AV 17th May 2025

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE

The rise of online grooming in the UK P13 -----------------Dementia Action Week P14 ------------------

After Rohit, Kohli too announces retirement from Test cricket P32

17 - 23 MAY 2025

“NOT AN ERA OF TERRORISM”

Talks with Pakistan can only happen on terror and return of PoK, nothing else: PM Modi

Subhasini Naicker

B r i t i s h I n d i a n d i a s p o r a

Modi for his firm stance against terrorism, following the launch of Operation Sindoor.

I n h i s a

longer tolerate nuclear blackmail and will respond decisively to any terrorist a

decisive shift in India's strategy, setting a new standard in the fight against terrorism," he declared

During the operation, several leaders called for dialogue and de-escalation, while others affirmed India’s right to defend itself against terrorism UK

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, address-

Pakistan will be of serious concern for many across Britain."

Continued on page 16-17

Community celebrates the 53rd anniversary of Gujarat Samachar

On 10 May, the community came together at the Navnat Centre, Hayes to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of Gujarat Samachar, a publication that

with warmth, gratitude and reflections on the journey of the newspaper, which continues to connect generations through news, culture and heritage Dignitaries, politicians, sup-

heartfelt tributes, celebrating not just a newspaper but a living legacy.

A full report of this memorable celebration will be featured in next week’s edition of Asian Voice

Starmer vows to fix broken immigration system

Anusha Singh

unveiled a sweeping immigration overhaul, declaring an end to what he calls a “squalid chapter” in British politics. The Labour leader has pledged to “take back

tighter rules on who can live, work, and settle in the UK

“We will create a migration system

Starmer said while launching the 2025 Immigration White Paper “A clean break with the past that links access to visas

skills so settlement becomes a privilege that is earned, not a right.”

This is far from the first time a UK government has vowed to curb migration

Continued on page 15

‘The blood of our dearest must not have flowed in vain’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Air Warriors and Soldiers at Adampur airforce base

Veena Dhamecha

Pradip Dhamecha

Prime Minister Keir Starmer gives a press conference on migration in 9 Downing Street

Wes Streeting criticises junior doctor strike ballot

H eal th S ec reta r y We s Streeting h as co nd em ned ju nior d octors fo r launching a strike ballot befo re r ec ei v i ng a fo rm a l p ay o ffer, calling it “ u nnecessary ” and “premature ” He

w a rn ed th a t rene w ed s tr i kes c o u ld d e rai l L abo u r ’ s NH S r ec o v er y p lan, which hinges on endi ng indu strial action and red ucing waiting lists

T h e B r i t i s h Me d i c a l

A s s o c i a t i o n ( B M A )

announced on Friday that it would ballot junior doctors after Streeting refused to commit to restoring pay to 2008 levels within two

y e a r s T h e b a l l o t c o u l d a u t h o r i s e s i x m o n t h s o f strikes The BMA said it was holding f irm, insisting, “justice demands we hold the line ”

St r e e t i n g p r o m i s e d a “good pay offer” but said demands exceeding 10 per c e n t w e r e u n r e a l i s t i c “I met with them last week and said honestly that RPI p l u s 8 – 9 p e r c e n t i s n’t deliverable,” he told Times

Radio He urged the BMA

t o “ h o l d y o u r h o r s e s , ” insisting doctors will see m o v e m e n t i n t h e r i g h t direction once the offer is revealed

Me a n w h i l e , t e

over a proposed 3 per cent pay rise raising concerns that a better deal for doct o r

unrest among NHS staff

Amid the pay dispute, t h

n

w

y a p p

d interim chief executive of N H S E n g l a n d , Si r Ji m

Mackey, asserted that he

won’t be a pushover for ministers Speaking pub-

, Mackey said he had “ no problem” standing up to Streeting or government off icials as NHS England

m

Department of Health

“If I have a view, I’m

that Streeting was “actual-

with contrar

views

St

plans in March to scrap NHS England responsible for the £200 billion health budget resulting in around 12,000 job cuts W

progress, Mackey backed the move, saying it was “naive” to think an agency consuming such vast public resources could remain politically independent M

that f irm leadership and structural reform are vital to reviving the NHS

Cambridge hospital accused of cover up

A dden br ooke's Hospita l, one of the UK’s lead in g medical

i n s t i t u t io n s , h a s be e n

a ccused of cover in g up con -

c e r n s a bo u t su r g e on Kuldee p Stohr, who wa s suspe nde d ear lier th is yea r a fter

a r e v ie w u n co v e r e d p r o blems with her sur ger ie s

T h e C a m b r i d g e

Un i v e r s i t y Ho s p i t a l s N H S

Fo u n d a t i o n Tr u s t (C U H ) announced it was reviewing the care of 800 patients after

St o h r w a s s u s p e n d e d i n Januar y An investigation by Sky News and The Sunday Times revealed that the trust

may have downplayed concerns raised as early as 2016

A senior source claimed

t h a t c h i l d r e n h a d b e e n "s e v e r e l y p e r m a n e n t l y h a r m e

n d o u

a n

v o i d a b l e I n o n e instance, a child with a broken arm was left untreated

fo r 1 1 d ay s b

e St o h r failed to identify the injur y

A l t h o u g h

x t e r n a l expert reviewed Stohr's cases in 2015, a letter shared with Sky News indicated the trust fo u n d n o c o n c e r n s Ho w e v e r, t h e e x p

obtained, revealed "technical

action was not taken sooner

In response, Stohr said she had always strived to provide high standards of care, and is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation

U H’s

D r Su

Br o s t e r, apologised for the failures and conf irmed an independent investigation is underway, with f indings expected by autumn

Britain to prioritise partnerships over paternalism

T h e new a id m i n is te r, B aron ess Jenny C h ap m an, w ill tell M Ps that the era of the U K acting as a “global ch arity” is o ver

p e

for the f irst time since taking the role in Februar y, her a

ation over aid budget cuts to fund defence spending

Tory extinction looms amid political upheaval

Former

I N B R I E F CIVIL SERVANTS TO SHIFT

OUT OF LONDON

C hancello r Jeremy Hunt has warned th at the Conservativ e Party cannot dism iss the risk of political extinction, citing a “massive earthquake” in British p olitics and the collap se of th e traditio nal two-party system Senior Tories are increasingly unsettled by polling that shows the party’s support in free fall, while Reform UK continues to surge Supporters of the current leadership have urged calm, asking colleagues to give Kemi Badenoch more time to reverse the party’s fortunes Former party leader William Hague joined former cabinet ministers Andrew Mitchell and John Glen in rejecting calls for a pact with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, instead encouraging unity and patience

However, there is growing concern among some Conser vatives that there may be little left of the party to salvage if Reform maintains its momentum Sources within the party have described a lack of urgency at Conser vative Campaign Headquarters, while reports suggest many grassroots activists and local agents have already defected to Reform

A YouGov Westminster voting intention poll showed Reform UK at 29%, Labour at 22%, the Conser vatives trailing at 17%, the Liberal Democrats at 16%, and the Greens at 10% It marks the Tories' worst polling since June 2019, during the political turmoil that led to Theresa May’s resignation For Labour, it’s the lowest rating since October 2019 under Jeremy Corbyn

Assisted deaths raise concerns over risk of foul play

Th e Assisted Dying Bill could v iolate the Europ ean Convention o n Hu man Rights by remo ving th e possibility o f an “effective inquest” into assisted deaths, a former chief coroner h as warned

B a r o n

n y Chapman is expected to tell MPs that UK aid will focus on sharing expertise rather

stating: “The days of viewing

a global charity are over ” She will emphasise impact, eff iciency, and value for taxpaye

UK’s commitment to development The aid budget was cut from 0 5% to 0 3% of GNI in Februar y, sparking concerns that the reduction could cost lives in poorer countries

expected to say that developing countries prefer “partn e r i n g , n o t p

t

r n a l i s m , ” citing a UK-Bangladesh deal to improve flood forecasting She will stress the need to support local systems

In a letter to The Times, Judge Thomas Teague KC, who ser ved as the chief coroner of England and Wales until 2024, highlighted a clause in the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill that would prevent coroners from investigating assisted deaths, even if the circumstances are suspicious This marks a departure from the usual practice of investigating potentially unnatural deaths

Judge Teague, in his letter, warned that removing the coroner ’ s investigative role would amplify the risks of deception and undue influence He argued that a coroner ’ s inquest ser ves as a crucial deterrent against wrongdoing, and without it, such deaths could be more vulnerable to manipulation

Teague further cautioned that this aspect of the bill could render it incompatible with Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which mandates that the state investigate deaths in suspicious circumstances The bill’s current wording states that assisted deaths will not be considered "unnatural," thus exempting them from coroner inquiries

Teague believes this lack of oversight could expose the law to legal challenges on the grounds of non-compliance with the state's investigative duty under the ECHR

Whitehall departments will be required to outline plans to relocate thousands of civil servants from London as a condition for securing Treasury funding in the upcoming spending review The move aims to bring policymaking closer to communities and boost regional economies Currently, around 100,000 of the UK’s 513,000 civil servants are based in London Under the government ’s Places for Growth initiative 22 ,000 roles are set to move to cities including Leeds, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Bristol potentially delivering over £700 million in economic benefits by 2030 The relocation strategy, launched by Rishi Sunak in 2020, has now been adopted by Labour as part of its plans to reform the civil service This includes proposals to cut over 10,000 jobs, following its expansion during Brexit and the pandemic Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden will instruct departments that June’s funding allocations will depend on submitting relocation plans A new strategic workforce plan will also assess the civil service’s future size and structure

ENERGY FIRMS TO REPAY £7M FOR OVERCHARGING

Ten energy suppliers are refunding a total of £7 million to customers after overcharging them for five years More than 34 000 customers across the UK with properties that had at least two electricity meters were overbilled between 2019 and 2024 Ofgem found that these customers were “erroneously charged more than is allowed under the price cap when combined with unit rates ” Following an investigation, suppliers agreed to repay £5 million in refunds and a further £1 4 million in goodwill payments Octopus Energy had the highest number of affected customers 20,862 and will pay out £2 6 million Other suppliers issuing refunds include Eon Next Ecotricity EDF Outfox the Market, Ovo Energy, Rebel Energy, So Energy, Tru Energy, and Utility Warehouse Refunds will be made automatically to affected customers Those who have since switched suppliers will be contacted by their former provider to arrange repayment

COUNCIL STAFF BUSTED FOR JUGGLING MULTIPLE JOB S

Dozens of council employees across the UK have been found to be working multiple full-time jobs at different local authorities simultaneously, according to i Freedom of Information requests and public records show that at least nine councils have uncovered 37 instances of so - called polygamous working since the start of the pandemic At least three councils have launched prosecutions for fraud related to the practice, with one known conviction already secured Some councils have pointed to the rise of remote working as a factor that allowed such cases to go undetected Campaigners warn that these revelations may represent just a fraction of the problem, suggesting the true number of cases could run into the hundreds potentially costing millions in taxpayers’ money at a time when council budgets are under severe strain and services face ongoing cuts

Wes Streeting

Jeremy Hunt

Thomas Teague KC

Immigrants deserve respect, not reproach

The Prime Minister has unveiled plans to ban the recruitment of care workers from overseas, tighten access to skilled worker visas, and raise costs for employers; all in an effort to curb near-record levels of net migration

Sir Keir Starmer has promised that these new immigration measures will lead to a “significant” fall in net migration over the next four years However, the decision to publish an immigration white paper just a week after Reform UK made notable gains in the local elections, and while it is polling strongly at the national level, is difficult to justify It sets off the question if British politics has reached a point where a ruling party is so unnerved by the opposition that it effectively allows it to dictate government policy? Rather than defusing public anxieties, the government risks playing into the hands of the hard right and undermining the community cohesion he claims to defend

The Prime Minister will certainly erode cohesion if he suggests that immigrants must earn their rights Once they settle in the UK, immigrants devote themselves to their ‘karmabhoomi’ with dedication and determination They contribute tirelessly, often going above and beyond to give back to the society they now call home Those who are making the UK their home today will continue to do so with the same spirit Are these individuals now being told they must “ earn ” their place? They have already done more than enough Their place in this country is not something to be “earned”, it has been earned, many times over

The timing and tone of the Prime Minister’s com-

ments, especially calling the UK an “island of strangers” and warning of “forces pulling our country apart”, are deeply troubling as well This kind of language can create fear and division, and encourage hostility towards immigrants

The white paper also sounds harsh and unfair It talks about “fairness”, “integration”, and “public confidence”, but its actual proposals tell a different story They would give more power to the government, reduce individual rights, and weaken the role of the courts Simply put, these changes don’t move us forward, they take us backwards

Of course, some of the proposed measures are reasonable However, others are not The pledge to deport

Extending counter-terrorism-style powers to the Border Force is more likely to incite fear than ensure safety

Cancelling social care visas due to alleged “abuse” endangers a sector already in crisis Raising salary thresholds for visa holders with dependents disproportionately harms lower-paid workers And while a review of student visas may be warranted, the real issue lies in the chronic underfunding of higher education, not in the presence of international students

promises but Tory failures do not excuse Labour missteps Migrants have long been, and will continue to be, a vital part of the UK’s workforce, academia and community The government and its MPs must boldly and clearly affirm these contributions rather than dragging them through the mud

India today is not the India of the past

When India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 of its citizens, global voices were quick to urge "restraint" US Vice President JD Vance, among others, warned against escalation But where was this diplomacy when the United States conducted targeted operations in Pakistan to eliminate Osama bin Laden? That act was hailed as bold, necessary and heroic Why, then, is India, a global power with a mature democratic system, questioned and pressured when it acts to eliminate terror camps across the border?

India has consistently shown remarkable restraint

But as Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently stated, “Peace cannot come through silence or surrender ” Any future discussions with Pakistan will only be about terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, not normalisation “Talks and trade cannot go with terror ”

What the Indian Army carried out in Operation Sindoor, using precision drones, fighter jets and real-time intelligence to neutralise terror hubs, should be seen as a modern, proportionate and justified military response Yet instead of support, India is met with caution and criticism

More concerning still is the role of global institutions such as the IMF, which continue to fund Pakistan, a state whose economy falters under mismanagement, yet which always finds the resources to support cross-border terrorism These bailouts do not serve the people of Pakistan They prop up a system that actively threatens regional and international stability This is not diplomacy It is complicity

The West must also be wary of the geopolitical undercurrents China and Turkey continue to support Pakistan not out of goodwill, but to establish strategic footholds

that allow them influence over Western economies and diplomacy Permitting Pakistan to remain a fragile, nuclear-armed state while funnelling IMF money into its system effectively opens a back door for Beijing and Ankara to increase their reach into the West

Meanwhile, Donald Trump rushed to claim credit for a

approached India Trump, who previously commented that Ukraine might eventually "be Russian someday", displays no consistent stance on sovereignty or conflict Why interfere with India’s sovereign right to defend itself when it offers silence on far more aggressive occupations?

The double standards are stark

India does not need external validation to secure its borders But the world must make a choice Will it continue applying different rules when it comes to Western military actions versus Indian self-defence? Or will it finally unite in taking a principled stand against terrorism, regardless of where it occurs or who commits it?

India today is not the India of the past It is a military power with cutting-edge technology, a nuclear deterrent, one of the world’s largest standing armies, and the ability to conduct precise, intelligence-led strikes But it is also a soft power giant, the fastest-growing major economy, a leader in digital innovation, pharmaceuticals, climate diplomacy and space exploration India’s decisions are sovereign, its capabilities are unmatched in South Asia, and its influence stretches across continents

The world must take cognisance: India is not a passive actor but a pillar of global stability It is time global powers stop dictating terms to New Delhi and begin listening India does not just belong at the table, it will soon be leading it

First American pontiff with a global vision

In a historic decision, cardinals from around the world elected Robert Francis Prevost as the new leader of the Catholic Church’s 1 4 billion followers, making him the first pope from the United States Upon his election, he took the papal name Leo XIV While Prevost had long been seen as a strong candidate, some doubted whether a US citizen could ever ascend to the papacy, given America's global influence However, his dual Peruvian citizenship and years of service in Peru, both a missionary and bishop added depth to his international and pastoral credentials

Appearing on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica for his first public address as the successor to Pope Francis, Leo XIV greeted the world with the words, “Peace be with you ” He brings with him a message rooted in peace, justice, and compassion, envisioning a future where dialogue replaces division and understanding triumphs over conflict and aggression

Despite being the first American pope, Leo XIV has shown little political alignment with US leadership Many had speculated his election could benefit President Donald Trump, potentially bolstering his image on the world stage Instead, the opposite has emerged On paper, Pope Leo seems to stand against much of what Trump and Vice President JD Vance represent, particularly on issues like migration and the politicisation of Catholic doctrine

Thought for the week

"I am no bird; and no net ensnares me."

– Charlotte Brontë

Alpesh Patel

1

Months before his election, then-Cardinal Prevost shared articles on social media openly criticising both leaders In one repost, he challenged Vance’s use of medieval theology to justify cutting foreign aid, sharing an article titled “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others ” He later shared commentary opposing Trump-era mass deportations, and his final post before becoming pope condemned the wrongful deportation of a migrant, asking, “Is your conscience not disturbed?” Ironically, Trump had recently posted an AI-generated image of himself dressed as pope, and later called Prevost’s election “ a great honour for our country ” Pope Leo XIV’s global outlook also includes a deep connection to India As Prior General of the Augustinian Order from 2001 to 2013, he visited India twice, meeting communities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and even posing for a photo outside a school in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, in 2006 In his first Sunday address in St Peter’s Square, he called on world powers for “ no more war ” and welcomed the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, praying for the “miracle of peace ” As the world begins to learn more about this quietly progressive pontiff, many wonder whether Pope Leo XIV will continue in the footsteps of Pope Francis or chart a new but equally compassionate path forward

The women were wid owed The ir husba nds sh ot in fr ont of the m for be ing Hindu The ope ra tion wa s ca lled “Sindoor” be ca use the red m ark ing a woma n we ars upon ma rria ge is no lon ger worn upon her husband s d eat h The word Sin door wa s chosen for the operation to sa y a n ation st and s wit h those wome n The re a re ma ny Gode sses in the Hin du fa it h Some t ake the form of warr iors

Cowards die many deaths The brave only once May the terrorists not yet killed live a long long life They will die many deaths

A United Nations designated terrorist confirmed his family was killed in the surgical strikes Meanwhile those hosting him, as they hosted Bin Laden, celebrate fake news of shooting down the very weapons of justice that they should be celebrating came to liberate them of the terrorists they so often claim of which they are victims

This is not about national boundaries and international law For the righteous it’s not about religion There is a moral Dharmic duty Dharma Karma These are words in a Western vocabulary too Now we all learned a little bit more about Hindus It’s why as we commemorate VE Day in Europe, Gandhi, a Hindu, agreed to Indian troops participating in the British Empire’s war effort Dharma

We know this is not about religion for one side, because Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Sikh, men and women joined in the anti-terrorist attack The picture shows Col Sofiya Qureshi To her I say baarak Allāhu fīk What does this have to do with the UK? 7/7 And all the other terrorist attacks Any religion can be hijacked by terrorists probably Whichever one at this point in time is being hijacked needs the help and making of common cause of all peoples of good will to rid them of the disease Just as Germany needed ridding of Nazism by both the British, the Empire, the allies, and Germans themselves For the sake of humanity

(For full disclosure, my son's nanny is a Pakistani Muslim Kashmiri The first investor is my hedge fund a Pakistani Muslim and number 1 role model for me They love their country and faith For Indians it's about Dharma - VE Day reminds us that) So I will give you som e pre dict ions:

1 PM Shariff will end up in prison within 24 months It’s the Pakistani way

2 The Army Chief behind this ‘misadventure’ (oh please stop using that word, and ‘befitting reply’) Asim Munir, will seek exile in Saudi Arabia or UAE in a few years His successor will also have the same bright idea to send terrorists into Kashmir

3 The West will equivocate and with ‘fair and balanced’ wording, instead of stating clearly, Pakistan is a terrorist rogue State Because they still hold hopes for Afghanistan

4 Pakistan in July as Chair of the UN Security Council will use this as a means to focus on their obsession over Kashmir

5 Russia will use its veto to block Pakistani UN resolutions Britain will not, it will abstain

6 Israel will be selling more hardware to India Post 26/11 attacks, I was at the meeting with Lord Mandelson and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra when UK’s desire to sell military defensive hardware came up Israel was the preferred option

7 US will dangle F35 jet sales Because they’ve got complacent about their national security, thinking they are far from Islamist terrorists

8 Chinese satellites and cyber attacks will continue to be used to help the Pakistanis – against India

9 Mysteriously, Pakistani terrorists will find themselves with sudden illnesses in US, Canada, Germany

December – their social media loons will import more keyboards from China for their ‘warriors’

11 India will continue to produce in GDP growth a new Pakistan each year as it already does So much for Partition? India makes the same economic output as the whole of Pakistan, through annual growth alone

12 India will diversify its fighter jets from Raphaels

13 India will accelerate its domestic iron dome programme and drone programme

14 Despite the provocation, no Hindus will attack Muslims in India The country will remain unified and not fall into the ‘divide and rule’ on religious ground playbook

15 The outstanding Indian High Commissioner in London will continue to embarrass the Pakistanis

16 Yalda Hakim on Sky TV will continue to embarrass the Pakistani officials

17 India will continue to grow and prosper The UK naval and army exercises will continue Pakistan will within 12 months go to the IMF and World Bank – both of whom’s senior management are Indian

18 The CIA (who answer to Tulsi Gabbard) and FBI (whose chief is Kash Patel) have said they will help India track the terrorists and their sponsors They will Ajit Doval will meet both heads in a few months in person for intelligence on the next set of targets

University mergers loom as sector faces deepening financial crisis

A w av e of university mergers could soon resh ape the U K’s hig her ed ucation lands cap e as ins titu tio ns co nf ro n

res, accord ing to the

( UUK

executive of UUK, warned that the sector faces a “criti-

c a l m o m e n t ” t h a t w i l l require major transforma-

t i o n S p e a k i n g o n B B C Radio 5 Live, she said the s c a l e o f f i n a n c i a l s t r a i n means institutions can no longer simply “cut around the edges” and must explore structural reforms, includ-

i n g f o r m i n g g r o u p - s t y l e arrangements akin to school multi-academy trusts

Her comments follow a UUK survey of 60 universi-

t i e s , w h i c h r e v e a l e d t h a t nearly half have already cut c o u r s e s t o m a n a g e c o s t s , and 88% anticipate further closures or consolidations in the next three years

“I think there will probably be a few mergers, ” Stern said “Many of our members are talking about forming group structures, which may

lead to some consolidation in the sector ”

T h

for UK universities has been

warned that 72% of higher

England could be running at a

include stagnant domestic

falling international student numbers Although fees are

£9,535 in 2025–26, university leaders argue this is insufficient to cover rising costs I n r

Department for Education s

much less wasteful spend-

need for long-term sustain-

State has been clear there must be a renewed drive for efficiency,” a spokesperson said

Meanwhile, the government is reportedly consider-

salaries to vice-chancellors while delivering poor out-

Education Secretary Bridget P

the rankings as part of

reform plan expected later this summer

Defending vice-chancellor salaries on BBC Radio

said, “These are very complex, difficult roles They are highly paid, yes, but for a reason

calling for immediate gov-

long-term structural solutions to safeguard the future of UK higher education

Meghan Markle turned to Ayurveda during her pregnancies

M egh an Markle, Duch ess of Sus sex, sh ared on h er po dcas t ‘ C o nf e s s i o ns o f a F e m a l e

F ou nder’ that she tu rned to

A yu r ved a du rin g h e r p re gn a nc i es w it h Ar c h i e an d

Lilibet

Discussing the benefits of viewing "food as medicine"

a n d u s i n g a d a p t o g e n s l i k e

m u s h r o o m s , s h e a c k n o w ledged that some may find the

a p p r o a c h u n c o n v e n t i o n a l

T h e e p i s o d e , r e l e a s e d o n Archie's sixth birthday, fea-

t u r e d a c o n v e r s a t i o n w i t h Hannah Mendoza, founder of Clevr Blends

In the episode, Meghan Markle shared her interest in Ayurveda, which emphasizes balancing the body, and credited an Ayurvedic practitioner for teaching her to view

" f o o d a s m e d i c i n e " S h e

p r a i s e d a d a p t o g e n s l i k e m u s h r o o m s b u t a c k n o w l -

edged that some might find

t h e a p p r o a c h " a l i t t l e psychedelic and super woow o o " S h e e x p l a i n e d , "Mushrooms have long been part of our ecosystem, but now people associate them with trends I believe these ingredients have properties that can safely make you feel differently During my pregnancies, I had an Ayurvedic doctor, and much of it was a b o u t s e e i n g f o o d a s medicine "

M e g h a n a d d e d , " W h e n people hear mushrooms, they often think it’s about being 'hippie-dippy' or 'psychedelic,' especially if they're unfamiliar with adaptogens "

I n t e r e s t i n g l y , P r i n c e Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’ also r e f e r e n c e s h i s u s e o f p s y c h e d e l i c s , i n c l u d i

California in 2016 The cou-

Ayurvedic doctor's advice to play Sanskrit songs in the delivery room and whisper

everything said to

in their first minute of life

Reform UK councillors accused of sharing

far-right, Islamophobic posts

U p t o 1 2 n ew l y ele c ted

Refo rm U K councillors are u nd er scrutiny fo r sh aring social m ed ia posts supp orting the far right or containing Islam ophobic content

Some have shared material from Britain First, a farr i g h t g r o u p k n o

after Reform UK won 677 local council seats, with the party facing renewed questions over its vetting process Reform UK councillors under scrutiny include Paul H

who endorsed a Britain First

post supporting mass deportations, and Russell Cherry ( T

retweeted the group

leader, Paul Golding, convicted

content Reform UK used

r o m U S firm Ferretly, which scans for hate speech and extremi

ness R

criticism for relying heavily

, despite claiming to have the

Charity highlights 'shocking' Asthma health inequalities in England

People from minority ethnic backg rounds in England's most d eprived areas are up to three times m ore likely to require emerg ency asthma treatment than their w hite counterp arts, a new analysis has revealed

Research by Asthma and Lung UK, based on NHS data, shows that Asian individuals with asthma in the most deprived areas are nearly three times more likely to be hospitalized in an emergency than white individuals Black people with asthma in the same areas are more than twice as likely to require emergency admission

People aged 45 to 54 with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the most deprived areas are nine times more likely to be admitted to hospital in an emergency than those in wealthier areas, according to the analysis

One in five people in the UK will develop a lung condition in their lifetime, with asthma affecting one in nine adults and one in eight children Asthma and Lung UK’s survey of over 9,000 individuals found that 34 2% of those experiencing material deprivation had used emergency care in the past year Nearly 17% struggled to keep their homes warm, a figure that rises to 28 2% among renters

Sarah Sleet, chief executive of Asthma and Lung UK, called the figures “shocking health inequalities” and pointed out that the UK has the worst death rate in Europe for lung conditions She emphasised that lung diseases are more closely linked to inequality than any other health issue

Sleet highlighted how social factors like poor housing, mould, damp, and air pollution exacerbate chronic lung conditions, especially in deprived and ethnic minority communities She urged the government to prioritise respiratory health in its 10-year NHS plan, advocati n g f o r

efforts to reduce smoking, tackle air pollution, and improve housing quality

Asylum housing costs triple amid small boat surge

Th e cost of asylum accom mod ation is set to triple ov er the next decade due to rising numbers o f m i g rants arriv i ng o n s m all b oats , acco rding to the Natio nal A udit Office (NA O)

The ten-year contract with three private providers, which began in 2019, was initially p r

9 However, the latest forecast now estimates the cost will reach £15 3 billion

I N B R I E F JUNK FOOD ADS MAKE KIDS EAT MORE, STUDY FINDS

Children consume significantly more calories after just five minutes of junk food advertising, a new study reveals Researchers found that youngsters aged 7 to 15 ate an average of 130 extra calories equivalent to two slices of bread after exposure to ads for foods high in fat sugar and salt The study conducted in Merseyside involved 240 children who were shown junk food and non-food ads on separate occasions before being offered snacks and lunch options Children consumed 130 extra calories after seeing junk food ads, a study to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity found The effect was consistent across all ad types and applied even to brand-only promotions Lead author Professor Emma Boyland said it’s the first evidence that such ads directly influence children’s eating Experts warned the findings highlight a loophole in the UK’s upcoming pre-9pm junk food ad ban

HOUSE OF LORDS REJECTS GOVERNMENT'S AI PLANS

The government has faced another setback in the House of Lords over its plan to allow AI firms to use copyrightprotected work without permission Peers backed an amendment to the data bill requiring AI companies to disclose the copyrighted material used in their models, despite government opposition This is the second time the Lords have called for transparency on the issue The vote followed a letter from artists, including Paul McCartney, Jeanette Winterson, and Dua Lipa urging the prime minister to protect their work The amendment passed 272 to 125 and will return to the House of Commons potentially sparking another Lords clash Lady Kidron rejected the government s plan stating creators don t oppose AI but refuse to have their work used for free She called the proposal an assault on the UK s £120bn creative sector The plan would let AI firms use copyrighted material without permission unless copyright holders opt out a move critics argue is impractical Opponents have used the data bill to voice their disapproval

NURSERY SPACE RULE CHANGES COULD LEAD TO OVERCROWDING, EXPERTS WARN

“most in-depth vetting procedure” of any party Nigel F a r a g e t o l d T i m e s R a d i o that internal checks used “AI techniques” as a shortcut U n l i k e R e f o r m , t h e Conservatives use a 30-person team for vetting candidates Reform had lost at l e a s t t h r e e c

l l o r s , including Donna Edmunds (suspended after planning to defect), Luke Shingler (now i n d e p e n d e n t d u e t o R A F work), and Desmond Clarke (resigned, triggering a byelection) Many of the councillors’ controversial posts

The surge in small boat crossings and reliance on hotels for accommodation have driven up asylum costs While only 35% of migrants live in hotels, they account for 75% of the asylum accommodation cost £1 3 billion of an estimated £1 7 billion in 2024-25

Currently, over 38,000 migrants are in hotels, costing the Home Office £5 5 million a day, while another 66,000 are in dispersal accommodation provided by local authorities

In 2019, the Home Office awarded a tenyear contract to Serco, Clearsprings Ready Homes, and Mears to provide asylum accomm

clause that can be triggered from next year Since taking on the responsibility, these companies have reported record profits

While profits from Home Office asylum contracts are capped at around £12 per person, rising numbers have increased demand for services Over 11,500 people have crossed the Channel in small boats this year, a 35% rise compared to last year

The government is considering changes to space requirements for nurseries in England to increase childcare places A consultation by the Department for Education explores allowing "free-flow" outdoor areas to count as part of the floor space for children aged two and above However, early years experts warn that the push for more places could compromise the quality of care A survey found that indoor space requirements are a barrier to expanding childcare Currently children under two need 3 5 sq metres of indoor space

Vivian Stern

Meghan Markle

Brothers carry South Asian pride into the ring

Two of three triplet boxing brothers from Southampton are making waves on the international stage, taking on adult opponents in Dubai and Thailand as they prepare to launch their professional careers in the UK.

Yuvraj (meaning Crown Prince in Punjabi, Gujarati and Hindi) and Vijayraj (meaning Victory in Punjabi, Gujarati and Hind) Karia, 17-year-old triplets born to a Sikh mother and Gujarati father, began boxing at an incredibly young age after receiving a set of boxing equipment from a traveller friend as a birthday gift when they turned two What started as playful sparring soon evolved into a serious pursuit of the sport

The brothers joined traveller Danny Cooper’s boxing Club at 3 years old and then Stuart Gill’s esteemed Golden Ring Boxing Club in Millbrook at the age of 10 As their skills progressed, they later began training under renowned coach Dominic Ingle and former world champions Kid Galahad and Kell Brook in

Sheffield in the Ingle Gym where Dominic Ingle and the late Brendan Ingle are both known for nurturing top-tier boxing talent such as Prince Naseem Hamed and Jonny Nelson

However, under British Boxing Board of Control rules, teenagers cannot compete professionally in the UK until they turn 18 This regulation forced the brothers to seek opportunities abroad to kickstart their professional journeys

So far, Yuvraj has fought and defeated five adult opponents from Dubai, India, Thailand, and Africa three by

"Watching them represent our wider South Asian community on international stages like Dubai and Thailand has been an incredibly moving experience...They’ ve worked tirelessly for every win, and it’s inspiring to see their dedication paying off."

knockout and two by unanimous decision Vijayraj, on the other hand, has fought and won four bouts, three going the full distance and one by knockout The goal now is for each brother to complete 10 fights by the

been educated privately all their lives

Currently, the brothers train 10 times a week in Sheffield, immersing themselves in the city’s elite boxing environment Despite the intense training schedule, they

time they turn 18 this October If they succeed in maintaining an unbeaten record, the opportunity to fight on televised events in the UK is likely set for November by that time having been professional fighters for two years since the age of 16, having joined the Ingle Gym at 15 years old after passing their GCSE exams 1 year early at 15 having

return to Southampton on weekends Vijayraj believes the city’s multicultural fabric has played a significant role in shaping their comfort and adaptability on international stages

Their father, Mayus Karia, speaking to Asian Voice, shared his deep pride in their journey, "As their father, I couldn’t be prouder of what my sons

have achieved, not just inside the ring, but in the way they carry themselves with discipline, humility and focus Watching them represent our wider South Asian community on international stages like Dubai and Thailand has been an incredibly moving experience

“Their discipline, respect, and hard work reflect the values we hold dear as a family They’ve worked tirelessly for every win, and it’s inspiring to see their dedication paying off I hope their journey encourages other young people from our communities to pursue their dreams with the same passion and commitment ”

As young British South Asian athletes, Yuvraj and Vijayraj are trailblazing in a sport where representation from their community has historically been limited Yet, their focus extends beyond victories in the ring Their dedication to conducting themselves with humility, discipline, and professionalism is as striking as their technical prowess

Vijayraj Karia

Yuvraj Karia

Labour's pledge on modern slavery under scrutiny

The Lab our gove rnmen t’s

c o m mi t m e nt t o t a c kl i n g

m o de r n s l av e ry ov er s e as ha s c om e unde r re new ed s crutiny, as concerns grow over deep c uts to the UK’s i n t e rn a ti o n al a i d b ud ge t that previous ly fun ded antis lavery initiatives abroad

C o m b a t i n g m o d e r n slavery, both at home and internationally, was a key l e g a c y o f f o r m e r P r i m e

Minister Theresa May Sir Keir Starmer’s government has pledged to strengthen

t h e U K ’ s r e s p o n s e t o

e x p l o i t a t i v e l a b o u r p r a ctices, building on the measures introduced by the previous Conservative administration

L a s t m o n t h , E n e r g y Secretary Ed Miliband reaffirmed that commitment by promising to bar the government-backed GB Energy from investing in projects

t h a t i n v o l v e s o l a r p a n e l s linked to forced labour in China

However, questions are

n o w b e i n g r a i s e d a b o u t whether the government is truly committed to address-

i n g t h e i s s u e g l o b a l l y Funding for efforts to combat modern slavery in “high

prevalence countries” is due to expire, with no replacement projects currently in place

This concern coincides with a significant reduction

increased defence expendi-

from 0 5 per cent to 0 3 per cent of GDP a cut of around 40 per cent As

Supporting Global Action to End Modern Slavery programme has ended, and the successor programme has had its budget slashed by nearly 90 per cent What remains of the funding has already been spent

Currently, there are no

active UK-funded international initiatives targeting

Envoy remains vacant fol-

departure in January

forms of modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking “The UK is committed to playing its part in

modern slavery,” she said “This includes through bilateral programmes such

which continues to provide funding until March 2026,

Restaurant owner killed in Derby bank stabbing named

A m a n w h o w as fat al ly stabbed inside a Derby city centre bank has been nam ed locally as Gurv ind er Singh Jo hal, a well-known restaurant o wner

Mr Johal, known affec-

t i o n a t e l y a s " D a n n y " , w a s visiting Lloyds Bank on St P e t e r ’ s S t r e e t o n T u e s d a y afternoon to deposit bank

h o l i d a y t a k i n g s f r o m h i s

S h e l t o n L o c k r e s t a u r a n t , Hen and Chickens Bar and Grill The 48-year-old father of three was attacked shortly before 14:30 BST and died at the scene, police said

another man in his 30s was held on suspicion of assisti n g a n o f f e n d e r B o t h remain in custody

Superintendent Rebecca

Rogue landlords packed 15 into Kenton home

Rogue landlord s illeg ally housed 15 people in a cramp ed seven-bedroom property o n Ilmingto n Road in Kenton, where young stu dents w ere forced to sleep on mattresses, with u p to three peop le sharing a room

During a visit in July last year, Brent Council’s private housing enforcement team found serious safety breaches, including missing fire doors and smoke alarms that had been deliberately covered up The property had not been licensed as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), despite multiple warnings from the council

Two brothers, Vimal and Ravi Kanji Bhudia, who lived locally, ignored repeated notices to obtain the required licence They were fined £20,000 and placed on the rogue landlord database after appearing at Willesden Magistrates’ Court, where the judge noted they had “significant time and opportunities” to comply but failed to act

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Residents Services, condemned their actions saying, “Vimal and Ravi Kanji Bhudia acted as if they were above the law and have paid a heavy price

“Every landlord in Brent is legally required to have a licence The law is there to protect tenants from unscrupulous landlords who overcrowd properties, flout fire safety regulations, and exploit renters for profit

“Every Brent resident deserves to live in a safe and secure home ”

Illegal UK resident jailed for child abuse

I N B R I E F WATER BILLS SET TO SOAR TO £2,000 BY 2050

In its submission to the government-led water inquiry, Sir Jon Cunliffe warned that without major investment, the UK could face water shortages and soaring bills The report states that around £300 billion will be needed over the next 25 years to develop new water sources improve river quality and support net zero goals Without this average household bills could exceed £1 000 by 2050 or around £2 000 when adjusted for inflation The inquiry was prompted by public anger over rising costs and pollution since the 1990s water industry privatization This year, Brits saw a £123 hike in water bills with monthly charges rising from £40 to £50 Some regions, like Southern Water, saw increases of up to 47% Ofwat warned that without proper oversight, taxpayer money could be misused Amy Fairman of River Action UK criticised the projected £2,000 bills by 2050, blaming regulatory failures and calling for a water industry overhaul and accountability for polluting companies

YOUNG PEOPLE TAKE THE WHEEL TO BOOST TRAIN SERVICES AND CREATE JOBS

H e h a d r e c e n t l y returned from a family trip to India with his wife and children, a family friend told the BBC, describing him as “ a s m i l e r ” a n d “ a g o o d friend ”

W e b s t e r s a i d t h e v i c t i m ’ s family had been informed and were receiving support “Life will never be the same again for them,” she said Lloyds Bank said it was “deeply saddened,” and local

Derbyshire Police confirmed that a man in his 40s has been arrested on suspic i o n o f m u r d e r , w h i l e

M P s C a t h e r i n e A t k i n s o n and Baggy Shanker called it a “tragic and shocking incident,” adding “Violence has no place in our community ”

The bank remains cordoned off as investigations continue

Police renew appeal after grandmother’s brutal killing

P o li c e h a ve la u n c h ed a renewed app eal fo r info r-

m at i o n f o l lo w i ng t h e i n q u es t i n to t h e " b r u ta l" killing of Leicester grandm oth er Mu mtaz Member,

a s t h e c as e r em ai n s a n u nso lved murder nearly a decade later

L e i c e s t e r s h i r e P o l i c e reiterated their belief that key information about the k i l l e r ’ s i d e n t i t y " r e m a i n s within the community" and urged anyone with knowledge to come forward

The appeal comes after an inquest concluded that 5 6 - y e a r - o l d M r s M e m

was unlawfully killed at her

found dead in her bloods

injuries Blood was splattered across the floor, walls, and ceiling, and Professor Catherine Mason, who led the inquest, confirmed she had been “brutally assaulted” with what is believed to

been recovered

Initial police investigations led to the arrests of her sons, Mohammed and

dence failed to link them to the crime

Despite years of investi-

said: “We acknowledge the outcome of HM Coroner’s inquest into Mrs Member’s death Her death remains an unsolved murder

identified those responsible for this horrific crime We still firmly believe someone

what happened

Member and her family to bring her killer to justice

Harpreet Kh asria, 3 6, has been jailed for 17 years after being convicted of repeatedly sexually assau lting a schoolgirl and recording some of the abuse on his p hone Wolverhampton Crown Court heard that between September and November 2023, Khasria preyed on a young victim drugging her with pills or chloroform before filming his attacks for his own gratification Police found “disturbing” internet searches on his devices, including queries for “ young, ” “school girl,” and “how to behosh a person medicine” (with “behosh” a Hindi term for rendering someone unconscious)

A second girl also came forward, and video evidence on Khasria’s iPhone confirmed his actions Although he has no prior UK convictions, Khasria had overstayed his visa During mitigation, his lawyer cited his poor English, the distress caused by his wife’s miscarriage in 2023, and a subsequent decline in his mental health but the judge ruled these factors did not reduce his culpability

Sentencing Khasria as a dangerous offender, Judge Michael Chambers KC imposed an extended sentence requiring him to serve at least two-thirds of a 13-year term, followed by a four-year licence period He was also handed a lifetime sexual harm prevention order and will remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely

By the end of this year, thousands of job and apprenticeship opportunities will be available for 18 to 20-year-olds, aimed at boosting the workforce and preventing rail delays and cancellations As part of the Plan for Change this initiative will offer young people the chance to become train drivers three years earlier ensuring a reliable service and providing direct paths to employment These new opportunities will foster economic growth, providing valuable skills and long-term career prospects Lowering the minimum age for train drivers addresses critical shortages, which account for 87% of cancellations, and helps counter an aging workforce 30% of drivers are set to retire by 2029 The move will bring in younger talent, ensuring a reliable workforce while promoting diversity in a profession with low female and minority ethnic representation As part of the Government’s Plan for Change it will create skilled jobs, boost the economy, and improve living standards

E-SCOOTER TRIAL EXTENDED AMID RISING DEMAND

Transport for London (TfL) has announced that e-scooter trials are now running in a third of London s boroughs with Wandsworth the latest to join The trial led by TfL and London Councils in partnership with operators Voi and Lime is currently the only legal way to ride e-scooters on public roads in the capital Unlike private escooters, which remain illegal on public roads due to lack of safety standards, trial scooters meet strict regulations, including a 12 5mph speed limit and always-on lights, exceeding national requirements Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the capital’s e-scooter trial will run until at least 25 September 2025, with the option to extend it by up to a year Since its launch in June 2021, the scheme has recorded more than five million rides, covering over 10 million kilometres TfL data shows growing demand with a 27% increase in repeat users and around 7% of journeys now replacing car trips The addition of Wandsworth expands the trial area by 35 km² and adds around 170 new parking bays bringing the total to 300 km² with 1 300 bays across participating boroughs

Theresa May Keir Starmer

Gurvinder Singh Johal

Harpreet Khasria

The opportunities for landlords as rules and regulations get stricter

By this point, all landlord s should know that stricter rules are o n their way Th e Renters’ Rig h ts

Bill is m ere month s away, and w e ’ v e all been bo m-

bar d ed w i th i nf o rm a ti o n on what will be exp ected

fro m l an d lo r d s i n th e

fu tu r e W h at m a y c at ch

so me o ff guard tho ugh, is just how likely th ey are to be hit by h igher costs

M a n y l a n d l o r d s h a v e likely done what they can to prepare But it still may not be enough, and it has rarely been easier for tenants to hold their landlords to account Take damp and mould problems, for example

Mould has come under increased scrutiny in recent

y e a r s , a n d A w a a b ’ s L a w coming into play in the private sector is set to ramp this up further Ahead of

t h i s , t h e H o u s e o f

C o m m o n s L i b r a r y h a s taken the unusual step of issuing guidance for tenants whose properties suffer damp and mould prob-

l e m s T e n a n t s a n d M P s now have an almost 1,300w o r d g u i d e d e d i c a t e d t o helping them understand the law

This doesn’t bode well for a sizable number of private landlords Over a fifth ( 2 1 % ) o f p r i v a t e r e n t e d

h o m e s i n E n g l a n d f a l l below the proposed Decent Homes Standard threshold, according to FCC Paragon

T h e r e a r e a l s o w i d e r economic issues that may

a f f l i c t i l l - p r e p a r e d l a n dlords For instance, a recent

r e p o r t f r o m W h i c h ?

w a r n e d l a n d l o r d s w h o claim for flood damage risk

b e i n g k n o c k e d b a c k b y

Jonathan Badyal joins Saxton Bampfylde as senior advisor

as appointed Jonathan Bad yal as a senio r ad visor to its arts, culture, and creative industries p ractice

The firm, renowned for nearly four decades of work with leading cultural insti-

leadership recruitment for some of the world’s most respected arts organisations

experience across the

ket opportunities As we ’ ve seen, many landlords have decided to sell up and abandon the market in recent months, rather than face t h e c h a l l e n g e s a h e a d

them This may only ramp up as the summer months approach, which could lead t

opportunities

New Gurkha artillery unit to bolster British Army

A new Gu rkha artillery regim ent h as been established to help add ress th e British Army’s ongo ing recruitment and retention challenges

The King’s Gurkha Artillery (KGA) will comprise 400 soldiers within the Brigade of Gurkhas and marks the first time Gurkha personnel, recruited from Nepal, will serve in artillery roles A third of the force will be new recruits, while the rest will transfer from other Gurkha units to form a structured rank hierarchy The unit will also be represented by a newly designed cap badge the first created for the Brigade in 14 years

Alistair Carns, the veterans minister, praised the formation of the KGA:

“The Brigade of Gurkhas has rightly earned a reputation as among the finest soldiers in the world

The creation of The King’s

Gurkha Artillery recognises their outstanding service and supports our efforts to retain skilled personnel while defending UK interests at home and abroad ” After completing initial training this November, recruits will proceed to Larkhill Garrison in Wiltshire, the base of the Royal Artillery, for specialist training Troops will be equipped with advanced systems, including the Archer and Light Gun, with future

both public and private sectors He is currently a partner at global advisory firm Trafalgar Strategy, where he

nent creatives

strong interest in international cultural engagement, Badyal is also focused on strengthening UK-India

for

Badyal spent eight years at Universal Music UK,

University of York to open campus in Mumbai

The

The announcement follows a series of high-profile events in India, culminating

Understanding (MoU) with t

a h a r a s h t r a g o v e r n

m e n t a n d C h i e f M i n i s t e r D e v e n d r a F a d n a v i s T h e p r o p o s e d c a m p u s i s n o w a w a i t i n g a p p r o v a l f r o m I n d i a ’ s U n i v e r s i t y G r a n t s C o m m i s s i o n ( U G C ) , a f t e r w h i c h d e v e l o p m e n t w i l l

move forward Professor Charlie Jeffery, V i c e - C h a n c e l l o r o f t h e University of York, who also met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said: “We are bringing our values-drive n a p p r o a c h t o e d u c a t i o n and research to India supp o r t i n g i t s a m b i t i o n s f o r g l o b a l l e a d e r s h i p , s k i l l s development and economic growth This venture reflects our commitment to public g o o d a n d t o n u r t u r i n g f u t u r e l e a d e r s a n d entrepreneurs ” The University of York Mumbai campus is expected to open in the 2026–27 aca-

demic year, Research will play a central role from the outset, supporting teaching and contributing to India’s innovation agenda in areas like food security, environmental change and future technologies C h i e f M i n i s t e r D e v e n d r a F a d

host a Russell Group univ

r s i t y i n M

b

i T h

M u m b a i c a m p u s w i l l b e staffed locally, while maintaining the academic stand a r d s a n d q u a l i t y f r a m ework of the University of York

training to include the remote-controlled Howitzer 155 artillery system

Gurkhas have served in the British Army for over 200 years, beginning with their recruitment after the Anglo-Nepalese War in 1815 Known for their bravery and discipline, they have fought in both World Wars and numerous modern conflicts Today, they remain a vital part of the UK’s military tradition and operational capability

Paresh Raja, CEO MFS

Brigade of Gurkhas

Jonathan Badyal

New era for CF India: Sir Oliver Dowden and Koolesh Shah take the helm

Reena

Prime Ministers and senior m

saw record membership growth widel

engagement with the British Indian community

some of the most anticipate d e v e n t s a t P a r t y

numerous high-profile gatherings that strengthened ties b e t w e e n

Party and British Indians

During their term has l e d i m p a c t f u l c o m m

n i t y outreach, policy forums, and c u l t u r a l e v e n t s t h a t strengthened ties between the British Indian commun i t y a n d W e s

Under their leadership, CF India championed key policy

discussions and significantly expanded its regional net-

local chapters that continue

British Indians in the democratic process

In a message to members, Ameet and Reena said:

"It has been a profound honour to serve this organi-

unique and enduring bond

Party and the British Indian community

We are proud of what we h

Chairs, we've had the privilege of working alongside some extraordinary individu

e Conservative Party and the British Indian community CF India has appointed its new Co-Chairs: T he Rt Hon S ir Oliv er Dow den MP

Minister, and business leader Ko olesh Sh ah Both bring valuable experience and are committed to building on the strong foundation set by their predecessors

In a joint statement, the new Co-Chairs said: “It is a

responsibility and build on

India plays a vital role in ensuring that the voice of the British Indian community is heard, valued, and represented in the political mainstream

SPA UK marks vibrant 45th Mahila Samelan in Birmingham

T h e S h ree P

A

m ark ed it s 4 5 th M ah i la

S am elan at th e Radha S wam i

R as i la S ats an g C e nt re i n Birmingham, uniting nearly

70 0 wom en and g irls from 14 branches and beyond T he event w as a lively celebration

o f comm unity, culture, and ‘ nar i sh a kt i, ’ w i th n o tab le

p a rti c i p ati o n f ro m g i rl s u nd er 16

The day opened with a

w a r m w e l c o m e b y S P A Coventry’s Mahila Convenor

S m t A r u n a M i s t r y a n d Secretary Smt Parul Mistry, followed by a collective Aarti

a n d t h e h e a r t f e l t p r a y e r “ S u b a h S a v e r e L e k a r T

N a a m P r a b h u

c r e a t i n g a spiritually uplifting start

The Birmingham branch

M a h i l a s s e t a w e l c o m i n g

t o n e w i t h a b e a u t i f u l l y choreographed Swagat Geet,

“ A v o M o n g h e r a M a h e m a n Kariye Antar Thi Sanman,” led by Anita M Mistry and t e a m , i n

families

S P A B i r m i n g h a m

President Sri Pravin G Mistry and SPA UK President Smt Jasu Mistry delivered heartfelt welcome speeches, praisi n g t h e d e d i c a t i o n o f a l l attendees Jasu Mistry also extended a warm invitation to SPA UK’s 50th anniversary celebration in July, encouraging continued unity and participation

T h e L e i c e s

r b r a n c h kept the momentum going with a lively group dance by B h u m i k a , N i k i t a , K i n j a l , Jenny, and Meera Prajapati

T h e d a y a l s o f e a t u r e d a s m o o t h A n n u a l G e n e r a l M e e t i n g , c o n c l u d i n g w i t h the announcement that SPA

B

Mahila Samelan next year

After a delicious lunch u n d e r t h e s u n s h i n e , t h e v e n u

lively afternoon bazaar The London branch wowed the

fashion show led by Rama

, Daksha M Mistry, Sangeeta Karia, Usha H Mistry, Aruna

K L a d , R a n j

M M i s t r y , Jashu C Mistry, Nalini Mistry and Niru P Mistry featuring

Aylesbury shines in Holi celebration

T he Ho li S pring Festiv al o f C o lo u rs , h o st ed by A yle s bu ry Hi n d u T e m

A pril with a vibrant celebration of Indian culture and comm unity

The free

Inspired by workshops and

Aylesbury schools, the exhibition will be on display in the Community Gallery until the end of May

Prizes were awarded to

elegant sarees and traditional wear Stalls offering Indian clothing, jewellery, mehendi, and more added to the festive spirit

As garba beats filled the air, women of all ages took to the dance floor, celebrating in a joyful swirl of colour and

with a raffle draw and the playing of both British and I

, leaving attendees with warm hearts and lasting memories

Welwyn Hatfield’s Mayor honoured in Commons

Councillor Pankit Shah made history in 2023 /24 as th e first British–Indian Mayor of Welw yn Hatfield Bo roug h Council, marking a pro ud mo ment for the Ind ian diaspora and a stro ng statement of the boroug h’s comm itm ent to diversity

As Mayor, he has strengthened ties with neighbouring boroughs, celebrated Welwyn Hatfield’s multiculturalism, and advocated for deeper UK-India collaboration in culture, trade, and education

Cllr Pankit Shah’s historic appointment was recently recognised in the House of Commons by Welwyn Hatfield MP Andrew Lewin and Trade Minister Douglas Alexander, who praised his contributions The acknowledgment comes as UK–India trade talks and student visa initiatives continue to strengthen ties between the two nations

A Hatfield resident since 2001 and councillor since 2015, Cllr Shah, along with his wife, remains actively engaged in local charities and community efforts to enhance residents' wellbeing Cllr Shah is a seasoned Highways and Flood Water Engineer with over 24 years of experience in designing and managing major infrastructure projects across the public and private sectors He has led awardwinning schemes in the UK and abroad and serves on the Environment Design Review Panel at Urban Design London, advising on sustainable urban development for London boroughs and Transport for London (TfL)

Upcoming events

1) The Gujarat Hindu Society will host a Health Seminar as part of its Bhajan Bhojan Day on Sunday, 18th May 2025, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM Dr Partha Ganguli will present an informative talk on liver disease and chronic kidney disease, breaking down complex topics into simple, easy-to-understand insights.

2) Experience a soulful evening of Indian classical vocals by Padma Bhushan Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty ji on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima The special Guru Vandana concert will take place on Thursday, 10 July 2025, from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale, Manchester

3) The Indian Council of Arbitration (ICA) will host the 3rd International Conference on “Arbitrating Indo-UK Commercial Disputes” on 5 June 2025 at Church House, Westminster, London The event is part of London International Disputes Week (LIDW)

L to R: Koolesh Shah Reena Ranger OBE Ameet Jogia MBE and The Rt Hon Sir Oliver Dowden MP

Samuh aarti led by the Mahila committee members at the event

Councillor Pankit Shah

‘The blood of our dearest must not have flowed in vain’

M arking the 80 th anniv er-

s ary o f V ictory in Euro pe

( V E ) D ay , K in g C h a rle s

echoed the solemn words of

h i s g ra nd f ath er, K i ng

r

G eo r g e V I , t o u rg e a

S peaking at 9pm-the

1 945-Charles said the “blood o f our dearest mu st not have flowed in vain, ” and called

o n nations to p ursue peace, ju stice and unity

Q

“Meeting jaw to jaw is better

world must rededicate itself to diplomacy and conflict

r e v e n

i o n “ W e m u s t ensure the victory for which

, founded on justice and good will,” he said

p

The King, a vocal sup-

U

d Russian aggression, empha-

s i s e d i n t e r n a t i o n a l u n i t y , recalling how the Allied triumph was achieved through

“ c o

against tyranny A

Westminster Abbey, attended by war veterans, the royal family, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and opposition

observed before Churchill’s wartime broadcast echoed

Churchill, lit the candle of peace

wartime life were placed on

them, a child’s gas mask and an air-raid warden’s helmet Letters from the front lines and home front were read aloud, capturing moments of hope and loss The con-

more: to remember the cost

peace and reconciliation

New coronation portraits unveiled

T wo n e wl y co m

e d port rait s of Kin g Cha

an d Q ue en Cam

2023, have bee n

the Nat ion al Galle

T h e p a i n

d

t t o become part of the Royal Collection, were painted by artists personally chosen by t h e K i n g a n d Q u

Majesty selected acclaimed portraitist Peter Kuhfeld to capture his likeness, while Queen Camilla chose Paul S Benney for her official portrait Both artists have long-

family and have previously contributed to royal commissions

These portraits continue

Red Lotus Events sets the stage for Rangeelu Gujarat 2025

She spoke of Rangeelu Gujarat as more than just an event it's a cultural movement that fosters pride and c o n n e c t s g e n e

Through storytelling, music, food, fashion, and identity, it provides a platform for culture to thrive

Guests

impactful events that celebrate tradition while inspiring future generations

2025, their feedback unified by one sentiment: they were inspired by the passion and wanted to be part of the movement

The successful evening sets the stage for ‘Rangeelu Gujarat 2025 ’ , a vibrant celebration happening from 5th t

Bringing community voices to the forefront

Aishwar ya Apt e r ece ntly had the humb ling opportunity t o stand as a ca ndidate in her l ocal town councill or

ex perience, she highlighted the importa nce of ste pping for

From door-knocking to sharing her vision, the experience deepened her understanding of local issues and the importance of civic engagement

Parliament Week for igniting

Cllr Sagheer Zaman named deputy mayor of Warrington

Pritee Varsani Dina Jeshani Mira Salat and Krupesh Hirani

King Charles III during his speech

Community leaders at the campaign

Honouring mothers, embracing wisdom

Mother’s Day is celebrated in Canada, America, and many parts of the world on the second Sunday of May every year This year, it will be on Sunday, May 11th

The origin of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where mother goddesses were worshipped during springtime festivals However, the modern version of Mother’s Day, as we know it today, began in the United States in the early 20th century, thanks to the efforts of Anna Jarvis She wanted a day to honour the sacrifices mothers made for their children The idea quickly gained traction and spread to neighbouring Canada The Canadian government officially recognised the day in 1914 Since then, it has been celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm across Canada

A mother’s unconditional love, sacrifices, and strength in facing life’s challenges cannot be measured in monetary terms It is truly priceless and must be appreciated Before we pray to God, we must honour our mothers and parents, as they are equal to God Spending quality time with them and valuing their presence brings blessings that will enrich not just our lives but also those of our children and grandchildren

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, both with us and those who are no longer in this world

Mother’s Day celebration should not be limited to just one day, but should be 24/7, 365 days a year

Buddh Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak, is a significant Buddhist festival commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddharth Gautama, also known as the Buddha It’s a day of reflection, prayer, and observance of Buddha’s teachings Siddharth Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, was born in 623 BC in Lumbini, Nepal

Buddha’s teachings, known as Dhamma, focus on achieving enlightenment and ending suffering through understanding the Four Noble Truths and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path Key aspects include karma, mindfulness, ethical conduct, and meditation The teachings also emphasise virtues such as wisdom, kindness, patience, generosity, and compassion

Su resh and Bhavna Patel

Sending a child to state school now costs £2,300

Fam ilies

demand fo r materials and tech P

least £1,000 a year for primary and nearly £2,300 for secondary education up

Poverty Action Group and the Centre for Research in Social Policy

Rising school costs are making it harder for children to thrive, with family finances increasingly acting as a barrier to education, the report warned E

, school trips, music lessons, or clubs weren’t included in the figures Schools are also a

items like iPads and pay for materials for creative subjects

Parents spend at least £

school uniforms and nearly

lunches, snacks, and trips adding hundreds more CPAG’s Kate Anstey said

cover basic needs while also paying for school essentials,

She urged the government’s

expand free school meals, and offer uniform support

Without scrapping the twochild universal credit limit, she warned, more children will see their potential held back by poverty

Dozens of Labour MPs oppose benefit cuts

Prime Mini ster K eir Starmer faces a major rebellio n as over 80 Labour MPs sign a private letter raising concerns about planned disability benefit cuts

Many are worried about the scale and speed of the reforms, and that the full impact won’t be revealed before next month’s vote The letter will be sent to the chief whip early next week

K A P I L’S K H I C H A D I The Real Operation Sindoor

The Pakistani terrorist state sponsored an attack on innocent Indians in Kashmir on 22nd April Their aim was to murder innocent Hindus only These Islamists confirmed to the world that their act of barbarity was based on their faith and was designed to search out Hindus by any means and kill them in front of their loved ones That my friends is the real face of Pakistani cross-border terrorism

Outrage followed of course and India made it clear that it reserved its right of self-defence, as well as seeking justice for those who had been killed

India waited a long time before it launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ The success of operation sindoor might not be so clear for everyone Primarily because much of its success is unseen and was designed to be unseen However, as with all such military operations there are successes we can note immediately

Nine terror camps destroyed – the ones Pakistan stated did not exist!Deep strikes were made into Pakistan's mainland India hit targets as far as 165km inside Pakistan

A new paradigm against terror: India has made it clear; any cross-border terrorism will automatically be considered an act of war This puts every part of Pakistan on standby since India now reserves the right to hit the whole of Pakistan

India exposed Pakistan s fragile air defence: Pakistan has been lying to those who listen to their garbage that they have air superiority However, India has shown that it can go inside Pakistan at will, hit targets at will, and there is nothing Pakistan can do Massive damage to Pakistan's military establishmentwith11 bases being attacked including N u r K h a n , R

, Chunian, Sargodha, Skaru, Bholari and Jacobabad

By putting the Indus Water Treaty into abeyance, India now controls its own water in any way it sees fit The benevolence India had shown to Pakistan for decades has gone in one pen stroke And Pakistan is already on its knees

First off, this letter is dedicated to all the working classes like farmers, teachers, journalists and all those people slogging through the various tough tasks like farming, heavy driving

Workers are the real assets to the world Without workers, the world cannot inch its way even a bit My professional experience in Mumbai is just one good example to prove this Back in my native places like Tuticorin, Korkai, T i r u c h e n d u r , T i r u n e l v e l i , N a g e r c o i l , M a r t h a n d a m , Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, people have been toiling away in the open areas like agricultural fields, salt pans, seas, roads

Away from the hustle and bustle and standing undist u r b e d b y c o n c r e t e j u n g l e , m y p l a c e s l i k e K o r k a i , Tiruchendur, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli are the hubs of natural resources, rivers, seas and tall and beautiful trees

Recently on a professional trip, I went to Chennai and Bangalore where I got emotionally inspired by the people working hard in open areas Our hands are doing everything from learning to earning Our hands are beautiful and powerful I often look at my hands, admiring them and feeling happy

Countries and the world leaders should work together towards achieving coherent solutions to all the problems facing the working community across the globe

Finally, great knowledge of the intelligentsia and tireless hard work of the workers have all been crucial in keeping the world on the right track

To those tireless hands Maharana Pratap Jayanthi

P S enthil Saravana Durai

I trust in Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi honours Maharana Pratap's legacy of boldness, courage, and valour His unwavering dedication to protecting his land and people inspires us all Let us strive to embody his spirit in our endeavours and stand united against challenges "Veer Maharana Pratap ki kahani, sabko de sahas ki nishani!"

TS Karthik

Dear Readers,

We receive a wide range of letters from our readers each week, and we truly value every voice We warmly encourage more of you to share your thoughts, reflections and opinions with us, in your own unique way

Every reader has a right to express their views and we would love to hear yours. Please send your letters to: aveditorial@abplgroup.com

Let your voice be heard!

Warm regards, Team Asian Voice

Forty-two MPs have signed a separate public statement calling the disability benefit reforms “impossible to support” and warning they would cause “ more hardship ” The MPs urged a delay until at least autumn, comparing the proposals to George Osborne’s austerity measures The changes would make it harder to claim personal independence payments

Rehabilitative Chelsea

Garden to be installed in women’s prison

A ga rde n cr eat ed for t he Chelse a Flower Show will be r eloca ted to HMP Down view to support t he re habilita tion of fe male offen der s

Designed by Jo Thompson, who collaborated with female ex-offenders through the Glasshouse, a horticultural rehabilitation charity, the garden aims to provide a safe, private green space for women often deprived of nature

The garden, set to be unveiled at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show on May 19, will be relocated to HMP Downview, a women-only prison in Surrey, after the show Designed by Jo Thompson and funded by Project Giving Back, the £1 million garden focuses on privacy and beauty

Thompson revamped her initial design after meeting the women involved in the project, recognising their need for a peaceful, private space to connect with nature and garden

The design took two years to complete, and female offenders are expected to access the garden starting in July

The Glasshouse, a social enterprise that helped Thompson with the project, trains women to grow houseplants, which are sold online and maintained in corporate offices

NHS approves daily

Endometriosis pill for women

A pill for endometriosis, cal led l in zagolix an d b randed as Yselt y, ha s bee n a pprove d for use on the NHS in En gland The on ce-daily t abl et could hel p up t o 1,000 women an nuall y Endometriosis, where cells similar to the womb lining grow outside it, affects around 1 5 million women in the UK It causes pain, heavy periods, exhaustion, and fertility issues, but diagnosis often takes nine years Linzagolix, a once-daily pill, blocks hormones that drive these symptoms Following t h e M

(Ryeqo) as the first long-term daily pill, NICE has now endorsed linzagolix Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, called it a convenient treatment option that helps manage the condition and eases pressure on NHS services Linzagolix is a once-daily 200mg tablet, taken a

menopause-like symptoms In clinical trials, it was shown to significantly reduce painful periods and non-menstrual pelvic pain compared to a placebo

Pakistan then made a huge error by rescinding on the Shimla Agreement It forgot that the only reason for that agreement was to protect Pakistan and its illegitimate invasion of Indian territory Pakistan has in effect gifted India the full right to cross the Line of Control at will since it’s no longer in play

Operation Sindoor was so successful that Pakistan had to run to the IMF with a begging bowl to get a loan just to survive as a nation In the last 24 hours before the ceasefire, India had given Pakistan such a thumping that it ran to the USA begging for intervention India had managed to hit at the very core of Pakistan’s nuclear capability This woke the USA up overnight with palpitations since their pet project of Pakistan was getting yet another thumping by India

The real success of Operation Sindoor will become evident in the weeks and months ahead Again, whilst I am desperate to share some key observations, I am minded that I should refrain for the time being for operational reasons

However, I can share a few thoughts and maybe the astute will decipher the code to read the full extent of success of Operation Sindoor

India sent a message to the world that it will decide what it does, when it does it and how it will do it India will decide when the nation is attacked, and India alone will decide who will pay for any atrocity against it India does not need any concurrence from the UN, the USA, the EU or any other nation This for India is now a massive step in assuming its rightful role on the global stage

India showed not just to Pakistan, but also to the world that its indigenousmissilesare as good, if not better than manyhigh-poweredmissiles from other nations A message to China also!

It has given a massive impetus to the Baloch and Sindh freedom fighters They now believe their freedom is not so far away It’s not if, butwhen they become free from Pakistani occupation

The ceasefire in my view is just a simple pause India is allowing President Trump to dig a hole intrusting Pakistan We all know the nature of Pakistan and its dictatorship, it lies, and it breaks promises It won’t be long beforePakistan breaks its word to Trump At that point the US will have no where to hide its shamed face of trusting a terrorist state like Pakistan And we know what Trump does when he is made to look like a fool India has got Trump where it wants him, on a short lease which is governed by the madness of Pakistan Just sit back and enjoy the show

By hitting Pakistan’s nuclear facilities, India has sent a message that it will not be intimated by threats of nukes In fact, the threat of nukes worries the Americans more than it does India!

The world needs to understand the deeper meaning of what PM Modi is saying when he stated, “Terror and talks can’t happen together Terror and trade can’t happen together Water and Blood can’t flow together ”

The real operation Sindoor has yet to start

Kapil Dudakia

Fragrance that feels like home

Subhasini Naicker

S h ar o n S o nd h h a s launched ‘ The Candlewala’, a u ni qu e c and le br and insp ired by the rich scents and cherished m em ories of I nd i a n c h i ld h o o d s Ea c h

ca nd le c aptu res no stalg i c

m o m e nts b ri ng i n g th e warm th of h ome into every space With a strong sense of purp ose at its core, The C a nd l ew a la als o d o n ate s 50p from every order to a c ere br al p als y c h a ri ty, b len d i ng fra g ra nc e w i t h heart and social impact

S p e a k i n g t o A s i a n Voice, Sharon shared that she named The Candlewala after her brother Hari, who has cerebral palsy “Hari, who’s now 37, went to a

s p e c i a l n e e d s s c h o o l i n Scotland and later earned a BSc in IT, graduating at 30 due to the challenges posed by his disability,” she said “ D e s p i t e a c t i v e l y s e e k i n g work for over five years, he never received a job offer I realised we couldn’t keep waiting for the right opportunity, I wanted to create something where he could f e e l p u r p o s e f u l a n d v a lued ” With a background in

m a r k e t i n g , S h a r o n c o mbined her skills with a mission to give Hari meaningful work The Candlewala was born offering candles inspired by nostalgic Indian

s c e n t s l i k e N i m b u P a n i ,

P i s t a c h i o K u l f i , M a s a l a Chai, and Rose Falooda

O t h e r s c e n t s d r a w f r o m

m e m o r i e s , s u c h a s

“Morning Dua” and “Nani’s Hugs ” Hari manages packing and dispatching: printing postage, carefully boxing the candles, and taking them to the post office “It might take him longer, but w h a t m a t t e r s i s t h a t h e wakes up with purpose and plays an important role in t h e b u s i n e s s , ” S h a r o n added

Sharon’s inspiration for ‘ T h e C a n d l e w a l a ’ c o m e s from the nostalgic scents of her childhood “My mom

would always light a candle

m

the smell She tried everyt

This sparked her idea to create candles that capture those comforting aromas H e r G a r a m C

ries of masala tea brewing at home

Another favourite, Nimbu Pani, offers fresh, u

scent is carefully crafted to

essence of home into any space

O n t h e c o m m u n i t y ’ s response, Sharon said, “The South Asian community in the UK is growing, and people really want a reminder of home, that’s what I aim to provide Since launching, the response has been i n c r e d i b l e , w e s o l d o u t within days As a purposed r i v e n b r a n d , w e a l s o d o n a t e 5 0 p f r o m e v e r y o r d e r t o t h e c h a r i t y C e

The candles don’t just smell nostalgic, they look beautiful in any modern home ” E m p h a s i s i n g o n t h e South Asian brands getting enough visibility in the UK lifestyle and wellness space, Sharon said, “I truly believe in the power of collaboration My focus now is on

who can help shift the narrative around wellness, particularly within Indian and S

s I think it's crucial for us to

come together and amplify this message Only by coll a b o r a t i n g c a n w e t r

y

make an impact If all our

n become a formidable force In the UK, there's been a longstanding appreciation for Indian culture, especially through the beloved tradition of enjoying a curry on a Friday night which has been around for over 50 years It’s not just Indians w

o e n j o y

u

a l s o many British people who hold Indian culture in high regard When I look at the customers buying my can-

g demand from British people too The vibrancy, the colours, and the essence of our products resonate with a broader audience than we might realise Our market is far more expansive than we often give credit for ”

create a brand, Sharon said, “

failure Reflecting on m own journey, I’ve come

embrace that fear and push forward anyway Failure, in

because it offers redirec tion It gives us the infor

Indian-origin scientist among first to study China’s far-side Moon samples

A UK - bas ed Ind ian -o ri gi n scientis t, Professor Mahesh Anand, h as become th e only res earcher in the co untry to receive a sample

llec ted by Ch

s Chang’ e-6 missio n, according to th e BBC

from the Moon’s far side

great honour and a huge privilege ” Professor Anand’s team

plans to analyse the lunar dust using lasers to uncover clues about the Moon’s for-

the theory that the Moon formed from debris after a massive collision between E

planet 4

billion years ago China previously collected l

2020 Chang’e-5 mission on Mons Rumker China’s Chang’e-6 mission returned 1 9kg of lunar

side in June 2024, using

Inner Mongolia The

ples, now shared with inter-

unique traits more porous texture and higher plagioclase but lower olivine levels

The inclusion of a UK-based Indian-origin scientist highlights both China’s commit-

collaboration and the inter-

understand the Moon

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol statue unveiling in London delayed amid India-Pakistan tensions

T he unveiling of a planned

Londo n ’ s Lei cester Squ are h as b een p ostp oned ami d escalating tensio ns between India and P aki stan

The statue, commemorating the iconic duo from ‘ D i l w a l e D u l h a n i a L e Jayenge’ (DDLJ), was set to mark the 30th anniversary of the beloved film widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and celebrated classics

again, but smarter and with

h Asian women, we need to be braver We deserve a sea at the table, and our voice must be heard My ques tion is, if not now, the when? That's what I alway

The statue is set to join Leicester Square’s “Scenes in the Square” trail, which

r s such as Harry Potter, Gene K e l l y , M a r y P o p p i n s , a n d Batman

Originally scheduled to be unveiled on May 7 at a special ceremony attended by Shah Rukh Khan himself, t h e e v e n t w a s p o s t p o n e d following a statement from ‘ D i l w a l e D u l h a n i a L e Jayenge’ producers Yash Raj Films They announced the decision was made “out of

respect for the current situation” overseas

The Penni nes, which once i nspi red the Brontë sis ters, are now being protected as o n e o f E n g l an d

nature

announced by the govern-

access to green space for Bradford one of the UK’s m

cities

The Brontë family lived in nearby Haworth, and the moorland scenery inspired n o v e l s

rare wildlife such as adders, curlew, and golden plover, with 90% of the area made up of priority habitats like peat bogs, heathlands, and wetlands

Tony Juniper, chair of N

areas to reverse ecological decline He called the new reserve a key step in protecting and enhancing the e

rating with local partners, the project aims to connect communities with nature,

inspiring future biodiversi-

business, if not now, when? I

make bold moves, and just get started ”

ty support The government

council to raise awareness and organise visits to the reserve in Bradford C

Shaw highlighted that twothirds of Bradford is rural, with stunning scenery now

w Bradford Pennine Gateway reserve The reserve ensures these areas are accessible to all Meanwhile, the government has faced criticism for proposed legislation allowing developers to build on green spaces without nearby alternatives, which could see new parks and nature

same county

Although Khan fondly known as SRK skipped the L o n d o n e v e n t , h e m a d e waves earlier in the week with his debut at the Met Gala in New York It was a landmark moment, marking the first appearance by a leading Bollywood actor at t h e p r e s t i g i o u s e v e n t D r e s s e d i n a n a l l - b l a c k Sabyasachi outfit, SRK completed his look with bold neck accessories, including a striking “K” pendant Brontë country to be preserved as a major nature reserve

Sharon Sondh

Sharon with her brother Hari

Ketan Dattani

Leicester changemaker leads global ocean mission

Subhasini Naicker

British-A sian entrep reneur C hris

Desai fro m Leicester, fou nd er of the o cean cons ervati on chari ty UOCE AN 2050, has been ho noured with a place on the Global 40 Under 4 0 A wards in C lim ate & Sustainability in Dubai T hrou gh

U OC E A N 20 5 0 , a n o n- p ro f i t und er th e Vayyu Foundatio n, h e has gro wn a p erso nal passion into a global effort, setting up clean-

u p h u bs i n o v er 3 0 l o ca ti o ns around the wo rld, includ ing th e UK, Kenya, and Ind onesia

S p e a k i n g t o A s i a n V o i c e , Chris said the global recognition “ means the world not just to me, but to the volunteers and the c o m m u n i t y w h o b r o u g h t t h i s movement together This award isn’t just mine; it’s for everyone who’s been a part of it ” H e a d d e d , “ B e h i n d m e a r e thousands of people We’re grateful for the recognition because it

s t r e n g t h e n s o u r m e s s a g e a n d highlights what UOCEAN stands for When we started this movem e n t a s a n e t h n i c a l l y d i v e r s e , ocean conservation group based in Leicester, the furthest city from the sea; people questioned us But 80% of ocean plastic starts on land, so why not tackle it in our rivers, canals, and inner cities?”

Chris explained that engaging u n d e r r e p r e s e n t e d c o m m u n i t i e s w a s c e n t r a l t o t h e i r m i s s i o n

“Conservation has often excluded us not because we don’t care,

b u t b e c a u s e w e ’ v e n e v e r b e e n invited in We've faced pushback both from mainstream organisations and from within our own communities Some see it as a lower-class issue But we remind people of our deep-rooted tradi-

t i o n s o f s u s t a i n a b l e l i v i n g i n p l a c e s l i k e A f r i c a a n d I n d i a Conservation ‘is’ for us we just

need to make it accessible and culturally inclusive ” I n s p i r i n g y o u n g p e o p l e t o take ownership of environmental action, Chris said, “I’ve always s a i d t h i s , r i g h t c o n s e r v a t i o n should be the most selfish thing you do People always say, ‘I’m doing it for the planet ’ Listen, do it for yourself first If you ’ re not doing it for yourself, then what’s the point? Humans are great at doing things for themselves, so let’s start there If you ’ re polluting t h e o c e a n s o r d e f o r e s t i n g t h e p l a n e t , t h e r e w i l l b e c o n s equences You won’t be able to live or thrive So, look after the planet not just for the younger generation They need to protect it for t h e m s e l v e s b u t b e c a u s e w e a l l need to protect it for ourselves too ” He added, “That’s why we ’ re working with young people going into schools, community centres, t e m p l e s , G u r d w

, m o s q u e s , synagogues, and churches We’re there to inspire and say, ‘Let’s all take collective responsibility ’ My ultimate dream is that organisations like UOCEAN won’t need to e x i s t b e c a u s e e v e r y o n e w i l l b e taking care of the environment on their own But the reason we do exist is because there’s a massive disconnect between humans and nature Young people haven’t had their minds shaped too much yet they’re not totally consumed by ideas of money, status, and self-

interest They’re full of energy, i n n o v a t i o n , i d e a s , a n d h o p e They’re still malleable, and they see sense Young people see logic, where adults seem to be blindfolded by capitalism ” S p e a

between climate change, environm e n t a l d e g r a d a

increasing frequency of natural disasters, Chris said, “When we look at ecosystems, it’s like a jigsaw puzzle or a game of Jenga

, everything else becomes unstable That’s why, as an organisation, we don’t just talk about ocean plastics, we talk about biodiversity, ocean health, and how it all connects Most people don’t realise that plastic pollution affects the ocean ’ s ability to produce oxygen I

o breaths we take comes from the ocean, not from trees So just

n

n g marine life or regulating global temperatures depends on healthy oceans

He added, “Around 70–80% of the excess heat generated by human activity is absorbed by the ocean It plays a crucial role in c o o l i n g t h e p l

d i s t h e world’s largest carbon sink But instead of recognising this, we ’ ve developed what I call ‘carbon tunnel vision’ focusing only on net zero targets That won’t work if ocean biodiversity collapses This is where life began, and it’s still where life is sustained So we urge people to look at the bigger picture Net zero goals are important, but so are coral reefs, mang r o v e s , b i o d i v e r s i t y , a n d c l e a n oceans As ecosystems continue to break down, we’ll keep seeing more extreme climate events and natural disasters; it's all connected ”

England faces growing drought threat amid driest spring in decades

E ngland is brac ing for a po tential s ummer dro ught after enduring its d rie st s t art t o s p r ing s in ce 1 95 6, s parking co nc ern o ver reservoir level s, crop p roduction, and water supp ly

The Environment Agency has i s s u e d a “ m e d i u m ” d r o u g h t r i s k warning, urging water companies to cut leaks and promote water-saving h a b i t s A l t h o u g h

tions could be introduced if rainfall remains scarce

In response, the government’s national drought group has conv e n e d t o c o o r d i n a t e a c t i o n Ministers, regulators, water firms, and stakeholders are focusing on

improved leak detection and public awareness around water conservation March and April brought stark rainfall deficits just 43% and 56% of e

y England received only a quarter of its average rainfall in March, while April was the sunniest on record Reservoirs are now at 84% capacity, c

Levels are critically low in the northeast and northwest, where rainfall has been the lowest since 1929 River flows are below normal in n o r t h e r n a n

Farmers have already begun irrigating early, placing additional strain o n s t o

chalk aquifers remain in good shape, wildfire risks have increased in dry areas like Cumbria, Derbyshire, and Dorset

plans, supporting farmers with irrigation planning, and preparing public advice on water-saving steps

Rachel Hallos, vice president of

warned that the erratic weather ranging from 2022 ’ s droughts to last year ’ s floods threatens food security She urged policies that support on-farm water storage, irrig ation

UK to host major climate summit

T he Met Office and th e University

o f Exeter w ill jointly host a m ajo

clim ate foru m bring ing together scientists, policym akers, and business lead ers to confront escalating climate risks and chart paths fo r u rgent action

D e s p i t e m o u n t i n g s c

i c evidence of the growing threats climate change poses to lives, ecosys-

remains precarious In the lead-up

to COP30 in Brazil, the Exeter Climate Forum aims to amplify the voices of scientists whose work deepens our understanding of the Earth’s rapidly shifting systems

Running from June 30 to July 4, the forum will feature a series of key events, including the Exeter Climate Conference, the second Global Tipping Points Conference, a gathering of international universities, and dedicated sessions f

So uth Asian wedd ing s h av e always been about more th an ju st two people coming together They are v ibrant, pow erful celebrations of love, family, and heritage

From the haldi and mehndi to the sangeet and baraat, these rituals are beautiful threads weaving generations together Each event, each tradition, holds a deep sense of respect for our roots and a joyful celebration of who we are

But, as with many things in our modern world, tradition has collided with consumption

Inspired by Bollywood glamour and celebrity culture, weddings have grown bigger, flashier, and, without realising it, heavier on the planet

Let’s take a closer look at where culture meets carbon

Take bridal wear, for instance Outfits are breathtaking handembroidered silks, rich brocades, shimmering embellishments They make brides feel absolutely extraordinary, as they should But behind the scenes, these materials are resource-intensive Silk production uses vast amounts of water and thousands of silkworms; synthetic dyes pollute rivers and streams Often, after a single wear, these stunning garments are packed away, their environmental footprint lingering far longer than the wedding festivities

Flowers, another cornerstone of our celebrations, tell a similar story

Fresh blooms decorate mandaps, tables, and entrances, creating a paradise of colour and scent But the demand for exotic, out-of-season flowers means air-freight miles, refrigerated storage, and ultimately, a heavy carbon toll Many end up discarded, polluting waterways and landfills

And of course, food In our culture, offering abundance is a sacred duty Feeding guests is a form of love Yet, lavish spreads often result in mountains of wasted food, with much of it sadly heading straight to landfill, along with the water, energy, and love it took to prepare

But here is the good news It doesn't have to be this way

Our ancestors had it right Weddings were intimate and community-focused Clothes were lovingly borrowed or repurposed Flowers were seasonal and local Food was cooked at home, shared, and never wasted

Today, many couples are honouring that spirit while embracing a future-minded approach

Rep urpo sing and Renting Outfits:

Many are choosing to wear family heirlooms like a mother’s wedding sari or a grandfather’s sherwani, updated with a modern twist Rental platforms and vintage boutiques are also making it easier to be stylish and sustainable

Eco-Friendly Decor:

Reusable decor is making a beautiful comeback Flowing fabric drapes, brass lamps, clay pots, and local flowers that are later composted or made into incense and dyes are becoming popular choices

Su stainable Fo od C hoices:

Vegetarian and vegan menus are on the rise, not just for health and ethics but to lighten the carbon load Thoughtfully curated menus mean less waste Some families are donating surplus food to local charities, beautifully reviving the age-old value of daan, giving back

At their heart, South Asian weddings are about love, unity, and gratitude

Choosing to celebrate consciously does not mean losing our traditions It means living them more deeply, guided by values like seva (selfless service), shukrana (gratitude), and daan (charitable giving)

In doing so, today’s couples are not just getting married They are planting seeds for a future where love, community, and respect for the earth go hand in hand

And honestly, what better blessing could there be for a new life together?

Supermarkets fall short on climate goals

Betw een 2014 and 2024, the UK’s 10 largest su permarket chains m ad e over 60 0 clim at e a nd s u st ai na bi li ty pledg es

However, a new report by Feedback Global, supported b y T h e F o o d F o u n d a t i o

ment and industry

“Exeter is a global centre for climate research, with internation-

both the University of Exeter and the Met Office,” said Professor Lisa R

Chancellor of the University of E

Forum offers a unique opportunity to bring this expertise together, share the latest science, and drive

t o yield measurable results The report shows that while supermark e t s h a v e m a d e p l e d g e s a t a n impressive rate one nearly every six days most lack clear, measurable targets or transparent reporting Nine out of ten retailers have set targets for Scope 3 emissions (those from supply chains, which make up about 90% of total greenh

four Aldi, Waitrose, Co-op, and M o r r i s o n

i d e s p e c i f i c updates on their progress in the UK For Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which cover direct operations and e n e r g y c o n s u m p t i o n , a l l m a j o r retailers have set goals, thanks to t h e m a n d

(SECR) framework This highlights the contrast between the effectiven

and voluntary corporate commitments in reducing emissions

The report also points out a significant gap in supermarkets' efforts to promote healthy, sustainable diets Of 49 pledges in this area, fewer than half have measurable targets Additionally, just four r

based sales targets, which are considered the best practice for tracking food sales shifts

The report calls for mandatory

Climate Conscious Weddings: Honouring Tradition, Shaping the Future

Chris Desai

Anusha Singh

The rise of online grooming in the UK

In the UK , th e internet h as shifted from being a plat-

fo rm o f c onnec tio n to a space of escalating d anger; especially for w omen and child ren Once praised fo r its d emo crati c reach, the dig ital world has becom e a

h u b f o r exp

m in g h as reached the level of a d igital p andemic

A 2023 study by The O

Among women aged 16–24, that figure climbs to 25%, and to 35% among LGB+ w o m e n A

r

13% of these incidents escalated to offline violence

This crisis is even more

p r o n o u n c e d a m o n g women from minority ethnic communities, including South Asian women, who are often targeted with cult u r a l l y s p e c i f i c f o r m s o f abuse Research has shown

t h a t w o m e n f r o m t h e s e backgrounds are twice as likely to believe that the risks of being online outweigh the benefits

According to the 2021 Census, South Asians make up nearly 9% of the UK

p o p u l a t i o n , w i t h B r i t i s h

I n d i a n s , P a k i s t a n i s , a n d

Bangladeshis forming the l a r g e s t e t h n i c m i n o r i t y group South Asian women and girls often face a double burden of racism and misogyny online, including Islamophobic abuse, castebased slurs, and shaming rooted in cultural taboos around modesty, relationships, and honour

Even more disturbing is the rise of “ com networks” online gangs of teenage boys who target girls for blackmail, sexual coercion,

a n d s e l f - h a r m T h e

N a t i o n a l C r i m e A g e n c y ( N C A ) r e p o r t s a s i x f o l d increase in these networks from 2022 to 2024, often involving children as young as 13 In 2024, the Internet W a t c h F o u n d a t i o n c o nf i r m e d s e x t o r t i o n c a s e s involving girls aged just 11–13

These gangs thrive in a toxic online culture, fuelled by extremist content and m i s o g y n i s t i c i n f l u e n c e r s South Asian girls, who may a l r e a d y f a c e c u l t u r a l restrictions on digital freedom, are often less likely to report abuse due to fears of stigma, family backlash, or community shame

Online d ating and sexual vio lence

The risk extends into adulthood Between 2009 and 2014, the UK saw a 450% increase in rape cases

l i n k e d t o o n l i n e d a t i n g , j u m p i n g f r o m 3 3 t o 1 8 4 incidents The true num-

bers are believed to be far h i g h e r , e s p e c i a l l y a m o n g women from communities where talking about relationships or sexual violence is taboo

In 2024, the Revenge P o r n H e l p l i n e r e c o r d e d 22,275 reports of intimate image abuse the highest ever Women are 28 times more likely than men to have their explicit images s h a r e d o n l i n e O f t h e s e , nearly a quarter involved sextortion

Y e t , l a w e n f o r c e m e n t continues to fall short Of 457 recorded cases involvi n g s u c h a b u s e , 3 6 3 involved negative interact i o n s w i t h p o l i c e , w i t h women bearing the brunt South Asian victims often find it especially hard to come forward due to language barriers, mistrust of institutions, and a fear of dishonour within tightlyknit communities

M ad d i e W akt are , External A ffairs M anager, Victim Su pport in a statement to Asian Voice, had the following to say on the m a t t e r : “ S a d l y , v i o l e n c e and abuse towards women and girls is widespread in society and, nowadays, a l a r g e p r o p o r t i o n o f t h i s h a p p e n s o n l i n e I t c a n i n c l u d e o n l i n e s t a l k i n g , h a r a s s m e n t a n d i n t i m a t e i m a g e a b u s e , a s w e l l a s domestic abusers increasingly making use of techn o l o g y a n d o n l i n e p l a tforms

“These types of online abuse can have a very real and damaging impact It’s vital they are taken seriously and not dismissed as less harmful than other forms of gender based violence If you have been the victim of online abuse, you are not to blame and free, confident i a l s u p p o r t i s a v a i l a b l e , regardless of whether you have reported to police or not ”

C o m m e n t i n g o n t h e matter, a NPCC sp okesperson also said, "The scale of online sexual abuse against both women and children is frightening and continuing to rise

“Social media platforms p r o v i d e o f f e n d e r s w i t h m o r e o p p o r t u n i t y a n d access to sexually exploit victims, which is why technology companies must do more to make their platforms safe for everyone and particularly children

“Policing continues to

S

Building trust and safety in South Asian speed dating

m any

South Asians navigating cultural exp ectations and safety c o nc er ns , t h es e s p ac es can be fraught with anxiety Amit Sodha known affectionately as The Love

D o c t o r i s a s e a s o n e d

Holistic Love Coach who’s been guiding singles for over three decades With 17 years specialising in dating and relationship coaching, he’s a l s o t h e f o u n d e r o f

work proactively to pursue o f f e n d e r s , i n c l u

undercover units, who disrupt child abusers online every day We will also continue to work closely with t

industry to harness technology which will help us to fight online sexual abuse and exploitation

“We would urge anyone who has been a victim of online sexual abuse to report it to police – you will

you

Despite existing legislation and stated platform commitments, the reality is that online spaces remain fundamentally unsafe for

Grooming is no longer confined to isolated dark web forums; it is happening in

stream platforms, in chat apps, and even on dating sites

Ofcom’s p ush fo r safer platform s

In response, Ofcom has

Act, aiming to hold tech platforms accountable and design safety into their systems from the outset

The guidance emphasises the intersectionality of harm particularly affecti n g w o m e n

c o l o u r , including South Asians It urges companies to integrate inclusive risk assessm

with diverse datasets, and consider culturally specific abuse in their safety frameworks

Children, a key focus f

from new rules protecting

misogynistic hate speech

required

To ensure transparency, Ofcom will publish

after guidance is finalised, highlighting how companies are responding, or failing, to protect women and girls

C o m p a n i e s t h

l l short could face fines of up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover The message is clear: safety is no longer optional

C o n n e c t A s i a n , a p l a t f o r m that brings together South Asian singles through innovative, activity-led events What sets Sodha apart is h

his events “I don’t run speed dating the traditional way, ” Sodha says “We start with icebreakers to help people r

d down That’s when red flags, if any, become easier to spot both for participants and for me ” Amit also uses a customd e s i g n e d p a c k o f S p a r k Conversation Cards, which help daters ask deeper questions beyond surface-level s m a l l t a l k “ I t ’ s n o t j u s t about what someone does for a living,” he adds “It’s about values, personalities, and intentions ” For first-timers: What yo u should kno w His advice to new attendees? “Know your organiser Can you meet them? Talk to t h e m ? A t m y e v e n t s , I ’ m

front of house People know they can approach me or my team with anything I don’t tolerate misbehaviour, and I want everyone to feel safe ”

H e a l s o e n c o u r a g e s attendees to reach out ahead of time if they have concerns “Even a two-minute chat beforehand can go a long way in easing nerves, ” he says With a strong communit y p r e s e n c e , i n c l u d i n g W h a t s A p p g r o u p s a n d F a c e b o o k c o m m u n i

v e s c o

c e r n s a b o u t i n d i v i d u a l s ’ behaviour and he takes each r e p o r t s e r i o u s l y “ P e o p l e t r u s t m e w i t h s e n s i t i v e information I ask for some form of proof, like screenshots, and if there’s enough evidence, I act immediately

r e m o v e t h e i n d i v i d u a l and ask questions later ” T o p r e v e n t r e p e a t offences, Sodha has a private s y s t e m f o r t r a c k i n g t h o s e with a history of predatory or inappropriate behaviour

A message fo r th e So uth Asian com munity

Sodha is acutely aware o f t h e c u l t u r a l h e s i t a t i o n m a n y S o u

around dating and speaking up Women, in particular, o f t e n r e m a i n s i l e n

t e r negative experiences “Sadly, I’ve seen women isolate themselves after one bad experience even if they spotted red flags,” he says “We need to make it okay to speak up It’s not shameful to prioritise your safety ” H i

tain clear boundaries, like: If someone brings up money, t

y “ T o o many get caught up in emotional attachment and give money hoping to hold on to someone It never works,” he says

He’s also adamant that safety is for everyone, not just women “I’m 6’3 and can handle myself, but even I took precautions while dating Share your live location on WhatsApp with a trusted friend Schedule a check-in call We all have the tools

e them ” For Amit, safety isn’t an afterthought; it’s embedded

where conversations about dating and abuse are often s

i n g t o change the narrative one honest, heart-centred interaction at a time “At the end of the day,” he says, “it’s about helping p e o p l e f i n d l o v e w i t h o u t fear ”

Longer sentence for paedophile who 'passed around' a child

In February, Y usuf Kayat, 54, was sentenced to 20 years in p ri s o n a ft er be in g f o u nd guilty at Leeds Crown Co urt o f a h o rr if yi n g 1 7 -c o u nt charge Kayat (also known as 'K osh') targ eted the young girl between 1989 and 1 992, exploiting her in cars and ab and o ned h o u s es i n Dewsbury and M irfield, the court was inform ed In order to groom the v i c t i m , t h e p r e d a t o r f i r s t drove her around in his car, showered her with gifts, and g a v e h e r d r u g s i n c l u d i n g b e e r , c i g a r e t t e s , a n d c a n n a b i s E v e n t u a l l y , h i s m i s d e e d s p r o g r e s s e d t o

Facebook’s

T he he a d o f B

include forcing the child to have sex with his friends often with multiple men in return for carryout meals

The victim, who is now an adult, described in her impact statement the deep a n d t e r r i b l e e f f

c t s o f Kayat's acts, including the ongoing fear, anxiety, panic attacks, and flashbacks she experienced

T h e C o u r t o f A p p e a l increased Kayat's sentence when the Solicitor General intervened to address what w a s c o n s i d e r e d a n e x c e ssively light original punishm e n t A c c o r d i n g t o Y o r k s h i r e L i v e , h i s i n i t i a l s

Yusuf Kayat

k e d o n May 7 and replaced with a longer 24-year term under t h e U n d u l y L e n i e n t Sentence program

decline in abuse reports endangers children

i n ’ s N a t i on a l C r i m e A g en c y ( N C A ) ha s w a r n e d th a t children are n ow less s afe on Fa c eb o ok fo ll ow i ng a sharp decline in reports of child sex ual abuse m aterial from the platform

According to the NCA, Facebook reported 6 9 mill i o n f e w e r i n c i d e n t s o f child sexual abuse in 2024 compared to the previous year, a drop from 18 million reports in 2023 to 11 1 mill i o n A l e x M u r r a y , t h e NCA’s Director of Threat

Leadership, attributed the decline to the growing use of end-to-end encryption, which he said was being introduced “without sufficient consideration for the actual harm it will cause ” “ T h e w i d e s p r e a d r o l lout of end-to-end encryption by major tech companies is putting users in danger,” Murray told The Telegraph A Facebook spokesperson defended the company ’ s record, stating that it had streamlined its reporting processes, which contributed to the lower figu r e s T h e p l a t f o r m a l s o claimed that it continues to report more abuse content t h a n a n y o f i t s i n d u s t r y peers However, the sharp fall has raised concerns among child safety advocates and law enforcement that abuse is going undetected, particu l a r l y a s e n c r y p t i o n c a n p r e v e n t t e c h c o m p a n i e s f r o m s e e i n g o r f l a g g i n g harmful content shared on their platforms

LET’S TALK, SEEK HELP

A call for dementia awareness in South Asian communities

Anusha Singh

As Alzh eimer's S ociety's Dementia

Ac t io n W ee k a p p ro a c h es ( M ay 19th-2 5th) , th e fo cus is on early di agnosi s enco uraging individuals wi th dementi a concerns to seek professional help and begin meani ng fu l co nv er s at io ns wi th t h e ir GPs

In the lead-up to this crucial week, Asian Voice had the privilege of speaking to Kamel Hothi OBE, an Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador, and one of the most influential voices within the South Asian community when it comes

“She would frequently refuse simple tasks, such as changing her clothes or doing basic exercises Meanwhile, I had to manage the criticism People who visited while I was at work would call me, questioning why she was still in a stained nightdress But they didn’t see the reality behind those moments The truth is, we can be a caring community but we can also be incredibly judgmental ”

S h e e m p h a s i s e d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f

Staying active in

midlife may help prevent Alzheimer’s

Alz heimer ’ s dis ease , a ccording to a new s tudy by the B a r c e l on a I n s t it ut e f or Global Heal th

t o r a i s i n g a w a r e n e s s a b o u t d e m e n t i a Kamel, who knows firsthand the devastating effects of dementia has pledged to help break down the stigma surrounding the disease in her community, a task that has become deeply personal

Kamel shared her experiences, insights, and the need for more open dialogue within the community

Th e imp act o f dementia o n Kamel's family

Kamel's journey with dementia began i n a n u n e x p e c t e d w a y W

h Alzheimer’s Society as a corporate partner, Kamel’s own family was dealing with the diagnosis of her uncle Initially, Kamel’s family kept the struggles private, not fully understanding the nature of her uncle’s condition

Kamel recalls, “When my uncle had a heart attack and he was a very fit man, this was the beginning of his dementia journey His confusion started with small things c o m p l a i n i n g h e h a d n ’ t b e e n f e d , e v e n though he had meals We didn’t know it was dementia at the time It caused a lot of tension, and no one knew how to handle it ”

Her uncle’s situation worsened rapidly, leading to a distressing incident where he wandered away from the hospital and was found by a neighbour Sadly, his condition deteriorated quickly, and he died soon after That experience, although painful, w a s K a m e l ' s f i r s t r e a l i n t r o d u c t i o n t o dementia

Now, years later, dementia has affected multiple members of Kamel’s extended family, who are at different stages of the disease She describes the variety of symptoms: “I have loved ones who now are living with dementia Two of them are very placid they don’t recognise me but are able to have simple conversations and enjoy some basic daily life routines The other has become more aggressive and suspicious The difference in how the disease manifests shows just how complex it is ” Th e role of carers in th e S outh Asian community

Kamel strongly believes that supporting caregivers is a key aspect of raising a w a r e n e s s C a r e r s , e s p e c i a l l y t h o s e i n South Asian families, often face challenges that can be overlooked As dementia takes its toll on individuals, it can be the daughters, daughters-in-law, and other women in the family who often bear the brunt of care responsibilities These women often find themselves isolated, underappreciated, and burdened with societal judgments

“Caregiving is not just about providing physical support,” says Kamel “It’s deeply e m o t i o n a l I n o u r c o m m u n i t y , t h e r e ’ s often a lot of scrutiny My mother-in-law, who lived with me for over 38 years and was a key matriarch in our family, became housebound due to several complicated

h e a l t h c o n d i t i o n s A s h e r m o b i l i t y declined, she grew increasingly frustrated Not being able to do the things she once loved like cooking or socialising often led to stubbornness and aggression, which she sometimes directed at me or our carers

starting conversations early “When you notice signs like forgetfulness, repetition, or suspicion; it’s crucial to talk about it, even though it can be difficult It’s important to help loved ones understand what’s happening, and to encourage early diagnosis ”

She suggests, “If we notice something in a friend’s family, we can gently ask, ‘I’ve noticed something, and I just want to know if you ’ ve seen the same things?’ Then offer to help in any way you can whether it’s going to the doctor or just providing a listening ear

“It’s about showing empathy and offering support in a way that doesn’t overstep boundaries ”

It is clear that the caring duties tend to fall on the shoulders of women who also are juggling the family home, work and children For Kamel, this is where the community must step up and support caregivers who are often overwhelmed by their responsibilities

Early diagnosis, she says, is a crucial step in managing the disease and providing the support needed by and to caregivers and creating road maps on how to collectively support those living with dementia

Breaking th e silence o n dementia

A core challenge Kamel addresses is the c u l t u r a l s t i g m a s u r r o u n d i n g d e m e n t i a within the South Asian community In many households, there is a deep-rooted cultural tendency to maintain privacy especially regarding mental health or cognitive decline “In our culture, we are taught to protect the ‘honour’ of the family, and that often means keeping issues like d e m e n t i a h i d d e n , ” s h e e x p l a i n

dementia isn’t a shameful thing It’s a medical condition that needs our understanding and support ”

She calls for a change in how the community views mental health and dementia “We need more open dialogue We need to

o understand that caring for a family member with dementia should not be seen as a burden or something to hide We need to embrace these conversations and educate ourselves ”

O

n g awareness is through community platforms that people already engage with, like sports or cultural events “Why not use cricket, which is a religion for many of us, to talk about dementia? Why not use weddings or religious gatherings, like at temples or gurdwaras, to share information and raise awareness?” As the conversation surrounding dementia becomes more visible in the South Asian community, Kamel hopes to see even more representation and resources tailored to their needs As we e

message is clear: break the silence, seek help early, and offer support to both those affected and their caregivers

If you ’ re worried about yourself, or someone close to you, then check your s

Researchers followed 337 adults aged 45 to 65, all with a family history of Alzheimer’s, over four years Participants completed lifestyle questionnaires and underwent brain scans Those who met the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended activity levels, 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigoro u s a c t i v i t y p e

w

e k , showed less accumulation of b

a m y l o i d , a p r o t e i n linked to Alzheimer’s They a l s o h a d h e a l t h i e r b r a i n structure in regions related to memory

Sedentary individuals, in c o n t r a s t , d i s p l a y e d g r e a t e r

reduced cortical thickness both markers associated with

was the most common activity among the group, said Müge Akinci, the study’s lead author, who advised incorporating movement into daily r

instead of driving

Importantly, those who began exercising after being

Arenaza-Urquijo, the study’s senior author

Published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the study reinforces evidence linking phys-

decline

Hearing loss linked to a third of dementia cases in older adults

Hearing loss may be resp onsible for nearly one-third o f d e m en ti a c as es i n o ld e r adults, accord ing to a new s tu d y s ug g es ti ng a fa r greater im pact than previously believed

Researchers at Columbia

U n i v e r s i t y a n a l y s e d d a t a from 2,946 adults with an average age of 75, of whom 1,947 had some degree of hearing loss Between 2011 and 2019, they tracked participants to determine how many new dementia cases could be attributed to hearing difficulties Their findi n g s , p u b l i s h e d i n J A M A Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, revealed that 32% of dementia cases were linked to clinically significant hearing loss

T h i s f i g u r e i s n o t a b l y h i g h e r t h a n e a r l i e r e s t imates, which ranged from 2% to 19% The researchers e m p h a s i s e d t h a t h e a r i n g

The study suggests that addressing hearing loss may be one of the most effective w a y s t o r e d u c e d e m e n t i a risk later in life, potentially o f f e r i n g g r e a t e r b e n e f i t s than modifying midlife risk factors like obesity or inact i v i t y H e a r i n g a i d s a n d

c o c h l e a r i m p l a n t s c o u l d t h u s s e r v e a s v i t a

l o s s s h o u l d b e d i a g n o s e d t h r o u g h p r o p e r t e s t i n g r a t h e r t h a n s e l f - r e p o r t i n g f o r m o r e a c c u r a t e a s s e s sments

for

Experts urge early treatment and improved access to affordable hearing care as a preventative measure

Brain memories may offer hope for Alzheimer’s and dementia

Breakthrou gh research from the University of California, San Diego, is shedd ing lig

could prove crucial in tackling Alzheimer’s disease and other form s of d em entia

U s i n g c u t t i n g - e d g e imaging techniques, including two-photon microscopy, n e u r o b i o l o g i s t s W i l l i a m " J a k e " W

i g h t , N a t h

H e d r i c k , a n d T a k a k i K o m i y a m a h a v e m a p p e d h o w s y n a p s e s t h e j u n ctions where neurons comm u n i c a t e c h a n g e d u r i n g l e a r n i n g T h e i r f i n d i n g s , r e c e n t l y p u b l i s h e d i n Science, reveal that synaptic plasticity is far more com-

p l e x t h a n p r e v i o u s l y believed

R a t h e r t h a n f o l l o w i n g one universal rule, neurons use multiple mechanisms to strengthen or weaken specific connections depending on their location and function This discovery offers a m o r e a c c u r a t e p i c t u r e o f h o w n e w i n f o r m a t i o n s u c h a s n a m e s , t a s k s , o r directions is encoded and stored

F o r c o n d i t i o n s l i k e Alzheimer’s, where synaptic dysfunction is a hallmark, this research offers critical i n s i g h t B y u n d e r s t a n d i n g how and why synapses fail to adapt or degrade in diseased brains, scientists may be able to develop more targeted therapies to preserve memory and cognitive function The findings also shed light on the “credit assignment problem” how local c h a n g e s i n i n d i v i d u a l s y n a p s e s c o n t r i b u t e t o l a r g e - s c a l e l e a r n i n g T h i s puzzle is key to understanding how dementia disrupts communication across the brain

S u p p o r t e d b y t h e N a t i o n a l I n s t i t u t e s o f Health, the research could also inspire more brain-like artificial intelligence, helpi n g s i m u l a t e h e a l t h y a n d impaired neural processes in a more nuanced way

Kamel Hothi

Starmer vows to fix broken immigration system

As Labour steps into this long-contested policy area, the question remains: Will Starmer’s blueprint deliver lasting change, or is it the latest in a series of political reassurances that struggle to match the realities on the ground?

Over the past 15 years, suc-

c

o n s have set ambitious targets

C o n s e r v a t i v e p l e d g e i n 2010 to reduce net migration to the "tens of thou-

s a n d s " Y e t t h e n u m b e r s have remained persistently

h

O

Statistics (ONS), net migra-

c

d 906,000 in the year ending June 2023, and although it f e l l t o 7 2 8 , 0 0 0 b y J u n e 2024, it remains well above historical norms

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) projects a further decline to around 315,000 by the end of the current Parliament still higher than most years over the last decade

R a v i sh a a n Ra h e l

M u t h i a h , D i r e ct o r o f

C om mu ni c a ti o ns f or t h e

J o i nt Co u nci l f o r t h e

W e lf a r e o f I m mi g ra nt s

s a i d , “ T h i s g o v e r n m e n t

c l a i m s i t w a n t s t o ‘ t a k e back control’- but what it’s really doing is taking away compassion By scrapping care worker visas and doubling the wait for settlement, they are punishing the very people who care for our sick and elderly

“These aren’t policies of control, they’re acts of cruelty- driven not by public need, but by political calcu-

l a t i o n M i g r a n t s d i d n ’ t break the NHS, or cause

t h e h o u s i n g c r i s i s T h e y hold this country together To scapegoat them is not only dishonest - it’s dangerous We need leadership

t h a t b u i l d s b r i d g e s , n o t headlines that divide us ” Will th e pla n to back the e mploy me nt of Briti sh nati onals w ork?

W h i l e K e i r S t a r m e r backs his immigration plan with data, it is important to ask: will his proposals actually work in practice? The P r i m e M i n i s t e r w a n t s employers to focus their t i m e a n d r e s o u r c e s o n upskilling British nationals a reasonable ambition

H o w e v e r , i t i s m i g r a n t s who have long formed the backbone of the NHS and the social care sector

T h e v a s t m a j o r i t y o f migrants come to the UK

f o r s t u d y o r w o r k A n d m a n y o f t h e w o r k v i s a s have been for people coming to do jobs in health and social care

When stricter visa rules

w e r e p r e v i o u s l y i n t r od u c e d , t h e n u m b e r o f migrant workers declined, a n d b o t h t h e c a r e a n d h o u s i n g s e c t o r s o p e n l y

w a r n e d t h a t t h e y w o u l d struggle without the support of immigrant labour

The NHS, already under severe strain, has seen its

services deteriorate Many

r s a

r e c o n s i d e r i n g t h e i r d e c ision to make the UK their h o m e , p a r t i c u l a r l y a s i t becomes increasingly difficult for their dependents to settle in the country

T h e q u e s t i o n i s : i f B r i t i s h w o r k e r s c o u l d a l r e a d y f i l l t h e s e c r i t i c a l r o l e s a n d r e s c u e t h e s e struggling services, wouldn ’ t t h a t s o l u t i o n h a v e materialised by now?

The simple answer is t h a t m a i n b a r r i e r t o recruitment in social care has been the level of pay, which is currently too low to attract sufficient numb e r s o f B r i t i s h w o r k e r s They will not be as easy to exploit

The GMB Union has

a l r e a d y a p p r o a c h e d t h e

D e p a r t m e n t f o r H e a l t h

a n d S o c i a l C a r e t o p u t a c r o s s t h i s p o i n t W i l l

D a l t o n, GM B Na t i on a l O f f i c e r , s a i d , “ S c r a p p i n g

t h i s v i s a w i l l b e d e e p l y

d a m a g i n g – p o t e n t i a l l y catastrophic for our belea-

g u e r e d c a r e s y s t e m T h e w h o l e s e c t o r i s u t t e r l y reliant on migrant workers – yet we still have more t h a n 1 3 0 , 0 0 0 v a c a n c i e s across the country

“Care work is difficult, often dangerous yet very badly paid

“GMB is working with t h e G o v e r n m e n t o n F a i r P a y A g r e e m e

y needed to give these highly s k i l l e d p r o f e s s i o n a l s t h e wage rise they deserve

“But there is absolutely no chance these will in in place in time to fill the void these new visa restrictions will create ”

On the other hand, a sp o k e sp e r s o n f o r Ca r e Qu a l i t y Co mm i s si o n (CQ C)

nd

social care in Engla nd , said, " W e a c k n o w l e d g e a n d value the work that care workers from abroad bring to our social care work-

c o ncerned about the fragility of the adult social care sector given the cumulative impact of recent changes

W o r k f o

n the most significant area of concern across the sector

W

focussed on the continuity

social care We are in dis-

c u s s i o n w i t h D H S C t o u n d e r s t a n d t h e w i d e r

Key highlights of the Immigration White Paper

l A significant reduction in net migration to "sustainable levels" is a central goal of the policy

l Care worker visas have been scrapped, with employers urged to prioritise the hiring and training of British workers over reliance on migrant labour

l Stricter requirements for salary thresholds and qualifications have been introduced for certain job categories

l The qualifying period for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) has been doubled from five to ten years, making it harder for migrants to gain permanent residency

l The government proposes to shorten the poststudy work visa for international students from 2–3 years to just 18 months

l Increased scrutiny is planned on how universities recruit international students

l A potential levy on international students is under consideration to offset the perceived strain on public services.

l The white paper acknowledges the NHS and social care sector’s dependence on migrant workers, but frames reform as necessary for longterm sustainability.

i m p l i c a t i o n s o f t h e s e changes and future solut i o n s f o r m a n a g i n g t h e h e a l t h a n d s o c i a l c a r e workforce and the vacancy rate ” A ri sk to unive rsi ties’ fu ture

International students have also been a significant contributor to net migration figures, but they are equally vital to the financial health of UK universities A sharp reduction in overseas student numbers could have serious consequences for higher education institutions, many of w h i c h a r e a l r e a d y f a c i n g financial strain

T h e g o v e r n m e n t h a s proposed stricter monitori n g o f h o w u n i v e r s i t i e s recruit international students and wants to shorten the period graduates can remain in the UK to find work; reducing it from 2–3 years to just 18 months

Universities UK, repres e n t i n g 1 4 1 i n s t i t u t i o n s , has urged the government to “think carefully” about the implications of these Alternatively, the Na tional I n d i a n S t u d e nt s a n d

A lumni Union UK (NISA U) h a s w e l c o m e d t h e Government’s decision to retain the Graduate Route but also firmly put forward t h a t I n t e r n a t i o n a l s t udents, who fund their own education, power innovation in universities, sustain local economies, and build e n d u r i n g b i l a t e r a l t i e s between the UK and count r i e s a r o u n d t h e w o r l d , should be celebrated

“ T h e y s h o u l d n o t b e treated through the same policy lens as other forms o f m i g r a t i o n D o i n g s o risks undermining one of t h e U K ’ s m o s t g l o b a l l y admired assets: its higher education sector”, NISAU said in a statement

T h e o r g a n i s a t i o n h a s strongly demanded international students must be taken out of the net migration targets for purposes of robust policymaking

Rosali nd Gi ll, Head of Poli cy a t Nati ona l Centre f o r U ni v e r si t i e s a n d Busi ness (NCUB) also comm e n t e d , s t a t i n g , “ f u r t h e r

r e s t r i c t i o n s o n G r a d u a t e Visas, and a new internat i o n a l s t u d e n t l e v y , w i l l jeopardise the sustainability and global connectivity o f U K u n i v e r s i t i e s International students are significant contributors to the UK, fuelling research, i n n o v a t i o n , a

EducationScape backs SaferSpace app amid rising harassment cases

EducationScape, the media and ev ents gro up behind FE Week and Schools Week, is supporting the d ev elopm ent of th e w orkplace v ersion of the SaferS pace app , a confid

emp lo yers ad

ress h arassmen t, d i scri m inatio n, and misconduct

T

increased scrutiny of workplace culture in the UK and c

which requires employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, or face tribunal claims, legal penalties, and reputational damage

SaferSpace, developed in 2024 by Ruth Sparkes and S

received further investment

a p e , which has refined the platform for use across sectors like healthcare, retail, hospit a l i t y , c o n

t r u c t i o n , a n d professional services

S h a n e M a n n , C E O o f EducationScape, said, “HR teams often deal with complex cases across fragmented systems SaferSpace consolidates everything incident r e p o r t s , c o m p l i a n c e d a s hb o

system that ensures transparency and consistency ” The app allows employ-

ees to submit anonymous or named reports via a mobile

routed to HR or safeguarding leads through a secure s y

, and custom workflows An AI-driven chatbot, trained on the UK's Equality Act, h

their experience warrants

through the process

High-profile cases, like H

claims and increasing NHS harassment, have highlight-

Apprentices, often unaware of their rights or how to report misconduct, also face gaps in safeguarding support

employers

progress, helping HR professionals monitor culture, ensure compliance, and take timely action

S u

founder of SaferSpace, said:

P

e n t because they feel nothing w i l l c h a n g e S a f e r S p a c e shows them that it can The system supports employees while providing employers with a fair and reliable way to respond ”

Arson attack suspect arrested following fires at Starmer’s properties

A 21-year-old man has been arr es ted o n s us p i c io n o f arson with intent to endanger life after two p rop erties linked to Sir Keir S tarmer were d am ag ed in Lo nd on The Metropolitan Police

s a i d t h e s u s p e c t , a r r e s t e d early Tuesday, remains in custody Emergency services responded to fires at two h o m e s i n n o r t h L o n d o n w i t h i n 2 4 h o u r s o n e o n Monday at 1:30am and the other on Sunday

Police are investigating whether the fires are linked, with counterterrorism officers leading the inquiry due to the properties' connection to a high-profile public figure Scotland Yard is also e x a m i n i n g a v e h i c l e f i r e from May 8 A police cordon was set up outside a Kentish Town property, previously owned by the prime minister, where Sir Keir Starmer is believed to still own it The property is now rented by a family member of the PM

A Met Police spokesperson confirmed that count e r t e r r o r i s m o f f i c e r s a r e l e

due to the property’s past connection with a high-profile figure All three fires are being treated as suspicious T

emergency services but said no further comments could be made due to the ongoing

were reported I

Sunday, firefighters tackled a small fire at the front door of a house converted into flats in Islington, also linked to Sir Keir One person was helped to safety via an internal staircase by crews wear-

Rosalind Gill Ravishaan Rahel Muthiah

Keir Starmer

He added, “We are engaging urgently with both countries, as well as other international p a r t n e r s , e n c o u r a g i n g d i alogue, de-escalation, and the protection of civilians "

U K S h a d o w F o r e i g n Secretary Priti Patel delivered

a s h a r p s t a t e m e n t i n t h e House of Commons debate

o n ‘ I n d i a - P a k i s t a n : Escalation’ following India’s

O p e r a t i o n S i n d o o r U K

F o r e i g n O f f i c e M i n i s t e r

Hamish Falconer stressed the importance of de-escalation,

e s p e c i a l l y w i t h t h e l a r g e number of British nationals in the region "The safety of British nationals will always be our priority," he said

P a

p r e v i o u s q u e s t i o n s t o t h e government after the April 22

P a h a l g a m t e r r o r i s t a

a c k s , reminded Parliament of the brutal killing of 26 tourists in a savage act of violence

She said: “This is a precarious moment We want tensions to ease between India and Pakistan and avoid esca-

l a t i o n A t t h e s a m e t i m e , India has the right to defend itself and dismantle terrorist infrastructure ”

S h e a d d e d , “ T e r r o r i s t s based in Pakistan threaten

b o t h I n d i a a n d W e s t e r n i n t e r e s t s , a n d t h e U K h a s long-standing security agreements with India ” She questioned whether the UK government has been in contact with India’s intelligence services regarding the Kashmir attack and if specific security assistance has been provided She also raised concerns about the links between

t h e R e s i s t a n c e F r o n t a n d

P a k i s t a n - b a s e d L a

Hamas “The UK has a role to play in easing tensions,” she e m p h a s i s e d , a s k i n g , “ W h a t discussions have taken place between India and Pakistan, and does the UK have a plan to support de-escalation?”

T h e F r i e n d s o f I n d i a S o c i e t y I n t e r n a

( F I S I ) UK praised India’s “firm and u n c

, w h i l e

Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-

killing over 100 terrorists

The strikes escalated tens i o n s , p u s h i n g

Pakistan to the brink of war w

May 10 at Pakistan’s request As global powers watch c l o s e l y , I n d

Sindoor not only signals a new chapter in its national security policy but has also reignited urgent calls for a lasting, peaceful resolution to c r o s s - b o r d e

regional instability

P M Mo di calls ou t Pakistan’s terror h ubs in stro ng add ress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first televised address since India's launch of cruise missiles at terror

attending terrorist funerals, clear evidence of state-spons

that India would take strong action to protect its citizens, highlighting that Operation

India’s strength in both conventional and new-age warfare

that terrorists never anticipated such a bold response, but when the nation is united under the principle of "nation first," decisive actions lead to impactful results He noted that India's missile and drone

also weakened their morale

and Muridke as long-standing hubs of global terrorism, connected to major attacks

London tube bombings, and countless incidents in India

Modi praised the effectiven

defense systems He declared, “Zero tolerance against terrorism is the guarantee of a better and safer world,” and warned Pakistan that unless it dismantles its terror networks, its survival is at risk M

can be no talks or trade with Pakistan until terrorism ends, and that future dialogue will f o c u s s o

Occupied Kashmir (PoK)

During his visit to the Air F

Modi addressed and interacted with air warriors and soldiers, praising their courage

scored the power of the chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, calling it n

solemn oath taken by every soldier to defend the nation’s honour Modi said this powerful phrase echoes from battlefields to critical missions, s e n d i n g a c h i l l d o w n t h e

Sindoor as a strategic shift and a strong policy against t

r r o r i s m H

s i s e d , "Operation Sindoor is ongoing and will continue as a decisive action against statesponsored terror attacks on Indian citizens " Modi reinforced the mess a g e f r o m s e n i o r m i l i t a r y leaders, declaring, "This is the new normal India will strike

INSIGHT UK emphasised a united message of “humanity against terrorism ”

L o r d R a m i R a n g e r , Chairman of the British Sikh A s s o c i a t i o n , a d d e d : “ T h e r e a r e n o w i n n e r s i n w a r Innocent lives suffer unnecessarily I welcome this step and hope good sense prevails s o b o t h s i d e s a g r e e , n e v e r again ”

On May 7, India launched ‘ O p e r a t i o n S i n d o o r ’ , p r e c ision strikes on terror camps i n P a k i s t a n a n d P a k i s t

occupied Kashmir (PoK) The

decisively at the heart of ter-

that "nuclear blackmail" will not deter India The Prime M

that India will respond with force if state-sponsored ter-

Bahawalpur and Muridke as universities of terror Modi condemned the link between Pakistan’s government and terrorism, stating, "We will not separate terrorists from their government

He declared that India’s

Operation Sindoor had shattered Pakistan’s terror infrastructure and exposed its vulnerabilities He said Pakistan,

retaliated recklessly by tar-

India’s advanced air defense neutralized its missiles and drones mid-air In contrast, Indian drones and missiles hit Pakistan’s core, severely damaging key airbases and

days, Pakistan began seeking de-escalation and contacted India’s DGMO on May 10, assuring it would halt terror and military aggression In response, India temporarily

tions but continues to monitor the situation closely

Operation Sindoor marks

, built on three pillars: decisive retaliation, zero tolerance for n

distinction between terrorists and their state sponsors He condemned Pakistan’s open support for terrorists, noting its military’s presence at their funerals, and reaffirmed that India will act decisively to protect its citizens

Highlighting India’s military strength across all terrains and in modern warfare,

“NOT AN TERRO

hours, India has the power to light up the skies, breaking the threat of nuclear blackm a i l T h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r lauded the armed forces for filling the hearts of Indians with pride and remarked that their bravery will inspire generations

Saluting the courage of the Army, Navy, Air Force, a n d B S F , h e d e c l a r e d t h a t Operation Sindoor has made a historic impact, with the entire nation standing united b e h i n d i t s s o l d i e r s M o d i expressed deep gratitude to the armed forces and their families, acknowledging their sacrifices and heroism

enemy ’ s spine when chanted by Indian soldiers

Highlighting India’s military strength, he noted that the nation’s drone and missile strikes reflect its resolve, a n d e v e n i n t h e d a r k e s t

Operation Sindoor show-

Pakistan’s weak air defence

airspace by launching hundreds of drones and artillery a

International Border, targeting areas in Jammu & Kashmir (

Int ern at ion al lea der s welcome d cease fire International leaders have w e l c o m e d

c e a s e f i r e between India and Pakistan, c a l l i n g i t a c r u c i a l s t e p towards regional stability and peace

An understanding to end cross-border fighting, touted by US President Trump as U S - m

i b e d by India as a bilateral outcome of DGMO-level talks initiated by Pakistan, quickly faced setbacks India accused Pakistan of repeated ceasefire v i o l a t i o n s , p r o m p t i n g s w i f t retaliation by Indian forces

F o r e i g n S e c r e t a r y V i k r a m Misri urged Pakistan to act responsibly and address the violations, stating that Indian forces remain on high alert w i t h c l e a r i n s t r u c t i o n s t o respond firmly to any further breaches along the LoC and International Border Taking X, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (May 10) that India and Pakistan have agreed to a “full and immediate ceasefire” following a night of US-mediated talks “After a long night o f t a l k s m e d i a t e d b y t h e United States, I am pleased to

Heavy damage inf

ing for over 80% of its major w e a p o n i m p o r t s P a k i s t a n procured a range of systems tanks, fighter jets, drones, and a i r d e f e n c e f r o m B e i j i n g , including HQ-9/P and HQ9BE long-range surface-to-air missiles, deployed to defend key cities and installations

I n d i a a l s o p e n e t r a t e d P a k i

inside enemy territory The strikes followed a series of attempted attacks by Pakistan on Indian military and civilian locations

A m o n g t h e m a j o r P a k i s t a n i b a s e s

Rafiqui (Shorkot), Murid, Nur

, Jammu), Punjab (Pathankot, A

i t s a r , L u d h i a n a ,

B a t h i n d a , C h a n d i g a r h ) , Rajasthan, and Gujarat I n d i a a l s o s l a m m e d Pakistan for endangering civil a i r t r a f f i c b y k e e p i n g i t s airspace open during the May 7 drone and missile attacks Wing Commander Vyomika

S i n g h p r e s e n t e d

F l i g h t r a d a r 2 4 d a t a s h o w i n g civil flights near the border, w h i l e I n d i a h a d c l o s e d i t s skies to protect civilian aircraft

Between 2014 and 2024, China became Pakistan’s primary arms supplier, account-

d air defence systems and protected its own airspace with a strong, layered defence

During the conflict, the IMF approved a $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan raising total funding to $2 1 bill i o n a n

e d a n a d d

tional $1 4 billion under its Resilience and Sustainability Facility India abstained from the vote, citing concerns over terrorism financing India is believed to have used the BrahMos supersonic c r u i s e m i s s i l e f o r t h e f i r s t time in combat during coord i n a t e d p r e c i s i o n a i r s t r i k e s on May 10, targeting eight key Pakistani military sites deep

Sukkur, and Chunian, along with radar sites at Pasrur and Sialkot, and strategic airbases at Skardu, Bholari, Jacobabad,

causing significant damage

The Indian Air Force likel y

munitions, and the BrahMos missile, launched from Rafale jets While official confirmation of

In a press briefing on May 11, Lieutenant General

Defence minister Rajnath Singh chairing a high level meeting to review the security situation along the western border and operational preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces at South Bloc

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefing the media on ‘Operation Sindoor , in New Delhi on May 10, 2025

extended and sustained ”

He noted close coord

n w i t h

a n n o u n c e t h a t I n d i a a n d Pakistan have agreed to a full a n d i m m e d i a t e c e a s e f i r e ” , T r u m p p o s t e d o n T r u t h

Social He congratulated both nations for “using Common Sense and Great Intelligence ”

U S S e c r e t a r y o f S t a t e

M a r c o R u b i o h i g h l i g h t e d Washington’s intensive diplo-

m a t i c e n g a g e m e n t i n t h e lead-up to the breakthrough “Over the past 48 hours, @VP

V a n c e a n d I h a v e e n g a g e d

w i t h s e n i o r I n d i a n a n d Pakistani officials, including P r i m e M i n i s t e r s N a r e n d r a

M o d i a n d S h e h b a z S h a r i f ,

E x t e r n a l A f f a i r s M i n i s t e r

S u b r a h m a n y a m J a i s h a n k a r ,

C h i e f o f A r m y S t a f f A s i m Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik,” Rubio wrote on X U N S e c r e t a r y - G e n e r a l Antonio Guterres welcomed the development, urging both

n a t i o n s t o b u i l d o n t h i s p r o g r e s s “ W e w e l c o m e a l l

efforts to de-escalate the conflict,” Guterres said, unders c o r i n g t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f sustained dialogue to maintain peace U K F o r e i g n S e c r e t a r y David Lammy expressed deep c o n c e r n o v e r t h e r e c e n t I n d i a - P a k i s t a n t e n s i o n s , acknowledging the impact on

B r i t i s h - I n d i a n a n d B r i t i s hPakistani communities “The i m a g e s f r o m I n d i a a n d P a k i s t a n h a v e b e e n d e e p l y worrying,” he said after chairing a COBR emergency meeting Lammy emphasised that the UK’s top priority is “ sustaining the ceasefire,” adding, “ F u r t h e r c o n f l i c t i s i n nobody’s interest ” Over the weekend, he held calls with I n d i a ’ s E x t e r n a l A f f a i r s M i n i s t e r S J a i s h a n k a r a n d

P a k i s t a n ’ s D e p u t y P M a n d Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar “My message to both was the same, ensure the ceasefire is

licted on Pakistan

high-value targets like Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudasir Ahmed, who were involved in the IC-814 hijacking and the Pulwama attack

A i r M

Operation Sindoor had succ

camps and met its objectives

w

strike designated targets, not tally casualties "Our job is to hit the target, not to count the body bags," he said Following Pakistan’s escalation with a swarm of drones and missiles, India retaliated with precision strikes causing

s i g n i f i c a n

d

m a g e T h e Indian Air Force targeted key

P a k i s t a n i m

i t a r y a s s

s including air bases, command c e n t r e s , i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , a n d air defence systems across the Western Front in a coordinated operation

n

s including the US, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the EU “We stand ready to work with both sides to make lasting peace a reality,” he s a i d , u r g i n g B r

nationals in the region to follow official travel guidance

EU Foreign Chief Kaja Kallas emphasised the significance of the ceasefire and the need for vigilance to ensure it holds “The

toward de-escalation All efforts must be made to

Kallas posted on X after speaking with Indian and P

EU remains committed to

counter-terrorism in the region

ceasefire between India and Pakistan and voiced strong support for a peaceful resolution through dialogue “I sinc

Minister Narendra Modi and P r i m

Rahim Yar Khan airbase in Punjab suffered heavy damage, with its only runway rendered non-operational for a week

W i n g C o m m a n d e r V y o m i k a S i n g h , i n a p o s tceasefire briefing, confirmed e x t e n s i v e d a m a g e t o k e y Pakistani airbases, including Skardu, Sargodha, Jacobabad, and Bhulari She stated that the destruction of air defence systems and radar installations had rendered Pakistan’s airspace virtually undefendable Precision strikes across the LoC also crippled military i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , c o m m a n d centres, and logistics hubs, leading to a collapse in both defensive and offensive capabilities

Air Marshal A K Bharti added that Indian forces shot d o w n s e v e r a l a d v a n c e d

“ W e s t r u c k d e e p i n s i d e their heart,” said Air Marshal AK Bharti, highlighting hits on airbases such as Chaklala, Rafiqui, and Rahim Yar Khan, f o l l o w e d b y s t r i k e s o n S a r g o d h a , B h u l

Pakistani jets, stating, “Their planes were prevented from entering there are definitely losses on their side ” While h e d i d n ’ t s p e c i f y a i r c r a f t types, reports indicate an F16, possibly two JF-17s, and a P a k i s t a n

downed F o l l o w i n g O p e r a t i o n Sindoor, Shahid Kuttay, chief o f L a s h k a r -

group The Resistance Front (

and Kashmir, along with two other terrorists in 'Operation Keller' Kuttay was linked to

Sarpanch, and the February 2025 murder of a TA personnel At least five

Mohammed were eliminated in precision strikes on May

S h a r i f f o r a g r e e i n g t o a n immediate ceasefire and initia t i n g t a l k s , ” Y u n u s s a i d “Bangladesh stands ready to support our two neighbours i n r e s o l v i n g d i f f e r e n c e s

through diplomacy ” S a u d i A r a b i a w e l c o m e d t h e c e a s e f i r e a g r e e m e n t between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that it would help restore peace and stability in the region In an official statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said, “The Kingdom welcomes the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India and is optimistic it will contribute to regional security We commend both sides f o r e x e r c i s i n g w i s d o m a n d self-restraint and reaffirm our support for resolving disputes through dialogue and peaceful means ” D u r i n g t h e c a l l w i t h

C h i n e s e F o r e i g n M i n i s t e r W a n g Y i , I n d i a ’ s N S A A j i t

Doval condemned the deadly Pahalgam terror attack but

emphasised that “ war is not India’s choice,” stressing the need for targeted counter-terr o r i s m a c t i o n W a n g c o ndemned the attack, opposed all forms of terrorism, and urged India and Pakistan to de-escalate and resolve issues through dialogue He praised India’s commitment to peace, s a y i n g , “ C

I

d h o p e s b o t h s i d e s a v o i d e s c a l a t i o n and pursue diplomatic solutions ”

Misinform ation spreads am id conflict

Amid heightened IndiaP a k i s t a n t e n s i o n s a f t e r I n d i a ' s p r e c i s i o n s t r i k e s u n d e r O p e r a t i o n S i n d o o r , P a k i s t a n - b a s e d e l e m e n t s l a u n c h e d m i s i n f o r m a t i o n campaigns to spread fear and d i s t o r t t h e g r o u n d r e a l i t y

T h e s e a t t e m p t s , f o l l o w i n g the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, were swiftly debunked b y t h e P r e s s I n f o r m a t i o n Bureau’s Fact Check unit

The PIB Fact Check Unit debunked several misleading v i d e o s a i m e d a t s p r e a d i n g p a n i c d u r i n g t h e I n d i aPakistan escalation One viral clip claiming to show a drone strike in Jalandhar was identified as footage of a farm fire p o s t e d b e f o r e a n y a t t a c k b e g a n c o n f i r m e d b y t h

destroyed

staged

Indian post;

Ambala Airbase and that airports nationwide had

missed as baseless These efforts played

key role in

India removes Pakistani actors from Bollywoo

and social media

Information & Broadcasting

and digital intermediaries in India to immediately remove content from Pakistan due to national security and public order concerns This includes

actors, such as Fawad Khan

Bollywood posters, YouTube video songs, and other media Additionally, their Instagram profiles have been banned in India amid ongoing tensions

marked a significant doctrinal shift in India’s defense

will now face targeted, visible, and proportional retalia-

“Operation Sindoor was not just a military operation, but a testament to India’s politi-

leadership, India has made it clear that it will take decisive

adhering to

zero-tolerance policy

anywhere, anytime, sending a strong message that terrorists and their masterminds have no safe haven According to government sources, Operation Sindoor achieved three key objectives military, political, and psychological sending a powerful signal that India can and will strike at its enemies with precision and force, encapsulating the message: Ghus ke

by PM Narendra Modi with ral Anil Chauhan, armed forces chiefs and senior officials

DGMO Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai Air Marshal AK Bharti DGAO IAF Vice Admiral AN Pramod and Major General S S Sharda briefing the media on Operation Sindoor

Colonel Sofia Qureshi

The Union Minister for Defence, Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurates BrahMos Integration & Testing Facility Centre at Lucknow

D I A S P

O R A D I P L O M A C Y India's Global Citizens as Trade Ambassadors for the UK

- Nina Amin, Country Head of Indiaspora for the United Kingdom, and Sreekumar Nair, CEO-India and SVP - Global East of Indiaspora

T h e U ni te d K i ng d o m -I n d i a F ree T rade ag reem ent has now been co mp leted C ong ratulations are in order for the countless ministers, d iplomatic staff and adv isors w ho worked meticulously to secure its completion on a p rocess th at beg an in 2022, and persisted th roug h British po litical transitio ns Th e accord promises transformativ e econom ic p otential, creating reciprocal m arket access across a wid e range of industries Nev ertheless, substantial com plexities p ersist challeng es co mpou nd ed by th e shifting tectonic plates of global geopolitics that exert pressure on both parties' negotiating positions

The importance of this agreement cannot be minimised It merits celebration as a testament to enduring Indo-British relations But the ultimate success of any such agreement transcends municipal efforts The tangible benefits of enhanced bilateral commerce materialise only through the enterprise and initiative of private sector innovators from both countries, who must navigate cultural differences, establish trust, and forge sustainable business relationships

In this critical interpersonal dimension of international commerce, the global Indian diaspora particularly the vibrant BritishIndian community emerges as an invaluable catalyst These individuals embody the living intersection of both cultures, possessing the linguistic capabilities, cultural fluency, and transnational networks essential for converting abstract trade provisions into concrete commercial activity Their unique positionality enables them to interpret subtle cultural nuances, reconcile divergent business practices, and cultivate the personal relationships upon which successful Indo-British commerce invariably depends

The dismantling of longstanding trade barriers, particularly India's historically high tariffs, which previously constrained British exports is a significant achievement The agreement unlocks unprecedented access to India's vibrant consumer market of over one billion citizens for UK enterprises, while simultaneously facilitating substantial capital flows from British investors into India's rapidly expanding economy Enhanced Indo-British commerce assumes heightened significance against the backdrop of uncertain transatlantic relations

India stands at the confluence of multiple high-stakes commercial negotiations, methodically cultivating advantageous trade frameworks with the UK, European Union, and United States This calculated diplomatic approach extends beyond bilateral engagements to encompass sophisticated multilateral partnerships includi n g I n

Security Dialogue, and i2U2 (India-Israel-UAE-US) each integrating trade components within their broader strategic matrices This agreement will provide a clear framework that India and European Union negotiators can use to finalise an India-European Union Trade agreement

One of the major sticking points in the negotiations was the willingness of the UK Government to offer more visas to Indian workers The agreement includes an exemption of up to three years on National Insurance contributions for Indian workers a provision the Indian government insisted upon as a prerequisite for finalising the deal While British workers' concerns about this arrangement are understandable, these exemptions serve a specific

abroad Recruiting skilled labour to UK companies without such provisions, would otherwise become substantially more difficult They are limited in duration and reflect standard practice in international trade relations Indeed, the UK has already established sixteen similar agreements covering fifty countries, including the United States

Immigration has emerged as a profoundly divisive political issue, and not merely within British discourse Public apprehension regarding unauthorised migration has intensified, amid concerns about the sustainability of social welfare systems and the use of finite governmental resources These anxieties must be contextualised within a more sophisticated understanding of migration's economic dimensions

Nations engaged in strategic economic planning must differentiate between unregulated migration of unskilled labour, and the deliberate cultivation of skilled professional mobility the latter representing an indispensable component of robust international trade This nuanced approach is exemplified in the British-Indian commercial relationship, where the Indian diaspora functions as a catalyst for bilateral economic integration The British Indian community constitutes a sophisticated commercial bridge between these two historically intertwined economies These individuals possess both the cultural fluency and professional networks essential for navigating India's complex market landscape It is important for the public to see skilled migration not as a concession to be minimised, but rather as a sophisticated instrument of economic statecraft that yields returns for both nations' commercial interests

FTA opens new doors for UK industries

UKand India have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a pivotal moment in their evolving relationship

More than just a trade deal, it signals a deeper strategic partnership rooted in shared democratic values and mutual respect

The agreement will boost economic cooperation and open up access across key sectors including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, lamb, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks and more It offers significant benefits for SMEs in both nations, driving innovation, job creation, and economic

standards and shaping a future of shared prosperity

Karen Betts, Chief Executive, The Food and Drink Federation, said, “We’re delighted the government has finalised its new Free Trade Agreement with India, which is testament to the hard work of the negotiating team This is very welcome news for UK food and drink manufacturers, particularly for soft drinks, chocolates, biscuits, crisp-

access to one of the fastest growing

U K exported nearly £300m worth of food and drink to India in 2024, so this FTA represents a significant opportunity for British food and soft drinks

“The FTA will also provide UK

US–UK

manufacturers with greater access to ingredients produced in India, s

resilience and competitiveness for our sector We look forward to working with the government to ensure that the full benefits of the

wide range of UK food and drink manufacturers,” she added S

Distilleries Pvt Ltd said, “We welc

m e t

e I n d i a - U K F r e e T r a d e Agreement and believe this to be a significant step towards strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries This may have a short term impact on Indian products in India however we are confident about the quality of our products and believe we can rise to the challenge We also hope that this deal will allow better ease of business for Indian products in the UK It is crucial to ensure that both nations maintain a level playing field, safeguarding the interests of domestic industries and

promoting fair competition

comed the “transformational” d e a

Department for Business and Trade between the UK and I

trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landm

Whisky to the world’s largest whisky market The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for

potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years and create 1200 jobs across the UK The deal is good for India too, boosting federal and state revenue by over £3bn annually, and giving discerning consumers in a highly educated whisky market far greater choice from SME Scotch Whisky producers who will now have the opportunity to enter the market ”

“This agreement shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the negotiating teams on both sides deserve huge

Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times,” he added

Trade Deal: A Strategic Signal for India

Dr Param Shah, Former UK-based trade representative, business and policy professional working at the intersection of international trade, economic diplomacy, and strategic partnerships

The recently announced US–UK trade agreement marks more than just a diplomatic milestone it is a recalibration of global trade priorities and a clear signal to other major economies, including India, that bilateralism is moving at speed. Declared in Washington D C by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Donald Trump, the deal reflects both countries’ strategic commitment to deeper commercial ties in a rapidly shifting post-Brexit, post-pandemic global landscape

relaxations on key sectors including pharmaceuticals, machinery, electric

doors for American agriculture and tech services in the UK Though narrower than a traditional Free Trade Agreement, it provides a modernised framework based on mutual eco-

and geopolitical pragmatism

For India which recently concluded a landmark FTA with the UK this deal between two of its closest trading partners introduces both fresh opportunities and urgent strategic challenges

A New Tr ade Tr ian gle India enjoys robust trade relationships with both the UK and the US The recent India–UK FTA provided a strong foundation by securi

Indian exports, especially benefiting sectors like textiles, gems and jewellery, and engineering goods Now, with the UK enhancing access to the

US market, India must assess how these shifting dynamics could affect its competitiveness

This emerging trilateral framework India–UK, UK–US, and the yet-to-be-finalised India–US axis offers India the potential to not just stay relevant but to lead in a more i n t e r c o n

However, it must act with agility to realise that opportunity

Time for an Ind ia–US Ag ree men t India and the US have held multiple rounds of trade talks over the last few years, often slowed by disagreements over tariffs, agriculture, digital data regulation, and intellectual property The signing of the US–UK deal creates an added incentive for both Delhi and Washington to r e v i s i t t h e s e c o n v e r s a t i o n s w i t h greater urgency

An India–US trade agreement whether comprehensive or sectorspecific would not only enhance b i l a t e r a l f l o w s b u t e n s u r e I n d i a r e m a i n s c o m p e t i t i v e l y p o s i t i o n e d a m i d s t o v e r l a p p i n g r e g i o n a l a n d transatlantic deals As the global economic centre of gravity shifts, India must be bold, proactive, and strategic in finalising this critical link

Manufacturing : T he Backbone of Ind ia’s Economic A sp iration

India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing powerhouse is central to its economic agenda The government’s push through Make in I n d i a a n d t h e P r o d u c t i o n - L i n k e d

Incentive (PLI) schemes has already b e g u n t o y i e l d r e s u l t s H o w e v e r , global trade alignments like the US–UK deal can significantly influence the trajectory of India’s manufacturing competitiveness

T h e i n c r e a s e d e a s e o f t r a d e b e t w e e n t h e U K a n d U S m a y encourage deeper integration of UKbased manufacturing into US supply chains especially in high-value seg-

ments like aerospace components, precision engineering, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics This could pose a challenge for Indian manufacturers who rely on competitive exports to the US and UK markets

To stay ahead, India must double down on its investment in infrast r u c t u r e , s k i l l s d e v e l

trade facilitation Moreover, there is an opportunity for Indian companies to explore UK-based partners h

n d value-added production aimed at the US market leveraging India’s strong bilateral base with the UK while tapping into the new UK–US corridor

With supply chains diversifying away from China, India is well-positioned to attract high-quality manufacturing investments But speed, predictability, and strategic alignment with global trade policies will be essential

Digital Trad e and Professional

S ervices: India’s Mom ent

The US–UK deal also includes provisions for cooperation on digital trade, including data flows, fintech standards, and recognition of prof e s

a home to one of the world’s most vibrant digital and IT sectors has a unique advantage here

Dr Param Shah

- 23 Ma

Almost 60% of women have faced financial ‘mansplaining’

investment advice is to put in your earplugs and do nothing

Dear Financial Voice Reader,

Alpesh Patel

according

assumptions around financial literacy

One in three women reported being lectured on how investing works, while more than a quarter had been told how to budget by a man often leaving them feeling patronised and frustrated C

findings “deeply concerning,” saying,

The research shows that British men “mansplain” personal finance an

colleagues cited

strangers, including bank managers, taxi drivers, and men at social events

investment site Boring Money, noted,

mansplaining, nearly 70% said they have directly confronted the person offering unwanted advice

dynamics could lead women to shy away from financial opportunities or

exacerbates the gender savings gap

challenged so women feel confident, respected, and included in all financial discussions,” she added

Bank of England cuts interest rates to two-year low

The Bank of England has lowered i nterest rates to 4 2 5 per cent, the lowest level in two years, in a c losely s plit vote that s ignals both optimi sm and uncertainty in the UK ec onomy

The Monetary Policy Committee voted 5-4 in favour of a 0 25-point cut, w i t h t w

o r a larger 0 5-point reduction and two favouring no change Analysts had widely expected a near-unanimous vote, highlighting divisions within the Bank

T

mortgage price war Matt Smith of Rightmove said further mortgage rate reductions are likely in the coming weeks

Chancellor Rachel Reeves hailed the cut as “welcome news, ” noting it

Governor Andrew Bailey said easing inflation made the cut possible but

unpredictability

Despite this being the fourth rate

cut since August 2024, the Bank’s l a t e s t f o r e c

m growth downwards It now expects GDP growth to reach just 1 5% by 2027, partly due to Trump’s tariffs, which have introduced new global economic risks Inflation is projected to peak at 3 5% this summer, while unemployment is expected to rise to 5% by late 2026 The pound rose slightly following the announcement, but economists

internal divisions Analysts say the path ahead remains “murky ”

Bank of Mum and Dad deepens divide in first-time buyer market

N e w a n a ly s i s fr om U K F i n

c

of fa mily support in the UK’s first -t ime buye r (FTB) ma rk et, wit h sign ifican t d ispa

to

impact of the temporary Stamp Duty holiday, introduced during the pandemic to stimulate the h

buyers who could also draw on family support, contributing to a sharp rise in assisted FTBs The

homeowners withdrawing

unassisted counterparts

In 2024, the average age of an assisted first-time buyer was just over

3 0 , w i t h a h o u s e h o l d i n c o m e o f £56,000 Those buying without help w e r e t y p

enabled by family contributions

This trend was most pronounced in London, where the average deposit f o r u n a s s i s t e d b u y e r s w a s n e a r l y £ 1 5 0 , 0 0

support

earned more, averaging £65,000 per household Yet, assisted buyers were able to secure higher-value properties, t h a n k

deposits for relatives

James Tatch, UK Finance’s Head of Analytics, said, “While many first-time

without help, the growing reliance

approach that addresses both supply

homeownership

US–UK Trade Deal: A Strategic Signal for India

Continued from page 18

Future India–US talks must incorp

vices, and mobility of skilled professionals India’s success in securing a threey e a r s o c

m p t i o n f o r Indian workers in the UK sets an important precedent A similar understanding with the US would provide immense financial relief and competitive advantage to Indian service providers

Trade Diplo macy in a Fragmented Wo rld

B o t h t h e I n d i a – U K a n d U S – U K deals reflect a trend: a move away from large multilateral agreements towards nimble, targeted, and strategically motivated bilateral deals The UK, in particular, has shown remarkable diplomatic agility post-Brexit India’s strength lies in its scale, demographic dividend, and e n t r e p r

unlocking these requires matching agility in economic diplomacy

The time for reactive policy is over India must now proactively shape its trade future, including with partners like the US, EU, and Indo-Pacific countries I mpl ications fo r the Dias pora

For the Indian diaspora in the UK and US many of whom are business leaders, investors, professionals, and e n t r

ecosystem offers immense potential From bilateral investment flows and educational exchanges to sustainable technology and digital innovation, the diaspora community can act as a bridge between national interests and global opportunities But alongside opportunity comes a role in advocacy supp

policies that deliver not just growth, but equity and innovation

India m ust lead with sp eed and s trategy

The US–UK trade deal is more than a bilateral accord it is a prompt for India to act It challenges us to rethink supply chains, align with global standards, and conclude pending negotiations with strategic intent

India has already proven its capability through the India–UK FTA, a his-

next chapter lies in crafting a strong, mutually beneficial agreement with the United States one that supports manufacturing, digital services, and highvalue exports while reinforcing India’s image as a reliable and ambitious trade partner Global trade is no longer about size alone; it’s about speed, strategy, and s

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T

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I

Banking sector’s net profit crossed £10 bn in 4th quarter Japan’s SMBC to

T h e b an ki n g s ec to r ’ s Q 4

c o n s o l i da ted n et p ro f

cros sed £10bn for the first time in the quarter ended March 2025 Pu blic sector and private banks together

p o s te d a

£10 01bn in Q4FY 25, u p 9 % from £9 18bn in th e yearago quarter Bank earnings accounted for over a third of listed

This growth came despite

squeeze in net interest margins, as lending rates fell following RBI’s Feb rate cut, while deposit costs stayed high Lenders, however, offset the impact through treas u

from bad loans

The rate cut and RBI’s liquidity infusion brought down bond yields, resulting in mark-to-market gains As bond yields fall, the value of

which conducted open market repurchases

Public sector banks ben-

decline in bond yields as

deposits are invested in gov-

Q4FY25 net profit rose 13%

including IDBI Bank, which, while classified as a private

lender, is largely owned by LIC and the govt P

posted a relatively modest 5 2% rise in net profit

provisions of nearly £2bn on

warn that profits could turn

microfinance book

Among PSU banks, four lenders - SBI (40%), Bank of

Bank (10 3%), Union Bank

contributed over 80% of the profits

India’s exports to US surpass $11bn in March

I n

soa red over 47% t o $11 2 billion d uring March a s compan ies shippe d pla ne -loads of e le ctron ics goods, ge ms and j

t Don ald Tr ump ’ s r ecipr ocal t ar iffs d ead line

A s a r e s u l t , I n d i a ’ s monthly exports to the US

b r e a c h e d t h e $ 1 1 b i l l i o n mark for the first time and s u r p a s s e d t h e p r e v i o u s

record of $8 5 billion in May 2

dropped marginally to $3 8 billion from $4 billion a year earlier, resulting in India’s trade surplus widening to a r e c o r d $ 7 4 b i l l i o n , d a t a available on the US Census website showed

T h e U S s a w a r e c o r d trade deficit in March as sellers stocked up to avert higher tariffs, which would have

forced them to raise prices

A p p l e s h i p p e d f i v e p l a n eloads of electronics goods, primarily iPhones, to beat tariffs, while gems and jewellery shipments also soared This could, however, lead to a slowdown in exports in the coming months

D u r i n g t h e J a n - M a r c h quarter, India’s exports to the US grew 30% to $27 7 bill i o n , w h i l e i m p o r t s w e r e 6 1% higher at $10 5 billion

Tata Steel to infuse $2.5bn into Singapore arm

Ta ta St ee l will in ject $2 5 billion (Rs 21, 411 cr ore) in to it s Singa pore-based subsid ia ry , T S tee l Holdin gs, to support its Europea n busin ess a nd r educe debt T St eel Hold in gs ser ves

a s t he holdin g compa ny for Tata St ee l’s opera tions in th e UK and t he Ne the rla nds T h e c o m p a n y ’ s b o a r d a p p

d t h e investment on Monday As the entire stake in T Steel Holdings is already owned by Tata Steel, the capital infusion will not affect the shareholding structure of the Singapore entity

The investment comes after Tata Steel converted $565 million (Rs 4,822 crore) in loans to T Steel into equity earlier in FY25 The move signals a strategic push to stabilise and transform its European business amid tightening environmental regulations

Tata Steel’s UK and Netherlands units

a r e u n d e r g o i n g s i g n i f i c a n t

driven by Europe’s decarbonisation efforts

The company is phasing out older, highemission production assets and transitioning to electric arc furnace-based production, a cleaner and more sustainable alternative

The company also highlighted future uncertainties It said cash flow projections will depend on evolving regulatory frame-

imported goods in the EU and UK This system aims to ensure that domestic producers, who already pay carbon costs, are not at a disadvantage

Tata Steel added that future performance will also hinge on the availability and cost of c

dynamics related to green steel pricing and associated production costs

Sitharaman asks banks to ensure uninterrupted services

Nirm ala Sith araman asked a ll ba nk s to re m ai n fu l ly alert and prep ared to d eal w ith any eventuality or crisis She em phasised the need

t o ens u re u ni nt err up ted access to banking and financ i al s erv ic e s fo r ci t iz en s acro ss the country and bord er areas against the backd rop of o ng oing tensions

T h e f i n a n c e

, who met managing directors and CEOs of state-run banks and insurance companies amid concerns arising from tensions at the border, stated that banking services - both physical and digitalmust function without disr u p t

insisted that emergency pro-

contingencies

e critical role of the banking

ensuring economic stability during heightened geopolitical tensions and challeng-

Fiv e years after a group o f Ind ian lenders led by SBI s tep p ed i n to r es c ue Y es B ank , J ap a n ’ s S u m i to m o Mitsui Banking Corporation (SM BC) w ill acquire a 20% stake in the private lender for £1 3 4bn, making it the l arg e st sh a reh o l d er T h e d eal, India’s big gest crossbord er banking investment, marks a shift in ownership of th e bank o nce run by veteran banker Rana Kapoor Kapoor lost control in 2020 after the bank nearly collapsed due to bad loans, w h i c h w i p e d o

worth RBI then mandated

under which eight Indian banks took equity stakes SBI will now sell a 13 2%

buy 20% in Yes Bank

stake, cutting its holding to just over 10% ICICI Bank, H

Mahindra Bank, Axis Bank,

IndiGo to lease two Boeing 787 jets from Norse Atlantic Airways

starting early next year, as part of its efforts to tap into long -haul routes

Under the lease agree-

provide the aircraft, along with pilots and maintenance services, while IndiGo will supply the cabin crew

The damp lease agreement adds to the existing

number of wide-body aircraft under this collaboration to six The initial term

months, extendable up to 18 months I n

operating from March 1 in the Delhi-Bangkok route

The low-cost carrier said in March it plans to significantly increase the number of seats it allocates for international flights by fiscal year

the domestic market, where it commands a nearly 60% share, comes at a time when Indian carriers are racing to

demand for both domestic and international air travel, despite aircraft supply constraints

banks to ensure their adequate safety by effectively coordinating with security agencies F

Priority must be given to seamless cash availability at A T M s , u n i n t

u p t e d U P I and internet banking services, and continued access to essential banking facilit

said after the meeting

O n e 97 C o m mu n i c a t i on s (Pa ytm ), its chairma n & MD Vijay Shekha r Shar ma, a nd h is br o t he r A ja y s et t le d a case wit h mar ke ts re gula tor Se bi for wrongful a llotme nt o f e s op s ( e m p lo y e e st oc k o w n e r s h ip p la n ) t o t h e brothe rs just a head of the compan y ’ s IPO in 2021 Under the terms of the settlement, Paytm and Vijay w i l l p a y a s e t t l e m e n t amount of £110,000 each The company will also canc e l 2 1 m n e s o p s t h a t w e r e granted to Vijay and another

220,000 esops to Ajay

U n d e r t h e s e t t l e m e n t terms, Vijay will also not be eligible to receive any esop from any listed company for three years On his part, Ajay will disgorge Rs 57,1o,ooo, t h e u n l a w f u l g a i n t h a t accrued to him from selling Paytm shares, Sebi papers for settlement of the case showed Under Sebi rules, a company cannot allot esops to its promoters and their family members However, in the case of Paytm, days before the company filed its

IPO papers, Vijay derecognised himself as a promoter and was allotted esops The company also allotted esops t o V i j a y ’ s b r o t h e r , w h o under the regulator’s rules was categorised under the promoter’s family Sebi’s show cause notice said that Vijay, as the CMD o f P a y

making of (the) nomination and remuneration committee while approving grant of e

brother ”

Porter becomes India’s 2nd unicorn this year with $200mn

Nirmala Sitharaman

in brief

PAK TO HIKE DEFENCE SPENDING BY 18%

Pakistan s coalition govt has endorsed an 18% increase in defence spending to over Rs 2 5 trillion in the next budget due to tensions with India, according to a media report The govt is set to unveil the 2025-26 budget in the first week of the next month ahead of the start of the new fiscal year from July 1 According to reports, the PPP team, headed by its chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, met PM Shehbaz Sharif and his economic team to discuss the budget The PML-N-led govt shared the roughly Rs 17 5 trillion worth of new budget framework with PPP which agreed to the 18% increase in defence outlay

There was a consensus between the allies to increase the defence budget due to the recent wave of tensions with India reports said

ZIA PRESSURES YUNUS TO HOLD POLLS AT EARLIEST

Amid heightened political tensions and a show of mass support in Dhaka BNP chairperson and ailing former PM Khaleda Zia returned from London after four months of treatmenther return seen as a potential turning point in the opposition s push for elections and a return to democratic governance Zia, arch rival of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina, and her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been urging interim govt to hold elections in Dec this year BNP is currently the major political party, and Zia’s return came as BNP continued to mount pressure on the interim govt to hold elections in the “quickest possible” time

21 KILLED AS BUS SKIDS OFF A CLIFF IN LANKA

A passenger bus skidded off a cliff in Sri Lanka s tea-growing hill country, killing 21 people and injuring 35 others, police said The accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday near the town of Kotmale, about 140 km east of capital Colombo, in a mountainous area of central Sri Lanka, police said Local television showed the bus lying overturned at the bottom of a precipice while workers and others helped remove injured people from the rubble The driver was injured and among those admitted to the hospital Police have launched an investigation

MAN WITH KNIFE SLASHES TWO AT A TOKYO STATION

A man with a knife slashed two passengers waiting for a train at a Tokyo subway station during the evening rush, and their injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, Japanese media reported Japan s NHK television said the attacker was seen brandishing a kitchen knife on the platform of a station on the subway’s Namboku line Tokyo police arrested the suspect at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder and were investigating Police said there had been no official announcement on the still-developing case Trains on the line were temporarily suspended for “inspection” of subway cars, operator Tokyo Metro said

IRAN AGREES TO 4TH ROUND OF N-TALKS WITH US

Iran has agreed to hold a fourth round of indirect nuclear talks with the US in Oman the semi-official Tasnim News Agency reported The negotiations initially scheduled for May 3 in Rome, was postponed, with mediator Oman citing logistical reasons Following a proposal by the Omani foreign minister to hold the fourth round of talks, Tehran has announced its agreement Tasnim quoted the unnamed member of Iran s team as saying

“The fourth round of Iran-US talks in Oman has been finalised ”

Storm in Bangladesh as ex-President leaves for Thailand on 3 am flight

DHAKA: Bangladesh's former Presi dent Moh ammad

A bd u l H am id b o ard e d a Thai A irways fligh t from the Dhaka internatio nal airport at 3 am and left th e country as most Bangladesh is were in a deep sleep A s the interim go vernment woke up and found wh at had h app ened , it suspended and transferred officials and constituted a

those being

robed

the anti-Sheikh Hasina agitation last year

H

President of Bangladesh for two terms - from 2013 to 2023 He is also a co-accused in at least one case of mur-

Hasina and her aides from the agitation period in 2024 T

accused of opening fire and killing protesters who were out to oust her

The 81-year-old former president is an accused in

Tribune, with Hasina and

Quader is also a co-accused in the case

The interim government of Muhammad Yunus has

departure of Abdul Hamid t

reports Police officers have been suspended and transferred as Hamid left in a lungi for Thailand His family members say he left with his brother and brother-inlaw for medical treatment, but his political opponents say that he has fled to escape being tried in Bangladesh

Baloch rebels hoist flags of liberation

Q U E TT A: Wh ile P akistan is

Baloch rebels

Pakistani s ecurity fo rces At least three grou ps of Baloc

figh ters

pro vince, Balo chistan

The developments come amid fighting between several rebel groups and Pakistani forces escalating and calls for B

growing louder Images and

r pulling down Pakistan s are

momentum in the last week

The attacks come even as the Islamabad-Rawalpindi establishment is focused on reacting to India's strike on terror camps as part of Operation Sindoor The Baloch groups have intensified to such an extent that the forces of the P a k i s t a n i s e c u r i t y f o r c e s faced at least four attacks by " u n i d e n t i f i e d a r m e d assailants" in the provincial capital of Quetta last week Explosions and intense gunf i r e w e r e r e p o r t

B a l o c h i s t a n - b a s e d R a d i o

Zrumbesh English

T h e B a l o c h L i b e r a t i o n Army (BLA) rebels targeted "the Pakistani Army and its collaborators in six separate attacks in Kech, Mastung and Kachi", according to Radio Zrumbesh English

" B a l o c h p e o p l e h a v e s t a r t e d h o i s t i n g t h e i r o w n f l a g s a n d t a k i n g d o w n Pakistani flags Time for the world to pull back their diplomatic missions from Pakistan and shift them into the newly e m e r g i n g c o u n t r y o f

B a l o c h i s t a n F a r e w e l l t o P a k i s t a n , w e l c o m e t o Balochistan, Baloch writer Mir Yar Baloch posted on X

US shuts down Pakistan's phone-a-friend bail out option

W A S H I N G T O N : I n t he middle of an unprecedented pounding by India, Pakis tan woke up to realis e its m os t reliable lifel ine had al so been wit hdrawn Throughout it s his tor y, Pa kis t an ha d be en get ting into con fr on tat ion s wit h Indi a wit h the be l ie f that if the going got tough it woul d be bail ed out by the US, to whom it woul d rush wi th a n S OS B ut , i n t he a f t e r m a t

pa g e 1 6 -1 7) th e US h a s denied Pakis tan the luxury of a soft landing

During the Kargil war in May 1999 and unwilling to l e t P a k i s t

t a w a y without punishment, India made a bold move It asked the Army’s Strike Corps to make preparations to leave t h e i r b a s e s A r o u n d t

p y satellites captured images of Indian tanks, heavy artillery being loaded on trains in Rajasthan The message was clear: India was about to a t t a c k P a k i s t a n i n retaliation for the intrusion in Kargil

P r i o

h i s mobilisation, Pakistan was

c platforms, the Nawaz Sharif g

g Pakistan’s role in Kargil In

conflict

But the moment Sharif heard of the movement on the Indian border, he sought a meeting with US President Bill Clinton At the meeting,

fighters out of Kargil, and restore the sanctity of the Line of Control

P

during the Kargil war tells us two important things One,

Pakistan is wary of fighting

wants to save itself, Pakistan leans on Washington (or the i

i t y ) for a face-saving exit

But, this time, the option of an honourable exit has been shut by Washington Speaking to Fox News, US

v

r u l e d o u t W a s h i n g t o n ’ s involvement in the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict Washington’s neutrality

Bangladesh bans Awami League under revised anti-terrorism law

is in stark contrast to its historic pro-Pakistan stand during past conflicts In 1971, the US had deployed its 7th F l e e t , l e d b y t h e n u c l e a rpowered aircraft carrier USS E n t e r p r i s e , t o t h e B a y o f

B e n g a l t o d e t e r I n d i a I n

2 0 0 1 , w h e n t h e t w o countries were on the brink o f a w a r a f t e r t h e t e r r o r s t r i k e s o n t h e I n d i a n Parliament, Washington had sent its envoys to New Delhi to defuse the crisis Just a few years ago, the Joe Biden administration had helped P a k i s t a n u p g r a d e i t s F - 1 6 fleet But Vance’s statement shows how far Washington h a s c o m e s i n c e 1 9 7 1 , a n d how it values relations with India

S o f a r , s u p p o r t f o r Pakistan has been limited to a s m a l l g r o u p o f a l l i e s , p r i m a r i l y C h i n a , T u r k e y , and Azerbaijan This reflects P a k i s t a n ’ s i n c r e a s i n g isolation, as traditional allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have adopted balanced or pro-India stances India’s d i p l o m a t i c o u t r e a c h , including briefings to G20 a n d G u l f s

garnered broader sympathy f

D HA K A : Bangladesh’s interim govt too k th e u np r e c ed e nt e d s te p o f iss u ing a ga ze tt e n ot ific at io n ban ning al l ac tivities of Awami Leagu e - the country’s o ldest po litical partyand its affiliated o utf its , in a move critics s ay ref lects a deepening pol itical crisis fo llowing th e o uster of lo ngtime P M Sheikh Has ina T he ban, enforced under a h astil y amended Anti- Terrorism Act, marks a dram atic esc alation in th e Yu nus- led govt’s eff orts to resh ape th e p os t-Hasina po litical lands cape

The home ministry invoked Section 18 of the new Act to impose the ban, citing “ reasonable grounds” that the party and its affiliates were involved in terrorism

The revised law permits govt to declare any ‘entity’ - not just individuals - as terrorist if sufficient grounds exist According to the gazette, the ban will remain in effect until International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh completes the trials of Awami League members and activists accused of crimes against humanity during last year ’ s anti-govt protests, which led to the ousting of Hasina on Aug 5, ending her 16-year rule Earlier, the interim govt announced the prohibition of all Awami League activities, including online engagement, press statements, and public gatherings The following night, President M

ordinance reinforcing the law by banning all forms of publicity or expression of support for individuals or entities charged under Section 18(1) Awami League has rejected govt’s decision and vowed to continue its political activities “in an appropriate manner ”

and close the Gates Foundation on Dec 31, 2045

“People will say a lot of things about me when I die, but I am determined that ‘he died rich’ will not be one of them,” Gates wrote in a post on his website “There are too many urgent problems to solve for me to hold onto resources that could be

rebuke to President Trump’s slashing of aid from the world’s biggest donor the US, Gates’ statement said he wanted to help stop newborn babies, children and mothers dying of preventable causes, end diseases like polio, malaria and measles, and reduce poverty “It’s unclear whether the world’s richest countries will continue to stand up for its poorest people,” he added, noting cuts from

France Gates said that despite the foundation’s deep pockets, progress would not be possible without govt support Gates made the announcement on the foundation’s 25th anniversary He set up the

Mohammad Abdul Hamid

Sheikh Hasina

Bill Gates

W

At 5.2mn, Indians are second largest Asian group in the US: Pew Research

from India or those born in the US or elsewhere but with Indian a n c e s t

demographic over the past two

d

sustained immigration, family

opportunities

Residency

In terms of residency status, 60% of Indian immigrants have lived in the US for more than 10

rigin group

r em a in s C h in es e A m e ri ca ns , w h o se nu m ber s s tan d a t approximately 5 5 million

The Indian community in the US, as defined in the report of May 1, includes all individuals w h o i d e n

naturalization, underscoring the

Indian Americans have made to life in the United States Economics

$151,200 in 2023, significantly

immigrants fared even better,

$156,000 - compared to $120,200 for households led by US-born Indian Americans

Langu ag e Indian Americans are among

culturally diverse Asian groups in the US While a large share (74%) of the community speaks English proficiently, many also use Indian languages at home Hindi is spoken by 18% of Indian

Americans, followed by Telugu (11%), Gujarati (10%), and Tamil (7%)

Religion Religiously, nearly half (48%) of Indian Americans identify as Hindu, making it the dominant

Christianity and religious nonaffiliation are each reported by about 15% of the population States

population, with about 960,000 individuals - nearly 20% of the

community Texas follows with

(440,000), New York (390,000), and Illinois (270,000)

One more Indian student arrested for defrauding seniors

RALIE IGH: A 2 1-year -old Indian

s t ud en t ha

re s te d in N or

or im pers ona ting a

ement o

in

n

b or

c a m t argeting an elderly wom an, in what appears to be a growing and t roubling trend involving Indian s tudent s across t he US

Kishan Kumar Singh, who h a d b e e n r e s i d i n g n e a r Cincinnati, Ohio, on a student visa since 2024, was taken into custody in Guilford County after attempting to collect a package of money from a 78-year-old woman under the pretense of

being a federal agent According to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, the victim was convinced that her bank accounts had been compromised and was pressured into withdrawing a significant sum for “safekeeping ”

when he arrived to retrieve the money in person He now faces f e l o

attempted obtaining of property b

exploitation of an elder adult He is currently being held at the G u i l f o r d C

Center on a $1 million bond

“Scammers are targeting seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, pretending to be

your loved

Indian students on US soil In

Hajiali Vahora

University - were arrested in El Paso, Texas, in connection with a multi-layered fraud scheme The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office said the duo posed as g o v e r n m e n t a g e n t s a n d threatened an elderly resident into handing over money via a cryptocurrency ATM and gold bullion

J u s t w e e k s p r i o r , H a r d i k

Jayantilal Patel, another Indian national, was sentenced to 46 m o n t h s i n p r i s o n f o r orchestrating a $3 2 million scam that primarily targeted senior citizens across the United States

Robert Francis Prevost elected first American pontiff

VAT ICA N C ITY: Robe rt Francis

P re vost was e le ct ed t he 26 7th

p o pe of t he R om a n C a t ho l i c Church and took the na me Pope Le o XIV, becoming the first pope

f r om t h e Un i t e d S t a t e s a n d de fying the conve ntional wisdom

b e for e t h e co n cl a ve t h a t a n y Amer ican would b e a l on g shot to b ecome pontiff

A puff of white smoke from a

c h i m n e y a b o v e t h e S i s t i n e

C h a p e l s i g n a l l e d t h a t t h e cardinals sequestered inside for

t w o d a y s h a d e l e c t e d a n e w l e a d e r t h e w o r l d ’ s 1 4 b i l l i o n Roman Catholics As pope, Leo X I V w i l l c o n f r o n t d i f f i c u l t d e c i s i o n s a b o u t t h e c h u r c h ’ s d i r e c t i o n , c h i e f l y w h e t h e r t o

c o n t i n u e t h e a g e n d a o f h i s predecessor, Pope Francis, who c h a m p i o n e d g r e a t e r i n c l u s i o n and openness to change until his

d e a t h l a s t m o n t h , o r f o r g e a different path

The cardinals reached their decision after being in conclave for a little more than 24 hours, a n d a f t e r s e v e r a l r o u n d s o f

Robert Francis Prevost

v o t i n g T h e g r o u p o f 1 3 3 cardinals, the most ever to gather i n a c o n c l a v e , i n c l u d e d m a n y who were appointed by Francis and some who did not know one another That had made reaching a q u i c k c o n s e n s u s a s e r i o u s challenge, given the broad group o f c o n t e n d e r s a n d t h e s p l i t s among them about the future of the church

Despite his American roots, Cardinal Prevost, a 69-year-old, Chicago-born polyglot, is viewed as a churchman who transcends b o r d e r s H e s e r v e d f o r

naturalised citizen, then rose to lead his international religious order

Until the death of Francis, he held one of the most influential Vatican posts, running the office that selects and manages bishops globally

A member of the Order of St Augustine, he resembles Francis in his commitment to the poor a n d m i g r a n t s a n d t o m e e t i n g people where they are He told t

s website last year that “the bishop is not supposed to be a little

prince sitting in his kingdom ” He has spent much of his life outside the US Ordained in 1982 at age 27, he received a doctorate in canon law at the Pontifical University of St Thomas Aquinas i n R o m e I n P e r u , h e w a s a missionary, parish priest, teacher and bishop As the Augustinians’ leader, he visited orders around the world, and speaks Spanish and Italian PM Modi congratulates Pope Leo P

Modi extended warm greetings t o P o p e L e

X I V

e a f f

i n g I n d i a ’ s c o m m i t m e n t t o c o n t i n u e d d i a l o g u e a n d engagement with the Holy See in pursuit of shared ideals “I convey s i n c e r e f e l i c i t a t i o n s a n d b e s t wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV,” Modi posted “His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a m o m e n t o f p r o f o u n d s i g n i f i c a n c e i n a d v a n c i n g t h e i d e a l s o f p e a c e , h a r m o n y , solidarity, and service ”

Two children of a Gujarati family die after boat capsizes off San Diego

SAN DIEGO: Tw o chi ld ren of a Guja ra ti fami ly from Me hsa na d ied a ft e r a hu m a n sm u g g li n g b

fa mily of Bri jeshkuma r Pa te l and J agruti Patel

Prince and his

e n c y c r e w

h o u g h Brijeshkumar remains in a coma and Jagruti is still hospitalized T h e f a m i l y w a s a m o n g a l a r g e r g

in

brief

FIRST GROUP OF WHITE SOUTH AFRICANS ARRIVE IN US

The first group of white South Africans granted refugee status by Donald Trump s administration has arrived in the US, stirring controversy in South Africa as the US president declared the Afrikaners victims of a “genocide ” The Afrikaners, a minority descended from mainly Dutch colonists, were met at Dulles international airport outside Washington DC by US deputy secretary of state, Christopher Landau, and deputy secretary of homeland security Troy Edgar with many given US flags to wave According to reports, the group numbered 59 adults and children citing a state department official

US AND CHINA AGREE TO CUT TARIFFS FOR 90 DAYS

US and China took a step to defuse the trade war threatening the world’s two largest economies agreeing to temporarily reduce the punishing tariffs they have imposed on each other In a joint statement they said they would suspend their respective tariffs for 90 days and continue negotiations they started this weekend US would reduce the tariff on Chinese imports to 30% from its current 145% while China would lower its import duty on American goods to 10% from 125%

The move by US, after President Donald Trump had repeatedly declared that he would not lower tariffs without concessions from China, represented an acknowledgment of the costs of an all-out trade war

MERZ ELECTED GERMAN CHANCELLOR

Friedrich Merz won a second-chance vote to become Germany s chancellor, rebounding from a morning defeat in parliament that threatened to hobble the next government before it was sworn into office Merz was set to immediately begin the ceremonial tasks of assuming the country’s top leadership post which were delayed half a day by the events in parliament, before embarking for Paris and Warsaw, Poland, to meet with key allies The vote was a relief for Merz, 69, the leader of the center-right Christian Democrats, which finished first in national elections in February

TUFTS STUDENT RELEASED FROM DETENTION CENTRE

A Tufts University student from Turkiye was released from a Louisiana immigration detention centre, more than six weeks after she was arrested walking on the street of a Boston suburb US district judge William Sessions in Burlington ordered the release of Rumeysa Ozturk pending a final decision on her claim that she’s been illegally detained following an op-ed she co-wrote last year that criticised the school’s response to Israel’s war in Gaza A photo provided by her legal team showed her outside smiling with her attorneys in Louisiana, where the immigration proceedings will continue

SCRIPPS SPELLING BEE REVAMPS RULES

The 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee begins on May 27 And, the organization has said it is dialing back its reliance on the high-pressure tiebreaker round known as the “spell-off,” giving judges more leeway to let the competition unfold naturally - even if it runs longer than scheduled The change follows widespread criticism from last year when two finalists were abruptly ushered into a timed tiebreaker without facing off in the traditional spelling format Previously, the spell-off was automatically triggered if a champion wasn t crowned by the end of the two-hour broadcast window That requirement has now been scrapped Judges can now opt to continue the bee through extra rounds instead of resorting to the unpopular spell-off

India expels Pak diplomat, gives him 24 hours to leave

I n di a h a s ex p e ll ed a P ak i s ta

d i p l o ma t f ro m t h e H ig h

C o m mi s s i o n i n N e

D el h i , declaring him p erso na no n grata fo r engaging in activities "not in keeping with his o ffi cial status "

T he official was o rdered to leave

wi th i n 24 ho u rs , as New Delh i escalated its dip lo matic offensive agai nst Islamabad amid renewed tensions over Kash mir and crossbo rder terrorism

diplomatic censure

host country c

diplomat or official to leave its territory, typically within days

Under Article 9 of the Vienna C

Relations (1961), this can be done a t

explanation While often invoked in cases of espionage or actions d

nation’s interests, it can also serve

individual loses diplomatic

and if not recalled by their

diplomatic mission The expulsion comes as

standing position on Jammu and

insisting the only issue open for d

d Kashmir and the dismantling of terrorist infrastructure

“The outstanding matter is the v

Indian origin Anita Anand named Canada foreign minister

C ana d i an P ri m e M in i st er M ark C ar ney u nv eiled his new C abinet, promo ting IndoC anadian A nita Anand to th e position o f th e c o untr y ’ s f orei g n m i nis ter a nd retai ni ng F rançois-Ph ilipp e C hampagne as m inister of finance

Carney announced a two-tier ministry with members of the Cabinet and secretaries of state (equivalent of ministers of state)

There are 28 Cabinet ministers and ten secretaries of state In a statement released

b y t h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r ’ s O f f i c e ( P M O ) , Carney said, “Canada’s new Ministry is built to deliver the change Canadians want and d e s e r v e E v e r y o n e i s e x p e c t e d a n d empowered to show leadership – to bring new ideas, a clear focus, and decisive action

t o t h e i r w o r k ” T h e y w e r e s w o r n i n b y Governor General Mary Simon on Tuesday morning at Rideau Hall in Ottawa

A l s o p r o m o t e d w a s a n o t h e r I n d oCanadian Maninder Sidhu, who was reelected in the April 28 federal election from Brampton East, and was made Canada’s new minister of international trade

The two Indo-Canadian secretaries of state are Ruby Sahota, who will be charged with combating crime and Randeep Sarai, w h o w i l l h a n d l e t h e p o r t f o l i o o f

international development

Anand’s elevation was the major change in the Cabinet She was a law professor at the U n i v e r s i t y o f T o r o n t o b e f o r e s h e w a

recruited to run in the 2019 federal election

Anand, who had initially announced she was opting out of the 2025 Federal election, reentered the race after Prime Minister Carney reached out to her and emerged among his confidants

Anand, also the first woman of Hindu heritage to be elected a member of the House of Commons, was appointed minister

November 2019, and that turned out to be

arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic and the requirement for purchasing vaccine supplies for the country In 2021, she was made

became president of the Treasury Board

responsibility of the transport department

On December 20, she was made minister of transport and internal trade

She served as minister of innovation, science and industry in the last Carney Cabinet and retained the riding of Oakville East comfortably

Sotheby’s postpones Buddha-linked jewel auction after India threatens to sue

A u c ti o n ho u s e S o th e by’ s h as p ostpon ed the sale of a collection of anci en t jewels lin ked to the relics of t h e B ud d h a af te r t h e I n d i a n g overnment formally objected an d threaten ed leg al action

The collection, known as the Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha, dates back to the Mauryan Empire during the Ashokan Era (circa 240–200 BCE) and w a s d i s c o v e r e d i n 1 8 9 8 a t P i p r a h w a , i n present-day Uttar Pradesh It was set to be a u c t i o n e d o n M a y 7 a t S o t h e

’ s headquarters in Hong Kong

India’s Ministry of Culture sent a letter to Sotheby’s on May 5, describing the artifacts as part of the “inalienable religious and cultural heritage of India and the global Buddhist community ” The letter argued that their sale would violate Indian and international laws, as well as United Nations conventions on

cultural property

In response, Sotheby’s issued a statement saying it had postponed

raised by the Government of India

consignors ” The auction house said this would allow time for discussions between the parties The planned auction had drawn c

n d monastic leaders, who said that offering the items for sale disregarded their religious and historical significance India’s letter a l s o n

sentiments of over 500 million Buddhists worldwide” and goes against core Buddhist

d previously described the discovery of the Piprahwa relics as a major archaeological m i l e s t o n

h o w t h e jewels came to be consigned for private sale

Myanmar airstrike kills 20 students, 2 teachers

An airstrike by Myanm ar ’ s m ilitary o n a vill age in the cou ntry’s central Sagaing regio n h it a s c ho ol o n M on da y, k il ling as many as 2 0 s tudents and two teach ers, acco rding to a m ember o f a resistance gro up, an aid worker and media repo rts

The morning attack on Ohe Htein Twin village in the region’s Tabayin township, also known as Depayin, also wounded dozens of students, they said State-run MRTV television denied the reports of the airstrike, saying subversive media outlets were intentionally spreading fake news

T

February 2021 when it seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi More than 6,600 civilians are estimated to have been killed by security forces since then, a

governmental organizations UN Secretary-

concern at reports of the airstrike on the

earthquake He said that “ even in times of armed conflict, schools must be protected,” his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said

t e r r i t o r y b y P a k i s t a n , ” E x t e r n a l

A

Randhir Jaiswal said at a briefing, reiterating India's national stance that all matters related to Jammu and Kashmir must be addressed bilaterally with Pakistan

Modi underscored this message in h i s f i r s t n a t i o n a l a d d r e s s s i n c e

Operation Sindoor (refer page 161

Kashmir beyond terrorism and the status of Pak-occupied Kashmir, asserting, “Terror and talks can't go together terror and trade can't h a p p e n t o g e t h e r t e r r o r a n d water can't flow together "

H i s r e f e r e n c e t o w a t e r h i

suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, with Pakistan reportedly s

precondition to ceasefire talks

The diplomatic row also comes against the backdrop of renewed m e d i a t i o n o f f e r s f r o m U S President Donald Trump, who, in a recent social media post, claimed credit for the ceasefire and offered t o b r o k e r a s o l

h

Kashmir dispute India, however, rejected Trump’s overtures - just as it did in 2019 - asserting no such request had been made and that Kashmir remains strictly a bilateral issue

US, Saudis sign $142bn defence deal during Trump visit

T h e U nited States and S au d i Ara bia o n Tuesday sig ned a defence agreement wo rth nearly $1 42 billion, according to the Wh ite H o u se T h e d eal w i ll all o w Ri y ad h t o purchase ad vanced equ ipment and services fro m Am erican co mpanies

The agreement was part of a broader commitment by Saudi Arabia to invest $600 billion in the US, the White House said in a factsheet The signing took place during the ongoing visit of US President Donald Trump to Saudi Arabia The defence deal includes a

agreement includes other commercial deals These cover exports of gas turbines and e n e r g y s o l u t i o n s f r o m G e n e r a l E

r i c valued at $14 2 billion, and Boeing 737-8 passenger aircraft sales worth $4 8 billion

“The agreements reflect a deepening of our commercial and defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia,” the White House said President Trump’s visit comes as part of

countries The deal also signals continued U S s u p p

y modernisation and economic investment in American industries

Karamsad Shree Krishna Hospital opens state-of-the-art operation theatres

S hr e e K ri shn a H osp it a l i n K ar a ms ad ha s en ha nce d it s surgical ca pa bilities wit h t he i n a ug u r a t io n o f si x n e wl y r e n o v a t e d operat ion theatr es on May 12 This £45 0,000 re novation was made possibl e through t he gen erous cont ribution s of se veral pr ominen t orga niza tion s an d in dividua ls, re sult ing in fa c il it i e s t h a t b o a st a d v a n ce d su r gi ca l i n fr a st r uct u r e a n d t e c hn o l o gi ca l adva nce me nts, including a ut omat ed systems al igned wit h the l atest medical nor ms

T h e s e u p g r a d a t i o n s w o u l d h e l p t o

e n h a n c e b o t h p a t i e n t c o m f o r t a n d s t a f f

efficiency The new facility encompasses dedicated consulting rooms, pre-operative rooms, recovery rooms, an on-site pharmacy for operating theatre needs, and a modern H V A C ( h e a t i n g , v e n t i l a t i o n , a n d a i r

c o n d i t i o n i n g ) s y s t e m U p g r a d e d s t a f f facilities include a lounge and rest rooms A key highlight of the renovated operation t h e a t r e s i s a n e w l y i n s t a l l e d v i d e o

technology facilitates live broadcasts with t w o - w a y c o m m u n i c a t i o n , o f

Bhaikaka University medical students and doctors during surgical procedures

The establishment of these facilities was supported by the significant donations from Elecon Group of Companies; Navin Fluorine International Limited, Mumbai; Downtown M o t o r s P r

Mankad and Sureshbhai Nair

Limited), members of the Savitaben and

p t proceedings against Dubey, a bench of CJI Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar said, “ We are of the firm opinion that courts are not as fragile as flowers to wither and wilt under such ludicrous statements

We do not believe that the confidence in and credibility of the courts in the eyes of the public can be shaken by such absurd statements, though it can be said that there is a desire and deliberate attempt to do so ” “Courts believe in values like free press, fair trial, judicial fearlessness and community confidence Thus, courts need not protect t h e i r v e r d i c t s a n d d e c i s i o n s b y t a k i n g recourse to the power of contempt Surely, courts and judges have shoulders broad e n o u

people would perceive and recognise when criticism or critique is biased, scandalous and ill-intentioned,” it said

Dignitaries at the inauguration ceremony

Donald Trump & Mohammed bin Salman

(

PMK leader takes a dig at Stalin over caste survey

: In a power ful display of p

C

M ahabalipuram on Sun day

“Every year, for thousands of years, our community has been celebrating Chithirai Full Moon celebrations in the place which was ruled by us This time, we ’ re here not just to celebrate, b

Anbumani declared “We thank Prime M i n i s t e r M o d i f o

u n c i n g

h e caste census But what we need is micro-level data, like what Bihar did That will only come if the Tamil Nadu government conducts its own survey under the Indian Statistical Act, 2008 ”

“Though the Union government has decided, our man has not decided yet,” Anbumani said, taking a dig at Chief Minister MK Stalin He slammed Stalin for “misleading the Assembly” by claiming that the state lacked the authority to conduct a caste survey “ H o w

Andhra and Odisha able to do it then?

Is Tamil Nadu in China or Japan?” he asked, drawing loud cheers from the crowd

Stalin’s current stance a betrayal and accused him of lying in Assembly He asked how during the earlier regimes,

h M G R

Karunanidhi were able to undertake caste-based data collection “If that is so, how did your father conduct the survey? How did MGR initiate doorto-door enumeration?”

Questioning the ideological stance of the ruling party, Anbumani said,

Missing Padma Shri scientist's body found dead in Cauvery river

S RI RA N GA P A T NA : Former di recto r general o f the Indian Council of A gricultural Research (ICA R) and Padm a Shri award ee Dr Subbanna Ayyappan was found dead under m ysterious circum stances The police were notified on Saturday, May 10, after a body was spotted in the Cauvery Riv er near Sai Ashram in Srirang ap atna

Dr Ayyappan, who lived in Mysuru with his wife, was reported missing on May 7 On Sunday evening, authorities were alerted after the body was identified as his His scooter was also found abandoned on the riverbank, further deepening the mystery surrounding his death The Srirangapatna Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to his death

Widely acknowledged as a principal architect of India’s ‘Blue Revolution’, Dr Ayyappan created new and better ways to farm fish that changed how all of India

NORTH-EAST Meghalaya deputy

CM denies links to militant group

by

Vanniyar community comes up to 18%

It is not just enough to talk about

qualified to speak about Social Justice The Chief Minister is lying that he

Anbumani lashed out at the DMK government and the chief minister

Punjab BJP chief seeks special economic package

CH AN DI GA R H: Punja b BJP chie f Sunil Jakha r said t he Cen tr e should con side r gr ant ing t he stat e a spe cia l cat egor y stat us d ue to “ e con omic con st rain ts” it fa ce d on account of bor derin g Pak ist an

Jakhar said Punjab suffered economic losses due to its strategic location over the years and required a special economic package, a demand that was raised during an all-party meeting in Chandigarh on Saturday The meeting was chaired by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and attended by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, along with representatives of all political outfits in the state

After meeting victims of the Ferozepur drone attack at Ludhiana’s Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, he said a collective action was required to get a special package from the Centre

He said due to its location, the state faced several restrictions, including disruption in cross-border trade, which proved nonconducive for overall economic development of Punjab Jakhar said a special category status, like the one given to neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, would ensure long-term economic growth

Jakhar added that it was important to get a “structured and s u s t a i

heightened security risks The state BJP chief also said Punjab’s industry, agriculture and border communities had “endured unique hardships owing to its proximity with Pakistan ”

Bengal governor gives SC reasons for not appointing VCs

NEW D EL HI : The conflict between the West Bengal go vernment and Gov ernor Ananda Bo se continu es o ver th e appointm ent of university v ice-ch ancellors (V Cs) A d iv ision bench of the Su preme C ourt led by Ju stice S urya Kant h eard the matter last week

During the hearing, a report b y t h

Justice of India Uday Umesh Lalit, was submitted Last year, the apex

c o u r t h a d d

productivity across both coastal and inland regions In recognition of these far-reaching contributions, he was conferred the Padma Shri in 2022

Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka, Ayyappan began his distinguished career after completing a Bachelor of F

Fisheries Science (MFSc) in 1977 from Mangaluru He later earned a PhD in 1998 from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru

Punjab chief secy, DGP face contempt for defying HC order

C HA ND IGA R H: Punjab and Haryana HC issued contem pt notices to P unjab ch ief secretary and DGP fo r d efying its earlier orders on non-interference in the functioning of the Bh akra Beas Management Bo ard (BBM B) “Prima facie, it is a case of violation of our orders Let Punjab file a reply If you do not permit the BBMB chairman to visit his installation, how will he manage day-to-day affairs of the board?” observed Chief Justice Sheel Nagu, part of a two-judge division bench The case stems from AAP-governed Punjab’s refusal to comply with a BBMB directive to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water to BJP-governed Haryana and the alleged confinement of board’s chairman by protesters Punjab govt counsel Gurminder Singh urged HC not to issue the notice, warning it could disturb law and order due to surcharged public sentiment But the bench noted it was only seeking a response, not ordering imprisonment

When asked if the state would comply with HC’s May 6 order, Singh said he could not give an undertaking without instructions The c

challenged the order BBMB’s counsel submitted an affidavit by board chairman Manoj Tripathi, claiming he and his team were prevented

videographic evidence showing non-compliance of the May 6 directive

SC dismisses plea for SIT probe into Murshidabad violence

formation of a committee for the appointment of VCs in West Bengal universities The committee was tasked with shortlisting names and sending them to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who would then forward her chosen names to the Governor for approval In case of disagreement, the Supreme Court would intervene The Supreme Court stated that further directions will be issued after reviewing the contents of the report with the next hearing in the case scheduled for May 15 In a previous hearing, the state government, represented by senior advocate Jaideep Gupta, urged for

N E W D ELH I : Th e Su preme Co urt o n Tu esday dism iss ed a p etition requesting th e formation o f a Sp ecial Investigation Team (SIT) to p robe recent co mmunal vio lence in Wes t Bengal's Mu rshidabad district, which o ccu rred du ring p rotes ts agains t th e Waqf (Amendment) Ac t

A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh took a firm stance against the petitioner for approaching the apex court directly, bypassing the Calcutta High Court, reported Bar and Bench

“Why don't you go to the high court - a Constitutional Court having powers better than the Supreme Court under Article 32? Filing direct writ petitions to the Supreme Court amounts to demeaning the high court If it was a matter which involved 7-8 States, then we can understand but (this is not one such case)," the Court remarked

The top court reiterated its concern over the increasing tendency of litigants to bypass lower courts and file writ petitions before the Supreme Court

“This trend of filing direct writ petitions in the Supreme Court will be dealt with seriously,” Justice Kant warned

Although the petition was dismissed, the Court granted the petitioner the liberty to seek appropriate relief before the Calcutta high court

In a previous instance related to the same incident, the Court had cautioned advocate Shashank Shekhar Jha about the language used in his pleadings, advising him to exercise greater care and responsibility

Hynniewtrep National Liberation C ouncil ( HNLC ) that h e h ad prev iously p rov ided financial aid to the o rganisation Responding to the accusations, Dhar described the claims as completely untrue and politically charged Speaking to the media upon his return to the state, Dhar suggested the timing and nature of the allegations were part of a broader political agenda aimed at damaging his reputation “These statements seem orchestrated to malign my image The more people attempt to discredit me, the more I believe divine blessings will guide me, my party, and the government,” he said While acknowledging calls for an investigation, Dhar expressed caution about legitimizing accusations from outlawed groups “If we begin investigating every claim made by banned organizations, how will the government maintain focus on governance?” he questioned Reacting to demands from opposition parties for his dismissal from the cabinet, Dhar dismissed the allegations as unfounded and reiterated his commitment to public service

BJP SWEEPS ASSAM PANCHAYAT POLLS, CONG RETAINS MOTIRCHAR

The BJP has made a resounding statement in Assam’s panchayat elections, securing victories across key districts including Jorhat, Biswanath, and Morigaon While the Congress faced setbacks in most regions, it managed to hold its ground in Motirchar, Dhubri, offering the party a rare but significant consolation win In Jorhat, a BJP stronghold the party clinched 15 out of 16 Zila Parishad seats with its ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) securing the remaining seat At the Anchalik Panchayat level the BJP won 72 out of 86 seats leaving AGP with 10 Congress with a modest 3 and one seat going to an Independent candidate This performance comes despite Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi s recent Lok Sabha victory from Jorhat signaling the BJP s firm grip at the grassroots Biswanath district mirrored this trend, where BJP swept all 12 Zila Parishad seats and secured 59 of 73 Anchalik Panchayat seats AGP took 4 seats, while Congress managed to win just 3 BJP leaders attributed their success to “peoplecentric policies” and effective “doorstep governance ” However, the Congress found reason to cheer in Dhubri district, where its candidate won the Motirchar Zilla Parishad seat by a margin of 5,692 votes, providing a moraleboosting moment for the party amid an otherwise challenging poll outing

ALARM OVER CENSUS IRREGULARITIES IN MANIPUR

A group of 15 political party representatives met the Manipur governor at Raj Bhavan in Imphal to flag serious concerns over irregularities in the ongoing census process The delegation submitted a memorandum and demanded immediate attention to issues related to the delimitation exercise, which they claim could have long-term political and social consequences if left unaddressed Parties present included the National People s Party (NPP), Janata Dal (United), CPI (M), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) both factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) Republican Party of India (Athawale) Shiv Sena (UBT) Manipur People's Party (MPP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) among others During the discussion, party members stressed the importance of transparency and fairness in the census process, warning that any manipulation or oversight could distort representation in future governance structures The meeting was also attended by Sumant Singh, secretary to the governor

Ananda Bose

President sanctions Lalu's prosecution in ‘land-for-jobs’ scam

Paving the way for f ast-track

t rial in the railways jobs-forl and m oney l aundering c ase, Pres ident Droupadi M urm u

g ave s anc tion to pr ose cute

R JD

c hi ef a n d f or m e

m inis ter Lal u Prasad Yadav

il

ED, which is investigating the case, had filed two

p r o s e c u t i o n c o m p

n t s (chargesheets) on Jan 8 and Aug 6, 2024, accusing Lalu and associates of indulging in

g alleged bribes in the form of lands from candidates who were offered jobs in the railways during 2004-09 when he was the minister

Sources said that a special court in Delhi has already taken cognisance of both the

from the President will allow for day-to-day hearing of the

trial proceedings in the special court for MPs and MLAs Those accused in the two c

, include his wife Rabri Devi, son Tejashwi Yadav, daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav and aide Amit Katyal, and two associated companies ED’s money laundering probe is based on an FIR by CBI, which has already filed

case The sanction from the President will expedite trial of the accused in both CBI and ED cases simultaneously

Lalu, the then railways minister, indulged in corruption for appointment of Group D

Railways during 2004-2009

“The candidates or their family members were told to transfer land as a bribe in return for jobs in the rail-

were directly/indirectly, registered in the name of family members of Lalu Yadav,” CBI had said in its FIR, a charge validated by ED’s own money

money trail of proceeds of crime

Monsoon likely to hit Kerala 5 days ahead of June 1 onset date

M o n so on is l ik e l y t o hi t Ker ala on May 27, five days e arl ie r than it s normal onset d a t e o f J un e 1 , In d i a

Me teor ological D epa rtme nt ( IMD ) sa id T his ma k e s it possibl e to b egin the Kha rif (summe r sown) crops sowing opera tion earl y and t he forecast will a lso hel ps farmers to pr epare themsel ves for the same

The advance of monsoon over the Indian mainland is m a r k e d b y i t s o n s e t o v e r Kerala and is an important indicator characterising the transition from the hot and dry season to the rainy sea-

s o n T h e s o u t h w e s t ( s u mmer) monsoon normally sets

in over Kerala on June 1 with a standard deviation of about seven days and covers the entire country by July 8

This year, the southwest monsoon is likely to set over Kerala on May 27 with a model error of ± 4 days,” said the IMD, which uses six predictors in the models to make the onset forecast IMD has been issuing

for the date of monsoon onset over Kerala

An indigenously devel-

statistical model with a model error of ± 4

IMD’s operational forecasts

onset over Kerala during the past 20 years (2005-2024) were proved to be correct,

actual onset (June 5) crossed

+/4days from the forecast date (May 30)

Six predictors used by it in the models include minim u m t

p e r a t u r e s o v e r north-west India; pre-mons o o n r a i n f a l l p e a k o v e r south Peninsula; mean sea level pressure over subtropical NW Pacific Ocean; outgoing long-wave radiation ( O L R ) o v e r S o u t h C h i n a

S e a ; l o w e r t r o p o s p h e r i c zonal wind over northeast I n d i a n O c e a n ; a n d u p p e r t r o p o s p h e r i c z o n a l w i n d over Indonesia region IMD last month predicted ‘above normal’ monsoon rainfall over the country as a whole this year during the u p c o m i n g r a i n y s e a s o n (June-Sept)

India’s diamond industry pins hope on PM Modi to save them from Trump tariff

T h e d i am o nd i nd u s try in

S urat w as strug g ling ev en

b ef o re D o nal d T ru m p ’ s t rad e w a r d eep e ne d i ts w oes Kalpesh M angu kiya, the owner of K ushal Gem s, said that they were forced to lay off a quarter o f staff as

t h e rev enu e m or e th an

h alved due in part to west-

e rn sa nc ti o ns o n Ru s si an

d iam ond s E bbing d emand from th e US and C hina, the w or ld ’ s b i g g es t d i am o n d m arkets, amid com petition

f ro m ch e ap er la b- g ro w n g em s h as b ee n a f u rth e r com plication

N o w T r u m p ’ s 1 0 p e r cent tariff on imports, and the potential for an additional levy on India, which

processes 90 per cent of the world’s diamonds, threaten greater turmoil - unless a deal can be struck between New Delhi and Washington

“The tariffs will affect us

a n d d e m a n d w i l l c o m e down,” Mangukiya said The gloomy outlook reflects the deep crisis in India’s vast diamond processing indus-

t r y - o n e o f I n d i a ' s t o p export sectors

Exports of cut and pol-

i s h e d d i a m o n d s , w h i c h account for almost half of I n d i a ’ s g e m a n d j e w e l l e r y shipments, have fallen 17 per cent on an annual basis to just over $13bn in the year to March, according to Gems a n d J e w e l l e r y E x p o r t

C o m ed ia n , ar ti s t, l i te ra li s t a n

p h i la n th r o p i s t

bio graphy

Extraordinary S to

of an Ordinary Man’ was launch ed at g litt eri ng event s in Ah me daba d and Rajkot Hundreds of literalists, bo ok lovers and di gnitaries attended th e fu nction at bo th th e locations Trivedi who hails from a small town of Surendranagar began his c

photocopy shop and went

$82bn industry has come to a halt due to Trump’s polic i e s , w

centre of Antwerp down to about one-seventh of usual levels

The tariffs from the US, destination for about a third o f I n d i a n p r o c e s s e d d i amonds, are “ one more blow to the sector”, said Ujjwal Patel, associate director at Indian ratings and analytics group CareEdge W h i l e t h e p r e c i s e i m p

industry was “not clear”, the uncertainty had been suffi-

cient to paralyse the Indian trade, he added An estimated 50,000 artisans have lost t h e i r j o b s i n t h e p a s t 1 2 months and more than 60 have died by suicide as many s t r u g g l e d w i t h m o u n t i n g debts

India’s diamond industry hopes that PM Narendra Modi can cut a trade deal with Trump due to his good r e l a t i o n s w i t h t h e U S President Many in India’s d i a m o n d i n d u s t r y n o w r e a l

dependent on the US They are now looking to open up business in other markets, i

India itself

Musk’s Starlink gets Letter of Intent for satcom licence

E lo n Musk’s satellite comm u n i ca ti o ns ve nt u re

S tarlink has been issued a Letter of Intent (LOI) for a satcom licence Th e develo p me n t c o m es a t a t i me when the go vt is negotiating a bilateral trade agreement with the US to ward off the T ru m p a dm i ni s t ra ti o n ’ s reciprocal tariffs

Starlink had been waiting for an approval of its a p p l i c a t i o n f o r a G l o b a l M o b i l e P e r s o n a l

Communication by Satellite licence from DoT for several y e a r s “ T h e c o m p a n y

agreed to follow India’s laws a

, interception and having a command and control cent r e h

GMPCS licence to the company, ” top sources said The d

PM Narendra Modi’s recent c

meeting commerce minister

Piyush Goyal last month

“We are confident that the start of satellite commu-

leading technology provider such as Starlink, will drive

Indian telecom sector and will be beneficial for millions of internet consumers

said

bonanza for Musk, who is also close to launching his electric Tesla cars in India this year The company has already taken up space for s

Delhi and Mumbai It will import cars in the beginning, with plans to set up a local factory later After getting a GMPCS licence, Starlink will need

including from the department of space, before formally taking orders and to launch operations

Pawar Sr hints at the possibility of NCP factions reuniting

NCP (S P) chief S harad Pawar set political circles bu zzing wh en he hinted at the possibility of two NC P factions reuniting in the future A fter P aw ar ’ s statem ent, both cam ps of NCP sent out p ositive signals about possibility of a reu nion

During an informal chat with the media, Pawar said a section of his party was in favour of joining hands with the Ajit Pawar-led NCP As far as a decision on reunion goes, the politician said he was not “actively involved in taking such decisions ”

Pawar said his daughter Supriya Sule, also NCP (SP)’s working president, would have to sit and discuss the matter with her cousin, Ajit Pawar “If the reunion happens, it should not surprise others,” Sharad Pawar said

Ever since NCP split on July 2, 2023, both factions were vocal against each other During last year ’ s LS and assembly elections, both NCP factions not only fielded candidates against each other but also got engaged in the fiercest poll campaigns

A significant change was, however, noticed after assembly polls when the Ajit faction made substantial gains by winning 41 of 59 seats it contested Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who avoided sharing stage with Sharad Pawar at events before polls, was seen visiting his uncle’s Delhi residence to wish him on his birthday Recently, in a span of less than a month, both Sharad and Ajit attended three-four events together One of these was the engagement ceremony of Ajit Pawar’s younger son, Jay, in Pune With Sharad Pawar’s hint of a possible reunion, the future of MVA - the alliance of NCP (SP), Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) - now hangs in balance The NCP (SP) chief has remained the guiding force for MVA in the state He was also the key campaigner for the opposition alliance in both the Lok Sabha and assembly polls Now, the MVA’s future appears uncertain amid the possibility of Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) going with Ajit Pawar’s NCP and also Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray’s signal to MNS chief and cousin Raj Thackeray for a reunion

himself has written 82 books and h a d p e

shows in over 20 countries, including over 1,000 show in US alone O n

Bhagyesh Jha, Tushar Shukla and RJ Devki In Rajkot it was launched by dignitaries that included Jay

Thakkar, Subhash Bhatt and RJ Devaki Trivedi, 58, is one of the only Gujarati literalist whose English biography has been published He

podcast ‘Mann Ki Baat ’ The book has been authored by Nischal Sanghavi The book was launched at Ahmedabad’s Tagore Hall by Gujarat’s eminent literal-

pledged that all his future income would be contributed for health and education purposes with a minimum commitment of pound 1 million He has already surpassed that commitment by contributing £1 2mn in last 8 years He has been honoured with Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akadami Award for his contributions

Lalu Prasad Yadav

L-R: Ilesh Khakhkhar, Nischal Sanghavi, Vishnubhai Dave, Jagdish Trivedi, RJ Devki, Sharad Thakkar, Subhash Bhatt, Sairam Dave, Jay Vasavda

India, New Zealand aim to conclude free trade deal this year

In dia an d Ne w Ze aland have

r e a ff i r m e d t h e i r c o m m on

v i si on a n d m u t ua l u n d e

st and in g to wor k towar ds a futur e-re ady fra mewor k and

c o n cl u

a gre eme nt (FTA) t his y ear

In a major step towards e x p

negotiations for the India–New Zealand FTA conclud-

Delhi The next round will be held in July 2025

n d reflects a steadfast commitment to enhance economic p a r t n e r s h i p s a l i g n e d w i t h national priorities and global aspirations,” the Commerce Ministry said in a statement

The first round followed a series of virtual discussions held between both partners which laid the groundwork for the in-person meeting

were held across

of F

Goods and Services, Trade

nomic co-operation

This engagement highlights the strategic importance both partners attach to building a mutually beneficial, balanced and a fair trade

ment builds on the shared commitment to deepen eco-

Narendra Modi during the

visit of Christopher Luxon,

Zealand, in March

The FTA was launched during the meeting between P

and Todd McClay, Minister for Trade and Investment,

Zealand on March 16

Total merchandise trade between the two countries has reached $1 3 billion in financial year 2024–25, registering a strong growth of 48 6 per cent over the previous financial year

Ax-4 mission with India’s Shukla pushed back to June

Axio m-4 sp ac e miss io n (Ax4), to be p ilo ted by India’s Grou p C aptain Shu bh anshu Shu kla , h as been del ayed du e to a “minor” tech nical glitch by a w eek

On April 29, Axiom and Nasa space operations had announced Ax-4 would lift

o f f f r o m K e n n e d y S p a c e

C e n t r e i n F l o r i d a a r o u n d 10 33 pm IST on May 29 “The launch is expected to happen in early June There is nothing really ‘concerning’ now, ”

a source said The source did not specify if the glitch was detected in launch vehicle or the spacecraft However, Isro chairman V Narayanan expressed “full confidence” in both, describing the launch vehicle as one of the “most reliable” Ax-4 will lift off aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, a reusable s p a c e c a p s u l e d e s i g n e d f o r h u m a n s p a c e f l i g h t , w h i c h will be launched by Falcon-9 l a u n c h v e h i c l e - S p a c e X ’ s

w o r k h o r s e k n o w n f o r i t s reusable first stage The Ax-4

c r e w - S h u k l a , U S ’ s P e g g y Whitson, the mission com-

m a n d e r ,

from European Space Agency ( E S A ) S

s

Tibor Kapu - will spend up to 14 days at orbiting laborato-

r y S h u k l a w i l l b e t h e f i r s t Indian astronaut to go to ISS, a n d s e c o n d a f t e r W i n g

C o m m a n d e r ( r e t d ) R a k e s h Sharma to go to space

Delhi HC closes Rooh Afza defamation case against Ramdev

The Del hi high court close d

a d e fa m a t io n c a se a g a in st Yoga Guru R amdev, a ccepting a written under taking by him t ha t he woul d n ot make

a n y fu r t he r d isp a r a g i n g r emarks against Ha mda rd’s R ooh Afza

Justice Amit Bansal said the statements of Ramdev and Patanjali Foods Ltd in their affidavits were binding on them and decreed the suit in favour of Hamdard

T h e H C h a d e a r l i e r ordered removal of controversial online content posted b y R a m d e v a n d h i s f i r m

Patanjali, and asked for the undertaking that such slanderous remarks would not be repeated

H a m d a r d h a d s u e d Ramdev and Patanjali Foods Ltd, saying the yoga guru had falsely claimed that earnings from Hamdard’s Rooh Afza were used to build madrasas and mosques as part of a “ s h a r b

i h a d ” T

u r t h a d t e r m e d t h e r e m a r k s indefensible and said they “shook its conscience ”

Last month, the HC had s

m Ramdev and Patanjali that

they would not issue such

media posts and disparaging videos/ads against products

those of Hamdard

Ramdev had promised to c o m p l y B u t H a m d a r d ’

Ramdev had not taken down

videos, only made it private

On May 1, the HC had warned Ramdev of contempt

a c t i o n H i s l a w y e r t h e n pledged to have the objec-

t i o n a b l e c o n t e n t d e l e t e d within 24 hours

6 die as chopper with Char Dham pilgrims crashes near Gangotri

Six people die d and an other per son s ustai ned criti cal in juri es when a heli copter fe rryin g pass eng ers to the Gan got ri s hr in e lo st a ltitu de a n d plu ng ed i n to a gor ge n ea r Gan gna ni vi llage in Utta rkas hi d istri ct

o f Ga r h w a l Hi ma l a y a s Among the de ad were f ive pilg rims an d the pilot The only survi vor, a pas se nger from A ndhra Prad esh, w as a i r l i f t e d t o A I I MS Rish ikes h in cri tical condition

A m o n g t h e d e a d w a s Vedavathi Kumari, 48, sister o f A n a n t a p u r T D P M P Ambica G Lakshminarayana

H e r h u s b a n d , M a k t u r Bhaskar, 51, who was beside h e r w h e n t h e h e l i c o p t e r went down, is battling for l i f

deceased passenger, Vijaya R

Pradesh who had been

Gardens, Powai, and working as a yoga teacher, was travelling with the couple as part of the Char Dham pilgrimage O t h e r v i c t i m s w e r e

identified as Dr Kala Soni, 61, and Ruchi Agarwal, 56, both residents of Powai, M

79, originally from Bareilly, who had been staying with her daughter The aircraft

soned flyer from Gujarat

CJI urges Centre to initiate steps to oust Justice Varma

C JI Sanjiv Khanna is understo od to have recomm ended to th e Centre to initiate a m o ti o n i n P arli am e nt f o r rem oval of A llah abad HC’s J u s ti ce Y as h w a nt V arm a, w h o re fu s ed t o r es i g n d e sp i t e a j u d i c ia l i nq u ir y c o rro b o rat i ng th e fi nd i ng that huge am ount of cash was found at h is official residence in Delh i on M arch 14 S C o f f i c i a l l y s a i d t h a t the CJI, in line with the inhouse procedure, has written to President Murmu and PM Modi “enclosing therewith a copy of the threemember committee report dated May 3 along with the letter/response dated May 6 r e c e i v e d f r o m J u s t i c e Varma ”

On CJI’s recommendation, the Centre will have to i n i t i a t e a m o t i o n f o r removal of Varma in either Lok Sabha (minimum 150 MPs to sign) or Rajya Sabha (50 MPs) It would then be open for the LS speaker or the RS chairman to decide whether the motion is to be admitted Once it is admitted, the speaker or chairman

w o u l d c o n s t i t u t e a t h r e e m e m b e r c o m m i t t e e c o mprising an SC judge, an HC chief justice and a disting u i s h e d j u r i s t T h e p a n e l will frame charges against the judge for investigation and the judge will have an o p p o r t u n i t y t o r e f u t e t h e evidence

After a formal trial, the committee will give a report t o t h e H o u s e c o n c e r n e d , which, if it finds the judge guilty, will debate the matter in the two Houses The judge can be removed only after each House with twothirds of members present a n d v o t i n g s u p p o r t t h e motion

Justice Varm a ’ s secretary, staff under suspicion

A h i g h - l e v e l j u d i c i a l panel, inquiring into the discovery of a huge amount of cash at the New Delhi official residence of HC judge Yashwant Varma on March 14 night, in its report to CJI Sanjiv Khanna has suspected the judge’s personal staff for t h e m y s t e r i o u s d i s a p p e a rance of the cash

The inquiry panel comprising Punjab and Haryana

c h i e f j u s t i c e S h e e l N a d u , Himachal Pradesh CJ G S Sandhawalia and Karnataka HC’s Justice Anu Sivaraman recorded the statements of the judge’s private secretary and staff, security personnel posted at his residence as well as fire and police personnel on the fire incident

a t t h e T u g h l a q C r e s c e n t bungalow, the official resid e n c e o f t h e n D e l h i H C judge Varma

All personnel among the f i r s t r e s p o n d e r s w e r e unequivocal that they made videos of burning cash as w e l l a s s a c k s o f c a s h

IAS, IPS, diplomats’ bodies slam online attack on foreign secy Misri, his family

Several asso ciatio ns of civil s ervants, po l itic ians and p ro min ent c itiz ens have co me ou t in su ppo rt o f I ndia's foreign secretary Vikram Misri and slam med th e vicio us onl ine attac k which was unleashed o n the s enior bu reaucrat after he annou nc ed the paus e in I ndia- Pakistan h ostilities o n Saturday

The trolling prompted the 1989batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer to “lock” his X account Misri’s family members also faced trolling on social media The IAS Association said it stands in solidarity with Misri a n

commitment to uphold the dignity of public service “Unwarranted personal attacks on civil servants performing their duties with integrity are deeply regrettable,” it said “This is appalling and completely unacceptable He is an outstanding

record Strict action needs to be taken

Association of Indian Diplomats said

assaults on civil servants committed

to their duties are absolutely intolerable,” Indian Police Service Association said “We commend his unwavering service to the nation and reaffirm our resolute commitment to safeguarding the dignity of public service ” Politicians cutting across party lines also came out in support of Misri “It is unacceptable to target our professional diplomats and civil servants - those who work dedicatedly to serve the nation,” Congress politician Sachin Pilot said Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi said Misri is a decent and hardwork-

ing diplomat working tirelessly for the country “Our civil servants work under the Executive and this must be remembered and they shouldn’t be blamed for the decisions taken by the Executive/or any political leadership r

Akhilesh Yadav said such incidents break the morale of honest officers, adding “ some anti-social criminal elements are openly crossing all limits of abusive language against the officer and his family but neither BJP govt nor any of its ministers is coming forward to protect his honour ”

untouched by the leaping flames of the fire that broke out at the storeroom within t h e j u d g e ’ s r e s i d e n t i a l premises and left the place without seizing any of the c a s h , e i t h e r b u r n t o r unburnt

Delhi HC Chief Justice D K U p a d h y a y , o n b e i n g informed about the incident by the Delhi Police commiss i o n e r h a d i n s t r u c t

v i s i t

s t i c e V a r m a ’ s r e s idence and inspect the place of fire On reaching the resid e n c e , h e w a s t a k e n t o Justice Varma by the latter’s private secretary Justice Varma took the CJ’s secretary to the room, which was adjacent to the judge’s official residence He f o u n d t h a t t h o u g h b u r n t articles and debris were in the room, there was no sign o f a n y c

unburnt

T

e l recorded that the fire service was alerted by police, who got the first call about the incident at the judge’s residence on March 14 They reached the spot at 11 43pm, doused the fire and left the scene at 1 56 am on March 15 The panel also found that s h o

videographed the incident, also left the house, leaving behind the cash as it were in the room S

posted at the judge’s residence informed the panel that Justice Varma’s private secretary and personal staff stayed back The panel said it is prima facie of the opini o n t

s h d i s a ppeared from the room in the early hours of March 15 and that the fire scene was c l e

unburnt notes, which could not have been done with-

n d involvement of the judge’s private secretary and personal staff

Todd McClay & Piyush Goyal

Australian man's strange condition baffles doctors

A 22-year-old man in Australia has been suffering from a mystery illness for the past five years, where he cannot feel heat or cold on his hands and feet, baffling the doctors Aidan McManus was only 17 and in the final year of his high school when he began losing some of the sensation in his feet His mother, Angela McManus, said that he started complaining about feeling tingly and numb in his feet In the initial diagnosis, the doctor said it was fluid retention and gave him some medicine However, the medicine proved ineffective as Aidan started having difficulty walking As the condition worsened, he was referred to a neurologist who ran a series of tests on him to find the underlying cause He was ultimately diagnosed with a generalised nerve disorder - axonal peripheral neuropathy - which disrupts how nerve cells transmit signals throughout the body As per McManus, when her son picks up something hot, he feels cold, and when he holds something cold, he gets a burning sensation "For those obvious reasons, he can't cook He's got to be very careful When I do give him meals I've got to say, 'It's really hot, or it's really cold' His ability to walk, as well as his balance and co-ordination had all been affected," she added

Woman stunned after HR asks 'strange' question

A woman recently shared a troubling experience where a recruiter asked a strange question during the job interview, which left her stunned Taking to Reddit, the female employee shared that she was appearing for a final-round job interview for a senior d

management interviews went incredibly well," she wrote in the Reddit post titled: "HR asked me the strangest illegal question at the end of my interview " The woman claimed that the interview was going very well until the HR wrapped it up with the surprising question that left her uneasy "Could you tell me if you're planning to have children in the next few years?" the HR director asked The techie said she was taken aback by the question "After an awkward pause, I asked her to repeat the question, thinking I must have misheard Nope - she actually doubled down and said, 'We just want to know about your family planning situation for our team planning purposes " The woman revealed that she politely responded that she wasn't comfortable answering a question that was both inappropriate and illegal in most hiring contexts "The entire positive vibe of the interview immediately evaporated I thanked her for her time but mentioned that I had concerns about a company culture where such questions were considered acceptable, she added Man takes ‘saat phere’ carrying ailing bride in arms

A hospital OPD in MP’s Rajgarh district turned into an impromptu wedding venue Since the bride was unwell and couldn’t walk, the groom carried her in his arms for the ‘saat phere ’ Aditya Singh and Nandini Solanki had decided to marry on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya, but she fell seriously ill around a week ago and was admitted to a hospital Her health slowly improved, but doctors advised strict bed rest, making it impossible for her to attend a traditional wedding With the next suitable muhurta falling two years later, both families decided to hold the wedding ceremony in the hospital itself The management agreed, and the OPD was transformed into a wedding venue, complete with decorations The groom, Aditya, arrived with his baraat, but without ‘band and baaja’ so as not to disturb the patients At 1 am the wedding rituals began When the time came for the 'saat phere,’ Aditya carried Nandini in his arms Relatives and guests showered flower petals on the smiling couple

How man escapes polar bear as it charges at him

A man in Norway's Svalbard archipelago narrowly escaped a polar bear attack by escaping on a snowmobile The attack took place when the man attempted to scare the polar bear away by firing a warning shot, but it charged towards him He then dropped his rifle and sprinted to a nearby snowmobile, narrowly escaping as the bear gave chase, before speeding to safety The bear eventually gave up and sat in the snow After escaping on the snowmobile, the man took further shelter in a pickup truck Meanwhile, the polar bear went underneath the stilted hotel and refused to leave until it had eaten snacks from one of the snowmobiles, despite hotel staff trying to scare it away "Polar bears attack extremely quickly without warning Adult polar bears vary in size from [440 to 1,763 pounds] Humans are considered alien in the polar bear habitat, and a polar bear may see us as potential prey The polar bear is incredibly strong and even cubs weighing under [220 pounds] can be extremely aggressive and dangerous", a website warned

A Kannadiga man's bitter experience while hunting house

A Bengaluru man looking to rent a property was allegedly discriminated against by the owner, who said she wouldn't give it to a Kannadiga In a detailed post on Reddit, the man revealed the owner who posted the listing asked for his name when he called her to inquire about the flat's availability He said the woman said she didn't want to rent it to someone from Karnataka and immediately hung up the phone He wrote, "So today I was flat hunting and came across a listing that seemed decent The surname of the lady who posted it suggested she was likely from Jharkhand or West Bengal I gave her a call to ask about the availability " He said the first question was, "Where are you from? Did you see the rent?" He replied, "I'm born and raised in Bengaluru) I'm a Kannadiga " "Without missing a beat, she rudely said, 'I'm not looking to rent it out to Kannadigas,' and hung up on my face before I could even respond," the man said After hearing this, he said he got extremely angry and tried calling her back First, the woman didn t pick up her call and then blocked his number The man was shocked to witness this in his own city

British man walks from UK to Vietnam

A British adventurer has embarked on an epic solo trek from the UK to Vietnam, covering over 15,000 km across 23 countries on foot, with only two ferry rides His motivation is to show that ordinary people can achieve remarkable things and experience the adventure of a lifetime Luke Daekin embarked on his remarkable journey on September 16, 2024, starting from Stratford-upon-Avon He traversed through France, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece With Turkey on the horizon, he anticipated spending around two months completing this leg of his epic adventure After Turkey, he'll enter Georgia and Azerbaijan, then take a ferry across the Caspian Sea to Kazakhstan The Central Asian leg poses significant challenges, including vast deserts, limited amenities, and harsh weather conditions, making access to necessities like food, water, and shelter scarce

Ultimate guide to Snorkelling on the UK coast

TheBritish coastline offers a rich marine ecosystem, shaped by high tidal ranges and nutrient-rich currents Snorkelling here connects you to diverse species and beautiful landscapes, including sea lochs, bays, shipwrecks, kelp forests, sandy seabeds, and rocky reefs You might encounter sharks, seals, scorpionfish, octopus, and cuttlefish.

When snorkelling, prioritise both your safety and the protection of marine life Follow the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs wildlife code, avoid disturbing habitats, and dispose of litter properly Use eco-friendly products like marine-safe sun-

marine creatures, particularly sensitive species such as seals and seahorses, by keeping a safe distance and avoiding disturbance H

snorkelling

Treyarnon tidal pool, Cornwall Treyarnon, near Padstow, is ideal for a family beach day with the added fun of rock pooling or snorkelling Its large tidal pool is shallow and safe, making it perfect for kids and beginners to explore marine life with ease Mostly natural, the pool is bordered by rocky walls and a small concrete edge While the beach gets busy in summer, it’s well-served, often with an ice-cream van on hand for a sweet post-snorkel treat Chesil Cove, Dorset Chesil Beach, an 18-mile (29km) shingle tombolo shaped over 7,000 years, is exposed to strong southern and western winds, leading to

a b l

u n d e r w a t e r v

s i b i l i t y A t i t s s o u t h e r n t i p l i e s C h e s i l C o v e , a n i d e a l

snorkelling spot on calm days The best area is at the cove ’ s far south, where small pebbles transition into larger rocks and seaweed-covered boulders Here, snorkelers might spot wrasse, bass, sand eels, and the striking john dory Cuttlefish, squid, and octopus also occasionally glide through, so stay alert for these elusive sea creatures

Eastbourne pier, East Sussex

Originally built in the late 19th century and restored after a 2014 fire, Eastbourne Pier o f f e r s a u

weather While the nearby shingle beaches are too turbulent for much marine life, the pier’s pilings provide a stable base for barnacle-cov-

starfish, crabs, and dog whelks The presence of anglers hints at an active fish population, with sand eels and even bass making appearances Just watch out for fishing lines and consider a sunset swim for a truly atmospheric experience

Charlie’s Garden, Northumberland

Charlie’s Garden, a sandstone sea stack in C

Dockwray, who once cultivated a garden there in the mid-19th century A great spot for rock pooling at low tide, the bay’s shallow waters teem with seaweeds, barnacles, limpets, gobies, and blennies Seals occasionally visit, offering a delightful sight While water visibility can be cloudy after storms, on sunny days it’s a perfect location to explore east-coast marine life

High Shore Beach, Aberdeenshire

Macduff offers a perfect outing for marine life enthusiasts, featuring the recently refurbished Macduff Marine Aquarium and High Shore Beach The beach is part of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s snorkel trail Start by visiting the aquarium to learn about the Moray Firth’s underwater habitats, then head out to explore the rocky reefs and kelp-filled gullies Look for velvet swimming crabs, starfish, and other marine life among the rocks and seabed Rockham Bay, Devon Rockham Bay offers a peaceful retreat away from Devon's busy tourist spots, showcasing the striking stratified rock formations of the north Devon coastline The wreckage of the SS Collier, a steamer ship sunk in 1914, can be found among the intertidal rocks, where rusted metal remnants are visible at low tide This is also the perfect time to explore tidal pools teeming with marine life Snorkelling reveals kelp-covered reefs, and you may spot small spotted cat sharks resting on the sandy seabed The nearest car park is in Mortehoe

Britons flocking to ‘destination dupes’ over Mediterranean hotspots

Briton s ’ a ffe ct ion for Medit err an ean be aches ma y be e ndurin g, but th e late st tr end s r ev eal a shift t oward alt er nat ive de stina tions Social me dia's “dest in at ion dupe s ” cr aze is drivin g t r a ve lle r s t o swa p we ll-k n o wn sp ot s li ke Má lag a a n d Ben idor m for lesse r-e xp lor e d ge ms in the Balkan s I n 2 0 2 4 , U K f l i g h t s t o B o s n i a a n d Herzegovina surged by 284% compared to the previous year, while trips to Montenegro grew by 164% Meanwhile, Albania, often referred to as "the new Croatia," saw a 61% i n c r e a s e i n v i s i t o r s , a c c o r d i n g t o C i v i l Aviation Authority (CAA) data

Experts attribute the growing interest in l e s s e r - k n o w n d e s t i n a t i o n s t o i n f l u e n c e r s promoting “destination dupes” – budgetfriendly alternatives to popular spots that offer similar Insta-worthy scenery C A A d a t a , a n a l y s e d b y M a n c h e s t e r

A i r p o r t s G r o u p , s h o w s t h a t f l i g h t s t o

A z e r b a i j a

Meanwhile, Tunisia, Rwanda, Morocco, and Ghana also saw significant increases On TikTok, influencers are promoting alternatives like Bansko, Bulgaria, over the expensive French Alps, or Podgorica instead of crowded Athens and Budapest

The term "destination dupes," coined by Expedia in 2023, highlights how influencers share travel options that mimic the allure of p o p u l a r s p o t s , m u c h l i k

It’s not just Gen Z expanding their travel choices CAA data shows that millennials and their parents make up the majority of passengers heading to the Balkans Under-25s represent 20% of those traveling to Albania and 13% to Montenegro

Experts link the rise in demand for lesserk n o w n d e s t

s i n t r a v e l habits since Covid-19 While visits to popular tourist spots have rebounded, many are opting for quieter locations Research by Expedia

crowded destinations, compared to 40% of Gen Z, who are more likely to be influenced by online influencers (41% vs 5%) when seeking travel adventures Andrew Macmillan, Chief Strategy Officer at Manchester Airports Group, which operates London Stansted and East Midlands airports, noted that social media is increasingly shaping travel choices

“The rise of platforms like TikTok since 2019 has uncovered hidden gems, leading to a surge in trips to these destinations,” he said

However, while some Britons embrace

strong Tenerife remained the UK’s top destination in 2024 with 3 million visitors, followed by Málaga, Mallorca, and Alicante In

while Albania welcomed just under

Nawazuddin Siddiqui

says

industry didn’t value legends like Irrfan, Om Puri

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has expressed disappointment over how accomplished actors in the Hindi film industry like Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Irrfan, and Manoj Bajpayee have long been typecast and confined to mid or small-budget films, despite strong audience interest in seeing them lead big-budget projects.

R

e Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Pankaj

K a p u r , I r r f a n K h a n , a n d M a n o j Bajpayee as some of the greatest talents in Hindi cinema He expressed regret that, despite their immense popularity, they were never cast as leads in bigbudget films Everyone now praises Irrfan and Om Puri, but no one gave them ₹20-25 crore films when they were alive," he said, lamenting how their work rarely reached the masses despite being public favourites Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, and Pankaj Kapur are celebrated as some of the finest actors in the history of Hindi c i n e m a W h i l e t h e y d o m i n a t e d t h e parallel cinema movement of the 1980s, t h e y w e r e r a r e l y c a s t a s l e a d s i n m a i n s t r e a m c o m m e r c i a l f i l m s

Similarly, Manoj Bajpayee has delivered powerful lead performances in critically acclaimed, small to mid-budget films like ‘Shool’, ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, and ‘ B h a i y a j i ’ , b u t h a s m o

productions Nawazuddin Siddiqui, continuing i n t h e t r a d i t i o n o f i m p a c t f u l performances, was last seen in ‘Costao’, a biographical crime drama directed by Sejal Shah The film, featuring Priya

B a p a t , K i s h o r e , H u s s a i n D

d Mahika Sharma

Patralekhaa shares people send her scripts just to reach Rajkummar Rao

Actor Patralekhaa, who recently received critical acclaim for her role in ‘Phule’, has opened up about the ongoing professional challenges she faces despite her talent She expressed frustration at being primarily identified as Rajkummar Rao’s wife, saying, “I really hate it I detest it and feel very small,” adding in Hindi, “Kyunki mera ek naam hai, mera ek astitva hai” (Because I have a name, I have an identity)

Patralekhaa highlighted the common misconception that her journey has been easy due to her husband’s fame, but insisted, “It’s never easy when you ’ re trying to build your own path and career-it’s very difficult ”

The CityLights actor made a heartfelt appeal to the media, urging them to stop reducing her to a mere label “I’ll never be comfortable with it I’ll fight it till the very end,” she said

Patralekhaa also spoke about a troubling industry reality people often approach her not for her talent, but to reach her husband “They bring me scripts not because they want me, but because they want Raj The message is clear: take this to him, and the film is yours, ” she shared Despite such tactics, she firmly refuses to involve Rajkummar Rao in projects with hidden agendas “It’s below my dignity,” she said

Karan Johar opens up about social anxiety and avoiding big parties

Karan Johar, once known for his vibrant social life and presence at industry parties, has gradually distanced himself from that lifestyle

In a recent conversation with Raj Shamani on YouTube, he opened up about his inner world, revealing a more introspective side “I am a lonely person I believe most people are, ” he said, adding that being surrounded by people doesn’t necessarily take away the feeling of loneliness “Even a relationship might not fill that void I could still feel lonely in one ” Despite having two children, a loving mother, and strong friendships, Karan admitted that a part of him remains solitary “I’m blessed, but that sense of loneliness still exists,” he shared Karan Johar shared that he prefers to keep his thoughts to himself, explaining, “I don’t want to burden others with my feelings When you don’t share your thoughts, you end up with loneliness as your companion But that loneliness doesn’t bother me; I’ve made peace with it ” He added, “Do I like being lonely? Yes I’m a lonely person, but not an unhappy one ” Karan Johar opened up about his struggles with anxiety, sharing that while he once took medication, therapy no longer works for him "I can be my own therapist now I m in touch with my feelings and find my own solutions, he said He also revealed that social anxiety has led him to avoid parties, often leaving shortly after arriving "People think I attend parties, but I just stay for a few minutes I’ve stopped hosting because I don’t want to meet so many people I’m content with my close friends " Karan also recalled a panic attack at the NMACC opening in Mumbai "Varun Dhawan noticed I was shaking and sweating He took me to a quiet room, and I thought I was having a heart attack," he shared, adding that he left the event soon

Madhavan says they looked younger than students in ‘3 Idiots’

Actor R Madhavan, riding high on the success of ‘Kesari: Chapter 2’, recently reflected on his experience playing a college student in the blockbuster film ‘3 Idiots’, alongside Aamir Khan and Sharman Joshi Recalling the unusual casting, Madhavan admitted that portraying a young engineering student at the age of 40 was daunting.

“I was really nervous while shooting ‘ 3 Idiots’ I was 40 years old at the time,” said the ‘Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein’ star “Oh my God, it’s a miracle we actually managed to look like college students!”

M a d h a v a n w e n t o n

a humorous anecdote from the shoot, saying, “The funny part was when we arrived at the college in costume we actually looked younger than some of the real students there! That’s what b o o s

Aamir, Sharman, and I weren’t bald But many of the students had grey hair or were balding We even had to ask a few o

students When they said they were students, we thought, ‘Achchi baat hai, bhai! Thank goodness we suddenly feel much younger!’” D

Idiots’ starred Madhavan, Aamir Khan,

students, despite their real-life ages A

Sharman 30 at the time of filming Also

Kapoor, the film was

massive success and became the first Hindi movie to cross the ₹400 crore mark globally R Madhavan next stars in ‘Aap Jaisa Koi’, a Netflix romance with Fatima Sana Shaikh, where he plays a 48-yearold Sanskrit teacher opposite her 28year-old French professor Directed by Vivek Soni, the film is yet to get a release date He’s also shooting ‘De De Pyaar De 2 ’ with Ajay Devgn and Rakul Preet Singh, releasing in theatres on November 14

Javed Akhtar refused to let Shatrughan Sinha live with him over rent issue

Javed Akhtar, who arrived in Mumbai in the 1960s, faced many struggles before making his mark in the Hindi film industry After working odd jobs and as an assistant director, he landed a writing position at Sippy Films in 1970 for Rs 175. Recalling his early days, Javed shared a humorous memory with Shatrughan Sinha and Subhash Ghai, where Shatrughan once asked him for accommodation while they both lived in a small room

Javed Akhtar recalled a humorous incident from his early days in Mumbai when he was just starting to do well He had managed to rent a room for Rs 120 per month, paying half while someone else covered the other half Shatrughan Sinha, struggling like Javed, asked to stay with him Javed jokingly refused, saying, "You’ll get me evicted Where will you get Rs 60 from every month?" Despite the offer, Javed firmly declined, but he noted Shatrughan’s growing confidence and flair, which later defined his screen persona

Shatrughan, in turn, revealed that roles in iconic films like ‘Sholay’ and ‘Deewaar’ were initially offered to him He explained in a 2000 interview with Rediff, “The role in ‘Sholay’ was first offered to me, but I turned it down I didn’t want to play second lead Later, ‘Deewaar’ was also meant for me, but due to a fallout between the producer and Salim Khan, it went to Amitabh Bachchan ”

Kunal Kapoor describes Bachchan household as ‘normal’

ActorKunal Kapoor, who is married to Naina Bachchan niece of Amitabh Bachchan and daughter of Ajitabh Bachchan recently offered a peek into life within the iconic Bachchan family

“Honestly, it’s like any other Indian

different about it

Kunal Kapoor and Naina Bachchan got married in a private ceremony in Seychelles in 2015 and welcomed their

Bachchan, wife of Ajitabh Bachchan,

introduced her to her future husband She recalled, “Amitabh and I were close friends even before he entered films or I met Ajitabh We were part of the same social circle in Kolkata during his early ki d ”

Prateik Babbar admits to ‘vengeful’ behaviour before finding love again

Actor Prateik Smita Patil, who married longtime girlfriend Priya Banerjee on February 14, 2025, recently opened up about overcoming emotional turmoil after his first marriage ended

In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Prateik said the breakup with producer Sanya Sagar left him disillusioned with love and marriage “I gave it my all, but it didn’t work out I became bitter,” he shared However, meeting Priya during the lockdown felt like “divine timing ” Both were healing from past relationships when they met “We weren’t looking for love, but it found us, ” he said “For many, the lockdown broke marriages for us, it started one ”

Reflecting on the difficult phase before meeting Priya, Prateik Smita Patil revealed he went through a period of emotional upheaval and reckless behaviour “I was angry, bitter, and vengeful,” he admitted

“Out of spite, I followed thousands of attractive women on Instagram thinking, ‘I gave my all in marriage, now let’s see ’ It became a strange phase of ‘ladies vs Prateik’ the beast in me was unleashed ” Among those he followed was Priya, who eventually followed him back “For the first three months, we didn’t speak But one day, I replied to her story, and soon we were going on drives and meeting often and the rest is history ”

TV Listing

17:30 Rasoi Show

MON 19 MAY - FRI 23 MAY 2025

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17:30 Rasoi Show

18:30 Rashi Rikshawali

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21:00 United States Of Gujarat

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SATURDAY 24 MAY 2025

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14:30 Laxmi Sadaiv Mangalam

MON 19 MAY - FRI 23 MAY 2025

17:00 Anmol Bandhan

17:30 Shrukra Mangal

18:00 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Anmol Bandhan

20:30 Udaariyan

21:00 Choti Sardarni

22:00 Anmol Bandhan

22:30 Shrukra Mangal

23:00 Ramachari

SATURDAY 24 MAY 2025

17:00 Anmol Bandhan

18:30 Rashi Rikshawali

19:00 Shyam Dhoon Lagi Re

19:30 Loveyatri

20:00 Rashi Rikshawali

20:30 Moti Baa Ni Nani Vahu

21:00 United States Of Gujarat

21:30 Mayashakti

22:30 Rangai Jaane Rangma

23:00 Rashi Rikshawali

SUNDAY 25 MAY 2025

09:00 Deshi Beats

10:30 Best Of Rasoi Show

11:30 Mari Life Tari

14:30 Moti Baa Ni Nani Vahu

16:00 Loveyatri

17:30 Best Of Rasoi Show

18:30 Shyam Dhoon Lagi Re

19:30 Loveyatri

20:30 Lakshya

21:30 Mayashakti

22:30 United States Of Gujarat

17:30 Shrukra Mangal

18:00 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Anmol Bandhan

20:30 Udaariyan

21:00 Choti Sardarni

22:00 Anmol Bandhan

22:30 Shrukra Mangal

23:00 Ramachari

SUNDAY 25 MAY 2025

17:00 Anmol Bandhan

17:30 Shrukra Mangal

18:00 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Anmol Bandhan

20:30 Udaariyan

21:00 Choti Sardarni

22:00 Anmol Bandhan

22:30 Shrukra Mangal

23:000 Ramachari

Jason Sanjay turns Sundeep Kishan into mass hero in ‘JS01’ first glimpse

Tamil superstar Vijay’s son, Jason Sanjay, is making waves with his directorial debut, JS01, starring Sundeep Kishan. A new montage of the action film was released on May 7, marking Sundeep's birthday. The producers posted a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), celebrating his unique style and passion for cinema, wishing him a year of blockbuster hits and joy

The new rushes of ‘JS01’ suggest a high-octane action film with impressive VFX, showcasing Sundeep Kishan in a unique role This marks his 31st film, produced by Subaskaran with music by S Thaman Fans have noted the film's mass appeal, drawing comparisons to Vijay’s biggest hits of the last decade

G K M T a m i l K u m

Productions shared, "We’ve always supp

S

attention, with its Pan-Indian appeal

The story focuses on 'searching for what you ’ ve lost in its original place' but at what cost? Sundeep Kishen has proven his crowd-pulling ability in Tamil and Telugu, and we believe this collaboration will offer a unique cinematic experience "

J a s o n , w h o p u r s u e d a F i l m

Production Diploma at Toronto Film School and a BA in Screenwriting in L o n d o n , m a d e h

i n Vijay s 2009 film *Vettaikaran* with a cameo in the song "Naan Adicha "

Samantha Ruth Prabhu on smiling for pictures amid personal tragedy

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, preparing for the release of her first film as a producer, ‘Subham’, recently recalled a poignant moment when she had just learned of her father’s death

While in Mumbai, she received the call from her mother about his passing and had to fly to Chennai immediately Despite being in shock, Samantha continued to pose for pictures with fans, saying, “I never say no to pictures because they made me who I am ” She described the experience as numbness, standing and smiling for photos even though she was deeply affected by the news

Samantha Ruth Prabhu explained her decision to never refuse a photo with fans, saying, “If you say ‘ no, ’ they don’t know what state you ’ re in It takes courage for someone to ask for a picture, so I didn’t want to upset them ” Reflecting on the experience, she realized the stark differences between her life as a public figure and that of a normal person “No one would expect someone to smile on the day their father dies It’s a completely different world,” she said

Samantha’s father, Joseph Prabhu, passed away in November, and she honored him with a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, “Until we meet again, Dad ” She had previously opened up about their complicated relationship, revealing in an interview with *Hindustan Times* that she struggled for validation growing up “My father told me, ‘You’re not that smart; you ’ re just getting first rank because of the Indian education system ’ I truly believed I wasn’t good enough When my first film, ‘Ye Maaya Chesave’, became a hit, I didn’t know how to accept the praise because I was so used to fighting for validation ”

Kamal Haasan says Mani

Ratnam

is ‘young like me, but deeply inspired’

Mani

Ratnam and Kamal Haasan are reuniting after 38 years for their much-anticipated film Thug Life, set to release on June

5 As part of the film’s promotions, Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR (STR), and Trisha recently participated in a discussion where STR praised Ratnam’s dedication

“Most directors shout instructions from the monitor, but Mani sir walks up to the actor to explain That’s why we respect him so much,” STR said Haasan added, “Mani wasn’t born wise he’s young at heart like me, but the leaders who inspired him shaped his vision ” Kamal Haasan added that Silambarasan’s praise for Mani Ratnam also applied to the late filmmaker Balu Mahendra “Both Mani and I have worked with Balu Mahendra He was so meticulous, he even trained a dog to act,” Haasan recalled “There was a dog named Subramani who performed in one of his films Balu Mahendra was so impressed, he adopted the dog after the shoot It lived with him I used to be jealous of that dog ”

Along with Haasan, Silambarasan (STR), and Trisha, Thug Life also features an ensemble cast including Sanya Malhotra,

Nassar, Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi, Rohit Saraf, and Vaiyapuri

Aarti Mohan claims financial strain and home eviction after divorce

Months after announcing their divorce, Ravi Mohan was spotted attending a wedding with his rumored girlfriend, singer and spiritual healer Kenishaa Francis Although they were previously rumored to be dating, Kenishaa had denied the reports Meanwhile, Aarti, Ravi's estranged wife, has spoken out about the emotional and financial toll of the separation

In a recent Instagram post, Aarti shared, “For a year, I kept silent not out of weakness, but for my sons ’ peace I absorbed every accusation and allegation, not because I didn’t have the truth, but because I didn’t want my children to choose sides ” She further expressed that while Ravi has moved on, she continues to bear the weight of their responsibilities alone, facing eviction from the home they built together “I’ve been accused of being a gold digger, but if that were true, I would have protected my interests long ago Instead, I chose love and trust, and this is where it has led me ”

Aarti Mohan shared that she has been handling everything alone, facing eviction and no support from Ravi Mohan, who she claims has moved on She denied being a gold digger, saying, "If that were true, I would have protected my interests long ago " Ravi announced their separation in September 2024, leaving Aarti blindsided The couple had been married since 2009

Kangana Ranaut joins Hollywood horror film, fans want Priyanka Chopra collab

Kangana Ranaut is heading to Hollywood with her debut in the horror drama ‘Blessed Be the Evil’, co-starring Tyler Posey and Scarlet Rose Stallone Produced by Lions Movies, the film marks a surprising shift for the ‘Queen’ star, who previously said she wasn’t interested in a Western career The news has sparked mixed reactions online, with some fans suggesting she team up with Priyanka Chopra for guidance

Production for Blessed Be the Evil is set to begin later this year in New York, with locations chosen to avoid issues linked to new Trumpera industry tariffs Directed by Anurag Rudra and co-written with Gatha Tiwary, the horror drama follows a Christian couple who, after a tragic miscarriage, move to a farm with a dark past only to face a sinister force testing their love and faith The project will be pitched to international buyers at the upcoming Cannes Film Market

Kangana’s Hollywood debut has stirred social media, especially

overshadowing Indian cinema While some applaud the move, others question her change of heart

Reactions to Kangana Ranaut’s Hollywood debut have been mixed

One fan noted the challenges Indian actors face in the West, often being cast for market appeal rather than talent, but added they hope she gets a meaningful role Others praised her talent and hoped the opportunity brings her the recognition she deserves, while some expressed concern it may mirror Priyanka Chopra’s journey Several fans wished she hadn’t distanced herself from Priyanka, suggesting the two could make a strong team in Hollywood

Ram Charan joins Madame Tussauds elite

Ram Charan has been immortalised in wax at Madame Tussauds

London, marking a historic moment as the first Indian celebrity to be featured with a pet His dog, Rhyme, stands proudly beside him in the display, placing him in exclusive company, Queen Elizabeth II is the only other figure at the museum portrayed with a pet

The statue was unveiled at an intimate event in London, attended by Ram Charan’s family, including his parents, legendary actor Chiranjeevi and Surekha While the unveiling was originally scheduled for a later date, the family felt this was the right moment to celebrate and share the milestone

Ram Charan’s wax figure is dressed in the elegant black velvet bandhgala he wore to the 2023 Academy Awards, where ‘Naatu Naatu’ from his film ‘RRR’ made history by winning Best Original Song The installation not only highlights his rising international acclaim but also captures the special bond he shares with his beloved dog, Rhyme

Photos from the unveiling have been widely shared on social media Ram Charan’s wife, Upasana, posted a heartwarming video showing him posing with his wax figure, while their daughter, Klin Kaara, adorably steals the spotlight as she approaches the statue Upasana captioned it: “Team Rhyme or Team Ram??? And my Klin Kaara was just too adorable Priceless PS – Sometimes the wax version makes a better husband – just listening & looking great in every pic!”

Khloe Kardashian praises Shah Rukh Khan after Met Gala appearance

Shah Rukh Khan made his Met Gala debut this year as the first Indian male actor to walk the red carpet.

Sabyasachi ensemble, featuring a floor-length coat, silk shirt,

jewellery, including an ‘SRK’ initials neckpiece

symbolising the 'King' his fans call him, caught attention, but

justice to his iconic persona Despite mixed reactions, Khloe Kardashian praised SRK’s look on Snapchat, saying, “I loved seeing King Khan at The Met I’m a fan of the K necklace ” She also appreciated how designers incorporate cultural e l

m e n t s i n t o

i r f a s h i o n Khloe revealed she first learned about Shah Rukh during a visit to India with Kim Kardashian last year

In addition to Shah Rukh K h a n , s

l o t h e

I

i a n celebrities made their mark on the Met Gala red carpet this year Kiara Advani debuted her baby bump in a customised G a u r a v G u p

Renowned designers Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi also graced the event

Gala look was inspired by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh

After Rohit, Kohli too announces retirement from Test cricket

form at The news that K ohli informed the BC CI about h is d ecision to retire from T est cricket sent shockwav

He still isn't as aged as some of the legends to have continued playing before him and has yet to breach the 10,000-run mark Still, Kohli felt it was the right

t i m e t o w a l k

f

o m t h e format, having scored 9,230 runs from 23 Tests at an average of 4 6 8 a n d e n d i n g

e

i n Tests behind Sachin Tendulkar ( 1 5 , 9 2 1 ) , R a h u l D r a v i d ( 1 3 , 2 6 5 ) and Sunil Gavaskar (10,122)

The BCCI on Mon day decide d to r esume t he IPL sea son a cross six v en ues from Ma y 17 wit h t he final sl ated for June 3 as pe r the r evise d sche dul e

The IPL was halted on May 8 after the match between Punjab

K i n g s a n d D e l h i C a p i t a l s w a s called off after Pakistan tried to i n v a d e I n d i a n a i r s p a c e n e a r Chandigarh, forcing a blackout in the stadium

However, the board officials decided for a quick resumption of the league, following India and Pakistan agreeing a ceasefire in

It s been 14 years since I first w o r e t h

format would take me

taught me lessons I'll carry for life There's something deeply p

whites The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever," Kohli announced on social media "As I step away

their border conflict “BCCI is pleased to announce the resumption of the TATA IPL 2 0 2 5 A f t e r e x t

e consultations with government and security agencies, and with all the stakeholders, the Board has decided to proceed with the remainder of the season, ” the board said in a statement

T h e f i r s t m a

resumption of the league will be b e t w e e n R o y a l C h a l l e n g e r s Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders in Bengaluru on May 17 T h e s i x v

Teen batter Vansh Jani signs first pro deal with Bears

W ar w ic k sh i re h av e s i g n ed teenag e batter V ansh Jani on a rookie contract from the Sou th A sian C ricket A cademy ( SAC A)

a ft er a st ri ng o f im p res s iv e S econd X I d isp lays Jani - who

p r o g re ss ed t h ro u g h M id dlesex’s Y outh P athw ayh as been trialing w ith the Bears and hit three Seco nd X I centuries last month

T h e 1 9 - y e

Seconds at the start of April and followed that with an 122 not out (112 balls) vs Worcestershire Seconds

In between he made an appearance for SACA against the Bears and, despite coming up against an experienced attack including Craig Miles, Che Simmons, Danny Briggs and Jake Lintott, compiled 156 from 169 balls

He was also part of the SACA tour party that competed in the Abu Dhabi T20 Super Cup and scored 38 not out in their two-day red ball game against an Essex attack comprising Sam Cook, Jamie Porter and Shane Snater

Jani has signed a contract until the end of the 2025 season Warwickshire First team Coach Ian Westwood said he’s been impressed by Jani’s development over the last year “He is a rapidly developing batter who has significant potential in both the long and short formats,” added Westwood

“We are keen to support him further in his professional and first team ambitions, and are confident we have the opportunity and resource to help him We look forward to watching him grow and flourish with Warwickshire ”

Isleworth-born Jani was with Middlesex until the age of 18 before spending time with the International Cricket programme in Sydney where he played Grade Cricket for St George’s District Cricket Club He’s also represented Buckinghamshire CC in National Counties competitions and joined SACA at the end of last season

“I’m extremely excited to be signing for the Bears,” said Jani “It’s been my dream to be a professional cricketer so to get this chance with a great club like Warwickshire is incredible

from this format, it's not easy - but it feels

everything I had, and it s given me back so

I could've hoped for I'm

heart full of gratitudefor the game, for the

h e field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way " Roh it ready to play in ODI

announced his retirement from Test cricket just days before the

gets together to pick the team for the upcoming five Test series in England It is learnt that Rohit conveyed to the Indian cricket board (BCCI) and selectors that they should not consider him as

captain for the tour He had retired from T20Is after leading the team to the T20 World Cup triumph last year T h e B C C

India’s ODI skipper Rohit made up his mind to give up Test c

discussions with the selectors R

cricket after the first two Tests in England and then take a call on his career “

relinquish Test captaincy Last w

selectors that they should be looking for other options He wanted to test himself out in the first two Tests However, the s

with that idea,” a BCCI source said

in brief

NEERAJ TO COMPETE AT OSTRAVA GOLDEN SPIKE

Double Olympic medallist Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra will compete at the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 athletics meet in the Czech Republic city on June 24 hoping to be third time lucky after pulling out in the last two editions due to injuries The Tokyo Olympics gold medallist was supposed to participate in the 2023 and 2024 editions of the tournament but pulled out after suffering injuries on both occasions I am excited to announce that I will take part in the Golden Spike meeting in Ostrava this year It’s a legendary race and this year will be exceptional My coach Jan Železný has not only won there many times but also acts as the director of the whole event I hope you will see nice and far-reaching feasts he said

MI TEAM AND GT’S NEHRA FINED FOR BREACHING CODE

Ahmedabad and Mumbai The venues for the playoff matches will be announced at a later date However, the dates of the

schedule, Qualifier 1 will be held

Eliminator on May 30

The Qualifier 2 will be played on June 1, to be followed by the title match two days later A total o

across six venues and the revised schedule includes two doubleheaders, which will be played on two Sundays Foreign pla yers availa bility

franchises left for their respective home countries and some were in transit, after the league was suspended Now, the teams will have to reassemble them, at least as many as possible, before May 17 However, some players might stay back, particularly those with some niggles

Smriti’s century helps India beat Lanka, clinch tri-series

India displayed absolute dominance to crush Sri Lanka by 97 runs and earn a well-deserved title triumph in the Women’s Tri-Nation ODI series after vice-captain Smriti Mandhana’s sublime century and the bowlers’ collective effort in the title clash in Colombo on Sunday

commanding 342 for seven, the bowlers completed the task by bundling out Sri Lanka for 245, with Sneh Rana (4/38) and Amanjot

Athapaththu (51 off 66 balls) and Nilakshika Silva (48 off 58) were the chief contributors for the hosts

Earlier, battling cramps in humid conditions, elegant left-hander Mandhana, who had returned to form with a fifty in India’s last match against South Africa, struck a majestic 116 off 101 balls to lay the foundation for India’s imposing total after skipper Harmanpreet Kaur opted to bat Her knock was laced with 15 fours and two sixes, including four successive boundaries off Athapaththu to bring up her 11th ODI hundred in style

Brief scores: India 342/7 in 50 overs (S Mandhana 116, H Deol 4; S Kumari 2/59) beat Sri Lanka 245 in 48 2 overs (C Athapaththu 51; Amanjot 3/54, Sneh Rana 4/38)

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya and his team were handed hefty fines for maintaining a slow over rate, while their rival side Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra also copped a financial penalty and a demerit point for conduct contrary to the spirit of the game in their IPL clash in Mumbai “As it was his team’s second offence of the season under the IPL’s Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Pandya was fined Rs 24,00,000,” the IPL said in a statement

OWEN REPLACES MAXWELL IN PUNJAB TEAM

Australian allrounder Mitchell Owen will be joining the Punjab Kings squad for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season He will replace Glenn Maxwell, who was ruled out of the tournament after sustaining a finger injury, as reported by the franchise I think we re all very happy to add Mitchell Owen to our squad for the back end of this season He’s someone that I ve watched very closely, especially over the last 12 months,” head coach Ricky Ponting said in a PBKS release, “He’s a very exciting player, a very exciting package ” Joining the Kings for £300,000, the 23-year-old Owen has scored a total of 646 runs and picked up 10 wickets in 34 T20 matches He also has two centuries to his name, with a highest score of 108

PAKISTAN POSTPONE PSL T20 CRICKET

The Pakistan Cricket Board has postponed its Pakistan Super League T20 cricket tournament amid tensions with Pakistan The PCB said it acted on advice from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif The PCB had earlier confirmed that it would relocate the eight remaining PSL matches to Dubai United Arab Emirates citing growing concerns among overseas players and the need to prioritise their safety The latest announcement however said the PSL was being postponed and gave no indication of whether this year s edition would resume

Deepika wins 18th WC medal, Parth bags maiden bronze

Recurve archers Parth Salunkhe and Deepi ka Kumari gave India reason to cheer when the Satara youngster and seasoned campaigner clinched bronze medals and ended the the Shanghai World Cup Stage 2 with heads held high on Sunday

While Deepika secured her 18th individual World Cup medal, 21year-old Parth pocketed his maiden

winning all five

campaign

Rohit Sharma& Virat Kohli