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Seems Hosabale’s Recent US Trip Impacted Him As Well As RSS: Cong’s Dig Over Pak Remarks

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Seems Hosabale’s Recent US Trip Impacted Him As Well As RSS: Cong’s Dig Over Pak Remarks
The Congress on Wednesday took a swipe at RSS functionary Dattatreya Hosabale over his remarks that there should always be a window for dialogue with Pakistan, saying his recent US trip has impacted him as well as the Sangh.
The opposition party also wondered how the “bhakt brigade, including the various TV channels”, would have frothed, fumed and fulminated if the remarks were made by someone else.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh tagged a post on X carrying the video clip of Hosable’s remarks in an interview to PTI.
“It appears that the recent US trip of Shri Hosabale, during which one of his colleagues admitted to the PM doing what the US wanted him to do, has impacted him as well as the RSS,” Ramesh said on X.
“Just imagine how the bhakt brigade including the various TV channels would have frothed, fumed and fulminated if..,” Ramesh said.
In an interview with PTI Videos, Hosabale has said people-to-people contact is key to breaking the deadlock with Pakistan and there should always be a window for dialogue.
Hosabale said Pakistan’s military and political leadership have lost India’s confidence and it is time for civil society to lead the way.
“The security and self-respect of a country have to be protected and the government of the day should take care of it. But at the same time, we need not close the doors. We should always be ready to engage them in a dialogue,” he said.
The RSS general secretary termed people-to-people contact the key in breaking the deadlock between the two countries and said that it “should be tried more and more now”.
The RSS had been on a mission to remove the misconceptions about it in the western world with senior leader Hosabale reaching out to intellectuals and academics in the US and the UK last month to convey the aims and objectives of the organisation in its centenary year.
Hosabale, the RSS general secretary, toured different cities across the US, addressing conferences at the Stanford University in San Francisco and Hudson Institute here and meeting a cross-section of the Indian diaspora.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had dubbed the RSS as “Rashtriya Surrender Sangh” and alleged that its leader Ram Madhav has revealed the outfit’s true nature of “farzi (fake) nationalism” here and “pure servility” in the US.
He was referring to a video of Madhav from an event in the US, where the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader said that India agreed to stop buying oil from Iran and Russia and also agreed to higher tariffs imposed by the US.
Madhav, however, later apologised, saying what he said was “factually incorrect” as India did not agree to stop importing oil from Russia and had “vigorously protested” the 50 per cent tariff imposition by the Trump administration. (Agencies)

Amit Shah Reduces Convoy Size To Less Than Half Following PM Modi’s Appeal For Fuel Conservation Amid West Asia Crisis

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Amit Shah Reduces Convoy Size To Less Than Half Following PM Modi’s Appeal For Fuel Conservation Amid West Asia Crisis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reduced the size of his convoy to less than half following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “seven appeals” for responsible fuel consumption amid the West Asia crisis.
The reduction in the number of vehicles in the Home Minister’s convoy has been implemented as part of a broader effort within the government to promote efficient use of resources while maintaining all mandatory security arrangements.
The development comes shortly after Prime Minister Modi significantly reduced the size of his own convoy during recent domestic visits to Gujarat and Assam while retaining all essential security components mandated under Special Protection Group (SPG) protocols.
Sources said the Prime Minister’s decision was implemented immediately after his speech in Hyderabad, where he urged citizens to contribute towards economic resilience by reducing dependence on imported fuel and adopting environmentally sustainable alternatives.
Following the Prime Minister’s appeal, Amit Shah also decided to reduce the number of vehicles accompanying his convoy without compromising security protocols.
In another step aimed at promoting sustainability, PM Modi has also directed officials to include Electric Vehicles (EVs) in his convoy wherever feasible, without making any fresh purchases.
“Patriotism is not only about the willingness to sacrifice one’s life on the border. In these times, it is about living responsibly and fulfilling our duties to the nation in our daily lives,” the Prime Minister had said.

“Patriotism is not only about the willingness to sacrifice one’s life on the border. In these times, it is about living responsibly and fulfilling our duties to the nation in our daily lives,” the Prime Minister had said.
Highlighting the impact of global disruptions and rising fuel costs, PM Modi appealed to people to reduce petrol and diesel consumption by increasingly using public transport, car-pooling and electric vehicles.

The Prime Minister also urged citizens to reduce edible oil consumption to lower import dependence and called upon farmers to cut the use of chemical fertilisers and move towards natural farming practices.
“The same is true for edible oil. We have to spend foreign currency on its import. If every household reduces the use of edible oil, it is a huge contribution to patriotism,” PM Modi had said. (AGENCIES)

Sonia Gandhi Visits Medanta Hospital For ‘Routine’ Check-Up

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Sonia Gandhi Visits Medanta Hospital For ‘Routine’ Check-Up

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday visited Medanta Hospital in Gurugram for a routine check-up, a police source said.
The former Congress president is at the hospital and will leave soon, the officer said.There was no comment from the hospital on the visit. (AGENCIES)

Nursing Personnel Exemplify Highest Standards Of Service: President Murmu

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Nursing Personnel Exemplify Highest Standards Of Service: President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards for 2026 on 15 nursing professionals in recognition of their exemplary service and contribution to strengthening public healthcare delivery.
“Nursing personnel exemplify the highest standards of service and play a crucial role in delivering quality healthcare, often in the most challenging circumstances. I commend all the awardees for their inspiring devotion to duty and their tireless efforts in upholding the highest standards of patient care,” the president said on the occasion.
A total of 15 nurses from diverse regions and healthcare settings were honoured for their unwavering dedication to strengthening public health delivery and outstanding commitment to the welfare of the community.
The awards were presented at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the presence of Union Health Minister J P Nadda.
In her message, the President said that the occasion is a fitting tribute to the invaluable contribution of nursing personnel and healthcare professionals who serve the nation with compassion and unwavering dedication.
Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Florence Nightingale Award honours the dedication, compassion and resilience of nursing professionals, including registered nurses, midwives, auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) and lady health visitors serving in central and state governments, Union Territories and voluntary organisations.
The award carries a Certificate of Merit, a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a medal. Among the awardees were six ANMs and nine nurses from different parts of the country, including Ladakh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep.
The health ministry statement said nurses play a pivotal role in addressing multiple health challenges and are central to evidence-based and accessible healthcare delivery.
It also highlighted initiatives undertaken to strengthen the nursing workforce, including the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act and the establishment of 157 nursing colleges co-located with medical colleges in the country. (Agencies)

Union Mines Ministry Launches 2nd Tranche Of E-Auction For 12 Limestone Blocks In J&K

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Union Mines Ministry Launches 2nd Tranche Of E-Auction For 12 Limestone Blocks In J&K
The Union Ministry of Mines on Tuesday launched the second tranche of e-auction for 12 limestone blocks in Jammu and Kashmir, marking another major milestone towards transparent, sustainable and investor-friendly mineral development in the Union Territory.
Ministry of Mines Secretary Piyush Goyal officially launched the tranche at a function here. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the transformative reforms and amendments undertaken by the ministry to simplify processes, strengthen transparency and improve ease of doing business in the mining sector.
He emphasised that J-K possesses immense mineral potential and the auction and operationalisation of these blocks will significantly contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu and Kashmir, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat through economic growth, employment generation and industrial development.
“A total of 12 limestone blocks, spread across the districts of Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch have been put up for auction under Tranche II. These include both newly identified blocks and blocks being re-auctioned under a second attempt, in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015 (as amended),” the PIB said in a handout.
It said the blocks are categorised under G3 and G4 stages of the United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC) and are expected to attract strong industry interest, particularly from the cement and infrastructure sectors. During the event, Joint Secretary and Designated Officer, Farida M Naik, urged the bidders to explore the region’s mining potential, highlighting its role in boosting economic growth, employment and socio-economic development. The sale of tender documents will commence on May 18 and the pre-bid conference is scheduled for June 5 this year.
The auction is conducted under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015. Building upon the momentum of the first tranche, this initiative reflects a calibrated approach to ensure optimal utilisation of mineral resources, while enhancing investor participation and confidence.
The technical session featured detailed presentations by MECL, SBICAPs, and MSTC.
Srikant Sharma, MECL, presented the geological and mineral potential of the 12 limestone blocks. Pratin Sharma, Assistant Vice President, SBICAPs, explained the mineral auction process and tender framework while Keshav Arora, Manager, MSTC, demonstrated the e-auction portal and online bidding process, according to the PIB handout. (Agencies)

DC Ramban Disburses ₹12.10 Lakh Compensation to Road Accident Victims’ Families, Calls for Stronger Road Safety Measures

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DC Ramban Disburses ₹12.10 Lakh Compensation to Road Accident Victims’ Families, Calls for Stronger Road Safety Measures
Ramban, May 12: Deputy Commissioner Ramban,  disbursed compensation amounting to ₹12.10 lakh under the J&K Road Accident Victim Fund among the families of deceased road accident victims and minor injured persons in the district.
The Deputy Commissioner said that the administration remains committed to ensuring timely relief and support to families affected by road accidents. He stressed that welfare measures aimed at assisting victims should reach beneficiaries without unnecessary delay.
Highlighting the growing need for road safety awareness, the DC directed concerned officials to intensify awareness campaigns across Ramban district and ensure strict enforcement of traffic rules to prevent accidents and save precious lives.
He also appealed to the public to strictly follow traffic regulations and adopt responsible driving practices for safer roads and public safety.

Farooq Abdullah Says J&K Can Ban Alcohol In Two Minutes If Centre Compensates Revenue Loss

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Farooq Abdullah Says J&K Can Ban Alcohol In Two Minutes If Centre Compensates Revenue Loss
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said the J&K Government could ban alcohol in two minutes if the Centre compensate for the loss of revenue.
Speaking on the ongoing controversy over liquor outlets, Abdullah said he personally does not consume alcohol but maintained that those who drink would procure it from outside Jammu and Kashmir if it was not available locally.
“I do not drink alcohol. Those who drink alcohol, they will drink. If they do not get it from here, they will bring it from outside,” he said. “And those who are raising their voices, ask them who are the people who drink alcohol.”
Recalling an incident from 1977, Abdullah said former Prime Minister Morarji Desai had asked his father, former J&K Chief Minister Sheikh Abdullah, to stop alcohol sales in the state.
” My father told him that if the Centre gives us the revenue we earn from it, then we will stop it. Nothing happened,” he said adding that if today the Centre compensate for the loss of revenue, the government could ban alcohol in two minutes.
NC president argued that the issue was being politicised by opponents and questioned why there was no opposition when liquor shops were opened earlier.
“We did not open liquor stores. Those who opened them, why did nobody raise their voice then Shops were opening in every village,” he said.
Apparently targeting the opposition People’s Democratic Party, Abdullah accused them of raising the issue only to attack the government.
“They are ready to criticise us over everything…They think we are afraid of them, but we will defeat them in a way they will remember,” he said.
A political row erupted in Jammu and Kashmir recently over remarks by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on liquor consumption, with PDP leader Iltija Mufti accusing him ignoring the sensitivities of the Muslim-majority region.
On Sunday Omar said that no one was being forced to consume alcohol and people visited liquor shops by their own choice. The remarks drew criticism from opposition parties and sections of the public. A day later, the Chief Minister sought to clarify his statement, saying his comments were being “twisted” by political opponents.
He opposed liquor consumption by Muslims and said liquor available in Jammu and Kashmir was only for the adherents of other religions that allow its consumption.
The veteran politician Abdullah also voiced concern over the deepening fuel and gas crisis amid the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States.
On Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for austerity, Abdullah said the country was heading towards a difficult situation due to the growing crisis.
“We are facing a fuel crisis and a gas crisis, and we are heading towards destruction,” Abdullah said, adding that the worsening situation.
He said online education was not a viable alternative for economically weaker sections. “It is a pity that poor people do not have access to online education. Education is necessary, but online education is not possible for everyone,” he said.
Abdullah stressed the need to find alternative solutions to ensure education does not suffer, especially for underprivileged students.
Warning of a serious economic fallout if the conflict escalates further, Abdullah said the consequences could be devastating. “There is no doubt about it. If this crisis does not end, if the war between Iran and the United States does not end, then only God knows what will happen to us,” he said. (Agencies)

NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled; Govt Orders CBI Inquiry Into Paper Leak Allegations

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NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled; Govt Orders CBI Inquiry Into Paper Leak Allegations
The National Testing Agency on Tuesday cancelled the NEET (UG) 2026 exam conducted on May 3 amid allegations of paper leak, with the government asking the CBI to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into the “irregularities”.
The examination will now be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately.
In a statement on X, the National Testing Agency (NTA) said the decision was taken in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
“On the basis of inputs subsequently examined by NTA in coordination with central agencies, and the investigative findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026, and to re-conduct the examination on dates that will be notified separately,” the agency said.
The agency said the inputs received, taken together with findings shared by law enforcement agencies, established that the “present examination process could not be allowed to stand.” “The re-conducted examination dates, along with the re-issued admit-card schedule, will be communicated through the official channels of the Agency in the coming days,” it added.
The NTA further said the government has decided to refer the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations linked to the examination.
“NTA will extend full cooperation to the Bureau and will provide all materials, records, and assistance the inquiry requires,” it added.
“This decision has been taken in the interest of students and in recognition of the trust on which the national examination system rests,” NTA said.
The agency acknowledged that the re-conduct of the examination would cause “real and significant inconvenience” to candidates and their families, but said the decision was necessary to prevent “greater and more lasting damage” to trust in the examination system.
According to the NTA, the registration data, candidature and examination centres opted for in the May 2026 cycle will be carried forward for the reconducted examination.
“No fresh registration will be required, and no additional examination fee will be levied,” the statement said, adding that fees already paid by students will be refunded and the examination will be re-conducted using NTA’s internal resources.
The agency said fresh examination dates and the revised admit-card schedule will be communicated through official channels in the coming days and advised candidates and parents to rely only on verified information released by the agency.
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) was conducted by the NTA on May 3 for students seeking admission to medical education courses at the undergraduate level.
In a post on X on Sunday, the NTA had said question papers were transported in GPS-tracked vehicles carrying unique, traceable watermark identifiers, while examination centres were monitored through AI-assisted CCTV surveillance from a central control room.
“The National Testing Agency is aware of reports concerning the action initiated by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group in connection with alleged irregularities around NEET (UG) 2026. The examination on May 3, 2026 was conducted as scheduled and under a full security protocol,” the NTA had said.
According to the agency, inputs regarding alleged malpractice activity were received on the evening of May 7, four days after the examination, and were escalated to central agencies on the morning of May 8 for “independent verification and necessary action”. (Agencies)

Teenage Boy Dies In Fire In Seminary At J&K’s Anantnag

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Teenage Boy Dies In Fire In Seminary At J&K’s Anantnag
A 12-year-old boy died and three others sustained burn injuries in a fire in a seminary in Anantnag district on Tuesday, officials said.
“A fire broke out in Faizan Baba Hyder Rishi Darul Aloom at Court Road in Anantnag in which four boys sustained burn injuries,” they said.
One of the injured boys, Bilal Ahmad, succumbed at a hospital.
The blaze was put out by the fire brigade and its cause is being ascertained. (Agencies)

CM Vijay Orders Closure Of 717 Liquor Shops Across Tamil Nadu

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CM Vijay Orders Closure Of 717 Liquor Shops Across Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Tuesday ordered the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets across the state.
Considering the welfare of the public in mind, Vijay issued orders to shut down the retail liquor outlets. Accordingly, 276 outlets near places of worship, 186 shops near educational institutions, and 255 outlets near bus stands will be closed within the next two weeks, an official release said.
There has been widespread demand, especially from women and a few political parties in the state, that all the liquor shops in the state should be closed.
The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) operates 4,765 retail liquor outlets across the state. (Agencies)
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