Indian shooter Sift Kaur Samra produced a sensational come-from-behind performance to win her first individual ISSF World Cup gold in the women's 50m rifle 3-positions final in shooting World Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

• Esha Singh bagged a second individual World Cup silver in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• The 23-year-old Sift from Faridkot thus earned India its first gold of the season-opening World Cup stage event at the Tiro Federal Argentino de Buenos Aires shooting range late on Friday( 4 April).
• The world record holder was a huge 7.2 points behind Anita Mangold of Germany after 15-shots in the first Kneeling position. However, she staged a dream comeback in the second Prone and final Standing positions to win by a canter in the end.

The 11th Pondicherry Heritage Festival (PHF 2025) celebrated the rich cultural and architectural legacy of Puducherry with a series of engaging events and activities.

Key Highlights:

Veedhi Vilayattu (Street Games): On April 6, 2025, the Tamil Quarter transformed into a vibrant playground where over 250 children participated in traditional games like Pallanguzhi, Pambaram, Dhayam, and Pacha Kuthirai. This initiative aimed to reconnect the younger generation with age-old recreational practices. 

Creative Expressions Competitions: Held from January 25 to February 7, 2025, these competitions encompassed singing, instrumental performances, painting, creative writing, photography, and more, providing a platform for students to showcase their talents. 

Sustainable Heritage Theme: Emphasizing eco-friendly practices, the festival highlighted the importance of conservation and responsible tourism in preserving Puducherry's cultural heritage. 

Community Engagement: Local residents actively participated by preparing traditional snacks and beverages, fostering a sense of nostalgia and community spirit. 

PHF 2025 successfully blended tradition with contemporary themes, reinforcing the significance of heritage in modern society