Leader J.P. Nadda urged opposition unity for electoral roll revision, highlighting West Bengal's significant voter increase. He questioned the Election Commission's role in detecting and deporting potential illegal immigrants, stressing national interest over political divides. Opposition MPs countered, accusing the government of using the process for division and distraction.
The central government has extended the term of the commission investigating the Manipur ethnic violence until May 20, 2026. This marks the fifth extension for the commission, which was initially formed in June 2023 to probe the causes and extent of the unrest that began on May 3, 2023.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Ethiopia's highest civilian honour, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, during his first bilateral visit. The two nations agreed to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on cooperation in economy, innovation, technology, defence, and health.
Gujarat has banned the sale and distribution of rolling papers and pre-rolled cones, commonly known as 'Gogo paper'. The state home department cited health risks and concerns that these products are being used by youth to smoke narcotic substances. The ban, effective immediately, targets harmful substances found in the papers, aiming to curb addiction among young people.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received rare personal courtesies on his Jordan and Ethiopia visits, with top leaders personally escorting and driving him. These gestures highlight the warmth and trust in India's ties with key Global South partners, reflecting strong historical and people-to-people connections.
Opposition members in Rajya Sabha demanded reforms in the anti-defection law and electoral processes, citing defections and voter list issues that undermine the people's mandate. The government defended the special intensive revision of electoral rolls as constitutionally valid. Concerns were also raised about political party funding and the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal.
Over 7.7 lakh households are now receiving zero electricity bills thanks to rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar scheme. The government has provided significant subsidy support and sanctioned numerous loan applications. Additionally, farmers are earning substantial income by leasing land for solar projects under the PM-KUSUM scheme.
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly condemned the terror attack at Sydney's Hanukkah celebration, emphasizing India and Israel's «zero tolerance» policy towards terrorism. Speaking alongside Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa'ar, Jaishankar conveyed deep condolences for the lives lost and injured.
The Trump administration's 2025 National Security Strategy redefines global power dynamics, placing India at a critical juncture. The document emphasizes unilateral action and self-interest, urging India to contribute more to Indo-Pacific security through initiatives like the Quad, signaling a shift towards transactional alliances.
Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan claimed India was «completely defeated» on the first day of Operation Sindoor, alleging Indian aircraft were shot down and the Air Force grounded. The BJP criticized his remarks, accusing the Congress of disrespecting the armed forces and undermining national security.
Millions of rural Indian women are transforming their lives and communities by becoming 'Lakhpati Didis,' surpassing Rs 1 lakh in annual household income through self-help groups. This initiative, backed by government schemes, fosters financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community influence, making these women a significant political constituency. Their economic empowerment is reshaping rural India's landscape.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to Bangladesh, stating India will retaliate if Bangladeshi politicians continue to make remarks about the northeastern region. His comments followed a statement by a Bangladeshi leader suggesting isolation of India's northeast and support for separatists if India destabilizes Bangladesh.
Opposition MPs protested in Lok Sabha as the government tabled the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, aiming to replace MGNREGA. Concerns were raised over removing Mahatma Gandhi's name and weakening the legal right to employment, with demands for committee scrutiny.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accused the Centre of attempting to dismantle the MGNREGA by renaming it to G RAM G. She warned that proposed changes, including shifting financial burden to states and centralizing decision-making, could lead to the scheme's collapse and eventual scrapping, despite claims of expanding employment days.
West Bengal authorities have issued show-cause notices to top police officials, including the DGP and Bidhannagar CP, following chaos during the Lionel Messi GOAT Tour event. Lapses in crowd control, security, and coordination led to disorder, vandalism, and the early termination of the program, prompting administrative action and an inquiry.
West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas has reportedly offered to resign following allegations of mismanagement and security lapses at the Lionel Messi event in Kolkata. The move comes after angry spectators clashed with police, causing significant damage to stadium property. A Trinamool Congress leader shared a purported resignation letter, though its authenticity is being questioned.
Delhi's Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that reducing air pollution within 9-10 months is unrealistic, apologizing for the current smog. He blamed the previous AAP government for the pollution crisis, claiming his administration is working to fix it.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor explained his absence from the party's «Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod» rally, citing a prior international commitment made six months ago. He assured that there were no issues from his side, despite recently skipping other party meetings and praising Prime Minister Modi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Jordan's King Abdullah II in Amman, marking a significant bilateral visit to strengthen ties and discuss regional stability, particularly concerning Gaza. The leaders celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations and explored enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including counter-terrorism efforts and economic partnerships.