The US reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and intensified its airstrike campaign today in retaliation for Tehran’s attacks on ships trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials said, the American strikes hit an Iranian army barracks, killed at least seven troops and injured more than 260 people across the country. Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said that more than 30 people have been killed in recent days. Both the US and Iran have launched attacks as the blockade is reimposed. Days of back-and-forth strikes by the US and Iran across the West Asia and renewed threats to the waterway crucial to global energy supplies have shredded the interim deal to end the conflict. Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard threatened today to halt all energy exports from the West Asia over the blockade.

India is currently operating 24 nuclear power reactors across seven sites with a total installed capacity of 8.78 Gigawatt. Ten more reactor units with a combined capacity of eight thousand Megawatt are under construction. These reactors are Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors, Boiling Water Reactors and Light Water Reactors. The country is mainly using natural uranium fuel to run the Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors to produce nuclear energy. The government said that India is steadily expanding its nuclear power programme to strengthen energy security and support clean economic growth. A major outcome of the 3rd India-Australia Annual summit, which was held in Melbourne last week, was the finalisation of the Administrative Arrangement under the India-Australia Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. It enables long-term exports of Australian uranium to India for peaceful purposes. The Australian uranium will ensure a steady supply of the primary fuel to run these nuclear power reactors.

The world of art thrives on the imagination, passion, and dedication of individuals who transform ordinary moments into extraordinary visual experiences. Among such accomplished artists is Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar from Maharashtra, whose remarkable contribution to the field of Fine Arts – Painting has earned him the prestigious Tagore International Award 2026. This distinguished recognition celebrates his artistic excellence, unwavering commitment to painting, and his significant role in enriching India's vibrant cultural and artistic landscape. The Tagore International Award is one of the notable recognitions presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication in their respective fields. Inspired by the timeless ideals of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, the award honours those who uphold creativity, innovation, and cultural values through their work. Receiving this honour places Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar among a distinguished group of artists whose contributions continue to inspire society and preserve the richness of artistic traditions. Painting has always been one of the most expressive forms of human creativity. It transcends language, geography, and generations, allowing emotions, ideas, and stories to be communicated through colours, textures, and composition. For an artist, every canvas becomes a medium for reflection, imagination, and expression. Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar has embraced this philosophy throughout his artistic journey, creating works that speak to the heart while showcasing exceptional technical skill and aesthetic vision. His paintings are known for their thoughtful compositions, balanced use of colour, and the ability to evoke emotion. Whether inspired by nature, culture, human experiences, or abstract concepts, his artworks demonstrate a unique artistic identity. Each creation reflects patience, discipline, and a deep understanding of visual storytelling, making his work meaningful to both art lovers and fellow artists. The journey of a painter is often one of continuous learning and experimentation. It requires years of dedication, observation, and refinement of technique. Every brushstroke represents countless hours of practice and an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar's success is a reflection of this dedication. His consistent efforts to improve his craft and explore new artistic possibilities have enabled him to create paintings that leave a lasting impression on viewers. Fine arts play a vital role in preserving culture and expressing the collective identity of society. Through painting, artists document traditions, celebrate heritage, raise awareness about social themes, and inspire future generations. Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar's work reflects the enduring significance of visual arts as a bridge between tradition and modernity. His paintings contribute to the appreciation of India's artistic legacy while embracing contemporary creativity. Beyond artistic excellence, a painter also serves as a source of inspiration. Every successful artist motivates aspiring painters to believe in their abilities and pursue their creative dreams with confidence. Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar's recognition through the Tagore International Award demonstrates that perseverance, originality, and sincere dedication to art are qualities that receive lasting appreciation. His achievement encourages young artists to remain committed to their passion despite challenges and changing trends. Art has the remarkable ability to create dialogue without words. A single painting can inspire hope, provoke thought, celebrate beauty, or preserve memories for generations. This timeless quality makes painting one of humanity's most treasured forms of expression. Through his artistic vision, Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar has contributed to this enduring tradition, creating works that resonate with audiences and highlight the transformative power of creativity. The recognition bestowed upon him also reflects the growing appreciation for artists who continue to uphold the values of originality and cultural expression. In an era where creativity constantly evolves, painters like Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar remind us that genuine artistic expression remains rooted in observation, emotion, and authenticity. His work exemplifies how traditional artistic principles can coexist with contemporary ideas to produce meaningful visual narratives. Receiving the Tagore International Award 2026 is not merely a personal milestone but also a celebration of the broader artistic community in Maharashtra. The state has long been home to distinguished painters, sculptors, and creative visionaries who have contributed significantly to Indian art. Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar's achievement adds another chapter to this proud artistic heritage and reinforces Maharashtra's continuing contribution to the nation's cultural landscape. Recognition through such a prestigious award also brings greater visibility to the importance of fine arts in society. While technological advancements continue to reshape the modern world, painting remains a timeless discipline that nurtures imagination, emotional intelligence, and cultural understanding. Artists like Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar demonstrate that creativity continues to be one of humanity's greatest strengths, capable of connecting people across different backgrounds and experiences. Throughout history, great painters have inspired generations through their dedication to artistic excellence. Their works become part of cultural memory, influencing future artists and enriching society's appreciation of beauty and creativity. By receiving the Tagore International Award 2026, Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar joins a tradition of artists whose contributions extend beyond individual accomplishments and serve the broader cause of promoting art and culture. His success also highlights the values of patience, discipline, and lifelong learning. Every accomplished artist understands that mastery is achieved through consistent effort rather than instant success. The recognition he has earned is a testament to years of perseverance, artistic exploration, and commitment to excellence. It reminds aspiring painters that meaningful achievements are built through passion, resilience, and continuous growth. As he receives the Tagore International Award 2026 in the category of Fine Arts – Painting, Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar stands as an inspiring example of artistic dedication and creative excellence. His journey reflects the transformative power of imagination and the enduring relevance of visual arts in today's world. Through his paintings, he continues to celebrate beauty, inspire audiences, and contribute to India's rich artistic heritage. The honour bestowed upon Girish Yashavant Nimbalkar is a well-deserved recognition of his remarkable achievements in fine arts. It celebrates not only his individual talent but also the universal values of creativity, cultural preservation, and artistic innovation. As he continues his artistic journey, his work will undoubtedly inspire future generations of painters and art enthusiasts, ensuring that the spirit of creativity continues to flourish for years to come. The Tagore International Award 2026 thus stands as a fitting tribute to an artist whose passion, vision, and commitment have made a meaningful contribution to the world of painting and to the cultural fabric of India.

Cinema has long been regarded as one of the most powerful forms of artistic expression. It has the unique ability to entertain, educate, inspire, and preserve culture while giving voice to stories that deserve to be heard. In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian independent cinema, a new generation of filmmakers has emerged, choosing originality over convention and passion over commercial formulas. Among these remarkable storytellers is Jay Amonkar, an award-winning independent filmmaker from Goa whose dedication to authentic storytelling and cinematic excellence has earned him widespread recognition across national and international platforms. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to independent filmmaking and visual storytelling, Jay Amonkar has been honoured with the Tagore International Award 2026 in the category of Visual Arts – Film Directing. The prestigious recognition celebrates not only his accomplishments as a filmmaker but also his commitment to creating meaningful cinema that reflects human emotions, social realities, and the vibrant cultural identity of Goa. Jay Amonkar's journey is a story of determination, creativity, and unwavering passion. While professionally trained as an engineer, he chose to pursue his lifelong love for cinema, transforming his technical knowledge into a creative force that has helped him excel in almost every department of filmmaking. Unlike many filmmakers who specialize in a single aspect of cinema, Jay has built a reputation as a complete filmmaker—working as a writer, director, editor, music composer, lyricist, actor, and technician. His ability to oversee every stage of production allows him to create films that remain true to his artistic vision from concept to completion. Independent filmmaking is often a challenging path. Limited budgets, resource constraints, and the absence of large production houses require extraordinary perseverance and innovation. Jay has embraced these challenges with confidence, proving that compelling storytelling and creative integrity can leave a lasting impact regardless of financial limitations. His films demonstrate that sincerity, imagination, and emotional authenticity remain the strongest ingredients of memorable cinema. One of the defining characteristics of Jay's work is his ability to tell stories rooted in everyday human experiences. His films explore relationships, personal struggles, emotional conflicts, and social issues with honesty and sensitivity. Rather than relying on spectacle, his storytelling draws audiences into the emotional lives of his characters, encouraging reflection and empathy. This distinctive narrative style has become a hallmark of his filmmaking and has earned appreciation from critics, festival juries, and audiences alike. Goa, known worldwide for its scenic beauty and vibrant cultural traditions, serves as an important source of inspiration in Jay's work. Through his films, he presents the state's heritage, values, and people with authenticity and respect. His stories go beyond picturesque landscapes, highlighting the emotions, traditions, and lived experiences that shape Goan society. By doing so, he contributes to preserving regional narratives while making them accessible to wider audiences. Jay's dedication to quality storytelling has brought his films to several prestigious platforms. His acclaimed short film Prarabdha achieved a significant milestone by being officially screened at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). This recognition marked an important chapter in his career, introducing his work to a distinguished audience of filmmakers, critics, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. The selection reflected the artistic merit of the film and demonstrated Jay's ability to create stories that resonate beyond regional boundaries. His award-winning film Manas further strengthened his reputation by receiving numerous national and international honours. The film showcased his growing maturity as a filmmaker and highlighted his ability to balance powerful storytelling with thoughtful direction. Through carefully crafted characters and emotionally engaging narratives, Jay demonstrated that independent cinema can be both artistically profound and universally relatable. Continuing this remarkable journey, Jay's latest short film, Medium Piece, has also attracted international appreciation. The film received an Honorable Mention at the Asian Independent Film Festival, adding another prestigious achievement to his growing list of accolades. The recognition reflects his continuous artistic evolution and his determination to explore fresh ideas while maintaining the emotional authenticity that defines his work. The honours received by Jay Amonkar are not merely personal achievements but also milestones for the independent filmmaking community in Goa. Every recognition earned by his films contributes to greater visibility for regional talent and demonstrates that compelling stories from smaller creative communities can achieve international appreciation. His success serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers who dream of telling meaningful stories through cinema. Receiving the Tagore International Award 2026 is another landmark achievement in Jay Amonkar's remarkable journey. Named in honour of one of India's greatest cultural icons, the award recognizes individuals whose work enriches the fields of arts, literature, culture, and creative expression. For Jay, the honour acknowledges years of dedication, experimentation, and artistic excellence while celebrating his growing influence in contemporary independent filmmaking. For a filmmaker who has consistently chosen creativity over convention, authenticity over imitation, and passion over comfort, this recognition stands as a fitting tribute to his vision. It also marks the beginning of a new chapter in a career that continues to inspire audiences and emerging filmmakers alike.

Dr. Rishikesh Tewari of West Bengal has been honoured with the prestigious Rashtra Ratna Sahitya Puraskar in recognition of his outstanding contributions to English Literature, particularly in the fields of Literary History, Literary Criticism, and Applied Linguistics. This distinguished honour celebrates his unwavering commitment to academic excellence, literary scholarship, and the advancement of knowledge through research, teaching, and intellectual inquiry. Over the years, Dr. Tewari has established himself as a respected scholar whose work has significantly enriched the understanding of English literary traditions while encouraging critical engagement with texts across historical and cultural contexts. His scholarship in literary history has provided valuable insights into the evolution of English literature from its early foundations to contemporary writings, helping students and researchers appreciate the ways in which literature reflects the social, political, philosophical, and cultural transformations of different eras. By examining literary movements, influential authors, and the changing nature of literary expression, he has contributed to preserving the rich heritage of English literature while making it more accessible to new generations of readers and scholars. Equally noteworthy are Dr. Tewari’s contributions to literary criticism, where his analytical approach has demonstrated how literature can be interpreted through multiple critical perspectives, offering deeper understanding of themes, symbolism, narrative techniques, aesthetics, and ideological frameworks. His critical writings encourage readers to move beyond surface interpretations and engage with literary works as dynamic reflections of human experiences, ethical dilemmas, and cultural realities. His ability to combine theoretical understanding with practical textual analysis has earned him admiration among students, fellow academicians, and literary enthusiasts alike. In the field of Applied Linguistics, Dr. Tewari has further strengthened his reputation as a scholar dedicated to bridging linguistic theory with practical applications in education and communication. His work highlights the significance of language as a powerful medium for learning, cultural exchange, and literary expression, emphasizing innovative approaches to language teaching and the development of effective communication skills. Through his research, he has demonstrated how language and literature complement one another, enriching both educational practices and intellectual discourse. Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Tewari has been deeply committed to nurturing young minds through teaching and mentorship. His classrooms have consistently encouraged curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and meaningful discussion, inspiring countless students to pursue higher studies and research in English literature. His dedication to education reflects his belief that literature is not merely an academic discipline but a means of understanding humanity, promoting empathy, and fostering cultural awareness. Throughout his career, he has inspired learners to appreciate the enduring relevance of literature in addressing contemporary issues while preserving the wisdom and artistic achievements of the past. Dr. Tewari’s scholarly journey exemplifies the values of intellectual integrity, lifelong learning, and academic excellence. His research has contributed to the broader understanding of literary traditions while encouraging interdisciplinary approaches that connect literature with history, linguistics, culture, and society. His work serves as an inspiration to emerging scholars who aspire to contribute meaningfully to the world of literary studies through rigorous research and thoughtful analysis. The conferment of the Rashtra Ratna Sahitya Puraskar upon Dr. Rishikesh Tewari is a fitting recognition of his exceptional achievements and his lasting impact on English literary scholarship. It acknowledges not only his personal accomplishments but also the importance of literary research and education in preserving cultural heritage and promoting intellectual growth. His contributions continue to inspire students, educators, and researchers across India, reinforcing the enduring significance of literature in shaping informed, compassionate, and culturally aware societies. This prestigious honour celebrates a scholar whose dedication to Literary History, Literary Criticism, and Applied Linguistics has strengthened the academic landscape of English literature and whose work will continue to influence future generations. Dr. Rishikesh Tewari’s recognition with the Rashtra Ratna Sahitya Puraskar stands as a proud moment for West Bengal and the Indian literary community, honouring a lifetime devoted to scholarship, education, and the transformative power of literature.

The Veyil Foundation proudly confers the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 upon G. Maanvi in recognition of her exceptional contribution to Performance Arts – Dance. The prestigious honour acknowledges her unwavering dedication to the classical Indian dance tradition of Kuchipudi, celebrating her remarkable artistic achievements and her commitment to preserving and promoting one of India's most cherished cultural treasures. The Rabindra Ratna Puraskar is presented to individuals whose work has made a lasting impact in the fields of literature, arts, culture, education, and social development. The award honours excellence, creativity, and dedication while recognizing those who inspire society through their contributions. By selecting G. Maanvi for the 2026 honour in the category of Performance Arts – Dance, the Veyil Foundation pays tribute to an artist whose passion, discipline, and devotion have elevated the beauty and significance of classical dance. Kuchipudi is among India's eight recognized classical dance forms and is celebrated for its graceful movements, expressive storytelling, intricate rhythmic patterns, and theatrical presentation. Originating from Andhra Pradesh, the dance form seamlessly combines music, drama, rhythm, and spirituality, demanding years of disciplined training and an in-depth understanding of tradition. Every performance requires not only technical excellence but also emotional sensitivity, allowing the dancer to breathe life into mythology, literature, and devotional themes through movement and expression. G. Maanvi has embraced this demanding art form with extraordinary dedication. Her artistic journey reflects years of perseverance, continuous learning, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Through disciplined practice and sincere devotion to the traditions of Kuchipudi, she has developed a distinctive style that balances technical precision with emotional depth. Her performances are admired for their elegance, refined footwork, expressive abhinaya, graceful body language, and commanding stage presence. Each time G. Maanvi steps onto the stage, she transforms classical compositions into living experiences. Her performances capture the attention of audiences through their artistic authenticity and emotional richness. Whether portraying episodes from Indian epics, devotional themes, or traditional dance compositions, she communicates each story with remarkable clarity, enabling audiences of all ages to appreciate the timeless beauty of classical Indian dance. One of the defining qualities of G. Maanvi's artistry is her ability to preserve the purity of the Kuchipudi tradition while presenting it with freshness and vitality. She understands that classical dance is not merely a sequence of movements but a complete language of expression that combines rhythm, emotion, literature, music, and spirituality. Her performances reflect respect for centuries-old traditions while demonstrating the living relevance of classical art in the modern world. The path of a classical dancer is one of constant dedication. Behind every successful performance lie countless hours of rigorous practice, physical discipline, mental focus, and artistic refinement. G. Maanvi's achievements stand as a testament to this relentless pursuit of perfection. Her commitment to continuous improvement has earned admiration from audiences, fellow artists, cultural organizations, and lovers of Indian classical arts. Beyond her performances, G. Maanvi serves as an inspiration to aspiring dancers who dream of pursuing classical arts with sincerity and purpose. Her journey illustrates that success in traditional performing arts is built through patience, perseverance, humility, and unwavering respect for one's cultural heritage. By dedicating herself to Kuchipudi, she contributes to preserving an artistic legacy that has been passed down through generations. In today's rapidly changing cultural landscape, artists like G. Maanvi play a vital role in ensuring that India's classical traditions continue to flourish. As contemporary entertainment evolves, preserving classical dance requires passionate individuals who understand its historical, artistic, and spiritual significance. Through every performance, she strengthens the connection between the past and the present, allowing audiences to experience the enduring beauty of India's cultural heritage. The Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 recognizes not only G. Maanvi's excellence as a performer but also her contribution to safeguarding India's invaluable artistic traditions. Her dedication has helped promote appreciation for Kuchipudi among diverse audiences while inspiring younger generations to embrace the richness of Indian classical dance. Such contributions ensure that this magnificent art form continues to thrive and remain relevant in the years to come. The Veyil Foundation believes that artists are the custodians of civilization, preserving stories, traditions, and values through creative expression. G. Maanvi exemplifies this role through her sincere commitment to Kuchipudi. Her performances celebrate India's cultural identity while demonstrating the universal language of dance that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Receiving the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar marks a significant milestone in G. Maanvi's artistic journey. It is both a recognition of her achievements and an encouragement to continue pursuing excellence in the field of classical dance. The honour reflects years of dedication, determination, and artistic integrity that have shaped her career and earned her a distinguished place among contemporary performers of Kuchipudi. The Veyil Foundation extends its heartfelt congratulations to G. Maanvi on receiving the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 for Performance Arts – Dance. Her accomplishments stand as a shining example of how talent, discipline, and devotion can preserve the richness of India's classical traditions while inspiring future generations of artists. As she continues her journey of artistic excellence, G. Maanvi remains a proud ambassador of Kuchipudi, carrying forward the timeless legacy of Indian classical dance with grace, dignity, and unwavering passion.

Dr. Ashok Sharma, an internationally acclaimed astrologer and an eminent scholar in Vanspati Tantra, has been honoured with the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the fields of astrology, traditional spiritual sciences, and the preservation of India's ancient wisdom. Hailing from Petlawad, Ujjain, Dr. Sharma has dedicated his life to the study, practice, and promotion of Vedic astrology, earning widespread respect for his scholarly excellence and spiritual guidance. With decades of experience, Dr. Ashok Sharma has established himself as a trusted authority in astrology, combining classical knowledge with practical insight to help individuals navigate life's challenges. His profound understanding of planetary influences, spiritual traditions, and ancient Indian scriptures has enabled him to provide meaningful guidance while preserving the authenticity of time-honoured astrological practices. His work reflects a deep commitment to maintaining the integrity of India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. A distinguished scholar in Vanspati Tantra, Dr. Sharma has devoted considerable effort to researching and promoting this specialized branch of traditional knowledge. His expertise in this field has contributed to greater awareness and appreciation of ancient Indian spiritual sciences, inspiring students, researchers, and practitioners to explore the profound wisdom preserved through generations. A major milestone in his academic journey came in 2008 when he was awarded the prestigious Doctor of Astrology degree from Sri Lanka. This international academic recognition further strengthened his standing as a respected scholar and practitioner, opening new avenues for research, education, and global engagement in the field of astrology. Throughout his career, he has continued to share his knowledge through consultations, scholarly discussions, and public engagement, earning admiration from people across India and abroad. Dr. Ashok Sharma's dedication extends beyond professional practice. He has consistently worked to preserve and promote the values of traditional Indian knowledge systems while encouraging a scientific and disciplined approach to the study of astrology. His lifelong commitment to learning, teaching, and spiritual service has made him a respected figure among scholars and followers of Vedic sciences. The Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 is presented to individuals whose achievements reflect excellence, dedication, and a lasting contribution to society. Dr. Ashok Sharma embodies these ideals through his unwavering pursuit of knowledge and his tireless efforts to safeguard and promote the timeless traditions of astrology and spiritual wisdom. The conferment of this prestigious honour celebrates not only Dr. Sharma's professional accomplishments but also his enduring contribution to preserving India's intellectual and cultural legacy. His inspiring journey stands as a testament to the power of knowledge, discipline, and service, and he continues to motivate future generations to uphold and advance the nation's rich heritage of spiritual and scholarly excellence.

The Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority has come into existence today, replacing the Madrasa Board in the state. With this, all 456 madrasas in Uttarakhand will now be monitored by both the State Government and the Central Government. The Uttarakhand Government has taken this significant step to make the education system more modern, transparent and inclusive. State Minister for Social Welfare and Minority Welfare, Khajan Das, said that all recognised madrasas currently operating in the state will now come under the Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority. They will also be affiliated with the Uttarakhand Board of School Education to ensure that students receive education in line with national education standards. He said that the new system will not be limited to institutions of the Muslim community alone but will also apply equally to educational institutions run by the Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Christian and Parsi minority communities. All madrasas have been allotted UDISE (Unified District Information System for Education) numbers. Through this system, the academic and administrative details of every madrasa will be uploaded to the Ministry of Education’s digital portal. Only institutions complying with the prescribed norms will be eligible to avail benefits under various Central Government schemes. The Authority has also made recognition mandatory for all madrasas. Of the total, 400 madrasas running classes from I to VIII will have to obtain affiliation from the office of the District Chief Education Officer, while 56 madrasas imparting education up to Class XII will be affiliated with the Uttarakhand Board of School Education, Ramnagar. The entire process will be conducted online. So far, 137 madrasas have applied for recognition through the Authority’s portal. The Government says the primary objective of the new Authority is to integrate these institutions into the mainstream by promoting modern and quality education.

As the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) [VB-G RAM G] Act, 2025 came into force today, Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan termed the occasion a historic milestone. In a social media post, Mr Chouhan said the Act marks a new chapter in ensuring dignity, self-respect, and secure livelihoods for millions of rural workers. He said the Act provides rural families with a statutory right to 125 days of employment. Expressing confidence in the initiative, Mr Chouhan said it will create new livelihood opportunities in villages, accelerate the creation of sustainable assets, empower women, and give fresh momentum to the vision of a self-reliant rural India.

Tanzania’s President Hussein Ali Mwinyi commended India’s vital role in Zanzibar’s development during his meeting with the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, Bishwadip Dey, yesterday. President Mwinyi received High Commissioner Dey at the State House in Zanzibar and commended India’s vital role in Zanzibar’s development, particularly in investments, vocational training, and ICT innovation through IIT Madras Zanzibar. During this, the Indian High Commissioner extended an official invitation from India’s Vice President, C. Р. Radhakrishnan, for President Mwinyi to visit India in July, including a visit to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. The High Commissioner also participated in an Orientation Session for the ICCR Scholarship awardees from Zanzibar for the academic year 2026-27, organised by the consulate. He provided an overview of the India-Tanzania relationship and of educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries, including ICCR scholarships.

Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish, has said New Delhi supports a negotiated two-State solution leading to the establishment of a sovereign Palestine living within secure and recognized borders, side by side with Israel in peace and security. He highlighted that India has provided over 175 million US dollars in assistance to the Palestinian people. While delivering India’s statement at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Pledging Conference, Ambassador Harish noted that the situation in Gaza is fragile and India’s efforts are directed at addressing the humanitarian needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people. He noted that India had sent 150 tonnes of aid in the last three years alone. Earlier yesterday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with the Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. Mr. Modi reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the West Asia region and for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce.

The Veyil Foundation is proud to announce that Nightina, popularly known by her literary name Lovee Dewas, from Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has been selected as the recipient of the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 in the field of Literature. This prestigious recognition celebrates her exceptional contribution to contemporary poetry and her inspiring literary voice that empowers women through themes of hope, resilience, and self-discovery. Lovee Dewas has earned admiration for her ability to transform life's struggles into deeply moving poetry that touches readers across generations and cultures. Her acclaimed poetry collection, "Nightina's Rainbow," is a heartfelt exploration of the human spirit, guiding readers from the silence of darkness toward the promise of light. Rich with emotion and imagination, the collection reflects the strength found in vulnerability and the beauty that emerges through perseverance. The poems in Nightina's Rainbow create a bridge between the quiet of night and the radiance of dawn, symbolising the journey from pain to healing. Through graceful language and evocative imagery, she explores universal themes of courage, love, hope, inner strength, and renewal. Every poem serves as a reminder that even in life's most difficult moments, there is always the possibility of light, growth, and transformation. Her writing particularly resonates with women, capturing the emotions, challenges, dreams, and resilience that define their experiences. With compassion and authenticity, she gives voice to those who have remained unheard, inspiring readers not only in India but across the world. Her verses celebrate the enduring spirit of womanhood while encouraging confidence, self-belief, and emotional healing. The Veyil Foundation has conferred the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 upon Lovee Dewas in recognition of her remarkable literary achievement and her unwavering commitment to using poetry as a medium for inspiration and empowerment. Her work stands as a beacon of hope, reminding readers that strength often blossoms in adversity and that words possess the power to heal, unite, and transform lives. This honour acknowledges not only her artistic excellence but also her meaningful contribution to literature as a force for social and emotional upliftment. Through her poetry, Lovee Dewas continues to inspire countless readers, proving that literature remains one of humanity's most powerful expressions of compassion, courage, and hope.