Varanasi: UP CM gifts PM Modi unique ‘Shivling’ crafted in GI-tagged Kashi art

IANS | August 2, 2025 5:30 PM

Varanasi, Aug 2 (IANS) On the auspicious occasion of the Sawan (Shravan) month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with a remarkable piece of craftsmanship from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during his visit to Varanasi. The gift—a stunning ‘Shivling’ sculpture—showcases the rich heritage of Kashi’s Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged crafts and embodies deep spiritual symbolism.

Odisha CM disburses Rs 697 Crore under PM-KISAN, calls for inclusive growth, farmer empowerment

IANS | August 2, 2025 5:13 PM

Bhubaneswar, Aug 2 (IANS) In a major boost to farmers' welfare, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday disbursed the 20th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme to more than 34.85 lakh farmers across the state, releasing total assistance of Rs 697 crore. The disbursement event was held at the ICAR-CIFA campus on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar and marked the state-level observance of PM-Kisan Diwas.