Gingee Fort Named UNESCO World Heritage Site
Gingee Fort, located in Tamil Nadu’s Villupuram district, has officially been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its impressive architecture, strategic military significance, and rich history, the fort is often called the “Troy of the East.” The designation recognizes its cultural and historical value, ensuring better conservation and international recognition. The site, which features rock-cut temples, granaries, and fortifications across three hillocks, will now receive global attention and increased tourism, boosting local economy and heritage preservation efforts.
MoS Pankaj Chaudhary Inaugurates Trade Facilitation Conference 2025
Minister of State Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurated the Trade Facilitation Conference 2025, focusing on streamlining customs procedures, enhancing logistics, and improving India’s ease of doing business. The event brought together stakeholders from government, industry, and international trade bodies to discuss policies that can boost exports and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. Key discussions included digitization of trade processes, infrastructure modernization, and boosting India’s competitiveness in global markets. The conference is part of India’s ongoing efforts to become a global manufacturing and export hub.
Uttarakhand to Plant Over 5 Lakh Saplings on Harela Festival
The government of Uttarakhand announced plans to plant over 5 lakh saplings as part of the Harela Festival, a local celebration of nature and greenery. The mass plantation drive reflects the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action. Schools, government offices, and citizens are participating in the initiative, which aims to preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. This annual campaign also promotes awareness about afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and the cultural importance of nature in local traditions.
Prasar Bharati Signs MoU to Promote Handball in India
Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote handball across the country. The partnership aims to increase the sport’s visibility through television and digital coverage, attracting more youth participation and sponsorship. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support underrepresented sports in India. By providing national media exposure to handball tournaments, the MoU hopes to develop grassroots talent and bring the sport into mainstream sporting culture.
SWFs and Pension Funds to Enjoy Tax Exemption Until 2030
The Indian government has extended the tax exemption for Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) and pension funds investing in key infrastructure sectors until 2030. This move aims to attract long-term, stable capital into India’s infrastructure development, including roads, ports, and renewable energy. The extension will offer policy certainty to foreign institutional investors, reinforcing India as a preferred investment destination. It also aligns with the government’s goal to build modern infrastructure while minimizing reliance on public funds.