February 24, 2026 - Page 2 of 2

Ranvir Sachdeva, 8, Becomes Youngest Speaker in India AI Summit History

February 24, 2026

Ranveer Sachdeva made history as the youngest speaker ever to address the India AI Summit 2026. Speaking alongside global tech leaders and industry experts, he delivered a confident and thoughtful perspective on artificial intelligence and its growing role in education and innovation. His appearance was not a symbolic gesture but a reflection of genuine curiosity and deep interest in emerging technologies. The audience responded with admiration as he articulated ideas well beyond his years. Ranveer’s milestone moment highlights a new generation stepping forward, ready to participate in shaping India’s evolving AI and digital future.

Who is Ranvir Sachdeva?

Ranvir Sachdeva is an 8-year-old technology enthusiast who gained national attention as the youngest speaker at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi.
He is known for his early interest in coding, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.
At the summit, he shared thoughtful insights on AI’s future and its relevance to education and innovation in India.
His participation placed him alongside global technology leaders and policymakers.
Ranvir has interacted with prominent tech CEOs during major industry events.
He represents a new generation of young innovators actively engaging with advanced technology conversations.

Object of India AI Summit 2026

The India AI Summit 2026 was held from 16 to 20 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The summit was organised to establish India as a leading global force in artificial intelligence innovation and governance.
It brought together policymakers, global technology leaders, startups, researchers, and industry experts on a unified platform.
A key objective was to promote responsible, ethical, and transparent AI development aligned with societal needs.
The event focused on how AI can accelerate inclusive economic growth and digital transformation across India.
Major discussions covered AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, education, public services, and smart infrastructure.
The summit aimed to strengthen collaboration between government bodies and private enterprises to scale AI solutions.
It encouraged international partnerships and investment to expand India’s AI ecosystem.
Skill development and workforce readiness for an AI-driven economy were central themes.
The platform also reinforced India’s commitment to shaping global AI policy discussions, particularly from the perspective of emerging economies.

Best MCQs-Based Question on AI

Q. Who is known as the Father of Artificial Intelligence?
A) Alan Turing
B) John McCarthy
C) Charles Babbage
D) Marvin Minsky
Answer: B) John McCarthy
Explanation: John McCarthy coined the term “Artificial Intelligence” in 1956.

Q. In which year was the term 'artificial intelligence' first introduced?
A) 1945
B) 1950
C) 1956
D) 1962
Answer: C) 1956
Explanation: The term was introduced at the Dartmouth Conference in 1956.

Q. The Turing Test is used to measure:
A) Computer speed
B) Storage capacity
C) Human-like intelligence in machines
D) Internet connectivity
Answer: C) Human-like intelligence in machines
Explanation: It checks whether a machine can imitate human responses.

Q. Machine learning is a subset of:
A) Robotics
B) Artificial Intelligence
C) Blockchain
D) Cybersecurity
Answer: B) Artificial Intelligence
Explanation: Machine learning is a branch of AI that enables systems to learn from data.

Q. What does NLP stand for?
A) Neural Logic Processing
B) Natural Language Processing
C) Network Learning Protocol
D) Natural Learning Program
Answer: B) Natural Language Processing
Explanation: NLP helps machines understand and process human language.

Q. Sophia is an example of:
A) Supercomputer
B) Humanoid Robot
C) Search Engine
D) Operating System
Answer: B) Humanoid Robot
Explanation: Sophia is an AI-powered humanoid robot.

Q. Deep learning is based on:
A) Flowcharts
B) Neural Networks
C) Data Entry
D) Sorting Algorithms
Answer: B) Neural Networks
Explanation: Deep learning uses artificial neural networks to process data.

Q. Which type of AI is designed to perform a specific task?
A) General AI
B) Super AI
C) Narrow AI
D) Strong AI
Answer: C) Narrow AI
Explanation: Narrow AI is built for one particular task, such as voice recognition.

Q. Robotics mainly deals with:
A) Website design
B) Intelligent machine design
C) Data storage
D) Networking
Answer: B) Intelligent machine design
Explanation: Robotics focuses on designing and building intelligent machines.

Q. India The AI mission aims to:
A) Promote space research
B) Develop AI ecosystem in India
C) Improve banking systems
D) Expand tourism
Answer: B) Develop an AI ecosystem in India
Explanation: It focuses on strengthening AI innovation and development in India.

Conclusion (Ranvir Sachdeva Becomes Youngest Speaker in India AI Summit)

Ranvir Sachdeva’s milestone at the India AI Summit marks a powerful moment for young innovators across the country. At just eight, he proved that age is no barrier to meaningful ideas. His achievement reflects the growing curiosity, confidence, and capability of India’s next generation in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

Kerala Cabinet Approves Nativity Card Bill to Provide Permanent Proof of State Origin

February 24, 2026

The Kerala Cabinet has cleared the Nativity Card Bill, introducing a proposal to issue a permanent identity document confirming an individual’s origin in the state. Approved on 18 February 2026, the Bill aims to replace the need for repeated nativity certificates by providing a durable, photo-based card as official proof of Kerala roots. The card will help residents access state benefits and complete administrative processes more efficiently. Eligibility is expected to include individuals born in Kerala or those with parents or ancestors from the state, subject to citizenship conditions. Local revenue authorities will oversee issuance and record maintenance.

Significance of the Nativity Card Bill

The Kerala Cabinet approved the Nativity Card Bill on 18 February 2026 to introduce a permanent proof of state origin.
The bill proposes issuing a photo-bearing Nativity Card that will serve as an official and durable identity document.
It aims to replace the repeated need for obtaining temporary nativity certificates for various administrative purposes.
The card will help residents easily prove their Kerala origin while applying for government schemes, education admissions, employment, and welfare benefits.
Eligibility is expected to include individuals born in Kerala or those with Kerala-born parents or ancestors, subject to citizenship conditions.
The card will become invalid if the holder voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship.
Revenue authorities, particularly Tahsildars, will oversee issuance and maintain records at village offices.
The initiative is designed to reduce bureaucratic delays and simplify verification processes.
It strengthens legal clarity around proof of origin and enhances administrative transparency.
The bill also addresses public concerns about identity documentation and ensures long-term recognition of state roots.
Overall, the Nativity Card is intended to provide convenience, authenticity, and permanent documentation for Kerala natives.

Previous Year Questions on Kerala’s Art & Culture and Geography

Exam & Year	Question (with Options)	Answer
UPSC Prelims 2018	With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs: (1) Parivara – Shaivism (2) Yaksha – Jainism (3) Kathakali – Kerala Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only (C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3	(B) 3 only
Kerala PSC 2022	Which is the longest river in Kerala? (A) Bharathapuzha (B) Periyar (C) Pamba (D) Chaliyar	(B) Periyar
SSC CGL 2019	Which Indian state is known as “God’s Own Country”? (A) Goa (B) Kerala (C) Sikkim (D) Himachal Pradesh	(B) Kerala
UPSC Prelims 2016	Silent Valley National Park is located in: (A) Karnataka (B) Tamil Nadu (C) Kerala (D) Andhra Pradesh	(C) Kerala
Kerala PSC 2023	In which year was the state of Kerala formed? (A) 1950 (B) 1956 (C) 1960 (D) 1963	(B) 1956
SSC CHSL 2020	Mohiniyattam dance form originated in which state? (A) Tamil Nadu (B) Kerala (C) Karnataka (D) Andhra Pradesh	(B) Kerala
CDS 2020	The Western Ghats pass through which of the following states? (A) Kerala only (B) Kerala and Tamil Nadu only (C) Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka (D) Gujarat and Maharashtra only	(C) Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
Kerala PSC 2021	Which art form is known as the classical dance-drama of Kerala? (A) Bharatanatyam (B) Kathak (C) Kathakali (D) Kuchipudi	(C) Kathakali
UPSC Prelims 2014	Periyar Tiger Reserve is located in: (A) Kerala (B) Assam (C) Uttarakhand (D) Madhya Pradesh	(A) Kerala
Kerala PSC 2020	Which district of Kerala has the highest literacy rate? (A) Malappuram (B) Kottayam (C) Idukki (D) Kasaragod	(B) Kottayam

Conclusion

The Kerala Cabinet’s approval of the Nativity Card Bill marks a significant administrative reform aimed at providing residents with permanent proof of state origin. By simplifying documentation and reducing repeated certification processes, the initiative is expected to improve access to services while ensuring clarity, authenticity, and long-term convenience for eligible individuals.

BAFTA Award 2026: Complete Winners List & Ceremony Recap

February 24, 2026

The 79th British Academy Film Awards were held on 22 February 2026 at London’s Royal Festival Hall, honouring the top films of 2025 and celebrating achievements in global cinema. Hosted by Alan Cumming, the ceremony saw One Battle After Another dominate with six wins, including Best Film and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson. Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for Hamnet, which also took Outstanding British Film, while Robert Aramayo earned Best Actor and the EE Rising Star award for I Swear. Sinners also scored major honours, and the Manipuri film Boong made history in the Children’s & Family category.

BAFTA Award Full Winners List 2026

Category	Winner	Film	Director	Country
Best Film	One Battle After Another (Production Team)	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Best Director	Paul Thomas Anderson	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Best Leading Actor	Robert Aramayo	I Swear	Kirk Jones	UK
Best Leading Actress	Jessie Buckley	Hamnet	Chloé Zhao	UK
Best Supporting Actor	Sean Penn	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Best Supporting Actress	Wunmi Mosaku	Sinners	Ryan Coogler	UK / Nigeria
Original Screenplay	Ryan Coogler	Sinners	Ryan Coogler	USA
Adapted Screenplay	Paul Thomas Anderson	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Outstanding British Film	Hamnet (Production Team)	Hamnet	Chloé Zhao	UK
Best Children’s & Family Film	Boong	Boong	Farhan Akhtar	India
Film Not in the English Language	Sentimental Value	Sentimental Value	Joachim Trier	Norway
Animated Film	Zootropolis 2	Zootropolis 2	Jared Bush / Byron Howard	USA
Original Score	Ludwig Göransson	Sinners	Ryan Coogler	USA
Cinematography	Michael Bauman	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Editing	Andy Jurgensen	One Battle After Another	Paul Thomas Anderson	USA
Casting	I Swear (Casting Team)	I Swear	Kirk Jones	UK
Costume Design	Frankenstein	Frankenstein	—	USA
Make Up & Hair	Frankenstein	Frankenstein	—	USA
Documentary	Mr Nobody Against Putin	Mr Nobody Against Putin	—	—
EE Rising Star Award	Robert Aramayo	—	—	UK

About: BAFTA Award

The BAFTA Awards were first held in 1947 by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts to recognise excellence in cinema. The inaugural Best Film winner was Odd Man Out (1947). Over time, BAFTA has become one of the most respected film awards globally.

India has had a meaningful presence at BAFTA over the years. Legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray received the BAFTA Fellowship in 1985, the Academy’s highest honour. In 1983, Gandhi, a film based on Mahatma Gandhi and featuring Indian actors, won multiple BAFTAs, including Best Film.

Composer A. R. Rahman won Best Original Music in 2009 for Slumdog Millionaire. The same film also earned several BAFTAs that year. More recently, the Indian film RRR won Best Original Song in 2023 for “Naatu Naatu".

Conclusion (BAFTA Award 2026)

The BAFTA Awards 2026 once again highlighted the finest achievements in global cinema, celebrating bold storytelling, powerful performances, and technical excellence. From major headline wins to breakthrough talents, the ceremony reflected the evolving landscape of film and reinforced BAFTA’s role as a key marker of international cinematic success.

Vaishnavi Adkar Reaches W100 Singles Final – A Historic First

February 24, 2026

Indian tennis player Vaishnavi Adkar scripted a landmark moment in her career by advancing to her first-ever W100 singles final. The rising star delivered a series of composed and confident performances throughout the tournament, overcoming higher-ranked opponents to secure her place in the title match. Her historic run marks a significant breakthrough, not just personally but also for Indian women’s tennis on the international circuit. Competing at the W100 level represents a major step up, and reaching the final signals her growing consistency and confidence. Adkar’s achievement highlights her steady rise and growing presence on the global stage.

Historic Achievement of Vaishnavi Adkar

Indian tennis player Vaishnavi Adkar has reached her first-ever W100 singles final, marking a major milestone in her professional career.
The W100 level is part of the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour and features higher prize money and tougher international competition.
Her run to the final showcased consistency, mental strength, and improved match temperament.
Throughout the tournament, she defeated strong and higher-ranked opponents to secure her place in the championship match.
Her aggressive baseline play and steady serve proved crucial in tight moments.
The semifinal victory was particularly significant, demonstrating her ability to handle pressure on a big stage.
The tournament was held at an international W100 venue, drawing players from multiple countries.
Reaching the final at this level boosts her WTA ranking and global visibility.
This achievement is considered historic in the context of her career progression.
Her success adds momentum to Indian women’s tennis on the international circuit.
The milestone reflects years of training, discipline, and competitive experience.
With this breakthrough performance, Adkar has positioned herself as one of India’s promising tennis talents moving forward.

Asked PYQs on Tennis Players

Exam / Year	Question	Options	Answer
MPPEB Group 2 (Jan 2017)	The first Indian and only tennis player to compete at seven Olympic Games is?	(A) Mahesh Bhupathi (B) Leander Paes (C) Rohan Bopanna (D) Sania Mirza	Leander Paes
SSC JE ME (2017)	Leander Paes is primarily known for excellence in which category?	(A) Singles (B) Doubles (C) Mixed Relay (D) Coaching	Doubles
General GK	In which year did Mahesh Bhupathi become the first Indian to win a Grand Slam title?	(A) 1997 (B) 1999 (C) 2001 (D) 2003	1997
Banking / SSC GK	Sania Mirza won her first WTA singles title in which year?	(A) 2003 (B) 2005 (C) 2007 (D) 2009	2005
State PSC	Rohan Bopanna became the oldest World No. 1 in men’s doubles at what age?	(A) 40 (B) 41 (C) 43 (D) 45	43
Defence Exam GK	Leander Paes won his Olympic bronze medal in which year?	(A) 1992 (B) 1996 (C) 2000 (D) 2004	1996
SSC CGL GK	Sania Mirza achieved a world No. 1 ranking in which category?	(A) Singles (B) Doubles (C) Mixed Doubles (D) Junior	Doubles
Railways Exam	Mahesh Bhupathi partnered with which player to form the famous “Indian Express” pair?	(A) Rohan Bopanna (B) Leander Paes (C) Sania Mirza (D) Somdev Devvarman	Leander Paes

Conclusion (Vaishnavi Adkar)

Vaishnavi Adkar’s breakthrough run to a W100 singles final marks a defining chapter in her career. Competing against seasoned international opponents, she demonstrated composure, tactical maturity, and the ability to raise her level in crucial moments. This milestone not only strengthens her ranking and confidence but also signals her readiness for bigger stages ahead. For Indian tennis, her rise adds fresh momentum and inspiration for emerging players. If she builds on this form and continues refining her all-court game, Adkar has the potential to become a consistent contender at higher-tier events in the coming seasons.

Vanjeevi Didi Scheme at Palamu Tiger Reserve

February 24, 2026

The Palamu Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand has introduced a community-driven programme titled ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ to strengthen wildlife protection through women’s participation. Launched in February 2026 in the Garu forest range, the initiative identifies educated women from nearby villages to serve as conservation ambassadors. These selected participants will promote awareness about forest preservation, discourage poaching and illegal tree felling, and encourage sustainable practices within local communities. By directly involving women at the grassroots level, the reserve aims to build stronger public support for biodiversity conservation while improving communication between forest officials and residents living near protected areas.

What is the Vanjeevi Didi Scheme?

The Vanjeevi Didi Scheme is a community-based wildlife conservation initiative launched at the Palamu Tiger Reserve.
It was introduced in February 2026 in the Garu forest range to strengthen grassroots participation in forest protection.
The programme focuses on involving local educated women from villages surrounding the tiger reserve.
Around 18 women from each of 17 nearby villages were selected in the initial phase.
These women are appointed as “Vanjeevi Didis", serving as community ambassadors for biodiversity conservation.
Their responsibilities include spreading awareness about wildlife protection and discouraging illegal activities such as poaching and tree felling.
They encourage sustainable forest use and responsible community behaviour.
The initiative recognises the influential role women play within households and rural communities.
Each selected participant receives a monthly honorarium as financial support.
Apart from conservation, they also promote education, government welfare schemes, and social awareness.
The scheme aims to build trust between forest authorities and villagers living near protected areas.
Overall, it represents an inclusive approach to conservation by combining environmental protection with women’s empowerment.

Best PYQs on Tiger Reserve

Exam / Year	Question	Options	Answer
UPSC Prelims 2012	Consider the following protected areas: 1. Bandipur 2. Bhitarkanika 3. Manas 4. Sunderbans Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves?	(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1, 3 and 4 only (C) 2, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4	(B) 1, 3 and 4 only
UPSC Prelims 2020	Among the following tiger reserves, which one has the largest area under critical tiger habitat?	(A) Corbett (B) Ranthambore (C) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam (D) Sunderbans	(C) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam
UPSC Prelims 2013	The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was constituted under which Act?	(A) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (B) Forest Conservation Act, 1980 (C) Environment Protection Act, 1986 (D) Biological Diversity Act, 2002	(A) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
UPSC Prelims 2015	“Project Tiger” is administered by which of the following?	(A) Ministry of Agriculture (B) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (C) Ministry of Rural Development (D) NITI Aayog	(B) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
UPSC Prelims 2018	Which of the following are tiger reserves located in Karnataka? 1. Bandipur 2. Nagarhole 3. Bhadra	(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only (C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 only	(C) 1, 2 and 3
UPSC Prelims 2021	“Dampa Tiger Reserve” is located in which state?	(A) Mizoram (B) Tripura (C) Assam (D) Manipur	(A) Mizoram

Conclusion (Palamu Tiger Reserve Launches 'Vanjeevi Didi')

The ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ initiative at Palamu Tiger Reserve marks a meaningful step toward community-led conservation. By empowering local women to protect forests and spread awareness, the programme strengthens wildlife protection while promoting social responsibility. It reflects a balanced approach, where environmental sustainability and women’s participation move forward together.

Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Heritage Award 2025

February 24, 2026

The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Vasai, Maharashtra, has received the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. The honour acknowledges the careful restoration of the historic church, which stands as one of the region’s oldest surviving Catholic structures. Located in Papdy village, the cathedral underwent a detailed conservation process that respected its original architectural character while strengthening its structure for future generations. Announced during the UNESCO awards ceremony in Bangkok, the recognition highlights the success of collaborative efforts between heritage experts, local authorities, and the community in preserving an important cultural landmark.

Significance of 475-Year-Old Vasai Cathedral, UNESCO Award

The Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Vasai, Maharashtra, is one of the oldest surviving churches in western India, dating back nearly five centuries.
Built during the Portuguese era, it reflects early European ecclesiastical architecture adapted to Indian climatic and cultural conditions.
In 2025, the cathedral received the Award of Merit at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
The honour recognises excellence in preserving historic structures while maintaining authenticity.
Restoration work carefully strengthened the building without altering its original design elements.
Traditional materials and skilled craftsmanship were used to retain historical accuracy.
The project highlighted a strong community-led conservation model, with active involvement from local parish members.
The award enhances the cathedral’s international profile as a protected heritage landmark.
It promotes awareness about safeguarding colonial-era architecture in India.
The recognition also encourages sustainable heritage tourism in the Vasai region.
Overall, the award demonstrates how collaborative conservation efforts can successfully preserve culturally significant monuments for future generations.

PYQs on Cathedrals of India & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Exam / Year	Question (with Options)	Answer
UPSC Prelims 2017	The “Churches and Convents of Goa” are included in which of the following lists? (A) UNESCO World Heritage List (B) Ramsar Sites (C) Biosphere Reserve (D) Tentative List only	(A) UNESCO World Heritage List
UPSC Prelims 2024	Which of the following were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023? 1. Shantiniketan 2. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 3. Rani-ki-Vav 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex (A) Only one (B) Only two (C) Only three (D) All four	(B) Only two
SSC CGL 2019	The Basilica of Bom Jesus is located in which state? (A) Kerala (B) Goa (C) Maharashtra (D) Karnataka	(B) Goa
SSC CHSL 2021	UNESCO stands for: (A) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (B) United Nations Economic and Social Council (C) United Nations Scientific Council (D) United Nations Cultural Heritage Board	(A) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
CDS 2018	The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located in which state? (A) Gujarat (B) Maharashtra (C) Madhya Pradesh (D) Odisha	(B) Maharashtra
NDA 2020	The “Group of Monuments at Hampi” is situated in which state? (A) Tamil Nadu (B) Andhra Pradesh (C) Karnataka (D) Telangana	(C) Karnataka
Railways 2022	The Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO site, is dedicated to which deity? (A) Vishnu (B) Shiva (C) Surya (D) Brahma	(C) Surya

Conclusion (UNESCO Award to 475-Year-Old Vasai Cathedral)

The recognition of the 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Vasai by UNESCO marks a proud moment for India’s cultural heritage. The Award of Merit highlights the importance of preserving historic structures through careful, community-driven restoration. Beyond celebrating architectural beauty, the honour reinforces the value of safeguarding centuries-old traditions and craftsmanship. It also shows how local participation can play a vital role in protecting heritage sites. With this international recognition, the Vasai Cathedral stands not only as a symbol of faith and history but also as a model for responsible conservation across the country.

Goa Hosts World Ocean Science Congress 2026

February 24, 2026

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

Punjab Launches ‘Meri Rasoi’ Scheme

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Shashi Tharoor Conferred Honorary D.Litt by St Xavier’s University

February 24, 2026

Shashi Tharoor was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) by St Xavier’s University at its seventh convocation ceremony held in Kolkata. The university honoured him for his contributions to public life, literature, and intellectual discourse. Addressing the gathering, Tharoor expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a meaningful milestone in his academic and professional journey. The convocation ceremony brought together graduating students, faculty members, and distinguished guests, celebrating academic achievement while highlighting the importance of critical thinking, leadership, and social responsibility in contemporary society.

Significance of Shashi Tharoor’s Honorary D.Litt Award

Shashi Tharoor receiving an honorary Doctor of Letters from St. Xavier’s University marks formal academic recognition of his contributions to public life and literature.
The distinction highlights his influence as a parliamentarian known for articulate debate and policy engagement.
It acknowledges his extensive body of written work covering Indian history, politics, culture, and global affairs.
The honour reflects the growing role of public intellectuals in shaping informed democratic conversations.
His background in international diplomacy, including years at the United Nations, adds global depth to the recognition.
The award reinforces the link between higher education and public leadership, showing that scholarship and governance can complement each other.
Being honoured at a university convocation makes the moment particularly meaningful for graduating students.
It sends a message that intellectual curiosity and communication skills are valuable assets in public service.
The recognition also enhances the university’s academic tradition of celebrating individuals who contribute significantly to society.
Overall, the award underlines the importance of ideas, dialogue, and informed leadership in contemporary India.

About: Shashi Tharoor & his Books

Shashi Tharoor is an Indian Member of Parliament, former UN Under-Secretary-General, and prolific author of fiction and non-fiction.
The Great Indian Novel (1989) – Won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize (1991).
Show Business (1992) – A satirical novel on Indian cinema and politics.
India: From Midnight to the Millennium (1997) – Won the Sahitya Akademi Award (2000).
Nehru: The Invention of India (2003) – Political biography of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Pax Indica (2012) – Focuses on India’s foreign policy in the 21st century.
An Era of Darkness (2016) / Inglorious Empire (2017 UK edition) – Won the Sahitya Akademi Award (2019).
Why I Am a Hindu (2018) – Explores faith, identity, and pluralism.
The Paradoxical Prime Minister (2018) – Political analysis of Narendra Modi’s leadership.
The Hindu Way (2019) and The Battle of Belonging (2020) – Address religion, nationalism, and Indian identity.

Conclusion (Shashi Tharoor gets Honorary D.Litt by St Xavier’s)

The honorary D.Litt. conferred on Shashi Tharoor by St. Xavier’s University recognises his contributions to literature, public service, and intellectual debate. The honour reflects the value of scholarship and leadership while inspiring students to engage thoughtfully with ideas, democracy, and global perspectives.