<h4>Queen Ahilyabai Holkar: A Visionary Ruler</h4><p>The <strong>31st of May</strong> commemorates the birth anniversary of <strong>Queen Ahilyabai Holkar</strong>, a revered figure in Indian history. She was born on <strong>May 31, 1725</strong>, in the village of <strong>Chondi</strong>, located in the <strong>Ahmednagar district</strong> of <strong>Maharashtra</strong>.</p><p>In <strong>1733</strong>, <strong>Ahilyabai Holkar</strong> married <strong>Khanderao Holkar</strong>, who was the son of <strong>Malhar Rao Holkar</strong>. <strong>Malhar Rao Holkar</strong> was the esteemed founder of the <strong>Holkar dynasty</strong> within the powerful <strong>Maratha Empire</strong>.</p><p>Following the unfortunate death of her husband in <strong>1754</strong>, <strong>Ahilyabai Holkar</strong> ascended to the throne. She subsequently became the influential ruler of the <strong>Malwa kingdom</strong>, demonstrating exceptional leadership and administrative prowess.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Birth Date:</strong> May 31, 1725</li><li><strong>Birthplace:</strong> Chondi, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra</li><li><strong>Husband:</strong> Khanderao Holkar</li><li><strong>Dynasty:</strong> Holkar (Maratha Empire)</li><li><strong>Reign:</strong> Ruler of Malwa kingdom after 1754</li></ul></div><p>Her reign was marked by significant contributions to both public works and social reforms. She was instrumental in the construction and renovation of numerous temples across India, including the renowned <strong>Kashi Vishwanath Temple</strong> in <strong>Varanasi</strong>.</p><p>Beyond infrastructure, <strong>Ahilyabai Holkar</strong> was a progressive social reformer. She courageously abolished the regressive practice of <strong>Sati</strong> within her kingdom. Furthermore, she actively championed and promoted both <strong>education</strong> and <strong>women’s rights</strong>, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment.</p><p><strong>Ahilyabai Holkar</strong> passed away on <strong>August 13, 1795</strong>, leaving behind a profound impact on Indian society and governance.</p><h4>WHO Report on Global Immunisation: A Landmark Achievement</h4><p>Recently, the <strong>World Health Organisation (WHO)</strong> released a significant study highlighting the immense success of global immunisation efforts. This report revealed that these initiatives have collectively saved an estimated <strong>154 million lives</strong> over the past <strong>50 years</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Organisation:</strong> World Health Organisation (WHO)</li><li><strong>Report Finding:</strong> Global Immunisation saved an estimated <strong>154 million lives</strong></li><li><strong>Period:</strong> Over the past 50 years</li></ul></div><p>The release of this crucial report coincided with <strong>World Immunization Week</strong>. It was strategically timed ahead of the upcoming <strong>50th anniversary</strong> of the <strong>Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI)</strong>, which is scheduled to take place in <strong>May 2024</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The <strong>WHO report</strong> underscores the unparalleled impact of widespread vaccination on global public health, preventing countless deaths and significantly improving life expectancy worldwide.</p></div>