Savitribai Phule, born in 1831, is celebrated for her remarkable contributions to women’s education in the 19th century. The Prime Minister of India recently commemorated her 191st birth anniversary, acknowledging her relentless efforts towards social reforms. Alongside her husband Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai pioneered the establishment of a school for girls and marginalized communities, known as Shudras and Ati-Shudras, in Poona in 1848.
Not just limited to education, Savitribai’s vision also expanded to addressing societal evils. This vision led to the creation of Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha – a haven aimed at preventing infanticide. In addition, she also established the Mahila Seva Mandal in 1852 to advocate for women’s rights. As a literary contributor, Savitribai published Kavya Phule in 1854 and Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar in 1892. The couple’s efforts towards social equity culminated with the formation of the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873.
Rani Velu Nachiyar: The First Queen Against British Rule
The Prime Minister of India also paid tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary. Born on January 3, 1730, Rani Velu Nachiyar holds the distinction of being the first queen to rise against British colonial power in India during the 1780s. Known as Veeramangai by Tamils, she was the princess of the Ramnad Kingdom of Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu.
Accomplished in languages including French, English, and Urdu, Rani Velu was also adept in martial arts, horse riding, and archery. Following her husband Muthuvaduganathaperiya Udaiyathevar’s demise, she assumed the reigns as the Queen of Sivagangai, Tamil Nadu, in 1780.
India Takes Charge of Asia Pacific Postal Union
Vinaya Prakash Singh has recently been elected as the Secretary General of the Asian Pacific Postal Union (APPU), marking it as the first instance of an Indian leading an international organization in the postal sector. Set to hold the position from January 2023 for four years, this leadership will enable India to have greater influence on postal relations in the region.
The APPU is a significant intergovernmental body consisting of 32 member countries from the Asian-Pacific region. With its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, it functions as the only Restricted Union of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in Asia Pacific. The APPU aims to foster and enhance postal relations among the members and contribute to the improvement of postal services. The region generates nearly half of the global mail volume and hosts approximately one-third of global postal personnel.
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva Returns as Brazil’s President
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has recently been inducted as the President of Brazil, succeeding Jair Bolsonaro. This marks Lula’s third tenure in the country’s highest office, having previously served from January 2003 to January 2011.
The historical relationship between India and Brazil dates back to five centuries. However, it wasn’t until 2006 that a strategic partnership was established between the two nations. Being important members of forums like BRICS, IBSA, G4, and G20, both countries play substantial roles in leading the Global South or South-South cooperation. The recently held 7th edition of the IBSAMAR exercise witnessed the participation of both countries, further strengthening their bilateral relations.
