Kiren Rijiju: 'Modi Ji Has Transformed My Own Working System'

A special broadcast reviews the political journey of the Prime Minister from selling tea at Vadnagar railway station in Gujarat to leading the nation for over twelve consecutive years. The report outlines major governance initiatives undertaken during this tenure, including Jan Dhan, Swachh Bharat, UPI, and Ayushman Bharat. It further highlights the roadmap focused on self-reliance through Atmanirbhar Bharat, alongside long-term national development goals set for Viksit Bharat by 2047.

In this India First panel discussion, former NSDC CEO Jayant Krishna, former US Assistant Secretary Raymond Vickery Jr., and Sandip Unnithan analyse the ramifications of potential US tariffs on Indian crude oil imports from Russia. Jayant Krishna noted that 'India has a Hobson's choice' given the closure of key shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and supply disruptions from other regional suppliers. The discussion outlines how energy demand and rising global oil prices compel India to prioritise economic stability and national interest, while exploring the wider repercussions for bilateral trade agreements and strategic ties between New Delhi and Washington.

The United States House of Representatives has passed a new sanctions legislation empowering the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, placing countries such as India and China directly in the line of fire. Cleared by a vote of 262 to 159, the bill targets Russia's energy sector, leadership, and shadow fleet, while authorizing steep tariffs on the five largest importers of Russian energy. The legislation, which previously cleared the Senate, now awaits presidential signature. In response, India stated it is closely monitoring developments and affirmed its commitment to securing energy for its 1.4 billion citizens through diversified sources. New Delhi flagged the potential impact on bilateral relations and global energy markets, maintaining that it will take all necessary measures to protect national economic interests. Meanwhile, domestic stock markets showed resilience as the benchmark index gained in trade following the announcement.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates his 76th birthday, wishes have poured in from world leaders across the globe. Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Modi's political wisdom and his role in strengthening the India-Russia strategic partnership. Birthday greetings also arrived from the United States on behalf of President Donald Trump, as well as from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who highlighted the deepening India-Italy friendship. Leaders from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Switzerland, and the Netherlands also extended warm greetings, commending India's leadership and its expanding presence on the global stage.