Category Archives: News

Fresh Militia Violence in DR Congo’s Ituri Province Leaves At Least 69 Dead

Bunia, May 11 (BNP): At least 69 people were killed in a fresh wave of militia violence in the conflict-hit Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to local authorities and security sources.

The deadly attacks were reportedly carried out by armed fighters linked to the Codeco militia, which claims to represent the Lendu community, in several villages in late April. The violence comes amid escalating tensions between the Hema and Lendu ethnic groups, who have been engaged in a long-running conflict in the gold-rich province bordering Uganda and South Sudan.

Officials said the attacks followed earlier clashes involving the Convention for the Popular Revolution (CRP), an armed group associated with the Hema community, and the Congolese Army near the locality of Pimbo. Security sources stated that the violence claimed the lives of civilians, militia members, and soldiers.

Local civil society leaders described the killings as a “massacre,” with reports of bodies lying unattended for days due to continued militia presence in the affected areas. Humanitarian agencies also reported widespread panic, displacement of civilians, and destruction of property across several villages.

The United Nations mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) strongly condemned the attacks and reiterated its concern over the deteriorating security situation in eastern Congo. Earlier, the UN mission had rescued nearly 200 civilians caught in crossfire during clashes between armed groups and government forces.

Eastern DRC has remained unstable for decades due to the activities of multiple armed groups competing for control over the region’s vast mineral resources, including gold, cobalt, copper, and diamonds. The violence has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis in Ituri province, where nearly one million people are currently displaced, according to UN agencies.

Authorities and humanitarian organisations have appealed for restraint and urged communities to avoid retaliatory violence as efforts continue to restore peace and stability in the region.

Delhi LG Unveils Plan to Transform Dwarka, Rohini and Narela Into Major Investment Hubs !

New Delhi, May 11 (BNP): Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to prepare a comprehensive and time-bound roadmap for transforming Dwarka, Rohini, and Narela into major investment and decentralised economic hubs of the national capital.

According to officials, Dwarka sub-city is being planned as a major destination for domestic and international investments in Information Technology (IT), IT-enabled Services (ITeS), digital infrastructure, and other non-polluting industries. Similar development initiatives are also being proposed for Rohini and Narela under the broader vision of balanced and sustainable urban growth.

During a recent high-level meeting with senior DDA officials, the Lieutenant Governor discussed various developmental initiatives aimed at bringing transformative changes to these sub-cities. He instructed officials to consult all stakeholders and submit a concrete action plan at the earliest.

Sandhu emphasised the need to explore opportunities for attracting IT companies, global capability centres, healthcare institutions, digital infrastructure industries, data centres, semiconductor plants, and warehousing facilities in these areas, in line with the provisions of the Delhi Master Plan.

Officials stated that the improved connectivity through the Urban Extension Road, expanding Metro network, transit-oriented development policy, upcoming educational hubs, and rapid residential growth have made Dwarka, Rohini, and Narela ideal locations for decentralised business and commercial development.

The Lieutenant Governor noted that the proposed transformation would not only attract large-scale investments but also create employment opportunities, boost revenue generation, reduce pressure on central Delhi, and promote sustainable urban development across the capital.

Centre Notifies Viksit Bharat-GRAM G Act; 125 Days of Guaranteed Rural Employment From July 1

New Delhi, May 11 (BNP): The Central Government has officially notified the Viksit Bharat-GRAM G Act, 2025, aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods by guaranteeing 125 days of employment annually to rural households across the country.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan made the announcement on Sunday, stating that the new Act will come into effect from July 1, 2026. The initiative is expected to provide enhanced employment opportunities, economic stability, and social security to millions of rural families.

Addressing the media, Chouhan said the Viksit Bharat-GRAM G Act has been introduced as part of the government’s broader vision for inclusive rural development and empowerment. He stated that the scheme would help improve income generation, reduce migration from villages, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural areas.

The Minister further emphasised that the Act reflects the government’s commitment towards strengthening village economies, improving living standards, and ensuring greater participation of rural communities in the country’s development journey.

Officials said detailed implementation guidelines and operational mechanisms for the scheme will be rolled out ahead of its launch on July 1.

Iran Ready for ‘Negotiations With Dignity’, Says President Amid Rising Regional

Tehran, May 11 (BNP): Iran has expressed its willingness to continue diplomatic engagement and negotiations, provided the talks are conducted with “dignity,” mutual respect, and without pressure or threats, according to Iranian media reports.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran remains open to dialogue and peaceful solutions but will firmly safeguard the country’s national interests and sovereignty. He emphasised that negotiations must be based on fairness, respect, and international principles rather than coercion or unilateral demands.

The remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in the West Asia region and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the United States and regional mediators to reduce conflict and restore stability. Reports indicate that discussions are continuing through indirect diplomatic channels, with Iran recently responding to a US-backed proposal aimed at easing tensions in the region.

Iranian officials have maintained that while the country prefers diplomacy over confrontation, it will not compromise on its rights, security, or strategic interests during any future negotiations.

Tanishq Celebrates ‘Many Indias’ at Rivaah Wedding Lounge with Femina Miss India 2026 Winners

New Delhi, May 11 : Tanishq, India’s leading jewellery brand from the House of Tata, hosted the winners of Femina Miss India 2026 at its Rivaah Wedding Lounge in South Extension, New Delhi, bringing to life a shared premise that many Indians expressed through individuality, culture, and craft.

The newly crowned winners of the 61st Femina Miss India, Sadhvi Satish Sail, Femina Miss India World 2026, Rajnandini Pawar, Femina Miss India 2026  1st Runner Up, and Sree Advaita G, Femina Miss India 2026 –  2nd Runner Up, each represent distinct cultural journeys shaped by different regions, languages, and lived experiences. Their coming together reflects how diverse identities converge on a common platform, much like Tanishq’s Rivaah Wedding Lounge, where varied expressions of Indian bridal traditions coexist in one space.

Designed as a first-of-its-kind, fully curated bridal jewellery destination in the country, the Rivaah Wedding Lounge brings together craftsmanship and culture under one roof. From the intricate polki and kundan jewellery of the North and West, to the delicate filigree of the East and temple jewellery of the South, the space reflects the richness and diversity of Indian bridal culture. At its core is the belief that every bride is one of a kind, not just in her personal style, but in the deeply individual way she carries forward the customs, stories, and communities that shape who she is. Catering to over 10 Indian bridal communities, the Lounge enables brides to discover jewellery that is both aesthetically aligned and culturally meaningful.

Conceptualised with the understanding that wedding celebrations begin with family, the Lounge offers a warm, immersive environment shaped by experience and personal expression. For those seeking a more intimate experience, it features exclusive private luxurious lounges that provide privacy along with personalised assistance, allowing families to make meaningful choices together.

At the heart of the Rivaah Wedding Lounge is a thoughtfully crafted design journey that spans every stage of the wedding celebration. Brides can co-create their wedding looks with the support of in-house bridal designers and expert stylists, curating jewellery that complements their outfits and overall aesthetic across wedding functions. From bespoke creations and heirloom transformations to personalised details such as names, motifs, and symbolic elements, every piece is crafted to reflect the bride’s individual story.

For today’s bride, jewellery is not just about ceremony; it’s about storytelling. Every piece becomes an extension of her style, her journey, and the worlds she moves between. That is where Rivaah Wedding Lounge stands apart. By bringing together evolving trends, cultural nuances, and timeless artistry. It creates jewellery that feels both rooted and refreshingly modern. The result is a collection designed for brides who want to honour tradition, while expressing it entirely in their own way. Wedding shopping has evolved beyond convention, creating a need for experiences that feel more personal, contemporary, and reflective of today’s bride. In just eight months since the launch, Rivah Wedding Lounge has been part of over 1,500 bridal celebrations, creating bespoke trousseaus and bringing each bride’s unique vision to life across every occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Pelki Tshering, Chief Marketing Officer, Tanishq, said,

“Rivaah is built on the belief that there isn’t one way to be an Indian bride. Weddings today bring together multiple cultures, influences, and identities, and jewellery becomes a powerful medium to express that. Our association with Femina Miss India echoes this philosophy of bringing together varied journeys, backgrounds, and perspectives on a unified platform that celebrates individuality. With Rivaah, we translate this into design and experience, enabling every bride to express who she is, in her own way.”

Sharing her experience, Sadhvi Satish Sail, Miss India World 2026, said,

 “Having grown up across cultures and languages, I have always seen identity as layered and evolving. At Rivaah, that idea comes alive, where every jewellery piece feels rooted yet open to interpretation. It allows you to express your own story, not fit into a single idea of a bride.”

Rajnandini Pawar, 1st Runner Up, added,

 ““My journey has always been about carving my own path, and that is exactly what stood out to me at Rivaah. When I spoke to the designers, I found it incredibly thoughtful that they offer in-house styling and design guidance, making the experience feel truly intentional and personal. It reflects the belief that every bride’s journey is unique and her jewellery should be too.”

Sree Advaita G, 2nd Runner Up, shared,

“With roots across different cultures, I have always seen identity as a blend of influences. What I loved about Rivaah is how its designs bring those worlds together so seamlessly balancing tradition with contemporary sensibilities in a way that feels deeply relevant to today’s bride. It feels like a celebration of everything that makes each of us who we are.”

The engagement concluded with curated interactions and content moments, bringing together two platforms that celebrate India’s diversity in complementary ways, one through people, and the other through design, craft, and bridal expression.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Elected NDA Leader, Set to Take Oath as Assam Chief Minister on May 12

Guwahati, May 11 (BNP): Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma was unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP Legislature Party and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Assam on Sunday, paving the way for him to continue as the Chief Minister for a second consecutive term.

Following his election, Sarma met Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and formally staked claim to form the new government in the state.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new Council of Ministers is scheduled to be held on May 12 in Guwahati and is expected to witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior BJP leaders, NDA allies, and several dignitaries.

Sarma’s re-election as NDA leader comes after the alliance secured a strong mandate in the 126-member Assam Assembly. Party leaders and supporters celebrated the announcement, expressing confidence in the continuation of the government’s development agenda in the state.

The BJP leader is expected to continue focusing on infrastructure growth, welfare initiatives, law and order, and economic development during his second term as Chief Minister.

Nation First, Duty Above Comfort – PM Modi Urges Citizens to Conserve Fuel Amid West Asia Crisis !

New Delhi, May 11 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to place “nation first” and adopt responsible practices to minimise the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on India’s economy and energy security.

Emphasising that the Centre is making all possible efforts to protect people from the adverse effects of the conflict, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to use fuel and essential resources judiciously during the challenging period.

Among the key appeals, PM Modi called on people to reduce unnecessary consumption of petrol and diesel, avoid wastage of electricity and fuel, and support measures aimed at maintaining economic stability. He also urged citizens to prioritise national interest over personal comfort and cooperate with the government in managing the situation responsibly.

The Prime Minister highlighted that global tensions in the West Asia region could affect fuel prices, supply chains, and economic conditions worldwide, including India. He assured that the government is continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities and energy supplies.

The appeal comes amid rising international concerns over escalating tensions in the Gulf region and their possible impact on global markets and oil trade.

CM Vijay Signs First Official Files After Taking Oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister!

Chennai, May 11 (BNP): On his very first day as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay on Sunday signed three important files aimed at public welfare and social security. One of the key decisions includes providing 200 units of free electricity to domestic consumers using up to 500 units of electricity on a bimonthly basis.

Mr. Vijay signed the files shortly after the swearing-in ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, in the presence of thousands of fans, supporters, and party workers.

Apart from the free electricity scheme, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister also announced the formation of a special task force to combat the growing drug menace in the state and directed officials to implement stronger measures to ensure women’s safety.

The announcements mark the beginning of Vijay’s administration with a focus on welfare, law enforcement, and public safety.

IndusInd General Insurance’s Mother’s Day campaign, “+1 in Your Motherhood Journey”

MOTHERHOOD JOURNEY’, SUPPORTING EVERY MOMENT FROM HOPE TO HOLDING

Mother’s Day film highlights the unseen beginnings of motherhood and reinforces the brand’s role as a partner from intent to infancy.

Chandigarh, May 10, 2026: IndusInd General Insurance Company Ltd (formerly known as Reliance General Insurance Company Ltd) has launched its Mother’s Day campaign, “+1 in Your Motherhood Journey,” bringing to light a powerful yet often overlooked truth that motherhood begins not at childbirth, but at the moment a woman decides she wants to become a mother.

At a time when fertility journeys are becoming an integral part of modern family-building, the campaign places a sensitive spotlight on the emotional, mental, and physical realities that precede pregnancy. By focusing on this often-unseen phase, IndusInd General Insurance aims to redefine cultural perceptions of motherhood and position itself as a partner through every step of this journey.

At the heart of the campaign is a thoughtfully crafted film set in a fertility clinic. Through quiet, observational storytelling, it follows a woman as she waits, watching life unfold around her as other couples move through different stages of parenthood. Without overt dialogue, the film delicately portrays the emotional complexity of hope, patience, and resilience that defines assisted reproductive journeys, moments that are deeply personal yet rarely spoken about.

Watch the film here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaCpNYwbFzg

The campaign was conceptualised and executed by Socheers, the brand’s creative agency partner, whose storytelling approach brings sensitivity and authenticity to the emotional nuances of modern motherhood journeys.

At a time when an estimated 14.6 million couples in India are navigating fertility challenges, the campaign brings much-needed visibility to assisted reproductive journeys such as IVF. These experiences often remain private due to social stigma, emotional strain, and the significant financial commitment involved.

By bringing these stories into the mainstream with authenticity and empathy, IndusInd General Insurance seeks to normalise conversations around fertility and acknowledge the courage it takes to pursue parenthood through alternative paths.

The campaign will be rolled out across digital platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Recognising that the journey to motherhood is not only emotional but also financially and medically demanding, IndusInd General Insurance offers solutions designed to support customers across this continuum.

The company’s health insurance plans include coverage for infertility treatments such as IVF, IUI, and embryo transfer, along with maternity-related expenses, pre- and post-natal care, and comprehensive medical and vaccination coverage for newborns from day one ensuring support from the first step through to early childhood.

Commenting on the campaign, Tarun Khanna, President & Head – Digital Business, Marketing & Strategy, at IndusInd General Insurance, said that Motherhood is not defined by a single moment, it begins with a choice and evolves through every step that follows. With +1 in Your Motherhood Journey, we aim to recognise and celebrate this entire experience, including the milestones that often go unseen. At IndusInd General Insurance, our endeavour is to support customers with solutions that truly keep pace with their needs, offering not just protection but also the confidence and reassurance to move forward on their path to parenthood. As we move ahead, we remain committed to empowering every parent with care, coverage, and confidence at every step of their journey.

By recognising the emotional, medical, and financial dimensions of modern motherhood, the campaign reinforces IndusInd General Insurance’s commitment to creating solutions that are both relevant and empathetic to evolving customer needs, supporting families not just at milestones, but through the journeys that lead to them.

Arvind Kejriwal Slams ED Raid on Sanjeev Arora, Says Punjabis Being Harassed !

Delhi. May 9 (BNP): Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday strongly criticised the Enforcement Directorate (ED) following its raid on the premises linked to Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, alleging that Punjabis were being “harassed in every possible way.”

Reacting to the ED action, Kejriwal accused the BJP-led Central government of misusing investigative agencies to target opposition leaders and suppress political voices from Punjab. He said the repeated raids and investigations against AAP leaders reflected a larger pattern of political vendetta.

“Punjabis have been harassed in every possible way,” Kejriwal said while addressing reporters, adding that the people of Punjab would not be intimidated by such actions. He claimed the raids were politically motivated and aimed at weakening the Aam Aadmi Party ahead of upcoming political developments.

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at locations linked to Sanjeev Arora as part of an ongoing investigation. However, officials have not yet released detailed information regarding the nature of the case or the findings of the raid.

The development has triggered a fresh political confrontation between the AAP and the BJP, with party leaders rallying behind Arora and questioning the timing of the enforcement action.