Speaking from afar, PM Modi expressed his heartfelt connection to the occasion, despite the distance. He called the ceremony “historic” and praised the Jakarta Murugan Temple as a beacon of spirituality, culture, and unity. The presence of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the event made it even more special for the Indian Prime Minister, who highlighted the personal and deep bonds between the two leaders.

“My heart is as close to this moment as if I were present physically,” PM Modi remarked during his virtual address, emphasizing the warmth and connection shared between India and Indonesia. He also conveyed his warm wishes to the millions of devotees in both countries and around the world who were part of the sacred ceremony.

The Prime Minister underscored the historical and cultural links between the two nations, noting the deep-rooted connection spanning thousands of years. He pointed out that these ties go beyond geopolitics, grounded in shared faith, spirituality, and history, particularly through revered figures like Lord Murugan, Lord Sri Ram, and Lord Buddha. He also highlighted that for many Indians, a visit to Indonesia’s Prambanan Temple or reading works such as the Kakawin and Serat Ramayan fosters a spiritual bond similar to visiting sacred Indian sites like Kashi or Kedarnath.

Reflecting on the unity that exists between the two countries, PM Modi celebrated Indonesia’s cultural identity and philosophy of ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,’ which means ‘Unity in Diversity.’ He expressed that this shared ethos of diversity and harmony is what allows people from different communities to live peacefully in both nations. He also emphasized that this sacred day reinforced the message of unity in diversity.

The Jakarta Murugan Temple, inaugurated with the laying of its foundation stone in February 2020, serves as more than just a place of worship. The temple represents a confluence of Indian, Javanese, and Balinese traditions, while also embracing the values of Pancasila, Indonesia’s state ideology. PM Modi praised the temple as a monumental milestone, adding that it’s a testament to the shared cultural values of India and Indonesia.

“Today, a new golden chapter is being added to our centuries-old heritage,” he said, recognizing the importance of the temple as not only a spiritual center but also a hub for cultural exchange and tourism. With idols of various deities installed within the temple, it showcases the diversity and richness of both countries’ traditions.

PM Modi further celebrated the growing people-to-people ties between the two nations, noting the collaborative efforts in preserving iconic cultural sites like the Prambanan and Borobudur Buddhist Temples. He expressed confidence that these shared cultural initiatives would continue to strengthen the bilateral relationship in the years to come.

The Maha Kumbhabhishekam ceremony itself is being conducted with the help of 72 Gurukals (priests) from India, ensuring the authenticity of the rituals. The temple’s establishment symbolizes the unity of Indonesia’s diverse communities and serves as a reminder of the enduring cultural and spiritual connections that link India and Indonesia.

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At a recent press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the update, adding that India is also committed to advancing its own AI capabilities. “The French President has invited Prime Minister Modi, and India has accepted the invitation. We will share further details about the summit soon,” Jaiswal said. He emphasized that India is developing a robust AI program in parallel, aiming to establish itself as a key player in the field of AI technology.

The AI Action Summit in France will bring together a diverse array of experts, from government officials and tech CEOs to academics and artists, providing a platform for cross-sector collaboration on the future of AI. The event will focus on action-oriented discussions around shaping the global landscape of artificial intelligence and its societal implications.

In addition to engaging on the international stage, India has been making significant strides in strengthening its own AI infrastructure. Jaiswal noted that India is in discussions with various partners to further develop its AI program, including collaborations in the technology sector. His remarks also highlighted that the Indian government is preparing to host open-source AI models like DeepSeek on Indian servers.

This move comes after Chinese startup DeepSeek, known for its open-source reasoning model R1, made waves by challenging the notion that large amounts of GPU hardware are needed to build advanced AI models. In response to this, India is setting up a portal where startups and researchers can access GPUs at more affordable rates, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity to develop AI models and solutions.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also confirmed that India would soon begin hosting these open-source models on Indian servers. He said the government has already worked out the necessary infrastructure, including server capacity, to support the initiative. This aligns with India’s broader goal to position itself as a leader in AI research and development.

As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, India’s participation in the AI Action Summit and its ongoing investment in AI technology signal the country’s growing role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. The collaboration with international partners, along with the strengthening of domestic AI capabilities, reflects India’s commitment to technological innovation and its ambition to contribute meaningfully to the global AI conversation.

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PM Modi, accompanied by other dignitaries, was seen engaging with people at the Gandhi Smriti, reflecting on the relevance of Gandhi’s ideals in the modern era. Speaking on social media, the Prime Minister paid heartfelt tributes to the Mahatma, stating, “Tributes to Pujya Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals motivate us to build a developed India. I also pay tributes to all those martyred for our nation and recall their service as well as sacrifices.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his reverence for Mahatma Gandhi’s contributions to India’s freedom movement and his continued influence on the country’s values. He shared his tribute on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the importance of Gandhi’s philosophy on cleanliness, self-reliance, and rural empowerment. “On behalf of the grateful nation, I pay my tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the leading figure of the Indian freedom movement, who popularised the Indian values of truth, non-violence and fight against injustice across the world,” he wrote.

Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi became the symbol of non-violent resistance, guiding India through the struggle for independence from British colonial rule. His legacy continues to inspire movements for peace and justice worldwide. Despite his tragic assassination by Nathuram Godse in January 1948, just months after India gained independence, Gandhi’s vision for an equitable and harmonious world continues to resonate today.

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The conclave, taking place from January 28 to 29, will kick off with a grand reception at Bhubaneswar Airport, where PM Modi will be welcomed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. Following the warm welcome, the Prime Minister will head to the event venue at Janata Maidan to officially launch the summit.

The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is designed to position the state as a central player in India’s industrial growth, in alignment with the Purvodaya Vision. The state’s ambition is to emerge as a leading investment hub and industrial powerhouse, benefiting from its rich resources and strategic location.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the inauguration of the Make in Odisha Exhibition, which will showcase the state’s accomplishments in creating a vibrant industrial ecosystem. This exhibition will provide a platform for interaction between industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, focusing on the opportunities for investment and collaboration in Odisha.

The conclave is expected to attract over 7,500 investors from across the globe. It will feature a range of activities including CEOs and Leaders’ Roundtables, sectoral discussions, B2B meetings, and policy dialogues. These sessions will focus on key sectors such as Information Technology (IT), renewable energy, textiles, chemicals, and food processing.

In addition to local participants, 12 countries—Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, Poland, and Cuba among them—have been invited as “Countries of Focus.” These nations will explore potential investment opportunities in Odisha, further enhancing the global outreach of the conclave.

The Odisha government is targeting an impressive Rs 5 lakh crore in investments, with plans to sign 100 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the event. However, Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has emphasized that the focus will not just be on MoUs but on ensuring the effective implementation of projects that can drive sustainable industrial growth.

Through the conclave, Odisha aims to accelerate its journey toward becoming a global industrial hub, working towards its vision of a “Samrudh Odisha” by 2036 and contributing to the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. The Utkarsh Odisha conclave is poised to be a defining moment in the state’s industrial transformation, fostering opportunities for both domestic and international investments.

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Expressing his congratulations through a post on X, PM Modi shared his optimism about the future of the partnership between the two nations. “Delighted to speak with my dear friend President Donald Trump. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security,” Modi wrote.

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, represented the Prime Minister as his Special Envoy at the inaugural ceremony, carrying a personal message from PM Modi to President Trump.

Earlier, shortly after Trump’s swearing-in, PM Modi had taken to X to share his best wishes. “Congratulations my dear friend President Donald Trump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries, and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead!” the Prime Minister had written.

Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening bilateral ties and working together toward common goals, reinforcing the significance of their partnership in the years ahead.

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Strengthening Ties with Neighbors

In a gesture of appreciation, PM Modi thanked Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, for his congratulations, which celebrated both India’s 75th year as a Republic and the long-standing friendship between the two nations. Modi’s response emphasized the historical ties and expressed confidence that the relationship would only grow stronger in the future. Oli’s message to India had highlighted the importance of democracy and unity, reinforcing the shared values between the two nations.

Similarly, Modi expressed gratitude to Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for his Republic Day greetings. In his response, the Prime Minister underscored the enduring partnership between India and the Maldives, reaffirming a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in both bilateral and strategic areas. Muizzu had also celebrated the mutual trust and respect between the nations, promising to further strengthen the partnership.

PM Modi also responded warmly to Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, acknowledging the unique and special relationship between India and Bhutan. In his message, Modi thanked Tobgay for his Republic Day wishes and expressed his appreciation for Bhutan’s spirit of unity and collaboration. Tobgay’s congratulatory message to India highlighted India’s global inspiration and its role as a beacon of democracy.

Broader Regional Appreciation

Apart from the heads of state in neighboring countries, PM Modi also thanked former Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and former Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih for their kind messages. Modi reiterated the strong ties of friendship between India and these nations, further exemplifying the importance of regional solidarity.

A Celebration of Culture and Unity

India’s 76th Republic Day was celebrated with grandeur at New Delhi’s Kartavya Path, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and military prowess. The event featured more than 30 tableaux from 16 state governments, Union Territories, and ministries, all reflecting this year’s theme of ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Development).

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the distinguished chief guest at this year’s Republic Day celebrations. The event, attended by over 10,000 special guests, recognized the key figures behind India’s journey towards ‘Swarnim Bharat’ and highlighted India’s commitment to progress and strengthening international partnerships.

In his thank-you notes to global leaders, PM Modi encapsulated India’s growing influence on the world stage, where democracy, unity, and enduring partnerships form the foundation of its foreign policy. The 76th Republic Day not only celebrated India’s national achievements but also the bonds that continue to unite nations across the globe.

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Adnan Sami revealed that he had been nominated to the Padma Awards Committee by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The singer took to his Instagram account to thank the Prime Minister and the esteemed members of the committee. “I am profoundly grateful to the Honourable Prime Minister Modi ji for nominating me to the prestigious Padma Awards Committee. It has been an immense privilege to serve alongside distinguished members and be inspired by the remarkable stories of awardees from diverse walks of life,” Sami wrote in his post. He further added, “Their achievements are a testament to the indomitable spirit of India. I extend my warmest congratulations to all the Padma Awardees. It was my high honour to serve India and be part of this noble process. Jai Hind.”

The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India and are conferred annually on the recommendations of the Padma Awards Committee. This committee is constituted by the Prime Minister each year and is led by the Cabinet Secretary, with members including eminent persons from various fields. The awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, recognizing individuals for their exceptional and distinguished service in various disciplines.

In his message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Padma Awardees, emphasizing their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. “India is proud to honour and celebrate their extraordinary achievements. Their dedication and perseverance are truly motivating. Each awardee is synonymous with hard work, passion, and innovation, which has positively impacted countless lives,” Modi said. “They teach us the value of striving for excellence and serving society selflessly.”

The 2025 Padma Awards list includes a wide range of honorees from diverse sectors, including film, music, art, and social service. Among the Padma Bhushan awardees are famous actors Anant Nag, Jatin Goswami, Nandamuri Balakrishna, S Ajith Kumar, and Shekhar Kapur, as well as the late Pankaj Udhas, honored posthumously. Notable Padma Shri awardees include Arijit Singh, Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, comedian Ashok Saraf, and the Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej.

The prestigious Padma Awards will be formally conferred by the President of India in a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, which typically takes place in March or April each year.

Through this recognition of extraordinary individuals, the Padma Awards continue to serve as a reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage, commitment to excellence, and the power of perseverance across various fields.

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During the meeting, both leaders exchanged several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that aimed to enhance collaboration in sectors including health, digital infrastructure, defense, and technology. One of the main highlights was the emphasis on strengthening cooperation in the fields of Fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital public infrastructure.

Prime Minister Modi underscored Indonesia’s critical role as a key partner within the ASEAN framework and in the Indo-Pacific region. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN’s centrality, a theme consistent with India’s ‘Act East’ policy, which seeks to strengthen ties with the countries of East and Southeast Asia. “Indonesia is an important partner for us in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific regions, and we both agree that freedom of navigation should be ensured in accordance with international laws,” Modi remarked.

Looking forward, the year 2025 will be celebrated as the India-ASEAN Year of Tourism, with a focus on fostering greater cultural exchanges and promoting tourism between India and Indonesia. The two leaders also expressed their shared desire to maintain peace, security, prosperity, and the rule of law in the region.

Reflecting on the historical bond between the two nations, Prime Minister Modi highlighted Indonesia’s role as the Chief Guest at India’s first Republic Day in 1950. “As we celebrate 75 years of the Republic, it is a matter of great pride that Indonesia is part of this historic occasion,” Modi said.

Economic cooperation was also a key point of focus, with bilateral trade surpassing $30 billion last year. The leaders discussed enhanced collaborations in the fields of energy, critical minerals, science, technology, and space exploration. In particular, maritime safety and security were underscored, with a commitment to strengthening capacity-building, crime prevention, and search-and-rescue operations in the region.

Cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization efforts were also central to the talks. The partnership aims to address growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific by fostering stronger defense ties and collaborative security frameworks.

On the cultural front, both leaders spoke about the long-standing historical connections between India and Indonesia, particularly through the shared epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata, and India’s contribution to the conservation of Indonesia’s Prambanan Hindu Temple. The strengthening of cultural exchanges will serve as a bridge for further deepening bilateral ties.

Further reinforcing the strategic relationship, President Prabowo Subianto expressed gratitude for India’s unwavering support in Indonesia’s independence struggle and India’s continued support for Indonesia’s membership in BRICS. He emphasized that both nations are aligned in their commitment to global stability and regional cooperation, and he reiterated that the partnership would benefit the broader Global South.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, setting the stage for a deeper and more dynamic India-Indonesia partnership in the years to come.

In a gesture of goodwill, President Prabowo also noted the Indonesian Embassy in India is located on land generously donated by the Indian government, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. He further expressed his honor in being invited as the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day, reflecting the warm ties that continue to flourish between the countries.

This strengthened partnership signals a new chapter in India-Indonesia relations, one poised to address both contemporary challenges and future opportunities on the global stage.

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During the interaction, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of national unity, diversity, and the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India). He encouraged participants to engage with people from different states, fostering a deeper sense of unity and solidarity. PM Modi also touched on the theme of perseverance, urging the attendees to not fear failure but to learn from it. “Never be scared of failure. There should be a spirit to learn from failure; whoever learns from failure achieves success,” he remarked, reinforcing the value of resilience and determination.

When asked about his own sources of inspiration, the Prime Minister drew strength from the tireless work of India’s farmers and soldiers. He shared, “I see farmers and feel how hard they work. I see soldiers standing guard at the borders for hours and think I don’t deserve the right to rest.” This sentiment reflected PM Modi’s unwavering commitment to a disciplined and hardworking lifestyle, which he credits as a cornerstone of his productivity.

The discussion also highlighted the role of responsible citizenship in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat. PM Modi urged the youth to take an active role in nation-building, stressing the importance of contributing to platforms like the My Bharat Portal. He advocated for the cultivation of good habits, including discipline, punctuality, and maintaining a daily diary, all of which contribute to personal and national growth.

The Prime Minister highlighted several government initiatives, particularly those aimed at empowering women. He spoke about the creation of 3 crore Lakhpati Didis (wealthy women), showcasing how such schemes have transformed lives and contributed to economic development. One participant shared a heartfelt story about their mother, whose products gained international recognition thanks to these initiatives. PM Modi also pointed to the success of the Digital India campaign, noting how affordable data rates have revolutionized connectivity and made digital services more accessible to the masses.

In terms of national cleanliness, the Prime Minister reiterated the significance of collective action. “If 140 crore Indians commit to maintaining cleanliness, India will always remain Swachh (clean),” he declared. He also championed the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, encouraging people to plant trees in honor of their mothers, further promoting environmental conservation.

The conversation concluded with a call to embrace physical well-being through the Fit India Movement, with PM Modi urging all participants to incorporate yoga and fitness routines into their daily lives for a healthier nation.

The event also saw foreign participants express their admiration for India’s warmth and hospitality, sharing their positive experiences from their visits to the country. This further reinforced the global appeal and significance of India’s rich culture and growing influence on the world stage.

Through this engaging interaction, Prime Minister Modi not only outlined his vision for a Viksit Bharat but also inspired the next generation to take responsibility for the country’s progress, fostering a collective commitment to the nation’s future.

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Emphasis on Unfair Means Rules (UFM)

The CBSE has reiterated the need for schools to brief students about the “Unfair Means Rules” (UFM), outlining prohibited actions that can compromise the integrity of the examination process. Key among these is the possession and use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, and other communication tools within the examination centre. Violating these rules can lead to severe penalties, including the cancellation of both the current year’s and next year’s exams.

Schools have been instructed to ensure that both students and their parents are fully aware of the UFM guidelines, including the heavy consequences of engaging in such unethical practices. On the exam day, school officials will remind students to leave any barred items at home or outside the exam centre.

What Students Are Allowed to Bring

For a smooth examination experience, students are allowed to carry the following items to the exam centre:

• Admit Card and School Identity Card (for regular students)
• Admit Card and Any Government Issued Photo Identity Proof (for private students)
• Stationery items in a Transparent Pouch, such as a geometry/pencil box, blue or royal blue ink/ballpoint/gel pen, scale, writing pad, and eraser
• An Analogue Watch
• A Transparent Water Bottle
• Metro Card, Bus Pass, and Money

What Students Must NOT Bring

The CBSE has also outlined a list of items strictly prohibited during the exams. Any student found carrying the following items will be treated under the “Unfair Means” category, facing possible disciplinary action:

• Stationery items containing textual material (written or printed), calculators, or any electronic devices like mobile phones, Bluetooth earphones, smartwatches, or cameras
• Personal items like wallets, goggles, handbags, or pouches
• Eatable items (except for diabetic students who may carry prescribed food)
• Items that could potentially be used for cheating

Dress Code for CBSE Board Exams

To maintain uniformity and discipline, CBSE has specified a dress code for students appearing for the 2025 board exams. Regular students are required to wear their school uniform, while private students are expected to wear light, simple clothes. This is to ensure that there are no distractions or issues that could compromise the exam environment.

With the CBSE Board Exams approaching, it is crucial for all students to familiarize themselves with these guidelines to avoid any inconvenience or penalties. Schools are urged to share these important instructions with their students and parents to promote a smooth and fair examination process for all.

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