Author: Bhakti Narayanan

Puducherry is set for assembly elections on April 9, with the political contest intensifying as Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a high-energy roadshow alongside Chief Minister N Rangasamy. The campaign highlights strains within the ruling coalition while all parties prepare for a competitive election. This election features a three-way battle as actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) enters the fray, making its political debut and adding a fresh dynamic to Puducherry’s electoral landscape. The BJP, a partner in Rangasamy’s NR Congress-led government, aims to expand its footprint. In 2021, the BJP contested 14 seats and won six, while the Congress…

Ranbir Kapoor’s upcoming film Ramayana has become the center of conversation across Bollywood circles ever since the teaser dropped in India on Hanuman Jayanti. The release instantly sparked mixed reactions online. While many fans admired the visuals and Ranbir’s performance, a section of viewers expressed concerns about the casting choices. Some felt that Ranbir might not perfectly fit the role of Lord Ram, while others questioned Sai Pallavi’s portrayal of Sita. Despite the debate, Ranbir Kapoor remains fully confident in Sai Pallavi’s abilities. Speaking at a special screening in Los Angeles, Ranbir praised her acting prowess, saying, “Sai is an…

In New Delhi on Thursday, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, M Riaz Hamidullah, met with India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, to discuss enhancing bilateral defence cooperation. The discussions focused on joint training initiatives and broader opportunities for collaboration aimed at promoting regional peace and security. The Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared that the meeting explored ways to deepen ties between the two militaries while fostering stability in South Asia. Earlier, on March 26, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh emphasised India’s warm welcome to Bangladesh’s new government, highlighting…

As global interest in lunar exploration intensifies, the United States and India are advancing toward the Moon with distinctly different strategies. On April 1, 2026, NASA launched its latest Artemis mission, marking another step in its long-term plan for human space exploration. Meanwhile, India’s ISRO has already secured a historic achievement through its Chandrayaan program, highlighting a striking contrast between large-scale investment and efficient execution. The Artemis mission is a 10-day journey designed to orbit the Moon and return safely to Earth while testing essential systems. Its primary objectives include validating the Orion spacecraft, assessing navigation and communication systems, and…

 The Indian community in Australia is actively fostering women-centric entrepreneurship networks aimed at strengthening business opportunities for women. These initiatives are designed to provide comprehensive support, including mentorship programs, access to funding, and specialized training sessions, helping aspiring women entrepreneurs navigate the business landscape more effectively. Indian women are taking an active role in these programs, demonstrating significant engagement in entrepreneurial activities. Experts emphasise that such inclusive approaches are critical for fostering diversity and equitable growth in business environments. By encouraging participation from women across sectors, these networks contribute not only to individual success but also to broader community advancement.…

Sergio Gor has said that Donald Trump “deeply cares” about the relationship between the United States and India, signalling continued focus on strengthening bilateral ties. Gor shared details of his recent meeting with President Trump at the White House during a brief visit to the US. “Back in the US for a few days. First stop, meeting with our GREAT President in the White House,” he said in a public message. While the ambassador did not disclose specific details of the discussion, the meeting was also attended by Marco Rubio, according to an image shared following the interaction. The remarks…

Sergei Lavrov is expected to visit India in May to participate in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting, according to Russian officials. The visit, scheduled for May 14–15, will be part of the BRICS ministerial discussions that will help shape the agenda and final documents for the upcoming summit under India’s presidency. The information was shared by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, as reported by TASS. On the sidelines of the BRICS meeting, Lavrov is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and other Indian officials to further strengthen diplomatic engagement between the two countries. India currently holds the…

The Indian American Advocacy Council has introduced a detailed “Know Your Rights” guide aimed at supporting Indians living in the United States amid growing concerns over discrimination and hostility. The 10-page document serves as a practical resource for individuals across different immigration categories, including H-1B workers, students, green card holders, and citizens. The guide was released in response to increasing reports of online abuse, targeted harassment, and institutional challenges faced by the Indian-American community, particularly following political developments in recent years. It provides clear instructions on handling sensitive situations, such as interactions with immigration authorities, and outlines protections available in…

The IndiaSkills National Competition 2025-26 has commenced in New Delhi, bringing together over 650 participants from across the country to compete in 63 skill categories. Organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and supported by the National Skill Development Corporation, the competition features top performers selected through regional rounds held nationwide. The initiative aims to promote skill excellence and build a future-ready workforce aligned with India’s evolving economic and industrial priorities. Addressing the event, Debashree Mukherjee highlighted the importance of such platforms in encouraging youth to pursue skill-based careers and excel in their respective fields. She noted that…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Balendra Shah after he officially assumed office as Nepal’s Prime Minister. In his message, Modi expressed his readiness to work closely with Shah to strengthen ties between the two countries and create shared growth opportunities for their citizens. Shah, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party, took charge following a decisive election victory that reflects strong public trust in his leadership. His appointment marks a major shift in Nepal’s political landscape, with a clear move toward younger leadership and fresh perspectives in governance. The appointment was confirmed by President Ram Chandra Paudel in accordance with constitutional…