India and the US kicked off a two-day naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal, reflecting the growing congruence in their defence and military partnership. The exercise, which began yesterday, will conclude today.

Indian Navy deployed its warship Shivalik and long-range maritime patrol aircraft P8I in the ‘PASSEX’ exercise while the US Navy was represented by the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group.

A carrier battle group or carrier strike group is a mega naval fleet comprising an aircraft carrier, accompanied by a large number of destroyers, frigates and other ships. In a first, enhancing jointmanship, Indian Air Force fighters have also been included in the exercise affording the IAF an opportunity to practice air interception and air defence with the US Navy.

The exercise came over a week after US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin flew into India as part of his three-nation first overseas tour that signalled the Joe Biden administration’s strong commitment to its relations with its close allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

During the visit, both sides resolved to further consolidate their robust defence cooperation through deeper military-to-military engagement with Austin describing the partnership as a stronghold of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A defence spokesperson said the exercise is aimed at consolidating the synergy and interoperability achieved during the Malabar exercise that took place in November last. esides the Indian Navy, US, Australian and Japanese navies participated in the Malabar naval exercise.

Holi, the festival of colours, is being celebrated throughout the country today. The festival is celebrated in the month of March which not only brings cheers to the people but also brings new lease of life to plants and animals. Holi marks the onset of Spring season.

Holi begins with Holika Dahan, a day prior to Holi. Like any other Hindu festival, Holi also marks the victory of good over evil. Holi gives the message of equality and fraternity as all the sections of society irrespective of caste, creed, colour, age, and sex celebrate it with great enthusiasm.

President Ram Nath Kovind has greeted the nation on the occasion of Holi. In his message, Mr Kovind said Holi is a festival of social harmony which celebrates joy, delight and hope in the lives of people. He added that it gives the message of social integration and fraternity.

At the same time, it also inspires people to come together in making a New India which is built on the foundation of amity, unity and harmony. The President hoped that this festival further strengthens the spirit of nationalism which is integral to India’s cultural diversity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of Holi. He hoped that the festival infuses joy and vigor to everyone’s life.

Election Commission has said that 56 bombs were recovered in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Saturday night. Bomb disposal squad has disposed off all the bombs.

An FIR was registered against one Tarun and unknown persons for involvement in the racket of manufacturing, transportation and illegal use of bombs. Investigation is continuing and all out efforts are being made to nab the involved miscreants.

The commission said, the huge recovery of bombs was possible due to strict vigil.

Maharashtra has recorded above 40,000 new COVID-19 cases. This is the highest single-day surge in the state since the pandemic outbreak last year. The previous highest single-day surge was 36,902 cases, which was recorded on Friday. Besides, 108 COVID-19 deaths were recorded in the day, taking the death toll to 54,181.

The case fatality rate in the state is 2 percent. The recovery rate in the state stands at 85.95 percent. The total number of active cases in Maharashtra is 3,25,901.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has asked senior officials of the State Health Department and the COVID task force to prepare for a lockdown as people continue to violate COVID-19 protocols. He appeal to the citizens of Maharashtra to cooperate to control on covid present situation.

President Ram Nath Kovind gave his assent to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, 2021. The Act provides that the term “government” referred to in any law made by the Legislative Assembly will imply Lieutenant Governor.

Parliament passed it last week. President Kovind also gave his assent to the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Act, 2021 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2021.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reasserted on the Mantra of Dawai bhi, Kadai bhi to fight Corona. Sharing his thoughts in the Mann Ki Baat programme of All India Radio today, he appealed to the people to remain committed to this Mantra. He also appealed to every eligible person to take the Covid-19 vaccine. Mr Modi said, it’s a matter of honour for everyone that today India is running the world’s largest vaccination programme.

The Prime Minister recalled that the Amrit Mahotsav to mark 75 years of Independence began from the day of Dandi Yatra and will continue till 15th August, 2023. He urged citizens to bring to fore the saga of freedom fighters and the historical and cultural importance of a place during Amrit Mahotsav to connect the country.

The Prime Minister said, the Women’s Day in March, came at a time when many women players set new records and won medals. He cited the example of Mithali Raaj who has become the first Indian woman cricketer to score ten thousand runs in international cricket.  

The Prime Minister lauded India’s excellent performance at the ISSF World Cup shooting in New Delhi where it topped the Gold Medals tally. Mr. Modi spoke how P V Sindhu won the Silver Medal in the BWF Swiss Open Super 300 Tournament.

The Prime Minister called for novelty and modernization in all fields of life, otherwise it becomes a burden at times. Mr Modi highlighted that the light houses are unique in terms of tourism and their grand structures have always been centres of attraction for people. He said, to promote tourism, 71 light houses have been identified in India.

The Prime Minister greeted people for Holi, New Year Celebrations of  Ugadi, Tamil Puthandu, Gudi Padwa, Bihu, Navreh, Poila Boishakh, Baisakhi and Vishu, Navratri, Ram Navmi, Easter and Ambedkar Jayanti.