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The current King of Puri is Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb The heritage of Odisha is rich with culture, tradition, and royal legacy. Among the most prominent royal lineages in India is that of the Gajapati Kings of Puri , the custodians of the revered Jagannath Temple . The current King of Puri is Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb , a highly respected and spiritual figure known for his deep devotion and dedication to Lord Jagannath. Who is Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb? Born into the royal family of Puri, Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb became the Gajapati Maharaja in 1970 following the demise of his father. Though the monarchy in India no longer holds political power, the title of Gajapati still carries immense religious and cultural significance in Odisha. He is not just a symbolic figure; he plays a crucial ceremonial role in all important rituals of the Jagannath Temple in Puri , especially during the famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) . Role of the Gajapati Maharaja in Ja...

At the 7th Helicopter and Small Aircraft Summit in Pune, the Civil Aviation Minister announced a new Helicopter Directorate under DGCA to boost India's regional air connectivity and rotorcraft operations. Civil Aviation Minister Unveils New Helicopter Directorate Under DGCA at Pune Summit In a significant step towards enhancing regional air connectivity and promoting helicopter operations in India, the Civil Aviation Minister announced the creation of a dedicated Helicopter Directorate under DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) . This announcement was made at the 7th Helicopter and Small Aircraft Summit held in Pune, Maharashtra . Helicopter Directorate to streamline regulation, safety, and certification for rotorcraft operations. Aimed at promoting small aircraft and helicopter services in remote and underserved regions. Focus on improving the ease of doing business in India’s aviation sector. Part of the government's larger initiative under UDAN (Ude Desh ...

Introduction In a parliamentary form of government , the Chief Minister plays a pivotal role in the administration of a state. Although the Governor is the nominal executive authority , the Chief Minister is regarded as the real head of the state . This article explores the responsibilities, powers, and significance of the Chief Minister in India’s democratic framework. Chief Minister: The Real Executive Head In India, the Constitution provides for a parliamentary system at both the Union and State levels. Just as the Prime Minister is the head of the Central Government, the Chief Minister leads the executive at the State level. The Governor is the constitutional head of the state. The Chief Minister holds de facto power and is the head of the Council of Ministers . The Governor exercises executive powers only on the aid and advice of the Chief Minister and his Council. Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Minister Formation of the Council of Ministers The...

Introduction The Indian Presidency is often compared to ceremonial heads of state like the British monarch or the President of Germany. But is the Indian President truly just a figurehead? While the President of India does serve a largely ceremonial role under normal conditions, they also hold certain crucial powers that can significantly impact the functioning of Indian democracy. Let’s understand the nature of the Indian Presidency and examine the discretionary powers that make the position more than symbolic. Is the Indian President a Ceremonial Head? Under the parliamentary system of government , the President of India is the constitutional head of the state , much like the British monarch. The real executive powers lie with the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers . Article 74 of the Indian Constitution makes it mandatory for the President to act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. However, to say that the President is purely ceremonial would be inaccu...

The Konark Sun Temple , located in the state of Odisha, India , is one of the most iconic monuments of Indian heritage. Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God , this 13th-century architectural masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India's artistic brilliance and cultural depth. Historical Background Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, the Konark Sun Temple is designed in the shape of a giant chariot . This chariot has 12 intricately carved wheels and is pulled by seven horses , symbolizing the journey of the sun across the sky. The temple reflects the Kalinga style of architecture , known for its elaborate carvings, precise engineering, and spiritual symbolism. Architectural Brilliance The main structure was once over 200 feet tall , though much of it is now in ruins. The surviving Jagamohana (assembly hall) still showcases intricate stone carvings , sculptures of celestial beings, animals, warriors, and mythol...

The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country after the President. Over the years, several distinguished leaders have held this important position. But a common question often asked is: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and Mohammad Hamid Ansari are the only two individuals who have served two consecutive terms as Vice President of India. 1. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1952–1962) First Vice President of India.                                                Served from 1952 to 1962 , completing two terms Later became the second President of India A celebrated philosopher and statesman 2. Mohammad Hamid Ansari (2007–2017) Served as Vice President from 2007 to 2017 Held office under both UPA and NDA governments Former Indian diplomat and academic Re-elected in 2012 , becoming the second person to serve two co...

India, the world’s largest democracy, held its first general elections for the Lok Sabha in 1952 . This historic event laid the foundation for democratic governance in independent India and marked a major milestone in the political history of the nation.   First Lok Sabha Elections: Key Facts ✅ Year Held : 1951–1952 ✅ Final Results Declared : February 1952 ✅ Constitutional Basis : Conducted under the Constitution of India , which came into force on 26 January 1950 ✅ Total Seats : 489 Lok Sabha seats were contested ✅ Registered Voters : Over 173 million ✅ Voter Turnout : Approximately 45% ✅ Winning Party : Indian National Congress (INC) ✅ First Prime Minister Elected : Jawaharlal Nehru  What Is Lok Sabha? The Lok Sabha , also known as the House of the People , is the lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament. Members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people of India. The elections are held every five years through a democratic voting process. Histor...

Who Was the Viceroy of India at the Time of Partition in 1947? The Partition of India in 1947 was a defining moment in South Asian history, leading to the creation of two independent nations — India and Pakistan . At the center of this massive political and humanitarian event was Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last British Viceroy of India.                                                                             Lord Mountbatten: The Last Viceroy of British India Full Name : Louis Francis Albert Victor Nicholas Mountbatten Position : Last Viceroy of India (March 1947 – August 1947) Title after Independence : First Governor-General of Independent India (August 15, 1947 – June 1948) Lord Mountbatten was appointed as Viceroy with the primary mission of overseeing the transfer of power from British rul...

In a major move to improve road safety and create employment opportunities, the Central Government of India has announced the opening of 2000 new driving training schools across the country. The initiative, set to roll out in June 2025, aims to strengthen driver education and enhance skill development, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Highlights : Launch Date : June 2025 Total Schools : 2000 Objective : Road safety, skill development, employment Target Areas : Tier 2, Tier 3 cities and rural regions This large-scale initiative is part of the government's ongoing efforts to reduce road accidents by ensuring drivers receive professional and standardized training. Each driving training school will be equipped with modern infrastructure, certified trainers, and digital learning tools to provide high-quality education. Focus on Employment and Skill Development The Central Government driving training schools in June 2025 will not only train new drivers but also offer reskilling ...

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Receives Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III – Cyprus’ Highest Civilian Honour In a significant diplomatic milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with the highest civilian award of Cyprus – the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III. This prestigious honour reflects the strengthening of bilateral ties between India and Cyprus , as well as the international recognition of Prime Minister Modi’s global leadership and contributions to international cooperation. What is the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III? The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is the highest civilian award bestowed by the Republic of Cyprus. It is named after the country’s first President, Archbishop Makarios III, a pivotal figure in Cyprus’ independence and development. This honour is given to foreign heads of state and distinguished individuals who have significantly contributed to fostering strong international relations with Cyprus. Why Was Nar...