5, May 2026
Narendra Modi Condemns Iran Attack on UAE, Backs Safe Navigation in Strait of Hormuz!
New Delhi, May 05 (BNP): India on Tuesday strongly condemned the reported Iranian drone and missile attacks on an oil facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which left three Indian nationals injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure as “unacceptable” and called for restraint.
The attack targeted the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone in Fujairah, a key energy and shipping hub, amid heightened tensions in West Asia. The incident occurred shortly after the United States launched “Project Freedom” to escort stranded merchant vessels through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, which has remained disrupted since the escalation of the regional conflict earlier this year.
“Strongly condemn the attacks on the UAE that resulted in injuries to three Indian nationals. Targeting civilians and infrastructure is unacceptable,” the Prime Minister said. He further reaffirmed that India stands in firm solidarity with the UAE and emphasised the need for peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
Highlighting the importance of maritime security, Modi underscored that ensuring safe and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is critical for regional stability and global trade.
The Government of India is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with UAE authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian citizens in the region.
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- By Neel Achary
5, May 2026
NCERT Revises SC-Barred Class 8 Social Science Textbook, Release Likely Within a Week!
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): The Class 8 Social Science textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training, earlier barred by the Supreme Court of India, has been revised and is likely to be released within a week, according to sources in the Ministry of Education.
Titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond (Part II)”, the textbook had been withdrawn in March following the Court’s directive imposing a blanket ban on its publication, reprinting, and digital circulation over concerns regarding a chapter referencing corruption in the judiciary.
Officials stated that the revised edition has undergone scrutiny by an expert committee constituted by NCERT, which reviewed and modified the contentious content. The updated version has reportedly received approval from the expert panel, and is now awaiting final clearance from the NCERT syllabus committee.
“The revised book has been approved by the expert panel. A syllabus committee meeting will grant final clearance, following which printing is expected to begin later this week,” a source said.
The development comes amid growing concerns over delays in the availability of NCERT textbooks, which have begun impacting students since the academic session commenced on April 1. Once approved, printing of the revised edition will be initiated immediately, and the textbook is expected to be available in the market within a week, ensuring minimal disruption to academic activities.
5, May 2026
Amit Shah, J. P. Nadda Named BJP Observers as Party Scripts Historic Wins in West Bengal & Assam!
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): In the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) landmark electoral performance, senior leaders Amit Shah and J. P. Nadda have been appointed as central observers for key states to oversee the formation of legislative leadership.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been designated as the BJP’s central observer for West Bengal, with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi serving as co-observer. Meanwhile, JP Nadda has been appointed as the central observer for Assam, assisted by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini as co-observer.
The appointments follow the BJP’s historic victory in the recently concluded Assembly elections. In West Bengal, the Bharatiya Janata Party is set to form its first-ever government after securing 207 out of 294 seats, while the All India Trinamool Congress won 80 seats. In Assam, the BJP secured 82 seats, comfortably surpassing the majority mark of 64, with its allies — Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People’s Front — winning 10 seats each. The Indian National Congress, despite alliances, managed only 19 seats.
In contrast, the Congress-led United Democratic Front registered a strong victory in Kerala, with the Congress alone winning 63 seats in the 140-member Assembly. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) secured 26 seats, while the Communist Party of India won 8 seats.
Tamil Nadu witnessed a significant political shift, with Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam emerging as the single largest party, winning 107 seats in the 234-member Assembly, just short of the majority mark. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam secured 59 seats, marking a notable setback for the incumbent government.
Following the results, Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi accepted the resignation of outgoing Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and his Council of Ministers, paving the way for the formation of a new government.
These developments underscore a transformative electoral cycle across multiple states, with shifting political dynamics and the emergence of new power centres in India’s regional landscape.
5, May 2026
India Continue to Lead ICC T20I Rankings After Latest Update
Dubai, May 5 (BNP): India have retained their position in the latest ICC T20 International rankings, followed by England in second place and Australia in third, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The updated rankings are based on a weighted system that gives full value to matches played since May 2025, while performances from the previous two years carry reduced weightage.
India’s strong and consistent performances in recent international tournaments, including their successful T20 World Cup campaign, have helped them maintain their standing in the global rankings.
5, May 2026
Electric Two-Wheeler Penetration Hits 6.5 pc in FY26: Govt
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): India’s electric mobility sector continues to register steady growth, with electric two-wheeler penetration reaching 6.5% in FY 2025–26, according to the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
The government said this growth reflects increasing consumer acceptance of electric vehicles, supported by improving availability of models, expanding charging infrastructure, and rising awareness about cleaner mobility options. It also indicates strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities within the EV ecosystem.
Officials highlighted that the steady rise in adoption demonstrates India’s ongoing transition towards sustainable transport solutions. The growth in the electric two-wheeler segment, which remains the largest contributor to EV sales in the country, is seen as a key indicator of broader e-mobility progress.
The Ministry noted that policy support and industry participation have played a crucial role in accelerating adoption, while continued investments in technology and manufacturing are expected to further strengthen the sector in the coming years.
5, May 2026
Indian Journalists Win Pulitzer Prize for Cybercrime Investigation
New York, May 5, 2026: Indian journalists Anand RK and Suparna Sharma, along with Natalie Obiko Pearson, have been awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize in the Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category for their work on a cybercrime investigation published by Bloomberg.
The award-winning project highlighted the growing threat of digital scams, telling the story of a Lucknow-based neurologist who was deceived by cybercriminals impersonating officials and subjected to a prolonged ordeal that led to significant financial loss. The report brought attention to the human impact of increasingly sophisticated cyber fraud.
In addition, journalist Devjyot Ghoshal was named a finalist in the same category for his investigation into cybercrime and trafficking networks in Southeast Asia, where victims are reportedly forced into carrying out scams.
Another Indian journalist, Aniruddha Ghosal, was part of a team that won in the International Reporting category for an investigation into the use of advanced surveillance technologies by authorities across countries.
The Pulitzer Prizes, administered by Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, are among the highest honours in global journalism. The recognition highlights the growing role of Indian journalists in uncovering complex global issues and bringing critical stories to light.
5, May 2026
India U-18 Hockey Teams Set for Australia Series Ahead of Asia Cup
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): India’s Under-18 men’s and women’s hockey teams are set to compete in a four-match series against Australia as part of their preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup.
The series is designed to provide both teams with valuable international exposure and competitive match practice ahead of the continental tournament. Taking on a strong opponent like Australia is expected to help players sharpen their skills, adapt to high-pressure situations, and improve overall team coordination.
The matches will also serve as an important platform for team management to assess player performance, experiment with combinations, and fine-tune strategies. Officials believe that such international fixtures are crucial in building confidence and readiness among young players as they prepare to represent the country on a larger stage.
With the Asia Cup approaching, the series is expected to play a key role in strengthening India’s preparations and ensuring both teams are well-equipped to deliver strong performances.
5, May 2026
Bhutan Secures Dollar 515 Million World Bank Support for Major Hydropower Project
Thimphu/New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): Bhutan has signed financing agreements worth $515 million with the World Bank to advance the Dorjilung Hydropower Project, a large-scale renewable energy initiative being developed in partnership with Tata Power and Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC).
Planned as a 1,125 MW project under a public-private partnership model, it will be the largest hydropower venture in Bhutan. DGPC will hold a majority stake of 60%, while Tata Power will own the remaining 40%.
The project is expected to generate around 4,500 GWh of electricity annually. A major share of this power will be supplied to India, helping meet growing demand, especially during peak periods, while also strengthening Bhutan’s position as a clean energy exporter.
The initiative underscores growing regional cooperation in sustainable energy and is expected to contribute to economic development and long-term energy security for both countries.
5, May 2026
HOP Events, helmed by Kalpesh Kinariwala, bridges Indian talent and global prestige at the Shows of India 2026 Conclave
New Delhi, May 5: HOP Events, led by Founder and Chairman Kalpesh Kinariwala, marked its strategic entry into the Indian market as the anchor sponsor of the Shows of India 2026 Conclave, reinforcing its vision to connect Indian talent with global platforms.
Held at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, the sixth edition of the conclave concluded on May 2, bringing together leading industry professionals, creators, and stakeholders shaping India’s live entertainment ecosystem.
Through its participation, HOP Events aims to bridge the gap between iconic Indian and South Asian artists and international venues, offering them access to global audiences and premium productions. Beyond its anchor sponsorship, the company actively engaged in key discussions and networking forums, with Kalpesh Kinariwala also taking the stage as a speaker.
The initiative reflects HOP Events’ long-term strategy to identify, support, and elevate Indian talent across international markets, particularly in regions with a strong South Asian diaspora. By leveraging its expertise in large-scale experiential events and global entertainment platforms, the company seeks to create new opportunities for artists, managers, and creative professionals.
Highlighting the growing global appeal of Indian artists, Kinariwala emphasised the untapped potential for their presence on international stages, particularly in markets like the UAE and the wider GCC.
With a track record of delivering high-profile live experiences, HOP Events is positioning itself as a key enabler in taking Indian cultural talent to global audiences. The company’s expansion plans include scaling across the GCC and other global diaspora hubs, strengthening its role as a bridge between Indian artistry and world-class entertainment platforms.
5, May 2026
President Murmu Pays Homage to Former President Giani Zail Singh on Birth Anniversary
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday paid floral tributes to former President of India Giani Zail Singh at Rashtrapati Bhavan on the occasion of his birth anniversary, honouring his contribution to the nation and his legacy in public life.
Giani Zail Singh, who served as the seventh President of India from 1982 to 1987, is remembered as a prominent statesman who played a significant role in India’s political landscape. Born on May 5, 1916, in Sandhwan village of Faridkot district in Punjab, he dedicated several decades of his life to public service.
During his long political career, he held several important positions and was widely respected for his commitment to the welfare of the people and his leadership at both the state and national levels.
The tribute ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan reflected respect for his enduring contributions to the nation and his role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions.
