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CM Yogi Adityanath Completes Self-Enumeration for India's First Digital Census

CM Yogi Adityanath Completes Self-Enumeration for India's First Digital Census

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has completed the self-enumeration process for the upcoming Census 2027, marking a significant step in India's first fully digital census. During his visit to Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister filled out the digital form at his residence in the Gorakhnath Temple complex. He urged citizens to participate in the self-enumeration process, which is open until May 21. The digital census aims to collect accurate data to inform development policies and welfare schemes under the theme 'Our Census, Our Development.' The initiative is designed to ensure inclusive and comprehensive development by making every citizen a stakeholder in the nation's progress. The use of digital tools is expected to enhance the transparency, effectiveness, and speed of the census process.
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India Implements New Labor Reforms to Protect Migrant Workers

India Implements New Labor Reforms to Protect Migrant Workers

India has introduced significant labor reforms aimed at improving the conditions for inter-state migrant workers. The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Central) Rules, 2026, were notified on May 8, 2026, marking a pivotal shift in labor policy. These rules operationalize the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, which had been pending full implementation. The reforms redefine 'inter-state migrant workers' to include those who move independently, without contractors, and earn up to Rs 18,000 per month. Key changes include mandatory appointment letters, a digital database for tracking workers, and portability of ration cards under the One Nation One Ration Card scheme. The reforms aim to address issues highlighted by the COVID-19 migration crisis, such as lack of documentation and access to benefits.
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BRICS Ministers Unable to Agree on Middle East Conflict Statement

BRICS Ministers Unable to Agree on Middle East Conflict Statement

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi ended without a joint statement due to differing views on the Middle East conflict. The meeting, which included representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members like Iran and the UAE, highlighted divisions within the bloc. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for condemnation of US and Israeli actions, while the UAE opposed such language. The lack of consensus reflects the challenges BRICS faces in maintaining unity while expanding its influence.
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Vice President Radhakrishnan Highlights Sikkim's Organic Character at Statehood Day Event

Vice President Radhakrishnan Highlights Sikkim's Organic Character at Statehood Day Event

Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, praised the state of Sikkim during its 51st Statehood Day celebrations, emphasizing its unique identity as a model of environmental sustainability and social harmony. Speaking at the event in Gangtok, he commended the people of Sikkim for their simplicity, discipline, and values, describing the state as 'organic not only by agriculture but also by character.' Despite challenging weather conditions that necessitated travel by road, the Vice President observed the everyday life of Sikkim's residents, noting their sober, disciplined, and respectful nature. The event was attended by key state leaders, including Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Governor Om Prakash Mathur, who welcomed the Vice President. The celebration highlighted Sikkim's progress in governance, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation since its integration into the Indian Union.
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Dust storms and lightning kill at least 96 people in northern India

Dust storms and lightning kill at least 96 people in northern India

Dust storms, heavy rain, and lightning have damaged homes and killed at least 96 people in northern India
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Russia Establishes Partnership with Taliban, Aiming for Regional Security

Russia Establishes Partnership with Taliban, Aiming for Regional Security

Russia has announced the establishment of a 'full-fledged partnership' with Afghanistan's ruling Taliban, as reported by a senior Russian security official. This development follows Russia's formal recognition of the Taliban government, which took power in August 2021 after the U.S.-led forces withdrew from Afghanistan. Russian official Sergei Shoigu emphasized the importance of cooperation with Kabul for regional security and development. The partnership includes dialogue on security, trade, culture, and humanitarian support. This announcement was made during a meeting with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which includes countries like China, India, and Pakistan. The Taliban, previously banned by Russia as a terrorist group, had this ban lifted in April 2025.
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President Trump and Xi Jinping Discuss Strait of Hormuz Reopening Amid Global Energy Concerns

President Trump and Xi Jinping Discuss Strait of Hormuz Reopening Amid Global Energy Concerns

President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have engaged in discussions regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas supply. The strait, which is only 33 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, is a vital passage for approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and LNG shipments. The talks between the two leaders highlight the intersection of energy security, geopolitical rivalry, and regional conflicts. Despite the discussions, no formal agreement or binding protocol was established. The situation remains complex, with Iran asserting operational sovereignty over vessel movement, independent of U.S. naval coordination. This has led to a dual framework for navigation, complicating the geopolitical landscape.
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BRICS ministers fail to issue a joint statement over differences on conflict in the Middle East

BRICS ministers fail to issue a joint statement over differences on conflict in the Middle East

A two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers in New Delhi has ended without a joint statement due to differing views on the Middle East
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Greece-Israel Relations Strengthen with Major Infrastructure Projects

Greece-Israel Relations Strengthen with Major Infrastructure Projects

Israel's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sharren Haskel, has highlighted the strengthening of Greece-Israel relations during a diplomatic mission to Athens. The visit focused on advancing strategic partnerships in infrastructure, energy, and security. Key projects include the Great Sea Interconnector, a subsea electricity cable linking Israel, Cyprus, and Greece to Europe, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. These initiatives aim to enhance regional connectivity and energy security, positioning Israel as a central energy hub. Haskel also addressed the rise of antisemitism in Europe, noting Greece's efforts to combat it.
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Russia Establishes Partnership with Taliban, Emphasizing Regional Security and Development

Russia Establishes Partnership with Taliban, Emphasizing Regional Security and Development

Russia has announced the establishment of a 'full-fledged partnership' with the Taliban government in Afghanistan. This development follows Russia's formal recognition of the Taliban regime, which took power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of US-led forces. Russian official Sergei Shoigu emphasized the importance of cooperation with Kabul for regional security and development. The partnership includes areas such as security, trade, culture, and humanitarian support. This announcement was made during a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which includes countries like China, India, and Pakistan. Russia had previously outlawed the Taliban as a terrorist organization in 2003, but lifted the ban in April 2025.
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Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Self-Reliance and Jointness for Future-Ready Defense Forces

Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Self-Reliance and Jointness for Future-Ready Defense Forces

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has called for accelerated research and development in defense to ensure India’s military remains future-ready. Speaking at the Kalam & Kavach 3.0 strategic dialogue, Singh highlighted the importance of self-reliance and jointness among defense forces, labs, and industries. He stressed that a nation’s strength increasingly depends on its ability to quickly transition from ideas to operational deployment. Singh also noted the strategic necessity of self-reliance, warning against excessive dependence on foreign defense capabilities. The event, attended by international delegates, also saw discussions on India’s growing defense exports and production, with ambitious targets set for the coming years.