Bangladesh Summons Indian Envoy Over Border Fencing Dispute
Bangladesh has summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma following rising tensions over border security measures. Dhaka expressed concerns over India’s attempts to build fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangla border, which Bangladesh claims violates a bilateral agreement. The dispute escalated after Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that India had paused the fencing project due to objections from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and local residents.
Following a meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin, Verma emphasized India’s commitment to ensuring a crime-free border, addressing smuggling, criminal activity, and trafficking. He reassured that the BSF and BGB were in communication to maintain security and resolve issues cooperatively.
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Indian Railways Enhances Infrastructure and Introduces Special Trains for Pilgrims
Indian Railways is gearing up for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela with extensive preparations, including Rs 5,000 crore investment in infrastructure. Key upgrades involve doubling railway lines, building new platforms, and constructing a bridge over the Ganga. To manage the influx of pilgrims, centralized ‘war rooms’ at Prayagraj Junction and the Railway Board will monitor operations 24/7. Special trains, including three between Katra and Prayagraj, will run to accommodate pilgrims. Passenger convenience is prioritized with color-coded holding areas, multilingual announcements, and special arrangements for elderly travelers.
California Wildfires Update: 24 Dead, Thousands Homeless as Critical Fire Weather Continues
California’s wildfires have claimed 24 lives, with many still missing, and over 12,000 structures damaged or destroyed. Six simultaneous wildfires have ravaged Los Angeles County, fueled by dangerous dry winds from inland deserts. Thousands remain displaced as firefighters battle fierce flames with aerial water drops and land crews working to protect populated areas like Brentwood. Critical-fire weather conditions are expected to impact more than 7.7 million people.
Shahi Snan Days and Record Crowds Expected During Major Bathing Festivals
The upcoming bathing festivals in 2025, marking significant spiritual events, are set to draw millions of devotees. Six key auspicious days, including Paush Purnima, Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Magh Purnima, and Maha Shivaratri, have been declared by astrologers. Among them, 14 January (Makar Sankranti), 29 January (Mauni Amavasya), and 3 February (Basant Panchami) will see the Shahi Snan, a royal bath, where Naga sadhus will participate. The largest gathering is expected on 29 January, with a staggering 50-60 million worshippers expected to bathe, highlighting the scale of this spiritual gathering.
