India Advocates for Global Reforms and Multilateralism at UNGA and BRICS Meetings
India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, made significant interventions at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and a BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting, articulating India's foreign policy priorities and vision for global governance. At the UNGA, Jaishankar strongly condemned Pakistan for its glorification of terrorism, urging the international community to take decisive action against such practices.
Furthermore, he reiterated India's call for an expansion of the UN Security Council, advocating for both permanent and non-permanent memberships to ensure the body is more representative of the current global landscape. Jaishankar also pressed for an end to hostilities in Ukraine and Gaza, expressing India's support for any initiatives that could restore peace in these conflict zones. On the economic front, during the BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting, he emphasized the bloc's crucial role in defending the multilateral trading system amidst rising protectionism and tariff volatility. He highlighted that BRICS stands as a "strong voice of reason and constructive change" when multilateralism is under stress.
PM Modi Flags Off 13th Amrit Bharat Express Connecting Surat and Brahmapur
In a significant boost to India's railway infrastructure and connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Udhna (Surat)–Brahmapur Amrit Bharat Express. This new non-AC superfast train marks the 13th addition to the Amrit Bharat Express fleet, aiming to enhance travel between Gujarat and Odisha. The initiative is part of the government's broader efforts to improve transportation networks and facilitate easier movement for citizens across different states, contributing to regional development and economic activity.
Tragic Stampede at Political Rally in Karur Claims Multiple Lives
A tragic incident unfolded in Karur, Tamil Nadu, where at least 39 people died in a stampede at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay. The event, part of Vijay's state-wide political tour, saw thousands of people gathered in congested areas, leading to the catastrophic crowd surge. Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. Chief Minister Stalin also ordered an inquiry into the tragic event, with local authorities initiating investigations to ascertain the exact cause and prevent future occurrences.