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Showing posts from March 30, 2026

when a vehicle, sirens blaring or red beacon flashing, whizzes past through the adjacent VIP lane—doesn't it leave you with a distinct pang of unease?

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, At that very moment—when a vehicle, sirens blaring or red beacon flashing, whizzes past through the adjacent VIP lane—doesn't it leave you with a distinct pang of unease? After all, these individuals are our representatives, our guardians. Whether they are ministers, political leaders, judges, or high-ranking government officials—for all of them, the system appears so seamless and unhindered. The moment they approach, the toll gate barricades lift instantly. When ordinary working people—weather-beaten by sun and rain—drive along the highway, the sight of a toll plaza often elicits a deep sigh. As we reach into our pockets to pull out the money, many of us likely find ourselves mentally tallying the costs: "I’ve paid income tax, paid vehicle tax, paid steep duties on fuel—and now, do I have to pay *again* just to use this road?" Yet, at that very moment—when a vehicle, sirens blaring or red beacon flashing, whizzes past through the adjacent VIP lane—doesn't it leave ...

Bringing an end to a 46-year-long wait, the historic 'Ratna Bhandar' (Treasure Chamber) of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, has been opened

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   Reported by Sanchita chatterjee: Bringing an end to a 46-year-long wait, the historic 'Ratna Bhandar' (Treasure Chamber) of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, has been opened. Due to the unavailability of the keys to the cupboards—and to ensure security—the locks of the Ratna Bhandar were broken open to gain entry, in the presence of a special committee. This step has been taken with the objective of creating an accurate inventory of the gems and ornaments housed within this invaluable treasury, as well as for the purpose of carrying out necessary repairs. This marks the first time since 1978 that the Ratna Bhandar has been fully opened. To undertake the renovation of the Ratna Bhandar and to conduct a physical verification (inventory) of the ornaments contained within it. According to records dating back to 1978, the chamber houses 128 kilograms of gold, 221 kilograms of silver, and numerous precious gemstones.  An updated inventory is being compiled without removi...