Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has registered as a candidate in the 2025 election for mayor of Davao, the southern city stronghold that he led for some 20 years before becoming president. Duterte, 79, filed his papers on Monday with the Election Commission in Davao on the southern island of Mindanao. His son, Sebastian Duterte, who is the current mayor, will be his running mate in the elections, officials said. Davao is a family stronghold for Duterte, who faces local and international investigations over the drug war in which thousands of people were killed while he was president. Duterte’s decision to run for mayor follows a bitter, public falling out with the family of his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr . “I want to serve you,” Duterte, the father of Vice President Sara Duterte, told reporters after submitting his candidacy documents. He said he planned to make Davao “better than yesterday”. The former president’s decision to contest the Davao election is seen as a move to galvanise support for Sara Duterte, who is widely expected to run for president in 2028. Marcos Jr will not be eligible to run because presidents are restricted to serving a single term, but his cousin, Martin Romualdez, who is currently the speaker of the House of Representatives, is expected to contest. The 2025 midterm vote is crucial for both the Duterte and Marcos families as they seek to shore up their support ahead of the 2028 campaign. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating allegations of human rights abuses committed during Duterte’s drug war, which has continued under Marcos. The House of Representatives is also conducting committee hearings on the drug war killings. More than 6,000 people were killed in a police-enforced crackdown on illegal drugs under Duterte, according to official data released by the Philippines. ICC prosecutors estimate the death toll at between 12,000 and 30,000. Duterte has denied condoning extrajudicial killings of drug suspects, although he openly threatened suspects with death and ordered police to shoot suspects who dangerously resisted arrest. Sara Duterte, who resigned from her posts of education secretary and head of an anti-insurgency body in July, is also facing impeachment threats in the House of Representatives.

The Veyil Foundation has awarded the prestigious Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2024 to Dr. Rishi Sharma, a distinguished academic from Uttar Pradesh. This honor highlights his remarkable contributions to education, especially in the areas of curriculum development and editing. Dr. Sharma's efforts have made a significant difference in educational practices, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to improving the quality of learning for students. His work is a true reflection of his passion for education and his desire to create enriching experiences for learners. Dr. Rishi Sharma is not just an academic; he is a versatile professional who shines as a subject matter expert, writer, editor, and educator. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Hindi Honors from the esteemed Hansraj Mahavidyalaya, which is part of Delhi University, and later pursued a Master's degree in Hindi Journalism and Mass Communication from Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Mass Communication in Bhopal. His research delved into the relationship between mass media and school education, showcasing his dedication to enhancing educational practices through a deeper understanding of how media influences learning. With over 17 years of rich experience in the educational field, Dr. Rishi Sharma has become a prominent figure in school education. He actively participates in crucial areas such as curriculum development, conceptualization, and editing, making him a key player in shaping educational standards. His extensive background and expertise not only highlight his professional journey but also underscore his role in fostering innovative educational methodologies that benefit students and educators alike. Dr. Rishi Sharma has emerged as a significant presence in the realm of school education. His involvement spans essential aspects like curriculum design, idea generation, and content editing, positioning him as an influential contributor to the evolution of educational benchmarks. His hands-on approach in these areas not only showcases his dedication but also highlights his commitment to enhancing the quality of education. By engaging in the nitty-gritty of curriculum development, he ensures that the educational materials are not only relevant but also effective in meeting the needs of students and teachers alike. Through his efforts, Dr. Sharma is helping to redefine what quality education looks like. His work in conceptualizing new ideas and refining existing content plays a vital role in setting higher standards for schools, ultimately benefiting the entire educational community.

S.K. Vasantha Kumari, a representative of the Rise & Shine Children’s Trust based in Tamil Nadu, has been awarded the Mahatma Gandhi Desh Seva Puraskar 2024, an esteemed honor presented by the Veyil Foundation. This award acknowledges her remarkable contributions and achievements in social work, with a particular focus on child welfare and the empowerment of women. Her unwavering commitment to these vital issues has profoundly influenced the lives of numerous individuals and communities, showcasing her dedication to fostering positive change. The Mahatma Gandhi Desh Seva Puraskar serves as a recognition of Vasantha Kumari's steadfast dedication to social justice and her relentless advocacy for the rights and welfare of children and women. Through her leadership at the Rise & Shine Children’s Trust, she has spearheaded various initiatives designed to enhance the living conditions of marginalized groups, reflecting a deep understanding of the obstacles they encounter. Her innovative strategies and empathetic guidance have not only transformed lives but have also inspired many others to participate in this essential cause. The receipt of this prestigious award not only highlights Vasantha Kumari's personal accomplishments but also brings attention to the pressing issues related to child care and women's empowerment within society. It emphasizes the necessity of collective efforts and the significant impact that dedicated individuals can have in promoting social change. As she continues her mission, this recognition is likely to encourage others to become involved in similar initiatives, thereby cultivating a supportive community committed to advocacy and assistance for those in need.  S.K. Vasantha Kumari stands out as a dedicated social worker whose exemplary contributions have established her as a model citizen. Her unwavering commitment to social causes not only serves as a beacon of inspiration for the youth but also highlights the potential for positive change within the community. Through her tireless efforts, she has garnered recognition at the national level, thereby bringing honor and pride to the state of Tamil Nadu. As a prominent figure in social work, S.K. Vasantha Kumari has made significant strides in various initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities. Her work exemplifies the qualities of leadership and compassion, motivating young individuals to engage in social service and community development. The accolades she has received on a national scale reflect her dedication and the impactful nature of her endeavors, further solidifying her status as a role model. The achievements of S.K. Vasantha Kumari resonate beyond her immediate contributions, as they serve to elevate the profile of Tamil Nadu on a broader platform. By winning prestigious awards, she not only showcases her personal commitment to social welfare but also inspires a collective sense of responsibility among her peers and the younger generation. Her legacy is one of empowerment and pride, encouraging others to follow in her footsteps and contribute to the betterment of society.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will travel to Islamabad to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit on 15th October and 16th October. External Affairs Ministry’s Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed this during a media briefing in Delhi yesterday. On Zakir Naik’s visit to Pakistan, Mr Jaiswal said India is not surprised that a fugitive from Indian justice has received a high level welcome in Pakistan. He termed it as disappointing and condemnable.

The Government today released the revised operational guidelines and training manual for all medical officers on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Health and Family Welfare Secretary Apurva Chandra said that these guidelines and training modules are crucial for identifying individuals with NAFLD. Mr. Chandra added that these revised guidelines and training modules will provide a framework for all healthcare workers and help develop the capacity to identify non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. He said, the government will constitute a committee to address NAFLD at the United Nations General Assembly next year.   Director and Chancellor of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) Dr. S.K. Sarin said that fatty liver disease has always been prevalent in the country, but people were not aware of it earlier. He said that the common causes of fatty liver include being overweight, obesity, genetics, alcohol consumption, and certain medications.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Indian Chess Olympiad Champions at his residence in New Delhi yesterday. Mr. Modi witnessed a game of chess between members of the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad winning team of India during the visit of the Indian men’s and women’s chess teams to his residence. India had struck historic double gold medals in the 2024 Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary.   Chess player R Praggnanandhaa hailed the Prime Minister for his knowledge on many topics, including chess. After the meeting, chess player Tania Sachdev said they feel inspired by Prime Minister Modi and his passion for sports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Digital Public Infrastructure should be a bridge and not a barrier. Speaking at the Summit of the Future at the United Nations General Assembly last night, PM Modi added that for global good, India is ready to share its digital public infrastructure.   PM Modi said that for safe and responsible use of technology, balance regulation is needed. He added that the world wants such global digital governance in which sovereignty and integrity remain intact. Mr. Modi also said that the success of humanity lies in collective strength and not on the battlefield.   Highlighting the threats to peace and security, PM Modi said that, on the one hand, terrorism continues to be a serious threat to global peace and security. On the other hand, cyber, maritime, and space are emerging as new theatres of conflict. On all these issues, PM stressed that global action must match global ambition.   Prime Minister said that when we discuss about the global future, we must accord the highest priority to a human-centric approach. While prioritising sustainable development, we must also ensure human welfare, food, and health security. By lifting 250 million people out of poverty in India, we have demonstrated that sustainable development can be successful. We are ready to share our experiences of our success with the Global South.   Talking about reforms of multilateral institutions, the PM said that global institutions need reforms as reforms are the key to relevance. PM also called the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member in the G20 an important step in this direction. PM Modi also stated that for India, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ is a commitment.

Bikash Kumar Jha is the esteemed founder of Eklavya Classes, a prominent educational institution specializing in the mentorship of students in the fields of Physics and competitive examinations such as JEE and NEET. With over twelve years of dedicated experience in this domain, he has established himself as a leading figure in education, particularly in Haryana. His commitment to academic excellence has been recognized through various accolades, including the Young Faculty Award from Aakash Institute in Gurgaon, which underscores his significant contributions to the educational landscape. Currently, Bikash Kumar Jha is at the helm of Eklavya Classes, where he continues to inspire and guide aspiring students towards achieving their academic goals. His vision extends beyond the classroom, as he is in the process of establishing an NGO named Mannat Foundation. This initiative aims to provide support and resources to economically disadvantaged sections of society, reflecting his deep commitment to social responsibility and community upliftment. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and social service, Bikash Kumar Jha has been honored with the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2024 award by Veyil Foundation. This national NGO is dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals set forth by the United Nations, and Jha's involvement with such an organization highlights his dedication to fostering positive change in society. Through his educational endeavors and philanthropic aspirations, he continues to make a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and communities.

Calling Indian diaspora as Rashtradoots, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, they have always been the country’s strongest brand ambassadors. The Prime Minister said this while addressing a large gathering of the Indian community at an event in Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York tonight.   Lauding the Indian diaspora’s role in India-US bilateral relations, the Prime Minister said, for the world, AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, but he believes AI also represents the American-Indian spirit. He said, the Indian diaspora have connected America to India and India to America and their skill and talent are unmatched. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude towards US President Joe Biden for hosting him in his home, and said it is an honour for 140 crore Indians.   Prime Minister Modi has announced that two new Indian consulates will be opened in the US in Boston and Los Angeles. This expansion reflects India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora across the United States.  India has six consulates in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco and Seattle. The Prime Minister also announced the opening of a Thiruvalluvar Chair of Tamil studies in the University of Houston.   Prime Minister Modi said that India is a country where there are dozens of languages and dialogues, all faiths and religions of the world and yet people are moving forward united. He noted that understanding diversity, living it and incorporating it into daily life is in Indian culture.   At the event, the Prime Minister gave the PUSHP mantra for making India a developed nation. He said, these five pillars together will build a Viksit Bharat. Mr. Modi said, P stands for Progressive Bharat, U stands for Unstoppable Bharat, S stands for Spiritual Bharat, H stands for Humanity First Bharat, and P stands Prosperous Bharat.   Pointing towards the vibrant democracy in the country, the Prime Minister said, recently India has conducted the largest polling exercise in the world. He said his government again came to power for the third time in a row. The Prime Minister stated that his mind and mission are absolutely clear and he will devote his life for good governance and prosperous India. Mr. Modi said that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty in the last 10 years because of the change in ‘soch’ and approach of his government. He said that development is becoming a people’s movement in India and every citizen is a partner to it. He added that India today is a ‘land of opportunities’ and the country now doesn’t wait for opportunities but creates them.   The PM shared that in only two years since its launch, India’s 5G network is now larger than America’s 5G network and India is now working on Made In India 6G network.   The Prime Minister highlighted that compared to the entire world, India’s carbon emission is negligible. He asserted that it is Indian tradition of love for nature that is guiding the country to focus on solar and wind energy areas. He added that India is the first G20 country to achieve its Paris climate goals and assured that his government wants to make every house in India a solar power household. Talking about ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, he urged the audience to plant at least one tree in their lifetime.   Talking about India’s growing diplomatic stature, the PM said that India is a strong voice of the Global South. He added that India is giving focus on not just GDP oriented growth but also human oriented growth. PM Modi added that today when India says something on a global platform, the world listens. Prime Minister asserted that when he said that this is not the era of war, its severity was understood by all.   Earlier, a vibrant cultural program was held at the venue. Performers took to the stage to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage with an array of colorful dance and singing performances. The cultural showcase was organized to celebrate the country’s rich heritage and its global presence during the Prime Minister’s visit, leaving the audience with a vivid impression of the country’s artistic traditions. Over 15,000 people attended the event. The venue reverberated with chants of “Modi Modi” as PM entered the venue and at different points in PM’s speech.

Sri Lanka has a new President as National People’s Power leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake was sworn in as the ninth executive president of the island nation.   Sri Lanka’s recent Presidential election has marked a colossal shift in the political landscape of the island. The leader of Janataka Vimukti Peramuna, Anura Kumara Dissanayake secured the mandate in one of the most competitive elections in the history of the country. The mandate is being seen as a vote against the established political parties which have been in power for many years. His election is indicative of the wish of the people for a thorough transformation after the 2022 economic crisis that brought a large population to the streets to demonstrate against the corrupt policies of the Gotabaya administration.   The old guard which comprised several party names has been wiped out. Even before the elections, Sirisena’s Sri Lanka Freedom Party, as well as the United National Party had lost their space in the political arena. After the 2022 protests, the party of Rajapaksas faced people’s anger which was visible in the recently concluded election as their candidate returned with 2.5 per cent votes.   What lies ahead for Sri Lanka is not very simple. Mr Dissanayake has hinted at holding the general elections without mentioning any timeline. As per experts, the parliamentary elections can be held as early as November this year. Notably, JVP has only three parliamentarians in the 225-member house which would make it difficult to run the government.    On the other hand, as the new government takes shape, people would be looking forward to the fulfilment of various promises made by the new President. Voters, particularly the youth, were drawn to his promises of cleaning up the country’s politics and easing the economic burden on the populace.   During the election campaign, Mr Dissanayake had promised that he would renegotiate the terms of Sri Lanka’s 2.9 billion dollar bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund. What needs to be seen is that if the new government relaxes austerity measures to ease the troubles for the poor it will need to find ways to boost the government revenues. Despite the uncertainty, Dissanayake’s election represents a significant political transformation in Sri Lanka, a nation ready for new leadership after years of disillusionment with the status quo. His ability to navigate economic reform and fulfil his promises will define whether this political shift becomes a long-lasting change or a brief departure from the norm.

Senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi will take the oath as Chief Minister of Delhi today. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Raj Niwas, where Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena will administer the oath to Atishi and her Council of Ministers this afternoon. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Atishi as the Chief Minister of Delhi, from the date of her being sworn in.   The President also accepted the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal as Chief Minister along with his Council of Ministers. President Murmu also cleared the appointment of five new ministers. They are Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Imran Hussain, and Mukesh Ahlawat. Atishi is an MLA from Kalkaji Assembly seat. She will be the third woman Chief Minister of Delhi after Sushma Swaraj from the BJP and Sheila Dikshit from the Congress.

President Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the centenary celebrations of the ICAR- National Institute of Secondary Agriculture(NISA), today at Namkum, in Ranchi. Speaking on the occasion President Murmu said that ICAR- NISA has made an unparallel contribution in achieving Lac production in the country. This institute has not only efficiently carried out research and development work related to agriculture but has also ensured that such research reaches on the ground.         The President said Jharkhand produces 55 percent lac production of the country. The President stressed to promote agriculture based industry to increase income of farmers. President Murmu advised scientist to aware farmers about secondary agriculture. She said ICAR could play effective role in this regard. The President farmers income will be increased after training of processing unit to farmers. President Murmu said use of waste material by farmers will also help them to financial strengthening On this occasion, Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and Minister of Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and Chief Minister Hemant Soren also expressed their views.