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AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal seeks early oath date for his MLA swearing-in ceremony ahead of Hajj

AIUDF President Badruddin Ajmal has requested the Assam Assembly Speaker for a convenient date to take his oath as an MLA. He is scheduled to depart for Hajj pilgrimage on May 21, the same day the assembly session begins. His party, AIUDF, has announced its opposition to the Uniform Civil Code bill.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 10:50 pm

CM Vijay expresses solidarity with global Tamil diaspora on Mullivaikkal Remembrance Day

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay expressed solidarity with the global Tamil diaspora on Mullivaikkal Remembrance Day, pledging continued support for their rights. Observed annually on May 18, the day marks the bloody conclusion of the Sri Lankan Civil War in 2009, a period that saw immense civilian suffering and wartime atrocities.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 10:37 pm

BRS trying to defame BJP over Bandi Bageeraths POCSO case: Ramchander Rao

Hyderabad: Telangana BJP president N Ramchander Rao on Monday, May 18, alleged that the BRS was trying to defame the saffron party over the POCSO case registered against the son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar. Addressing a meeting of party leaders and workers here, he said the BJP would take action against Bandi Sanjay Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 May 2026 10:34 pm

Twisha death case: CCTV shows her heading to terrace; husband, others attempting CPR later

A chilling CCTV video shows Twisha Sharma ascending to her terrace shortly before her death in Bhopal. Her husband, Samarth Singh, is absconding, with a reward offered. The case has taken a turn as the mother-in-law, a retired judge, claims Twisha had psychiatric issues and substance abuse problems, contradicting dowry harassment allegations.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 9:23 pm

Musi riverfront development project is a hydraulic bomb: Hyderabad activists

Hyderabad: The Save Musi Movement (SMM) has described the Telangana governments official river embankment blueprint as a hydraulic bomb, not intended to save the river, but to build a multi-billion real-estate corridor disguised as a park. Addressing the media in Hyderabad on Monday, May 18, the Save Musi Movement activists demanded an immediate freezing all Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 May 2026 9:03 pm

Ebola outbreak: India could extend medical support to affected regions, suggests Soumya Swaminathan

The WHO had declared the Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 9:02 pm

Twisha death case: Mother-in-law claims marijuana use during pregnancy, says parents pushed her into glamour world

Noida woman Twisha Sharma was found dead at her marital home in Bhopal, with her mother-in-law alleging psychiatric issues and drug use. Twisha's family claims dowry harassment and murder, refusing the body and demanding a second post-mortem. Police are investigating and have announced a reward for her absconding husband.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 8:20 pm

700 cr worth of underworld don Dawood associate Iqbal Mirchis assets attached by ED

Mirchi had escaped to London to avoid being caught by the Indian law enforcement agencies for his involvement in the 1993 blast case.

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 8:16 pm

Key accused in Bengal CM Suvendu aide's murder arrested in UP's Muzaffarnagar

On May 11, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing Rath's murder had arrested three people before widening its probe across multiple states. The cops suspected that hired sharpshooters were brought in from outside West Bengal to carry out the killing with military-style precision. A key breakthrough came after investigators traced a UPI payment made at the Nivedita Setu toll plaza on May 6.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 8:00 pm

West Bengal Cabinet approves 7th Pay Commission, Rs 3000 for women & other welfare schemes

The West Bengal cabinet has approved the 7th Pay Commission for state government employees. A new scheme, Annapurna Bhandar, will provide Rs 3,000 monthly to women. Women already receiving Lakshmir Bhandar will be automatically included. New applicants can apply soon. Additionally, all women will receive free travel on state buses starting June 1.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 7:25 pm

'Lowered dignity of Parliament': Privilege motion notice against Dharmendra Pradhan for remarks on NEET-2026 paper leak

Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan may have to face privilege proceedings in Rajya Sabha. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh submitted a notice, accusing Pradhan of lowering Parliament's dignity with remarks about a parliamentary committee post the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Ramesh stated the minister's comments showed contempt for Parliament and its committees.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 7:17 pm

Kavitha unveils TRS flag pedestal model for flag festival in Telangana

Hyderabad: Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) founder Kalvakuntla Kavitha on Monday, May 18, unveiled the model pedestal for the party flag, which will be hoisted across Telangana from May 20 for a month-long campaign. The pedestal, designed in yellow with a curved-top structure resembling a traditional milestone, features the map of Telangana in navy blue. The Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 May 2026 7:15 pm

Kerala Inc extends support to new Govt; calls for economic reforms

V.P.Nandakumar, chairman, FICCI, Kerala State Council pointed out that the State is currently navigating significant challenges and various bold decisive decisions have to be taken

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 6:23 pm

Suvendu govt ends religion-based schemes in Bengal, scraps state OBC list

The BJP government has also done away with the exisiting state OBC list in accordance with the Calcutta high court judgement and would set up a panel to decide quota eligibility. Last year on July 28, however, the CJI-led bench of the Supreme Court had vacated high court's stay on implementation of the new OBC list that had a total of 140 sub-groups under OBC-A and OBC-B categories, including 80 belonging to the Muslim community.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 4:53 pm

BJP MP compares Revanth Reddy to Suvendu Adhikari, who switched from Congress

Hyderabad:Nizamabad Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Arvind Dharmapuri on Monday, May 18, distanced himself from Prime Minister Narendra Modis widely discussed mere se jodo remark directed at Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, saying he was just a small karyakarta in the party and was not aware of any link between the two leaders. I dont Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 May 2026 4:36 pm

Fatalism of First Ram, Then Bam: Bengals Left Can't Return by Enabling BJP

The First Ram, Then Bam idea is a political self-sabotage dressed up as tactical realism.

The Quint 18 May 2026 4:03 pm

Kerala Cabinet announces free womens bus travel, 3,000 hike for ASHA workers

Cabinet decides to bring a white paper on the financial condition of the state

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 3:53 pm

AAP leader Singla arrested: Kejriwal claims he refused BJP offer, alleges political pressure

Aam Aadmi Party leader Deepak Singla has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case. AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the arrest is linked to Singlas refusal to join the Bharatiya Janata Party. He also praised Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora, who has been arrested in a GST fraud case, describing both leaders as brave and patriotic amid escalating political tensions.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 3:51 pm

Park Circus violence: Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari warns of strict action, says govt will not tolerate vandalism

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a strict zero-tolerance policy against vandalism, stating that the government will take firm legal action against those involved in attacking police personnel or damaging public property. The warning comes in the aftermath of violent protests reported in Kolkatas Park Circus area.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 3:32 pm

Kerala CM Satheesan forms SIT to probe 2023 attacks on Congress workers during Left regime

A fierce political faceoff had ensued three years back during the Left regime when Congress workers were thrashed for waving black flags at Vijayan's motorcade, leading to an intense war of words between two rival factions in the coastal state. Calling Vijayan Kerala's most cruel home minister, senior Congress leader MM Hassan had alleged that Youth Congress protesters were beaten up for waving black flags at the CM's motorcade.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 3:12 pm

DMK chief M K Stalin slams TVK, says it did no field work and won elections using social media

DMK President M K Stalin accused the ruling TVK of relying heavily on social media influence to win the recent Assembly elections, alleging that the party failed to carry out traditional fieldwork. He highlighted DMKs own organisational efforts and noted the growing impact of social media on voters and families. Stalin also indicated that the DMK plans to strengthen its strategy to counter such digital campaigning in future elections.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 3:05 pm

AAP leader Deepak Singla arrested by ED in alleged bank fraud case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday arrested Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Deepak Singla in connection with an alleged bank fraud case, officials said.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 2:52 pm

Delhi HC grants interim bail to Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid for father's funeral

Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid has been granted interim bail by the Delhi High Court until June 2 following the death of his father. Currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with terror-funding charges, Rashid will be escorted by police during his temporary release. The relief allows him to attend his fathers funeral and related ceremonies.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 2:12 pm

Congress leadership 'capitulated' to demands of Muslim League, Jamaat-e-Islami in Kerala: BJP

The BJP has criticized the Congress following V D Satheesan's oath as Kerala Chief Minister. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla alleged the Congress has surrendered to Islamist groups like the IUML and Jamaat-e-Islami. He claimed the decision was made under pressure for vote-bank politics. Poonawalla stated the Muslim League effectively runs the government, accusing Congress of compromising with radicals.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 2:04 pm

Bengal's BJP govt to implement 7th Pay Commission, free travel & Annapurna Bhandar for women

West Bengal's new BJP government, under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has approved the 7th Pay Commission for state employees to bridge the pay gap with central staff. The cabinet also decided to halt religion-based incentive schemes and introduce free bus travel for women from June 1, alongside the Annapurna Bhandar scheme providing monthly cash to eligible women.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 1:45 pm

West Bengal: TMC MLA Dilip Mondal's son held with firearms in Bengal

Police have arrested Arghya Mondal, son of TMC MLA Dilip Mondal, and five others. They were apprehended in Bakkhali-Fraserganj with firearms. Two pistols and six mobile phones were seized. Arghya Mondal also faces allegations of threatening BJP workers. The MLA himself is currently absconding.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 1:34 pm

Ebola declared a public health emergency, ahead of World Health Assembly starting today

The UN Health agency also clarified that the outbreak did not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 1:30 pm

New Kerala government confronts fiscal crisis and rising welfare burden

With public debt nearing 3.57 lakh crore, the administration faces the difficult task of restoring financial discipline, generating jobs, managing coalition dynamics and funding ambitious Indira Guarantees without worsening the States financial condition

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 1:23 pm

VD Satheesan govt: Mix of experienced and new faces

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress leader VD Satheesan was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Kerala on Monday, May 18, after leading the party-led UDF to a strong win in the Assembly elections. Along with him, 20 ministers took oath at a packed Central Stadium, with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administering the ceremony. The new Cabinet brings Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 May 2026 1:17 pm

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge slams Modi govt, says it failed to foresee inflation and price rise

Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the government for delaying price hikes until after assembly elections, alleging that economic realities were hidden from the public. He pointed to recent increases in CNG, petrol, and diesel prices, and accused the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of lacking foresight amid rising inflation.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 1:16 pm

Captain still holding controls, mother clutching child: Man who entered Air India crash morgue recounts chilling scenes

Chilling details emerge from the Air India AI-171 crash mortuary, with a witness describing horrific scenes. The captain's body was found seated, still clutching the controls, suggesting a desperate attempt to save the aircraft. Investigations into pilot error versus technical failure continue, with conflicting timelines and CCTV footage raising new questions.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 12:57 pm

Kerala swearing-in: Two ministers opt for solemn affirmation, Muraleedharan takes oath in English

Kerala's new government has been sworn in. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath to Chief Minister V D Satheesan and 20 ministers. Two ministers chose to affirm their commitment instead of swearing in God's name. The United Democratic Front secured a significant victory in the recent assembly elections.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 12:57 pm

VD Satheesan: Lawyer, debater and face of Congress comeback in Kerala

Once Opposition leader, VD will now lead Kerala after a decade-long wait

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 12:27 pm

Robert Vadra withdraws in Delhi HC plea against trial court summons in Haryana land deal case

NEW DELHI, May 18:Businessman Robert Vadra on Monday unconditionally withdrew in the Delhi High Court his petition challenging a trial court order that summoned him in a money laundering case linked to a land deal in Haryanas Shikohpur. Learned counsel for the petitioner, at the very outset, submits that as per his instructions, the petitioner is not interested in pursuing the present petition and they seek to withdraw the same unconditionally, Justice Manoj Jain recorded in the order. The counsel [] The post Robert Vadra withdraws in Delhi HC plea against trial court summons in Haryana land deal case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 18 May 2026 12:26 pm

VD Satheesan sworn in as Kerala CM as UDF returns to power after a decade

Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office to Satheesan at a grand ceremony held at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. A 20-member Cabinet was also sworn in alongside the new Chief Minister.

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 12:09 pm

ECI announces polls to 16 seats of Maharashtra Legislative Council on June 18

The Election Commission of India on Monday announced elections to 16 seats in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, with voting scheduled for June 18. The nomination process will close on June 1, while candidates may withdraw their nominations until June 4, according to the notification.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 12:04 pm

VD Satheesan sworn in as Kerala Chief Minister

Besides Satheesan, his 20-member Cabinet will also be sworn in by the Governor.

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 10:39 am

Jobs, AI, trade & more: Key outcomes of PM Modis Sweden visit

Prime Minister Modi wrapped up his tour in Sweden with a monumental advancement in India-Sweden relations, officially turning it into a Strategic Partnership. Highlights of this collaboration include a detailed action plan for the upcoming years (2026-2030) and a groundbreaking partnership on AI and quantum computing.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 10:39 am

Rahul Gandhi to begin two-day visit to Raebareli from May 19

Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi is set to embark on a two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency, Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh, starting May 19, during which he will hold meetings with party workers and interact with local leaders.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 9:57 am

West Bengal raises upper age limit for government job recruitment

Under the revised rules, the maximum age limit for Group A posts has been raised to 41 years, Group B posts to 44 years, and Group C and D posts to 45 years.

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 9:06 am

Maharashtra SIR: Shinde asks Sena workers to ensure Bangladeshis don't find place in electoral rolls

The SIR process will begin in the state from next month

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2026 8:42 am

UP Cabinet expansion: Former BJP chief Bhupendra Chaudhary gets MSME, Manoj Pandey to take charge of Food and Civil Supplies

Uttar Pradesh government has expanded its cabinet. New ministers and promoted leaders have been given important portfolios. This move strengthens the administrative team ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party aims for a third consecutive term. New ministers have taken their oath of office.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 8:39 am

Mehbooba Mufti urges PM Modi to release J&K prisoners ahead of Eid ul-Azha

Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She requested the release of prisoners from the region before Eid ul-Azha. Mufti stated this would be a significant confidence-building step. It would convey a message of reconciliation and healing to the people of the Union Territory.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 7:26 am

Dutch PM Rob Jetten raises 2016 abduction case

The Times of India 18 May 2026 3:30 am

No fresh Ebola case in India since 2014: Govt

The Times of India 18 May 2026 3:27 am

PM Modis visit to Netherlands secures 17 strategic pacts

The Times of India 18 May 2026 3:21 am

CBSE slashes paper re-evaluation fees

The Times of India 18 May 2026 3:10 am

Kharif output dips by over 10% across states in El Nio years: Study

El Nio's shadow looms over India's monsoon. Past El Nio years saw key kharif crops like paddy and maize suffer over 10% output reduction in numerous districts. This study highlights vulnerable areas and stresses the need for district-level climate-resilient planning. Policymakers are urged to strengthen contingency plans for drought-tolerant varieties and efficient water management to protect farmers.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 2:53 am

Boost for tech, trade & defence as India, Sweden become strategic partners

India and Sweden have elevated their ties to a strategic partnership, signing an action plan for 2026-2030 covering green transition, technology, trade, and defence. Prime Minister Modi emphasized shared democratic values and innovation, highlighting growing defence cooperation moving beyond a buyer-seller dynamic. Discussions also explored strengthening supply chains and sustainable mobility.

The Times of India 18 May 2026 2:48 am

NEET leak: If PM respects parliamentary committees, then he must remove Pradhan, says Digvijaya

Congress MP Digvijaya Singh has demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This comes after the NEET-UG 2026 exam was cancelled due to alleged paper leaks. Singh criticized the National Testing Agency and the government's handling of exam irregularities. He also raised concerns about the government's gold import policies and past economic decisions.

The Economic Times 18 May 2026 12:28 am

Telangana statehood movement activists to be identified in four categories

Hyderabad: The high-level committee constituted by the Telangana government to identify Telangana Udyamakarulu (statehood movement activists) has decided to identify the genuine activists in four categories. The first meeting of the committee headed by government advisor on public relations and education, K. Keshava Rao, was held on Sunday. Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, MLCs Prof Kodandaram and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 May 2026 10:19 pm

Why is PM Modi silent? He should apologise to stduents: Rahul on paper leak

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday, May 17, slammed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for failing students across age groups amid the NEET-UG paper leak row and CBSE evaluation concerns, and sought an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for destroying the future of lakhs of children. The leader of the opposition in the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 May 2026 10:03 pm

'We will welcome you with flowers': Bengal BJP chief's sarcastic invite to Abhishek Banerjee for Falta repoll

West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya sarcastically invited TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee to campaign in Falta ahead of the May 21 repoll, claiming the TMC has been 'sent into exile' by the state's people. Bhattacharya alleged the TMC leadership has disappeared following electoral setbacks and expressed confidence in BJP's victory, urging TMC workers to campaign freely.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 9:32 pm

New Keralam govt: CM-designate VD Satheesan announces cabinet before oath - check full list

Kerala chief minister-designate V. D. Satheesan has announced his new cabinet, set to be sworn in on Monday. Prominent leaders like Ramesh Chennithala and Sunny Joseph will be part of the ministry. Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan has been named Speaker, with Shanimol Usman as Deputy Speaker.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 6:33 pm

Growing up unheard: The truth behind teenage attitude and mood swings

Teenagers' emotions are often dismissed as drama or phases, but they can signify real stress, loneliness, or anxiety. A significant gap exists between how teens and adults communicate and experience pressure, especially with the rise of social media and intense academic competition. Understanding and listening without judgment are crucial for bridging this disconnect.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 4:32 pm

Why PM Modi visited Netherlands Afsluitdijk dam: The Dutch model India may need

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Afsluitdijk dam in the Netherlands highlighted Dutch expertise in water management, relevant to India's ambitious Kalpasar Project. This mega-project aims to create a freshwater reservoir in Gujarat, addressing water scarcity and flood protection, mirroring the multi-functional Dutch approach to climate resilience.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 4:20 pm

Fire in Rajdhani Express: Probe ordered, railway traffic disrupted top developments

A fire erupted in the Thiruvananthapuram-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh. All 68 passengers were safely evacuated. The blaze disrupted rail traffic on the busy Mumbai-Delhi route. In a separate incident, a van carrying repair equipment overturned, injuring five railway staff members. Restoration efforts are underway.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 4:19 pm

'Leader of opposition has right to suggest': BJP ally on Rahul Gandhi's NEET charges

The BJP has responded to Rahul Gandhi's demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Party leaders stated that while the opposition has the right to suggest, the government is committed to dismantling the leak network and ensuring accountability. Investigations are ongoing, with arrests made.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 3:51 pm

Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi to attend V D Satheesan's swearing-in ceremony on Monday

Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Kerala chief minister-designate V D Satheesan on May 18. Chief ministers from Congress-ruled states Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh are also expected to be present. The ceremony will take place at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

The Economic Times 17 May 2026 3:24 pm

Rahul Gandi slams Centre, demands resignation of Education Minister over NEET-UG 2026 paper leak allegations

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the Central government regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination. He is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and has questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the matter. The controversy follows allegations of a paper leak and the subsequent cancellation of the exam.

The Economic Times 17 May 2026 2:49 pm

'Why haven't you sacked education minister?' Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi over NEET-UG paper leak

Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Modi over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, questioning the inaction of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Gandhi drew parallels to the 2024 leak, highlighting repeated paper leaks and the government's response. The NEET-UG 2026 exam was cancelled due to paper leaks, affecting 23 lakh aspirants, with the CBI investigating the matter.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 2:12 pm

Among top source markets, US expects biggest fall in visitors from India this year

US forecasts a significant drop in Indian visitors by over 4% in 2026, making it the second largest overseas source market after the UK. This decline is attributed to visa issues, reduced flight connectivity, high airfares, and a depreciating rupee. Japan and Brazil are expected to surpass India in visitor numbers.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 1:46 pm

Puducherry: AIADMK MLA Anbalagan to be sworn-in as pro tem Speaker on Monday

A Anbalagan, the sole AIADMK legislator, will take oath as pro tem Speaker of the Puducherry Assembly on Monday. Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan will administer the oath. Anbalagan represents the Uppalam constituency and has a long electoral history there. He currently serves as the Secretary of the Puducherry unit of AIADMK. The AIADMK is part of the AINRC-led NDA alliance.

The Economic Times 17 May 2026 1:45 pm

Delhi to offer collateral-free loans up to 10 crore to women SHGs and startups

CM Rekha Gupta announces support at Mega SHG Mela to boost indigenous products and self-reliance

The Hindu Businessline 17 May 2026 1:31 pm

Keralam Cabinet list expected in few hours ahead of swearing-in: Congress MP Shafi Parambil

VD Satheesan held a meeting with party leaders at the KPCC office in Thiruvananthapuram to finalise the cabinet list

The Hindu Businessline 17 May 2026 1:18 pm

Recipe for ecological disaster: Congress writes to Rajnath Singh flagging environmental concerns over Great Nicobar project

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has urged Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to reconsider the Great Nicobar Island Project, deeming it an ecological disaster. He argued that while strengthening defence is crucial, the project's commercial aspects outweigh security needs and could harm the region's ecology and tribal rights. Ramesh proposed alternative infrastructure expansions with lower environmental impacts.

The Times of India 17 May 2026 1:18 pm