“SPORTS”

Anahat Singh clinches U-17 Girl’s Singles title at British Junior Open

In Squash, India’s Anahat Singh has clinched the Under 17 Girl’s Singles title at the British Junior Open in Birmingham, England. The 16-year-old top-seed Indian defeated Malika El Karaksy of Egypt, 3-2 in the summit clash. Anahat came from behind twice to secure the win with scores of 4-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-5, and 11-3. The victory marks Anahat’s third British Junior Open title, following her triumphs in the Under-11 category in 2019 and the Under-15 category in 2023.

The 38th National Games Torch ‘Tejaswini’

The 38th National Games will be hosted by Uttarakhand for the first time, marking a significant event in the state’s sports history. The torch, named ‘Tejaswini,’ has begun its journey across the state, spreading excitement and awareness about the games. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the torch rally from Haldwani, and it is expected to cover 3,823 km, visiting 99 locations in 13 districts before reaching the capital, Dehradun. The National Games will take place from January 28 to February 14, 2025, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun.

 “APPOINTMENTS”

Bahadur Singh Sagoo Elected as AFI President

Asian Games gold medalist and Padma Shri awardee Bahadur Singh Sagoo has been elected unanimously as the new president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). His election took place during the two-day Annual General Meeting in Chandigarh. Sagoo, who won gold in shot put at the 2002 Asian Games, takes over from outgoing president Adille Sumariwalla, who stepped down after serving three consecutive terms.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

BMCRI to Set Up South India’s First Infectious Disease Research Lab

Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) has been selected by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to establish South India’s first Infectious Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (IRDL). This initiative aims to enhance the diagnostic and research capabilities for infectious diseases in the region. The laboratory will focus on diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites, facilitating faster diagnosis and improving healthcare outcomes.

Banded Royal Butterfly Discovered in Tripura

The Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra) has recently been discovered in Tripura, marking a significant milestone in the state’s biodiversity documentation. This rare species was spotted for the first time in the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, an area rich in flora and fauna. The discovery underscores the importance of ongoing ecological research and wildlife protection in the region. The Banded Royal butterfly, known for its unique appearance, is now officially documented in the peer-reviewed journal Munis Entomology & Zoology.

PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Boosting Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity

The Z-Morh tunnel, set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 13, 2024, marks a significant step in creating a year-round strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh. The tunnel is critical for ensuring continuous access to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, which was previously inaccessible during the winter months due to snow and avalanches. Built under the Thajiwas Glacier, it bypasses landslide-prone areas and includes an intelligent traffic management system to enhance safety and control vehicle flow.

Hanoi Declared World’s Most Polluted City

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has recently been identified as the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels reaching 266 micrograms per cubic meter. This alarming air quality has raised significant health concerns among residents and prompted government action.