7, May 2026
From ‘Vishwaguru’ to ‘Vishwamitra’: PM Modi’s Foreign Policy Redefining India’s Global Role!
New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy approach is increasingly being viewed as a transformative force shaping India’s position in the evolving global order, with political observers and strategic experts describing the journey as a transition “from Vishwaguru to Vishwamitra.”
Over the past decade, India has projected itself as a “Vishwaguru” — a global guide rooted in civilisational values, diplomacy, development cooperation, and cultural influence. Under PM Modi’s leadership, the country has significantly expanded its international footprint through strategic partnerships, economic diplomacy, climate leadership, digital innovation, and humanitarian outreach.
However, analysts now believe India’s global engagement has evolved beyond moral leadership toward a more proactive, pragmatic, and collaborative role — symbolised by the concept of “Vishwamitra,” meaning a trusted friend of the world. The shift reflects India’s growing focus on strategic alliances, regional stability, humanitarian assistance, and balancing geopolitical interests amid rapidly changing global dynamics.
From championing the cause of the Global South and strengthening ties with major powers such as the United States, France, Japan, and Gulf nations, to maintaining diplomatic engagement with Russia and neighbouring countries, India has emerged as an influential and stabilising force in international affairs.
Prime Minister Modi’s flagship foreign policy initiatives including “Neighbourhood First,” “Act East,” and “Voice of Global South,” along with India’s active participation in global platforms such as the G20, Quad, BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), have significantly enhanced the country’s influence on global policymaking. India’s successful G20 presidency further strengthened its image as a bridge between developed and developing nations.
India’s humanitarian diplomacy has also earned widespread international recognition. From the Vaccine Maitri initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic to evacuation missions in conflict zones, disaster relief operations, and digital public infrastructure support to developing countries, India has increasingly positioned itself as a dependable and responsible global partner.
Strategic experts note that the changing world order — marked by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, technological competition, and climate challenges — has created new opportunities for India to play a more decisive global role. PM Modi’s foreign policy doctrine has focused on balancing national interests with international cooperation while advocating for a multipolar and inclusive world order.
Political commentators say the transition from “Vishwaguru” to “Vishwamitra” reflects India’s effort to combine soft power with strategic realism — positioning the nation not only as a civilisational leader but also as a trusted ally capable of contributing meaningfully to global peace, security, and sustainable development.
As India continues to strengthen its diplomatic outreach and strategic influence, the Modi government’s foreign policy vision is expected to remain central to the country’s aspiration of emerging as a leading global power in the decades ahead.
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- By Neel Achary
7, May 2026
Mandaviya Launches Nationwide Free Annual Health Check-Up
New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday launched a nationwide initiative offering free annual health check-ups for workers aged 40 years and above.
Speaking at ESIC Medical College & Hospital in Delhi, the Minister said the initiative is aimed at strengthening preventive healthcare for workers and improving early detection of health issues through regular medical screening.
He added that the rollout of the four Labour Codes reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing dignity, welfare, and social security for workers across the country under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Describing the occasion as a tribute to “Shram Shakti,” Mandaviya said the government is focused on expanding social security coverage and ensuring better healthcare access for the workforce.
Officials said the initiative is expected to improve occupational health outcomes and promote a more structured approach to worker welfare through timely and preventive medical care.
7, May 2026
Government Launches JANANI Platform to Digitally Transform Maternal and Child Healthcare
New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): The Government has launched JANANI (Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care), a QR-enabled digital health platform designed to improve monitoring and delivery of maternal and child healthcare services across the country.
The platform is an upgraded version of the existing Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) system and creates a continuous digital health record covering the full cycle of care—from pregnancy and delivery to postnatal and newborn services, as well as family planning.
Key features of JANANI
The system enables QR-enabled digital Mother and Child Health (MCH) cards, allowing easy access and portability of health records. It also supports real-time tracking of beneficiaries, automated alerts for high-risk pregnancies, and digital dashboards for health officials to monitor service delivery and identify gaps.
JANANI integrates with national health platforms such as U-WIN and POSHAN, ensuring seamless data sharing across programmes and improving coordination between healthcare services. It also allows registration through multiple identifiers, including ABHA, Aadhaar, and mobile numbers, helping reduce duplication and improve accuracy.
The platform further supports self-registration via web and mobile access, along with reminders for antenatal visits, immunisation schedules, and critical health milestones.
Progress so far
According to official data, JANANI has recorded over 1.34 crore beneficiary registrations, including more than 30 lakh pregnant women. It has also generated over 30 lakh MCH cards and completed more than 1 lakh biometric verifications.
Importance and benefits
Officials said the platform is expected to significantly strengthen maternal and child healthcare delivery by ensuring timely monitoring and early intervention in high-risk cases. It is also designed to improve continuity of care, particularly for migratory populations, by maintaining portable digital records accessible across the country.
By combining real-time tracking, automated alerts, and integrated health data systems, JANANI is expected to enhance efficiency in service delivery, reduce missed health check-ups, and support better health outcomes for mothers and children.
The government said the initiative reflects a broader push toward digital health transformation and more inclusive, technology-driven public healthcare services in India.
7, May 2026
Gold and Silver Gain on Geopolitical Uncertainty and Higher Crude Prices
New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): Gold and silver prices rose by up to 1% on Thursday as global markets reacted to rising crude oil prices and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty linked to US–Iran negotiations, according to market data.
On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), June gold futures touched an intraday high of ₹1,52,887, gaining 0.49%, while silver futures for July climbed as much as 1.49% to ₹2,57,055 during the session.
Internationally, precious metals also traded in positive territory. COMEX gold rose to around $4,703 per ounce, while silver gained over 1% to trade near $78.17 per ounce.
Analysts attributed the upward movement to continued safe-haven demand amid global uncertainty, including tensions in West Asia and concerns surrounding the ongoing US–Iran discussions. Market sentiment has been influenced by reports of negotiations involving nuclear-related commitments and strategic maritime routes.
A weaker US dollar, with the index trading below the 98 mark, also supported the rally in precious metals by making them more attractive to global buyers.
At the same time, rising crude oil prices added to inflationary concerns, further boosting demand for gold and silver as defensive assets. Brent crude traded above $102 per barrel, while WTI also recorded gains.
Market experts say precious metals may continue to remain supported in the near term, driven by geopolitical risks, currency movements, and energy market volatility.
7, May 2026
India Women to Host Zimbabwe in White-Ball Series (Oct 2026)
Mumbai, May 7 (BNP): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has announced a packed home season for 2026–27, featuring a wide range of international and developmental fixtures across senior and age-group levels.
A key highlight of the schedule is the Indian women’s cricket team hosting Zimbabwe women for a maiden white-ball series in October 2026. The series will include three T20 Internationals in Raipur followed by three One-Day Internationals in Baroda, marking an important addition to India’s women’s international calendar.
The BCCI said the season has been designed to provide extensive competitive exposure across formats, with India set to host “A” teams, U19 squads, and senior women’s sides from multiple countries, including Australia, England, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.
As part of the broader schedule, India A men’s team will face Australia A in a multi-format series in Puducherry, while the India U19 men’s team will play Australia U19 in both one-day and multi-day matches across Rajkot and Ahmedabad.
On the women’s development front, Australia A women will tour India for a multi-format series across Mohali and Dharamshala, followed by matches against England A women in Pune and Navi Mumbai. The India U19 women’s team will also feature in a busy calendar, hosting England U19 in a T20 series and Sri Lanka U19 in a white-ball series across Chennai and Puducherry.
Officials said the expanded calendar reflects a strong focus on building depth in Indian cricket, providing consistent international exposure and strengthening the pipeline across senior and junior levels in both men’s and women’s cricket.
7, May 2026
ASUS Prioritizes Customer Experience with Free Service Camp in Bangalore
~The service camp will be held at ASUS Exclusive Store – Systech IT Solutions, Hybrid Store [Pegasus+ROG], Pheonix Market city and will be open to customers from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Bangalore, 7th May 2026 – ASUS, a Taiwanese tech giant, will hold a one-day free service camp in Bangalore on May 9th as part of ASUS Assurance, which is ASUS India’s promise of worry-free ownership, combining quality engineering with dependable support, protection, and service (the 4As) across the entire device lifecycle. The camp will deliver hands-on technical support, comprehensive device health checkups, and expert guidance to help customers optimize performance and extend the life of their ASUS devices.
The service camp will be held at ASUS Exclusive Store – Systech IT Solutions, Hybrid Store (Pegasus + ROG), Phoenix Market city, Bengaluru, and will be open to customers from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
As part of the initiative, ASUS customers can avail a wide range of complimentary services designed to enhance device performance and longevity. These include professional dust cleaning, heating issue checks, and overall system health evaluations. ASUS experts will also assist customers with MyASUS app setup, troubleshooting, and performance optimization, ensuring a smoother and more efficient user experience.
The service camp is designed as a VIP care experience for ASUS laptops, offering hands-on technical support and proactive maintenance completely free of cost. Customers will also receive expert guidance on best practices for device care, helping them maintain optimal performance over time.
To enhance the overall experience, souvenirs will be provided to participants attending the service camp.
This initiative reflects ASUS continued focus on strengthening its after-sales ecosystem and delivering accessible, high-quality service experiences across key markets. Backed by its robust 4A framework, Assured Quality, Always-on Support, All-around Coverage, and Added-value Experience, ASUS continues to expand its service footprint with over 200+ service centres, on-site support capabilities, and comprehensive customer care programs.
ASUS has successfully held free service camps across Pune, Bhilwara, Hazaribagh, Shillong, Delhi, Calicut, Kolkata and Surat demonstrating commitment to nationwide continue future camps scheduled in other cities.
7, May 2026
MATLAB EXPO 2026 India Highlights Agentic AI and Digital Engineering Across Development Workflows
Bengaluru, May 7: MathWorks, the leading developer of mathematical computing software for designing engineered systems, concluded MATLAB EXPO 2026 today in Bengaluru. The one-day event brought together more than 1,300 engineers, scientists, academic researchers, and industry leaders to explore how generative AI, engineering copilots, agentic AI, and Model-Based Design workflows are reshaping modern engineering and product development.
The conference focused on practical adoption of AI-assisted design and simulation across multiple engineering domains. Sessions covered topics including AI copilots integrated into engineering workflows, agentic automation, virtual vehicle development, automated driving, drones and maritime systems, electrification, and wireless and radar technologies. Presentations emphasized maintaining validation, traceability, and engineering rigor while accelerating development cycles.
MATLAB EXPO 2026 Highlights
Engineering leaders, experts, and researchers from organizations such as Boeing, Mercedes Benz Research and Development India, Tata Consultancy Services, Indian Institute of Science and NXP Semiconductors shared real-world case studies addressing engineering challenges across industries including automotive, aerospace and defence, industrial automation, communications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, and medical devices. Attendees also explored live technology demonstrations illustrating how MATLAB® and Simulink® are used to support AI-assisted development, digital twins, embedded AI, and certification-ready workflows focused on production-scale deployment rather than experimentation.
“This year’s MATLAB EXPO reflected growing industry interest in applying GenAI, copilots and agentic AI to engineering workflows in ways that improve productivity while preserving validation, traceability, and safety,” said Sunil Motwani, Country Manager – Sales and Service – MathWorks India. “The discussions showed that organisations are moving beyond experimentation and are beginning to evaluate where these approaches can deliver value in real engineering environments.”
Three keynote sessions were featured at MATLAB EXPO 2026.
Generative AI leaders at MathWorks Seth Deland and Avinash Nehemiah discussed how generative and agentic AI capabilities in MATLAB and Simulink are supporting engineering teams accelerate design processes, improve simulation-led decision-making, and move efficiently from concept to deployable systems.
Savyasachi Srinivas, Vice President of Global Engineering and Technology Centers at Collins Aerospace, described how digital engineering and AI-enabled knowledge systems are being used to move products from concept to certification, including the adoption of digital twins to create shared operational views across teams, and emerging AI-enabled applications in cockpit and cabin environments.
A panel of industry and academic leaders from Tata Consultancy Services, HSBC, Boeing, Mercedes Benz Research and Development (India) and the Indian Institute of Science examined how AI copilots and agents reshape engineering workflows and how teams are validating AI-assisted outputs in real-world systems. The discussion addressed verification, governance, human oversight, and the evolving role of engineers in supervising increasingly automated workflows.
The conference featured additional showcases, including Raftar Formula Racing team from IIT Madras presenting their competition-winning race car, and a dedicated Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology pavilion highlighting drone and eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) platforms developed by MathWorks partner Speedgoat and startups Zmotion Autonomous Systems and Reude Technologies using MATLAB and Simulink.
The technology demonstrations reinforced a consistent theme across MATLAB EXPO 2026: AI copilots and agentic automation are are helping engineering teams move from experimentation to execution. From digital twins to embedded AI and certification-ready systems the sessions and demonstrations emphasized the use of trusted, production-scale AI that accelerates design, verification, and deployment while keeping engineers actively involved in decision-making and oversight.
7, May 2026
Bay of Bengal Low Pressure Likely Around May 10; Odisha on Thunderstorm Alert
Bhubaneswar, May 7 (BNP): A new weather system is likely to develop over the southeast Bay of Bengal around May 10, according to multiple global forecast models, including European weather predictions. However, meteorologists say there remains uncertainty regarding its intensity and exact movement.
Initial model indications suggest the system may originate near Sri Lanka and the Tamil Nadu coast. Experts caution that the trajectory and strength of the system will become clearer only after May 11, once the existing trough over central India weakens.
In the meantime, Odisha continues to experience intermittent rainfall and thunderstorm activity under the influence of prevailing atmospheric conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across most districts of Odisha between May 7 and May 13.
For today, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for several districts including Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Angul, Dhenkanal, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Nabarangapur. These areas are likely to experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph.
Additionally, isolated thunderstorms with winds of 30–40 kmph are likely during the afternoon and evening hours in districts including Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Sonepur, Boudh, Nuapada, and Balangir.
Officials have advised residents to remain alert and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to lightning and strong surface winds, as weather conditions remain active over the coming days.
7, May 2026
RAKEZ signs two strategic agreements to reinforce Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a competitive industrial hub and attract investments
Ras Al Khaimah, May 07: In the presence of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) signed two strategic agreements – with MAGRABi Retail Group and Mighty Industrial Park – during the 5th edition of Make it in the Emirates (MIITE), held at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the emirate’s growing position as a competitive hub for industrial investment and advanced manufacturing.
The agreements reflect increasing investor confidence in Ras Al Khaimah’s industrial ecosystem and its ability to support long-term, scalable manufacturing operations.
The first agreement, represented by MAGRABi Retail Group CEO Yasser Taher, aims to establish a Store Manufacturing Centre – a purpose-built facility dedicated to the production of furniture, store fit-outs, refurbishments, and pop-up concepts across its retail network. Designed to service up to 140 stores annually, the facility will support MAGRABi Retail’s operations across all its markets in the GCC, while creating up to 100 jobs and strengthening the company’s regional expansion and operational capabilities.
Taher said, “At MAGRABi Retail, everything we do is driven by a customer-first philosophy. This investment reinforces our long-term commitment to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah while enabling us to further elevate the retail experience across our growing network. By centralising the production of our store environments, we ensure that every detail reflects our dedication to quality, innovation, and client care.”
The second agreement was concluded with Mighty Industrial Park, represented by shareholder Guichun Guo, setting plans for the development of a comprehensive China-UAE industrial park. The project will focus on metal recycling, dismantling, smelting, precious metal refining, and advanced manufacturing, creating a fully-integrated ecosystem that supports sustainable industrial development and sector growth, while contributing to the advancement of circular economy practices within Ras Al Khaimah.
Guo said, “Ras Al Khaimah was chosen by Mighty Industry Park because it offers the practical conditions required for a resource-circulation industrial project to scale: industrial land, utility access, logistics connectivity and a manufacturing environment that can support recycling, refining, production, and export activities. RAKEZ provides a platform where our secondary copper recycling, refining, and copper products manufacturing operations can be developed as an integrated industrial chain rather than as a single standalone facility. With support from the relevant authorities during the establishment process, we see Ras Al Khaimah as a long-term base for building a circular-economy value chain, attracting upstream and downstream partners, and contributing to the UAE’s green manufacturing and industrial diversification goals.”
Commenting on the agreements, RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “These two agreements reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a leading hub for advanced manufacturing and industrial investment in the region. By partnering with prominent companies such as MAGRABi Retail and Mighty Industrial Park, we are committed to developing an integrated industrial ecosystem that supports innovation and keeps pace with global shifts in value chains and sustainable manufacturing. At RAKEZ, we continue to provide a flexible and enabling business environment that allows investors to expand with confidence, benefit from advanced infrastructure, and access integrated services that support their long-term growth.”
In addition to these milestones, Jallad took part in a high-level panel discussion alongside leaders from the UAE’s free and economic zones. During the session, he highlighted the UAE’s strong industrial resilience, driven by alignment of efforts across federal entities and economic zones, and reinforced by practical, on-the-ground support for businesses. He noted that flexibility, close client engagement, and integrated ecosystem support have been key to maintaining continuity, while long-term investor confidence continues to be built on stability, scalability, and the ability to grow seamlessly within the same environment.
When asked about long-term commitments from global manufacturers, he said, “Certainty remains the key — enabled by a stable environment, seamless scalability within one ecosystem, and integrated access to logistics, financing, and global markets, allowing businesses to grow with confidence over the long term.”
This direction aligns closely with the UAE’s Operation 300bn strategy, with RAKEZ contributing by enabling industrial growth, attracting high-value manufacturing investments, and providing the infrastructure and ecosystem required for businesses to scale within the country.
Through its continued participation in major platforms such as MIITE, RAKEZ reinforces this role by creating an environment where businesses can grow with confidence, expand seamlessly, and navigate evolving global conditions while contributing to the UAE’s long-term industrial and economic ambitions.
7, May 2026
PMEGP Creates 36.33 Lakh Opportunities, Drives Women and Rural Entrepreneurship Growth: Govt Report
New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has generated around 36.33 lakh employment opportunities across the country, reinforcing its role as a key driver of grassroots entrepreneurship and livelihood creation, according to an official statement.
Implemented through the Khadi and Village Industries Commission under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the scheme supports the setting up of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by providing credit-linked subsidies to aspiring entrepreneurs.
During the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021–22 to 2025–26), the scheme utilised its entire approved allocation of ₹13,554.42 crore and facilitated the establishment of over 4.03 lakh micro-enterprises, slightly surpassing its target.
Officials said this performance reflects both strong demand for entrepreneurship support and effective implementation on the ground.
A major highlight of the programme is its focus on inclusion and social equity. Women account for nearly 40% of total beneficiaries, while around 45% of subsidy support has gone to women-led enterprises, encouraging greater participation in business creation.
In addition, about 54% of beneficiaries belong to SC, ST, and OBC communities, underscoring the scheme’s wide social outreach. Nearly 80% of the supported enterprises are located in rural areas, helping boost local employment and promote balanced regional development.
Overall, officials said PMEGP continues to play a crucial role in expanding self-employment opportunities, strengthening small businesses, and supporting India’s broader goal of entrepreneurship-led and inclusive economic growth.
