India - Loktej English

Formal commencement of Amarnath Yatra, Lieutenant Governor flagged off the first batch from Jammu

Loktej English Team — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:11:37 +0530

On July 2, Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Shri Amarnath Yatra from Jammu, marking the formal commencement of this annual pilgrimage. Before sending off the pilgrims, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed a prayer.

Present at the occasion were MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma, and BJP MLA Arvind Gupta. Manoj Sinha posted on the social media platform 'X' that the journey to the sacred abode of Baba Barfani has begun. He stated that the journey of Shri Amarnath Ji is a spiritual awakening, and every step taken on this sacred path is a testament to unwavering faith and devotion towards Baba Amarnath.

He wished for a safe, auspicious, and spiritually fulfilling journey for all pilgrims. BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma noted that this year, the number of pilgrims appears to be higher than before, and the administration has made all necessary arrangements, especially the Municipal Corporation, Tourism Department, Police, and several other government agencies working tirelessly to ensure all facilities for the pilgrims. He urged everyone to come and seek the blessings of Baba Barfani.

Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma expressed that there is enthusiasm and excitement among the pilgrims for the Amarnath Yatra, which will continue until August 28. He described the Amarnath Yatra as a unique pilgrimage, stating that there is no other pilgrimage like it in the world. BJP MLA Arvind Gupta expressed pride in having the opportunity to flag off the Amarnath Yatra alongside Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, noting the unique enthusiasm among the pilgrims and the festive atmosphere in Jammu city.

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UPI Transactions Increased by 23 Percent in June, Value Around ₹29 Lakh Crore

Loktej English Team — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:58:51 +0530

New Delhi, July 1. Transactions through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) increased by 23 percent year-on-year in June, reaching 22.72 billion.

During this period, their value rose by 20 percent to ₹28.92 lakh crore. This information was provided in data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on Wednesday. On average, there were 75.7 crore UPI transactions per day in June, with an average daily transaction value of ₹96,405 crore.

In May, the number of UPI transactions was 23.20 billion, and their value was ₹29.90 lakh crore. On average, UPI processed about 74.8 crore transactions daily in May, with an average daily transaction value of approximately ₹96,465 crore. Launched ten years ago to connect the common man to the digital payment ecosystem, UPI now facilitates millions of transactions daily across India.

The number of UPI transactions was just 2 crore in the financial year 2016-17, which increased to over 24,162 crore in the financial year 2025-26. UPI is now available in more than eight countries, including UAE, Singapore, France, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka, strengthening India's presence in the global fintech sector. Following the recent launch of UPI in Greece, customers can now send money instantly, securely, and easily, with transaction costs significantly lower than traditional methods.

Last month, while discussing the future of payment systems in the United States, American lawmakers cited India's UPI as an example, illustrating how modern public payment infrastructure can promote innovation in the private sector. During this discussion, fintech companies urged Congress to make significant changes to the rules regarding access to the U.S. payment network. This comparison with India was made during a hearing of the 'House Financial Services Committee' on 'Financial Institutions', where lawmakers considered whether the U.S. should modernize its regulatory framework to allow eligible non-bank payment companies to access the Federal Reserve's payment infrastructure directly, rather than relying on traditional banking intermediaries.

When Our Resolutions, Thoughts, and Emotions Align, Every Task Succeeds: Prime Minister Modi

Loktej English Team — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:23:05 +0530

New Delhi, June 30. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a Sanskrit quote on the social media platform 'X' on Tuesday.

In his post, he mentioned that when our resolutions, thoughts, and emotions align, every task succeeds. He urged everyone to move forward with unity and achieve every goal of India together. The Prime Minister also shared a Sanskrit verse that emphasizes the importance of having similar resolutions, being united in assembly, and having complete equality in hearts and thoughts.

He expressed that with this feeling of unity, he offers his contribution so that we can work together and achieve success. The previous day, on Monday, the Prime Minister had written in a post that respecting the diverse cultures of the world enhances trust and cooperation among people, strengthening mutual understanding and brotherhood. He shared another Sanskrit verse that highlights the development of discernment in individuals who understand various cultures, traditions, and social norms.

Such individuals earn respect wherever they go and establish their influence among the esteemed. Earlier, on June 26, the Prime Minister had shared another quote on the social media platform 'X', urging everyone to walk together, speak in harmony, and align their minds and thoughts, just as the deities in ancient times performed their duties in unison.

Facility to Generate Life Certificate for Elderly Pensioners from Home, Verification to be Completed in Minutes via Mobile App

Loktej English Team — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:44:59 +0530

Hyderabad, June 29. Pensioners are required to submit a life certificate every year to receive their pension without interruption.

Now, elderly individuals no longer need to stand in long queues at banks or government offices. Under the central government's digital initiative, pensioners can now generate their Digital Life Certificate (DLC) from the comfort of their homes in just a few minutes using the 'Jeevan Pramaan' or 'Umang' app on their smartphones. This technology is particularly convenient for sick and disabled pensioners.

To simplify the process, the government has implemented 'Face Authentication' technology, eliminating the need for any external biometric or fingerprint scanner devices. Pensioners only need to install the 'Aadhaar FaceRD' app along with the 'Jeevan Pramaan' or 'Umang' app on their Android phones. For the application, a PPO number, bank account details, and an active mobile number are required.

The verification process is completed as soon as the face is scanned in front of the camera. Upon completion of the process, a confirmation message is sent to the pensioner's registered mobile number, along with the immediate availability of a digital receipt. Additionally, pensioners can easily download a PDF copy of the digital life certificate using their 'Pramaan ID'.

This digital certificate is sent directly to the relevant pension distribution agency, eliminating the need for physical documents. This facility provides pensioners with a secure and transparent experience while protecting them from harsh weather and physical discomfort.

Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor begins annual Amarnath Yatra with 'Pratham Pooja

Loktej English Team — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 19:24:18 +0530

Srinagar, June 29. Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed the 'Pratham Pooja' at the holy Amarnath cave temple in South Kashmir on Monday, marking the formal commencement of this year's Amarnath Yatra.

In view of the Amarnath Yatra starting on July 3, Lieutenant Governor Sinha stated that the administration, Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, army, police, security forces, local community, service providers, and volunteers are all working together in a spirit of coordination. Sinha wrote on his official 'X' handle that he was fortunate to perform the 'Pratham Pooja' in the holy cave of Shri Amarnath Ji, marking the formal beginning of the annual Amarnath Yatra. He prayed for peace, prosperity, good health, and happiness for all from Baba Barfani.

He mentioned that all stakeholders are working diligently to ensure a safe, convenient, and memorable journey for the pilgrims. With significant improvements in infrastructure, better facilities, and the invaluable support of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, they are fully prepared to welcome the pilgrims, ensuring a spiritually satisfying journey experience. He prayed that Baba Amarnath Ji continues to bless everyone.

Seychelles Honors Modi with Highest Award 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon

Loktej English Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:22:22 +0530

New Delhi, June 28. Seychelles awarded Prime Minister Narendra Modi with its highest honor, 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', on Sunday.

This honor was presented to Mr. Modi after bilateral talks with President Patrick Herminie during his three-day visit to Seychelles. The award recognizes Mr. Modi's leadership in environmental protection and sustainable development. After receiving the honor, Mr. Modi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people, government, and President Herminie of Seychelles for bestowing upon him the title of 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon'.

He humbly accepted the award and dedicated it to all countries facing the challenges of climate change and those who consider environmental protection their responsibility towards future generations. He stated that this is a very serious challenge that we must face and resolve together. India is committed to making the world greener and more sustainable.

He mentioned that this commitment is clearly reflected in various domestic programs like the 'LIFE Mission (Lifestyle for Environment)' and global initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure Coalition. This latest honor is part of a series of global recognitions for Mr. Modi's work in climate change, sustainable development, and green growth. Just last month, the 'Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations' awarded Mr. Modi with the 'Agricola Medal' for strengthening food security, transforming the agricultural sector, and promoting sustainable farming.

Previously, in 2018, he was awarded the 'Seoul Peace Prize' for promoting sustainable economic development, global cooperation, and inclusive growth. In the same year, the United Nations honored him with the prestigious 'Champions of the Earth Award'.

The Impact of Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and UPI: Transactions Increased from 2 Crore to 24,162 Crore

Loktej English Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:20:02 +0530

New Delhi, June 28. In 10 years, UPI has created a new history in online transactions.

The Prime Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana, Aadhaar, and Mobile (JAM) revolution have transformed the entire country. An official factsheet stated that UPI, which started as a simple digital payment platform 10 years ago, has now become the backbone of everyday digital transactions in India. In the financial year 2016-17, there were only 2 crore transactions through UPI, while in the financial year 2025-26, this number has increased to over 24,162 crore.

The statement mentioned that Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile have significantly changed the system of financial inclusion and delivering government benefits directly to people in India. Through this initiative, millions have been connected to the formal banking system and have gained easy and transparent access to government services. The momentum gained through the Prime Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana has led to rapid expansion of banking services across the country.

The number of Jan Dhan accounts increased from 14.72 crore in March 2015 to 57.78 crore by February 2026. During this period, the deposits in these accounts rose from 15,670 crore rupees to 2.94 lakh crore rupees. According to the factsheet, Aadhaar has provided secure and quick digital identification in the country.

The Aadhaar enrollment was only 0.42 crore in 2010-11, which increased to over 144 crore by March 2026. This has made digital authentication more secure and easier than before. Mobile connectivity has strengthened the JAM Trinity and increased access to digital services across the country.

By March 2026, 85.5 percent of households in India had at least one smartphone, while over 1.09 billion people were using the internet. Together, these three initiatives have laid a strong foundation for an inclusive governance model in Digital India. By June 2026, over 51 lakh crore rupees have been directly transferred to the accounts of 176 crore beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), enhancing transparency and ensuring that the benefits of government schemes reach people quickly.

DigiLocker has brought a significant change by providing secure digital documents instead of paper documents. By March 2026, over 70.69 crore users had registered on this platform, and more than 850 crore digital documents had been issued, making document verification faster, paperless, and more reliable. The statement noted that the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has made the government procurement process more transparent, faster, and fully digital.

By June 2026, a total gross merchandise value (GMV) of over 18.4 lakh crore rupees has been recorded on GeM, including 5 lakh crore rupees during the financial year 2025-26. This platform has provided access to government markets for over 11 lakh micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Operation Sindoor: Names of Martyr Soldiers to be Immortalized at National War Memorial

Loktej English Team — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 12:55:47 +0530

The Indian Army conducted 'Operation Sindoor' last year against terrorists hiding in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan. In this successful operation, six brave soldiers of the Indian forces made the ultimate sacrifice.

The names of these martyrs will now be inscribed at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. All six martyrs' names will be engraved on granite bricks at the National War Memorial. The names of the martyrs have been made public on the National War Memorial's website.

Among the martyrs are five soldiers from the Indian Army and one sergeant from the Indian Air Force. Two of the martyrs have also been honored by the government for their bravery. Rifleman Sunil Kumar was posthumously awarded the Veer Chakra, and Sergeant Surendra Kumar was posthumously awarded the Vayu Sena Medal.

The brave soldiers who were martyred in Operation Sindoor include Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, Rifleman Sunil Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, Agniveer Mood Murli Naik, Havildar Sunil Kumar Singh, and Sergeant Surendra Kumar from the Indian Air Force. The names of these six brave soldiers, who made the supreme sacrifice while defending the country, have been officially made public. The names of the martyrs are being inscribed on the new National War Memorial, ensuring that their sacrifice will always remain alive in the memories of the nation.

Among these six martyrs, two have been awarded military honors for their extraordinary bravery. Rifleman Sunil Kumar was awarded the Veer Chakra posthumously, which is the country's third-highest wartime bravery award, while Sergeant Surendra Kumar was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal. According to reports, during the operation, Rifleman Sunil Kumar was stationed along the Line of Control, where he attained martyrdom while performing his duty.

On June 8, during the Defense Decoration Ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu posthumously awarded him the Veer Chakra, which was received by his parents, Sudesh Kumari and Yash Pal. The names of these heroes of Operation Sindoor have been made public along with the list of all soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various military operations during the year 2025. It is noteworthy that the 'Tyag Chakra' of the National War Memorial is dedicated to the martyrs of the country.

It consists of 16 circular granite walls, each brick of which bears the names, ranks, and units of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the country after independence. Now, the names of these six brave sons of Operation Sindoor will also become a permanent part of this glorious memorial.

The sacrifice of these brave soldiers, who laid down their lives for the security and honor of the country, will always inspire the nation. India pays respectful homage to their courage, dedication, and supreme sacrifice.

SGADF’s Growing Role in Sports Development: Creating Opportunities for Athletes and Building Trust Through Sports Certification

Loktej English Team — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:16:33 +0530

New Delhi [India], June 26: Established in 2017, the School Games and Activity Development Foundation (SGADF) has emerged as one of India’s active sports development organizations, working to strengthen grassroots sports, provide opportunities to athletes, and promote a strong sporting culture across the country. Over the past nine years, the organization has connected millions of athletes, students, coaches, educational institutions, and sports organizations through various sports development initiatives.

Sports experts believe that SGADF has gone far beyond organizing competitions. The organization has developed athlete record systems, certification programs, talent identification initiatives, sports education activities, training camps, national and international championships, and awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging sports participation among youth.

SGADF Certificates Becoming a Valuable Asset for Athletes

One of the most discussed aspects of SGADF’s work has been its sports certification and athlete documentation system. The organization issues Form-1, Form-2, Form-3, Form-4, National Certificates, International Certificates, and International Diplomas, which are designed to maintain structured records of athlete participation and achievements.

According to the organization, more than 15,000 athletes and students have approached SGADF for verification and validation of sports records and certificates. Sports professionals emphasize that maintaining proper records of participation, performance, and achievements is becoming increasingly important for athletes seeking educational opportunities, scholarships, sports recognition, and future career development.

SGADF states that thousands of athletes have utilized its certificates and sports records for various purposes, including sports-related documentation, educational applications, and showcasing their sporting achievements. As a result, the usefulness and value of SGADF certificates have become a widely discussed topic within the sports community.

Appreciation for Sports Development Efforts

In an official communication issued in October 2025, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports highlighted the importance of organizations working in the areas of sports development, athlete training, sports competitions, and youth participation.

Within that broader context, SGADF states that its efforts in promoting sports, supporting athlete development, organizing competitions, and strengthening sports culture were appreciated. Sports observers believe that recognition of grassroots sports-development initiatives reflects the growing importance of organizations that contribute to athlete development across India.

The organization also notes that its athlete documentation system and sports record management framework have played a significant role in helping athletes maintain structured records of their sporting achievements.

Recognition in Tamil Nadu

SGADF’s contribution has also received attention in Tamil Nadu, where officials associated with the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu have acknowledged the organization’s efforts in promoting sports participation.

Particular appreciation has been directed toward SGADF’s work in disciplines such as Silambam, Yoga, Karate, and other traditional sports. Sports experts note that the organization has provided opportunities to thousands of athletes across Tamil Nadu and has helped connect local talent to district, state, national, and international platforms.

According to sports observers, SGADF’s athlete-record and certification framework has also contributed to building confidence among athletes participating in various sports-development activities.

SGADF Athlete Reaches the Asian Games Stage

One of the most significant success stories associated with SGADF is Jyoti Yadav, who is preparing to represent India at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.

Members of the sports community view her journey as an inspiring example of how talented athletes can rise from grassroots participation to elite international competition when provided with opportunities, guidance, and exposure.

SGADF states that creating international pathways for athletes remains one of its primary objectives.

Continuous Engagement With Sports Leadership

SGADF Founder Shivam Thakur, himself an international athlete, has remained actively involved in sports-development discussions across India.

Between 2018 and 2026, he reportedly met various Union Sports Ministers, state sports ministers, sports administrators, and government officials to discuss athlete welfare, grassroots sports development, talent identification, sports infrastructure, and long-term strategies for strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem.

According to sports experts, SGADF’s core philosophy has always been centered on increasing athlete exposure, creating opportunities, and helping talented players reach national and international platforms.

Growing Expectations Around NSPO Recognition

Sports circles have increasingly discussed the possibility of SGADF playing a larger role within India’s National Sports Promotion Organisation (NSPO) framework in the future.

Experts believe that organizations actively engaged in grassroots sports development, athlete participation, educational sports programs, and talent promotion can make significant contributions to India’s sports ecosystem. SGADF’s work across schools, colleges, districts, states, and international platforms has positioned it as a notable contributor to sports promotion activities.

Many observers believe that any future expansion of SGADF’s role in national sports-promotion initiatives could create additional opportunities and benefits for athletes across the country.

Contribution Through Associated Sports Bodies

In addition to SGADF’s direct activities, several associated sports-development organizations continue to contribute toward athlete development and sports promotion, including:

• National Sports Development Federation

• School Games and Activity Federation of India

• Students Games and Activity Federation

These organizations conduct competitions, training activities, educational programs, and talent-development initiatives aimed at increasing sports participation and identifying future champions.

International Associations and Global Reach

SGADF describes itself as one of India’s sports-development organizations connected with international bodies such as TAFISA, IAKS, and ICSSPE.

Sports experts note that such international engagement helps create networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and broader exposure for athletes, coaches, and sports administrators.

Support From Olympians and the Sports Community

Several senior athletes, coaches, international medalists, and Olympians have consistently supported grassroots sports-development initiatives across India. SGADF states that it has received guidance and encouragement from respected figures within the sporting community, helping strengthen its mission of athlete development.

The organization believes that when experienced sports personalities support young talent, it contributes significantly to the growth of India’s sporting culture.

Sports Development Remains the Core Mission

Despite occasional public discussions and challenges, SGADF maintains that its primary focus remains athlete welfare and sports development.

Today, the organization is increasingly recognized as a platform dedicated not only to issuing certificates but also to providing athletes with recognition, structured records, development opportunities, training pathways, competitive exposure, and long-term sporting growth.

In the words of Founder Shivam Thakur:

“Every athlete deserves an opportunity. Our goal is not merely to organize competitions, but to provide athletes with recognition, records, exposure, opportunities, and a future. Sports development remains the mission of SGADF, and we will continue expanding our efforts to help build a stronger sporting nation."

Union Minister George Kurien Resigns from Council of Ministers, Resignation Approved by President Murmu After Rajya Sabha Term Ends

Loktej English Team — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:19:42 +0530

New Delhi, June 23. Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurien has resigned from the Council of Ministers following the end of his Rajya Sabha term.

According to official information released by the President's office, President Droupadi Murmu accepted Kurien's resignation with immediate effect on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was also responsible for the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying in the central government. George Kurien's term as a Rajya Sabha member ended on June 21.

The Bharatiya Janata Party recently decided not to renominate him in the Rajya Sabha elections, leading to this process. Kurien has been associated with the BJP since 1980 and has also served as the Vice Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities. A dedicated political journey: Born in Kottayam, Kerala, George Kurien is a Supreme Court lawyer by profession.

Elected to the Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh's vacant seat in August 2024, Kurien was considered a prominent face of the Christian community. His loyalty to the party and work ethic earned him a significant responsibility in the central government. With his resignation, discussions regarding new appointments in the government have intensified.

PM Modi's successful visit to France and Slovakia concludes

Loktej English Team — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 19:30:50 +0530

New Delhi, June 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed his successful official visit to France and Slovakia and has departed for New Delhi today.

During his visit to France, he participated in the G-7 summit and held bilateral talks with several global leaders. While addressing the technology forum 'VivaTech 2026' in Paris, he emphasized India's digital capabilities and the inclusive nature of AI. During his visit, he also made his first official trip to Slovakia, which he described as extremely 'historic and beneficial'.

Eleven agreements were signed in key areas such as migration, digital technology, and defense, transforming the relationship between the two countries into a significant strategic partnership. This partnership will open new avenues for business and future opportunities for the youth of both countries. During the G-7 summit, PM Modi met with several prominent world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In discussions with Trump, he prominently raised the issue of the safety of sailors. At the conclusion of his visit, PM Modi declared India a 'reliable partner' for the world and expressed satisfaction regarding mutual cooperation and future development plans.

Development of Artificial Intelligence Should Be Based on Principles of Inclusivity, Security, and Public Interest: Modi

Loktej English Team — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 19:34:20 +0530

New Delhi, June 18. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while mentioning India's 'human' vision for artificial intelligence before the G-7 countries, stated that the development of artificial intelligence should be based on the core principles of inclusivity, security, and public interest.

Modi, who is on a visit to France to participate in the 52nd G-7 summit, addressed an outreach session on 'Ensuring a Safe, Rapid and Efficient Rollout of Artificial Intelligence' in Évian, France, on Wednesday night. Modi remarked that AI is a transformative power with the potential to redefine the direction of human civilization, but it should also empower people. He elaborated that with this broad thinking, India recently hosted the AI Impact Summit.

The Prime Minister highlighted India's 'human' vision for AI, which emphasizes that the development of artificial intelligence should be based on the core principles of inclusivity, security, and public interest. He stated that India has always viewed cyberspace as a global public good and that democratic countries should have access to AI models that can secure their critical information infrastructure and help them address cyber threats. He called for a unified approach to AI development, focusing on security, speed, and efficiency simultaneously.

In this regard, he provided four suggestions: AI systems should be 'safe-by-design'; there should be common standards, testing frameworks, and regulatory guidelines alongside the use of AI; effective global cooperation should be established to tackle deepfakes, misinformation, and cyber fraud; and the benefits of AI should reach the countries of the 'Global South' to ensure an inclusive world. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister stated that the aim of artificial intelligence should be to expand human capabilities, empower human choices, and protect human dignity. He clarified that India will continue to work with its partners to promote these objectives.