Mozambique Launches Digital e-Visa System for 183 Countries
Mozambique has launched a digital e-Visa system allowing travellers from 183 countries, including India, to apply online before departure. Part of a digital transformation and border modernisation programme, the platform is powered by VFS Global. The system aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and traveler convenience by enabling online document submission, online fee payments, and pre-approval via email. Visa issuance in advance shortens immigration processing on arrival, supporting tourism and potential investment. The move is expected to boost cross-border mobility and contribute to Mozambique’s broader economic development goals.
E-Visa system covers 183 countries including India
Part of digital transformation and border modernization
Powered by VFS Global
Online application, payment, and pre-approval available
India Opens First National Biobank for Lysosomal Storage Disorders
India has launched its first government-supported national biobank dedicated to Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs). Researchers from 28 institutions across six states and two Union Territories have compiled data on 530 patients from 15 states. Funded by the Department of Biotechnology, the biobank integrates biological samples with clinical, biochemical, and genetic data to support affordable screening tools and therapies for LSDs in children. LSDs are a group of over 70 rare inherited metabolic conditions caused by enzyme deficiencies, which can lead to progressive organ damage. The biobank aims to accelerate diagnosis, research, and development of Indian-specific therapies.
National LSD biobank established
28 institutions across 6 states and 2 UTs involved
530 patients data across 15 states
Funded by the Department of Biotechnology
Aims to advance affordable diagnostics and therapies
Shikhar Dhawan Named Brand Ambassador for Delhi Khel Mahakumbh
Former India cricketer and Arjuna Awardee Shikhar Dhawan has been appointed as the brand ambassador of the inaugural Delhi Khel Mahakumbh, an initiative of the Directorate of Education and Sports, Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The event aims to strengthen grassroots sports participation and talent identification across the capital. Dhawan, widely recognised for leadership and mentoring, will accompany the festival’s outreach while continuing his work with youth through Da One Sports. The release emphasises his ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging talent and shaping India’s sporting aspirations beyond his playing career. The Mahakumbh seeks inclusive participation and broader access to sports for all communities.
Dhawan appointed as brand ambassador for Delhi Khel Mahakumbh
Inaugural edition organized by Delhi Directorate of Education and Sports
Aims to strengthen grassroots participation and talent ID
Dhawan’s leadership and mentoring role highlighted
Dhawan associated with Da One Sports
Francesca Lollobrigida Triumphs with Second Gold at Winter Olympics 2026
Italy’s Francesca Lollobrigida claimed her second gold at the Milano Winter Olympics 2026 in the 5000 metres, following her 3000 metres victory on her 35th birthday five days earlier. The 5000m gold, timed at 6:46.17, solidified Lollobrigida’s status as a prominent figure in speed skating. Her back-to-back victories come at a venue that highlighted Italy’s strength in winter sports. The double title adds a significant milestone to both the athlete’s career and Italy’s medal tally, underscoring the competitive field of the Games and the narrative of perseverance and peak performance at an elite level.
Defence Ministry Signs Rs 2,312 Crore Dornier Deal with HAL
The Defence Ministry signed a Rs 2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The agreement, finalized in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, reinforces Buy (Indigenously Developed) policy and strengthens coastal surveillance across India’s coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone. The Dornier 228 aircraft will include specialised equipment to support coastal patrol, maritime reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions. This purchase reflects a broader push to expand domestic defence manufacturing and enhance India’s maritime security capabilities through indigenous production and technology transfer.
Contract value: Rs 2,312 crore
Eight Dornier 228 aircraft for ICG
Finalised with Defence Secretary present
Supports Buy (Indigenously Developed) policy
Enhances coastal surveillance and SAR capabilities
Maharashtra Launches My Village, Healthy Village Campaign with Rs 80 Crore Budget
The Maharashtra government launched the My Village, Healthy Village campaign to uplift rural health services through a multi-sectoral approach. The scheme, approved by the state cabinet, runs annually from 1 April to 31 March and has a budget of approximately Rs 80 crore. Its objectives include improved rural health standards, sanitation, safe water supply, and health awareness programs to promote preventive care and healthy lifestyles. The initiative envisions coordination across sanitation and water departments and health outreach to strengthen rural healthcare capacity, identify local needs, and improve service delivery for villagers.
Campaign name: My Village, Healthy Village
Duration: 1 April to 31 March annually
Budget: around Rs 80 crore
Focus on sanitation, water, and preventive healthcare
Multi-sectoral collaboration for rural health improvements
Odisha to Add QR Codes on Land Records for Digital Verification
Odisha will introduce QR codes on land ownership documents (Record of Rights, RoR) to enable instant digital verification of property details. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari announced that each RoR will carry a QR code with ownership, location, and transaction history. The system aims to enhance transparency, curb fraud, and streamline property transactions. Scanning the QR code will reveal the full property profile, including parcel maps. Currently, buyers rely on encumbrance certificates covering records from the past 30 years. The QR-based verification will complement existing records and improve due diligence for buyers, sellers, and authorities.
Bharat Mela 2026 in Kuwait Set for 13 February, Free Entry
The Embassy of India in Kuwait invites all to Bharat Mela 2026, a large open-air festival celebrating India’s heritage. The event is scheduled for Friday, 13 February 2026, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at the Beach Front of Green Island (behind Chili’s on Arabian Gulf Street). Entry is free, welcoming families, expatriates, and culture enthusiasts. Expect a non-stop schedule with more than 700 artists showcasing India's performing arts and cultural diversity. The festival aims to strengthen people-to-people ties and cultural diplomacy, providing a platform for cross-cultural exchange and enjoyment of Indian heritage in the Gulf region.
Date and time: 13 February 2026, 12:00–19:00
Location: Beach Front, Green Island, Kuwait
Free entry for all attendees
Over 700 performing artists planned
Festival enhances cultural diplomacy with India-Kuwait ties