IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra won the award for ‘enhancing tropical cyclone prediction and warning systems in the Indian Ocean region through exceptional leadership and services’.

Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the director general (meteorology) of India Meteorological Department,  has won the Outstanding Service Award, 2025, from American Meteorological Society (AMS). He received the award for “enhancing tropical cyclone prediction and warning systems in the Indian Ocean region through exceptional leadership and services”, according to the citation.

A PhD holder in Physics, Mohapatra also serves as India’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). With three decades of meterology-related experience in the bag, he was elected the third vice-president of WMO in 2023 for a four-year term.

Mohapatra has vast experience in refining weather-prediction technology.

As part of WMO’s Tropical Cyclone Programme, he helped improve cyclone warning services to 13 WMO/ESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific) panel member countries. This meant the track & intensity forecast errors up to 72 hours were cut by 25 per cent in 2018-22 compared to 2013-17. Landfall errors, meanwhile, were down 40-70 per cent, according to the WMO website.

‘Weather forecasting challenging’

Speaking to The Indian Express earlier this month, Mohaptra had said that weather forecasting has become very challenging in evolving climatic conditions.

“Climate change is leading to increased frequency and uncertainty in extreme weather events. It is also seen that drier regions are getting increased rainfall and wet regions are receiving lesser rainfall. Localised extreme events have increased, like higher intensity rainfall is occurring in lesser time duration,” the former Physics lecturer had said.

Keeping the evolving climate scenario in mind, India Meteorological Department, the country’s premier weather forecasting agency, launched Mission Mausam in 2024 as it stepped into its 150th year of existence.

Over the years, Mohapatra has chaired many WMO committees, such as the WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones (2017-18) and the executive council of South Asia Hydromet Forum.

He has served as an expert member on nearly a dozen WMO committees including the International Organising Committee for 8th & 9th International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones and the expert team on climate impact on tropical cyclones

Who wins the award?

The Outstanding Service Award is given to an individual who has made significant contributions to the committee/board of the Scientific and Technological Activities Commission (STAC) or in service to the larger community in the committee/board discipline, according to the AMS website.

There are two other awards, namely, Outstanding Early Career Award and Distinguished Scientific/Technological Accomplishment Award.

He has served as an expert member on nearly a dozen WMO committees including the International Organising Committee for 8th & 9th International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones and the expert team on climate impact on tropical cyclones

Who wins the award?

The Outstanding Service Award is given to an individual who has made significant contributions to the committee/board of the Scientific and Technological Activities Commission (STAC) or in service to the larger community in the committee/board discipline, according to the AMS website.

There are two other awards, namely, Outstanding Early Career Award and Distinguished Scientific/Technological Accomplishment Award.

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)

Chennai, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday claimed that the Iron Age began in the region and the use of iron on Tamil soil could be dated to the first quarter of 4th millennium BCE, thus establishing that iron usage was prominent in South India over 5,300 years ago.

The history of the Indian subcontinent can no longer overlook Tamil Nadu. In fact, it must begin from here, the CM said.

“I am making an important announcement here. Based on research, the use of iron on Tamil soil could be dated back to early 4000 BCE. Melting iron was introduced about 5,300 years,” he said citing the recent findings of the Tamil Nadu Archaeology Department during excavations in the state.

Speaking after releasing a book on “Antiquity of Iron” authored by K Rajan and Sivanantham and published by TN Archaeology Department, at a function held at the Secretariat here, Stalin said the specimen of the relics obtained at archaeological sites were sent to a reputed research centre in Pune, and a renowned international research facility in Florida for analysis.

“We sent samples for analysis at national institutes and for radiocarbon dating, too. The results showed that iron was introduced to South India as early as 3345 BC,” he said.

The chief minister laid the foundation stones for Keeladi Open Air Museum, Gangaikonda Cholapuram Museum and launched a webiste for Keeladi Museum, on the occasion.

“I have been saying that the history of India should begin from Tamil soil. The Tamil Nadu Archaeological Department is continuously conducting excavations in this direction and these findings are emerging as turning points in our history,” the CM said.

State Finance and Archaeology Minister Thangam Thennarasu, and Principal Secretary to the Government T Udhayachandran, and other officials participated.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

As part of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) 49th Raising Day
celebrations, ICG proudly announces the commencement of the ‘Sentinels of the Sea

• Sarhad Se Samandar’ motorcycle expedition. The landmark event will be flagged off
  by Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, PTM, TM, Commander Coast Gurad Region
  (West) along with Dr Atul Fulzele, Inspector General, BSF Punjab Frontier at 1330 hrs
  on 22 January 2025, from the Attari Border, Amritsar.
• 
  This prestigious rally, organized by the ICG Regional Headquarters West in
  collaboration with Triumph Motorcycles Ltd. will span over 10 days, covering a distance
  of 2,300 Kilometers. The route traverses India’s border towns and coastal cities
  including Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Vadodara, Daman
  and concludes at the iconic Gateway of India, Mumbai on 01 Feb 25 (Coast Guard
  Day-25).
• The expedition is a tribute to the unwavering dedication and valour of the
  ICG in safeguarding the nation’s maritime boundaries. It symbolizes the Coast Guard’s
  critical role in national security, vigilance at sea and highlights India’s proud maritime
  heritage. The rally also fosters the spirit of national unity, environmental
  consciousness and camaraderie, reflecting the collective strength of India’s defence
  forces.

In line with Govt. of India’s vision of Fit India Movement, Beti Bachao – Beti Padhao
and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan will be highlighted during the rally. The expedition
encourages emotional resilience, well-being and teamwork. Through the journey, the
ICG personnel will interact with students at various schools en-route, conducting
awareness drives aimed at inspiring young minds with India’s rich maritime legacy.
This motorcycle rally offers a chance to physically connect with the countrymen
residing in the hinterland of India. The ride through the vast and diverse terrains will
bring ICG closer to the land, the culture, and the people, reminding us that our roots
are firmly planted in the rich soil of India’s history, values, and traditions.

The expedition also reinforces the importance of road safety and responsible driving,
emphasizing the values of teamwork, discipline and adventure. It celebrates the spirit
of exploration while spreading the message of environmental stewardship and
sustainable practices. The ICG remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the
nation’s maritime interests while promoting awareness and unity through such
meaningful initiatives

source/content: indiancoastguard.gov.in (headline edited)

Inspired by the significant findings of marine strata containing fossils, the state government has announced plans to transform the site into a Marine Fossil Park.

Chhattisgarh’s Manendragarh district is poised to attract history enthusiasts and geologists with the discovery of a 280-million-year-old marine fossil site along the Hasdeo River. Inspired by the significant findings of marine strata containing fossils, the state government has announced plans to transform the site into a Marine Fossil Park.

The conspicuousness of this fossil site was first identified by structural geologist Professor S K Ghosh in 1954. Years later, in 2015, experts from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleo Sciences, Lucknow, confirmed the importance of the fossils found in this region.

Acknowledging its scientific value, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) designated the site as a National Geological Monument in 1982, recognising its exceptional contribution to understanding the Earth’s ancient history, a state government spokesperson said to TNIE.

“The Chhattisgarh government’s decision to develop this site into a Marine Fossil Park is expected to attract both tourists and scientists from around the world. The Park will serve as a biodiversity heritage site, offering a unique opportunity to explore the story of the Earth’s evolution and the ancient organisms that once lived here”, he added.

The notable park will be of glaring pride not only just for Chhattisgarh state but for the entire Asia, offering a rare glimpse into the Earth’s ancient marine life.

Researchers will have access to the valuable site for scientific studies, while visitors can explore opportunities to learn about the ancient exciting history of marine life. The findings of fossiliferous marine fauna suggest the massive expanse of salt water covering the earth surface in this part of the state.

The Chhattisgarh government, while emphasising the site as meaningful and crucial, is working closely with teams from the Geological Survey of India, Kolkata, and the Birbal Sahni Institute, Lucknow to assess the site’s potential.

Scientists are of the opinion that 280 million years ago, the region where the Hasdeo river is located was covered by a massive glacier.

As geological changes took place, this region became a part of the ‘Tethys Sea’, allowing marine life to enter. While these species eventually became extinct, their preserved fossils continue to provide valuable insights into the history of life on Earth.

The initiative by Chhattisgarh promises to bring the state onto the global map, showcasing the rich natural heritage of the region and offering future generations the occasion to understand the Earth’s ancient past.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

The signing of the pact comes days before the Biden administration hands over charge to the Trump administration.

India and the U.S. have inked an agreement to enhance cooperation in cybercrime investigations, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The signing of the pact comes days before the Biden administration hands over charge to the Trump administration.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Washington DC on Friday (January 17, 2025) by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra and Acting U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristie Canegallo, the MEA said.

It said the agreement allows the respective agencies of the two countries to step up the level of cooperation and training with respect to the use of cyber threat intelligence and digital forensics in criminal investigations.

From India, the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Home Ministry is responsible for the execution of the MoU.

On the U.S. side, the DHS and its constituent agencies U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations Cyber Crimes Center are tasked with implementing the pact.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

Devotees from various states and around the world have been immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the holy confluence.

More than seven crore pilgrims have taken a dip at the Sangam — the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers — from January 11 to January 16 on the occasion of the Maha Kumbh Mela, according to an official statement.

According to it, more than 30 lakh devotees bathed in the sacred waters on Thursday alone, seeking virtue and divine blessings.

The state government had anticipated that over 45 crore people will attend the Maha Kumbh this time. The early figure of 7 crore pilgrims in the initial days of the religious congregation strongly indicates this projection to be true, the statement said.

Devotees from various states and around the world have been immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the holy confluence.

The statement said that before the start of the Maha Kumbh, approximately 45 lakh people bathed in the sangam on January 11 while January 12 saw a record 65 lakh devotees.

On the first day of the Maha Kumbh, a record 1.70 crore pilgrims took the holy dip and on January 14, around 3.50 crore people bathed in the Sangam. In the first two days of Mahakumbh alone, more than 5.20 crore devotees took the holy dip, it said.

On Wednesday, a 21-member delegation from 10 countries arrived at Arail Tent City in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj to take a holy dip at Triveni Sangam.

The delegation, invited by the External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, will take a sacred dip at Triveni Sangam on Thursday.

Speaking to ANI, Denesh Persaud from Guyana, expressed his joy and fulfilment after taking a holy dip in the River Ganges.”It’s a dream come true. I always wanted to come here and take a holy dip in the River Ganges. I have fulfilled that wish,” Persaud said.

Sally El Azab from United Arab Emirates, is among the many international pilgrims who have travelled to Prayagraj, to experience the Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world.

The visiting group included representatives from Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This showcases the global interest in this spiritual event.

The statement noted that the Mahakumbh, organised under the leadership of the Yogi government, has drawn global attention this year. Their accommodations were arranged at the Tent City in Arail, an initiative by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation.

Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26. The next key bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya—Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami—Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

(With inputs from PTI and ANI)

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

“During the three field trials, the missile systems destroyed precisely all the targets”.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Monday (January 13, 2024) announced that the indigenously-developed third-generation fire-and-forget Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) ‘Nag Mk 2’ and the entire system was ready for induction into the Army following successful field firing trials.

Field evaluation trials of Nag-Mk 2 were successfully conducted recently at Pokhran Field Range in the presence of senior officers of the Army, a statement from the DRDO said. “During the three field trials, the missile systems destroyed precisely all the targets – maximum and minimum range, thus validating its firing range.”

Stating that the Nag Missile Carrier version-2 was also field evaluated, the DRDO announced, “With this, the entire weapon system is now ready for induction into the Indian Army.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took to social media to congratulate the Army and the industry on the successful field evaluation trials.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)
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The docking involved two satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket on December 30, 2024.

In a landmark achievement, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed the nation’s first satellite docking experiment under the SpaDeX mission.

The docking involved two satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket on December 30, 2024. After multiple attempts and close manoeuvres on Sunday, the satellites were successfully docked, marking a historic milestone for India’s space program.

ISRO announced the success of the docking experiment on the social media platform X, stating, “Spacecraft docking successfully completed! A historic moment.”

The announcement detailed the precise manoeuvring process, which included moving the satellites from a 15-meter distance to a 3-meter hold point, initiating docking, and achieving spacecraft capture. The retraction process was completed smoothly, followed by rigidisation to ensure stability.

Following the successful docking, ISRO’s new chairman, V Narayanan, who was in Delhi at the time, congratulated the entire team for their efforts. In its social media post, ISRO confirmed that the satellites were now operating as a single entity and mentioned that undocking and power transfer checks would follow in the coming days.

“Post docking, control of two satellites as a single object is successful. Undocking and power transfer checks to follow in coming days,” ISRO said in a post on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a post on X greeted the scientists for the achievement.

He said: “Congratulations to our scientists at @isro and the entire space fraternity for the successful demonstration of space docking of satellites. It is a significant stepping stone for India’s ambitious space missions in the years to come.”

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also greeted ISRO for achieving the feat.

“We are extremely proud of the exceptional work of the scientists and space engineers at @isro as they successfully achieved the satellite docking as part of the SpaDex Mission,” Kharge said in a post on X.

He said this significant milestone marks a pivotal step for the future of India’s space programme, which has been built over years, and is a collective achievement for the nation.

The docking, initially scheduled for January 7, faced postponements as the distance between the satellites was reduced from 500 meters to 225 meters. On Sunday, after bringing the satellites to a 3-meter distance, the teams conducted a separation to ensure safety before the final docking maneuver.

The SpaDeX docking experiment, executed at a cost of Rs 370 crore, has positioned India as the fourth country in the world to achieve this critical space capability. The accomplishment has brought widespread acclaim among space science enthusiasts and bolstered the nation’s ambitions in space exploration.

The docking technology is vital for upcoming missions like Gaganyaan and the Bharatiya Antariksh Missions. Successful spacecraft docking facilitates the transfer of supplies, equipment, and potentially astronauts, paving the way for advanced human spaceflight and interplanetary missions.

Congratulatory tweets

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, in his congratulatory message said: “This milestone marks a significant leap in India’s capabilities, paving the way for greater space programmes and missions. Your dedication and innovation continue to inspire the world and make every Indian proud.”

Union Minister of State for Science, Technology and Space, Jitendra Singh posted: “Congrats #ISRO. Finally made it. SpaDeX has accomplished the unbelievable’ docking complete’ and it is all indigenous ‘Bharatiya Docking System’.”

AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge posted on ‘X’: “We are extremely proud of the exceptional work of the scientists and space engineers at @isro as they successfully achieved the satellite docking as part of the SpaDex Mission.”

A Stepping stone: PM MOdi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to congratulate the ISRO team. “Congratulations to our scientists at

@ISRO. This is a significant stepping stone…” he said

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited0

Dr Aseem Malhotra, British-Indian cardiologist, with close ties to RFK Jr and a Trump admin connection, doubles down on an ingredient-focussed diet plan.

British-Indian Dr Aseem Malhotra has a close rapport with Robert F Kennedy Jr and has appeared on podcasts with Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson. According to the Daily Mail’s insight, the cardiologist could potentially land a key role in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under Donald Trump’s new administration.

Unpacking his five-ingredient Metabolic Reset diet, the British doctor has devised a no-calorie counting way to counter health problems that have collectively affected 140 million Americans and Britons. His new diet is expected to tackle diabetes and high blood pressure just within days. Now, his secret is ours.

Trump doctor’s five-ingredient diet plan to counter diabetes and high blood pressure

“If an item comes out of a packet and it contains five or more ingredients then it is not allowed,” said Dr Malhotra. For reasons yet to be explained, the longer an ingredient list is, the more it is believed to have been through processing. In turn, the more processed the diet is, the higher the vulnerability to diabetes and high blood pressure.

His formulation has proved helpful in reversing his patients’ prediabetes and lowering their blood pressure in 28 days. The best part of the diet, which was worked out alongside London -based nutritionist Kim Pearson, is that it is not required to be followed forever. The cardiologist recommended following the diet plan for a month or so. Thereafter, carbs can be gradually introduced to the meal plan on the weekends.

Dr Malhotra graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in medicine in 2001. His areas of expertise include evidence-based medicine, obesity, coronary artery disease, and preventive cardiology. Meanwhile, Pearson is also a clinical director and wellness editor. She specialises in weight loss, metabolic health, and longevity.

Do’s and don’ts prescribed by British-Indian doctor – tapped by Donald Trump

As diets have often been synonymously equated with making one feel hungry, Dr Aseem Malhotra’s plan goes the other way. “We don’t want people to feel hungry,” he pointed out. However, he does ban a certain group of foods. All sugary foods minus fibre, such as white bread, rice and pasta, packaged food with a long list of ingredients, diet sodas and ‘fake sugars’ are completely off the table.

The main agenda here is to “snap out of” one’s addiction to junk food and “reset” metabolic health. The primary takeaway is to eat three meals a day, leaving four to five hours between each. Moreover, the fasting window overnight should last between 14 to 16 hours. It helps “reset the digestive system.” Intake of at least five vegetables or pieces of fruit is recommended per day. These should be included in at least two meals.

The 47-year-old doctor’s diet is based on the Mediterranean Diet, which emphasises consuming plant-based foods and healthy fats like olive oil and raw nuts. Such options are believed to help remove excess cholesterol from arteries, keeping blood vessels open.

Breakfast-lunch-dinner options

Another good source of fibre is berries, which are nutrient-heavy. The filling antioxidants low in calories help with digestion, slowing down food’s passage through the digestive tract. As a result, a berry smoothie (rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, B vitamins and magnesium) emerges as a viable breakfast option. A vegetable omelette is another one.

For lunch, he and Pearson recommend a protein salad – red meat is allowed. The night options are a stir fry with fibre-rich Japanese noodles or meatballs with vegetable spaghetti.

What about beverage consumption?

Dr Malhotra greenlights only zero calories coffee, water and tea on the drinks side. Although he doesn’t outrightly ban alcohol to ensure the plan’s long term sustainability. Therefore, moderation suggestions amount to three small (175 ml) glasses of dry wine or seven single (25 ml) measures of white spirit.

To “make goals more digestible,” he also introduces a “simple switch”—though not part of his diet plan—eating McDonald’s burgers without the buns. His investigation revealed that the bread itself contains 50 additives. Conversely, the patties alone with toppings are a better option.

80/20 rule leaves room for occasional cheat days

Further making the diet more accessible and easy to follow, he shared the ‘80/20’ rule, which gives people room to cheat occasionally, either on the weekend or at social events where recommended options are nowhere to be found. Sticking to the diet 80% of the time also goes a long way in adopting healthy habits.

The Daily Mail reported that the Metabolic Reset diet, set to launch on February 10, will be available on metabolicreset.co

* The official website clearly establishes that the diet plan is “For educational and informational purposes. Dr Malhotra and Kim are not able to advise you on your individual circumstances.”

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

He emphasised that India has made remarkable progress towards becoming a strong, secure, and self-reliant nation by manufacturing cutting-edge defence equipment domestically and exporting to other countries.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday celebrated India’s success as a global start-up leader and urged the youth to align their aspirations with the nation’s journey towards becoming a developed country by 2047, under the “Viksit Bharat” initiative.

Speaking at the convocation ceremony of a university in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Rajnath Singh said, “India has emerged as the third-largest start-up hub, with over 100 unicorns shaping the future of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

He emphasised that India has made remarkable progress towards becoming a strong, secure, and self-reliant nation by manufacturing cutting-edge defence equipment domestically and exporting to other countries.

The “Viksit Bharat by 2047” initiative envisions India as a developed nation by the centenary of its independence in 2047.

Highlighting the importance of innovation and ideas, Singh said, “India is establishing itself as one of the strongest nations today. Our youth, armed with new confidence and energy, can represent the country on the global stage. If you have an idea, a skill set, and the determination to work hard, opportunities and resources will never be in short supply.”

Singh underscored the decisive role of young ignited minds in achieving this vision. He added that the youth’s dreams, commitment, and innovative thinking would define India’s identity on the global stage. “The strength of a nation lies in the knowledge, skills, and determination of its young minds,” he said.

Quoting the adage, “Every age has its own heroes,” Singh described the youth as the heroes of India’s future. He encouraged the students to draw strength from their optimism, which he identified as the key to finding opportunities in challenges.

The Defence Minister also urged the youth to remain connected to India’s history, culture, and values, as these provide valuable lessons during times of challenge and doubt. “When you look beyond individual achievements and work towards social betterment, you accomplish something that ensures you are remembered for a lifetime,” he said.

Paying tribute to Swami Vivekananda on the occasion of his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as National Youth Day on January 12, Singh described him as India’s first “Global Youth.” He encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and vision.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)