take a pledge to ensure that the message of Swadeshi and self-reliance in India continues and that Indian products are given priority.
At Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat, Shri Goyal hoisted the National Flag in commemoration of the Azadi ka Amrit Mohotsav being celebrated from 13-15 August 2022. He visited Rashtriya Swachhta Kendra and viewed a digital exhibition that chronicled India’s journey to becoming an open defecation-free nation on 2 October 2019.
The Minister also administered the Har Ghar Tiranga Pledge at the event. A shawl was presented to the family members of freedom fighters as a token of his appreciation.
Minister Goyal said, today it is a moment of immense pride for us that the whole country is giving the message to the world, of entering the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal by uniting and hoisting the Tricolour at home.
As a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, Shri Goyal noted that Gandhiji was instrumental in bringing everyone together for Satyagraha in the struggle for Indian freedom. A glimpse of Bapu’s dream of Swachh Bharat was seen today in the Swachhata Museum, he said, as Narendra Modi launched a campaign in 2014 to realize that dream.
During this Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, Shri Goyal said, “Let us resolve to take India forward faster and make this a developed and prosperous country in the next 25 years.”
India is poised to become the world’s growth engine, he stated confidently.
During the course of the day, Shri Goyal also visited the Vanijya Bhawan exhibition on the horrors of partition.
Ayush Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal dedicated two new buildings of Ayush institutes to the people of India on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Independence. Today, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the new headquarters office of the Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) at Tambaram Sanatorium in Chennai, as well as the new extension to the OPD block of the Ayothidoss Pandithar Hospital of the National Institute of Siddha.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal addressed the gathering, stating, “I am deeply grateful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for giving a special impetus to all Ayush systems, including Siddha, nationally and internationally.” As a result of this new infrastructure, I believe that further innovations and academic developments will flourish within the minds of scientists, academicians, and students. CCRS and NIS are expected to produce better results in both research and academics.”
The Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) is the apex organization for research in the Siddha system of medicine. The main objective of this project is to validate Siddhars’ claims scientifically for global acceptance. By conducting Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trials and publishing more than 30 quality research articles in peer-reviewed journals, CCRS has recently demonstrated the effectiveness of Siddha formulations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the National Institute of Siddha (NIS) is an apex and premier Institute for the Siddha system of Medicine with a primary mandate for patient care, teaching and research in higher education for post-graduate and doctoral research scholars.
