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Tehran, May 11 (BNP): Iran has expressed its willingness to continue diplomatic engagement and negotiations, provided the talks are conducted with “dignity,” mutual respect, and without pressure or threats, according to Iranian media reports.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran remains open to dialogue and peaceful solutions but will firmly safeguard the country’s national interests and sovereignty. He emphasised that negotiations must be based on fairness, respect, and international principles rather than coercion or unilateral demands.

The remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in the West Asia region and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the United States and regional mediators to reduce conflict and restore stability. Reports indicate that discussions are continuing through indirect diplomatic channels, with Iran recently responding to a US-backed proposal aimed at easing tensions in the region.

Iranian officials have maintained that while the country prefers diplomacy over confrontation, it will not compromise on its rights, security, or strategic interests during any future negotiations.

Guwahati, May 11 (BNP): Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma was unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP Legislature Party and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Assam on Sunday, paving the way for him to continue as the Chief Minister for a second consecutive term.

Following his election, Sarma met Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and formally staked claim to form the new government in the state.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new Council of Ministers is scheduled to be held on May 12 in Guwahati and is expected to witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior BJP leaders, NDA allies, and several dignitaries.

Sarma’s re-election as NDA leader comes after the alliance secured a strong mandate in the 126-member Assam Assembly. Party leaders and supporters celebrated the announcement, expressing confidence in the continuation of the government’s development agenda in the state.

The BJP leader is expected to continue focusing on infrastructure growth, welfare initiatives, law and order, and economic development during his second term as Chief Minister.

New Delhi, May 11 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to place “nation first” and adopt responsible practices to minimise the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on India’s economy and energy security.

Emphasising that the Centre is making all possible efforts to protect people from the adverse effects of the conflict, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to use fuel and essential resources judiciously during the challenging period.

Among the key appeals, PM Modi called on people to reduce unnecessary consumption of petrol and diesel, avoid wastage of electricity and fuel, and support measures aimed at maintaining economic stability. He also urged citizens to prioritise national interest over personal comfort and cooperate with the government in managing the situation responsibly.

The Prime Minister highlighted that global tensions in the West Asia region could affect fuel prices, supply chains, and economic conditions worldwide, including India. He assured that the government is continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities and energy supplies.

The appeal comes amid rising international concerns over escalating tensions in the Gulf region and their possible impact on global markets and oil trade.

Delhi, May 11: Reinforcing its commitment towards meaningful community engagement and social responsibility, Prateek Group’s Aakar Foundation organised a special Mother’s Day CSR activity at SHEOWS Care Centre, Delhi. The initiative was aimed at spending quality time with elderly women residents and celebrating the spirit of motherhood through warmth, care, and companionship.

The event began with a warm welcome for all attendees, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. Members of the foundation, along with key representatives from Prateek Group, interacted closely with the residents and caretakers, creating a cheerful and engaging atmosphere throughout the evening. Led by the Managing Director’s wife, Mrs Remika Tiwari, the activity brought a deeply personal and emotional touch to the evening, reflecting Prateek Group’s people-first philosophy and compassionate approach towards community welfare. As part of the celebration, sarees and gowns were distributed among the women residents as thoughtful gifts. Snacks and interactive engagement activities were also organised, encouraging conversations, laughter, and shared moments of joy.

Speaking on the initiative, Prateek Tiwari, Managing Director, Prateek Group, said,

“Mother’s Day is a reminder of the love, strength, and selflessness that mothers bring into our lives every single day. Through this initiative, we simply wanted to spend meaningful time with the residents, listen to their stories, and make them feel valued and remembered. Sometimes, small gestures and genuine conversations can create the biggest impact. At Prateek Group, we strongly believe that community responsibility goes beyond infrastructure and business. It is equally about compassion, human connection, and giving back in ways that truly matter. This evening was emotional, humbling, and deeply special for all of us.”

Through initiatives led by Aakar Foundation, Prateek Group continues to focus on creating a positive social impact by supporting communities through meaningful outreach, engagement, and welfare-driven activities.

Chennai, May 11 (BNP): On his very first day as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay on Sunday signed three important files aimed at public welfare and social security. One of the key decisions includes providing 200 units of free electricity to domestic consumers using up to 500 units of electricity on a bimonthly basis.

Mr. Vijay signed the files shortly after the swearing-in ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, in the presence of thousands of fans, supporters, and party workers.

Apart from the free electricity scheme, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister also announced the formation of a special task force to combat the growing drug menace in the state and directed officials to implement stronger measures to ensure women’s safety.

The announcements mark the beginning of Vijay’s administration with a focus on welfare, law enforcement, and public safety.

New Delhi – The celebration of Europe Day this year unfolded as a vibrant and engaging tribute to the spirit of unity, cultural diversity, and shared values that define the European Union. The event titled ‘Europe in Motion’ was an initiative of EUNIC India organized by the cultural institutes and some embassies. Bringing together members of the diplomatic community, cultural practitioners, and distinguished guests, the event stood as a testament to the enduring and dynamic relationship between Europe and India.

Throughout the celebrations, Europe Day served as a platform to highlight Europe’s rich cultural diversity, shared democratic values, and collaborative spirit. The closing event at the Polish Embassy encapsulated these ideals, offering a fitting finale that blended cultural expression with diplomatic engagement.

Heads of Mission / Ambassadors from Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, and Ireland with the EU Quiz winners

The occasion was graced by the presence of eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Piotr Świtalski, Head of Mission of Poland, the Ambassador of Ukraine, Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk, and the Ambassador of Lithuania, Diana Mickevičienė, also marked their presence, alongside the Deputy Ambassador of Ireland, Raymond Mullen, reflecting the strong and collective participation of European missions in India. The evening was further enriched by the presence of Ms. Małgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute in New Delhi and various other dignitaries.

The celebrations featured a lively array of activities that captured the essence of Europe’s cultural richness. A specially curated Europe Quiz engaged participants in an interactive exploration of the continent’s history, culture, and contemporary achievements, generating enthusiasm and friendly competition among attendees.

The atmosphere was further elevated by captivating musical performances, including a special showcase by acclaimed Polish music sensation Michał Rudaś, whose powerful and evocative rendition left the audience spellbound. Irish musicians added their distinctive energy to the evening, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the event.

A particularly memorable highlight was the spontaneous and spirited musical moment that brought together Ambassador Diana Mickevičienė, Ms. Małgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, and Michał Rudaś, as they joined voices to perform a traditional Polish wedding song. The performance carried a unique cross-cultural resonance, recalling the fascinating anecdote of how the melody of this very song is believed to have inspired a classic Bollywood number, after a film composer encountered it at a Polish wedding—an evocative reminder of the deep and often unexpected cultural exchanges between Europe and India.

Guests were also treated to a thoughtfully curated spread of European culinary delights, including an assortment of snacks, soups, and traditional delicacies that offered a taste of the continent’s rich gastronomic heritage. These elements combined to create an evening that was not only celebratory but also deeply immersive.

With the gracious presence of several Heads of Missions and distinguished guests, the evening fostered a spirit of camaraderie and mutual appreciation, perfectly embodying the ideals of unity in diversity.

The resounding success of this year’s Europe Day celebrations highlights the power of cultural diplomacy in bringing people together, strengthening partnerships, and deepening mutual understanding between Europe and India.

Hyderabad, May 9, 2026: At a time when rising summer temperatures are causing significant hardship to commuters, workers and the general public across the state, Bayireddi Foundation undertook extensive community service initiatives across key locations in Hyderabad as part of its social responsibility efforts. Conducted over three days from May 7 to 9, the initiative included summer relief activities, a blood donation drive and food distribution programmes, benefiting thousands of people across the city.

Keeping the harsh summer conditions in mind, the Foundation distributed nearly 6,000 servings of lemon water and buttermilk at Raidurgam Metro Station, Gachibowli Junction and Hitech City areas. The initiative provided immediate relief to commuters, workers and members of the public travelling and working under extreme heat conditions. Volunteers actively participated in the drive by personally serving people at the locations.

In another key initiative, over 300 employees voluntarily donated blood during a blood donation camp organised in association with Chiranjeevi Eye & Blood Bank at Gachibowli. The collected blood will support emergency medical requirements for patients across the city. The enthusiastic participation from employees emerged as one of the highlights of the programme.

The Foundation also distributed around 1,000 food packets to cancer patients, attendants and hospital staff at Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital & Research Institute. The initiative brought comfort to several families who had travelled from distant places for treatment.

Speaking on the occasion, Srinivas Pindi, Vice President HR & TA at Phenom, said, “Standing with society during times of need is the responsibility of every organisation. We are happy to see our employees voluntarily participate in these service activities. We will continue to support initiatives that create a meaningful impact in the community.”

Founded by Mahe Bayireddi and Hari Bayireddi, the Bayireddi Foundation continues to support underserved communities through initiatives focused on healthcare, education and social development. 

Delhi. May 9 (BNP): Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday strongly criticised the Enforcement Directorate (ED) following its raid on the premises linked to Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, alleging that Punjabis were being “harassed in every possible way.”

Reacting to the ED action, Kejriwal accused the BJP-led Central government of misusing investigative agencies to target opposition leaders and suppress political voices from Punjab. He said the repeated raids and investigations against AAP leaders reflected a larger pattern of political vendetta.

“Punjabis have been harassed in every possible way,” Kejriwal said while addressing reporters, adding that the people of Punjab would not be intimidated by such actions. He claimed the raids were politically motivated and aimed at weakening the Aam Aadmi Party ahead of upcoming political developments.

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at locations linked to Sanjeev Arora as part of an ongoing investigation. However, officials have not yet released detailed information regarding the nature of the case or the findings of the raid.

The development has triggered a fresh political confrontation between the AAP and the BJP, with party leaders rallying behind Arora and questioning the timing of the enforcement action.

As Mother’s Day approaches, the stories of working mothers across professions continue to highlight the realities of balancing ambition, caregiving, and personal aspirations. From healthcare and technology to entrepreneurship, many women are navigating demanding careers while embracing motherhood with resilience and determination.

The shared experience often described as “mommy guilt” — the feeling of constantly trying to balance professional responsibilities with family life — remains a common thread among working mothers worldwide. Yet many women are redefining the narrative by choosing not between career and family, but by pursuing both with purpose and adaptability.

Madhavi Nair, a surgical oncologist at Manipal Hospitals, reflected on the emotional and practical realities of managing long hours in the operating theatre while raising three children. She described motherhood as one of the most enriching experiences of her life and emphasised the importance of accepting imperfection and relying on family support systems when needed.

Similarly, Uma Pendyala shared how she approaches ambition and motherhood as complementary rather than competing priorities. Working in a high-pressure corporate environment, she said maintaining emotional presence with family while pursuing professional growth requires consistency, intention, and adaptability.

In Bengaluru, entrepreneur T R Gayathri D Nadig balances family responsibilities with leading Tantransh Guru Private Limited, a venture focused on empowering women through technology and skill development. With over two decades of experience in the IT sector, she continues to advocate for women’s opportunities while acknowledging the challenges and emotional demands of balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood.

Collectively, these stories reflect a broader shift in how modern motherhood is being understood — not as a choice between personal ambition and family life, but as an evolving journey where women continue to create space for both.

This Mother’s Day, their experiences serve as a reminder of the resilience, adaptability, and dedication that define working mothers across industries and communities.

West Bengal, May 9 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to veteran BJP worker Makhanlal Sarkar during a public event in West Bengal, touching the 98-year-old’s feet as a mark of respect for his decades-long contribution to nationalist politics.

The gesture drew widespread attention at the event, with Modi acknowledging Sarkar’s lifelong dedication to the nationalist movement and the BJP’s ideological roots. Sarkar is regarded as one of the party’s oldest grassroots workers in West Bengal and has remained associated with nationalist causes since the early years after Independence.

According to party leaders, Makhanlal Sarkar was among those who accompanied Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee during the 1952 Kashmir movement. He was reportedly arrested during the campaign launched to hoist the Indian tricolour in the region, which later became a defining chapter in the Jana Sangh’s political history.

The Prime Minister’s interaction with the veteran worker came amid BJP celebrations in West Bengal following the party’s electoral success in the state. Senior leaders present at the event described Sarkar as a symbol of commitment and ideological perseverance within the organisation.