Weekly News Highlights: Iran-Israel Conflict, Haryana Elections, Economic Insights, And More

This week saw significant developments in both international diplomacy and domestic politics. Here are the top news stories from September 29 to October 5.

PM Modi and Jamaican PM Discuss ‘Cricket Diplomacy’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Tuesday, emphasizing the strong cultural ties between India and Jamaica through the soft power of cricket. Both leaders hailed the role of cricket in strengthening people-to-people connections. Holness praised India's prowess in cricket and highlighted Jamaica's excellence in athletics, creating opportunities for mutual exchange and cooperation.

Harsh Winter Ahead: IMD Warns as La Niña Emerges

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a harsh winter for northwest and central India, with La Niña conditions expected to develop by October-November. IMD also reported a delayed withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, which ended with 8% surplus rainfall for the June-September period. The monsoon withdrawal is now expected to complete by October 17.

India Calls for Dialogue Amid Iran-Israel Tensions

As tensions rise in West Asia due to missile strikes from Iran on Israel, India urged for restraint and emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern over the escalating situation and called for the protection of civilians. India stressed that the conflict should not widen into a regional crisis and must be resolved through peaceful means.

Shah Rukh Khan Wins Best Actor Award at IIFA 2024

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan won the Best Actor award for his role in Jawan at the IIFA 2024 awards held in Abu Dhabi. A viral video captured Khan’s heartwarming gesture as he touched filmmaker Mani Ratnam's feet and embraced music composer AR Rahman while receiving the award, highlighting his humility and respect.

Modi Government Grants Classical Language Status to Five Indian Languages

On Thursday, the government granted classical language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed the decision as historic, emphasizing the government's efforts to preserve the rich heritage of Indian languages. Previously, Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia held the classical language status.

Marital Rape Matters Require Comprehensive Approach, Says Centre

The Centre informed the Supreme Court that matters related to marital rape will have significant socio-legal implications and need a comprehensive approach beyond just a legal framework. This submission was made in an affidavit filed before the apex court.

India Updates on Citizens in Conflict Zones

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provided an update on Indian citizens in Israel, Iran, and Lebanon. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that flights from these regions are still operational, and evacuation plans have not been initiated. Approximately 30,000 Indians, mainly caregivers and workers, are in Israel, while Iran and Lebanon have 10,000 and 3,000 Indian nationals, respectively.

S Jaishankar to Attend SCO Summit in Pakistan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will visit Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, scheduled for October 15-16 in Islamabad. This marks the first high-level visit from an Indian official to Pakistan in a decade, highlighting the significance of this diplomatic engagement.

PM Modi on India's Economic Transformation

Addressing the Kautilya Economic Conclave, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's economic transformation amid global challenges, stating that the country is in a “sweet spot” for sustained growth. He discussed the global importance of energy security, referencing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia and their impact on the world economy.

Haryana Assembly Elections: Key Candidates and Stakes

The Haryana Assembly elections took place on Saturday, with 1,031 candidates vying for seats in the 90-member assembly. Key candidates include Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Bhupinder Singh Hooda. The ruling BJP is aiming for a third consecutive victory, while the Congress hopes for a comeback. Votes will be counted on October 8.

Amit Shah Urges Haryana to Vote for a Corruption-Free Future Amid High-Stakes Election

Mumbai on High Alert: IMD Issues High Tide Warning Amid Heavy Rains

Today's Weather Update: IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert for East Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and