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May 9 (BNP): The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is playing a key role in advancing the Government of India’s goal of achieving “Insurance for All by 2047,” according to LIC CEO and MD R. Doraiswamy.

He said the scheme has significantly expanded life insurance coverage among low-income and underserved sections of society by offering affordable protection and easy enrolment through the banking system.

Launched in 2015, PMJJBY provides a simple one-year life insurance cover linked to bank accounts, helping bridge the gap for millions who previously had little or no access to formal insurance products. Officials noted that the scheme is part of a broader financial inclusion push aimed at building a stronger social security framework in the country.

The LIC chief highlighted that India’s insurance penetration was relatively low at the time of the scheme’s introduction, and initiatives like PMJJBY have helped make insurance more accessible and affordable for the masses.

He added that the government’s long-term vision of universal insurance coverage is being supported by such flagship schemes, which aim to ensure financial protection for families across both rural and urban areas.

Officials believe that continued expansion of PMJJBY and related schemes will be crucial in increasing awareness, deepening insurance penetration, and achieving the national goal of “Insurance for All by 2047.”

May 9 (BNP): The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is playing a key role in advancing the Government of India’s goal of achieving “Insurance for All by 2047,” according to LIC CEO and MD R. Doraiswamy.

He said the scheme has significantly expanded life insurance coverage among low-income and underserved sections of society by offering affordable protection and easy enrolment through the banking system.

Launched in 2015, PMJJBY provides a simple one-year life insurance cover linked to bank accounts, helping bridge the gap for millions who previously had little or no access to formal insurance products. Officials noted that the scheme is part of a broader financial inclusion push aimed at building a stronger social security framework in the country.

The LIC chief highlighted that India’s insurance penetration was relatively low at the time of the scheme’s introduction, and initiatives like PMJJBY have helped make insurance more accessible and affordable for the masses.

He added that the government’s long-term vision of universal insurance coverage is being supported by such flagship schemes, which aim to ensure financial protection for families across both rural and urban areas.

Officials believe that continued expansion of PMJJBY and related schemes will be crucial in increasing awareness, deepening insurance penetration, and achieving the national goal of “Insurance for All by 2047.”

May 9 (BNP): The Government of India on Saturday announced important leadership appointments in the armed forces, naming Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramani (Retd.) as the next Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan as the next Chief of the Naval Staff.

Lt Gen N.S. Raja Subramani (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, will assume office as the Chief of Defence Staff and will also function as Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Military Affairs from the date he takes charge, until further orders. His appointment is aimed at further strengthening jointness among the three services and improving higher defence coordination and strategic planning.

In a parallel decision, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has been appointed as the next Chief of the Naval Staff. He will take charge on the 31st of this month and will serve in the position until December 31, 2028.

Currently serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command in Mumbai, Vice Admiral Swaminathan brings extensive operational and leadership experience to the role. His appointment is expected to further enhance the Navy’s operational readiness, maritime security capabilities, and ongoing modernisation efforts.

Officials stated that these appointments reflect the government’s continued focus on strengthening India’s defence leadership framework, ensuring seamless command transitions, and reinforcing national security preparedness across all three services.

May 9 (BNP): Muth village in Sindhudurg district has become the first village in Maharashtra to complete the self-enumeration process ahead of Census 2027, marking an early milestone in the state’s census preparations.

The achievement was made possible through active participation of residents and coordinated efforts by revenue officials. The village, located in Vengurla taluka, has 36 households and a population of 144.

The exercise was conducted under the guidance of Sindhudurg District Collector Tripti Dhodmise, officials said.

Chief Principal Census Officer Nirupama J. Dange welcomed the development and encouraged other villages across Maharashtra to complete self-enumeration within the stipulated timeline. She noted that such initiatives would strengthen the accuracy, efficiency, and smooth execution of the upcoming census process.

Officials said the achievement highlights growing awareness and participation at the grassroots level in digital and citizen-driven governance initiatives.

Kolkata, May 9 (BNP): Suvendu Adhikari has been formally elected as the BJP legislature party leader in West Bengal and is set to take oath as the new Chief Minister, marking the party’s first-ever government in the state following a decisive electoral victory.

The BJP secured 207 seats in the 294-member Assembly, bringing an end to 15 years of Trinamool Congress rule led by Mamata Banerjee. Adhikari’s elevation came after a unanimous decision during the BJP legislature party meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who stated that all MLAs supported a single name for the Chief Minister’s post.

Soon after being elected leader, Adhikari met the Governor and formally staked claim to form the new government. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to be held at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior NDA leaders are expected to attend.

Adhikari’s political rise has been marked by a series of high-profile electoral victories against Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram and Bhabanipur, including a symbolic win in her traditional stronghold. Once regarded as a key strategist within the Trinamool Congress, Adhikari joined the BJP in 2020 and rapidly emerged as the party’s most influential face in West Bengal.

Known for his strong organisational network, deep understanding of Bengal politics, and aggressive campaign strategy, Adhikari played a central role in the BJP’s successful electoral push across the state. His appointment as Chief Minister is being viewed as a major political milestone for the BJP in eastern India and signals a new chapter in West Bengal’s political landscape.

May 9 (BNP): India has successfully carried out the maiden flight trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) weapon system off the coast of Odisha on May 07, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s indigenous defence capability development.

Developed as a modular range extension kit, TARA is India’s first indigenous Glide Weapon System (GWS) designed to convert conventional unguided warheads into precision-guided munitions. The system enhances the range, accuracy, and operational effectiveness of existing weapon platforms, enabling greater mission flexibility for the armed forces.

The successful trial demonstrated the system’s capability to perform as intended under operational conditions, validating its aerodynamic performance, guidance mechanisms, and overall system integration. Defence officials stated that the achievement reflects India’s growing expertise in advanced defence technologies and its continued focus on self-reliance in critical military systems.

TARA is expected to significantly enhance stand-off strike capability by allowing existing munitions to be upgraded into precision-guided weapons without requiring complete system replacement. This makes it a cost-effective and scalable solution for modern battlefield requirements.

The successful test is seen as an important step toward strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem and reducing dependence on imported weapon systems. It also reinforces ongoing efforts under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative to develop cutting-edge technologies within the country.

Further development and user trials of the system are expected to follow, with the aim of integrating it into operational service after necessary evaluations and certifications.

Chennai, May 9 (BNP): Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s much-anticipated swearing-in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is reportedly facing a delay amid uncertainty over crucial alliance support. Though TVK has emerged as the single largest party with 108 seats, the party is still short of the required majority mark in the 234-member Assembly.

According to reports, Vijay met Governor Rajendra Arlekar on Friday evening and submitted signatures of 116 MLAs, falling two seats short of the 118-seat majority needed to form the government.

The delay is primarily linked to the pending formal support letter from Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). Raj Bhavan sources stated that the Governor is awaiting official confirmation from VCK before making any announcement regarding government formation.

Earlier, there were indications that both VCK and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) would support TVK, potentially taking the alliance tally to 120 seats. However, the political equation shifted after IUML denied extending support to Vijay and reaffirmed its alliance with the DMK.

VCK leaders have reportedly assured that their support letter may be submitted on Saturday after party MLAs return to Chennai. Reports also suggest that ongoing negotiations over ministerial positions, including VCK’s demand for the Deputy Chief Minister post for party chief Thol Thirumavalavan, may have contributed to the delay.

Meanwhile, TVK has already secured support from Congress, CPI and CPI(M), with the Left parties formally submitting their letters of support on Friday.

In another development, AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran met the Governor and extended support from his party’s lone MLA to AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami.

The political situation in Tamil Nadu remains tense as all eyes are now on the VCK’s final decision, which could determine the formation of the next government in the state.

May 8 (BNP): Teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is receiving growing support for an India debut following his impressive performances in domestic and franchise cricket, with several cricket experts viewing him as a potential long-term asset for the national Test side.

The 15-year-old batter, who has largely featured in T20 cricket with limited First-Class experience, has rapidly emerged as one of the most talked-about young talents in Indian cricket. His fearless batting approach, high strike rate, and maturity under pressure have sparked discussions about how quickly exceptional players should be introduced to international cricket.

Former cricketers and mentors believe Sooryavanshi possesses the talent and temperament needed to succeed at the highest level despite his young age and limited exposure to red-ball cricket.

Among the strongest voices backing the youngster is mentor Zubin Bharucha, who is widely credited for identifying and bringing Sooryavanshi into the Rajasthan Royals setup. Bharucha has urged the BCCI to take a bold step similar to the one taken with legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar during his teenage years.

Referring to Tendulkar’s iconic Test debut against Pakistan in 1989, Bharucha said exposing extraordinary young talent to the highest level at the right time can significantly accelerate development and confidence. According to him, Sooryavanshi’s batting ability and fearless approach already place him ahead of several players waiting for opportunities.

Although the teenager has primarily opened the batting throughout his career, Bharucha believes his long-term future in Test cricket may lie in the middle order rather than at the top. He suggested that Sooryavanshi could eventually become highly effective in positions five or six in India’s Test lineup, roles often associated with players like Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.

The mentor also highlighted the youngster’s strong back-foot play and technical adaptability, qualities that could help him succeed in challenging conditions once he gains more experience against swing and seam bowling.

Bharucha emphasized that while Sooryavanshi possesses exceptional natural talent, mastering red-ball techniques will be crucial for long-term success in Test cricket. He noted that while the youngster could initially flourish in familiar Indian conditions, overseas environments with heavy seam movement and overcast conditions would provide tougher challenges.

Despite his limited First-Class experience, Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise through youth cricket and franchise competitions has generated immense excitement among fans and cricket analysts alike. While many experts believe immediate Test selection may still be premature, there is growing agreement that the teenager has the potential to become a major part of India’s future across formats.

Kolkata, May 8 (BNP): Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Kolkata on Friday to chair a crucial Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Legislature Party meeting for the selection of the Chief Minister in West Bengal following the party’s historic victory in the Assembly elections.

Amit Shah has been appointed as the Central Observer for the election of the BJP legislative party leader, while Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has been named as the co-observer for the process. The high-level meeting is expected to finalise the BJP’s choice for the top post in the State.

Senior BJP leaders Suvendu Adhikari and Agnimitra Paul have emerged as frontrunners in the race for the Chief Minister’s position, although the party leadership has not made any official announcement so far.

The political developments come after the BJP secured a landslide mandate in the West Bengal Assembly elections, winning 207 seats in the 294-member House, while the Trinamool Congress managed to secure 80 seats. The victory marks the first time the BJP is set to form a government in West Bengal. Political analysts also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first sitting Prime Minister after Jawaharlal Nehru under whose leadership the BJP has won power in the State.

West Bengal Governor R N Ravi dissolved the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday following the election results. The dissolution came amid heightened political activity and intense discussions over government formation in the State.

Meanwhile, political tensions escalated after Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to BJP leader and Chief Ministerial hopeful Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead by unidentified bike-borne assailants at Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district late on Wednesday night. Rath sustained multiple bullet injuries to the head, chest, and abdomen and was declared dead after being rushed to a hospital.

The body of Chandranath Rath was later taken to his hometown in Purba Medinipur district. West Bengal Police have reportedly recovered the motorcycle believed to have been used by the assailants during the attack. The vehicle has been brought to Madhyamgram Police Station for investigation.

In another major development, outgoing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reportedly refused to visit Raj Bhavan to tender her resignation after the election defeat, stating that she had not accepted the loss. According to the Election Commission of India, Mamata Banerjee lost the Bhabanipur Assembly seat to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari by a margin of over 15,000 votes.

The BJP Legislature Party meeting chaired by Amit Shah is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the party’s leadership and future governance strategy in West Bengal.