A New Era in Governance

SEVA TEERTH, NEW DELHI 

On 13 February 2026, Narendra Modi formally inaugurated Seva Teerth, a modern government complex in New Delhi that marks a significant shift in India’s administrative architecture. 

🏛 What Is Seva Teerth?

Seva Teerth is the new headquarters of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and a consolidated hub for core executive functions, housing:

● The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)

● The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS)

● The Cabinet Secretariat

All these previously operated from separate locations across the Central Vista area and the South Block, a colonial-era building that has served as the PMO since Independence. 

🗓 Historic Significance of the Day

The inauguration took place on 13 February 2026, which also coincides with 95 years since New Delhi was declared the nation’s capital in 1931—adding historical resonance to this administrative transition. 

🏗 A Shift from Colonial Legacy

The move from the century-old South Block to Seva Teerth represents more than a physical relocation. Government officials and the Prime Minister described the shift as a symbolic step away from colonial-era institutions toward a modern, citizen-centric governance ecosystem. 

Prime Minister Modi emphasised that Seva Teerth reflects the aspirations of India’s 140 crore people and embodies the ethos of service (“Seva”). 

🌟 Features of the Complex

Integrated and future-ready infrastructure: Designed to bring key executive offices under one roof for better coordination and efficiency. 

● Green and sustainable standards: Built to 4-Star GRIHA eco-friendly norms for environmental performance. 

● Citizen-centric focus: Includes centralised public interface zones and digitally integrated systems. 

● New address and identity: The motto “Nagrik Devo Bhava” (“citizen is akin to God”) is inscribed at the complex, symbolising a governance approach prioritising the people.

🪙 Commemorations

To mark the inauguration, the government released a ₹100 commemorative coin featuring Seva Teerth’s image and the inscription “Nagrik Devo Bhava.” 

📌 What Happens Now

With Seva Teerth now operational:

● The PMO has officially shifted from the iconic South Block. 

● South Block and related colonial buildings are expected to be repurposed as museum space—part of a broader cultural transformation. 

● The new complex is set to play a central role in how the Indian government functions going forward. 

● In essence, Seva Teerth marks a new chapter in India’s administrative evolution—one that blends modern infrastructure with a governance philosophy rooted in service to the people. 🇮🇳

Celebrating Strength, Leadership, and Legacy

NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY IN INDIA 

Every year on 13 February, India observes National Women’s Day to honour the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu—a remarkable freedom fighter, poet, and one of the most inspiring women leaders in Indian history. Fondly known as the “Nightingale of India,” she played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence and became a symbol of women’s empowerment.

Why 13 February?

National Women’s Day in India is celebrated on 13 February to mark the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu (1879–1949). She was not only a celebrated poet but also a courageous political leader. She became the first Indian woman to serve as President of the Indian National Congress and later the first woman Governor of an Indian state (United Provinces, now Uttar Pradesh) after independence.

Her life stands as a reminder that women can lead, inspire, and transform society.

Who Was Sarojini Naidu?

Sarojini Naidu was born in Hyderabad and displayed extraordinary talent from a young age. A brilliant student and gifted writer, she later joined the Indian freedom movement alongside leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.

She was deeply committed to women’s rights and worked tirelessly to encourage women to step out of traditional boundaries and participate in public life. Her speeches inspired thousands of women to join the freedom struggle.

Difference Between National Women’s Day and International Women’s Day

It is important not to confuse National Women’s Day (13 February) with International Women's Day, which is celebrated globally on 8 March.

National Women’s Day (India): Celebrates Sarojini Naidu’s birth anniversary and honours Indian women’s contributions.

International Women’s Day: Focuses on global women’s rights, equality, and achievements.

Both days highlight the importance of gender equality but have different historical backgrounds.

Significance of National Women’s Day

National Women’s Day is significant because it:

● Recognises the achievements of Indian women in politics, science, arts, sports, education, and social reform.

● Encourages discussions about gender equality and women’s empowerment.

● Inspires young girls to dream big and pursue leadership roles.

● Reminds society of the ongoing need to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women.

How Is It Celebrated?

Across schools, colleges, and organisations in India, the day is observed through:

● Speeches and seminars on women’s empowerment

● Cultural programmes and poetry recitations (often featuring Sarojini Naidu’s works)

● Awards recognising outstanding women

● Social media campaigns celebrating women achievers

● Many educational institutions also organise essay writing and debate competitions to spread awareness about women’s contributions to nation-building.

The Relevance Today

Even in modern India, the message of National Women’s Day remains powerful. While women have made remarkable progress in various fields—from space missions to corporate leadership—challenges such as gender bias and inequality still exist.

The life of Sarojini Naidu reminds us that courage, education, and determination can break barriers. Celebrating National Women’s Day is not just about remembering the past; it is about strengthening the future.

Conclusion

National Women’s Day in India is a tribute to the spirit, resilience, and achievements of Indian women. By commemorating Sarojini Naidu’s legacy, the nation acknowledges the vital role women play in shaping society.

As we celebrate this day each year on 13 February, it serves as a reminder that empowering women means empowering the entire nation.

Do you know

HOW WERE MUMMIES MADE?

What comes to your mind when you think of mummies? Perhaps you imagine monsters in bandages.

However, for the ancient Egyptians, who believed in life after death, mummification was all about preparation for the afterlife, if you wanted to preserve the bodies of the dead. A mummy is the preserved body of a person or animal, resulting from the drying and embalming of flesh to prevent decay. This process was expensive and typically reserved for pharaohs and wealthy nobles. It took approximately 70 days to complete the mummification process.

First of all, the body was washed, and all its internal organs, except the heart, were removed from the body. These organs were then placed in special containers known as canopic jars.

Next, the body was covered in natural salt for about 50 days to dry it out. After that, the interior of the body was filled with linen, sawdust, and fragrant herbs.

At this point, the body was ready to be carefully wrapped in layers of linen bandages, similar to a giant gift wrap in order to provide protection. Amulets or small charms were placed within the wrapping for good luck and to assist in the journey into the afterlife.

Anubis: the God of funerary rites and guide to the underworld 

Once completed, a mask was placed over the face to adorn it. Then a priest wearing a mask of the God Anubis would recite prayers over the body. After that, the body was placed inside a wooden coffin, which was later placed in a luxurious sarcophagus (a coffin carved from limestone) to provide an additional layer of protection. Finally, the body was buried in a tomb and ready to begin the journey to the afterlife.

Thanks to this mummification process, many mummies remain in excellent condition, providing valuable insights into ancient Egyptian civilisation. 

Now that you understand how mummies are made, there is no reason to fear them! Right?

Nature’s Curious Mystery

THE CROOKED FOREST OF POLAND 

Deep in western Poland, near the small town of Gryfino, lies one of the world’s most unusual natural wonders—the Crooked Forest, or Krzywy Las in Polish. At first glance, it looks like something from a fantasy novel. Hundreds of pine trees bend sharply at their bases, curving in the same direction before growing straight upward toward the sky.

But how did this strange forest come to be? That question continues to puzzle visitors and researchers alike.

A Forest That Bends

The Crooked Forest consists of around 400 Scots pine trees planted in the early 1930s. What makes them extraordinary is the way each tree curves dramatically near the ground, forming a shape similar to the letter “J” or a sideways “C.”

After this unusual bend, the trees grow straight and tall, reaching heights of about 15 meters (around 50 feet). Even more fascinating is that almost all the trees curve in the same northern direction.

Surrounding this grove are many straight pine trees of the same age—making the curved ones stand out even more clearly.

What Caused the Curves?

Over the years, several theories have tried to explain the mystery:

1. Human Intervention

The most widely accepted theory is that the trees were deliberately bent by humans when they were young saplings. Some believe local farmers may have shaped them for a specific purpose—possibly to create naturally curved timber for furniture, boat building, or tool handles.

However, no official records confirm this practice, and the outbreak of World War II may have interrupted any such plans.

2. Heavy Snow or Natural Forces

Another idea suggests that heavy snowfall might have weighed down the young trees, causing them to bend. But experts argue that if snow were the reason, the trees would likely bend in different directions—not uniformly the same way.

3. Gravitational or Environmental Factors

Some have proposed unusual gravitational pulls or soil conditions as explanations. However, there is no strong scientific evidence supporting these theories.

To this day, the true reason remains uncertain.

A Symbol of Mystery

The Crooked Forest has become a popular tourist attraction for those who enjoy nature’s oddities and unexplained phenomena. Walking among the curved trunks feels almost magical—like stepping into a storybook landscape.

Despite its fame, the forest is relatively small and peaceful. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site, as it is both a natural treasure and a historical curiosity.

Did You Know? 🌲

● The Crooked Forest is called Krzywy Las in Polish.

● The trees were likely planted around 1930.

Nearly all the curved trees bend northward.

● The forest gained international attention only in the late 20th century.

Nature’s Puzzle

Whether shaped by human hands or by natural forces, the Crooked Forest reminds us that nature still holds many mysteries. Sometimes, the most fascinating places in the world are not the tallest or the largest—but the ones that make us stop, wonder, and ask questions.

Smallest inhabited island in the world

 JUST ROOM ENOUGH ISLAND 

Just Room Enough Island is the smallest inhabited island in the world. With an area of only 3,300 sqft, it has just about enough room for a house, shrubs, a tree, and a small beach!

Just Room Enough Island is also called Hub Island. It is located in the St Lawrence River, near Alexandria Bay, close to the US-Canada border. It was purchased in the 1950s by the Sizeland family, who continue to live there to date. Though the family bought the island to build a quiet home, little did they realise that the island would enter the Guinness Book of World Records and become a tourist attraction.

However, the world’s smallest inhabited island till 1982 was Bishop Rock in the Atlantic Ocean, near the Isles of Scilly. But once the lighthouse on this island became automated, there was no need for any human to reside on it anymore. That is when the Just Room Enough Island took its place.

The Just Room Enough Island is hard to miss with its little red cottage. It symbolises micro living, where every little area or space is utilised well. Also, the residents on the island have been able to survive and live happily, despite challenges, such as snowstorms, high tides, and summer storms. In other words, they have managed to adapt and live in harmony with their natural surroundings.

The Just Room Enough Island is one of the 1864 islands that make up the Thousand Islands Chain. It is situated between the Heart Island and Imperial Isle, and is also near one of the most popular attractions of the region, the Boldt Castle.

Wouldn’t you want to visit this island soon? But remember, ‘One misstep and you’re swimming’.

Do You Know

HOW FAST DOES THE EARTH MOVE?

At first glance, Earth feels perfectly still. We sit, walk, sleep, and go about our daily lives without sensing any motion at all. Yet, in reality, our planet is in constant, astonishing movement. Earth spins, races around the Sun, and hurtles through the galaxy—all at mind-boggling speeds. Let’s take a closer look at how fast Earth really moves and why we never notice it.

Earth’s Spin: Creating Day and Night

The most familiar motion of Earth is its rotation on its axis, which causes day and night. Earth completes one full rotation approximately every 24 hours.

At the equator, this spin moves the surface at a speed of about 1,670 kilometres per hour. That means someone standing on the equator travels nearly 40,000 kilometres in a single day—roughly the distance around the Earth itself. At higher latitudes, including much of India, this speed is slightly lower, but still tens of thousands of kilometres every day.

Despite this rapid motion, we don’t feel dizzy or thrown off balance because everything around us—the atmosphere, oceans, and land—moves together at the same steady pace.

Earth’s Journey Around the Sun

While spinning, Earth is also orbiting the Sun. This journey defines our year and follows a nearly circular path.

Earth travels around the Sun at an average speed of about 107,000 kilometres per hour. Over the course of just one day, our planet covers approximately 2.6 million kilometres along its orbit. To put that into perspective, this distance is several times greater than the distance between the Earth and the Moon.

This enormous speed keeps Earth safely balanced between falling into the Sun and drifting away into space.

Racing Through the Milky Way

Earth does not travel alone. The Sun, along with all the planets, moves through the Milky Way galaxy. Our solar system orbits the galactic centre at a staggering speed of roughly 828,000 kilometres per hour.

At this rate, Earth travels nearly 20 million kilometres in just one day as part of the Sun’s galactic journey. Completing one full orbit around the Milky Way takes about 225 to 250 million years—a period known as a “galactic year.”

Why Don’t We Feel Any of This Motion?

Motion becomes noticeable only when there is a sudden change in speed or direction—something scientists call acceleration. Earth’s movements are smooth, constant, and predictable. Since we, along with everything around us, are moving at the same speed, our bodies perceive no motion at all.

It’s similar to sitting inside a smoothly flying airplane: unless the plane turns or hits turbulence, it feels as if you’re standing still.

How Far Do We Travel in One Day?

When all of Earth’s movements are combined, the numbers become truly astonishing. In a single day, a person on Earth travels:

● 30,000–40,000 km due to Earth’s rotation

● 2.6 million km due to Earth’s orbit around the Sun

● Nearly 20 million km due to the solar system’s motion through the galaxy

Altogether, this adds up to over 22 million kilometres in one day, even if you never leave your chair.

A Planet Always in Motion

Earth may feel calm and unmoving beneath our feet, but it is anything but still. Every moment of our lives is spent spinning, orbiting, and racing through space at extraordinary speeds. The fact that we experience all this motion as quiet normality is one of the most remarkable things about our planet—and about life on it.

🌍 Did You Know?

● Even while you are asleep, you travel over 22 million kilometres in a single day due to Earth’s rotation, its orbit around the Sun, and the Sun’s journey through the Milky Way.

● Earth spins fastest at the equator and slows toward the poles—at the North and South Poles, the rotational speed is almost zero.

● The speed of Earth’s orbit around the Sun (107,000 km/hour) is so perfectly balanced that it prevents the planet from either falling into the Sun or drifting away into deep space.

● Scientists discovered Earth’s motion not by feeling it, but through astronomy, mathematics, and precise observation of the stars.

● One complete journey of our solar system around the Milky Way takes so long that dinosaurs were alive the last time it happened.

Do you know

WHAT ARE AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS?

Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues, confusing them for harmful invaders. Normally, the immune system protects the body by targeting bacteria, viruses, or toxins, but in autoimmune diseases, it turns against parts of the body such as joints, skin, muscles, or organs, causing inflammation and tissue damage.

There are more than 80 recognised autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Symptoms often vary widely depending on the specific disease and the body part affected, ranging from fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, to neurological issues. These diseases can be chronic and fluctuate in severity.

The exact cause of autoimmune disorders is not fully understood; they likely result from a complex interaction of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as infections, toxins, chemicals, or lifestyle factors. Women are more commonly affected than men, and multiple autoimmune diseases can coexist in the same individual.