indigenous rights

The government has clarified the Rs 81,000 crore Great Nicobar Project, emphasizing its strategic importance for India's presence in the Andaman Sea and Southeast Asia. Officials stated that environmental safeguards and the protection of indigenous communities are core to the planning, with all statutory procedures and consultations meticulously followed to ensure no adverse impact on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.

Barchalla, a rural constituency in Sonitpur, sees BJP's Ritu Baran Sarmah face INC's Ripun Bora in the 2026 election. The seat, historically a Congress stronghold, is now contested amidst demands for ST status and land rights for tea workers. High voter turnout reflects the electorate's political engagement.

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has found that most atrocities against Scheduled Tribes in Jharkhand stem from violations of the Chotanagpur Tenancy (CNT) Act, leading to land exploitation. The commission directed authorities to register FIRs and issue arrest warrants in several land dispute cases, emphasizing the need for police stations in vulnerable areas to protect tribal rights.

In 1996, two students discovered an ancient skeleton, dubbed "The Ancient One," near the Columbia River. DNA analysis revealed the 9,000-year-old remains are genetically linked to Native Americans, resolving a long-standing debate. This discovery revolutionized archaeology, emphasizing respect for indigenous sovereignty and memory, culminating in the skeleton's return to tribal descendants for a traditional burial.

An ancient dugout canoe, remarkably preserved for 1,200 years in Lake Mendota, Wisconsin, has been discovered. This invaluable artifact offers a tangible link to the Ho-Chunk Nation's ancestors, showcasing their rich culture and connection to the lake. Laser scanning technology is being used to digitally preserve the vessel, revealing its intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.

Piprahwa relics are welcome back in India. But it may alter the architecture of restitution – India invoked their return as a right, but the relics returned as part of a private collection on loan to govt

A remarkable discovery at New South Wales' Willandra Lakes unearthed Mungo Lady, revealing 42,000-year-old cremation rituals, predating ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations. This find fundamentally altered our understanding of early human culture, demonstrating sophisticated beliefs and emotional ties. The site, also yielding Mungo Man, highlights ancient Australians' complex symbolic behaviour and enduring connection to their land.

Bollywood's Met Gala presence has transformed from mere attendees to fashion powerhouses. From Priyanka Chopra Jonas to Deepika Padukone's dramatic evolution and Alia Bhatt's celebration of Indian craftsmanship, Bollywood's dominant, culturally rich presence on the global stage surely became the highlight of the eve, every year.

Widely credited with expanding the BJP’s footprint in Assam and across the Northeast after switching from the Congress in 2015, Sarma has played a key role in significantly weakening the grand old party in the state

Kerala & TN, to Assam & Bengal, each of the four big states where voting has concluded is a perfect example – via language, culture, politics – of India’s innate ability to live with differences

The 2026 assembly elections have dramatically reshaped India's political landscape. Vijay's debut in Tamil Nadu, the BJP's gains in West Bengal and Kerala's return to rotation mark significant shifts. Established powers face challenges as new forces emerge, redefining narratives and pushing others to the margins. This analysis highlights the key winners and losers.

The chief minister said that the program serves to honour the talented and hardworking members of AWPL who have set new benchmarks of success through their dedication and commitment. He noted that the organisation operates on a direct selling model, delivering products directly to consumers.

The ruling JMM is mobilizing its cadres across Jharkhand through workshops to prepare for the upcoming special intensive revision of electoral rolls. Party leaders are training workers to ensure no genuine voter is excluded and to raise awareness about the Census, emphasizing accurate enumeration of tribal and deprived communities.

This year, the Goldman Environmental Prize makes history by recognizing its first all-female assembly of six remarkable activists. Hailing from diverse corners of the world, these champions are celebrated for their pivotal roles in driving climate justice, championing biodiversity, and standing up for indigenous rights.

Celebrate World Book Day by igniting the imaginations of little readers with enchanting tales that foster compassion and a love for nature. Explore five delightful recommendations, such as Alia Bhatt's heartwarming 'Ed Finds a Home' alongside 'We Are Water Protectors,' which beautifully instill values of environmental stewardship and self-acceptance.

India's electric scooter market sees a fierce battle with Simple Energy's Ultra and Ola Electric's S1 X+ 5.2 kWh. The Ultra boasts a 400 km range and 115 kmph top speed, while the S1 X+ offers 320 km range and a higher 125 kmph top speed.

Prince Harry delighted attendees at a Melbourne mental health event by spontaneously singing and dancing to 'The Wiggles,' inspired by his children's love for the band. The royal, presented with jerseys for Archie and Lilibet, emphasized the importance of open conversations about men's mental health and access to therapy during his Australian visit.

In Odisha, Debal Deb champions agricultural heritage by safeguarding over 1,400 indigenous rice varieties. His initiative, Vrihi and Basudha, revitalizes ancient landraces, preserving genetic diversity crucial for climate resilience. This non-commercial exchange empowers farmers, ensuring these vital crops continue to adapt and thrive in changing conditions.