Author: Akancha Mishra

India and Iran have reaffirmed their diplomatic engagement through high-level discussions held in New Delhi, focusing on bilateral cooperation as well as key regional and international developments. The meeting took place between Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs Sibi George and Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi. The Iranian delegation also included Ambassador Mohammad Fathali, along with other senior officials. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions covered a wide range of topics, including bilateral relations and the evolving geopolitical situation in the region. The talks also addressed recent developments affecting…

A newly released illustrated children’s book is aiming to introduce Hindu philosophy and traditions to younger audiences through simple language, colorful imagery, and relatable moral lessons. Titled Discovering Hinduism: The Timeless Path of Kindness, Truth & Love, the book has been written by Ohio-based Indian American author Usha Mahajan and is designed for children between the ages of six and 12. Spanning 63 pages, the publication focuses on presenting Hinduism in a gentle and accessible way without diving deeply into complex theological discussions. Instead, the book explains important spiritual ideas using short stories, everyday examples, and easy-to-understand concepts intended for…

Acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair is set to release her new cinematic project titled “Amri,” a film inspired by the life and artistic legacy of celebrated Indian painter Amrita Sher-Gil, who is widely regarded as a pioneer of modern art in India. The upcoming production brings together an international cast and aims to portray Sher-Gil’s journey, identity, and creative influence. The film features Anjali Sivaraman in the lead role as Amrita Sher-Gil. The cast also includes Emily Watson as Marie-Antoinette Gottesman, Jaideep Ahlawat as Umrao Singh Sher-Gil, Krisztian Csakvari as Victor Egan, Anjana Vasan as Indira Sher-Gil, Jim Sarbh as Karl…

India is preparing to introduce a major manufacturing initiative designed to strengthen local production capabilities and reduce dependence on imported goods across several important industries. The upcoming “Made in India Brand Scheme” is expected to encourage domestic manufacturing while helping Indian products gain stronger recognition in international markets. The announcement was made by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia during the Confederation of Indian Industry Annual Business Summit 2026. According to officials, the government has identified close to 100 products that are either not being manufactured within the country or are currently produced in…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a grand roadshow in Somnath, Gujarat, on Monday, followed by prayers at the historic Somnath Temple, as part of events leading up to the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav. The celebrations mark 75 years since the reconstruction and inauguration of the revered temple by India’s first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad. The roadshow witnessed a massive turnout of supporters who gathered along the streets of Somnath to welcome the Prime Minister. Security was significantly tightened across key locations in the city to ensure smooth conduct of the event. The enthusiastic public reception highlighted the importance of the visit…

India and Vietnam expanded their maritime and scientific partnership after INS Sagardhwani completed a successful visit to Cam Ranh, Vietnam, from May 4 to May 8. The Indian Ministry of Defence stated that the visit reflected the growing cooperation between both countries in naval engagement, marine research, and regional security efforts. During the visit, the commanding officer of the Indian Navy’s oceanographic research vessel met senior Vietnamese military and naval officials to discuss ways to strengthen maritime collaboration. Conversations focused on increasing professional exchanges, improving naval training programs, and developing joint scientific initiatives. The discussions also marked the continuing progress…

Germany has described India as its “country of choice” for skilled worker migration, highlighting the growing role of Indian professionals, students, and apprentices in supporting the European nation’s economy and labour market needs. Speaking at a United Nations event on digital innovation in migration governance, Germany’s Commissioner for Multilateral Affairs, Florian Laudi, said the cooperation between India and Germany has become a model partnership that benefits migrants, host economies, and the source country alike. Laudi noted that Germany is facing an increasing labour shortage and sees India as one of its most important partners for skilled migration. He said Indian…

New York authorities have returned hundreds of stolen Indian antiquities valued at nearly $14 million, marking one of the largest recent recoveries of cultural artifacts linked to international smuggling operations. The handover included 657 items of historical and religious significance, many of them connected to long-running investigations involving alleged antiquities traffickers. The return was officially announced by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg Jr., who stated that the recovery demonstrates the enormous scale of trafficking networks that targeted India’s cultural heritage over several decades. The ceremony for the repatriation took place at the Consulate General of India in New York and…

India is increasingly being viewed as a pivotal force capable of shaping the future trajectory of global geoeconomics, according to a new strategic assessment that highlights the country’s growing diplomatic, economic, and technological influence in a rapidly changing world order. The report argues that the foundations of globalization established after the Cold War are undergoing a profound transformation as geopolitical rivalries intensify and economic systems become more strategically aligned with national security priorities. In this evolving environment, India is emerging not merely as an observer but as an active participant capable of influencing international outcomes. Former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal…

Indian model Bhavitha Mandava became one of the most talked-about celebrities at the 2026 Met Gala after arriving in a unique Chanel ensemble that sparked widespread discussion online. While many attendees embraced dramatic couture looks for fashion’s biggest night, Mandava stood out with a minimalist outfit inspired by denim, drawing both curiosity and criticism across social media platforms. The 26-year-old New York University graduate wore a custom Chanel creation designed by the fashion house’s creative director Matthieu Blazy. Her outfit featured a beige muslin half-zip sweater, a white top, and specially crafted pants printed to resemble jeans. Although the look…