An Iron Age menhir, known locally as ‘Niluvu Rayi’, located in Kamasanpalli village of Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, is facing neglect and potential destruction. Believed to have been erected around 1500 BCE as a memorial, possibly for an important individual, the menhir stands as a testament to ancient funerary practices. However, the 8-foot-tall granite structure is leaning eastward and is at risk due to ongoing agricultural activities in the surrounding field. Local farmers have revealed that several Iron Age burial sites, marked by circular boulder formations, have already been cleared during land reclamation. Archaeologist E. Sivanagireddy, who visited the site, expressed concern about the menhir’s condition and highlighted the need for its preservation. This discovery underscores the importance of protecting these ancient sites and ensuring their survival for future generations.
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Tamil Nadu to Establish International Dugong Conservation Centre
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is constructing an International Dugong Conservation Centre (IDCC) at Manora, Thanjavur district, to protect the endangered Dugong species and its habitat in the Palk Bay. The center, funded by the TN-SHORE initiative, will serve as a hub for conservation research, knowledge sharing, and community awareness. It will feature a Dugong-shaped main building, a museum, a monitoring lab, a seagrass ecology lab, a tunnel aquarium, and interactive displays. The IDCC will also focus on sustainable livelihoods for the local community through eco-tourism and incorporate water recycling systems and solar power. The project, estimated to cost â¹41 crore, is expected to be completed in two years and will require CRZ clearance from the state government. The center aims to address threats to Dugongs, including boat collisions, entanglement in fishing nets, habitat degradation, and climate change, through conservation strategies such as establishing marine protected areas and raising awareness.
India and Sri Lanka Collaborate on Maritime Security in Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar
On November 6, Indian and Sri Lankan naval officers met aboard the SLNS Vijayabahu in the Palk Bay to discuss issues related to maritime security in the region. The meeting, known as the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting, focused on enhancing cooperation to ensure the safety of fishermen, address security concerns in the Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar, and strengthen maritime collaboration between the two nations. Rear Admiral R.K. Dhingra of the Indian Navy and Rear Admiral S.J. Kumara of the Sri Lankan Navy led the discussions, highlighting the importance of joint efforts to maintain peace and stability in the shared maritime space.
A Legacy of Empowerment: Kulasekarapattinam’s Journey from Sleepy Village to Hub of Women’s Education
Kulasekarapattinam, a coastal town near Thoothukudi, is known for its Mutharamman Temple and a proposed rocket launchpad. However, its journey to fame began 120 years ago with the establishment of a girls’ school in 1904 by Chettikulam Deivanayagam, known as CD Nayagam. A pioneer in women’s education and a close friend of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, Nayagam’s school, named after his wife Thayammal, adopted unique teaching methods that drew attention from the British government and the Indian Social Reformer. Nayagam’s commitment to empowering women from oppressed classes led him to introduce free meals, a residential school, and communal reservation in admissions. In 1947, he established a teachers’ training institute, Valliammaiar Hindu Teachers’ Training Institute, which empowered generations of women. Despite facing challenges from the proliferation of English medium schools, the schools continue to serve the community, offering Tamil medium education and meals to students from weaker sections.
Kodappana: A Rare Palm Tree Illuminates Kerala’s Landscape
The quaint village of Panamkutty in Idukki, Kerala, is experiencing a unique spectacle as the rare Kodappana trees bloom, attracting tourists on their way to Munnar. The Kodappana, or talipot palm, is a monocarpic species, meaning it flowers only once in its lifetime, typically after 40-90 years, and then dies. This magnificent palm boasts the world’s largest inflorescence, with over two crore small flowers, and its massive, umbrella-like leaves can shelter up to 20 people. The Kodappana plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, providing food for wildlife and serving as a source of starch for communities in the past. Despite its cultural and ecological significance, the Kodappana is classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN due to a lack of population studies. The presence of numerous place names in Kerala, like Panamkutty, Kattappana, and Kudappanakkunnu, reflects the once widespread presence of this remarkable palm, highlighting its enduring impact on the region’s history and environment.
Bengaluru Unveils First Digital Population Clock
Bengaluru’s Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) will inaugurate the city’s first digital population clock on November 8th. This joint project between ISEC and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) will display real-time population estimates for Karnataka and India, updating every 1 minute 10 seconds and 2 seconds respectively. The clock aims to raise awareness about population growth and provide researchers with accurate data. It features a satellite connection for precise timekeeping and operates autonomously. Alongside the clock, a Census Data Research Workstation has been established, offering researchers and students access to comprehensive census data for in-depth demographic analysis. This initiative is part of a nationwide program by MoHFW to set up population clocks and research workstations in 18 Population Research Centers across India.
Bidar: A Legacy of Power, Learning, and Architectural Splendor
The article explores the historical significance of Bidar, a city in Karnataka, India, which served as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate for over a century. The shift of the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in 1422 by Ahmad Shah I was a strategic move, offering better administrative control, security due to its hilly terrain, and access to trade routes. Despite facing internal strife, Ahmad Shah I fostered a flourishing intellectual environment, attracting scholars from across the world and establishing the renowned Mahmud Gawan Madrasa. The article highlights the architectural marvels of the Bidar Fort, including the Rangeen Mahal, Takht Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, and Solah Khamba Masjid, showcasing the fusion of Persian, Arabic, and Indian architectural styles. It also delves into the contributions of Khaja Mahmud Gawan, a prominent minister who introduced administrative reforms, promoted education, and boosted trade during the 15th century. The article concludes by describing the Ashtur Tombs, the royal necropolis of ten Bahmani rulers, showcasing the grandeur of Deccani and Asian art. The article emphasizes the rich history and cultural heritage of Bidar, highlighting its importance as a center of power, learning, and architectural excellence.
TDP Leaders Advocate for Exclusive Industrial Policy for SC/ST Entrepreneurs in Andhra Pradesh
TDP representatives, including Rajam MLA Kondru Muralimohan and Parvatipuram legislator Bonela Vijayachandra, have urged Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to implement an exclusive industrial policy aimed at supporting entrepreneurs from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. They specifically requested this policy to encourage the establishment of industries in the backward districts of Parvatipuram-Manyam and Vizianagaram. The representatives highlighted the need for financial assistance, including capital subsidies, exemption from stamp and transfer duties, significant discounts on land costs, reduced electricity charges, and reimbursement of interest and taxes. Mr. Naidu reportedly responded positively to the suggestions and promised to discuss the proposals with relevant ministers and officials. The TDP leaders believe that such a policy would stimulate industrial growth in the region, particularly in Rajam, where Mr. Murali represents.
Andhra Pradesh Minister Encourages Students to Pursue Higher Education at International Fair
Minister Nara Lokesh, addressing students at the first International Higher Education Fair (IHEF-2024) in Andhra Pradesh, emphasized the importance of higher education in shaping the future and highlighted the government’s commitment to making quality education accessible to all. He praised VIT-AP University’s efforts in promoting global academic opportunities and interacted with delegates from over 50 universities from various countries. The fair provided students with a platform to explore international study programs, interact with university representatives, and learn about scholarship options. VIT founder G. Viswanathan stressed the need for increased government funding for higher education, citing the National Education Policy’s recommendation of allocating 6% of GDP to this sector, mirroring the investment levels of developed nations.
APSEEDCO Conducts Training on Urjaveer Energy Efficiency Program for Electricians
The AP State Energy Efficiency Development Corporation Limited (APSEEDCO) organized a training session on the “Urjaveer” program for electricians in collaboration with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) and the Director of Electrical Safety of the Government of Andhra Pradesh. The Urjaveer program, launched by EESL, aims to promote energy efficiency and conservation in India by encouraging the sale of six types of energy-efficient appliances through the eeslmart.in portal. The training session, held at Vidyut Soudha, was attended by Director of Electrical Safety G. Vijaya Lakshmi, EESL AP State head N. Pavan Kumar, and other officials. The program aims to educate electricians about the Urjaveer program and its benefits, enabling them to effectively promote energy-efficient appliances and contribute to the overall energy conservation efforts in the state.