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Paathara Grain Storage Tradition Survives in Andhra–Odisha Border Villages

A Ritual Rooted in Land and Memory

On the misty days preceding Sankranti, remnants of an age-old agrarian ritual still surface in parts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh. In Jalantara Saasanam, a small village in Srikakulam district, farmers continue—though in dwindling numbers—to consecrate their Paathara, a traditional underground grain storage system. Practised along the banks of the Mahendratanaya River, the ritual reflects a deep interweaving of agriculture, faith, and household food security.

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Indian Army-ITBP Joint Exercise “Agni Pariksha” Enhances Combat Integration

Strengthening Joint Operational Preparedness

The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have conducted a six-day joint training exercise titled “Agni Pariksha” in Arunachal Pradesh. Held from January 19 to 24 at Sigar in the East Siang district, the exercise marked a key step towards deeper inter-force coordination, focusing on jointmanship and integrated combat capability in challenging border terrain.

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Punjab Folk and Sufi Traditions to Shine at Bharat Parv 2026

Punjab’s Cultural Heritage on a National Stage

Punjab’s vibrant musical and spiritual traditions will be showcased at Bharat Parv 2026, scheduled to be held at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. On 31 January 2026, audiences will experience a unique blend of folk music and Sufi devotion through performances by the Punjabi Folk Orchestra and the energetic Qalandri Dhamal, reflecting the depth and continuity of Punjab’s cultural legacy.

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New Orchid Species Discovered in Kerala’s Western Ghats

Botanical Discovery in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot

Researchers have identified a new orchid species in the high-altitude regions of Kerala, further highlighting the exceptional botanical diversity of the Western Ghats. The species was discovered in Kanthalloor near Marayoor in Idukki district, an area known for its unique montane ecosystems. The find adds to the growing list of endemic plant species from the southern Western Ghats.

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Ancient Zapotec Tomb Discovered in Mexico’s Oaxaca Valley

Rare Archaeological Find from Pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica

Archaeologists in southern Mexico have uncovered an exceptionally well-preserved 1,400-year-old tomb belonging to the Zapotec civilization, shedding new light on Indigenous burial practices and belief systems. The discovery was made in 2025 at San Pablo Huitzo, located in the state of Oaxaca, following an investigation triggered by an anonymous tip-off about illegal excavation activity.

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