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New Delhi, Oct 19: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday extended her greetings to citizens on the eve of Vijayadashami, describing the festival as a symbol of the triumph of Dharma and justice over Adharma and injustice. In a message, the President conveyed her heartfelt wishes to Indians living both in the country and abroad on the auspicious occasion. President Murmu said Vijayadashami holds special significance as it marks the victory of Bhagwan Shri Ram over Ravana. Describing Shri Ram as the embodiment of righteousness and moral conduct, she said the festival celebrates the victory of truth, virtue and justice. The President noted that Indian culture is rooted in the ideals of morality and duty. She called upon citizens to reaffirm their commitment to the noble values of the country's cultural traditions and contribute towards building an inclusive society and a Viksit Bharat. President Murmu also extended her wishes for the happiness, good health and well-being of all citizens. Also Read: Maha Navami Rituals Underway at Shaktipeeths in Odisha; Puja Pandals Celebrate Maha Ashtam i Vijayadashami, popularly known as Dussehra, is one of India's most significant festivals, marking the culmination of Navratri and Durga Puja celebrations. Observed on the tenth day of Ashvin, it symbolises the victory of good over evil and reaffirms the timeless values of truth, righteousness and courage. The festival is celebrated across the country with spiritual devotion, gaiety and fervour.

Mumbai, Oct 19: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday appointed Odisha-born former India spinner Pragyan Ojha as the chairman of the men's national selection committee, after the exit of former chairman Ajit Agarkar. Former India all-rounder Ramesh Powar has also been inducted into the committee as its newest member. Ojha, who hails from Odisha and represented India with distinction in the longest format, will head the selection panel based on seniority in terms of Test appearances among the selectors. His elevation marks a significant moment for Odisha cricket, with one of the state's most accomplished cricketers assuming a crucial administrative role in Indian cricket. New Selection Panel Besides Ojha and Powar, the selection committee comprises former India cricketers Shiv Sundar Das from Odisha, RP Singh and Ajay Ratra. The panel will be tasked with selecting India's men's squads across formats and shaping the team's future roadmap. Powar's appointment followed a selection process conducted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising former cricketers Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape. The duo interviewed candidates at the BCCI headquarters before unanimously recommending Powar for the role. Ojha Gets the Top Role Questions had persisted over who would chair the committee following Agarkar's departure. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer was among the candidates for the selector's post and had more Test appearances than Ojha, making the final decision a subject of interest within cricketing circles. However, the BCCI's announcement confirmed Ojha as the chairman of the committee entrusted with one of the most influential responsibilities in Indian cricket. The left-arm spinner represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs and six T20 Internationals, claiming 113 Test wickets during an international career that established him as a reliable performer in the national setup. Renowned for his accuracy and consistency, Ojha played a key role in several memorable Test victories for India.