Latest Key Points from Today's Press Information Bureau (12th July, 2025)

India's rich cultural heritage has taken a significant stride forward, as the Maratha Military Landscapes have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This marks India's 44th World Heritage Site, placing the country sixth globally and second in the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring India's cultural prominence on the global stage.

The Maratha Military Landscapes consist of a network of 12 forts located in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, showcasing the sophisticated military and architectural ingenuity of the Maratha Empire from the 17th to 19th centuries. These forts, including Raigad, Shivneri, Sindhudurg, and Gingee Fort, demonstrate a strategic defense network across diverse terrains, from coastal forts to hilltop strongholds.

The recognition celebrates the Marathas' regional adaptation, military innovation, and historical continuity, reflecting their cultural pride, governance, and resistance to injustice. The inscription is also a diplomatic and cultural milestone, achieved despite initial opposition from UNESCO advisory bodies that questioned the ensemble's representativeness and protection measures. The widespread international support during the World Heritage Committee session in Paris highlights strong global recognition of the Maratha military legacy.

The forts are recognised under UNESCO criteria (iv) and (vi) for their architectural, technological, and cultural significance. These forts, which were built between the 17th and 19th centuries, are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, while others are maintained by the state heritage department.

Meanwhile, in the digital realm, a whitepaper titled "Transitioning to Quantum Cyber Readiness" has been launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), CERT-In, and cybersecurity firm SISA. The whitepaper provides strategic pathways to migrate to quantum-resistant encryption algorithms, addressing regulated sectors such as BFSI, healthcare, and government, offering tailored guidance to proactively manage quantum risks.

The operation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has also been successful in cracking down on illicit imports. DRI intercepted and seized 100 metric tonnes of illegal Chinese firecrackers and fireworks worth approximately ₹35 crore. The firecrackers were smuggled under false declarations such as "Mini Decorative Plants," "Artificial Flowers," and "Plastic Mats."

In a separate development, the Common Services Centres (CSC) will celebrate its 16th Establishment Day on 16th July 2025, marking over 6.5 lakh functional centres nationwide. The CSC SPV will organise celebrations at national, state, and district levels, recognising outstanding Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) and community leaders for their social entrepreneurship and commitment. The CSC SPV will also focus on integration of AI-based services, expansion of cloud technologies, promotion of rural innovation, and strengthening digitally enabled livelihoods during the celebration.

These developments underscore India's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while also embracing technological advancements to secure its digital infrastructure and protect its citizens.

The Maratha Military Landscapes inscription provokes thoughts on how cultural and technological advancements can coexist.
India's 44th World Heritage Site honors the strategic military defense network of the Maratha Empire.
The Maratha Military Landscapes embody the Empire's regional adaptation and historical continuity.
The UNESCO World Heritage listing highlights India's global cultural influence and regional dominance.
The Maratha forts, such as Raigad, Shivneri, Sindhudurg, and Gingee Fort, reflect the Empire's architectural and military prowess.
The forts' strategic placement across varying terrains is a testament to the Marathas' military ingenuity.
The diplomatic and cultural milestone was achieved despite initial opposition from UNESCO advisory bodies.
The widespread international support reflects the global recognition of the Maratha military legacy.
The UNESCO criteria applied to the forts include their architectural, technological, and cultural significance.
The forts, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and state heritage departments, are cherished relics of India's past.
In the digital realm, the "Transitioning to Quantum Cyber Readiness" whitepaper offers guidance on migrating to quantum-resistant encryption algorithms.
The whitepaper addresses crucial sectors like BFSI, healthcare, and government for proactive management of quantum risks.
The DRI's operation against illicit Chinese imports marks a victory in safeguarding India's economy and consumer safety.
The 100 metric tonnes of seized firecrackers, smuggled with misleading declarations, were valued at approximately ₹35 crore.
The Common Services Centres' (CSC) 16th Establishment Day commemoration will be a time for recognizing outstanding VLEs and community leaders.
The CSC SPV plans to celebrate nationwide, focusing on AI-based services, cloud technologies, rural innovation, and strengthening digitally enabled livelihoods.
India's dedication to cultural preservation aligns with embracing technological advancements to secure its digital infrastructure.
The realm of science and technology paves the way for innovative solutions in various sectors, including climate change, environmental science, and artificial intelligence.
The blossoming field of environmental science offers insights into mitigating climate change for a sustainable future.
Fitness and exercise, health-and-wellness, and sports are essential components of an individual's lifestyle, contributing to overall well-being.
Sports like football, the Champions League, baseball, golf, sports betting, tennis, and racing excite fans worldwide, fostering cultural exchange and global connections.
European leagues, such as Laliga, are stimulating destinations for sports fans looking for an immersive football experience.
The NBA, NCAA Basketball, MLB, and Grand Prix are popular, high-intensity competitions, offering entertainment and skill training for athletes.
Social media, a crucial lifestyle element, is a platform for personal growth, career development, and learning, enabling skills training and knowledge sharing on a global scale.