Hirok Patel from Odisha featured in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ for pond-based farming innovation

IANS | February 22, 2026 7:33 PM

Bhubaneswar, Feb 22 (IANS) Odisha farmer Hirok Patel, whose ingenuity Prime Minister Narendra Modi had lauded in his latest 'Mann Ki Baat', has transformed limited land into a high-yield farming mode by combining modern techniques with traditional knowledge to successfully double his income, while inspiring farmers across the country to innovate and optimise resources.

Holi sales likely to record 25 per cent jump at Rs 80,000 crore: CAIT

IANS | February 22, 2026 7:20 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said on Sunday that the upcoming Holi festival is expected to generate business exceeding Rs 80,000 crore across India this year, reflecting a growth of nearly 25 per cent compared to last year's estimated Rs 60,000 crore.

Pakistan poverty rate hits 11-year high at 29 pc: Report

IANS | February 22, 2026 7:14 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Poverty in Pakistan has risen to its highest level in 11 years, with nearly 29 per cent of the population now living below the poverty line, according to an official survey released by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal.

PM’s 'Mann Ki Baat' boosts organ donation awareness: NOTTO chief

IANS | February 22, 2026 7:03 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Emphasising the life-saving impact of organ donation, National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) Director Anil Kumar on Sunday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal in the latest episode of Mann Ki Baat as a “noble campaign” that can transform public awareness and participation across the country.