India’s Ambassador to the United States Vinay Mohan Kwatra on Wednesday highlighted the global human cost of terrorism while marking one year since the Pahalgam terror attack, saying such acts are a “scourge on humanity” that must be defeated with collective resolve.
Speaking to ANI during a special exhibition titled “The Human Cost of Terrorism,” Kwatra said the event commemorates innocent lives lost to terror worldwide and serves as a reminder of the need for a united response against terrorism.

“Essentially, you know, remembering the precious lives that were lost due to the ghastly acts of terrorism all across the world. The exhibition has a detailed listing of all such accidents. This day particularly sits very heavily, weighs very heavily on India and the rest of the world because today we mark the first anniversary, the first anniversary of the ghastly terror acts of Pahalgam in which 26 innocent Indian civilians were killed by armed terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir exactly a year ago. I think acts like Pahalgam and other terrorist acts are acts of cowardice against humanity. The exhibition, the special exhibition today, essentially serves to remind us of a few things,” he told ANI.

“One, the scourge of terror on humanity is very much bent upon destroying our societies and the ways of our lives. Two, how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been very, very clear in terms of the resolve of India, unwavering with this scourge and defeating it completely. So I think the special exhibition today, which brings together congressmen, senators, members of the Indian community and members of the press here this evening, essentially showcases the human cost of terrorism and determination to deal with it and, of course, defeat it,” Kwatra further said.

Marking one year since the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the nation recalled the shock of April 22, 2025, when terrorists struck the scenic tourist town in Jammu and Kashmir.

The assailants entered and killed 26 civilians, most tourists, turning the picturesque location into a site of bloodshed.
In the cross-border communal attack in Pahalgam, the assailants questioned the victims about their religion before killing them, leaving families grappling with loss even a year later.

As India mourned, what followed was decisive action by the Indian armed forces in the form of Operation Sindoor.

The Indian armed forces struck terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) during the operation launched on May 7, 2025. According to official details, the forces destroyed nine major terror launchpads linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen and eliminated over 100 terrorists.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta condemned the remarks made by Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, where he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “terrorist,” saying that there is widespread public outrage over his statement and the Congress National President should realise the global image of PM Modi as a leader.

Speaking to ANI, the Chief Minister slammed the Congress party, citing their repeated insults and abuses towards constitutional institutions and the judiciary.
“He has insulted individuals holding constitutional positions in the country; sometimes they hurl abuses at the country’s constitutional institutions, sometimes they curse the judiciary, and sometimes they use derogatory words against the armed forces. There is widespread public outrage over his statement; the public strongly condemns such behaviour. Kharge should realise that PM Modi is one of the most popular leaders of the world. He resides in the heart of every Indian,” she said.

Her criticism follows the remarks of the Congress President against the AIADMK for supporting the BJP, while he labelled PM Modi a “terrorist who does not believe in equality” on the last day of Tamil Nadu election campaigning.

When questioned on the choice of words, Kharge quickly defended himself, claiming that he meant to say that the PM was terrorising his political opponents.
“He (PM Modi) is terrorising people and political parties. I never said he is a terrorist. What I mean, I want to clarify, is that Modi always threatens. The institutions like ED, I-T and CBI are in his hands. He wants to take delimitation also into his hands,” Kharge said.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially taken note of the controversial remarks made by him.

ECI has issued a formal notice to Kharge, citing a potential violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the high-stakes campaign for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
The ECI characterised the language used as “intemperate and highly objectionable,” noting that such dehumanising labels undermine the dignity of democratic institutions. The Congress President has been granted a strict window of 24 hours to clarify his stance.

The Delhi Police on Thursday said the man arrested for the murder of a 22-year-old woman in southeast Delhi’s Amar Colony had sold his mobile phone and spent money on travel in an apparent bid to avoid being tracked after fleeing Rajasthan.

The case, which has shocked the capital, has revealed a sequence of events stretching from Alwar to Delhi, with investigators piecing together the accused’s movements in the days leading up to and after the crime.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Southern Range) Vijay Kumar told ANI that the accused, Rahul Meena, sold his mobile phone for Rs 10,000 and hired a vehicle for about Rs 6,000 to reach Delhi. Police believe this was done deliberately to prevent authorities from tracing him through digital or transport records.

#WATCH | Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer’s daughter murder case in Delhi | Accused Rahul Meena brought to Amar Colony Police Station. pic.twitter.com/v4bBbHygNU

— ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2026

How the accused moved from Alwar to Delhi

During the probe, police teams visited Meena’s residence in Alwar, where they found that he had allegedly been involved in a molestation incident in his neighbourhood just a day before the murder. Following that episode, he left for Delhi to evade possible police action.

The accused was eventually arrested from an OYO hotel in Dwarka on Wednesday after multiple police teams were deployed across Delhi and nearby locations. “Multiple teams were formed and sent across Delhi and other locations to trace the accused before he was apprehended,” Kumar said, adding that Meena is currently being interrogated.

Inside knowledge of the household

Investigators said Meena had been working as a domestic help with the victim’s family for nearly a year and was familiar with their daily routine. He was aware that the parents would step out in the morning, leaving their daughter alone at home.

CCTV footage reviewed by police shows the accused entering the colony around 6:30 am, entering the house at 6:39 am and leaving at about 7:20 am on the day of the incident.

Officials said there were no signs of forced entry, indicating that the accused used a spare key kept in a shoe rack for domestic workers to access the house.

What happened on the day of the murder

The victim’s father alerted the police after finding his daughter unconscious at home. She was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Investigators said the accused allegedly committed the crime, changed his clothes and fled with approximately Rs 2.5 lakh in cash from the house.

A case has been registered against Meena under charges of rape, murder and robbery. Further investigation is ongoing, police said.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has launched a fresh campaign in Goregaon aimed at promoting the Marathi language, with auto-rickshaw drivers being mobilised to display boards reading “I Know Marathi” on their vehicles.

The initiative, announced on Wednesday, has quickly drawn attention across political and social circles, sparking both praise and criticism.

MNS leader Sanjay Naik, speaking to the media, said that the campaign is not intended to target any community but rather to highlight the importance of the state’s language and cultural identity.

He emphasised that Marathi is central to Maharashtra’s heritage and that those living and working in the state should make an effort to learn it.

Naik added that learning the local language helps people integrate more easily into society and demonstrates respect for the culture.

In his remarks, the MNS leader acknowledged the contributions of North Indians who have lived in Maharashtra for decades, raising families and becoming an integral part of society.

He stressed that the campaign is not against them, but is meant to encourage awareness and respect for Marathi.

“I am fighting for the Marathi language. I am fluent in Hindi as well, but I want everyone to understand that Maharashtra has its own distinct identity and language. If one intends to live here, work here, and raise a family, then learning and using Marathi is essential,” Naik said.

He also offered an apology if the campaign had inadvertently hurt anyone’s sentiments.

The campaign has generated mixed reactions.

Supporters view it as a positive step toward preserving and promoting the local language, reinforcing pride in Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.

Critics, however, say that it could be seen as exerting pressure in the name of regional identity, potentially alienating communities who already contribute significantly to the state’s social and economic fabric.

By placing “I Know Marathi” boards on auto-rickshaws, the MNS hopes to create visibility and spark conversations about the importance of the language in everyday life.

Whether seen as a cultural assertion or a political move, the campaign underscores the ongoing debate in Maharashtra about balancing regional identity with inclusivity in a diverse society.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appealed to voters in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal to participate actively in the Assembly elections, describing voting as a “sacred democratic duty” and encouraging strong turnout, especially among young people and women.

The call comes as polling got underway in both states amid elaborate security arrangements, with authorities aiming for smooth conduct across constituencies. The elections are being seen as politically significant, with staggered phases in West Bengal and a single-phase vote in Tamil Nadu shaping the immediate electoral landscape.

In a message posted on X, PM Modi urged voters in Tamil Nadu to take part enthusiastically and help set a new benchmark in voter participation. “As the people of Tamil Nadu prepare to vote in the Assembly elections, I urge all voters to fulfil this sacred democratic duty with great enthusiasm. In particular, I call upon the youth and women of Tamil Nadu to turn out in large numbers and pave the way for a record turnout of votes,” he wrote.

Issuing a similar appeal for West Bengal, where the first phase of polling is being held on Thursday, the Prime Minister called the electoral exercise a “festival of democracy” and asked citizens to vote in large numbers. “The first phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections is today. I call upon all citizens to participate with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy. I especially urge my young friends and the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers,” he said.

Polling begins across Tamil Nadu and West Bengal

Voting commenced early in the day across both states, with polling scheduled to continue till 6 pm. Election officials conducted mock polls at polling stations before the start of voting to ensure the readiness of the process.

Tamil Nadu is witnessing a single-phase election covering all 234 Assembly constituencies. In contrast, West Bengal is voting in two phases for its 294 seats, with 152 constituencies going to polls in the first phase and the remaining seats set to vote on April 29.

According to the Election Commission of India, as many as 1,478 candidates are contesting in the first phase of polling. The counting of votes for both states is scheduled for May 4.

On the occasion of World Earth Day, the conversation around sustainability often turns to forests, oceans, and climate. Yet, one of the most critical resources sustaining life remains largely unnoticed – soil. Beneath every thriving crop and every secure food system lies a complex, living ecosystem that quietly performs functions essential not just for agriculture, but for the health of the planet itself.

Soil is far more than a passive medium for plant growth. It is a dynamic and living system, teeming with microorganisms that drive nutrient cycling, regulate water movement, and support biodiversity at multiple levels. It acts as a natural reservoir, storing carbon and playing a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. The productivity, resilience, and long-term viability of agriculture are intrinsically tied to the health of this foundational resource.

However, decades of intensive agricultural practices have begun to take a visible toll. The increasing pressure to maximize yields has often led to excessive and imbalanced use of fertilisers, particularly nitrogen-heavy inputs. While these may provide short-term gains, their prolonged and unchecked use has resulted in significant nutrient imbalances within the soil. Essential micronutrients are depleted, soil organic carbon levels decline, and the rich microbial life that sustains soil fertility begins to diminish. The result is a gradual but steady erosion of soil health – one that ultimately reflects in reduced productivity and increased vulnerability of crops to stress.

Parallel to the challenge of soil degradation is the growing concern of water scarcity. Agriculture remains the largest consumer of freshwater resources, and inefficient irrigation practices continue to strain already depleting groundwater reserves. In an era marked by climate variability, erratic rainfall patterns, and increasing frequency of droughts, the need for efficient water management has never been more urgent.

Adopting scientifically sound and resource-efficient practices offers a clear pathway forward. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting and precision irrigation systems – like drip and sprinkler methods – enable farmers to optimize water use without compromising crop health. Complementary practices such as mulching and proper field levelling further enhance moisture retention and reduce water loss, ensuring that every drop contributes effectively to plant growth.

Equally important is the shift towards a more balanced and holistic approach to nutrient management. Soil testing must form the backbone of fertiliser application strategies, ensuring that crops receive nutrients in the right proportion and at the right time. Integrating organic sources – such as farmyard manure, compost, and green manure – helps replenish soil organic matter, improving both soil structure and its capacity to retain water and nutrients.

Sustainable soil management also extends to cultivation practices. Reduced or minimum tillage helps preserve soil structure, while crop rotation and intercropping promote biodiversity and break pest and disease cycles. The inclusion of cover crops protects the soil surface from erosion and contributes to organic matter buildup, reinforcing the soil’s natural resilience.

In recent years, there has also been growing recognition of the role played by biological and enzymatic inputs in enhancing soil health. These inputs stimulate beneficial microbial activity, improve nutrient availability, and increase nutrient use efficiency. By reducing dependence on excessive chemical fertilisers, they offer a pathway toward more sustainable and environmentally responsible farming systems. The transition to sustainable agriculture is not merely a technical shift – it is a collective responsibility.

Farmers, scientists, industry stakeholders, and policymakers must work in tandem to promote awareness and facilitate the adoption of practices that conserve soil and water resources. The long-term sustainability of agriculture depends on decisions made today, at both the field and policy level. As we mark World Earth Day, the message is clear: the future of agriculture is inseparable from the health of our soil and the stewardship of our water resources. A fertile, living soil is not just the foundation of productive farming – it is the cornerstone of ecological balance and food security. Protecting it is not an option; it is an obligation we owe to generations to come.

(The writer is Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech.)

The administration of Donald Trump has extended its ceasefire with Iran without fixing any deadline for talks, even as Washington continues to enforce a stringent naval blockade and intensify economic pressure on Tehran.

The move signals a calibrated strategy from the White House, combining a pause in direct military action with sustained financial and maritime restrictions, keeping negotiations alive while maintaining leverage over Iran’s already strained economy.

US extends ceasefire but maintains economic offensive

Washington said it is pursuing a dual-track approach, halting kinetic operations while escalating economic measures. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the decision as a tactical extension aimed at keeping diplomatic options open without easing pressure.

“President Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire… and generously offering a bit of flexibility to a regime who has been completely tarnished because of Operation Epic Fury,” she said during a briefing on Wednesday (local time).

Leavitt underlined that the ceasefire does not imply a softening of Washington’s stance. “There’s a ceasefire with the military and kinetic strikes, but Operation Economic Fury continues, and the effective and successful naval blockade continues as well,” she said.

Blockade hits Iran’s economy, US claims

According to the White House, the naval blockade is significantly hurting Iran’s economy. Leavitt said Tehran is struggling to sustain oil exports and financial flows under the restrictions.

“We are completely strangling their economy through this blockade… they’re losing $500 million a day,” she said, pointing to the scale of economic disruption.

No deadline for talks, says White House

Despite the ongoing pressure, the administration has refrained from announcing any fixed timeline for negotiations. Leavitt dismissed speculation of a short window for talks.

“The President has not set a firm deadline… ultimately, the timeline will be dictated by the commander in chief,” she said.

When asked if the ceasefire or blockade could continue indefinitely, she avoided specifics, stating that the course of action would depend on what the President considers to be in the US national interest.

Internal divisions in Iran complicate negotiations

The White House indicated that divisions within Iran’s leadership are affecting the pace of negotiations. Leavitt pointed to differences between competing factions in Tehran.

“There’s obviously a lot of internal division… a battle between the pragmatists and the hardliners,” she said, adding that Washington is awaiting a “unified response” from Iran.

She also noted inconsistencies in Iran’s communication. “What they say publicly is much different than what they concede to the United States… privately,” she said.

US officials have already held direct engagements with Iranian representatives, but uncertainty remains over who ultimately makes decisions within the Iranian system.

US says it holds the advantage

Defending the administration’s approach, Leavitt said Washington remains in a stronger position in the standoff.

“The cards are in President Trump’s hands right now… Iran is in a very weak position,” she said, adding that US messaging has remained consistent during the crisis.

“The United States and President Trump have been very clear in our demands and our red lines,” she said.

Separately, Leavitt said the administration is tracking developments in the aviation sector amid reports of a possible bailout for Spirit Airlines, but did not share further details.

At a time of profound shifts in global geopolitical and geo – economics landscape, His Excellency Lee Jae Myung, President of the Republic of Korea, paid a highly successful State Visit to India from 19 to 21 April 2026, signalling the dawn of a new phase in the Korea-India Special Strategic Partnership. He was accompanied by one of the largest-ever business delegations – comprising over 200 representatives of leading Korean companies, including the CEOs of Samsung, Hyundai, LG and POSCO.

The delegation also included three cabinet Ministers, overseeing key portfolios of Finance & Economy and Science & Technology. The she er size and distinguishe d composition of the presidential delegation alone underlines the importance Korea attaches to this crucial partnership with India, one of the most consequential relationships of the 21st century. The visit took place at a critical juncture in global affairs, when the familiar contours of the global political and economic order are undergoing profound transformation. With supply chains being reconfigured and new economic alignments emerging, fresh avenues for cooperation are opening up.

India’s global stature today is markedly different from what it once was. Its standing as a rising global economic and strategic power continues to grow and its economy is firmly on course to become the world’s third largest economy very soon. At the same time, Korea continues to attract global attention through its K-wave soft power as well as its strengths in supply chains of world’s most critical industries such as semiconductors and shipbuilding. Taken together, these factors create a strong synergy for expanded cooperation.

Simply put, at a time of global flux, the two partners with huge potential for future cooperation have come together to harness their complementarities and convergences and to produce tangible outcomes for their respective peoples and the world at large. At the summit meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the two leaders unveiled the ‘Joint Strategic Vision for the Korea-India Special Strategic Partnership’, outlining an ambitious and action-oriented roadmap to usher in a new era of Korea-India Partnership 2.0 in the coming years.

At the luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Modi, both leaders together with leading business CEOs reaffirmed their strong desires to deepen and widen industrial ties. They emphasized the importance of placing Korea’s industrial and technological strengths at the heart of India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, while also recognising the significant benefits Korean businesses can derive from India’s scale, skilled talent pool, advanced IT ecosystem, and vast market opportunities. As many as 15 MoUs between the two governments and 20 business MoUs and 14 contracts were concluded, underscoring the unprecedented scale of outcomes from the visit.

Among the key highlights was POSCO’s joint venture with JSW Steel to set up a 6 MMT integrated steel plant in Odisha. These agreements span a wide and strategic range of sectors, including trade, industry, technology, science, culture, sports, and people-to-people exchanges. The four major takeaways from the President Lee’s visit can be summed up as follows: First, under the dynamic stewardship and enthusiastic backing of both leaders, the two countries are set to usher in the second wave of Korean investment in India.

While the first wave was led by automotive and electronics giants such as Hyundai, Samsung, and LG, which have now become household names across the country, the second phase is set to expand into new and strategic sectors, including shipbuilding, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and MSMEs. In this context, both leaders announced an ambitious and comprehensive maritime partnership vision aimed at embedding Korea’s shipbuilding expertise into India’s maritime future. In parallel, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), concluded in 2010, will be upgraded to best serve businesses in a rapidly evolving global economic landscape, by incorporating new focus areas including, digital trade, supply chain collaboration and the green economy.

A new Ministerial Industrial Cooperation Committee has been established to facilitate and strengthen expanded industrial cooperation, ensuring mutual and strategic benefits for both sides. Second, both governments are committed to ensuring that expanded industrial ties will lead to closer cooperation in strategic sectors, areas typically reserved for trusted strategic partners, including nuclear energy, space, artificial intelligence, defence, and green technologies. Building on successful precedents such as the K-9 howitzer project, Korea and India, by leveraging their complementary strengths, can emerge as joint leaders in these critical and emerging domains that will shape and define the future.

Third, both sides have agreed to further expand institutionalised high-level exchanges and strengthen people-to-people ties. Since the inauguration of the new Korean administration in June last year, President Lee and Prime Minister Modi have met twice – on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada and the G20 Summit in South Africa. n the first three months of this year alone, we have welcomed more than a dozen high-level Korean delegations to Delhi, including those led by the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and the Deputy Prime Minister. These sustained high-level engagements naturally culminated in this week’s Presidential State Visit.

As part of the outcomes of the summit, both sides agreed to exchange at least five more ministerial visits before the end of this year, including the visit of India’s Defence Minister to Korea next month. Beyond official engagements, both sides have also committed to deepening academic cooperation, expanding student exchanges and further promoting cultural linkages and tourism. Thanks to the enhanced collaboration between two financial authorities, India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will b e made interoperable in Korea, facilitating ease of travel and strengthen people-to-people connections. Finally, both sides have decided to broaden cooperation at the regional and global levels. Both countries share vibrant democracies, dynamic market economies, respect for human rights and a firm belief in peaceful coexistence.

They also face common global challenges, including terrorism, climate change, maritime piracy, and o ther transnational threats. In addressing these challenges, the two sides will draw on their shared experiences and complementary strengths to work together for a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region and the world. Korea and India established diplomatic ties in 1973.

In a little over five decades, bilateral relations have blossomed from modest beginnings into a robust Special Strategic Partnership With the unveiling of the Joint Strategic Vision for the Korea-India Special Strategic Partnership during the State Visit and with a renewed political will and a shared commitment across all stakeholders to unlocking the full potential of bilateral ties, Korea and India are now stepping into Partnership 2.0, an ambitious new phase to deepen, broaden and diversify cooperation, for the mutual benefit of the two countries, the region and indeed the world.

(The writer is Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India.)

India’s metro rail expansion is often presented as a symbol of arrival ~ a visual shorthand for modernity, efficiency, and global ambition. From Delhi to Bengaluru and Mumbai, sleek stations and air-conditioned coaches signal a country investing in its urban future. Yet beneath this infrastructural confidence lies a quieter, more troubling reality: India’s metros are being built faster than they are being meaningfully used. The problem is not simply one of execution but of conception.

An urban transport system doesn’t succeed because it exists; it does when it aligns with how people live and move. In India, that alignment remains weak. Systems like the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation are often cited as success stories, but even there, headline ridership numbers obscure methodological quirks and uneven usage patterns. Elsewhere, the gap between projected and actual ridership is not marginal, it is structural. At the heart of the issue is a persistent policy bias: the belief that large-scale infrastructure can, by itself, reshape commuter behaviour.

This assumption overlooks a fundamental constraint of Indian cities ~ income sensitivity. For millions of urban workers, daily travel decisions are dictated less by speed or comfort than by cost. When a metro journey consumes a disproportionate share of daily earnings, the system effectively excludes the population it is meant to serve. This is where comparisons with systems like the London Underground become instructive. London’s network, despite being expensive, is deeply embedded within a broader ecosystem of subsidies, integrated ticketing, and dense last-mile connectivity. It works not because it is technologically superior, but because it is systemically coherent. India, by contrast, has prioritised capital expenditure over operational integration.

The consequences of this imbalance are visible in the everyday commuter experience. A metro ride rarely begins or ends at a station. It involves walking through poorly designed roads, waiting for unreliable feeder services, or negotiating fragmented transport networks run by multiple agencies. In such a context, the metro becomes an isolated solution to what is fundamentally a networked problem. There is also a political dimension to this expansion. Metro projects are highly visible, ribbon-cutting-friendly investments. They signal governance and progress in ways that incremental improvements to bus systems or pedestrian infrastructure do not.

The scale of expansion has been unprecedented ~ but visibility has often outpaced viability. None of this suggests that metros are unnecessary. On the contrary, as congestion and pollution intensify, they will become indispensable. But their success will depend less on how many kilometres are built and more on how seamlessly they are integrated into the urban fabric. India’s metro story, then, is not a failure of ambition. It is a failure of alignment. Until planning shifts from infrastructure as spectacle to mobility as a lived experience, the trains may continue to run ~ but not nearly full enough.

India is once again debating numbers ~ how many Members of Parliament it should have, how many seats each state deserves, and whether expanding legislatures will improve democracy. But beneath this arithmetic lies a more uncomfortable question: does increasing the number of elected representatives make citizens feel better represented? Across both Parliament and state assemblies, the answer is far from clear.

The logic behind expansion appears intuitive. A larger population should mean more MPs in the Lok Sabha and more MLAs in state legislatures. Smaller constituencies, in theory, bring representatives closer to the people. Yet the lived reality of governance suggests that representation in India is not constrained by numbers alone. It is constrained by function. Over time, decision-making has become increasingly centralised. Key policy choices are often shaped by a narrow executive core, with legislatures playing a limited role in altering outcomes. Parliamentary debates rarely shift the direction of major legislation, and disruptions frequently replace deliberation.

At the state level, legislative assemblies face similar constraints, with chief ministers and small advisory circles exercising disproportionate influence. In such a system, the addition of more MPs or MLAs risks expanding the structure without strengthening its purpose. Expanding legislatures without addressing their functional limitations may produce unintended consequences. More seats can mean higher campaign expenditure, increased pressure to mobilise financial resources, and a broader distribution of political patronage. This arithmetic has consequences beyond the legislature. Under current constitutional limits, the size of the Union Council of Ministers is capped at 15 per cent of the Lok Sabha’s strength, with a similar rule in the states.

If the Lok Sabha expands to around 850 seats, the Union ministry could grow from roughly 81 members to nearly 128. A comparable expansion would follow in the states as assemblies grow. This is not a trivial change. It enlarges the pool of ministerial positions ~ the most powerful form of political reward ~ without necessarily improving governance. Finally, there is the additional cost of the MPs and MLAs themselves, their salaries, perquisites, et al. At the same time, the symbolic value of representation continues to grow. Policies such as reservations seek to make legislatures more inclusive.

This is an important democratic objective. But inclusion within a system that lacks effective voice risks becoming largely symbolic. Representation on paper does not automatically translate into influence in practice. What emerges is a paradox. India is attempting to deepen democracy by expanding representation, even as the institutions through which representation operates appear constrained.

This raises a more fundamental question. Should the priority be to increase the number of elected representatives, or to strengthen the role they play? Without meaningful legislative participation ~ through robust debate, empowered committees, and genuine oversight ~ numerical expansion may do little to enhance democratic outcomes. The debate over seats in Parliament and assemblies is therefore only part of the story. The deeper challenge lies in restoring the link between representation and decision-making. Until that connection is rebuilt, adding more MPs or MLAs will only expand political patronage without deepening accountability.

Tamil Nadu Election 2026 LIVE: The voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 was held on Thursday. The voting across all the 234 constituencies began at 7 am in the morning and concluded at 6 pm, with a record 84.73 per cent turnout.

The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, which will reveal who will run the state next. The current Assembly term ends on May 10.

DMK’s “Rising Sun” vs AIADMK’s “Two Leaves” comeback push

At the centre of this election is the familiar face-off between the two Dravidian giants. The ruling DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance is hoping to hold on to power with its “Rising Sun” symbol shining again in 2026. On the other side, the AIADMK, under the “Two Leaves” banner, is trying to stage a comeback after losing ground in the last election.

The DMK camp, led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, has projected confidence throughout the campaign. Stalin himself is contesting from Kolathur in Chennai, a constituency closely watched as a symbol of his political strength. His son and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is also in the race from Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni.

In response, AIADMK chief and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami is contesting from Edappadi in Salem district.

Vijay’s TVK enters the race

One of the biggest talking points of this election is the entry of actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). For the first time, Vijay is testing his political strength on a full scale.

Also Read: Is the ‘Vijay factor’ about to turn the DMK vs AIADMK two-horse race into a dramatic three-cornered showdown?

What has surprised many is the ambition of his debut move. TVK has fielded candidates in all 234 constituencies across Tamil Nadu, showing that it is not playing safe or limited. Vijay himself is contesting from two seats: Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli East.

With 4,023 candidates, multiple alliances, and a new political entrant shaking things up, this election is far from simple.

The electoral sky over battleground Bengal is thick with the dust raised by the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, occasionally punctuated by politics of cultural belonging, with candidates campaigning with fish in hand to prove their Bengali identity. Lost in this cacophony is any meaningful discussion about the state’s developmental trajectory ~ from immediate economic concerns to long-term structural challenges arising from demographic change and urbanisation.

Employment generation remains the most pressing concern for Bengal’s youth. On the surface, the numbers appear reassuring: the state’s unemployment rate, at 2.2 per cent is below the national average of 3.2 per cent, as per NITI Aayog’s Macro and Fiscal Policy Landscape Report 2025; and Kolkata remains the country’s third-largest urban economy. Yet these figures mask deeper structural issues. Bengal’s per capita Net State Domestic Product at Rs 1,63,467 ~ remains significantly below that of states like Telengana (Rs 3,87,623) and Maharashtra (3,09,340) as per RBI data.

Over the past three decades, slower growth in manufacturing and high-value services compared to southern and western states has steadily pushed young people to migrate in search of opportunities. The challenge, therefore, is not merely job creation but structural transformation ~ towards industries that can sustain growth and retain skilled youth. Interestingly, despite political polarisation, there is a remarkable convergence across the manifestos of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the BJP, and the CPI(M)-led Left Front. All three emphasise logistics-led growth and port-based development as central pillars of Bengal’s future economy.

The TMC manifesto outlines an ambitious roadmap: positioning Bengal as India’s third-largest economy within a decade and building a Rs 40 lakh crore economy within five years. It proposes double-digit growth, a USD 30 billion logistics hub by 2031, five multimodal logistics parks, and industrial corridors from Raghunathpur-Tajpur to Dankuni-Kalyani and Kharagpur-Morgram, aiming to generate 10 lakh jobs. The BJP focuses on improving the investment climate through ease of doing business and single-window clearances. It proposes deep-sea ports at Tajpur and Kulpi, a blue economy hub at Haldia, four industrial parks including one at Singur.

Connectivity projects include a north–south highway from Darjeeling to the Sunderbans; airports at Purulia, Balurghat, and Cooch Behar; and revival of stalled railway projects. The party promises employment and self-help opportunities for one crore people over five years, though without specifying sectoral pathways. The Left Front manifesto foregrounds employment more explicitly, promising 40 lakh permanent jobs ~ 25 lakh in industry and logistics services and 15 lakh technology-based jobs. It proposes an international air cargo and aero-logistics hub in Durgapur, expanded cold storage and warehousing networks, and efforts to bring industries back to the state.

Another area of convergence is unemployment assistance. The TMC proposes Rs1,500 per month under the Yuva Sathi scheme for educated unemployed youth aged 21–40. The Left Front promises Rs 2,000, while the BJP proposes Rs 3,000. This emphasis on income support underscores the political centrality of youth employment, but risks reducing structural economic challenges to competitive welfarism. What is striking, however, is that these economic visions largely overlook Bengal’s changing demographic reality. The state has entered a low-fertility, late demographic transition phase with significant economic implications.

According to Sample Registration Survey data, Bengal’s Total Fertility Rate declined by 17.6 per cent between 2013 and 2023 – from 1.7 to about 1.3 – well below the national average of 1.9 and far below replacement level. Bengal’s urban TFR is the lowest in the country, while its rural TFR is the second lowest. Higher female literacy ~ among the highest for women aged 15-49 in India ~ appears to be a key driver. These shifts will reshape the economy. A slower-growing working-age population could create labour shortages in agriculture, construction, and other labour-intensive sectors, while ageing will increase demand for healthcare, assisted living, and social support.

This transition requires a shift towards skill-intensive industries, productivity-enhancing technologies, and services catering to older populations, alongside investments in urban care infrastructure. Among the manifestos, the Left Front addresses this most explicitly, proposing geriatric care homes in every subdivision, 24×7 helplines, municipal care centres, and support systems in public institutions. The TMC proposes gradual expansion of the old age pension scheme, while the BJP does not outline specific ageing-related interventions.

A comprehensive strategy linking ageing, labour markets, and civic infrastructure remains largely absent. The second megatrend is urbanisation. With about 37 per cent of the population already living in urban areas ~ that is above the national average of 35 per cent – Bengal is approaching an urban future. By early 2040s the state is likely to become predominantly urban. This transition is driven partly by structural changes in the rural economy. As occupational patterns shift away from agriculture, many large villages are acquiring urban characteristics and are classified as census towns. In 2011, West Bengal recorded 834 such settlements ~ the highest in India. Yet this transformation is largely unplanned.

Conversion of fertile agricultural land, loss of waterbodies, and fragmented growth are intensifying environmental stress. The challenge is particularly acute given Bengal’s population density of 1,106 persons per sq. km., far above the national average of 415, making land a scarce resource that must be optimised. Urbanisation and economic development are deeply intertwined, especially in a logistics- and port-centric strategy. Ports, industrial corridors, and multimodal logistics parks depend on nearby cities providing labour, housing, warehousing, transport, and business services. Without planned urbanisation, such investments risk creating congested, poorly serviced growth nodes that undermine efficiency.

The TMC proposes expanding urban local bodies through geographical reorganisation ~ an overdue step to address chaotic urbanisation. It also plans to develop 25 towns as model cities under Mission Mahanagar, build a cultural city in Baruipur, expand housing, and provide piped water to all households. The BJP proposes a comprehensive vision for Kolkata focusing on traffic, drainage, and encroachments, along with tourism-led development, riverfront revitalisation, and four modern cities, though without detailing their spatial rationale. The Left Front places greater emphasis on municipal governance and social infrastructure, proposing affordable housing, scientific vending zones, slum upgrading without eviction, reserving 25 per cent of municipal budgets for slums, universal piped water supply, improved public transport, and transparent contracting systems.

Taken together, these proposals acknowledge the importance of urban development, but in a business-as-usual manner. As Bengal moves toward an urban future, the central challenge is not merely building new towns, but managing land, infrastructure, and governance in a way that aligns urban growth with economic transformation and environmental sustainability. Bengal has confronted structural challenges before ~ and responded with vision. Faced with post-Partition refugee influx and the need for rapid industrialisation the then Chief Minister Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy initiated planned development of Durgapur, Kalyani, and Haldia, alongside a strategy to reduce population pressure on Kolkata. Economic strategy and urban planning were integrated within a long-term development vision. That experience offers an important lesson.

Bengal’s future cannot be built through fragmented announcements or welfare-driven competition. It requires a coherent strategy linking industrial growth, demographic transition, and urban development. Logistics hubs need functioning cities; employment generation requires skilled labour and liveable urban environments; and an ageing population needs care infrastructure embedded within urban systems. Without a vision that aligns economic strategy with demographic change and planned urbanisation, the state risks incremental drift rather than structural progress.

The writer is Professor, Urban Management and Governance, School of Human Settlements, XIM University ( formerly Xavier Institute of Management), Bhubaneswar

West Bengal is voting. Phase 1 of the 2026 Assembly election got underway at 7 am on Thursday, with booths open across 152 constituencies. Polling runs until 6 pm.

The mood across the state is charged. This is essentially a two-horse race between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress, gunning for a historic fourth straight term, and a BJP that has been working hard to finally break through in Bengal.

This live blog will track everything as the day unfolds, such as turnout trends, ground reports, political reactions, and every development that matters.

West Bengal election 2026: LIVE UPDATES

Springdales School, Dhaula Kuan, has once again demonstrated its “commitment to innovation and future-ready education” with an outstanding performance at the prestigious Delhi AI Grind 2026–27, a city-wide initiative organised by the Department of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi.

The team comprising Saion Gupta, Khwahish Sethi, Abhimanyu Gupta, and Hridik Sabharwal emerged among the district-level winners.

Their project, “SENSE”, an AI-powered system for monitoring air and water quality, earned them a place among the top 60 teams in Delhi.

They will now advance to the state-level stage, where they will receive specialised mentorship and technical support to further develop their innovation.

The six-month-long initiative, aimed at fostering awareness and application of Artificial Intelligence, saw enthusiastic participation from students through quizzes, prototyping, exhibitions, and a special assembly.

Guided by Mr. Aparojito Bose, Administrative Manager, along with teacher mentors, the programme nurtured curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking amongst the young innovators..

The achievement brings pride to the institution and highlights the vital role of young innovators in building a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways on Wednesday dismissed reports claiming that an India-linked vessel fell victim to cyber criminals or extortion in West Asian waters..

During an inter-ministerial briefing, Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal said that rumours circulating about the vessel Sanmar Herald are false.

“News is spreading about the reported payment by the captain of the vessel Sanmar Herald in USD to persons claiming to represent the IRGC Navy to grant right of passage and falling victim to cyber criminals,” Mangal said.

“We spoke with the owner of the vessel, and he confirmed that it is fake news and no such incident has happened,” he added.

He further stated that the government is continuously coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions, and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations. The Ministry confirmed that no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported in the last 24 hours.

“No incident involving Indian flag vessels has been reported in the last 24 hours, and our seafarers are safe in the Persian Gulf region,” he said.

However, a Gujarat-bound and Liberia-flagged vessel was seized by the IRGC Navy while attempting to sail through the Strait of Hormuz.

There are currently 14 vessels (13 Indian-flagged and one Indian-owned) in the Persian Gulf region, with 10 having already transitioned safely out of the area.

He said, “At present, 13 Indian flagged vessels plus one Indian-owned vessel, i.e. a total of 14 vessels are there in the Persian Gulf region, of which a total of 10 vessels have passed from the Persian Gulf to this side.”

“The safety and security of Indian seafarers remains the top priority. We are monitoring the situation continuously and are committed to extending all possible help,” Mangal added.

The official further confirmed that Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima is expected to dock in Mumbai this evening. The vessel, carrying 31 Indian seafarers, successfully crossed the region on March 18 and is completing its journey home without incident.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday led a roadshow from the town’s iconic Curzon Gate to Rajbati, accompanied by BJP’s Bardhaman Dakshin candidate Moumita Biswas Mishra and Bardhaman Uttar candidate Sanjay Das.

“BJP will come to power in the state with 200 seats. In the first phase, we will win 90 per cent of the seats. The party will secure both Bardhaman Uttar and Bardhaman Dakshin,” Sarma said.

Popularly known as ‘Mama’ in Assam, Sarma arrived in Burdwan in the afternoon to campaign for the two candidates. The roadshow passed through BC Road and Baro Bazar in the evening, with people lining both sides of the route to greet him. Many offered cold drinks, which he accepted, while women waved from balconies and rooftops as the procession moved along.

Sarma also criticised poll strategist agency IPAC, which is working for the Trinamul Congress. “IPAC is a goon, a mawali. Congress, TMC and BJP are political parties ~ where does IPAC come from? It is not a political organisation. It facilitates syndicates and extortion in Bengal. The court’s remarks on IPAC are justified. Mamata Banerjee has diminished the dignity of the Chief Minister’s post by visiting the IPAC office. The BJP will win over 200 seats in West Bengal,” he said.

Meanwhile, film actress Shrabanti Chatterjee took part in a roadshow in support of Trinamul Congress candidate Khokon Das for Bardhaman Dakshin. The procession moved from Kalibazar to the police lines via Ichhlabad.

Union home minister Amit Shah today addressed the ‘Vijay Sankalp Sabha’ at Balikukhari ground in Dadpur, Hooghly, in support of BJP candidates Swaraj Ghosh (Saptagram) and Barnali Das (Dhanekhali).

During his speech, he launched a broad attack on the Trinamul Congress and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, raising multiple issues.

Speaking on alleged infiltration, Shah said, “It is time to say goodbye to ‘Didi’. She is on her way out, and ‘Padma’ (the lotus) is on its way in.” He claimed that if the BJP comes to power, infiltrators would be identified and expelled, alleging that infiltration in border areas is increasing and adversely affecting local residents.

On women’s safety, Shah criticised the Trinamul Congress over the Sandeshkhali incident, stating that if the BJP forms the government, women would be able to move freely and safely, even at night. He also promised 33 per cent reservation for women in jobs.

Shah made announcements in the transport sector, stating that women would be allowed to travel free of cost on government buses from Gangasagar to Darjeeling if the BJP comes to power. He also promised employment opportunities for one lakh youth every year.

On extremism, Shah said that earlier governments had allegedly patronised extremist elements, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the country is now largely free from extremism.

Referring to the construction of the Ram temple, he said that despite opposition from various parties over the years, the project was completed during the Modi government’s tenure. He added that incidents similar to the Babri Masjid issue would not be allowed in Bengal.

Shah also spoke about stopping what he termed ‘love jihad’ and ‘land jihad’. Overall, the BJP used the meeting to make several promises while strongly criticising the Trinamul Congress during the rally in Dadpur.