Yoga Day: DMDK leader Vijayakanth's 'big stretch'

Speaking at the Berlin Global Dialogue, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal challenged European delegates regarding their historical responsibility for global carbon emissions and climate change. Goyal pointed out that India supports seventeen per cent of the world's population while contributing less than three per cent to global carbon emissions. Contrasting this with Europe's higher per capita environmental footprint, he questioned who caused damage to the ozone layer and emitted carbon during centuries of economic growth. Highlighting India's expanding clean energy programme, the minister underscored the necessity of meeting the energy, food, and security needs of 1.4 billion citizens while promoting a circular economy.

At the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Sammelan in Delhi, discussions highlighted the return of stolen artefacts and sacred deities to the country following diplomatic interactions. The gathering of spiritual leaders and attendees welcomed the focus on preserving ancient cultural heritage and celebrating traditional rituals without defensiveness. Emphasis was placed on self-reliance, extending beyond defence into the cultural sphere, alongside the continuous efforts made over recent years to safeguard and reclaim historical treasures. The event maintained a focus on national culture, heritage, and tradition rather than political targeting.

Addressing the gathering, the speaker highlighted the nationwide cultural renaissance underway across India, citing the transformation of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya, Mahakal Mahalok in Ujjain, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, including the installation of Adi Shankaracharya's statue. Over the past 12 years, more than 650 stolen ancient idols have been repatriated to the country from abroad, while numerous cultural centres have gained recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Pointing to the legacy of Swami Chinmayananda and the creation of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial initiated by Eknath Ranade, the speech underscored education in the mother tongue, modern science, and technology. Emphasising national self-reliance and unity against divisive forces, the address linked the Chinmaya Mission centenary with India completing 100 years of independence in 2047 under the shared goal of building a Viksit Bharat.

Speaking to India Today, Robert Vadra addressed the controversy surrounding the sudden cancellation of his son Rehan Vadra's photography exhibition at Bikaner House in Delhi. Vadra stated that all required protocols had been strictly followed and that a comprehensive PDF file containing the display material had been submitted a week in advance without any initial objections. Criticising the administration's last-minute intervention, he said, "They did not do their due diligence," noting that authorities demanded the removal of around 75 photographs barely three hours before the inauguration. Vadra described the subsequent shutdown and threats to turn off the lights by 9 pm as embarrassing and intimidating. Rejecting claims that political material was sneaked in, he maintained that Rehan had exhibited at the venue for six years following due procedure. Vadra also expressed sadness that authorities were targeting younger family members, while asserting that his son remained resilient and would showcase his work elsewhere.