Category: news

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa and Dr. Dinesh Sharma Exchange Views on Nation-Building and Good Governance

New Delhi, July 17, 2026

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, National Chairman and Founder of the Akhila Sevak Samaj Council (ASSC), met Dr. Dinesh Sharma, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from Uttar Pradesh and former Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, during a courtesy meeting in New Delhi.

The meeting focused on issues related to national development, public welfare, youth empowerment, and the importance of strengthening social initiatives through collaborative efforts. Both leaders exchanged views on the role of community organisations in supporting inclusive growth and contributing to India’s development.

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa appreciated Dr. Sharma’s contribution to public life and his long-standing commitment to education, governance, and nation-building. He said that meaningful dialogue between policymakers and social organisations is essential for addressing the aspirations of the people and creating lasting impact at the grassroots level.

Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Bhargav Mallappa said, “It was an honour to meet Dr. Dinesh Sharma ji and exchange thoughts on issues concerning public service and national development. His vast administrative experience and dedication to education and governance continue to inspire many.”

The Akhila Sevak Samaj Council (ASSC) continues to work across the country to promote social welfare, community development, youth engagement, and initiatives that contribute to nation-building through collective participation.

Association for Molecular Pathology Announces 2026 Award Recipients

ROCKVILLE, Md., July 17: The Association for Molecular Pathology, the premier global molecular diagnostic professional society, announced the recipients of its 2026 Award for Excellence in Molecular Diagnostics, Jeffrey A. Kant Leadership Award and Meritorious Service Award. These prestigious honors recognize extraordinary scientific achievement, visionary leadership and sustained service that have advanced the field of molecular diagnostics and improved patient care. The awards will be presented at the AMP 2026 Annual Meeting & Expo, taking place Nov. 10-14 in Seattle.

Award for Excellence in Molecular Diagnostics

Elaine S. Jaffe, M.D.

• NIH Distinguished Investigator, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health
• Head, Hematopathology Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute

Dr. Elaine S. Jaffe will receive AMP’s highest honor in recognition of her pioneering contributions to the diagnosis, classification and treatment of lymphoma and related blood cancers.

An internationally recognized leader in hematopathology, Jaffe has spent more than 50 years at the National Cancer Institute, where she established the clinical framework widely used today to classify lymphoid neoplasms. Her groundbreaking research has transformed the understanding of lymphoid malignancies, leading to the identification of new lymphoma subtypes, advances in disease biology and classification systems that continue to guide diagnosis, prognosis, research and treatment worldwide.

Jaffe has co-authored more than 800 peer-reviewed publications and ranks among the most highly cited researchers in clinical oncology. She has served as president of the Society for Hematopathology and the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, and she is a member of the National Academy of Medicine. She also previously served on the American Society of Hematology’s advisory board.

Her honors include the Fred W. Stewart Award from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Mostofi Award from the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, the Henry M. Stratton Medal from the American Society of Hematology and the Distinguished Clinical Teacher Award from the NIH Fellows Committee.

Established in 1998, the Award for Excellence in Molecular Diagnostics recognizes leaders whose scientific discoveries, technological innovations and research have transformed molecular diagnostics and significantly advanced disease diagnosis and patient care.

Jaffe will deliver a keynote lecture following her award presentation on Nov. 12 during the AMP 2026 Annual Meeting & Expo.

Jeffrey A. Kant Leadership Award

Laura J. Tafe, M.D.

• Professor, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
• Director, Laboratory for Clinical Genomics and Advanced Technology , Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Clinics

Dr. Laura J. Tafe will be recognized for more than 15 years of leadership, service and contributions to AMP and the molecular pathology community. 

Tafe has held numerous leadership roles within AMP, culminating in her term as AMP president in 2023. During her presidency, she led the CEO search committee through a pivotal organizational transition and guided the association during a landmark year of policy advocacy.

As chair of the 2021 Annual Meeting Program Committee, Tafe helped lead AMP through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality scientific and educational programming.

Her extensive service also includes leadership roles on the AMP Board of Directors, the Solid Tumors Subdivision, Training and Education Committee, the Gene Fusions Working Group, the Lung Biomarker Guideline Expert Panel and the Journal of Molecular Diagnostics Editorial Board, reflecting her longstanding commitment to advancing molecular pathology, professional education and patient care.

The Jeffrey A. Kant Leadership Award recognizes an AMP member whose exceptional leadership has advanced the organization’s mission and strategic goals. The award honors the late Jeffrey A. Kant, M.D., Ph.D., one of AMP’s founding members, its first president and the first recipient of the AMP Leadership Award.

Meritorious Service Award

Daniel E. Sabath, M.D., Ph.D.

• Professor, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington
• Chief of Service, Hospital Laboratories, Harborview Medical Center
• Laboratory Director, Hematology and Coagulation Laboratories, UW Medical Center

Dr. Daniel E. Sabath will receive the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of his enduring contributions to AMP and the molecular pathology community.

For more than 25 years, Sabath has served in numerous leadership roles, mentored generations of members and helped shape the profession through his dedication to scientific excellence and organizational service, including his term as AMP president in 2022.

Widely respected for his collaborative leadership, scientific expertise and commitment to AMP’s mission, Sabath has made lasting contributions to both the organization and the broader molecular diagnostics community.

The Meritorious Service Award honors AMP members whose exceptional dedication and sustained service have significantly strengthened the association, its members, and the field of molecular diagnostics.

AMP President Aaron D. Bossler, M.D., Ph.D., vice chair of molecular pathology at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, congratulated the recipients.

“It is my distinct privilege to recognize Drs. Jaffe, Tafe and Sabath with AMP’s highest honors at this year’s annual meeting,” said Bossler. “These awards represent our deep appreciation for their longstanding leadership, steadfast service and continuous commitment to advancing molecular diagnostics and improving patient care.”

President Murmu Highlights Role of Forest Officers in Expanding India’s Green Cover

New Delhi, July 17: President Droupadi Murmu called upon probationers of the Indian Forest Service (IFS) to play a proactive role in expanding green cover and strengthening environmental conservation efforts across the country.

Addressing the probationers, the President highlighted the vital role of the Indian Forest Service in protecting forests, preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. She encouraged the young officers to contribute towards increasing greenery and supporting ecological balance through dedicated public service.

The President underscored the importance of forests in addressing climate change, conserving wildlife and ensuring environmental sustainability for future generations. She urged the officers to combine scientific knowledge, innovation and community participation to achieve long-term conservation goals.

Officials said the interaction reflected the government’s continued emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development, with the Indian Forest Service playing a key role in implementing conservation initiatives nationwide.

The President also encouraged the probationers to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and public service as they prepare to take on responsibilities in safeguarding India’s rich natural heritage.

The address reaffirmed the importance of collective efforts to expand green cover and build a more sustainable and environmentally resilient future for the country.

Tripura Kicks Off Census 2027 Self-Enumeration Drive with Governor Leading Public Participation

Agartala, July 17: Tripura has officially launched the self-enumeration phase of Census 2027, with the Governor setting the tone by becoming one of the first citizens to complete the process and encouraging wider public participation.

The self-enumeration facility enables residents to submit their household details digitally, offering a faster, more convenient and citizen-friendly approach to the national census. The initiative is expected to simplify the data collection process while improving the accuracy and efficiency of the exercise.

Officials said the Governor’s participation sends a strong message about the importance of the census and the need for every eligible household to contribute accurate information. Citizens have been urged to take advantage of the digital platform and complete the exercise within the stipulated timeline.

The Census serves as a key tool for informed policymaking, helping governments assess demographic trends and plan future investments in infrastructure, public services and welfare programmes.

State authorities are undertaking awareness campaigns and administrative measures to ensure the smooth implementation of the self-enumeration process, making the Census 2027 exercise more accessible and inclusive for residents across Tripura.

PM Modi Announces INR 4,700 Crore Projects to Strengthen Chandigarh’s Urban Infrastructure

Chandigarh, July 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth ₹4,700 crore in Chandigarh, reaffirming the government’s focus on strengthening urban infrastructure, connectivity and public services.

The projects span multiple sectors and are aimed at improving civic amenities, enhancing transportation infrastructure and supporting the city’s long-term development. The initiatives are expected to boost economic activity, improve quality of life and create new opportunities for residents.

Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to building modern infrastructure that supports inclusive growth and sustainable urban development.

Officials said the projects will contribute to better connectivity, upgraded public facilities and improved service delivery, while reinforcing Chandigarh’s position as a key urban centre in northern India.

The investment reflects the Centre’s continued emphasis on infrastructure-led growth and the creation of modern, future-ready cities. The projects are also expected to generate employment during implementation and provide long-term benefits to the region’s economy.

The launch marks another step in the government’s broader vision of accelerating infrastructure development and strengthening public assets to meet the evolving needs of citizens.

Hansika Lamba Wins Silver at Budapest Ranking Series, Boosts India’s Wrestling Campaign

Budapest, July 17: India’s U23 World Champion Hansika Lamba delivered another impressive international performance by winning the silver medal at the Budapest Ranking Series 2026, reinforcing her status as one of the country’s brightest wrestling talents.

Lamba displayed remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament, overcoming strong international opponents to earn a place on the podium. Her silver-medal finish adds another significant achievement to her growing list of international accolades.

The Budapest Ranking Series is regarded as an important event on the international wrestling calendar, providing athletes with valuable competitive exposure against some of the world’s top wrestlers.

Sports officials and wrestling enthusiasts congratulated Lamba on her achievement, noting that her consistent performances reflect India’s growing strength in women’s wrestling.

The latest success is expected to boost Lamba’s confidence as she prepares for upcoming international competitions, while also strengthening India’s presence on the global wrestling stage.

PM Modi’s Handwritten ‘Vande Mataram’ Message to Travel Aboard Skyroot’s Vikram-1 Space Mission

New Delhi, July 17: A handwritten postcard featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message ‘Vande Mataram’ will be carried aboard Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 launch vehicle, marking a unique blend of India’s space ambitions and national sentiment.

The symbolic postcard will accompany the maiden mission of Vikram-1, Skyroot’s privately developed orbital launch vehicle, highlighting India’s growing capabilities in the private space sector.

The inclusion of the message is seen as a tribute to India’s spirit of innovation, scientific progress and growing achievements in space exploration. The mission represents a significant milestone for the country’s emerging space ecosystem and the increasing role of private companies in advancing launch technologies.

Skyroot Aerospace has been working towards developing cost-effective and advanced space launch solutions, contributing to India’s efforts to strengthen its position in the global space industry.

The Vikram-1 mission is expected to showcase India’s technological capabilities and support future opportunities in satellite launches and commercial space services.

The historic journey of the launch vehicle will carry not only technological innovation but also a message reflecting India’s aspirations and enthusiasm for the future of space exploration.

India’s Economy Shows Resilience Despite Global Challenges and Monsoon Concerns, Says RBI Governor

New Delhi, July 17: India’s economy continues to demonstrate strength and resilience despite external challenges, including uncertainties arising from West Asia and concerns over monsoon conditions, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor said.

The RBI chief highlighted that India’s economic fundamentals remain stable, supported by strong domestic demand, a robust financial system and continued policy measures aimed at sustaining growth.

While global developments and weather-related risks remain areas of focus, authorities are closely monitoring their potential impact on inflation, economic activity and overall market conditions.

The RBI reiterated its commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability and supporting sustainable economic growth through appropriate policy measures.

Experts noted that India’s diversified economy and strong domestic consumption base provide support against global uncertainties, while continued monitoring of key risk factors remains important.

The central bank will continue to assess evolving economic conditions and take necessary steps to ensure financial stability and long-term growth.

India’s First Hydrogen Train Pilot Completes Special Training, Highlights Focus on Safe Green Rail Technology

New Delhi, July 17: The loco pilot selected to operate India’s first hydrogen-powered train has undergone specialised training to handle the advanced technology, reflecting the country’s focus on safety and innovation in green transportation.

The pilot received dedicated training on the operation, safety protocols and technical aspects of hydrogen-based rail systems before taking charge of the country’s first hydrogen train service. The training was designed to ensure smooth operations and adherence to the highest safety standards.

Officials highlighted that the hydrogen-powered train has been developed with advanced safety features and modern systems to support reliable and environment-friendly rail transport.

The introduction of hydrogen train technology marks a significant step in India’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable mobility solutions. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of adopting cleaner energy alternatives in the transportation sector.

Railway authorities said extensive preparation and specialised training of operating staff are key components of ensuring safe and efficient services as India moves towards next-generation rail technology.

The launch of hydrogen-powered rail services is expected to strengthen India’s green mobility efforts while showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in advanced railway innovation.