The Northeast region has recently achieved a remarkable milestone by securing two esteemed accolades from the Indian NGO Awards Council, highlighting the exceptional contributions of its individuals to society. Among the notable winners is Dr. Shongsir Warson Monsang, a distinguished figure hailing from the state of Tripura. His recognition as the recipient of the National Talent Award for 2026 underscores his significant impact in the field of veterinary medicine, particularly in the areas of surgery and animal health care. Dr. Monsang serves as the Professor and Head of the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology at the Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry institution. His expertise and dedication to advancing veterinary practices have not only elevated the standards of animal care but have also inspired countless students and professionals in the field. The award he received is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to improving the health and well-being of animals, which is crucial for both agricultural productivity and public health. This recognition not only honors Dr. Monsang's individual achievements but also shines a spotlight on the Northeast's growing prominence in various sectors, including veterinary sciences. It reflects the region's potential to contribute significantly to national and global challenges in animal health and welfare. As the veterinary community continues to evolve, the work of dedicated professionals like Dr. Monsang will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of animal care and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural practices in India. Shongsir Nicodim Monsang, the Headmaster In-Charge of Japhou Upper Primary School located in the Chandel District of Manipur, has been honored with the prestigious Tagore International Award for 2026. This accolade recognizes his outstanding contributions to primary education, distinguishing him as the best teacher and headmaster from the state of Manipur. His dedication to fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment has not only impacted his students but has also set a benchmark for educational excellence in the region. Throughout his career, Shongsir Nicodim Monsang has garnered numerous accolades within the educational sector, reflecting his unwavering commitment to teaching and leadership. His innovative approaches to education, combined with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by students in his community, have enabled him to implement effective strategies that enhance learning outcomes. His ability to inspire both students and fellow educators has made him a respected figure in the field, further solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader in education. Winning the Tagore International Award is a testament to Shongsir Nicodim Monsang's relentless pursuit of excellence and his significant contributions to the educational landscape. This recognition not only highlights his individual achievements but also brings attention to the importance of quality education in shaping the future of young minds. As he continues to lead Japhou Upper Primary School, his vision and dedication will undoubtedly inspire others to strive for greatness in the realm of education, fostering a brighter future for the next generation.

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar will undertake a two-day official visit to Russia, beginning tomorrow. The Minister will co-chair the 27th Session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation. During the visit, Dr Jaishankar will also meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and exchange perspectives on regional and global issues.

The government imposed restrictions on the manufacturing, sale and distribution of all fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) containing Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride for children below four years of age. The Health Ministry, in a notification, mandated a clear warning that these medicines shall not be used in children below four years of age, in a significant step to safeguard the health and safety of young children. The government directed manufacturers to clearly display the warning, “Fixed Dose Combination shall not be used in children below four years of age,” on the label, package insert and promotional literature associated with these formulations. The government said that the use of such combinations may pose risks to children below four years of age and that safer alternatives are available. In June this year, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare prohibited the manufacturing, sale and distribution of 16 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs for human use across the country. This decision has been taken following the recommendations of an Expert Committee and the Drug Technical Advisory Board.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has lauded West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for handing over 1,129 acres of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) for fencing along the India-Bangladesh border in the state within 45 days of the new government coming to power. He said the request for the land required for the border fence had been pending since 2014. Mr Shah was speaking while attending a programme at the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Frontier Headquarters in the Ranidanga area of Siliguri in West Bengal yesterday. The Home Minister said completing border fencing is crucial to stopping infiltration and protecting national security. He said the government will continue its zero-tolerance policy towards illegal immigration. He said the process of identifying, removing and deporting illegal immigrants will be strictly followed. He also said that demographic changes would be strictly prevented. Highlighting the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the ‘Chicken Neck’, Mr Shah said it is vital for the security of the Northeast and the country. He said the corridor, which connects the Northeast with the rest of the country and is bordered by three countries — Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh — will be protected by a triangular grid of Army posts in Chopra, Dhubri and Kishanganj. On the occasion, he laid foundation stones for infrastructure worth around 189 crore rupees and inaugurated several other projects. Union Home and Cooperation Minister also inaugurated a six-day awareness exhibition on the three new criminal laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, at Kawakhali Maidan in Siliguri. Addressing the gathering, Mr Shah said the three new criminal laws will provide greater security to citizens. He announced that the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has now been fully implemented in the state and said justice will be ensured within three years of the filing of an FIR. Mr Shah said the new criminal laws, which make extensive use of technology and forensic science, are aimed at ensuring speedy, timely and victim-centric justice. He said the judicial system will be transformed with “three Ts: Technology, Transparency and Timeline”. He said the BJP government under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari implemented the new laws within three days of assuming office, fulfilling its promise of establishing trust, not fear. He appealed to the people of North Bengal to visit the exhibition. The Home Minister also urged people associated with the justice system, law enforcement and policing in the state to visit the exhibition and familiarise themselves with the new laws. On the occasion, Mr Shah also inaugurated the newly constructed Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate building and a 20-bed drug addiction treatment centre at North Bengal Medical College and Hospital.

India and the UK have agreed to expand bilateral exchanges between the armed forces of the two countries through joint exercises, training and capacity building, as both sides held a key dialogue in Delhi. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the 25th India-UK Defence Consultative Group (DCG) meeting with Permanent Under Secretary for Defence of the UK, Jeremy Pocklington, in the National Capital. During the meeting, both countries reviewed ongoing defence industrial cooperation, with emphasis on research and development through the India-UK Vision 2035 and the Ten-Year Defence Industrial Roadmap. The Ministry of Defence said both sides acknowledged the robust maritime security collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, including the establishment of the Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. The secretaries also exchanged views on issues of regional peace and security and reaffirmed their commitment to mutual security and strategic autonomy. Both sides reiterated that the India-UK Strategic Partnership is based on shared values of peace, stability, freedom and mutual respect.

India and Nepal reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on border management and security. The discussion took place during the 14th meeting of the India-Nepal Joint Working Group (JWG), which concluded in Dehradun yesterday. Joint Secretary (BM-I) in the Union Home Ministry, Pausumi Basu, led the Indian delegation at the meeting, while the Nepalese side was led by Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ananda Kafle. The Union Home Ministry, in a statement, said that during the two-day meeting, discussions covered addressing trans-border crime and criminal activities, strengthening and effective utilisation of border infrastructure, roads and railway networks, removal of encroachments, and maintenance of boundary pillars. The two sides also exchanged views on strengthening institutional coordination and capacity building across various sectors and agreed to sustain engagement in these areas.

In Hockey, India registered a comprehensive 5-3 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in the FIH World Cup at Amstelveen in the Netherlands today, to qualify for the next round. The defeat ended Pakistan’s campaign in the group stage. The match produced a thrilling second quarter, with four goals scored between the two sides within nine minutes. For India, Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals, Hardik Singh also netted twice, while Abhishek scored one goal. India had earlier opened their campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales before suffering a 4-2 defeat against England. India and England advanced to the next round from Group D, while Pakistan’s campaign came to an end.

Narender Berwal, an international-level boxer from Sorkhi village in Hansi district of Haryana, who has brought glory to the country, has been selected for the Arjuna Award. Narender, who hails from a farming family and began his boxing journey in 2009, shared that his family and village are overjoyed following the news of his selection for this prestigious award. He received congratulatory calls from his Army Commander and the Sports Minister of Haryana. He joined the Indian Army in 2013 and subsequently delivered outstanding performances in both national and international competitions.

In Keralam, a red alert has been declared in all coastal districts of the state until this evening. There are also warnings of high waves and the swell surge phenomenon. The alert warns of potential waterlogging and sea attacks in coastal areas. Waves up to 1.8 meters high are expected until 5:30 PM today. It is also advised to completely avoid trips to beaches and recreational activities in the sea. Special caution has been advised in the areas of Chombala – Ramanattukara, Valapattanam – New Mahe, Kunchathur – Kottakkunnu, Kappil – Pozhiyoor, Chellanam – Azheekkal Jetty, Munambam – Maruvakkad, and Aattupuram – Kodungallur.

The 14th meeting of the India-Nepal Joint Working Group on border management began in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, today. The two-day high-level meeting is focusing on strengthening border security and infrastructure, along with other issues of mutual interest. The Indian delegation is led by Pausumi Basu, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, while the Nepali delegation is headed by Anand Kafle, Joint Secretary in Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Indian women’s hockey team will face South Africa in their second Pool D match of the FIH Women’s World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen, Netherlands, today. India began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Olympic silver medallists China. Ahead of the match, Indian head coach Sjoerd Marijne said the team is not focusing on calculations after missing out on three points against China, and will instead concentrate on its strengths. South Africa will look to bounce back after a 4-0 defeat to England in their opening match. England currently lead Pool D, while India and China are level on points in second place. The top two teams from each of the four pools will advance to the next stage of the tournament. Meanwhile, India suffered a 2-4 defeat to England in their second Pool D match of the FIH Men’s World Cup in Amstelveen, the Netherlands, yesterday. India trailed 1-0 but fought back to lead 2-1 at half-time, with Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh scoring. England rallied in the second half, with Stuart Rushmere, Henry Croft and Nicholas Bandurak finding the net to seal a 4-2 win. After a 3-1 win over Wales in their opener, India have three points from two matches. India will face Pakistan tomorrow and need at least a draw to reach the second round. But a defeat will knock India out of the tournament.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accused opposition parties of spreading misinformation on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill for vote bank politics. In an interview with a private news agency, he said the bill will bring transparency to foreign funding flows and now the truth will come out. He said sending the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee is an excellent decision. He alleged that the opposition spread a lot of lies. He added that engaging in politics by spreading such falsehoods is absolutely wrong.