In travels of Buddha's sacred relics, India's soft power outreach

Buddha's sacred relics brought unprecedented crowds to Leh, causing a huge traffic jam. This event, like a similar one in 1950 after the war, is seen as India's "soft power" move. The relics helped lift spirits, showing how India uses Buddhist heritage for cultural diplomacy.

'India has signed deal with Vietnam for supply of BrahMos': Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh

India has signed a deal to supply BrahMos missiles to Vietnam, with a similar deal for Indonesia in the final stages. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed this, stating, "it has already been signed." This move highlights India's growing role as a defence exporter and its commitment to friendly nations in the region.

Parliament has become a private club

Parliament is like a private club, with many politicians coming from political families. The writer is happy the Delhi Gymkhana Club lease was cancelled, hoping it starts a movement against privilege. They said, "the most entitled and privileged private club in Lutyens' Delhi is not the Gymkhana but the Lok Sabha."

Opposition, Mahayuti allies target police and excise department over hooch tragedy

Political parties are angry after 16 people died from bad liquor. They are blaming the police and excise department for not stopping illegal liquor sales. Shiv Sena workers even destroyed some illegal stalls. A leader said, "Nearly 16 people have lost their lives after consuming poisonous liquor." They want strict action against those responsible.