V. D. Satheesan has emerged as one of the most prominent faces in Kerala politics after being chosen as the new Chief Minister of Kerala following the Congress-led United Democratic Front’s sweeping victory in the 2026 Assembly elections. Known for his sharp debating skills, grassroots political connect, and consistent organisational work within the Congress party, Satheesan’s rise marks a significant political transition in the state after a decade of Left Democratic Front rule.
Born on May 31, 1964, in Nettoor near Kochi in Ernakulam district, Vadassery Damodaran Satheesan comes from a middle-class family. He pursued his education in Kerala and later completed postgraduate studies in Social Work along with degrees in law. Before entering full-time politics, Satheesan practised as an advocate in the Kerala High Court for nearly a decade, which helped shape his reputation as a strong legal and policy-oriented thinker.
His political journey began through student politics. During his college years, he was actively associated with the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and later rose through the ranks of the Indian National Congress organisation in Kerala. He served as chairman of the Mahatma Gandhi University Union and gradually established himself as a dedicated party worker with strong organisational abilities.
Satheesan first contested the Kerala Assembly elections in 1996 from the Paravur constituency but lost in what was then considered a Communist stronghold. However, he made a successful comeback in 2001 by winning the seat and has retained it continuously ever since. Over the years, he built a reputation as a consistent performer and articulate legislator inside the Kerala Assembly.
Within the Congress party, Satheesan was often viewed as a leader who steadily rose despite factional politics and internal challenges. Though several top organisational positions reportedly eluded him in earlier years, he remained active and loyal to the party structure. His persistence eventually paid off when he was appointed Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly in 2021 after the Congress defeat in that year’s Assembly elections.
As Opposition leader, Satheesan became one of the strongest critics of the Left government led by Pinarayi Vijayan. He actively raised issues related to corruption allegations, governance, unemployment, and welfare delivery. His aggressive campaigning and leadership during the 2026 elections are widely credited for helping the UDF secure a massive mandate of over 100 seats in the 140-member Assembly.
Political observers often describe Satheesan as a leader who combines traditional Congress ideology with a modern communication style. He is known for his secular political positioning, organisational discipline, and ability to connect with both youth and grassroots workers. During the election campaign, he strongly projected themes of welfare, governance reforms, women’s empowerment, and employment opportunities.
Now, as Chief Minister, V.D. Satheesan faces the challenge of fulfilling the promises made during the election campaign while steering Kerala through economic and developmental challenges. For many Congress supporters, his appointment represents the rise of a leader who spent decades patiently building his political career through perseverance, public engagement, and steady leadership.
N. Rangasamy is one of the most influential and widely recognised political leaders in Puducherry. Known for his simple lifestyle, welfare-oriented governance, and strong grassroots connection, Rangasamy has played a major role in shaping Puducherry’s political landscape for more than two decades. In 2026, he created history by becoming the Chief Minister of Puducherry for the fifth time, further cementing his position as one of the Union Territory’s most enduring political figures.
Born on August 4, 1950, in Puducherry, N. Rangasamy’s full name is Natesan Krishnasamy Gounder Rangasamy. He completed his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Tagore Arts College and later earned a law degree from Dr. Ambedkar Government Law College in Puducherry. Before entering active politics, he developed a reputation as a calm and approachable public figure.
Rangasamy began his political journey with the K. Kamaraj-inspired Congress tradition in southern India. He entered the Puducherry Legislative Assembly in 1990 as a Congress candidate from the Thattanchavady constituency. Over the years, he served in various ministerial positions and gradually emerged as one of the most popular leaders in the Union Territory.
He first became Chief Minister of Puducherry in 2001 as a Congress leader and quickly gained popularity for his welfare schemes and development initiatives. During his tenure, he introduced several public welfare programs related to education, housing, healthcare, and social welfare. Schemes such as subsidised housing, educational assistance for students, free textbooks, and welfare pensions earned him strong support among ordinary citizens.
Due to his simplicity and accessible leadership style, Rangasamy earned the nickname “Junior Kamaraj,” referring to the legendary Tamil Nadu leader K. Kamaraj. Unlike many politicians, he became known for travelling with minimal security and maintaining close contact with the public. His supporters often refer to him as “Makkal Mudhalvar,” meaning “People’s Chief Minister.”
However, political differences with the Congress leadership led him to resign as Chief Minister in 2008. In 2011, he broke away from the Congress and founded his own regional party, the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC). The move proved highly successful, as the party won the 2011 Assembly elections and brought Rangasamy back to power.
Since then, Rangasamy has remained a dominant force in Puducherry politics. Under his leadership, the AINRC formed alliances with the BJP-led NDA and retained power in subsequent elections. In 2026, he once again took oath as Chief Minister for a historic fifth term, highlighting his continued popularity and influence in the region.
Rangasamy is also known for advocating greater autonomy and even statehood for Puducherry, often arguing that the Union Territory requires stronger administrative powers for faster development.
Over the years, N. Rangasamy has built an image of a grounded, welfare-driven leader who combines regional politics with practical governance. Whether admired for his simplicity, political resilience, or development initiatives, he remains one of the defining faces of Puducherry’s modern political history.
In a landmark judgment that has reignited national discussion around historical religious sites in India, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, also known as Vagdevi. The court quashed the Archaeological Survey of India’s 2003 arrangement that had allowed Muslims to offer Friday namaz at the site while restricting Hindu worship to specific days and timings.
The verdict is being viewed by many Hindu groups as a historic moment and a major legal recognition of the site’s original religious character. Celebrations were reported in several parts of Madhya Pradesh after devotees gathered to offer prayers at the complex following the judgment.
#WATCH | Dhar, Madhya Pradesh | On Dhar-Bhojshala case, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain says, "The Indore High Court has delivered a historic verdict, partially setting aside the ASI's order dated April 7, 2003. Furthermore, the Court has granted the Hindu side the right to worship… pic.twitter.com/gilTokeGJy
Bhojshala is an ancient monument located in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh and has long been at the centre of a religious and historical dispute. Hindus regard the site as a temple of Goddess Saraswati and a renowned Sanskrit learning centre established during the reign of the Paramara king Raja Bhoj in the 11th century. Muslims, on the other hand, have referred to the site as the Kamal Maula Mosque, associated with Sufi saint Kamaluddin Chishti.
According to historical accounts, Raja Bhoj established Bhojshala around 1034 AD as a centre for education, literature, and worship dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. Over the centuries, invasions and political changes altered the structure, and Islamic additions including domes and tombs were introduced during the medieval period.
For decades, the site remained under ASI protection, with a controversial arrangement permitting Hindus to worship on Tuesdays and Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays. Tensions frequently arose, especially when Hindu festivals coincided with Friday prayers.
What Did the Court Say?
The Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the religious character of the disputed complex is that of Bhojshala and a temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati). The court stated that historical records, inscriptions, and archaeological findings strongly establish the site’s Hindu origin and continuity of Hindu worship.
The High Court also set aside the 2003 ASI order that had allowed namaz within the premises. However, the court noted that the Muslim community may seek alternate land for the construction of a mosque elsewhere in Dhar.
Importantly, the court observed that the structure was originally a Sanskrit learning centre and Saraswati temple established during Raja Bhoj’s reign and that later modifications did not erase its original religious identity.
VIDEO | Dhar, Madhya Pradesh: Inside visuals from Bhojshala as people offer puja, a day after Madhya Pradesh High Court's verdict which stated that the complex is a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.#Bhojshala#Dhar
One of the strongest aspects of the case was the extensive archaeological evidence presented before the court. Following a High Court order in 2024, the ASI conducted a detailed scientific survey of the complex over nearly 100 days and submitted a report exceeding 2,000 pages.
According to the ASI findings cited in court: ●More than 90 sculptures and over 150 Sanskrit inscriptions were discovered. ●Architectural remains and carvings associated with Hindu temple construction were found across the site. ●Pillars, motifs, and structural elements indicated reuse of temple material in later Islamic construction. ●Historical and literary references linked the site directly to Raja Bhoj and Saraswati worship.
The court also referred to principles used in the Ayodhya judgment, where archaeological and historical evidence played a major role in determining the original religious character of disputed land.
Response from the Other Side
Muslim organisations and groups opposing the verdict expressed disappointment and concern. Some organisations argued that the judgment reflected growing fears among the Muslim community after the Ayodhya verdict and raised concerns about the interpretation of the Places of Worship Act.
They maintained that the site had also functioned as a mosque for centuries and questioned aspects of the interpretation of historical evidence. Legal and community discussions around the verdict are expected to continue.
Why the Verdict is Significant
For many Hindus, the judgment represents the restoration of a sacred site linked to India’s civilisational and educational heritage. The recognition of Bhojshala as a Saraswati temple is being viewed as an acknowledgment of historical evidence and continuity of worship traditions that had existed for centuries.
Alauddin Khilji captured Bhojshala, but even centuries of invasion couldn't erase Sanatan.
— Saffron Chargers (@SaffronChargers) May 15, 2026
The verdict has also strengthened discussions around the preservation of ancient Indian heritage sites and the importance of archaeological evidence in resolving historical disputes. Supporters of the decision argue that the judgment honours India’s cultural history while providing legal clarity on a dispute that lasted decades.
In a society where people are often defined forever by their mistakes, Project Zariya is attempting to rewrite that narrative through compassion, livelihood and rehabilitation. Co-founded by Radhika Somani and Haseena Chakkiwala, Project Zariya works closely with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, especially women, helping them rebuild confidence, learn skills and create sustainable livelihoods through handmade products rooted in craftsmanship and storytelling.
What began with a small Diwali initiative making diyas has today evolved into a social enterprise focused on dignity, second chances and long-term rehabilitation. Through workshops, skill-building and sustainable handcrafted products, Zariya is not just creating items, it is creating pathways back into society.
The EBNW Story, in conversation with co-founder Radhika Somani, spoke about the journey behind Zariya, the emotional realities of working with prison communities, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the larger social change she hopes to create through second chances, dignity and rehabilitation.
1. What was the turning point or personal experience that inspired you to start Zariya?
Radhika Somani: “The Art of Living program sparked the idea. In our first year we made around 500 diyas; over time we produced about 4,000. That’s how Project Zariya began, to make Diwali special. After Diwali ended, we asked ourselves what next. At that time plastic bans were coming in, so we thought of making reusable bags and teaching sewing. We collected cloth from people and got sewing machines. We mostly trained women who didn’t know any skills: we taught them to run the machines and make simple grocery bags. As they learned, many showed enthusiasm. Some enjoyed painting, so we gave them drawing materials; others liked beadwork and made friendship bands. Everyone in the group worked together. We ran many workshops and kept at it, and gradually we reached the level we’re at today.”
2. The name Zariya itself feels meaningful and symbolic — how did it come to you, and what does it represent?
Radhika Somani: “The name Zariya came from the idea of being a means, a way to give people a second chance. For those inside jails, society is very harsh; it’s difficult for them. We wanted to give them another chance and restore their confidence.”
3. For someone discovering Zariya for the first time, how would you describe what the organisation truly does?
Radhika Somani: “We focus on upliftment and helping people. Zariya is about giving back to society. When we recognize our own privilege and stability, we want to uplift those who don’t have the same opportunities. That impulse led to this work.”
4. Why did you choose to work in the space of rehabilitation and second chances, an area many people hesitate to engage with?
Radhika Somani: “As an Art of Living teacher, I was involved in sessions that include meditation and finding inner peace. Those programs are often run inside prisons to help inmates confront their mistakes and start the process of reform. We realized people are not always born criminals; many end up in desperate situations that push them to make wrong choices. Especially for women, difficult circumstances can lead to severe consequences. So we wanted to give them a second chance to rebuild and stand in society.”
5. Your work blends social impact with craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. How do Zariya’s products carry stories beyond their design?
Radhika Somani: “A friend from my neighborhood, Rishita Soni, encouraged me to work with a specific cloth. We used indigo waste material from a factory and improvised with it. The waste indigo became our selling point because it was sustainable and attractive. We built products around what these women from villages already knew or were passionate about. Over five years we incorporated their ideas into our products, so each item carries the makers’ stories and skills.”
6. Was it difficult in the beginning to make people trust or support products made by incarcerated or formerly incarcerated individuals?
Radhika Somani: “Yes, it was very difficult at first. We addressed it through regular information and awareness, explaining the energy and social cause behind the products and showing we support the inmates’ families. We started with government fairs, then got into Shilpgram, which gave us more visibility. Because police and jail authorities backed the project, customers gained trust; seeing trusted institutions support us helped a lot.”
7. In a society that is quick to judge, how challenging is it to rebuild dignity and confidence for the people you work with?
Radhika Somani: “We rebuilt dignity by continuously giving them work and steady orders. That consistent engagement diverted their minds from imprisonment and shifted their mindset toward entrepreneurship. Even small payments made them feel they could do something for themselves. That growing confidence restored much of their dignity. We teach them skills and provide machines so they can rebuild their lives after release.”
8. Is there one individual story or interaction through Zariya that deeply stayed with you or changed your perspective?
Radhika Somani: “Yes. There was a woman who, while deeply depressed, had committed murder. Through Art of Living workshops and meditation she recovered from depression, and now she teaches other inmates and spreads education among them. She transformed from being in despair to helping others, that story stayed with me.”
9. As a woman founder building a social enterprise, what were some struggles or biases you personally faced?
Radhika Somani: “The main struggles were around paperwork and documentation but family support helped me manage those. There was also bias, people questioned why I worked with inmates instead of other groups. But I began this work through the Art of Living, and I see it as seva (service) given to me by my guru, so I persisted despite criticism.”
10. Many NGOs focus on immediate help, but Zariya focuses on livelihood and reintegration. Why is long-term rehabilitation so important to you?
Radhika Somani: “Commitment and handholding are crucial. Inside prison they need structure and activity to avoid depression and lethargy. Outside, many don’t believe there’s anything for them. When an organization provides ongoing support and a willingness to help, they’re more willing to leave the jail environment and try rebuilding their lives. Long-term support builds confidence and allows reintegration.”
11. How do you balance emotional sensitivity with the practical challenges of running and sustaining an organisation?
Radhika Somani: “As an Art of Living faculty, I’ve learned skills and values that help me run the organization. Those practices guide my emotional resilience and practical decision-making.”
12. Do you think consumers today are becoming more conscious about ethical, handmade and impact-driven products?
Radhika Somani: “Yes. With so many products on the market and e-commerce selling questionable goods, people are looking for sustainable options. Our work is sustainable and we maintain quality while updating designs to match fashion. Handmade items have unique qualities that machine-made products lack, and that uniqueness, combined with a story and impact, appeals to buyers. So our products are fashion-driven, handmade, unique, and impact-driven, and we keep quality high.”
13. Looking back at the vision you started with, how far do you think Zariya has come in creating real impact?
Radhika Somani: “We have helped many people become socially and economically settled. We support their families and give them respect and a path in life. They now have goals and a way forward. Even though we’re a small operation, we go out of our way to help them find direction and stability.”
14. What has this journey taught you about people, resilience and second chances?
Radhika Somani: “The surface reality is different from people’s real stories; you have to go on the journey to uncover those stories. We work with people both inside jail and after release, maintaining long-term contact. This work has taught me about resilience and the power of second chances. Over six years we’ve faced many ups and downs and policy changes, but we’ve persisted and remained resilient.”
15. Beyond expansion or numbers, what is the larger social change you hope Zariya contributes to in the future?
Radhika Somani: “We want to change mindsets. I hope to create an industry or ashram-like home where these people can live and work with us. They should have a place to stay and a place to earn , a department or facility that provides both shelter and livelihood.”
Prithviraj Chauhan Jayanti is celebrated every year on May 16 to honour the birth anniversary of Prithviraj Chauhan, one of the most celebrated warrior kings in Indian history. Revered for his bravery, leadership, and resistance against foreign invasions, Prithviraj Chauhan continues to hold a significant place in India’s historical and cultural memory, especially in states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Born in 1166 CE to King Someshvara and Queen Karpuradevi of the Chauhan dynasty, Prithviraj Chauhan ascended the throne of Ajmer at a very young age after the death of his father. Despite becoming king at just around 11 years old, he soon established himself as a capable ruler and fearless warrior. Under his leadership, the Chauhan kingdom expanded across large parts of present-day Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.
Prithviraj Chauhan is widely remembered for his military strength, political leadership, and exceptional skills in warfare. Historical accounts and folklore describe him as a master archer and a multilingual ruler proficient in several languages. His courage and determination earned him immense respect among his contemporaries.
One of the most defining chapters of his life was his resistance against the invading forces of Muhammad Ghori. In the famous First Battle of Tarain in 1191 CE, Prithviraj Chauhan successfully defeated Ghori, marking a significant victory for the Rajput forces. However, in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE, Ghori returned with a stronger army and defeated Prithviraj, leading to a major turning point in medieval Indian history.
Beyond his military achievements, Prithviraj Chauhan also became a legendary cultural figure through stories, poems, and folklore. His romantic tale with Princess Sanyogita remains one of the most famous legends in Indian history. Their story, along with his heroic deeds, is immortalised in the epic poem Prithviraj Raso, composed by his court poet and close companion Chand Bardai.
Prithviraj Chauhan Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of northern India. Cultural programs, processions, flag-hoisting ceremonies, martial art demonstrations, and historical reenactments are organised to honour his legacy. In Ajmer, where much of his history is associated, people visit memorials and historical sites linked to the king, including the famous Prithviraj Chauhan Memorial and Taragarh Fort.
The occasion also serves as a reminder of the values Prithviraj Chauhan symbolised — courage, patriotism, honour, and sacrifice. For many, he represents the spirit of resistance and the pride of Rajput heritage.
Even centuries after his reign, Prithviraj Chauhan remains a symbol of bravery and heroism in Indian history. His life continues to inspire literature, cinema, folk traditions, and public memory, making his Jayanti not only a celebration of a king but also a tribute to India’s rich historical legacy.
National Dengue Day is observed every year in India on May 16 to raise awareness about dengue fever, its prevention, and the importance of timely medical care. Organised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the day aims to educate people about the dangers of dengue and encourage collective efforts to control the spread of the disease, especially before the monsoon season when mosquito breeding increases significantly.
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲 |𝟏𝟔 𝐌𝐚𝐲
▪️National Dengue Day is being observed today in the country.
▪️The day aims to raise awareness and strengthen preventive pre-monsoon measures against the disease.
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) May 16, 2026
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus and spread primarily through the bite of the female Aedes aegypti mosquito. Unlike ordinary mosquitoes, Aedes mosquitoes usually bite during the daytime, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. The disease is common in tropical and subtropical regions, including many parts of India.
The symptoms of dengue typically include high fever, severe headache, body pain, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, and fatigue. In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which may become life-threatening if not treated on time. Health experts advise people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
One of the key messages of National Dengue Day is that prevention is the most effective way to fight dengue. Since there is no specific cure for the disease, controlling mosquito breeding and protecting oneself from mosquito bites are extremely important. Clean surroundings, proper waste disposal, and avoiding stagnant water are essential preventive measures because mosquitoes breed in water collected in coolers, flower pots, tyres, containers, and open drains.
People are encouraged to wear full-sleeved clothes, use mosquito repellents, install window screens, and sleep under mosquito nets whenever necessary. Community participation also plays a major role in dengue prevention, as maintaining hygiene in neighbourhoods and public spaces helps reduce mosquito populations.
Every year, government departments, hospitals, schools, and local authorities conduct awareness campaigns, health camps, rallies, and educational programs on National Dengue Day. These initiatives focus on informing citizens about symptoms, prevention strategies, and the importance of early diagnosis.
With climate change, rapid urbanisation, and changing environmental conditions contributing to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, dengue has become a major public health concern worldwide. National Dengue Day serves as a reminder that awareness, cleanliness, and timely action can save lives.
The fight against dengue is not just the responsibility of healthcare workers or governments alone; it requires active public participation. By staying informed and taking preventive measures seriously, communities can work together to reduce the spread of dengue and create a healthier environment for everyone.
After years of speculation and anticipation, the search for the next actor to portray iconic British spy James Bond has officially begun. With Daniel Craig’s departure from the franchise after No Time To Die, fans worldwide have been eagerly waiting to see who will step into the role of 007 in the next chapter of the legendary series.
Amazon MGM Studios confirmed on Thursday that the casting process for the new James Bond is now underway.
“The search for the next James Bond is under way,” the studio said in a statement.
According to Hollywood outlet Variety, auditions for the coveted role have been taking place in recent weeks, signaling that the long wait for Bond fans may finally be nearing its end.
“While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right,” Amazon added.
Among the names heavily linked to the role is actor Callum Turner, who has emerged as a strong contender to become the next 007.
It has been five years since the release of No Time to Die, which marked Daniel Craig’s final appearance as the iconic spy.
The Bond franchise entered a new era after Amazon MGM Studios assumed creative control 15 months ago. The studio has already announced that acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, known for Dune, will direct the next Bond film, while Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, has been tapped to write the screenplay.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s six-day, five-nation diplomatic tour, which began on May 15 with a successful visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is being viewed as one of India’s most significant strategic outreach missions in recent years. Covering the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy, the visit aims to deepen India’s partnerships in energy, technology, trade, defence and green innovation while reinforcing India’s growing role in global geopolitics.
The UAE leg of the visit already delivered major outcomes for India. PM Modi held extensive talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, resulting in several key agreements, including a Strategic Defence Partnership framework, long-term LPG supply arrangements and cooperation on strategic petroleum reserves. The UAE also announced multi-billion-dollar investments in Indian infrastructure and financial sectors, underlining the rapidly strengthening India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Following the UAE visit, PM Modi has now headed to Europe, where the focus shifts toward advanced technology, clean energy, semiconductors, maritime cooperation and economic partnerships.
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) May 15, 2026
Netherlands: Defence, Water Technology and Green Hydrogen
In the Netherlands, PM Modi is scheduled to meet King Willem-Alexander and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten. Discussions are expected to centre around defence cooperation, semiconductor manufacturing, green hydrogen, sustainable agriculture and water management technologies — an area where the Netherlands is globally recognised.
India is likely to seek greater Dutch investments in high-tech manufacturing and logistics under the “Make in India” initiative. Cooperation in port development and maritime connectivity may also feature prominently, given the strategic importance of Rotterdam as one of Europe’s largest ports. Analysts believe new agreements on renewable energy and advanced chip technologies could significantly support India’s technological ambitions.
Sweden and Norway: Innovation and the India-Nordic Summit
The next phase of the tour will take PM Modi to Sweden and Norway, where innovation, digital transformation and sustainable development will dominate discussions. A major highlight will be the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Norway on May 19, bringing together leaders from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
The Nordic countries are global leaders in clean energy, artificial intelligence, smart infrastructure and climate technologies. India is expected to push for deeper collaboration in green growth, electric mobility, Arctic research, fintech and digital governance. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) related to technology partnerships, startups, renewable energy and academic cooperation are likely to emerge from these meetings.
The summit also carries strategic importance because Nordic nations are increasingly viewing India as a reliable economic and geopolitical partner amid changing global supply chains and tensions in Europe and Asia.
Italy: Strengthening Strategic and Economic Cooperation
The final leg of the visit will take PM Modi to Italy, where he will hold talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The discussions are expected to build upon the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029 signed earlier.
Defence manufacturing, aerospace cooperation, artificial intelligence, energy transition and industrial partnerships are expected to be key areas of discussion. Italy has shown growing interest in expanding investments in India’s manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, while India sees Italy as an important gateway to deeper European economic engagement.
A Strategic Tour for India’s Global Vision
Overall, the tour reflects India’s broader diplomatic strategy of balancing strong ties with both the Gulf and Europe while pursuing strategic autonomy. The visit comes at a time when global supply chains, energy security and technological partnerships are becoming increasingly critical.
Experts believe the agreements, investments and strategic understandings likely to emerge from this tour could significantly benefit India’s economic growth, energy security and technological advancement. The visit also aligns closely with the government’s long-term vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” positioning India as a leading global economic and strategic power in the decades ahead.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the first stop of his six-day, five-nation diplomatic tour, holding extensive talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The visit resulted in a series of major agreements focused on defence cooperation, energy security, infrastructure and investment, underlining the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
The friendship between India and UAE is very strong! Our nations will keep working together with the aim of building a better future for our planet.@MohamedBinZayedpic.twitter.com/TzjU63GFll
PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, including a Guard of Honour. In a symbolic gesture reflecting strong bilateral ties, UAE F-16 fighter jets escorted the Prime Minister’s aircraft as it entered Emirati airspace.
During delegation-level talks, India and the UAE signed several significant agreements. These included a Framework Agreement for Strategic Defence Partnership, an MoU on Strategic Petroleum Reserves, and a pact ensuring long-term Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supplies to India. The two sides also agreed to establish a ship repair cluster at Vadinar in Gujarat, aimed at boosting maritime and logistics cooperation.
My brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and I discussed ways to deepen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and deepen ties in sectors like trade, energy and more. pic.twitter.com/vuKvJuKorl
A major highlight of the visit was the UAE’s announcement of nearly $5 billion in investments in Indian infrastructure projects, along with investments in RBL Bank and Samman Capital. The agreements are expected to deepen economic engagement and enhance India’s energy security at a time of global uncertainty and tensions in West Asia.
Addressing the current geopolitical situation in West Asia, PM Modi strongly condemned recent attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed India’s solidarity with the Gulf nation. He stated that “India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with UAE in every situation” and stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the best path toward restoring peace and stability in the region. He also emphasized the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz “free and open” for global trade and energy supplies.
The Prime Minister thanked the UAE leadership for its support toward the Indian diaspora and appreciated Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for strengthening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Modi noted that bilateral cooperation between the two countries had gained even greater importance in the present global environment.
Concluding a short but highly productive visit to the UAE. Held extensive discussions with my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on ways to further deepen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. I am confident that the outcomes of this visit will… pic.twitter.com/pfRyLcOe7s
Most families don’t begin with questions. They begin with a decision.
Someone at home needs support, and the immediate priority becomes finding help quickly. The process moves faster than expected. Calls are made, options are considered, and within days, a caregiver is finalised.
Only later do the questions begin.
In growing urban centres such as Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and other cities, families are becoming more aware of this pattern. Instead of rushing through the process, many are beginning to pause and think more carefully about what it truly means to bring a caretaker into their home.
Because the difference between a smooth arrangement and a difficult one often depends on what was understood at the beginning.
The Question Behind the Role
At first, the requirement seems simple: someone is needed to help at home.
But “help” can mean very different things.
For one family, it may involve basic day-to-day assistance. For another, it could mean managing medications, supporting mobility, or monitoring routines. Expectations are often assumed rather than clearly discussed — and that is where confusion usually begins.
Many families realise later that defining the role properly at the start would have made the decision much easier.
What Does a Normal Day Look Like?
This is one of the most important questions, yet it is rarely asked directly.
Instead of focusing only on experience, it helps to understand how a caregiver approaches a typical day. When do they step in? How do they manage routines? What do they prioritise?
These details reveal far more than a list of previous assignments.
Because caregiving is not simply about completing tasks. It is about how those tasks fit naturally into everyday life.
What Happens When Things Don’t Go as Planned?
No two days are exactly alike.
There are moments that fall outside routine — a sudden change in health, unexpected discomfort, or situations that simply feel different from normal.
In such moments, response matters more than instruction.
Families often discover that the way a caregiver handles uncertainty tells them more than anything discussed during the selection process.
How Naturally Do They Fit In?
This question is rarely asked openly, but it often becomes the deciding factor.
Every home has its own rhythm — the way people communicate, the timing of daily activities, even the small habits that go unnoticed until someone new enters the space.
A caregiver who adapts to that rhythm tends to feel like a natural presence. One who doesn’t can make even a well-planned arrangement feel difficult.
Can the Arrangement Evolve Over Time?
Caregiving is never static.
What works today may need to change a few months later. Needs evolve, routines shift, and expectations adjust with time.
Understanding whether a caregiver is comfortable adapting to those changes becomes important in the long run. The goal is not to get everything perfect immediately, but to build an arrangement that can improve and settle naturally over time.
Conclusion
Hiring a caregiver often feels urgent.
But caregiving itself is long-term.
The most important questions are not always the obvious ones. They are the questions that help families understand how care will feel every day — not just how it will function.
And when that clarity exists from the beginning, the entire experience becomes far easier to manage.
