Delhi-NCR shivers as cold wave intensifies; AQI 'very poor' in several areas

IANS | January 15, 2026 10:07 AM

New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) The Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) continues to grapple with an intense winter spell, as bone-chilling cold wave conditions persist, worsening both weather and air quality across the region. The situation in the national capital remains extremely concerning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 350 mark in several areas, placing air quality in the 'very poor' to 'severe' categories.

India's recreated 5th-century ‘stitched’ vessel in historic voyage revives ancient maritime ties with Oman

IANS | January 14, 2026 11:09 PM

New Delhi, Jan 14 (IANS) Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya has successfully completed its maiden voyage from Porbandar in Gujarat to Muscat, Oman, marking a milestone in India’s maritime diplomacy and cultural heritage revival. The stitched sail vessel, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and inspired by a fifth-century ship depicted in the Ajanta cave paintings, arrived in Muscat after a 17-day journey across the Arabian Sea.

Magh Mela 2026: Prayagraj witnesses massive pilgrim turnout

IANS | January 14, 2026 10:21 PM

Prayagraj, Jan 14 (IANS) The Magh Mela in Prayagraj is once again drawing huge crowds as devotees throng the Sangam to take a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, coinciding with Shattila Ekadashi. By 8 a.m. on Wednesday, around 15 lakh devotees had already immersed themselves in the confluence, with participants ranging from young children to elderly citizens.

Chhattisgarh: Solar power brings light to schools in Maoist-affected Mohla-Manpur

IANS | January 14, 2026 9:45 PM

Mohla-Manpur (Chhattisgarh), Jan 14 (IANS) Schools in the Naxal-affected forested regions of Mohla-Manpur, in Chhattisgarh, which had remained in darkness for years, are now glowing with light, thanks to the newly installed solar power plants. This development is providing a fresh direction to education in areas long challenged by insurgency and limited infrastructure.