warns Pakistan of total annihilation if terror returns
Adampur Airbase (Punjab), May 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday issued
Ottawa, May 14 (IANS) Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Anita Ananda to the
a sharp warning to Pakistan and its supported terror groups, declaring that India’s new doctrine on terrorism involves striking at the source, deep inside enemy territory. “Hum ghar mein ghus kar marenge aur bachane ka ek mauka tak nahi denge,” the Prime Minister thundered during his address to air warriors at the Adampur Air Force base in Punjab.
He praised India’s armed forces for their massive response to last week’s Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed by terrorists from a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy. ‘Operation Sindoor’— India’s swift, coordinated military response -- targeted nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Kashmir, which was
New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Indian cricket stalwart and former captain Virat Kohli on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket.
The decision came after it was reported that Kohli had
Justice B.R. Gavai sworn in as 52nd Chief Justice of India
powerful post of Foreign Minister in his new cabinet charged with fulfilling the “mandate for change”.
He also appointed Maninder Sidhu as the international trade minister, and two others of Indian descent as secretaries of state – the equivalent of ministers of state.
New Delhi, May 14 (IANS)
President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday administered the oath of office to Justice B.R. Gavai as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) in a swearing-in ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national Capital.
Justice Gavai, the 52nd CJI, will have a tenure of over 6 months,
Three Jaish terrorists killed in J&K encounter
Srinagar, May 15 (IANS) Three terrorists of the Jaish-e-
Mohammad (JeM) were killed on Thursday in a gunfight with the security forces in Nader village of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district.
Officials said the three terrorists were later identified as Asif Ahmed Sheikh, Amir Nazir Wani and Yawar Ahmad Bhat, all residents of Jammu and Kashmir's
Pulwama district. This is the second encounter in the union territory within 48 hours.
Earlier today, Srinagar headquartered 15 Corps of the Army said on X, "On May 15, 2025, based on specific Intelligence
and he will demit office on November 23, 2025.
On April 29, the Centre cleared the appointment of Justice Gavai to the highest judicial office of the country after then CJI Sanjiv Khanna had recommended him as his successor last month.
"In exercise of the powers conferred by Clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, Judge of the Supreme Court, to be the
Chief Justice of India with effect from 14th May, 2025," had said a notification issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice. Justice Gavai was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019.
In the last six years, he was a part of around 700 Benches dealing with matters pertaining to a variety of subjects, including constitutional and administrative law, civil law, criminal law,
New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended his best wishes to citizens on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, highlighting that the life and teachings of Lord Buddha will always guide the world towards compassion and peace.
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is a significant spiritual occasion celebrated by Buddhists globally. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (death) of Gautama Buddha. Observed on the full moon day of the Vaisakh
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‘Ghar mein ghus kar maarenge’: PM Modi warns Pakistan of total annihilation if terror returns
Continued from Page 1
followed by hostilities that saw India repelling Pakistani missile and drone retaliation.
“This is our new normal,” PM Modi said, referring to Operation Sindoor, which he described as India’s first tri-service combat operation since the 1971 war.
“India's 'Laxman Rekha' against terrorism is crystal clear now. If another terror attack occurs now, India will give a reply – a solid reply. We saw this during the surgical strike, during the air strike. Now, Operation Sindoor is India's new normal,” he asserted. Taking aim at Pakistan’s military support for terror outfits, PM Modi declared: “Jis Pakistani sena ke bharose ye aatanki baithhe the, Bharatiya sena, Bharat ki Air Force aur Bharatiyon ne us Pakistani sena ko bhi dhool chata di hai. (The terrorists who were relying on the Pakistani Army — the Indian Army, the Indian Air
Force, and the people of India have made that Pakistani Army bite the dust).”
He added that India’s growing military strength should serve as a deterrent. “Our drones, our missiles, just thinking about them will keep Pakistan sleepless for days.”
The Prime Minister used the moment to express deep gratitude to the armed forces.
“Every Indian is proud of you... you have written history. I have come for your blessings. You are an inspiration for this and the coming generations. I want to salute the Army, Navy and Air Force.”
“The terrorists dared us... but you hit them front-on. You wiped out their terror bases and killed 100 terrorists. They have now realised that if they try to attack us, the result will be their destruction... massive destruction,” PM Modi
said.
The Adampur Air Force base itself was at the centre of the recent military escalation, and also the target of a Pakistani disinformation campaign. Islamabad falsely claimed that its China-made JF-17 jets had destroyed the base and knocked out one of India’s Russian-origin S-400 air defence systems.
India responded by releasing a photograph of PM Modi saluting soldiers at Adampur, with a fully operational S-400 system in the background -- silencing claims from across the border and reinforcing India’s military credibility.
As the speech ended with chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai”, the message was clear: India will no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism and will respond not just in defence, but with preemptive precision.
Three Jaish terrorists killed in J&K encounter
Continued from Page 1
input from Int agency, a Cordon & Search Operation was launched by Indian Army, J&K Police and Srinagar Sector CRPF at Nader, Tral, Awantipora. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened heavy fire, and a fierce gunfight ensued. Operation is in progress."
A gunfight had started between the security forces and the hiding terrorists on Thursday in the Tral area of Pulwama district’s Awantipora sub-division.
The Police said on X, "Encounter has started at Nader, Tral area of #Awantipora. Police and security forces are on the job. Further details shall follow."
Following specific Intelligence inputs, security forces surrounded the Nader village of Tral tehsil to conduct searches.
"As the security forces came close to the hiding terrorists, there was an exchange of gunfire, which is now going on," police said. Today's gunfight comes two days after security forces gunned down three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists
in an operation in the Keller area of Shopian district.
Of the three terrorists killed on Tuesday, the two slain terrorists were identified as Shahid Kuttay and Adnan Shafi, both residents of Shopian. Kuttay, who joined Lashkar in 2023, was involved in a shooting incident at the Danish resort on April 8 last year, in which two German tourists and one driver were injured.
He was also involved in the killing of a BJP Sarpanch at Heerpora in Shopian in May last year. Shafi, who joined the terror group in 2024, was involved in the killing of a non-local labourer at Wachi in Shopian district.
On May 10, a ceasefire understanding was announced by India and Pakistan. However, the terrorists fired at the sentry post outside the headquarters of the White Knight Corps in the Nagrota area of Jammu district nearly two hours after the ceasefire understanding came into force.
India has made it clear that any act of terror within the country would be treated as an "act of war". The terrorists, aided and
sponsored by Pakistan, killed 26 innocent people on April 22, including 25 tourists and a local in Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. The cowardly act was carried out by LeT terrorists, as per the security forces. This finally resulted in India avenging the murder of innocent civilians by precision strikes at terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied-Kashmir (PoK).
India has made it clear that the Indus Waters Treaty would continue to remain in abeyance, and no trade would be restored with Pakistan.
During Pakistani targeting of civilian areas along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border, more than 200 houses and shops have been destroyed, forcing hundreds of border dwellers to abandon their homes to seek refuge at safer places away from the line of fire. These affected families are yet to return to their homes at the LoC as the security forces are busy defusing unexploded Pakistani mortar shells in the affected areas.
Pak’s Nuclear facility should now be under global body supervision: Defence Minister Singh demands in J&K
Srinagar, May 15 (IANS) Indian Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh said on Thursday that the present ceasefire understanding is respected by India only as long as no terrorist attack takes place in the country. He also said that it was time that the Nuclear facility of Pakistan was taken over by a global watchdog.
Addressing the Indian Army soldiers at the Badami Bagh Cantonment area of Srinagar city, which is the headquarters of the Army’s 15 Corps, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said,
Anita
Anand appointed Canada’s Foreign Minister; will pilot reset with India
Continued from Page 1
One of Anand’s missions will be to pilot the reset of the almost ruptured ties with India that Carney signalled, while managing the delicate relations with President Donald Trump’s America.
Announcing the new cabinet of 28 ministers, he instructed them to "bring new ideas, a clear focus and decisive actions to their work”.
Ruby Sahota, who was the minister of democratic institutions, has been downgraded to a secretary of state and put in charge of combating crime.
Randeep Sarai is another of the ten secretaries of state and will deal with international development.
Anand, who was the transport
minister and had earlier held the defence portfolio, said in January that she was leaving politics and returning to academia.
But Carney persuaded her to return to the cabinet and take the foreign affairs portfolio after she was re-elected in last month’s election. Carney, who inherited former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet, now has a chance to put his mark after having led the Liberal Party to victory, beating the odds in last month’s election.
He cut the number of ministers from 39 in Trudeau's cabinet to 28, and three politicians of Indian origin in the last cabinet do not find a place now. What is probably the most important portfolio during the tariff war with the US has been assigned to Dominic LeBlanc, who will be the minister responsible for Canada-US trade.
Justice B.R. Gavai sworn in as 52nd Chief Justice of India
He has authored around 300 judgments, including that of the Constitution Bench on various issues, upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the fundamental rights, human rights and legal rights of citizens.
Appointed as Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court in November 2003, Justice Gavai became a permanent Judge in November 2005.
Before elevation to the Bench, he practised in constitutional law and administrative law, and acted as Standing Counsel for Municipal Corporation of Nagpur, Amravati Municipal Corporation, and Amravati University. He was appointed as Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor in the Bombay High Court, Nagpur Bench in August 1992 and served till July 1993.
He was appointed as Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor for the Nagpur Bench on January 17, 2000.
PM Modi extends greetings on Buddha Purnima, hails Lord Buddha’s message of peace
Continued from Page 1
month in the Hindu calendar, the day is dedicated to meditation, peace, and spiritual reflection.
Sharing a message on X, PM Modi wrote, "Best wishes to all countrymen on Buddha Purnima.
“Our 'Operation Sindoor' is undoubtedly the biggest anti-terrorist operation ever undertaken by India. We hit their chest and left a huge wound on it after they tried to attack our head."
The Defence Minister started his address by paying homage to the bravehearts of the country who laid down their lives during the recent hostilities between India and Pakistan. He also paid tribute to the 26 people killed by terrorists in Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22.
Lord Buddha's messages, based on the principles of truth, equality and harmony, have been a guide for humanity. His life dedicated to sacrifice and penance will always inspire the world community towards compassion and peace."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to social media to convey his greetings.
"Happy Buddha Purnima to everyone. The life of Lord Buddha, who gave the message of equality and unity to human society by following the path of knowledge, compassion and non-violence, is the confluence of thoughts, words and deeds. I pray to Lord Buddha for everyone's happiness and peace," he said in a
post on X.
Union Minister J.P. Nadda also extended his heartfelt wishes, saying, "I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the countrymen on Buddha Purnima. Lord Buddha showed the path of religion, compassion, non-violence and peace to human society."
"His great ascetic life of awakening the 'self' and dedicating himself in the service of others and his teachings will continue to inspire all of us forever," he added.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his message on X, wrote, "On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, I bow to Mahatma Buddha who is the symbol of peace, wisdom and compassion. His timeless teachings continue to guide humanity towards harmony, self-realisation and the path of righteousness."
India’s answer to terror now comes with missiles, drones and no warnings: PM Modi at Adampur
Adampur, May 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to the Air Force Station at Adampur on Tuesday, delivered a powerful address to the armed forces, praising their courage and reaffirming India's assertive stance on national security.
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, he said that India's response to terrorism has entered a new era -- precise, resolute, and unforgiving.
Calling the chant "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" more than just a slogan, the
Operation
Prime Minister described it as a sacred oath for every soldier and citizen.
"When Indian soldiers chant it on the battlefield, it sends shivers down the enemy's spine," he said, adding that the phrase now echoes through every drone strike and missile launch that crushes enemy fortifications.
PM Modi hailed Operation Sindoor as a landmark moment -- a "trinity" of policy, intent, and decisive capability.
He stressed that it was not a routine military action but a bold demonstration of India's strength, precision, and technological edge.
"India is the land of Buddha and Guru Gobind Singh Ji," he said, invoking the legacy of courage and righteousness.
"Those who came in secrecy to harm India's daughters were crushed in their own hideouts," the Prime Minister declared. The operation, he confirmed, destroyed nine major terror hubs and eliminated more than 100 terrorists, sending a clear signal to the masterminds behind crossborder attacks.
"Provoking India now leads only to one consequence -- total destruction," the Prime Minister said.
He also added that the Pakistani Army, which had long sheltered terror groups, was now left humiliated and exposed.
PM Modi highlighted how Operation Sindoor was not only a tactical success but a symbol of India's military integration.
Sindoor under PM Modi’s leadership draws praise from common public
New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) The Indian Armed Forces’ Operation Sindoor, which avenged the killing of 26 tourists in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22 by pulverising terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, has drawn praise and applause from all across the country.
People are also lauding the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for steering the fight against terror and unleashing our military firepower on terrorists' den, within the enemy’s territory.
As PM Modi met and saluted the air warriors and soldiers at Punjab airbase on Tuesday, many citizens across the country shared their views with IANS on the country’s counterterror operation, reasoning why this was
a step in the right direction.
Vasudev, a temple priest in Odisha, said that the Indian Army under the leadership of PM Modi has broken the back of the Pakistani Army and its government. If they don’t mend their ways, they will be given a bigger punishment.
He said that Operation Sindoor has shown the world that our forces can hit the terrorists inside their bases.
"May the blessings of Lord Jagannath remain on PM Modi and he should take on the country’s enemies like a tiger," he added.
Anibar Chatopadhyay, a resident of Kolkata, said, “There can’t be a more ugly incident than the Pahalgam massacre. They were murdered in cold blood by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists.”
“This should have been done earlier. The Indian Army has done the right thing; we have demolished and decimated many terror bases across the border.
Modi government rightly gave the go-ahead to the Army to hit them
inside Pakistan.”
“If they try to spread terror again, PM Modi has already stated that severe action will be taken. Next time, there won’t be any person to shout Pakistan Zindabad,” he remarked.
A Delhi-based resident said that the Modi government is taking the fight against terror in the right direction. There can’t be any other substitute than hitting terror bases in their dens.
“Forces are in high spirits after Operation Sindoor. If Pakistan tries to create disturbance again, a similar treatment should be given,” he asserted.
Aditya Kumar from Rajasthan said that the Modi government’s policy of going after terrorists inside the neighbouring country is a good step.
“Our whole family, including our children are happy over stern action against Pak-based terrorists,” he said.
He said that India is a powerful country and the Operation Sindoor is a right tribute to the victims of Pahalgam brutality.
‘India’s response reflects will of 140 crore citizens’, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat hails armed forces
11 (IANS) Following fresh ceasefire violations by Pakistan, Union Minister Gajendra Singh
Shekhawat, on Sunday, lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their courageous and effective response, stating that the nation’s military strength has once again gained global recognition.
Speaking to the media, Shekhawat said, “Last night, reports came in that Pakistan violated the ceasefire again. In line with the expectations of the 140 crore citizens of the country, the Indian military has displayed extraordinary courage and valour in its operations, and through this, India's military capability has gained a new recognition across the world.”
Commenting on the recent
Operation Sindoor: Know what India has achieved
New Delhi, May 11 (IANS) India, rattled and angered by the dastardly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, launched a massive strike deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied J&K in the early hours of May 7, targeting the terror launchpads, to avenge the brutal killing of its civilians. The operation was an absolute success. Let's have a look at what India has achieved.
Nine Terror Camps Destroyed India neutralised 9 high-value terror launchpads across Pakistan and PoK. Targets belonged to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-eMohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen. The locations were identified as key training and operational centers for planning attacks against India.
Deep Strikes into Pakistan's Mainland
India has changed the terms of engagement, displaying willingness to strike deep into Pakistan's heartland. India shredded the notion that terrorists are separate from terrorist backers and thus targeted both, shifting to a new paradigm.
Strikes extended hundreds of kilometers inside Pakistan, not just PoJK. India struck targets even in Punjab province, considered a strategic stronghold of Pakistan's military.
India struck at sensitive terror hubs such as Bahawalpur, places which even the US had not dared to send its drones, sources said.
India has made it clear that neither the LoC nor internal Pakistani geography is off-limits if terror emanates from its soil. Through its strikes, India has proved to the world that every inch of Pakistan was under reach.
Red line drawn
escalation and Operation Sindoor, Shekhawat said that Pakistan’s deliberate provocation amid already tense border conditions was unacceptable. He emphasised India's unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism.
“Given the circumstances at the border and following Operation Sindoor, Pakistan once again deliberately carried out aggressive actions. Our commitment to eradicating terrorism has been clearly demonstrated over the past few days. India has proven both the authenticity and effectiveness of its stance on the global stage,” he said.
India’s response asserted a doctrinal shift toward calibrated deterrence. Operation Sindoor has drawn a red line Pakistan can no longer ignorethat terrorism as state policy will trigger targeted, visible consequences.
New paradigm against terror
For the first time, India decisively rejected the distinction between terrorists and their sponsors, taking action against both. It also undermined the longstanding assumption that certain influential rogue elements within the Pakistani state could orchestrate terrorist activities with impunity.
Exposed Pakistan’s Fragile Air Defence
Indian forces successfully bypassed or jammed Pakistan’s air defence grid. The swift and precise nature of the strikes, conducted within a 23-minute window, highlighted gaps in Pakistan's air defense systems.
Indian Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and HAMMER bombs executed the mission without any reported losses, demonstrating technological and strategic superiority.
Projection of India’s robust air defence preparedness
India demonstrated the evolving nature of modern air defense, and defended its own airspace with a robust, layered architecture. Also, India successfully penetrated the Chinese-made systems fielded by Pakistan, in a reminder that defense is not about what you buy but about what you integrate.
Akashteer Air Defence System proved its impact by neutralising hundreds of Pakistani drones and missiles and is now positioned as a global export contender.
Precision Without Escalation No military or civilian infrastructure targeted — only terror assets. India followed its Zero Tolerance doctrine while avoiding broader escalation.
Elimination of Key Terror Operatives
Several dreaded terrorists eliminated, including those on India’s most wanted list while leadership of multiple terror modules wiped out in a single night.
Damage to Pakistan’s Military establishment
India’s counter military actions on night of 9th and 10th May also became the first instance of a country damaging air force camps of a
nuclear country. Within 3 hours 11 bases were attacked including Nur Khan, Rafiqi, Murid, Sukkur, Sialkot, Pasrur, Chunian, Sargodha, Skaru, Bholari and Jacobabad. This led to destruction of 20 per cent infrastructure of Pakistan’s airforce, sources said.
India bombed Pakistan’s Bholari Air Base killing over 50 people including Pakistan’s squadron leader Usman Yousuf, 4 airmen among others as well as destroying Pakistan’s fighter jets. Tri-Service Synergy
Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force executed coordinated strikes — proof of India’s growing joint warfare capability.
Global Message Sent India showed the world that it will not wait for permission to defend its people. Terror will be punished — anytime, anywhere.
New Delhi, May
The might of Indian Army has been felt by Rawalpindi, says Rajnath Singh
Lucknow, May 11 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor as a defining moment in India's fight against terrorism and said that its impact has not only shaken the borders of Pakistan but reached deep into its heart, including Rawalpindi, the headquarters of the Pakistani army.
Virtually speaking after inaugurating the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile production unit at the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor in Lucknow, Singh declared, "Operation Sindoor is not just a military action but a symbol of India's political, social and strategic will power. It has demonstrated India's strength, resolve and the capability of its armed forces."
Praising the Indian Army's role
in executing the operation, he said, "Before ending my speech, I would like to say that the antiIndia and terrorist organisations who had attacked the crown of Mother India and ruined the lives of many families, the Indian Army has provided them justice through Operation Sindoor and for this, today the whole country is congratulating the Indian Army."
The Defence Minister emphasised that Operation Sindoor was a direct response to terrorism and not aimed at harming civilians.
"We have never targeted common citizens. But Pakistan has tried to attack India's civilian population and even religious places -- temples, Gurudwaras, and churches," he said, slamming Pakistan for targeting civilian and religious infrastructures in India.
"The Indian armed forces have shown unmatched bravery, courage and also restraint. They have given a befitting reply by attacking Pakistani targets not just at the border, but also across it. The might of the Indian Army
has even been felt by Rawalpindi, the place where the headquarters of the Pakistani Army are located. The consequences of committing terrorist acts in India have been made clear to the whole world," he added.
He also drew attention to India's past decisive actions. "After the terrorist attacks, our army conducted surgical strikes inside Pakistan. After Pulwama, the world saw the Balakot airstrikes. And after the Pahalgam incident, India has carried out multiple strikes across the border again," Singh said.
In a strong endorsement of the Modi government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, the Defence Minister said, "Our illustrious Prime Minister Narendra Modi, walking on the path of zero tolerance against terrorism, has made it clear that this is a new India, which will take effective action against terrorism on both sides of the border. Our Prime Minister has sent this message loud and clear."
‘War is not India’s choice’: NSA Doval speaks to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi amid India-Pak tensions
New Delhi, May 11 (IANS) In a high-level diplomatic exchange, Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and reaffirmed that "war was not India's choice" and emphasised India's commitment to ceasefire and restoring peace with Pakistan.
The talks between India and China were held following the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that claimed the lives of several Indian personnel.
During the call, Doval reportedly conveyed that the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam resulted in serious casualties and necessitated counter-terrorism actions by India.
The conversation, disclosed by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on regional stability and the imperative of maintaining peace amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions.
According to Beijing's readout, NSA Doval described the Pahalgam attack as a grave incident necessitating counterterrorism responses, but reaffirmed that "war was not
India's choice" and emphasised India's commitment to ceasefire and restoration of peace with Pakistan.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the attack and reiterated China's firm opposition to terrorism in all forms.
"The Pahalgam terrorist attack caused serious casualties among Indian personnel and that India needed to take counterterrorism actions. War was not India's choice and was not in the interests of any party. India and Pakistan would be committed to a ceasefire and look forward to restoring regional peace and stability as soon as possible," Chinese Foreign Ministry quoted NSA Doval.
"Peace and stability in the Asian region is hard-won and deserves to be cherished," Wang said, adding that both India and Pakistan, as immediate neighbours of China and each other, should resolve disputes through dialogue and avoid further escalation.
"China appreciates your statement that war is not India's choice," Wang told NSA Doval, expressing hope that both India and Pakistan would remain calm, exercise restraint, and reach a “comprehensive and lasting ceasefire” through mutual consultations -- an outcome China believes aligns with the fundamental interests of both countries and the expectations of the global community.
However, events on the ground soon painted a grim contrast to the diplomatic tone.
Just hours after India and
CM Yogi praises ‘Operation Sindoor’, says ‘Ask Pakistan about the power of BrahMos’
Lucknow, May 11 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hailed the success of Operation Sindoor, stating that it demonstrated the formidable power of the BrahMos missile to the world.
He said this while inaugurating the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile production unit at the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor in Lucknow.
Addressing the gathering, Yogi Adityanath said, "I would like to congratulate the Indian Armed Forces, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh for the success of 'Operation Sindoor'."
Pakistan announced a mutual understanding to halt military actions, the truce appeared to collapse under renewed hostilities.
In a late evening press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri accused Pakistan of violating the ceasefire terms agreed upon by the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs).
"For the last few hours, this understanding has been violated by Pakistan. The Indian Army is retaliating and dealing with this border intrusion," he said.
Calling the Pakistani actions as "extremely condemnable," Foreign Secretary Misri urged Pakistan to act swiftly to halt these violations.
He confirmed that Indian armed forces remain on high alert and have received orders to deal firmly with any further breaches along both the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC).
India had launched a major counterterrorism operation, 'Operation Sindoor', on May 7 targeting 9 terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, with precision strikes. In response, Pakistan has repeatedly used drones against Indian border states, which have so far been intercepted and neutralised by Indian air defence systems.
With tensions simmering despite diplomatic efforts, the international community is likely to closely monitor the next steps from both New Delhi and Islamabad.
He also thanked the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister for their "efforts to develop Uttar Pradesh as a hub of defence manufacturing."
The newly inaugurated facility, built at a cost of Rs 300 crore, is designed to produce 80 to 100 BrahMos missiles annually and is a key addition to India's indigenous defence infrastructure.
Developed by BrahMos Aerospace -- a joint venture between India's DRDO and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya -- the supersonic cruise missile boasts a range of 290 to 400 kilometres and can reach speeds up to Mach 2.8.
It can be launched from land, sea, or air and follows a "fire and forget" guidance system.
Invoking the recent crossborder operation, CM Yogi said, "You must have seen a glimpse of the BrahMos missile during Operation Sindoor. If you didn't, then just ask the people of Pakistan about the power of the BrahMos missile. PM Modi has announced that any act of terrorism going forward will be considered an act of war."
Reaffirming India's stance against terrorism, he added, "The problem of terrorism cannot be solved until we crush it completely. To do so, we all have to fight together in one voice under PM Modi's leadership.
Andhra Pradesh announces Rs 50 lakh for slain soldier’s family
Amaravati, May 11 (IANS) The Andhra Pradesh government on Sunday announced Rs 50 lakh ex gratia for the family of Army jawan M. Murali Naik, who was killed during the cross-border firing by the Pakistani forces along the Line of Control.
The state government also announced five acres of land and a 300 square yard house site for the family. It also decided to give job to a member of the family.
The announcements were made by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan after paying last respects to the jawan at Kallithanda hamlet of Gorantla mandal in Sri Sathya Sai district.
The Jana Sena leader also personally announced Rs 25 lakh assistance for Murali Naik's family.
The Deputy CM laid a wreath and paid homage to the martyred soldier. He also consoled the family of the 25-year-old jawan.
The actor-politician assured the family that the state and the Central governments would
extend all possible assistance to them.
Pawan Kalyan said a bronze statue of Murali Naik would be installed in the district headquarters.
Home Minister V. Anitha and Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh also paid their last respects to Murali Naik. Lokesh assured all support to his family.
The mortal remains of Murali Naik reached his home on Saturday. The body first arrived at Bengaluru Airport, where it was received by BC Welfare Minister S. Savitha.
Later, the slain soldier's body was shifted to Gorantla in a military convoy. En route to Naik's village, hundreds of people paid tributes by showering petals. The people, holding the Indian flag, were raising slogans of 'Murali Naik amar rahe'. Murali Naik, an Agniveer, was martyred in the firing by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir on the night of May 8. Naik, who hailed from a poor agricultural family of the tribal hamlet, was posted along the tense LoC in Jammu and Kashmir when the Pakistan Army resorted to ceasefire violations, launching heavy artillery and mortar attacks, post India's 'Operation Sindoor'.
Enough
rice, wheat, sugar, oil and pulses stock, no need to panic: Pralhad Joshi
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) The government on Friday reiterated that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the country, and citizens are advised not to panic or rush to the markets to purchase food grains.
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, emphasised that there are adequate stocks available in the country.
The current rice stock stands at 356.42 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) against a buffer norm of 135 LMT. Similarly, wheat stock is 383.32 LMT against a buffer norm of 276 LMT, demonstrating a strong
surplus over the required buffer norms, ensuring nationwide food security, the minister said.
"I want to assure everyone that we currently have stocks many times higher than the normal requirement - whether it is rice, wheat, or pulses such as chana, tur, masoor, or moong. There is absolutely no shortage, and citizens are advised not to panic or rush to the markets to purchase food grains," Joshi said.
In addition, India currently holds approximately 17 LMT of edible oil stocks. Domestically, the availability of mustard oil is ample during the ongoing peak production season, further supplementing the edible oil supply.
The ongoing sugar season started with a carry-over stock of 79 LMT. Production is estimated at 262 LMT, after accounting for the diversion of 34 LMT for ethanol production.
As of now, around 257 LMT of
sugar has already been produced. Considering the domestic consumption of 280 LMT and exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is expected to be around 50 LMT, which is more than the consumption of two months.
The production outlook for the 2025–26 sugar season is also promising due to favourable climatic conditions, the minister said.
The minister cautioned not to fall prey to misleading reports, and any person indulging in hoarding or stockpiling would be prosecuted under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act.
"Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. Traders, wholesalers, retailers or business entities which engage in the trading of essential commodities are directed to cooperate with law enforcement agencies," said Joshi.
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday assured the nation that there are sufficient food stocks and that the country is well-prepared to handle any emergencies.
His statement came in the wake of escalating tensions with neighbouring Pakistan.
Minister Chouhan emphasised that both the nation's defence forces and farmers are ready to ensure the country's security and food security.
He highlighted the significant increase in food grain production,
India-Pakistan tensions
with total output rising from 3,322.98 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24 to 3,474.42 lakh metric tonnes in the current year.
"Notably, rice production increased from 1,378.25 lakh metric tonnes to 1,464.02 lakh metric tonnes, and wheat production rose from 1,132 lakh metric tonnes to 1,154 lakh metric tonnes," the Union Minister stated.
He also reported growth in pulses and oilseeds production, with pulses increasing from 242 lakh metric tonnes to 250.97 lakh metric tonnes, and oilseeds from 296.69 lakh metric tonnes to 428.98 lakh metric tonnes.
"Additionally, horticultural crops such as potatoes, onions, and tomatoes showed positive growth," he said.
"As of May 8, the government had procured 539.88 lakh metric
tonnes of rice and 267.02 lakh metric tonnes of wheat, ensuring that buffer stocks are wellmaintained," he added.
Minister Chouhan reassured citizens that in case of any emergency, the government is fully prepared to manage the situation effectively.
Meanwhile, Union Food Processing Minister Chirag Paswan took to the social media platform X to inform the public about a review meeting he held with senior ministry officials in the national capital.
The meeting was focused on ensuring the availability of food products across the country.
"Today, I held a review meeting with senior ministry officials in New Delhi to ensure the availability of food products in the country. Jai Hind," he wrote on X.
Indian Oil, BPCL assure sufficient fuel supply amid
India-Pak tensions
statements, assuring citizens that the country has sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel and LPG.
They urged people not to indulge in panic buying, emphasising that supply chains remain fully functional across India.
Indian Oil, the country’s largest fuel retailer, took to social media to reassure the public that there is no disruption in fuel availability.
“Indian Oil wants to assure you that there is adequate availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG across the country. Our supply chains are operating smoothly, and all retail outlets have enough fuel
BJP holds ‘Tiranga Yatra’ in Ayodhya in honour of Indian armed forces
Ayodhya, May 15 (IANS) In a spirited display of nationalism and gratitude, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday organised a 'Tiranga Yatra' in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to mark the resounding success of 'Operation Sindoor' and to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces.
The Yatra, taken out in the holy city of Ramnagari Ayodhya, echoed with patriotic chants as slogans of "Jai Hind" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai" rang through the streets.
Beginning from Gandhi Park and making its way to the Chowk via Civil Lines, the procession was marked by a sea of national flags and enthusiastic participation from all walks of life.
Former BJP MP Lallu Singh, Ayodhya MLA Ved Prakash Gupta, Samajwadi Party's rebel MLA Abhay Singh, and members of the BJP Mahila Morcha joined the 'Tiranga Yatra', which turned into a powerful expression of unity and national pride.
Speaking to IANS, many participants praised the decisive military action taken by India in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives.
The precision strikes under
'Operation Sindoor' targeted high-value terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied-Kashmir, drawing widespread support from across the nation.
"Pakistan was shown its place. A country which fosters terrorism needed to be taught a lesson, and India gave a befitting response to the terrorist outfits that aim to disrupt peace and prosperity in India," said a retired Indian Army soldier who participated in the Yatra.
"Our forces have demonstrated that we will act firmly against terror groups and enemies of the nation. The soldiers have proved that those who provoke us will not be spared," he added.
Another participant, a retired Subedar Major, expressed deep pride in the capabilities of the Indian military.
"Indian armed forces have once again proven to be among the best in the world. They have shown that we will never back down and will always rise to fight terrorism and defend our nation," he said.
Several others echoed the sentiment, stating that the Yatra was a way to express respect for the soldiers who risk their lives to protect the country.
"We are here to honour our forces. Their valour and bravery have always safeguarded us and given Pakistan a fitting reply. We are proud of them and love our country, and that’s why we have gathered here today," said a local BJP supporter.
Remarks on Col Sofiya Qureshi: MP Minister Vijay Shah moves SC, seeks quashing of FIR
New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) Madhya
and LPG,” the company said in a post on X.
The company also appealed to consumers to avoid panicdriven stockpiling, stating that “By staying calm and avoiding unnecessary crowding, we can ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel for everyone.”
Echoing similar sentiments, BPCL -- India’s second-largest oil marketing company -- also confirmed that its fuel stations and LPG distributorships across the nation are operating without interruption.
Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah has moved the Supreme Court against an order of the MP High Court ordering registration of an FIR over his controversial remarks on Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. In suo moto proceedings, the Madhya Pradesh High Court on Wednesday ordered the Director General of Police (DGP) to register a criminal case against Shah under Sections 152, 196(1) (b), and 197 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) within four hours, and warned the DGP of contempt action in case of any delay in compliance.
A bench of Justices Atul Sreedharan and Anuradha Shukla of the MP High Court said that prima facie, an offence of promoting enmity between
different castes, religion and language was made out.
The Justice Sreedharan-led Bench opined that referring to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi as a "sister of terrorists" is an offence of hurting the sentiments and faith of the Muslim community.
Talking about Operation Sindoor, Vijay Shah, on Monday, had said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sent a "sister from the same community" as those in Pakistan to avenge the April 22 terror strike in Kashmir's Pahalgam. "PM Modi is striving for the society. Those who widowed our daughters (in Pahalgam), we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson," Shah had said. The distasteful remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, the Indian Army officer who briefed the media throughout Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, sparked nationwide outrage.
Following the incident, the Minister apologised from the "bottom of his heart" and said he respects the Armed Forces and mentioned Colonel Sofiya as "sister".
New Delhi/Mumbai, May 9 (IANS)
Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, state-run oil marketing companies Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) on Friday issued public
Traders vow to keep goods flowing in all circumstances amid tensions with Pakistan
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which represents 90 million traders, on Friday said the country’s entire trading community stands firmly with the government and the armed forces under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid the ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT
Secretary General and Member of Parliament from Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, said, “Just as our brave soldiers are guarding the borders, the traders of the nation are determined to act as soldiers on the economic front, ensuring that the country’s supply chain remains uninterrupted under all circumstances.”
Khandelwal said the Indian armed forces have responded to Pakistan’s nefarious actions with exemplary courage and strength, which is a matter of immense pride for the nation.
The current situation is akin to a state of war, and every citizen is standing in full solidarity with the government to ensure that Pakistan is taught a strong and lasting lesson.
He further clarified that there is no shortage of foodgrains or other essential items in the country. All commodities are abundantly available in the markets, and the government has adequate reserves. Therefore, no citizen needs to hoard or stockpile goods.
Just like during the COVID period, traders will not only maintain the supply chain but, if needed, also ensure delivery of essentials to people’s doorsteps.
Khandelwal assured that CAIT traders will strictly follow all government advisories and will not allow any room for panic, rumours, or unrest under any
circumstances.
Appealing to the traders, he said that patriotism is not only about emotions but also about discipline, patience, and faith in the government and armed forces. The authorities are vigilantly monitoring the situation and taking all necessary actions. At such a time, the trading community must act in an organised and responsible manner in the national interest.
CAIT has urged all traders to refrain from taking any marketrelated decisions independently and instead wait for official government guidance. This is the time to demonstrate unity, prudence, and patriotic commitment in service to the nation.
“Devotion to the motherland is not just an emotion -- it is a responsibility. And this responsibility will be fulfilled with full discipline and dedication by over 90 million traders across the country,” Khandelwal added.
Gurugram: Two arrested for murdering woman, dumping body stuffed in suitcase
Gurugram, May 8 (IANS) Two people have been arrested on the charges of killing a 33-year-old woman, stuffing her body into a suitcase and dumping it on the Gurugram-Faridabad road, police said on Thursday.
The accused were arrested on Wednesday.
The crime came to light after a passerby spotted the suitcase.
The police were informed, and an FIR was registered regarding murder at the Sushant Lok police station in Gurugram.
The deceased was identified as
Praveen alias Riya (33), a resident of the village Parksarkas, District Tiljala (West Bengal).
The accused were identified as Dinesh Kumar (22), a resident of village Indri, district Rampur (Uttar Pradesh), and Viplav Vishwas (26), a resident of village Pratappur, district Udham Singh Nagar (Uttarakhand).
The accused duo was currently residing in Sikanderpur village in Gurugram.
A team from the Crime Branch of Sector 40, led by Inspector Amit Kumar, nabbed the accused duo from the Sector 40 area on Wednesday, police said.
During interrogation, it came to the fore that on May 2, Dinesh met Riya near Sikanderpur Metro Station, Gurugram.
"Dinesh took the woman to his rented room in Sikanderpur, and
both of them consumed alcohol. A quarrel broke out between them over a money transaction. Enraged Dinesh smothered Riya to death," a spokesperson for the Gurugram Police said.
During the early hours on May 3, Dinesh stuffed Riya's body in a suitcase with the help of his associate Viplav and dumped it, the police spokesperson said. Dinesh works at a medical store in Gurugram, and Viplav is a personal driver in DLF Phase-3, Gurugram. The duo lived on rent in separate rooms in the same building in Sikandarpur village, Gurugram.
Earlier, the Gurugram Police had announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for anyone who identified the body.
Investigation is underway.
A promise in every penny: How PMJJBY is securing lives in rural India
Chhatarpur/Mandsaur, May 9 (IANS) In the heartlands of Madhya Pradesh, where life often flows with quiet resilience, a government scheme is silently scripting stories of hope, security, and survival. The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) -- a life insurance initiative launched by the government
led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ten years ago (May 9, 2015) -- has emerged as a safety net for thousands of families in districts like Chhatarpur and Mandsaur.
An annual premium of just Rs 436 is required to be paid for this scheme. With the modest amount annually, PMJJBY offers a life cover of Rs 2 lakh to beneficiaries between the ages of 18 and 50. The amount is small at a time when private insurance companies charge high premiums. However, the scheme with a modest amount can mean the difference between despair and dignity after a tragedy for families in rural India.
Masood Azhar should suffer, not die instantly: Former J&K DGP SP Vaid
Jammu, May 8 (IANS) Former Jammu & Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) S.P. Vaid said that terrorist attacks mastermind Masood Azhar should not die an easy death.
“We don’t want him dead just yet,” Vaid told IANS in an exclusive interview. “He should live to feel the pain and consequences of the terror he unleashed across India.”
The remark came in the wake of Azhar’s own statement, in which he said it would have been better had he died in the Indian airstrikes that killed several of his family members.
Vaid responded sharply, saying, “Let him suffer. He should live long enough to understand the pain he has caused to thousands of Indian families.”
Masood Azhar, the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), is one of India’s most wanted terrorists, responsible for several highprofile terror attacks, including the 2019 Pulwama bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel.
The recent Operation Sindoor, executed by the Indian armed forces, targeted terror
infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including facilities linked to JeM. Vaid, who has decades of experience tackling insurgency and cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, stated that eliminating terror camps was a strong message, but not a permanent solution.
“This is a long fight. Until the Pakistani Army and ISI are directly weakened, terrorism won’t go away. These strikes may create fear, but to truly end the threat, we have to dismantle the system that breeds and protects terrorists like Masood Azhar,” he said.
He also noted that Pakistan is now trying to portray the operation as an attack on civilians. “Pakistan never admits its casualties and builds a narrative of victimhood to shield itself from international pressure. But we know what we targeted, terror bases.”
Refuting the narrative that the strike was religiously charged, Vaid said: “This was not about religion. It was about justice. Terrorism has no faith. Masood Azhar’s ideology is one of hate and destruction, and he deserves to live with the consequences of his actions.”
With India’s message loud and clear, Vaid believes more such actions may be necessary in the future unless structural changes are made within Pakistan’s security and intelligence establishments.
India surpasses Germany to become world’s 3rd-largest producer of wind, solar energy
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) India is now the world's third-largest producer of wind and solar energy, surpassing Germany, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, said on Friday, adding that the country's solar power installed capacity reached 107.95 GW in April this year, from 82.64 GW in the same month last year, which is a 30.7 per cent growth.
Chhatarpur: Insurance with impact
For the people of Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh, PMJJBY isn’t just a policy -- it’s a promise. Across several districts, 234 death claim cases were settled under this scheme in the financial year 2024-25. A total amount of Rs 4.68 crore was disbursed to grieving families.
The State Bank of India (SBI) topped the list, handling 135 claims and disbursing Rs 2.70 crore, followed by Madhyanchal Gramin Bank with 73 claims and Rs 1.46 crore.
With 10 per cent of the global share, India's clean energy capacity continues to grow significantly under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the minister posted on X social media platform, adding that it is "a step closer to a sustainable future".
Also, the installed capacity of wind energy stood at 51.06 GW last month, from 46.16 GW in April 2024 -- a 10.6 per cent growth.
"Total renewable energy (nonfossil fuel) has reached 231.81 GW installed capacity in April, from 199.86 GW in April 2024 which is a
16 per cent annual increase," the Union Minister informed.
India is at the forefront of global energy transition and solar power alone has grown over 30 times in the last decade, as the country achieved renewable energy targets of 2030 eight years ahead of schedule.
The country achieved its 2030 renewable energy target of 200 GW in 2022 itself — eight years ahead of schedule. Last month, Joshi inaugurated the PV Module Testing and Calibration Lab at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) at Gwal Pahari in Haryana on the outskirts of the national capital. He termed the lab a pioneering facility for India and further highlighted that as Indian companies scale up the production of large modules, this lab will ensure that products meet the highest quality standards. In terms of manufacturing, solar module production has increased from 2 GW in 2014 to 80 GW, with a target of reaching 150 GW by 2030. Alongside solar progress, the minister also underscored the achievement of 50 GW in wind energy capacity.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to lift off to space station on June 8
New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) USbased company Axiom Space on Thursday announced a delay to its Mission-4 (Ax-4), which intended
to carry astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, set to become the first Indian ever to go to the International Space Station (ISS).
The mission earlier scheduled for launch on May 29, will now lift off from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on June 8 at 9:11 a.m. ET (6:41 pm IST), the company said.
Shukla, who will pilot the mission, will travel to ISS along with Commander Peggy Whitson (US), mission specialist Sławosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and mission specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary).
“Ax-4 represents a pivotal moment in the growth of commercial human spaceflight. For the first time in history, astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary will fly together to the International Space Station as part of a government-sponsored mission -- with each nation returning to human spaceflight after more than four decades,” Axiom said, in a statement. Confirming the delay, NASA said the shift is occurring to accommodate "launch opportunities for several upcoming missions".
Brazil expresses concern over India-Pak tensions; rejects all forms of terrorism
Brasilia, May 9 (IANS) The Government of Brazil, reiterating its stance on denouncing all forms of terrorism, expressed grave concern about the military actions in the Kashmir region following escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The remarks came after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the dastardly April 22 terror attack, which left 26 innocent civilians dead.
“As expressed in the statement of April 23 regarding the attack in Kashmir on the previous day, the Government of Brazil reiterates its repudiation of all acts of terrorism. Brazil calls on the parties involved to exercise the utmost restraint in order to prevent an escalation of tensions,” Foreign Ministry of Brazil said in a statement on Thursday.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
advises Brazilian nationals to refrain from non-essential travel to Kashmir and adjacent regions. Itamaraty is monitoring the situation of Brazilians in the area. There are no reports of Brazilian victims,” the statement added.
On Thursday, President Lula de Silva of Brazil called Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing support and solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism and conveying condolences at the loss of lives in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India.
“PM Modi thanked President Lula for his condolences. The two leaders reiterated their commitment to strengthen India- Brazil bilateral strategic partnership. PM conveyed his best wishes for Brazil’s successful Presidency of BRICS this year,”Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs posted on X.
Earlier condemning the Pahalgam terrorist attack Brazil extended its support to India.
“The Government of Brazil has learned with consternation of the attack that occurred in Pahalgam, in the Kashmir region, on April 22, which caused a large number of fatalities and injuries. The Government of Brazil reiterates
its repudiation of all acts of terrorism, offers its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, wishes the injured a full and swift recovery, and expresses its solidarity with the Government and the people of India,” the Foreign Ministry of Brazil said in a statement.
Hostilities between India and Pakistan intensified on Thursday after Pakistan's military attempted to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and some other locations with missiles and drones, all of which were neutralised by Indian armed forces.
Operation Sindoor was launched in the early hours of Wednesday, and the tri-services operation was conducted jointly by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 terror attack.
The Indian government said that it has exercised its right to respond to dastardly acts of terror emanating from the neighbouring nation. Operation Sindoor marks one of India's most assertive cross-border military responses since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
Kashish Chaudhary becomes first Hindu woman Assistant Commissioner of Balochistan
Quetta, May 14 (IANS) Pakistan's Kashish Chaudhary has created history by becoming the first Hindu woman appointed as an Assistant Commissioner of Balochistan.
Her remarkable achievement after successfully passing the highly competitive Balochistan Public Service Commission (BPSC)
examination at a notably young age is celebrated as a powerful symbol of inclusion, diversity, and meritocracy in the province.
She belongs to a remote town of Noshki in the district of Chagai in Balochistan.
Recognising her accomplishment, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti met Kashish along with her father, Girdhari Lal.
During the meeting matters of women's representation, minority community empowerment, and the overall development of Balochistan were discussed, local media reported.
PM Modi, LoP Gandhi greet Pope on election as new leader of Christian world
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday greeted new Pope Robert Francis Prevost on being elected as the global head of the Catholic Church and spiritual leader of the Christian community around the world, hoping his leadership will promote harmony and peace.
In a message to the new Pope, who will take the pontifical name of Leo XIV, PM Modi said in a post on X, “I convey sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.”
The PM also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and wrote, “His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service. India remains committed to continued dialogue and engagement with the Holy See to
further our shared values.”
Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi also extended wishes to the new Pope, the first to be born in the United States.
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV. May his leadership foster peace, compassion, and service to humanity. My best wishes to the global Catholic community on this joyous occasion,” said LoP Gandhi in a post on social media platform X.
American prelate Robert Francis Prevost was elected the new Pope on Thursday and addressing the cheering crowd in Italian, the new Pope said: "Peace be with all of you."
The Chicago-born Prevost, 69, a member of the Augustinian order and who had served extensively in Peru, was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America since 2023. He was appointed to the posts by Pope Francis, who elevated him as a Cardinal.
Significantly, he is the second successive Pope from the Americas after the Argentinianborn Pope Francis.
North Korea’s Kim says participation in Russia’s war against Ukraine justified
Seoul, May 10 (IANS) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said the North's deployment of troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine was justified, defending his country's participation in the war as an exercise of its sovereign rights, Pyongyang's state media reported on Saturday.
CM lauded her achievement and called her "a symbol of pride for not just Balochistan, but the entire nation."
"Kashish has proven that the daughters of Balochistan are second to none. Her success sends a strong message that talent and perseverance can emerge from even the most remote corners of our province," he said. In her remarks, Chaudhary emphasised her desire to advocate for youth, women, and marginalised communities as she expressed her commitment in serving the people of Balochistan.
Kim made the remarks during his visit to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang the previous day to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany during World War II, known as Victory Day, reports Yonhap, quoting the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Citing a mutual defence treaty signed last year with Russia, Kim said he issued the order to send the North's troops to Russia to "liberate" the Kursk front-line region as he was determined to faithfully implement the treaty. "Our participation in the war was justified, and this is within the realm of the exercise of our sovereign rights," Kim said during
a congratulatory speech, calling the North's troops engaged in combat against Ukraine "heroes."
Last month, North Korea acknowledged for the first time that it had dispatched troops to fight alongside Russia against Ukraine. Seoul's spy agency said the North has sent around 15,000 soldiers to Russia so far and is believed to have incurred more than 4,700 casualties, including some 600 deaths.
Claiming that Ukraine has invaded Russia's territory, the North's leader said he will not be hesitant to use North Korea's military forces if the United States and its vassal states seek to stage another attack against Russia. "If we neglect the Ukrainian puppet forces' move to bluntly take military action against the nuclear power's territory, they will be more recklessly brave. Then, Seoul's military, the topclass stooge of the US, would also increase its reckless bravado," Kim said.
Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with a military parade Friday, attended by foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Kim was widely expected to have been invited to the celebrations, but he did not visit Moscow, apparently due to security and logistics.
American-Jewish community thanks India for eliminating Islamist terrorist Abdul Rauf Azhar
Washington/New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) also brought the much-awaited justice to friends and family of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl.
Reports suggest that Islamist terrorist Abdul Rauf Azhar, a coconspirator in the 2002 abduction and brutal murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Pearl and also the IC-814 hijacking mastermind, was also among the dozens of terrorists eliminated in the counter-terrorism offensive that destroyed ‘Markaz Subhan Allah’, the JeM terror headquarters and training facility in Pakistan's Bahawalpur, on Wednesday.
Several noted personalities and people from all walks of life took to social media, are now thanking India for giving justice to Pearl by neutralising Azhar, brother of UN proscribed terrorist and Jaish-eMohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar.
"India delivered justice for the brutal murder of American-
Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl by eliminating Abdul Rauf Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and key conspirator behind Pearl’s kidnapping, torture, and beheading," American Activist Amy Mek posted on X.
"Abdul Rauf Azhar wasn't just a terrorist; he was the brother of Masood Azhar, JeM’s founder, and a mastermind behind some of the most heinous Islamic attacks. He conspired to murder Daniel Pearl," she added.
"Operation Sindoor struck at the heart of terror, hitting Jaish-eMohammed strongholds and sending a clear message: India will not stand by while radicals slaughter non-Muslims. To India, we say Thank You. Thank you for standing strong against Islamic terror and taking the fight directly to the jihadis,” Mek said further.
Former US Special Envoy Ellie Cohanim also extended her gratitude to the government of India
"For too long we did not see justice for the evil beheading of Daniel Pearl. Personally grateful to the government of India. Daniel Pearl forever memorialised by his last words echoing thousands of years of Jewish history & persecution: “My father is Jewish, my mother is Jewish, I am Jewish"," Cohanim posted on X.
American author Pamela Geller, international human rights Lawyer Arsen Ostrovsky and Israeli journalist Emily Schrader also took to social media, thanking India for fighting against Islamic terror.
“India Kills Muslim Terrorist Who Beheaded Jewish-American Wall Street Journal Reporter Daniel Pearl THANK YOU, INDIA!" Geller wrote.
The US authorities for long have been seeking justice for the kidnapping and brutal murder of Daniel Pearl.
"Thank you to our Indian friends for eliminating one of the key terrorists behind the 2002 execution of Danny Pearl. The Jewish and Indian people are two very proud nations, both fighting against the forces of Islamic terror," Ostrovsky posted on X. "Justice. Thank you India, for eliminating the monsters who beheaded Daniel Pearl," posted Schrader.
A key base for terrorist operations, the Bahawalpur site has been reduced to rubble. Masood Azhar, the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), is one of India’s most wanted terrorists, responsible for several highprofile terror attacks, including the 2019 Pulwama bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel.
EAM Jaishankar conveys wishes on Europe Day; highlights expansion of India, EU strategic partnership
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Friday extended his wishes to Kaja Kallas the Vice-President of the European Commission, and the European Union (EU) on Europe Day, appreciating the consistent growth of the Strategic Partnership between India and the EU.
“Greetings to EU High Representative/Vice President Kaja Kallas and the European Union on Europe Day. Value the steady expansion of our Strategic Partnership,” EAM posted on X. Earlier, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners, visited India from February 27 to February 28. This was the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners together to India.
The EU and India reinforced strategic ties during the landmark visit of the European Commission delegation to India in February.
Europe Day, held on May 9 every year, celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the
anniversary of the 'Schuman Declaration', a historic proposal made by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, in 1950 that laid out the foundation of European cooperation. Schuman's proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.
This year, the EU celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration and the 25th anniversary of the EU's motto: United in Diversity.
Meanwhile, as Pakistan fired several missiles on Indian cities, accelerating military tensions, EAM Jaishankar spoke to Kallas late Thursday, asserting India's strong resolve to firmly counter any escalations.
“Discussed ongoing developments with EU High Representative/ Vice President Kaja Kallas. India has been measured in its actions. However, any escalation will get a firm response,” EAM Jaishankar wrote on X.
On Thursday, the European Union (EU) and its 27 member states unequivocally condemned the heinous Pahalgam terrorist attack, stating that every state has the duty and the right to lawfully protect its citizens from acts of terror.
Asserting that terrorism can never be justified, the EU said that those responsible for the attack must be brought to justice.
Canadian
businessman
Maninder Sidhu appointed as International Trade Minister
Ottawa, May 14 (IANS) Canadian businessman Maninder Sidhu, who was a parliamentary secretary, has been appointed as International Trade Minister.
Sidhu, 41, who was sworn in as a minister on Tuesday, is an entrepreneur who runs his own international trade specialist business.
He says in his LinkedIn page that he “worked with businesses across Canada to provide strategic advice with a focus on trade, tariffs and growth opportunities”.
Elected to parliament in 2019, he did a short stint as the parliamentary secretary to the Foreign Minister.
Sidhu next parlayed his business experience to become the parliamentary secretary to the International Trade Minister and has now jumped to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet, assuming that portfolio.
He said in an X post that Carney has placed his confidence in him “to diversify trade, support Canadian businesses in reaching new global markets, and help
The remarks came after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the dastardly April 22 terror attack, which left 26 innocent civilians dead.
“The EU is monitoring closely and with great concern the growing tensions in the region and the ensuing consequences, including the possible loss of more lives. The EU calls on both parties to exercise restraint, to de-escalate tensions and desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides,” the EU said in its statement. “The EU urges both sides to engage in dialogue. It is vital that India and Pakistan also live up to their obligations under international law and take all measures possible to protect civilian lives. The EU will work with all parties to de-escalate the situation,” it added. Last month, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also offered her deepest condolences over the "vile" terror attack. “The vile terror attack in Pahalgam stole so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to PM Narendra Modi and every Indian heart grieving today. Yet I know that India’s spirit is unbreakable. You will stand strong in this ordeal. And Europe will stand with you,” she posted on X.
create good-paying jobs across Canada”.
Before his appointment, he said on Facebook about his future mission, “Canada is a trading nation — and we must strengthen and expand the infrastructure that connects us to global markets”.
Sidhu and Foreign Affairs
Minister Anita Anand are two Canadians of Indian descent with international-focused portfolios.
Carney has appointed Anita Ananda to the powerful post of Foreign Minister in his new cabinet charged with fulfilling the “mandate for change”.
One of Anand’s missions will be to pilot the reset of the almost ruptured ties with India that Carney signalled, while managing the delicate relations with President Donald Trump’s America.
Announcing the new cabinet of 28 ministers, he instructed them to "bring new ideas, a clear focus and decisive actions to their work”.
Anand, who was the transport minister and had earlier held the defence portfolio, said in January that she was leaving politics and returning to academia.
But Carney persuaded her to return to the cabinet and take the foreign affairs portfolio after she was re-elected in last month’s election.
American prelate Robert Prevost elected New Pope
Rome, May 8 (IANS) American prelate Robert Francis Prevost was elected the new Pope on Thursday.
The Chicago-born Prevost, 69, a member of the Augustinian order and who had served extensively in Peru, was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America since 2023. He was appointed to the posts by Pope Francis, who elevated him as a Cardinal.
He will take the pontifical name of Leo XIV.
Significantly, he is the second successive Pope from the Americas after the Argentinianborn Pope Francis.
There was eager wait to find who was the new Pope would be, as trademark white smoke billowed out of the chimney high
above St Peter's Square in the evening to signify the conclave of the Cardinals had selected the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away last month.
Joy erupted among the clergy and laity awaiting a decision, and all eyes were on the balcony, awaiting the first appearance of the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Addressing the cheering crowd in Italian, the new Pope said: "Peace be with all of you."
"Brothers and sisters dearest, this is the first greeting of Christ resurrected. I would like to offer a greeting of peace to reach your families, all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you," he said, the BBC reported.
The 133 cardinals making up this conclave, taking place in the Sistine Chapel, had reassembled after a lunch break following this morning's inconclusive ballots. A new pope requires a two-thirds majority - which translates to 89 votes in this conclave. The average length of time for the last few conclaves was three days and seven ballots, as per the BBC.
Albanese urges elected party MPs to have ‘laser-like’ focus on working for Australians
Canberra, May 9 (IANS) Prime
Minister Anthony Albanese has urged the elected Members of Parliament (MPs) of his Labor Party to maintain a focus on working for all Australians after winning re-election.
Albanese on Friday convened
the Labor caucus, comprising all of the party's elected members of both houses of parliament, in Canberra for the first time since winning a second term in power at last Saturday's federal election in a landslide result.
Addressing the caucus, Albanese welcomed the party's new elected parliamentarians to Canberra and asked members of both houses to retain a "laser-like focus" on working for the Australians who voted for them and those who did not.
"We want to see them lifted up, and given opportunity," Albanese said. "We seek power in order to deliver for the people who need Labor to be in government."
Albanese said on Friday that parliament will return at the end of July at which time he said his first priority would be introducing legislation for Labor's election pledge to cut higher education student debts by 20 percent.
The PM will on Monday announce the cabinet of his second term before a swearing-in ceremony with Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Tuesday, Xinhua news agency reported.
It was revealed on Thursday that Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and Science and Industry Minister Ed Husic, both members of Albanese's cabinet during his first term as prime minister, will not be part of the new cabinet
Relationship between Australia and India ‘never been stronger’, says Albanese after speaking with PM Modi
Canberra, May 6 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday said that the relationship between Australia and India has never been stronger and said that he is looking forward to working with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coming years to build a prosperous future for the region.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had dialled Albanese, congratulating him on his party's landslide victory in Saturday's General Election. "Thank you for the
call Prime Minister Narendra Modi and for your warm congratulations. The relationship between Australia and India has never been stronger. I look forward to working with you over the coming years to build a prosperous future for our region," Albanese said in a post on X. During the telephone conversation, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Albanese on his historic re-election as the 32nd Prime Minister of Australia. "Spoke with my friend Anthony Albanese to personally congratulate him on his party’s historic victory. We agreed to work together with renewed vigour to advance the IndiaAustralia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore new areas of cooperation," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call.
According to the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA), both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between the two countries. They noted that in its five years, the CSP has seen robust cooperation developing across a diverse range of sectors. They stressed on the role played by the vibrant Indian origin diaspora in cementing bilateral ties.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to working together in promoting a free, open, stable, rules-based and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
"Prime Minister invited PM Albanese to visit India including for the Annual Summit and the QUAD Summit to be hosted in India later in the year. The leaders agreed to remain in touch," the MEA stated.
PM Albanese, ministers sworn in following election victory
Canberra, May 13 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his ministers have been sworn in after the Labor Party won a second term in power at the federal election. Albanese, his Cabinet, outer
ministry and assistant ministers were officially sworn in to their roles by Governor-General Sam Mostyn, the representative of the British monarchy in Australia, at a ceremony at Government House in Canberra on Tuesday morning.
During the ceremony, the 42 members of the ministry took an oath of office, declaring that they will "well and truly serve" the Commonwealth of Australia in their respective offices, reports Xinhua news agency.
The 42 members consist of 23 members of the Cabinet, the innermost sanctum of the government, seven members of the outer ministry and 12 assistant ministers.
The Cabinet and outer ministry is largely unchanged from the end of Albanese's first term, with the
Sussan Ley becomes first woman to lead Liberal Party
Canberra, May 13 (IANS) Sussan
Ley has been appointed as the leader of the Liberal Party, becoming the first woman to lead the federal party in its 80-year history.
She defeated her rival Angus Taylor in a tight party room ballot, taking over as Australia's first female opposition leader, according to local media report.
Ley took over the position from former opposition leader Peter Dutton.
The Liberal-National coalition, which is presently Australia's main opposition party, suffered a historic defeat in the elections on May 3.
Dutton, who led the coalition, also became the first federal leader of an opposition to lose his own parliamentary seat, Australian news agency ABC reported.
In an address to the nation as the leader for the first time, Ley said she planned to "do things differently" and would adopt a "fresh approach" after the coalition's massive election loss. Later speaking to reporters
PM
vast majority of senior leadership figures continuing in their roles, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles, Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong.
Announcing the list of ministers on Monday, Albanese said that it was the largest Labor caucus -- referring to the number of the party's politicians elected to the federal parliament -- in history following the landslide result at the May 3 election.
He said the ministers and party had an "extraordinary opportunity" to change Australia "for the better." "I am deeply humbled by the trust that was put into my government with the election, and we certainly won't take it for granted," he said.
gathered in the Liberal party room, she said she was humbled, honoured and "up for the job."
"I want to harness the talents of every single person in our party room going forward to develop the clear, articulate policy agenda that does meet Australians where they are," she said.
Taylor congratulated Ley, stating that her success was a milestone for the party, which needed to come together.
"The Liberal Party has suffered a historic defeat, and we have lost many good people in this election. This result shows we must do more to convince Australians that the coalition is the best party to support aspiration, economic opportunity, and the Australian dream," he said.
Meanwhile, Ley dismissed the claims that her appointment to the Liberal leadership is an example of the "glass cliff effect."
The glass cliff effect refers to women being more likely to be appointed to leadership positions when an organisation is in a precarious position, ABC reported.
"I don't accept that. I do say it sends a signal to the women of Australia that the Liberal Party has elected its first woman leader, but my agenda is much more than that. It's about connecting with women and listening to where we went wrong," she said.
Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party wins landslide victory in election
Canberra, May 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's centre-left Labor Party has won a second term in power in Australia's federal election.
Labor Party on Saturday night retained power in a landslide election victory that is set to deliver the party its most seats in the lower house of the federal parliament, where the government is formed, in history, according to projections from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
It makes Albanese the first leader of either major party to win consecutive elections since 2004, Xinhua news agency reported.
Delivering his victory speech at a Labor event in his native Sydney, Albanese described serving as Prime Minister as the "greatest honour" of his life.
"Australians have chosen to face global challenges the Australian way, looking after each other while building for the future," he said.
Albanese pledged to "govern for
all Australians" and said that the re-elected government would spend "every day" of the next three years repaying voters' trust.
"We take out this task with new hope, new confidence and new determination. Together we are turning a corner and together we will make our way forward," he said.
"This is a time of profound opportunity for our nation. We have everything we need to seize this moment and make it our own, but we must do it together."
As of 10:45 p.m. local time, the ABC projected that Labor Party was likely to win at least 87 of the 150 seats in the lower house of the 48th Parliament, surpassing the party's record-high of the 86 seats it won in the 1986 election.
The official count conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission put Labor ahead of the conservative Coalition of the Liberal and National Parties 56.4-43.6 on a two-party basis as of Saturday night, with voters swinging towards the government across the country.
Among the seats won by Labor was that of Dickson in Brisbane's north, which had been held by Opposition leader Peter Dutton since 2001.
From the editor’s desk
Operation Sindoor: India steps boldly into the global power arena
India’s swift and successful execution of Operation Sindoor marks a pivotal moment in the country’s strategic evolution — not just as a regional power, but as a global force with the will and capacity to shape international events. The rescue mission, which brought back 96 Indian nationals from a conflictridden zone in northern Israel during one of the region’s most volatile periods, was conducted with precision, diplomatic finesse, and military readiness.
It has left no doubt that India has arrived — and that it’s ready to protect its people, project its values, and participate assertively in global affairs.
In recent years, India has gradually expanded the scope of its strategic ambitions, moving beyond a reactive posture to a more proactive one. Operation Sindoor encapsulates this shift. With the Indian Air Force’s C-17 Globemaster aircraft flying deep into a region still under threat from Hezbollah rocket fire, this was not just a mission of mercy; it was a signal — to friends and adversaries alike — that India is willing to take calculated risks to uphold its sovereign responsibility towards its citizens.
What sets Operation Sindoor apart from earlier missions like Operation Rahat (Yemen, 2015) or Operation Ganga (Ukraine, 2022) is its quiet confidence. There was no overhyped media spectacle. The operation was executed with military discipline and diplomatic subtlety. India coordinated not just with Israeli authorities but also relied on intelligence, planning, and onground cooperation to navigate one of the most complex conflict zones. This restraint coupled with success speaks volumes about the maturity of India's evolving global posture.
Strategically, this operation adds another feather in the cap of India’s image as a dependable democratic power in an increasingly unstable world. In the backdrop of the RussiaUkraine war, the Gaza conflict, and tensions in the Indo-Pacific, nations are looking for allies that can be trusted not only to speak but to act. With Operation Sindoor, India has demonstrated that it has both the intent and infrastructure to act swiftly when required — whether it’s
Farewell to the global giants: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Test retirement marks the end of an era
to safeguard its own people or support a humanitarian cause.
For the Indian diaspora, especially in regions where geopolitical tensions can turn volatile overnight, Operation Sindoor sends a clear message: India will come for you. This commitment has a ripple effect — enhancing India’s soft power, increasing trust in its governance, and reinforcing its image as a responsible global actor. It also boosts morale within the armed forces and civilian institutions, showing them that their efforts have real-world, life-saving consequences.
From the perspective of international diplomacy, such operations give India additional leverage in bilateral and multilateral dialogues. Countries that saw India’s efficiency in action will be more inclined to see New Delhi as a partner in managing crises. For instance, in the Middle East — a region crucial for India’s energy security, trade, and expatriate workforce — this operation may help deepen trust, leading to stronger strategic and economic cooperation.
But the operation is not just about symbolism. It also reflects years of investment in building military transport capabilities, nurturing diplomatic ties, and strengthening civil-military coordination. The ability to mobilize assets quickly, plan an evacuation through hostile skies, and ensure safe passage without becoming embroiled in the ongoing conflict is no small feat.
Critically, this action comes at a time when the world order is shifting. With the West increasingly divided and traditional powers reluctant to engage in direct conflict, the emergence of middle powers like India becomes vital to global stability. India’s stand — rooted in strategic autonomy and humanitarian responsibility — sets a new precedent in global crisis management.
Operation Sindoor may have been a rescue mission on the surface, but in essence, it was a declaration: India will act — not just for itself, but for the ideals it believes in. The world will not look at India the same way again. And India must now be ready to shoulder the expectations that come with this new status.
Indian cricket stands at a crossroads. The retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket is not merely the departure of two accomplished players; it’s the curtain call on a chapter that defined an era of global dominance. These two cricketers were not just performers—they were architects of India's rise as a formidable Test side, capable of winning across continents and competing fearlessly against the best in the world. From the spinning pitches of India to the seaming conditions of England and the bouncy tracks of Australia, Rohit and Kohli have left their mark on almost every cricketing arena. Their legacy goes far beyond runs and records. It lies in the belief they instilled in an entire generation: that Indian cricket could command respect anywhere in the world. Virat Kohli’s entry into the Test arena in 2011 came at a time when India was seeking fresh leadership and drive. He quickly transformed from a promising batsman into one of the most dominant Test players of the modern era. Known for his hunger, discipline, and intensity, Kohli’s batting prowess made him a nightmare for bowlers across conditions. His performances abroad truly define his greatness. Kohli’s 141 at Adelaide in 2014, where he almost single-handedly dragged India towards an impossible target, was a signal of things to come. His centuries in England in 2018— especially against the swinging Dukes ball—put to rest all doubts about his ability in testing overseas conditions. In Australia, he led from the front not only with the bat but also with attitude, ensuring India did not take a step back in any confrontation. What made Kohli different was his unrelenting attitude. He believed in mental domination. His confrontational style wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it injected a new kind of selfconfidence into the team. Under his leadership, India never looked like tourists abroad; they played like contenders. He was instrumental in building one of the fittest, most aggressive Test teams India has ever produced.
Unlike Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s Test journey was delayed and at times frustrating. For years, he was considered a white-ball specialist. However, when opportunity finally came—especially as a Test opener starting in 2019—he grabbed it with both hands. The transformation was dramatic and inspiring.
Rohit’s technique, patience, and classical style made him an elegant foil to Kohli’s fire. His hundred at The Oval in 2021 remains one of India’s most cherished overseas knocks in recent memory. Battling overcast skies, disciplined bowling, and the pressure of opening in England, Rohit showcased maturity,
control, and resolve—hallmarks of a seasoned Test cricketer.
In Australia, too, Rohit’s calmness at the top of the order helped lay solid foundations. Though he may not have as many centuries abroad as Kohli, his impact was immense. His ability to adapt, anchor innings, and play long periods showcased that Indian batsmen could master even the toughest conditions if given time and clarity of role.
As captain, Rohit brought a different vibe—calm, calculated, and composed. While Kohli led with his heart, Rohit brought balance and stability. He trusted his players, rotated his bowlers smartly, and made brave, tactical decisions.
Together, Rohit and Kohli made India a fearsome Test side abroad—a reputation long overdue. From the historic series win in Australia in 2018-19 (under Kohli’s captaincy before his departure on paternity leave) to dominating England at Lord’s and The Oval, these two were central to India’s emergence as a world Test power.
In South Africa, while series wins eluded India, individual brilliance from both batsmen shone through. Kohli’s resilience at Centurion and Rohit’s application in challenging conditions were proof that Indian batsmen had evolved. They no longer crumbled when the ball moved or bounced—they adapted, survived, and counter-attacked.
In New Zealand, although results weren’t always favourable, the experience of playing in swinging conditions added to their growth. Kohli and Rohit ensured that Indian batsmen learned how to counteract green-tops with patience and planning.
At home, their dominance was near-absolute. Kohli’s double centuries, Rohit’s marathon innings, and their understanding of spin conditions made India almost unbeatable in the subcontinent. Their consistency ensured that India maintained its top Test ranking for several years.
While their batting heroics drew headlines, their leadership transformed Indian cricket. Kohli revolutionised fitness standards. He brought in Yo-Yo tests, intense training regimens, and demanded peak performance. This created a culture of excellence that permeated the squad.
Rohit, on the other hand, brought a sense of calm leadership. His approach to captaincy was rooted in trust and empowerment. He gave bowlers the freedom to express, backed out-of-form players, and made strategic decisions that often turned matches around.
Both players handled pressure with grace. Whether it was criticism from fans or scrutiny from media, they never shied away from responsibility. They
took defeats on the chin and led from the front during victories. Their departure leaves more than just a statistical void. It leaves a vacuum in mindset, experience, and inspiration. India loses two players who not only scored runs but also guided others, absorbed pressure, and set the tone in dressing rooms.
Their replacements—talented as they may be—will need time to grow into those shoes. Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad represent the future, but the transition will be challenging. Test cricket is a format that rewards patience and punishes impulsiveness. Kohli and Rohit mastered this balance. The next generation must do the same. Beyond Indian borders, the international cricket community mourns this retirement. In an age when Test cricket is constantly battling for relevance against the spectacle of T20s, Kohli and Rohit were torchbearers of the red-ball game. Kohli, in particular, often spoke about Test cricket being the “purest form of the game.” His passion was evident every time he took the field in white.
Their absence will impact rivalries. India vs Australia, India vs England, India vs South Africa—these will feel different without Kohli’s intensity and Rohit’s artistry. Broadcasters, fans, and pundits will miss the spectacle these two provided. When the story of modern Indian cricket is written, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will have their own towering chapters. They inspired millions—not just with their talent but with their journeys. Kohli, the aggressive youth who became a disciplined icon. Rohit, the elegant stylist who proved patience was as valuable as flair.
They taught Indian cricket how to win with courage, lead with character, and lose with dignity. Their contributions go beyond runs and centuries—they redefined what it meant to be an Indian Test cricketer on the global stage.
As they step away from the redball format, they leave behind more than statistics—they leave behind a dream that they helped make real: India, as a global Test powerhouse.
India’s Operation Sindoor forces Pakistan to own its terror proxies, world cannot stay silent
New Delhi, May 11 (IANS)
Operation Sindoor is a success as it has brought Pakistan to its knees and helped India starkly expose the neighbouring country's grooming of terror gangs and complicity in global terrorism.
The operation was not just a tribute to the victims of terror or an act of vengeance for the deaths in Pahalgam - it is a symbol of the fight against terrorism that Pakistan has been unleashing not only in India but also across other countries.
The operation has revealed bitter truths about Pakistan - something that even the US operation to eliminate Osama Bin Laden could not fully expose, particularly the Pakistan Army's role in nurturing terrorist groups. These gangs have unleashed terror in India for decades, killing hundreds of innocent civilians and causing the ethnic cleansing of Hindus from Kashmir.
India has repeatedly informed
the world about Pakistan's involvement in various terror attacks across the country. New Delhi has provided substantial evidence, the most significant being Ajmal Kasab, the terrorist captured alive during the Mumbai attacks on November 26, 2008, and proof of the Pulwama terror attack. India has also consistently warned the global community about Pakistan's designs in Kashmir - a sinister campaign it has pursued since 1947, and the latest incident is the Pahalgam massacre.
Unfortunately, the world has largely turned a blind eye. There have been statements, but no concrete action has been taken against what is essentially a terror factory. While the United Nations and several countries have designated individual Pakistani terrorists, they have stopped short of labelling the country itself. Operation Sindoor has provided irrefutable proofevidence too strong to ignore.
The operation was launched on May 7 in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which killed 26 civilians. The attack was quickly claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba
(LeT), which emerged after the abrogation of Article 370 in J&K in August 2019.
The close ties between Pakistan and TRF became evident during discussions about the Pahalgam attack at the United Nations Security Council. Pakistan played a key role in removing the group's name from the UNSC's condemnation statement. If Pakistan had no connection to the attack, why the agitation over naming the group?
Under Operation Sindoor, Indian Armed Forces targeted terrorist infrastructure at nine specific locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. All these sites were known terror bases, and several designated terrorists were neutralised.
Videos and photographs surfaced showing Abdur Rauf, a USdesignated terrorist, leading prayers for those killed in the strike on the LeT's headquarters in Muridke. The funeral was attended by military officers in uniform. The terrorists were given "state honours" - draped in the Pakistani national flag, saluted by army officers, and one coffin even received a floral wreath from the Pakistan Army Chief.
In the initial phase of Operation Sindoor, five terrorists, assigned key roles in Jaish-e-Mohammed and LeT - were eliminated. They were identified as Mudassar Khadian Khas, Hafiz Muhammed Jameel, Mohammad Yusuf Azhar, Khalid alias Abu Akasha, and Mohammad Hassan Khan. Senior Pakistani military officers attended their funerals. The photos and videos have gone viral, further exposing the decades-old nexus between Pakistan's military and terrorist organisations.
In perhaps the most damning admission, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, provided undeniable proof by admitting in a television interview that Pakistan had funded and supported terrorist groups for decades, especially during the US-led wars in Afghanistan. Asif described this involvement as "dirty work" done for the United States and the West, including the UK.
Going even further, Asif told Parliament that these terrorists constitute Pakistan's "second line of defence," and that “students of madrasas would be deployed when needed.”
It is also telling that the Director General of Inter-Services Public
Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry - the man briefing the world on India-Pakistan tensions - is the son of a declared terrorist, Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood, a known aide of Osama bin Laden.
Operation Sindoor has laid bare how Pakistan's political and military establishments are dangerously intertwined with jihadist and terrorist elements. It is time for the world to sit up and take notice.
The evidence is overwhelming - Pakistan is a rogue terror state that weaponises religion to further its agenda. India's operation has dismantled Pakistan's terror network in ways the Americans could not. It proves that India has the capacity to make Pakistan bend.
Operation Sindoor is not just a tribute to the women who lost their husbands in Pahalgam - it is a bold demonstration of the real Shakti of India's defence forces and political resolve. It reveals evidence that Pakistan's state policy favours terrorism. Can the world ignore the Operation Sindoor proofs?
(Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
India’s retaliatory action against Pak-directed terror attack in Pahalgam
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump unequivocal condemnation of the terrorist killings of innocent tourists at Pahalgam and a similar response from President Putin of Russia, no doubt strengthened India’s hands in its successful attempt to create a long-term deterrence against Pakistan.
Amidst the period of preparation taken by India, an element of surprise was maintained when India unleashed multiple ‘Balakote type’ of military strikes ‘in one go’ on nine terror bases and training complexes across the LoC and Indo-Pak border in the early hours of May 7, in pursuit of its declared strategy of targeting only the terror establishments not the Pakistan army entities. India has, at the same time, retained the right to hunt out the likes of Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar wherever they might have been sheltered by the army.
Details of the action taken by India were presented by Col. Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika the following morning -they were closely associated with the planning of the counter-terror action.
The ‘daughters’ of India seemed to be at the forefront in avenging the ‘widowhood’ inflicted by terrorists on so many women at Pahalgam.
'Operation Sindoor’ was an Intelligence-based project, and in terms of precision of strikes and coordination among the defence forces, it was planned and executed by India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, with unprecedented perfection.
It is good to know that geopolitically, Indo-US relations rest on a solid footing because of President Trump’s unmitigated denunciation of ‘Islamic terror’he made an early announcement of visa restrictions on countries and regions that fostered this kind of terror- and a definite role he envisaged for India in his new strategy of countering China. India has rightly upgraded its profile in the Quad, and this was reflected in the joint statement released after the Quad Foreign Ministers' meet held at Washington on January 22 this year.
The statement not only reiterated that they all stood for a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’ that upheld ‘rule of law, democratic values and territorial integrity’ but also emphasised the importance of the next Quad summit meeting being hosted by India later this year.
Unlike President Biden, who seemed to take no notice of the Pak-Afghan belt harbouring Islamic radical forces, President Trump’s zero tolerance towards Islamic terror would draw his
close attention to this region, particularly in the context of the aftereffects of the strategic SinoPak alliance.
India and the US are the largest and the oldest democracies, and they together lead the democratic world, threatened by faith-based terror on one hand and dictatorial regimes on the other. On geopolitical and strategic issues, there is a natural convergence between these two countries.
The support from Russia in the context of Pahalgam marks the integral backing of the international community to India’s resolute moves to stand against terrorism. Russia, it may be mentioned, was at the receiving end of an attack by ISIS-K on a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow in March last year, in which 135 people were killed and nearly 500 more injured.
Incidentally it may be mentioned that President Trump’s ’America First’ policy in diplomatic, economic and strategic spheres was largely dictated by his acute awareness that China- drawing lessons from the demise of Soviet Union- had consciously taken to the economic route to becoming the second superpower, that US had run into adverse balance of trade with many countries and that the ‘war like’ conflicts embracing Europe, Middle East and South Asia were proving to be an unnecessary drag on the US.
Trump's Presidency this time around is preoccupied with administrative reforms through
the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE ) under Elon Musk and concentrating on costcutting measures with particular reference to the discarding of the funding of all Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) projects of the Biden Administration. From all indications Modi regime is handling India’s relations with the US in a diplomatically mature, internationally sound and economically stable perspective, without getting affected by ‘narratives’ of India playing second fiddle to the US or not responding firmly enough to Trump’s policies on immigration and trade.
President Trump, despite the label of ‘unpredictability’ carried by him, has an uncanny sense of importance that India’s strategic and economic support to America had, in the pursuit of his ‘Make America Great Again’(MAGA) campaign. Prime Minister Modi upheld the call when he visited the White House in February this year and, in a subtle way, reminded Trump that even India wanted ‘Make India Great Again’ but without permitting any contradictions to develop in the Indo-US cooperation on that count.
The terror attack by Pak-directed Lashkare Toiba infiltrants who killed 26 Hindus on April 22 at Pahalgam, is rightly being compared to 26/11 Mumbai attack of LeT- the Modi government has responded by granting a free hand to the defence forces in planning and executing the retaliatory action.
It is obligatory for India to eliminate the terrorist bases and the entire leadership of terrorists on a continual basis and call out the Pakistani army’s hand behind the Pahalgam massacre. This has to be done with international support that Indian diplomacy is fully competent to achieve, notwithstanding the pro-Pak stance of China. Pakistan is not going to give up on using terrorism -with faith-based motivation -as a cost-effective instrument of state policy to bleed India and this country therefore has to create a standing deterrence by way of cross border strikes whenever these would be needed- presuming that Pakistan in its desperation can escalate the conflict by attacking our military targets as well.
Finally, after Pahalgam terror attack it is advisable to put J&K in charge of a senior civilian of national security and intelligence background who commanded respect of the Defence services, had a good idea of the separatist and pro-Pakistan forces active in this border state and professionally knew the ways and means of activating the flow of local intelligence. After the terror attack at Pahalgam and the retaliatory strikes made by India, J&K has strategically become more important than ever before.
(The writer is a former Director Intelligence Bureau)
Pakistan a hub of state-sponsored terror & WMD threat, says Indian High Commissioner
Canberra, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a candid interview with Stephen Dziedzic of ABC News, India's High Commissioner to Australia, Gopal Baglay, issued a strong indictment of Pakistan’s continued role in fostering terrorism and destabilising regional security. He described Pakistan as hosting an "Unholy Trinity"—a combination of antiIndia state policy, a clandestine Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) programme, and statesponsored terrorism.
High Commissioner Baglay drew attention to Pakistan’s decadeslong strategy of waging a proxy war on India through what he called a "thousand-year war"
doctrine, with the intent to "bleed India through a thousand cuts."
He said this strategy has enabled cross-border terrorism for over forty years, protected under Pakistan’s nuclear umbrella.
“Pakistan serves as the ‘silk route’ of global terror,” Baglay stated, highlighting its role in facilitating terrorism beyond the region. He also unveiled what he referred to as Pakistan’s "3-D strategy"— Deny, Deflect, and Delay— used systematically to evade accountability for the presence of terrorist infrastructure within its territory.
Recalling the Bali bombings of 2002 and 2005, in which Australian lives were lost, and the recent Pahalgam terror attack of April 2025, Baglay underlined the global cost of terrorism and placed full responsibility for the escalation on Pakistan.
The High Commissioner dismissed any notion of
equivalence between India and Pakistan as nuclear powers. He pointed out that India follows a clearly stated "No First Use" policy and has maintained transparency in its nuclear doctrine, in stark contrast to Pakistan’s opaque and illicit nuclear development, which he said poses a serious threat to global security.
He also criticised certain international narratives that blur the distinction between terrorist perpetrators and victims, calling for more consistent and factbased reporting of cross-border terrorism inflicted on India.
Concluding the interview, Baglay reaffirmed India’s peaceful and developmental vision. “India remains committed to becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047 and will continue to work with partners like Australia for regional prosperity and global good,” he said.
Global stage set for Hindi Olympiad 2025
Registrations open for international students and teachers
Sydney, April 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Hindi Olympiad Foundation, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), has announced the launch of the International Hindi Olympiad 2025 and the Amrit Kumbh Samman 2025, inviting participation from students and teachers across the globe.
This prestigious initiative aims to promote Hindi language learning and celebrate linguistic excellence on an international platform. The Olympiad offers a unique opportunity for students and educators outside India to demonstrate their proficiency and passion for Hindi, while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation. International students can
Canberra marks Rabindranath Tagore’s 164th birth anniversary with cultural tributes
Canberra, May 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian High Commission in Canberra, in collaboration with the Bengali Cultural Association of Canberra, recently commemorated the 164th birth anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore with an evening rich in reflection, reverence, and cultural celebration.
Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, along with renowned Australian scholar Dr. John Hood, shared heartfelt remarks on the enduring impact of Tagore’s life, literary brilliance, and global legacy. They highlighted Tagore's
universal message of humanism, creativity, and cultural harmony. The event featured captivating cultural performances in Bangla by members of the Indian-origin Bengali community, bringing alive Tagore’s poetic spirit and the depth of Indian civilisation. Songs, poetry recitations, and dance performances offered a fitting tribute to the Nobel laureate and his timeless contributions to literature, music, and philosophy.
The gathering served as a vibrant reminder of Gurudev Tagore’s lasting influence across cultures and generations, reinforcing the strong cultural ties between India and Australia.
Consul General explores deeper India-Australia education ties with Griffith University
Brisbane, May 8 (Indian Abroad Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia recently held a productive meeting with Marnie Watson, vice president (Global), and her team at Griffith University, Gold Coast.
register through the official link: https://hindiolympiad.net/hofint, while schools located outside India can register at https:// hindiolympiad.net/int25-schools. The event is expected to draw wide participation from Hindi learners and educators globally, further strengthening the role of Hindi as a language of global communication and cultural pride.
The discussions focused on enhancing the India-Australia education and knowledge partnership, with emphasis on strengthening institutional collaborations and exploring new opportunities for academic and research exchange.
Indian diaspora in Australia holds prayer meet for Pahalgam terror victims
Canberra, May 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Thirteen days after the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian community in Australia came together in a solemn prayer meet to honour the memory of the 26 victims and express solidarity with their families and the people of India.
Organised by various Indian community organisations, the
gathering was attended by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay and officials from the Indian High Commission. The event brought together people from diverse religious, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds, including international participants from several countries, united in their condemnation of terrorism.
Speakers at the prayer meet called for justice, demanding that those responsible for planning,
Cycling for a Cause
Sahil
supporting, and executing the April 22 attack be held accountable. The atmosphere was one of shared grief and resilience, reflecting the unity and strength of the Indian diaspora during times of tragedy.
The prayer meet served as a powerful reminder of the global Indian community’s unwavering stand against terrorism and its continued commitment to peace and justice.
Jha honoured in Canberra for Save Soil journey
Canberra, May 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a tribute to environmental advocacy and personal determination, Sahil Jha was recently honoured by the Indian
High Commission in Canberra for his remarkable 1500 km cycling journey across Australia in support of the global Save Soil movement.
The event, which highlighted
the urgency of soil conservation and climate action, featured former Queensland Governor Penny Wensley AC as the Guest of Honour. Attendees praised Jha's inspiring effort as a symbol
of youth-led commitment to sustainability.
Hosted at the High Commission, the celebration recognised not only Jha’s endurance and passion but also the broader message
of ecological responsibility. His journey served as a reminder that individual action can spark collective change—one kilometre, one cause at a time.
India’s Consul General visits NSW cotton belt to boost agricultural ties
Sydney, May 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a significant move to enhance Australia–India cooperation in agriculture and textiles, the Consul General of India in Sydney, Dr. S. Janakiraman, recently visited Narrabri and Gunnedah — key cottonproducing regions in New South Wales.
During his visit, Dr. Janakiraman toured the AFF cotton farms and ginning units in Narrabri, gaining firsthand insight into Australia’s cotton industry. The Consul General was accompanied by Member of Parliament Warren Kirby and Irfan Malik, president of the NSW chapter of the Australia India Business Council.
A key highlight of the visit was
a meeting with MP Roy Butler, who expressed strong interest in expanding bilateral trade and investment opportunities with India, particularly in cotton and related sectors. The discussions focused on strengthening trade ties, promoting innovation in textiles, and exploring collaborative opportunities in agricultural technologies.
The delegation also engaged with leading business figures from the agriculture, food, logistics, and warehousing sectors in both Narrabri and Gunnedah. The visit underscores the growing momentum in India–Australia economic engagement, especially in regional and rural trade development.
Dr. Janakiraman emphasized
the importance of building sustainable partnerships that benefit both nations, with a focus on knowledge sharing and market access in high-quality agricultural produce.
This visit marks a step forward in India’s efforts to deepen cooperation with regional Australia in key sectors of mutual interest.
Sydney community joins prayer meeting to condole victims of Pahalgam terror attack
Sydney, May 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Friends and well-wishers of India gathered at the Consulate General of India in Sydney on May 2, 2025, to take part in a solemn prayer meeting held in memory of the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and
Kashmir.
Organised by the Consulate, the event drew members of the Indian diaspora, local community leaders, and supporters of peace who came together to express their solidarity with the victims and their families. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of
the need for unity in the face of violence and extremism.
Consul General Dr. S. Janakiraman led the prayer ceremony and condemned the heinous act, reaffirming India’s commitment to peace and resilience.
Silent prayers were offered for the
departed souls and those injured in the attack. Messages of support and condolence poured in from members of various communities, underscoring the strong ties between India and its global friends.
The Consulate expressed gratitude to all those who
attended the meeting and reiterated that India’s spirit of unity and peace would continue to stand strong in the face of adversity. As many as 26 people were killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam district on April 22, 2025.
FINACT Canberra holds candlelight vigil for Pahalgam attack victims
Canberra, May 2 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a moving tribute to the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Federation of Indian Associations of ACT Inc (FINACT), Canberra, recently organised a candlelight vigil to express
solidarity and remembrance.
Held with dignity and reverence, the vigil brought together members of the Indian community and supporters from across Canberra. Participants lit candles and observed a moment of silence to honour the 26 innocent lives lost in the April 22 attack.
The High Commission of India in Canberra commended FINACT for organising the event and for uniting the community in a powerful expression of grief, resilience, and collective condemnation of terrorism.
Assamese community celebrates Rongali Bihu
Melbourne, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Assamese community in Melbourne recently came together with colour, music, and tradition to celebrate Rongali Bihu—the Assamese New Year—at
a festive gathering organised by the Assam Association of Melbourne.
The event, graced by the presence of the Consul General of India, Melbourne Dr Sushil Kumar highlighted the richness
of Assamese culture through traditional dances, songs, and culinary delights. Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, marks a time of renewal, harvest, and cultural pride.
In his address, the Consul
General praised the community’s efforts in preserving and sharing their heritage, noting that such celebrations play a vital role in strengthening the cultural bridge between India and Australia. The joyous occasion brought together people from diverse backgrounds, underlining the unifying spirit of Bihu and its growing presence in Australia's multicultural tapestry.
UN Vesak Day celebrated with message of peace and unity
Melbourne, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr Sushil Kumar, recently participated in the Victorian United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations held at Melbourne Town Hall. The event marked the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha, highlighting his enduring teachings of peace, compassion, and universal harmony.
today’s world, emphasising the importance of spiritual unity and interfaith dialogue.
In his address, Dr Kumar reflected on the timeless relevance of Buddha’s message in
The gathering brought together Buddhist leaders, diplomats, and members of diverse communities, reinforcing Vesak Day’s spirit of global peace and multicultural harmony.
Ballarat Malayalee Association unites communities with Easter, Vishu and Eid celebration
Melbourne, May 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a heartfelt display of unity in diversity, the Ballarat Malayalee Association Inc recently brought together communities to
celebrate Easter, Vishu (Malayalee New Year), and Eid in a single vibrant event.
The celebration was attended by Juliana Addison MP, Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, local
councillors, and members of various multicultural communities, reflecting the spirit of harmony and togetherness that defines India’s cultural heritage. In addition to cultural
performances and festive cheer, the gathering observed a solemn tribute to the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, standing in solidarity with the families affected.
The event served as a reminder of how diverse traditions can unite people in celebration and compassion, both in joy and remembrance.
Australia-India energy ties strengthened at AIETAM 2025 in Melbourne
Melbourne, April 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia-India Energy Transition and Advanced Manufacturing Conference (AIETAM) 2025 was recently held at the Crown, Melbourne, jointly organised by the Centre for Australia-India Relations, RMIT, and Murdoch University.
Supported by DFAT’s Maitri
Grant, the event spotlighted strategic collaboration in advanced manufacturing and energy transition.
Industry leaders, research firms, and Australia India Business Council representatives, including Victoria President Radhika Kanhai and National Chair Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM, outlined bilateral initiatives.
Molina Asthana highlighted AIBC's cross-sectoral collaboration potential, while Joe Williams linked energy innovation to defence strategy. Narasimhan Viswanathan emphasized Australia-India synergies in sectors like smart energy, space, and pharmaceuticals under the “Make with India” vision.
Melbourne, May 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General (CG) Dr. Sushil Kumar recently joined the Vaisakhi celebration hosted by
OESS Incorporated (Organisation to Encourage People and Step Towards Success), highlighting the essence of Punjabi culture and the spirit of Indian
In a strategic effort to deepen Australia-India trade ties, the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) recently facilitated a business delegation visit to the cotton farming and processing hubs of Narrabri and Gunnedah in regional New South Wales.
Led by Irfan Malik (MAICD), AIBC National Associate Chair and
multiculturalism.
The event featured dynamic Bhangra and Gidha performances, soulful Gurbani renditions, and traditional Punjabi fashion shows,
offering a colourful and heartfelt tribute to the harvest festival.
The celebration served not only as a cultural showcase but also as a reflection of community unity
president of NSW, the delegation explored new opportunities in the cotton and textile industry. The group was warmly hosted by Roy Butler MP, Member for Barwon, and supported by Dr. Sarvesan Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, alongside NSW Parliamentary Friends of India Co-Chair Warren Kirby MP.
The delegation included prominent business figures
from agri, food, logistics, and warehousing sectors, who engaged with local industry leaders to identify potential avenues for trade growth, investment, and job creation in regional NSW.
This visit builds on the momentum of AIBC’s recent mission to textile clusters in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which sparked significant interest
and a step towards strengthening cultural bonds in Australia's diverse social fabric.
among Indian manufacturers.
The goal: increase access to premium Australian cotton and foster collaboration on yarn manufacturing and spinning mills in Australia.
The initiative promises to extend the Australia-India cotton value chain and strengthen both countries’ positions in global textile markets.
Consulate hosts Yoga Day prelude event in Brisbane with DJJS
Brisbane, May 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In the lead-up to International
Day of Yoga 2025, the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, in collaboration with Divya Jyoti
Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), organized a special prelude event on May 3. The gathering aimed to promote
awareness about the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga, fostering community
engagement ahead of the global celebration on June 21.
AIBC WA hosts business event to boost Australia-India trade ties
Perth, May 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council’s Western Australia chapter (AIBC WA) recently hosted a dynamic and highimpact business networking event, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and community members to further strengthen bilateral ties between
Australia and India.
AIBC WA President Paritosh (Pari) Misra opened the event by underlining AIBC’s pivotal role in promoting Australia–India economic relations, with a renewed focus on leveraging opportunities under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) in 2025-26.
Management Committee Member Siva Murugappa shared AIBC WA’s upcoming initiatives, while AIBC WA Treasurer Richard Baddeley, Principal at Wrays, spotlighted Wrays’ legal and intellectual property expertise. Wrays also sponsored and meticulously managed the evening.
Vice President Yaso Ponnuthurai closed the event with a warm vote
of thanks, celebrating member contributions and collaborative efforts.
Attendees included Cr Bruce Reynolds (Deputy Lord Mayor, City of Perth), Ian Martinus (WA Trade Commissioner to India), Graham Reid (CEO Hockey WA and former Indian team coach), Rosie Staude (Deputy Director,
and Cultural
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DFAT), Michael Carter (CCIWA), Naresh Kumar (Acting Consul General of India), and former cricketer Brad Hogg.
The evening underscored AIBC WA’s commitment to creating impactful connections and fostering business growth between Australia and India.
Sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, the
group is in Australia to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange through art. The Consulate extended its warm wishes to
the artists, applauding their dedication and wishing them great success at the Brisbane event.
Brisbane, May 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
group of talented artists from the All-India Deaf Arts
Society (AIDACS) recently visited the Indian Consulate in Brisbane ahead of their upcoming performance at a
event hosted by Kannada Sangha Queensland.
CricKingdom expands in Australia with new Brisbane academy launch
Brisbane, May 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia recently inaugurated the Brisbane
chapter of CricKingdom, an internationally acclaimed cricket academy focused on nurturing young talent aged 5 to 12.
CricKingdom, which already operates across countries including India, Singapore, the USA, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, marked its second
Australian launch following the establishment of its first centre in Huntingdale, WA.
The Consul General extended
her best wishes to the organisers, coaches, and budding cricketers, applauding the initiative for strengthening grassroots cricket and fostering future talent.
FICQ to host domestic violence awareness workshop on May 25
Brisbane, May 13 (Australia India
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), in collaboration with the Hind Society of Queensland Inc, is set to host a workshop on domestic violence on May 25, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
The initiative aims to foster community dialogue, raise
awareness, and promote understanding of domestic violence, which remains a critical concern across all communities. Organisers are calling on members of the community to attend and be part of the conversation. Registrations can be made via this link.
News Newsdesk)
FICQ president joins Samskruthi’s Vibrant Vishu celebration in Queensland
Brisbane, May 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Dr. Preethi Suraj, president of the Federation of Indian
Communities of Queensland (FICQ), took part in Samskruthi’s grand Vishu celebration on April 26, 2025, honouring Kerala’s cherished New Year traditions.
The event brought together the community with the auspicious Vishu Kani, lively cultural performances, and a traditional Vishu Sadya feast, reflecting the
vibrancy of Malayalam heritage.
Dr. Suraj lauded Samskruthi’s efforts in promoting Kerala’s cultural richness and expressed FICQ’s continued support
for such celebrations that nurture unity in Queensland’s multicultural society.
Melbourne hosts first curtain raiser for International Day of Yoga 2025
Melbourne, May 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The first curtain raiser event for the International Day of Yoga
(IDY) 2025 was recently held at the Consulate General of India in Melbourne, in collaboration with The Art of Living. The
event witnessed enthusiastic participation from yoga practitioners and community members, highlighting the
growing interest in yoga as a path to wellness and inner peace.
Celebrated globally on June 21, the International Day of Yoga
promotes harmony of body, mind, and spirit, and the Melbourne curtain raiser set the tone for this year’s celebrations with a message of health and unity.
WA Trade Commissioner to India-Gulf meets Acting Consul General
Perth, May 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Dr Ian Martinus, Investment and Trade Commissioner for India-Gulf, and Vikram Walia, International Regional Hub Coordinator – India-Gulf, Invest and Trade Western Australia, recently called on the Acting
Consul General of India in Perth Naresh Kumar.
The meeting marked a courtesy call ahead of Dr Martinus’s upcoming assignment as Trade Commissioner for India-Gulf, based in Chennai. The Consulate extended best wishes to Dr Martinus for a successful tenure
and fruitful engagement in strengthening trade ties between Western Australia and the IndiaGulf region.
Brisbane remembers Indian indentured labourers at Girmit Diwas 2025
Brisbane, May 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Brisbane, in collaboration with GOPIO Queensland Inc., hosted Girmit Diwas 2025 at the Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre on May 14 to honour the memory
of the first Indians who arrived in the Fiji Islands as indentured labourers.
The solemn commemorative service paid tribute to the courage, endurance, and cultural legacy of the ‘Girmitiyas’—a term derived from the word “agreement” used to describe the indenture contracts under which Indian labourers were taken to work on sugarcane plantations in Fiji between 1879 and 1916.
The event featured keynote addresses from community leaders, dignitaries, and representatives of the Indian diaspora. A special wreath-laying ceremony was held in memory of those who endured the hardships of the indenture system. A powerful video presentation highlighted the historical context and emotional journey of the Girmit generation. The event brought together families, scholars, and youth, many of whom are descendants of the Girmitiyas, ensuring that the stories of resilience, sacrifice, and cultural survival are passed on to future generations.
Indian minister Pabitra Margherita engages with Indian diaspora during Melbourne visit
Melbourne, May 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, made a brief visit to Melbourne,recently, where he connected with the Indian diaspora at a reception hosted by Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar.
The gathering served as a platform for the Minister to
acknowledge the community’s growing role in deepening the bilateral ties between India and Australia. In his address, he appreciated the contributions of Indian-origin professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and cultural groups in shaping Victoria’s multicultural success story.
Minister Margherita also visited the Consulate General of India,
where he was briefed on the expanding scope of IndiaVictoria relations, including trade, education, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.
The visit underscored the government’s continued commitment to strengthening engagement with overseas Indian communities and enhancing India’s strategic partnership with Australia.
Maharashtra Mandal Perth showcases state’s rich heritage at cultural fair
Day with a vibrant cultural fair that brought together the essence of the state’s diverse districts. The event featured an immersive showcase of Maharashtra’s rich
art, culture, cuisine, tourism, and business opportunities — all under one roof. From traditional performances
and local delicacies to interactive exhibits and cultural displays, the fair offered a glimpse into the heart of Maharashtra. The celebration not only united the
local Marathi community but also introduced the wider Perth audience to the state’s heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
Indian diaspora condemns Pahalgam terror Attack at WA parliament gathering
Perth, May 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Members of the Indian diaspora recently gathered at the Western
Australia (WA) parliament to express solidarity with the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The peaceful gathering served as a moment of unity and mourning, as the community condemned the brutal attack that claimed 26 lives on April 22. Participants lit candles and observed a moment of silence in honour of the victims, while
community leaders called for global action against terrorism and expressed support for peace and justice in the region.
Perth’s Indian community unites in mourning victims of Pahalgam terror attack
Perth, May 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian community in Western Australia came together in multiple solemn gatherings to honour the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA), along with its member associations, organised
a peace gathering in Perth CBD to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the attack. A twominute silence was observed during the 2nd Asia Pacific Basava Convention in Perth as a mark of respect.
Similarly, participants at the 8th Australian National Hindu Conference, held on May 3 and organised by Vishva Hindu Parishad Australia, also paused
to observe a moment of silence. Meanwhile, around 70 members of the HSS Seniors Perth Chapter gathered at the Indian Community Centre to express solidarity and offer prayers for the victims.
These coordinated tributes across the city reflected a deep sense of unity, grief, and resilience within the Indian diaspora in Western Australia.
Brisbane’s iconic story bridge set for major restoration by 2040
Brisbane, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A comprehensive roadmap to restore Brisbane’s beloved Story Bridge by its centenary in 2040 has been unveiled, with a panel of national infrastructure experts calling for urgent, sustained investment to extend the bridge’s life for another 100 years.
The Story Bridge Restoration Committee, chaired by renowned Queenslander Nigel Chamier AM, released its findings today, warning that the 85-year-old structure is nearing the end of its design life and will be unable to carry traffic within two decades without a full restoration.
“Despite regular maintenance and renewal work by Council, significant investment is needed to restore this iconic structure
to ensure it remains safe and operational for another century,” said Chamier. “Restoring the Story Bridge will be challenging, particularly when it comes to securing funding and the necessary resources to ensure critical restoration works can be delivered in the coming years.”
The Committee, which included experts in heritage infrastructure, asset management and finance, commended Brisbane City Council’s long-standing care of the bridge. Over the past 20 years, the Council has invested more than $120 million, including $80 million since 2019 on steel coatings, paint removal and major concrete and steel repairs. However, the report makes it clear that a full restoration— estimated to span 15 years—will
require contributions far beyond Council’s financial capacity. To fund the ambitious works, the Committee proposed several funding models, such as joint annual contributions from all three levels of government, reintroduction of a toll, similar to the one on Sydney Harbour Bridge, or an annual rates levy or corporate sponsorship.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised that a toll or levy would only be considered as a last resort. “A levy on our residents is unacceptable given almost half the traffic that uses the Story Bridge each day comes from outside of Brisbane,” he said. “The bridge was originally built by the State Government in the 1940s and clearly the full restoration project will be beyond the means of our Council.”
“I’m confident the other levels of government will partner with us to restore the bridge and the footpaths,” the Lord Mayor added. “Just like State and National governments have invested in restoring other historic bridges across the world, it’s going to take a team effort from all levels of government to restore the Story
Bridge.”
A detailed business case, co-funded with the Federal Government, is already underway to determine exact restoration costs. In the meantime, the Committee has also called for immediate work on the bridge’s deteriorating footpaths, after a post-cyclone structural assessment found more serious damage than previously thought— including water leakage and spalling concrete.
Protective netting will now be installed under the footpaths, and Council will explore deploying temporary structures to ensure pedestrian access. Major events on the footpaths have already been banned since January 2025 due to safety concerns. Plans to close a traffic lane for cyclists and pedestrians have been rejected, as Council experts warned it would cause significant congestion on key arterial roads, including the Riverside Expressway, Inner City Bypass, Wynnum Road, Gympie Road, and others.
Cr Schrinner added, “City Hall is a decade older than Story Bridge and underwent a major
restoration about a decade ago, so the time is right to do the same for Story Bridge. Our Council has a strong track record of delivering complicated game-changing transport projects like the Clem7 tunnel, Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane Metro and Kingsford Smith Drive, and I’m confident we can now do the same with Story Bridge.”
Chamier concluded that the Restoration Committee will continue to work alongside Council and funding partners to ensure the bridge’s safety and enduring legacy. “As the Chair of the Committee, I’ve had the benefit of drawing upon the knowledge and vast experiences of infrastructure experts… to oversee this critical project.”
Story Bridge Fast Facts
• Constructed between 1935 and 1940 by the State Government.
• Operated as a toll road until 1947, before Brisbane City Council took ownership.
• Used by more than 100,000 vehicles daily, including public transport and freight.
• 42.5% of bridge users come from outside Brisbane.
New neighbourhood plan set to transform Nathan, Salisbury and Moorooka
Brisbane, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A major step forward in shaping the future of Brisbane’s southside has been taken with the adoption of the Nathan, Salisbury and Moorooka Neighbourhood Plan, set to deliver thousands of new homes and jobs while revitalising key urban areas.
Endorsed by Brisbane City Council following significant community consultation and approval from the Queensland Government, the plan outlines a bold vision for the area’s development. It aims to create approximately 2,500 new homes and up to 12,500 additional jobs, while improving streetscapes, business precincts and transport infrastructure.
“Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest growing capital cities and we’re doing what we can
to deliver new homes while protecting our incredible lifestyle,” said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
The plan, which will come into effect on 27 June 2025, highlights improvements in walkability, connectivity and liveability, with an emphasis on making it easier for residents to commute between homes and major employment hubs. The Moorooka Magic Mile has been identified as a key area for revitalisation, set to become a vibrant employment and lifestyle precinct.
“A key part of this plan is to unlock more housing within walking distance to key infrastructure, such as transport, shops and businesses to ensure our suburbs remain the best place to live, work and relax,” added Schrinner.
Other major infrastructure upgrades include a future expansion of Ipswich Road from four to six lanes to ease traffic flow, and a new bikeway along the western side of Ipswich Road to encourage active transport. The plan also balances development with conservation. Areas such as Toohey Forest Park, Rocky Water Holes Creek, and Moolabin Creek will receive protection under the plan to preserve Brisbane’s natural environment.
“This new neighbourhood plan will ensure our suburbs can continue to cater for our growing population, while delivering better amenities and more to see and do,” said the Lord Mayor. “We’re excited to see this neighbourhood plan come to
life and deliver one of the most significant improvements to these suburbs in years, transforming them into vibrant lifestyle precincts.”
The plan was shaped with input from 174 residents who made submissions during consultation, reflecting a collaborative effort spanning several years. It was first announced in 2019, followed by multiple rounds of community engagement and revisions through 2024, culminating in its final adoption in May 2025.
End of an era: Virat Kohli announces retirement from Test cricket
New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Indian cricket stalwart and former captain Virat Kohli on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket.
The decision came after it was reported that Kohli had communicated his decision to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of next month's five-match Test series against England.
"It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test
cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life," Kohli wrote in his Instagram post.
"There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites.
The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever. As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.
"I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off," he added. In less
than a week, both Kohli and Rohit Sharma have retired from the longest format of the game which will leave the Indian team without much experience in the batting department.
Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, has been a cornerstone of India's red-ball resurgence over the past decade. His aggressive captaincy, prolific batting and unmatched intensity have helped transform India into a formidable Test side both at home and abroad. Kohli will bid adieu to his Test career with 9230 runs in 123 matches at an impressive average of 46.85 with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. He hangs up his spikes as the fourth-most successful Test captain overall, behind Graeme Smith (53 wins), Ricky Ponting (48 wins), and Steve Waugh (41 wins).
Drone attack forces PSL match cancellation in Rawalpindi; League may shift out of Pak
New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) The Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings, scheduled for Thursday evening at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, has been cancelled after Indian Armed Forces targeted the Air Defence Radars and systems at a number of locations in Pakistan, including Rawalpindi. PCB officials have suggested shifting all the remaining matches of PSL to
abroad -- Doha or Dubai.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stated on Wednesday that PSL would proceed as planned despite India’s attack and rising tensions between the two nations. However, the situation has swiftly evolved following renewed Indian assaults.
"A PSL match in Rawalpindi was cancelled following a drone attack, leaving foreign players in deep shock. The match was tonight. Many are now seeking to leave the country as soon as possible. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will decide after consulting with the government," a former Pakistan cricketer told IANS.
In the early hours of May 7, India launched precision strikes targeting nine high-value terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (Pok), in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives—25 Indians and one Nepali national.
On the night of May 7-8, Pakistan attempted to engage a number of military targets in Northern and Western India, including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj, using drones and missiles.
Baulkline 4.0 snooker: Ishpreet Singh Chadha makes a maximum break of 147 again
Mumbai, May 8 (IANS) It appears the country's top cueist Ishpreet Singh Chadha has got the knack of manipulating his cue in a wonderful way to achieve snooker sport's ultimate break of 147. He did that for the second time in recent weeks in a tournament in Mumbai.
On Thursday, he carved a 147 in the fifth frame to subdue Pushpender Singh in a prequarterfinal match of the NSCI Rs.32 lakh prize money Baulkline 4.0 All India snooker tournament at the NSCI Dome here. Chadha
won the match 118 (105)-1, 74-25, 88(65)-9, 82 (82)-20, 147(147), 44-78, 91-27. But what was more talked about was his perfect score of 147.
Recently, Chadha had cracked a 147 against Dilip Kumar in the CCI Snooker Classic.
A maximum break (also known as a maximum, a 147, or orally, a one-four-seven) is the highest possible break in snooker in normal circumstances and is a special type of total clearance. It is considered a big achievement in snooker as a player compiles a maximum break by potting all 15 reds with 15 blacks for 120 points, followed by all six colours for a further 27 points.
Aditya Mehta is the only Indian to achieve this feat in professional snooker.
In an action-packed match, Digvijay Kadian outwitted S. Shrikrishna 6-3. Kadian, 22, is one of the brightest talents in India. After nudging out Kreish Gurbaxani in a round of 32
India captain Rohit Sharma announces retirement from Test cricket, to continue playing ODIs
New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) India captain Rohit Sharma has announced an abrupt retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect, adding that he will continue to play in ODIs. Rohit’s decision means that a new skipper will be in place for the Indian team when they tour England for a five-match Test series starting on June 20. Placing his Test cap number 280 in an Instagram story posted on Wednesday evening, Rohit wrote, “Hello everyone I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. Its been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”
Rohit had struggled in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, which India lost 3-1. He averaged just 6.20 in five innings and also dropped himself for the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Before that, Rohit had a forgettable time in India’s 3-0 home series defeat to New Zealand, averaging just 15.16.
IANS understands that with an eye to create a Test team for the future, especially with the Test tour of England marking the start of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Rohit announced his retirement from the format.
“This was a development which had been in the making for a long time, despite him claiming during the TV interview in Sydney Test that he won’t be going away anytime soon. So, one can say that the writing was on the wall. Subsequently, the selection of Test team for the upcoming England tour has been deferred by two weeks,” said a source aware of the development to IANS.
Rohit ends his Test career which began with a century on debut against the West Indies in Kolkata in 2013 with 4,301 runs coming from 67 Tests at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties. Rohit led India in 24 Tests, winning 12 and losing nine games.
In June 2024, Rohit had announced his retirement from T20Is after India beat South Africa by seven runs to win the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup. With Rohit announcing retirement from Tests, Shubman Gill is the front-runner to be the next Test captain, as the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee aims to infuse some new blood into the side.
IPL 2025 suspended indefinitely, BCCI cites national interest: Sources
match, he went on to show his wherewithal to beat Shrikrishna.
In another pre-quarter-final match, Sourav Kothari breezed past Dhvaj Haria 6-1.
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) Amid the escalating military conflict between India and Pakistan, the BCCI has decided to suspend the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season indefinitely in an emergency meeting on Friday, sources told IANS.
After Thursday’s IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was called off after 10.1 overs of play at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala following the air and drone strikes from Pakistan which resulted in blackouts in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, all of which are in close proximity to Dharamshala, the future of the tournament looked uncertain and BCCI convened emergency meeting to decide the way forward. "IPL to be suspended, BCCI will issue detailed information
anytime soon, the BCCI sources told IANS on Friday. "Yes, the meeting just got over. After discussing with all the concerned authorities, this decision was made. Further details will be shared by the BCCI, " it added. "BCCI wants to stand with the nation at this time and thus suspends IPL 2025 with immediate effect. It’s indefinite at the moment (on a window to resume IPL 2025 in future). It will only happen if there will be time later in the year. But for now nothing," said IPL sources to IANS.
Following the abandonment of the Dharamshala match, several Australian players involved in the league reportedly expressed anxiety over their safety.
A special train has been arranged to evacuate both Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals players and support staff members, match officials, commentators, broadcast crew members and other key personnel associated with IPL 2025 to get them to a safe place.
Author Ved Prakash Sharma’s most celebrated novels set for a cinematic revival
Mumbai, May 9 (IANS) India’s most iconic pulp fiction writer, Ved Prakash Sharma, is all set to captivate a new generation of audiences—this time on the big screen.
In a landmark move, production house Almighty Motion Picture has secured the audio-visual rights to eight bestselling novels by Ved Prakash Sharma, widely regarded as the pioneer of
Indian pulp fiction. Known for his gripping storytelling and massive popularity, Sharma’s novels have sold in crores and mesmerized readers across generations with their potent mix of suspense, emotion, and massmarket charm. The titles acquired include Superstar, Paintra, Dahej Mai Revolver, Jadu Bhara Jaal, and the cult trilogy— Qatil Ho To Aisa, Shakahari Khanjar, and Madari—along with Naseeb Mera Dushman. These books, revered for their gripping plots and unforgettable characters, are now set to find new life on screen through high-octane cinematic adaptations.
Speaking about the same, Prabhleen Sandhu, founder of Almighty Motion Picture, shared, “This is not just an acquisition— it’s a tribute. Ved Prakash Sharma ji is one of the most iconic storytellers India has ever seen. His stories have shaped popular literature in our country. To
bring them to the screen is both a dream and a deep responsibility. We are grateful to Shagun Sharma and Madhu Sharma ji for trusting us with this legacy.”
Shagun Sharma, co-founder of Tulsi Paper Books, added, “It’s an emotional moment for our family and for fans of my father’s work. Watching his stories find new form through cinema is a celebration of his legacy. Teaming up with Almighty Motion Picture ensures these adaptations will be handled with creativity and care.”
With this bold lineup, Almighty Motion Picture is set to bring Ved Prakash Sharma’s classic tales to a contemporary audience— blending the nostalgic essence of India’s pulp fiction legacy with the flair of modern cinematic storytelling. Audiences can now look forward to gripping action, rich drama, and unforgettable characters drawn from the golden era of popular Indian literature.
Tamil Virtual Academy to launch website listing Tamil names for newborns
Chennai, May 1 (IANS) The Tamil Virtual Academy is set to launch a dedicated website featuring a comprehensive list of Tamil names for newborns, along with their meanings.
The initiative aims to assist parents in selecting meaningful Tamil names while promoting the preservation and pride of Tamil language and culture.
The announcement comes in the wake of a growing call from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for families to embrace Tamil identity.
Speaking at a public event in Nagapattinam recently, Stalin encouraged newlyweds to have children and name them in Tamil.
He expressed concern that Tamil Nadu’s representation in Parliament could be affected by future delimitation exercises based on population.
“Earlier, I used to advise newlyweds to take their time and plan their families,” Stalin said.
“But now I am urging them to have children immediately -- and name them in Tamil.”
Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin also shared the same
sentiment, urging couples to choose Tamil names for their children. He linked the appeal to broader efforts to protect the Tamil language from perceived impositions, particularly through the National Education Policy and other central initiatives.
“I request all newlyweds to give their children beautiful Tamil names,” he said. “Attempts are being made to indirectly impose Hindi -- by altering words in the Tamil Thaai Vaazthu (state song) and promoting Hindi through the education policy. But these efforts are failing.”
The Tamil Virtual Academy’s move to create the new naming website was prompted by a suggestion on the social media platform ‘X’ by Nithan Chitrarasu, a DMK supporter.
Miss World contestants mesmerised by iconic Charminar
Hyderabad, May 13 (IANS) Miss World contestants from 109 countries were mesmerised by Hyderabad’s iconic monument, Charminar, as they participated in a Heritage Walk and went shopping for bangles and other ornaments in the famous Laad Bazaar.
The participants in the ongoing 72nd Miss World pageant were welcomed with traditional Marfa music. Some contestants danced to the rhythm of Arabic Marfa instruments.
All the contestants took part in a special photo shoot at the Charminar. The beauty queens greeted the public with warm gestures. They captured the splendour of Charminar on their mobile phones while participating in the grand Heritage Walk.
The glamorous women went shopping for bangles, pearl necklaces, and other ornaments in the famous Laad Bazaar near Charminar. Some contestants personally observed the bangle-
Bihar artist’s unique tribute to ‘Operation Sindoor’
Patna, May 9 (IANS)
Madhurendra, a known artist in Bihar has paid unique tribute to the Indian Army’s 'Operation Sindoor' by sketching its painting on 'Peepal' leaf.
While the whole country celebrates the success of Operation Sindoor and salutes the armed forces for responding to Pakistan's cowardly actions, the artist took to his craft and illustrated a one-of-its kind painting on leaf.
Madhurendra poured his heart out on peepal leaves, while copiously praising the Armed Forces and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for teaching Pakistan a lesson.
He has beautifully created graffiti of the soldiers as well as PM Modi.
“Thank you Modi ji for Operation Sindoor,” he wrote while expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister.
Madhurendra carved the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India’s bravehearts on green peepal leaves through his unique art.
The image carved on the leaf is about three centimeters long and salutes the courage of Indian soldiers.
Sharing his experience, he said that the entire country is in high spirits after Operation Sindoor.
“Every Indian is immersed in celebration. The valour of the army and government’s resolve against terror is beyond praise. I express my deep gratitude to my government and the army,” he said.
“I have expressed my gratitude through my artwork, by making a picture of the Prime Minister on a peepal leaf. The armed forces under the leadership of PM Modi have given a strong reply to terrorists and took revenge for the Pahalgam massacre,” he said.
“We are grateful to the Prime Minister for this,” he added.
In another such instance, Odisha’s renowned sculptor Sudarsan Pattnaik created a sand sculpture of ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ with the message - “Jai Hind, Salute to Indian Armed forces ", at Puri beach in Odisha, to salute the forces.
Lakshmi Manchu: For me, saree is the most feminine garment
making process and appreciated the craftsmanship of the artisans. Traders in Laad Bazaar refused to take money from contestants for items purchased by them. Playing good hosts, the traders welcomed the guests with rose flowers and declined to accept payment for their shopping. The traders urged Miss World contestants to showcase the uniqueness of Hyderabad and the specialities of Charminar and Laad Bazaar in their respective countries.
The contestants arrived at Charminar in special tourist buses and were given a redcarpet welcome by officials. A few contestants joined in the rhythmic beats with graceful dance moves, showcasing their appreciation for the local culture.
Mumbai, May 5 (IANS) Actress Lakshmi Manchu has professed her love for sarees, saying that, for her, it is the most beautiful and feminine garment.
Lakshmi hosted a special event celebrating the timeless beauty of Kanchipuram and Kota sarees, paying tribute to India’s rich textile heritage. The handwoven masterpieces showcased the intricate craftsmanship of local weavers.
As a passionate advocate for the "Make in India" initiative, Lakshmi said: "In Mumbai, even the socalled real zari isn’t real. I spent time sourcing authentic zari from master artisans, curating sarees that tell real stories. I even hand
drew Kalamkari designs that the weavers themselves said they’d never seen before."
Lakshmi emphasized that these sarees are among the most beautiful and feminine pieces and talked about the importance of embracing Indian traditions and culture through textiles.
"I’m the kind of person who walks into coffee shops in Mumbai draped in a saree, because, to me, it’s the most beautiful, the most feminine garment. I believe it’s time we truly embrace our traditions and culture, especially through a fabric the world already looks up to," she added.
Lakshmi is the daughter of senior actor Mohan Babu. She made her acting debut with the American television series Las Vegas, where she played the love interest of James Lesure.
She then appeared in one episode of each of the following series: Desperate Housewives, Late Nights with my Lover, and Mystery ER.
In 2006, she directed, produced, and acted in Perfect Lives, a short film that was showcased at the Wilshire Fine Arts Theater as part of the La Femme Film Festival in Los Angeles.
She made her theatre debut as Miss Trunchbull in the adaptation of Roald Dahl's Matilda, directed by Taher Ali Baig, in 2016.
Karnataka’s ‘daughter-in-law’ Colonel Sofiya Qureshi hailed for ‘Operation Sindoor’ address
Bengaluru, May 8 (IANS) Colonel Sofiya Qureshi's in-laws in Karnataka are gleeful as people congratulated them after she became a national celebrity by addressing the media on 'Operation Sindoor'.
Qureshi is married to Colonel Tajuddin Bagewadi, a native of Konnur village near Gokak in Belagavi district, Karnataka. Villagers and people from the surrounding areas have been visiting Qureshi's in-laws' residence to congratulate them.
Her in-laws proudly said that whenever Sofiya visits the village, she becomes one among them, living like any other modest, traditional Muslim woman.
Her father-in-law, Ghouse Saab Babu Saab Bagewadi, expressed his immense pride and joy, saying, "I am overjoyed that both my daughter-in-law and my son are serving the country. Both
are colonels, and our family is proud. Since Sofiya appeared on television, my family hasn't let me sleep. They kept calling me all night to offer congratulations."
"We didn't get much formal education," he added, "but seeing my daughter-in-law receive such appreciation fills me with happiness".
"I was overwhelmed watching Sofiya Qureshi deliver updates on Operation Sindoor. My son visits home once every six months, and Sofiya comes once a year. Despite her position, she is humble and becomes one of us when she visits," Ghouse said.
"Even though there is the possibility of war, I'm not worried about their safety. They are serving the nation. I have another son who works with the Fire and Emergency Services. I've already told him that if war breaks out, he should be the first to volunteer. I had children nine years after marriage, and I am proud of Sofiya Qureshi," he stated.
"They had an arranged marriage in 2015, which was held in Vadodara, Gujarat. Both of them have achieved great heights in their careers," he added.
"Sofiya Qureshi has brought immense respect to our family. Both my son and daughter-in-law have told us they will come home together for Bakrid. Villagers are showing us great respect - they've brought flowers and extended wishes. I was unaware of her media briefing on Wednesday as I was out. After returning home, I learned about it, and my happiness knew no bounds," Ghouse shared.
"I haven't been able to speak with Sofiya yet. My son informed me that she is in Delhi attending meetings," he said. Speaking on Pakistan's attempts to incite religious divisions, Ghouse said, "There are no differences among us. Whatever Pakistan does will only lead to a tragic end for them. Unko Allah ki maut nahin aati (They won't have a dignified death). They are not honest. They attack from behind. But we Indian Muslims face our enemies head-on - that's why we earn respect. If our women are this strong, imagine how strong our men are. We believe in unity. For us, there is only one identity: Hindustani. Those who promote caste divisions will be left with nowhere to go."
Jobless during pandemic, Bihar youth who went ‘vocal for local’ now runs bag factory
Patna, May 8 (IANS) A youth from Bihar’s Motihari district has become a shining example of ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help people explore their latent potential and also the strength of their indigenous resources.
The pandemic that broke out in 2020-21 destroyed many businesses and rendered many jobless, however, there were
some who found an opportunity in crisis, a mantra given by PM Modi, and started their own ventures and enterprises.
Many people returned to their hometowns and started businesses of their own.
A Motihari youth named Mohammed Nurez has set an example of how one’s own enterprise could change destiny.
The young man from Motihari used to run his own bag factory in Maharashtra before Covid-19 struck, wreaking havoc across the country not just in tangible terms but also ruining scores of businesses. His factory was shut down due to shortage of demand, and he was forced to pack his bags and return to his village.
It was around the same time that Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the slogan of 'Vocal for Local', enthusing the countrymen to explore the start-up ideas to chase their dreams and also succeed in achieving it.
Inspired by the campaign, Mohammad Nurez set up a factory in his village Lakhaura and today, he is a known businessman of his area. He not only runs a factory but also provided employment to more than a hundred people. Among those employed are from his village. Much like him, these people used to work outside Bihar before the Covid outbreak but returned home during the lockdown as they became unemployed.
what true commitment to the nation looks like. Shakeel had in fact returned to Kannauj to seek medical care for his ailing child. But he received sudden orders for redeployment amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
The escalation followed Operation Sindoor, during which India successfully targeted and destroyed nine terror infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Shakeel immediately set aside personal
Just married, now marching: Newlywed soldiers answer nation’s call
Washim/Rajgarh, May 9 (IANS)
In moments when personal joy and national duty clash, only a few rise to embody the spirit of true patriotism. Two such sons of India, Krishna Raju Ambhore from Washim, Maharashtra, and Mohit Rathore from Rajgarh, Madhya Pradesh, have shown the nation what unshakable dedication looks like -- leaving behind their newlywed wives to report for military duty.
Hailing from the small village of Jaulka in Washim, Krishna Raju Ambhore, just days into his married life, received a call from his unit in Uttarakhand. There was no hesitation. The moment duty called, Krishna packed his bags and prepared to leave. His bride’s eyes were full of tears, but Krishna’s heart was filled with resolve -- to serve and protect.
"I am posted in Uttarakhand. Our leaves have been cancelled. I received the call to report for duty yesterday. My wedding took place
just four days ago. I am going back to serve the nation," Krishna Raju Ambhore told IANS. It was around 2.30 p.m. on Friday when Krishna arrived at Washim railway station where the entire village had gathered to bid him farewell. The air was thick with emotion and patriotism. Children waved, elders blessed him, and chants of "Jai Hind" echoed through the platform. People wished him luck with one message in their hearts — "Go show Pakistan our strength." From young to old, every eye welled up with pride. Krishna's decision has not only honoured his family but inspired an entire district. “The nation comes first, everything else after.” This one line, etched into the hearts of his people, defines Krishna’s sacrifice.
Meanwhile, in Rajgarh district, Mohit Rathore, an airman stationed at Isapur Air Force Station near Delhi, had come home on a 15-day leave to get married.
However, following rising tensions between India and Pakistan as a result of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam and retaliatory Indian airstrikes — the situation escalated quickly. Drone and missile attacks from Pakistan followed, which were foiled by alert Indian forces. As a result, all leaves were cancelled. Mohit, too, received his call of duty. And he answered.
Tamil Nadu: 70-yr-old woman passes Class 12 exams, fulfilling lifelong dream
concerns and answered the nation’s call without a shred of hesitation, in what reaffirmed the spirit of duty that defines India's brave soldiers. He left his personal worries behind and prepared to rejoin his unit — this time, at a tense frontier in Kashmir. Shakeel belongs to Majh Purwa village in Gursahaiganj. It is a proud village that has long given sons to the Indian Army. Several residents of the village are in the army, as per the information.
Chennai, May 8 (IANS) In an inspiring story from Coimbatore, 70-year-old Raani has successfully cleared the Tamil Nadu Class 12 board examinations, proving that age is no barrier to learning or achieving.
Raani, who lives alone following the death of her husband, had always nurtured a desire to study further despite challenges thrown up by life.
This determination culminated on Thursday when she passed the Higher Secondary Examination (HSE) with a total score of 346 out of 600 marks.
Breaking down her marks, Raani scored 89 in Tamil, 52 in History, and 50 in English -- an
achievement that has drawn admiration from the community and beyond.
Her accomplishment at the age of 70 grabbed spotlight after the announcement of the results of the Class 12 board exams on Thursday.
Raani’s achievement stands as a testament to perseverance, inspiring many to pursue education at any age.
The state recorded an impressive overall pass percentage of 95.03 per cent, up 0.47 per cent from last year. Announcing the results, School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi said that out of the 7,92,494 students who appeared for the exams, 7,53,142 passed. Ariyalur district topped the state with a pass percentage of 98.82 per cent, followed closely by Erode at 97.98 per cent.
In government and governmentaided schools, Ariyalur maintained its top position. Subject-wise, Science stream students achieved a pass percentage of 96.90, while Commerce students recorded 92.68 per cent.
Kannauj, May 9 (IANS) In a powerful story of sacrifice, legacy, and patriotism, Havaldar Shakeel Ahmed of the Rajput Regiment has demonstrated
Top traders’ body urges Indians to boycott travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), the apex body representing traders across the country, on Wednesday called upon Indian traders and citizens to completely boycott travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan in response to their open support for Pakistan.
Turkey received around 62.2 million foreign tourists in 2024, with approximately 300,000 tourists arriving from India alone. This marked a 20.7 per cent increase in Indian tourists compared to 2023.
Turkey’s total tourism revenue stood at $61.1 billion last year, with each Indian tourist spending
an average of $972, amounting to a total estimated Indian expenditure of $291.6 million, according to data shared by CAIT.
The traders’ body said it has long been running a nationwide campaign to boycott Chinese products, which has had a considerable impact, and it now intends to extend this movement to Turkey and Azerbaijan.
The organisation will coordinate with travel and tour operators and other relevant stakeholders to intensify this campaign.
CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal emphasised a travel boycott by Indian citizens to Turkey and Azerbaijan, in protest
against their support for Pakistan, could significantly affect the economies of these countries, particularly their tourism sector.
He stated that if Indian tourists boycott Turkey, the country could suffer a direct loss of approximately $291.6 million.
In addition to this, the cancellation of Indian weddings, corporate events and other cultural programmes would cause even further indirect economic losses, Khandelwal added.
Azerbaijan received about 2.6 million foreign tourists in 2024, of which around 250,000 were Indians. The average spending by an Indian tourist was 2,170 Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), which is approximately $1,276, leading to a total Indian contribution of roughly $308.6 million.
A boycott by Indian tourists could, therefore, result in a direct loss of this magnitude.
As Indians mainly visit Azerbaijan for leisure, weddings, entertainment and adventure activities, a largescale decline could cause a noticeable economic slowdown in these sectors, said CAIT in its statement.
MP approves Pachmarhi land exclusion from sanctuary for tourism development
The state government has opened doors of development in the colonial town of Pachmarhi -- a hill station in Madhya Pradesh and a UNESCO site for rare plant species Biosphere Reserves. The cabinet of Dr Mohan Yadav has approved the exclusion of 395.95 hectares of land from its sanctuary designation, paving the way for urban expansion and economic activity.
In a landmark decision, “This vast expanse of land in Pachmarhi will now be reclassified under Nazul, allowing legal transactions related to its purchase, sale, and development,” announced Kailash Vijayvargiya, State Minister for Urban Development, on Tuesday. With this decision, the government is set to issue a revised notification regarding Pachmarhi Sanctuary.
“Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Madhya Pradesh government will initiate necessary legislative measures once the proposal formally secures cabinet
approval,” Vijayvargiya stated, adding, “The Court’s verdict is clear -- the earmarked land is no longer classified as forest territory. Now we have a sufficient area for development, mainly for the tourism industry.”
The origins of Pachmarhi Sanctuary trace back to June 1, 1977, when the Madhya Pradesh government officially declared it under Section 18(1) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. However, at the time, the sanctuary’s boundaries were never clearly demarcated, leading to a longstanding ambiguity that restricted governmental and commercial activities within its precincts.
With the recent Supreme Court ruling, 395.95 hectares of land will now be officially designated as Nazul land, clearing a path for administrative restructuring.
The Forest Department has already submitted a proposal to the cabinet seeking authorisation for this transition. Once denotified, the land will come
Here’s how Ayurveda tourism is redefining wellness travel
under the governance of the ‘Pachmarhi Land Special Area Development Authority,’ ensuring a more streamlined approach to development initiatives and real estate transactions. Until now, due to its sanctuary classification, economic ventures in the area were severely limited.
Despite these constraints, numerous hotels -- especially boutique establishments -- have proliferated across the town over the past two decades.
With its rare plant species in its hilly areas, the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is spread across nearly 5,000 square kilometres.
The origins of modern Panchmarhi can be traced back to 1857, when Captain James Forsyth of the British Army of Madras Infantry and Subhedar Major Nathoo Ramji Powar noticed the plateau while en route to Jhansi. Later, it was developed as a sanatorium for British troops in the Central province, and Powar was made Kotwal-in-charge of the armoury. Till the 90s, Pachmarhi also served as the summer capital for the Central province. Pachmarhi is a small community, and most of its land area is under the administration of the Pachmarhi Cantonment Board, which serves the Indian Army. The Indian Army Education Corps (AEC) area is located in the community.
From being merely an alternative remedy, Ayurveda is now offering transformative, personalised healing boosting tourism as well as redefining wellness travel.
Ayurveda, which is India’s 5,000-year-old system of healing rooted in ancient wisdom and sustainable living, is increasingly boosting tourism by offering an experience rich in healing, culture, sustainability, and selfdiscovery.
“This century, the world will witness the rise of Ayurveda not only as a system of healthcare but also as a system of prevention and wellness," Lakshman Shrivastava, Director, of Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital, was quoted as saying in a media report.
“Ayurveda was the only medical science to originally believe in prevention as well as cure."
Shrivastava indicated a rise in wellness travel that seeks “authentic, natural healing” which Ayurveda offers through wellbeing through diet, detoxification, meditation, and personalised therapies.
Unlike, the typical spa getaway Ayurveda tourism promises long-term transformation for conditions ranging from autoimmune diseases to anxiety, and digestive disorders.
“Ayurveda stands apart by nurturing long-term health across the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions," Shrivastava said.
Further, he said that modern Ayurvedic centers are adapting to the needs of both patients, offering treatment as well as enriching “the guest experience". The modern Ayurvedic are offering a softer, more accessible version of traditional Ayurvedic therapies, “tailored to suit the modern traveller."
Ayurveda tourism model not only preserves ecological balance but also protects India’s cultural heritage.
“Our Vedic lifestyle -- from food to daily routines -- is deeply influenced by Ayurveda. So when guests experience Ayurveda, they’re also experiencing India’s soul," Shrivastava said It also offers personalisation -- from a visit to an Ayurvedic doctor to a customised treatment, dietary plan, and daily routines. These are accompanied by workshops, yoga sessions, and guided meditations sessions “Ayurveda is deeply experiential," notes Shrivastava. “It’s a journey that changes how one lives, eats, breathes, and thinks."
X to block over 8,000 accounts in India after government order
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS)
Billionaire Elon Musk-led social media platform X on Thursday said the Indian government has asked it to block more than 8,000 accounts in the country for violating laws, and it will comply with the law of the land. While the platform did not specify names of the accounts, it includes "international news organisations and prominent X users", the media platform shared in a statement. The move comes amid the IndiaPakistan conflict, in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, which has seen an increase in misinformation.
"X has received executive orders from the Indian government requiring X to block over 8,000 accounts in India, subject to potential penalties including significant fines and imprisonment of the company’s local employees," the statement said.
The statement said that the government did not specify which posts have violated laws.
"For a significant number of accounts, we did not receive any evidence or justification to block the accounts," X said, noting that it will comply with the order and "withhold" the accounts only in India.
Calling the decision "not easy", X said it has initiated process and sent the affected users "notice of the actions".
It also expressed disagreement with the Indian government’s demands over blocking entire
accounts.
"It amounts to censorship of existing and future content and is contrary to the fundamental right of free speech," the statement said.
X said the platform is vital to Indians’ ability to access information.
"We believe that making these executive orders public is essential for transparency -lack of disclosure discourages accountability and can contribute to arbitrary decision making. However, due to legal restrictions, we are unable to publish the executive orders at this time," the statement said.
The Musk led company said it is exploring all possible legal avenues available to the company. It also encouraged the impacted users "to seek appropriate relief from the courts".
Indian researchers develop smart cage to smoothen cattle transport
Delhi, May 8
Researchers from the Guru Gobind Singh College of Engineering and Research Centre in Maharashtra’s Nashik have developed a modular, flexible cattle cage to facilitate smooth cattle transport across the country.
Traditionally, cattle are transported in open or ill-fitted goods carrier trucks with no proper loading mechanisms. This exposes them to high stress, injuries, and even fatal accidents. These outdated practices also create logistical headaches for farmers and transporters, all while violating basic animal
welfare norms.
“The cage can be adjusted to fit different vehicles, complete with a ramp that doubles as a door can help ease transport of cattle in villages, particularly take farm animals to the cattle market,”
according to Prof. Sandip S. Patil, from the varsity, who led the innovation.
Through a project funded by DST-SEED (Science for Equity, Empowerment, and Development), Patil’s team developed a cage that can make cattle transport safer, easier, and cheaper.
“This is not just a cage, but a science-driven mobility solution designed with telescopic mechanisms, foldable ramps, and reinforced metal frames, engineered to reduce injuries, lower stress, and dramatically improve loading and unloading for cattle,” the researchers said. It is also armed with telescopic
sliding, that can match the size of the vehicle, a roller-assisted movement that allows for easy cage adjustment, a foldable ramp cum door that provides a seamless way to load cattle and doubles up as a safety gate, a cross-link mesh design that adds durability while improving airflow.
The design was tested with field surveys, farmer feedback, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to ensure proper ventilation.
The cage can reduce animal injuries and stress during transit and has simplified handling, especially for small-scale farmers. It is cost-effective and scalable, ideal for rural and semi-urban regions, compliant with animal welfare laws, potentially reducing legal issues for transporters, and adaptable to double-storied configurations, making it suitable for larger vehicles and heavier loads.
India’s space journey not about racing others,
but
AI-led innovation driving growth in India’s radiology sector: Report
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) India is witnessing a significant uptick in the adoption of diagnostic radiology devices, with a major rise in accelerated adoption of AIpowered technologies and remote monitoring solutions, according to a report on Friday.
The report by 1Lattice, a techenabled market intelligence firm, also attributed the growth to rising disease burden, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure.
It revealed that India has registered 1.48 lakh radiology devices, with Maharashtra (20,590), Tamil Nadu (15,267), and Uttar Pradesh (12,236) leading the charge.
These figures reflect a broader trend toward modernisation and digitisation of diagnostic services, even beyond urban centres.
“Radiology is evolving from being a hospital-based specialty to a cornerstone of primary and preventive care. The convergence of AI, portability, and remote monitoring is unlocking access, improving accuracy, and reshaping the delivery
of diagnostics across India’s healthcare system,” said Sanjay Sachdeva, Director - Healthcare and Lifesciences, 1Lattice.
Radiology's impact is further enhanced by AI-powered Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), enabling real-time tracking and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits through remote health monitoring.
Globally, the radiology equipment market is poised for strong growth. The global market is projected to rise from $34 billion in 2025 to $43 billion by 2030, reflecting a 5 per cent CAGR.
On the other hand, the Indian radiology equipment market is poised to grow from $7.1 billion in FY2025 to $13.5 billion by FY2030, outpacing global growth with a 10 per cent CAGR, the report said.
The growth drivers include technological advancements in digital radiography and ultrasound; a rise in chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions; government schemes like Ayushman Bharat and the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM).
As healthcare delivery in India becomes more decentralised and tech-driven, radiology will be central to driving outcomes through timely and accurate diagnosis.
AI surge in India requires additional 45-50 million sq ft real estate: Report
grounded
in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’: PM Modi
‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, that is, the world is one family, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday.
Amid increased race in space exploration by global powers, PM Modi urged for collective growth via space exploration at addressing the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX 2025) via a video message.
"India’s space journey is not about racing others. It is about reaching higher together. Together, we share a common goal to explore space for the good of humanity,"
PM Modi said.
“India’s space vision is grounded in the ancient wisdom of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, that is, the world is one family. We strive not just for our own growth, but to enrich global knowledge, address common challenges, and inspire future generations,” he added.
Calling India’s space journey “remarkable”, he said, it reflects a “declaration of curiosity, courage, and collective progress” rather than just a “destination”
New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) As demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure grows, the country could require an additional 45–50 million square feet of real estate space and 40-45 terawatt hours (TWH) incremental power by 2030 to meet the growing demand for AI, a report showed on Thursday.
India offers cost advantages, a renewable energy focus and a strategic location for the development of data centres, said a Deloitte report.
The report further suggests that targeted policy interventions will be critical in positioning India as a global AI hub.
The report identifies six key pillars for India to reach its full potential in building a worldleading and AI-ready ecosystem.
These pillars are real estate, power and utilities infrastructure, connectivity and network infrastructure, compute infrastructure, talent and policy framework.
"For India to accelerate its AI capabilities and realise its potential, it is necessary to introduce enabling policies to support the sector. India must develop its AI-ready infrastructure to meet this rising demand for data analytics and processing,” said S Anjani Kumar, Partner, Deloitte India.
“Moreover, strengthening research and development (R&D), improving talent pipelines, securing vernacular datasets and supportive policies will further accelerate the AIdriven growth. By addressing key areas of growth and investment and promoting stronger public–private partnerships, India can solidify its position as a global AI ecosystem leader,” Kumar added. India's strategic location allows it to serve domestic and global markets effectively, positioning it as a critical node in the global data centre ecosystem.
New
(IANS)
New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) India’s space journey is not about racing others, but is grounded in
Eating a healthy diet in childhood can delay menstrual onset in girls: Study
New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) Eating a diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in childhood can delay the onset of menstruation in girls, according to a new study. The findings, published in the journal Human Reproduction remained unaltered by the girls’ body mass index (BMI) or height, both of which have been associated with the earlier onset of periods.
The study has implications for health in later life as it is well known that women who started their periods at an early age may be at higher risk for diabetes, obesity, breast cancer, and diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
“I think our findings highlight
the need for all children and adolescents to have access to healthy meal options and the importance of school-based breakfasts and lunches being based on evidence-based guidelines,” said Holly Harris, Associate Professor at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, US.
The findings come from a large, prospective study of more than 7,500 children, aged between 9 and 14.
The researchers assessed the girls’ diets against two established dietary patterns: the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), and the Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Pattern (EDIP).
The AHEI awards more points for healthier foods, including vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, while unhealthy foods such as red and processed meats, trans fats and salt are awarded fewer points.
The EDIP scores diets in a way that reflects their overall potential for causing inflammation in the body.
Foods that are linked to greater inflammation include red and processed meat, meat from animal organs, refined grains, and high-energy drinks.
“We observed that these two dietary patterns were associated with age at menarche, indicating that a healthier diet was linked to menstrual periods starting at an older age. Importantly, these results were independent of BMI and height, demonstrating the importance of a healthy diet regardless of body size,” Harris said.
The researchers believe that these results suggest the type of food eaten by girls during childhood and adolescence and its impact on inflammation may be what is influencing the time of menarche, rather than height and BMI.
1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men globally face sexual abuse by age 15 or younger: The Lancet
New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) Nearly one out of five women and one out of seven men aged 20, and older globally experienced sexual violence by age 15 or even younger, according to a study published in the journal The Lancet on Thursday.
The research from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, US, showed that 67 per cent of females and 72 per cent of males reported being first sexually abused during childhood, before the age of 18.
Almost 42 per cent of females and approximately 48 per cent
of males said their first sexual violence incident occurred before the age of 16. Alarmingly, 8 per cent of female survivors and 14 per cent of male survivors reported being first exposed to sexual violence before 12.
“Sexual violence against children is a widespread human rights and public health issue, and the world is clearly failing to end it,” said senior author Dr. Emmanuela Gakidou, Professor at IHME.
“The proportion of survivors facing sexual abuse at such a young age is deeply concerning, and we need urgent action from all countries to improve laws, policies, and the ways experts respond,” Gakidou said.
The analysis is based on the newest Global Burden of Disease research covering 204 locations by age and sex from 1990 to 2023, while accounting for when people were first exposed to such violence.
“Survivors of sexual violence
against children have a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections, and even asthma. Sexual violence against children (SVAC) can also impact their social development, educational outcome, and economic achievement, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention measures and responsive support systems to mitigate these lifelong consequences,” said Dr. Luisa Flor, Assistant Professor at IHME. The study also exposed critical gaps in data collection and inconsistencies in measurement, emphasising the urgent need for expanded surveillance programmes, particularly in lowand middle-income countries.
Establishing standardised best practices for tracking sexual violence against children can help experts identify the barriers to disclosure, reporting, and care and create better child protection policies.
Indian-origin researcher develops probiotic cocktail to help ward off dementia
New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) An Indian-origin researcher in the US has developed a probiotic cocktail that will help prevent dementia -- a condition that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities of more than 57 million people worldwide.
The cocktail, developed by Hariom Yadav from the University of South Florida, is a unique blend of probiotics that can positively impact the microbiome -- the unseen community of microorganisms that live by the trillions in a person's gut.
While in healthy individuals, the microorganisms live harmoniously in their vast internal community, the gut also can become populated with certain bacteria and viruses.
Fatty liver in pregnancy may increase risk of preterm birth
New Delhi, May 9 (IANS)
Pregnant women with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have an increased risk of giving birth prematurely and the risk increase cannot be explained by obesity, according to a new study on Friday.
It is estimated that as many as three out of ten people globally have MASLD, previously called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Common risk factors are metabolic disorders such as Type 2 diabetes and overweight or obesity.
The disease has become increasingly common, including among women of reproductive age.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have now investigated the association between maternal MASLD and pregnancy and neonatal birth outcomes.
Their findings, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, showed that women with MASLD were more than three times more likely to give birth prematurely. The risk did not increase with MASLD severity and the increase in risk persisted even when compared to overweight or obese women without known MASLD.
“This suggests that the association is not only due to a high body mass index (BMI) and that the liver disease itself can have negative effects,” explains lead author Carole A. Marxer, a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet.
The study is based on Swedish registry data and includes a total of 240 births among women with MASLD and 1,140 matched births of women from the general population.
Women with MASLD also had a 63 per cent higher risk of caesarean section than the control group. However, this seems to be explained by high BMI as no increase in risk was seen compared to overweight or obese women without fatty liver disease.
“It is important that pregnant women with MASLD are closely monitored during pregnancy to reduce the risk of complications. Consideration should also be given to adding specific recommendations for pregnant women to the clinical guidelines for MASLD,” Marxer said.
“It is also worth noting that we did not find any increased risk in women with MASLD of having children with congenital malformations or of having children who died at birth,” added Jonas F. Ludvigsson, paediatrician at Orebro University Hospital and professor at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet.
CCRAS revives rare ayurvedic manuscripts to boost India’s literary heritage
New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, on Wednesday announced it has revived two rare and significant Ayurvedic manuscripts strengthening India’s literary heritage in traditional medicine.
The manuscripts Dravyaratnakara Nighau and Dravyanamakara Nighau were unveiled during an event organised by the RRAP Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Mumbai.
This can cause disruptions throughout the body, ultimately triggering a progression over time that contributes to dementia and Alzheimer's disease -- the most common cause of dementia.
The probiotic cocktail, detailed in the journal Scientific Reports, suggest that the concoction could become a novel therapy to help lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
“These texts are not just historical artefacts -- they are living knowledge systems that can transform contemporary healthcare approaches when studied and applied thoughtfully,” said Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS, New Delhi.
Acharya emphasised the importance of such revivals in bridging India’s ancient wisdom with contemporary research frameworks. These critical editions are
expected to serve as invaluable resources for students, researchers, academicians, and Ayurveda practitioners, further inspiring scholarly exploration and deeper engagement with India’s classical medical literature. Dravyaratnakara Nighantu was authored by Mudgala Paita in 1480 AD. The previously unpublished lexicon consists of eighteen chapters offering in-depth knowledge of drug synonyms, therapeutic actions, and medicinal properties. It was a widely referenced text in Maharashtra until the 19th century, and it draws from classical Nighantus like Dhanvantari and Raja Nighantu while documenting numerous novel medicinal substances from plant, mineral, and animal origins.
Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country.
She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.
An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As
someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."
At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant
Hydration is Key
Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
Summeris all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking fresh and vibrant.
Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife
Protect from the Sun
Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.
Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."
Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to address different skin concerns due to stress and a hazardous environment, Laneige offers solutions that awaken your skin’s ultimate moisture potential.
the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let the sun and heat take a toll on your nail health; follow these expertrecommended tips to keep your nails looking fabulous.
Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
Chase the sun, not the damage: Smart skin care choices for summer
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.
"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.
Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends
to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."
While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."
The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."
Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India
Iamso excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.
In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and
high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.
In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.
The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.
Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in
Diljit says ‘I am learning English’ to Nicole Scherzinger in BTS from MET Gala
Pussycat
Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger shared a behindthe-scenes moment from the MET Gala 2025 featuring Shakira, Tessa Thompson and Diljit Dosanjh, who said he was “learning English.”
Scherzinger took to her Instagram stories, where Shakira could be seen getting her dress fixed and Diljit was on his phone.
In the clip, Scherzinger is heard saying: “This is the behind-thescenes that people don’t see. Shakira just said ow because of
the needles.”
She pans the camera to Tessa and says that “she cannot sit down.”
Scherzinger then pans the camera to Diljit, who is seen reading on the phone. He then says “I am learning English.”
Diljit also shared some pictures from the gala featuring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Nick Jonas and Shakira on his Instagram stories section. The Punjabi sensation looked every inch a Maharaja as he made his debut at the MET Gala 2025.
For the world’s biggest fashion event, the actor-singer stayed true to his roots, donning a look that beautifully blended Punjabi culture with regal elegance. Diljit wore an outfit designed by Prabal Gurung. He wore an ivory-hued ensemble, paired with a bejeweled turban, a neckpeice, and a sheathed sword. He completed it with a cape which had Punjabi wordings written on it.
The Met Gala is the annual haute couture fundraising festival held for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in Manhattan. The Met Gala is popularly regarded as the world's most prestigious and glamorous fashion event.
The 2025 theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is inspired by Monica L Miller's book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, published in 2009. The fashion gala for the first time has put the spotlight on menswear.
The event is co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams and Vogue’s Anna Wintour, with athletes like Simone Biles and Angel Reese and singers like Doechii and Usher serving on the host committee.
Kiara Advani flaunts baby bump at MET Gala, hubby Sidharth is smitten
gold sculpted breastplate with two hearts with a dramatic white cape.
Shah Rukh Khan says ‘Met Gala is not my space’
Shah Rukh Khan showed his appreciation for ace designer Sabyasachi for making him feel like a 'King' during his Met Gala debut.
Claiming that Met is not his 'space', SRK thanked the designer and his team for keeping him comfortable.
"Thx @sabyasachiofficial & ur whole team for introducing me to the Met Gala. It’s not my ‘space’ but u made me feel so comfortable…becos u, like me, believe…Style & Fashion… is just being who you are. And all of u made me feel like a ‘K’!," he
wrote on his Instagram account. Reacting to the post, Aditi Rao Hydar commented, "The bestest ever… forever," along with red heart emojis.
Ananya Panday also shared several red heart emojis in the comment section.
Shah Rukh's post also included some stylish pictures from the gala where King Khan posed in a floor-sweeping black trench coat layered over an unbuttoned shirt. His ensemble was enhanced with chunky jewellery consisting of eye-popping diamond-studded pendants, along with several rings. One of these pendants was emblazoned with "K". He further carried a walking stick with a tiger top on the red carpet as part of his look.
As is correctly said, 'mimicry is the sincerest form of flattery', SRK’s BFF Kajol decided to give her co-star a huge compliment by coming up with her version of SRK's Met look.
"Hmmmmmmmm, spot the difference," Kajol teased Shah Rukh in the caption.
Diljit steps out as Punjabi royalty for MET Gala, fans say ‘Punjabi aagaye oye’
Gala at the The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Kiara took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures dressed in Gaurav Gupta Couture titled ‘Bravehearts’. She wore a
The actress wrote: “Mama’s first Monday in May.”
Her actor husband Sidharth Malhotra couldn’t take his eyes off his wife as he shared the pictures on his Instagram stories and wrote: “Heart emoji both brave hearts.”
The designer, who had previously dressed Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt for her Paris Fashion Week debut, broke down the outfit and mentioned that the outfit worn by the actress had a deeper meaning.
“Kiara Advani (@kiaraaliaadvani) in custom Gaurav Gupta Couture titled ‘Bravehearts’ at her debut Met Gala. A tribute to defiance, legacy, and new beginnings. Bravehearts is built on the spirit of the Black Dandy — those who challenged norms and reshaped culture with grace, strength, and individuality,” Gupta wrote.
He added: On the pregnant Kiara Advani, the look takes on deeper meaning; representing how identity is inherited and reimagined through generations. At its core, a gold sculpted breastplate with two heartsmother and child, connected by an abstract umbilical cord. She is enveloped in a dramatic white cape echoing André Leon Talley’s 2010 Met Gala look, the piece is both armour and offering.”
The designer has a long list of celebrities, who have sported his creations including names such as Beyonce, Shakira, Jenna Ortega, Jr Ntr. Bebe Rexha, Sharon Stone, Jeena Ortega, Sharon Stone, Ashanti, Luis Fonsi, Lizzo, Kylie Minogue, Megan Thee Stallion, Saweetie, Paris Hilton, Mindy Kaling, Angela Bassett, Priyanka Chopra Jonas,
Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh once again sweeped everyone off their feet as he looked every inch a Maharaja at the MET Gala 2025.
Diljit, who made India proud with his appearances at Coachella and Paris Fashion Week, marked his Met Gala debut this year. For the world’s biggest fashion extravaganza, the actor-singer stayed true to his roots, donning a look that beautifully blended Punjabi culture with regal elegance.
Diljit wore an outfit designed by Prabal Gurung. He wore an ivory-hued ensemble, paired with a bejeweled turban, a neckpeice, and a sheathed sword. He completed it with a cape which had Punjabi wordings written on it.
He shared a video on his Instagram, where the actor is seen
walking into his car while the fans could be heard saying: “Punjabi aagaye oye,” a catchphrase Diljit often uses.
Filmmaker Karan Johar too gave a shout out to Diljit and called him “Fashion Royalty.”
He wrote: “Fashion Royalty!! Always on point!! A forever fashionista!”
The Met Gala is the annual haute couture fundraising festival held for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in Manhattan. The Met Gala is popularly regarded as the world's most prestigious and glamorous fashion event.
Attendees are given the opportunity to express themselves through fashion, often producing elaborate and highly publicized outfits inspired by the evening's theme and broader cultural context.
The 2025 theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is inspired by Monica L Miller's book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, published in 2009. The fashion gala for the first time has put the spotlight on menswear. The event is co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams and Vogue’s Anna Wintour, with athletes like Simone Biles and Angel Reese and singers like Doechii and Usher serving on the host committee.
Bollywood actress Kiara Advani debuted her blossoming baby bump in a stunning ensemble by ace couturier Gaurav Gupta as she attended the 2025 MET
Wednesday,
Mumbai: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) illuminated in Tiranga lights to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor in Mumbai on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
Riyadh: President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a meeting at the Royal Palace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
Ranchi: Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth participates in the 150-feet-long ‘Tiranga Yatra’ to mark the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ in Ranchi, Jharkhand, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
Patna: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Tejaswi Yadav pays tribute to the Martyred Soldier Rambabu Prasad, at Patna Airport, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma during a courtesy visit at his official residence ‘Varsha’ in Mumbai on Tuesday, May 14, 2025.
Bhubaneswar: People participate in the ‘Tiranga Yatra’ to mark the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ in Bhubaneswar on
May 14, 2025.
Swearing-in-Ceremony of the Chief Justice of India
Nagpur: Indian captain Virat Kohli acknowledges the crowd as he walks back to the pavilion after getting dismissed on Day 3 of the second test match between India and Sri Lanka at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on Nov 26, 2017. He scored 213 runs.
New Delhi: Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi meet President Droupadi Murmu and brief her on Operation Sindoor in New Delhi on Wednesday, May 14,
Jalandhar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with the Indian Air Force personnel at Adampur Air Base, in Jalandhar, Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pays tribute to his wife, late Manju Kumari Sinha, on her death anniversary in Patna on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
New Delhi: Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, Air Marshal AK Bharti, Vice Admiral A. N. Pramod and Major General SS Sharda address a press briefing on ‘Operation Sindoor’ in New Delhi, Monday, May 12, 2025.
Moscow: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Indian Cinema’s Biggest Icons Head to Australia for “Thug Life Festival”
Sydney, May 23: In a historic celebration of Indian cinema, Just Grow Productions is bringing the biggest stars of Indian film to Australian shores for an unforgettable night. The Thug Life Festival, set to take place on Friday, 23rd May 2025 at Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, will unite fans with legendary names from the silver screen — Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, AR Rahman, Silambarasan (Simbu), and Trisha.
Marking one of the most highly anticipated Pan-Indian cinematic events ever hosted in Australia, the festival promises more than just entertainment — it’s a cultural bridge connecting Indian heritage to the diaspora. Attendees will be treated to a grand cinematic showcase, live musical performances by AR Rahman, special cast appearances, and exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from the film Thug Life, slated for theatrical release on 5th June 2025.
Presented by Kamal Haasan
and directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life is already generating immense buzz, with fans eagerly awaiting its multilingual release in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. The event is being hailed not only as a film preview but as a celebration of Indian storytelling, creativity, and stardom.
"Bringing Thug Life to Australia isn’t just about the movie — it’s about creating a shared moment with our community abroad," said a spokesperson from Just Grow Productions. "This festival is a heartfelt tribute to the power of Indian cinema and its global impact." Tickets are available now via Ticketek. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness Indian cinema royalty live on stage.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 23rd May 2025
Time: 7:00 PM (Ticketed entry)
Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
HOUSEFULL 5
RELEASE DATE: 6 June 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Sajid Nadiadwala
DIRECTOR: Tarun Mansukhani
TEHRAN
RELEASE DATE: TBC
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Bake My Cake Films, Maddock Films
DIRECTOR: Arun Gopalan
CAST: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, Hadi Khanjanpour
Imtiaz Ali calls it a ‘proud moment’ as ‘My Melbourne’ wins best film at UK Asian Film Festival
Imtiaz Ali, Onir, Rima Das, and Kabir Khan's collaborative anthology film ‘My Melbourne’ has won the prestigious Best Film award at the 27th UK Asian Film Festival.
The victory marks a proud moment for Indian cinema on a global platform, celebrating stories of diversity, identity, and cross-cultural connections through the lens of four acclaimed Indian filmmakers. The anthology ‘My Melbourne’ secured two top
honours at the 2025 Tongues on Fire Flame Awards — Best Film and the Special Festival Award for ‘Longing and Belonging.’
Speaking about the win, filmmaker Imtiaz Ali shared, “Working on My Melbourne was a deeply enriching experience. To see it being honoured in this way reaffirms the importance of stories that explore human emotions beyond geographical limits. It’s a proud moment for all of us.”
Director Onir, who helmed one of the segments in the anthology, added, “This project was close to my heart because it gave us the opportunity to tell stories that matter, stories that cross boundaries and touch the universal emotions of longing and belonging. I'm humbled and proud to be part of this beautiful journey.”
Kabir Khan expressed, “Cinema has the power to bridge cultures and foster empathy, and My Melbourne is a testament to that. I’m truly grateful to have been part of a project that brings such meaningful narratives to life and gets recognized on a global platform.”
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and producer of 'My Melbourne', also mentioned they feel incredibly honoured and grateful for this recognition. “My Melbourne is a labour of love that celebrates authentic diverse voices and lived experiences. These awards are not just wins for the film, but for every story of identity, resilience, and community it represents.”
“My Melbourne” is a bold crosscultural anthology featuring four distinct stories that delve into themes of identity and the search for belonging. The film brings together Indian directors and emerging Australian filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds, creating a powerful cinematic conversation around multiculturalism and personal connection.
Rajkummar Rao shares details about his wedding: We didn’t have ceremonies
Madhura Naik makes scathing attack on Mandana Karimi for her propaganda remark
Actress Madhura Naik, who is known for her work in television, has made a scathing attack on Iranian actress Mandana Karimi for the latter’s unsubstantiated remarks on India’s retaliatory action on terror camps in Pakistan.
As his upcoming film Bhool Chuk Maaf, which revolves around marriage and a time loop, gears up for a digital release, actor Rajkummar Rao reflected on his own wedding with actress Patralekhaa, sharing that they skipped ceremonies and instead celebrated with a series of parties on repeat. Asked what part of wedding ceremonies he would still be wanting to be on repeat, Rajkummar told IANS: “At my wedding, we didn’t have ceremonies like sangeet or haldi. We just had parties—one during the day on the first day, then another at night. Then came the wedding, followed by another party that night. It was already on a loop!” “We had theme parties like a pool party and a white party like that,” added Rajkummar, who married Patralekhaa in 2021 in Chandigarh after over a decade of dating.
“Bhool Chuk Maaf follows a small-town romantic boy named Ranjan from Banaras, who lands a government job to marry Titli but forgets his vow to Lord Shiva-only to be trapped in a time-loop until he fulfills his promise.
Mandana had taken to the Stories section of her Instagram, and penned a long note. She falsely painted India’s action as an act of terror and said that India was “bombing Pakistani Kashmir murdering civilians”.
Responding to the same, Madhura penned a long note, as she wrote, “It is deeply disturbing and absolutely unacceptable that a foreign national, an Iranian woman residing in India and benefitting from its opportunities and freedoms, would dare to malign the very nation that has hosted her with dignity, respect, and inclusiveness. Her recent public statements falsely accusing India of “bombing Pakistani Kashmir” and labeling our civilizational ethos as “Hindutva fascism” are not only factually incorrect but are also steeped in dangerous propaganda aimed at inciting discord”.
Madhura, who is half Israeli, called it an “irresponsible rhetoric” especially coming from someone with visibility and influence in public life, must be met with the strictest scrutiny. She further mentioned, “It is imperative to ask: would she
be permitted to speak in such a manner against her own homeland, Iran, with the same impunity? The answer is selfevident. India, unlike many other nations, offers freedom of speech, but this freedom cannot and must not be abused to vilify our national integrity, our religious beliefs, or our armed forces. Referring to Jammu & Kashmir, an inseparable and sovereign part of India, as “Pakistani Kashmir” is not only a gross misrepresentation of reality but a direct challenge to the territorial and constitutional sanctity of our nation”.
“It is the duty of every citizen, and indeed every guest living within our borders, to uphold the sovereignty, unity, and dignity of Bharat. Those who enjoy the fruits of our hospitality while sowing seeds of hatred and misinformation should be held accountable under the law. I strongly urge the Ministry of External Affairs @meaindia and relevant authorities to initiate a thorough investigation into her statements, and if found in violation of Indian laws, take appropriate legal and diplomatic action. Let this serve as a precedent: India will not tolerate hate speech, antinational propaganda, or cultural defamation, not from its citizens, and certainly not from those who reside here as guests. Bharat Mata ki Jai”, she added.
Gul Panag takes a dig at Pakistan as they celebrate IMF loan
Gul Panag just handed Pakistan a masterclass in financial independence and subtly reminded them that “India has not taken any financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund since 1993.”
A Pakistani netizen on X, formerly called Twitter, wrote: “In a humiliating defeat for India, The IMF executive board has approved $1 billion second loan tranche. India unsuccessfully tried to block the approval by the IMF board.”
Giving a sharp rebuke cloaked in courtesy, Gul, whose father Lt. Gen. Panag was in the
army, replied saying: “ Sir, congratulations on another loan. With respect, we don’t need that money. You do. FYI, We have not taken any financial assistance from the IMF since 1993. Repayments of all the loans taken from International Monetary Fund have been completed on 31 May, 2000. (https://dea.gov.in/ sites/default/files/India_IMF_0. pdf… ) ”
She also shared a link, which mentioned: “India has not taken any financial assistance from the IMF since 1993.Repayments of all the loans taken from
International Monetary Fund have been completed on 31 May, 2000.”
On May 9, India strongly opposed further financial assistance from the IMF to Pakistan at the executive board meeting held on Friday, expressing serious concerns over Islamabad’s track record and the fact that the bailouts were enabling the cash-strapped country to sponsor cross-border terrorism.
India abstained from voting on extending a fresh $1.3 billion IMF loan to Pakistan under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) lending program at the meeting.
Escalation followed India's launch of Operation Sindoor -- a series of focused and precise strikes on nine terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) — in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. Pakistan deployed between 300 and 400 drones, identified preliminarily as Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models, on the night of May 8 and May 9. Many were intercepted using a combination of kinetic and electronic warfare systems, including the Barak-8 and S-400 Triumph missile defence platforms, Akash SAMs, and indigenous anti-drone technologies. Among the locations targeted were Srinagar airport, the Awantipora airbase, Nagrota, Jammu, Pathankot, Fazilka, and Jaisalmer.
Nora Fatehi expresses gratitude to Indian Armed Forces for their courage, sacrifice and dedication
Ayesha Jhulka expresses pride to unwavering courage of India’s Armed Forces
Actress Ayesha Jhulka, who was raised in an Army family, has said that she is proud of her father, Wing Commander Inder Kumar Jhulka, and expressed her gratitude to the unwavering courage of the Indian Armed Forces.
Ayesha took to Instagram, where she shared a monochrome picture of her father on duty and wrote: “Proud of my Dad Our Armed Forces - Brave at heart, they stand so tall, Guarding borders, answering the call. In every storm, they never sway, Our heroes in olive, night and day.”
Actress-dancer
Nora Fatehi has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery, sacrifice, and dedication in protecting the nation. She acknowledges their role in giving hope during difficult times and prays for their safety and peace. Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Nora, who is of Moroccan descent, took to her Instagram stories to thank the Indian Armed Forces for their “relentless efforts” to keep India protected. She wrote: “Dear Indian Armed Forces, In these challenging times, I'd like to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering courage, sacrifice, and dedication. Your relentless efforts in protecting the borders, ensuring the safety and sovereignty of India does not go unnoticed.” She said she is praying for peace around the world. Nora said: “While the country goes through testing moments, your strength and commitment inspire us and give us hope.
Escalation followed India's launch of Operation Sindoor -- a series of focused and precise strikes on nine terror camps located in
Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) — in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. Born in Srinagar, Ayesha, she is the daughter of Wing Commander Inder Kumar, is a retired Air Force officer. Her mother Sneh Jhulka, is a costume designer who has worked in films such as Dalaal and Vishwavidhata.
In a career spanning over three decades, Ayesha she has worked in over 60 films, which includes films such as “Kurbaan”, “Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar”, “Khiladi”, “Dalaal”, “Balmaa”, “Waqt Hamara Hai”, “Rang”, Sangram, Jai Kishen, Masoom and Hote Hote Pyar Ho Gaya.
Janhvi Kapoor reminds that India is not an aggressive country amidst conflict with Pakistan
Justlike all of us, actress Janhvi Kapoor is also devastated and extremely concerned about the growing tension between India and Pakistan.
Taking to her Instagram stories, Janhvi penned an emotional note that read, "The visuals that unfolded on news channels and social media last night felt like they were something out of a movie, something I never fathomed I'd see in this lifetime happening on Indian soil. It was a kind of anxiety I had never experienced before. And it made me think of all the times we'd remark on foreign conflicts from a safe distance and call for an end to any and all kinds of confrontation between countries. But this time it's at our door step." The diva stated that, as history is proof, India is not an aggressive country.
