Baloch activist's persecution demonstrates Pakistan’s 'Hard State' doctrine evolving into model of governance: Report

IANS | July 5, 2026 7:35 PM

Islamabad, July 5 (IANS) An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan's Quetta sentenced Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch to life imprisonment, sparking criticism from international human rights organisations and reigniting concerns over the trajectory of the rule of law in the country. However, the case has demonstrated how Pakistan's "Hard State" doctrine is evolving from a counterterrorism strategy into a broader model of governance, a report has detailed.

How tribal women from ITIs became part of India's semiconductor story

IANS | July 5, 2026 6:33 PM

Ahmedabad, July 5 (IANS) The start of commercial semiconductor chip production at CG Semi's Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility in Gujarat's Sanand has brought into focus the role of young women from tribal regions of Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi citing their contribution as an example of India's emerging skilled manufacturing workforce.

Centre releases Rs 25,863 crore to states under VB-G-RAM-G scheme

IANS | July 5, 2026 2:54 PM

New Delhi, July 5 (IANS) Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday released the first instalment of Rs 25,863 crore to the states for the implementation of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G-RAM-G) scheme.

'Do not be afraid': PM Modi encourages newly recruited constable at Rajasthan event

IANS | July 4, 2026 7:58 PM

Balotra, July 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday handed over appointment letters to five newly recruited government employees during the inauguration of the Pachpadra Refinery in Rajasthan's Balotra district. The interaction turned into an emotional moment when the Prime Minister stopped a nervous police constable from hurriedly leaving the stage and encouraged him to remain confident.

US weighs tax relief for college athletes

IANS | July 2, 2026 10:54 PM

Washington, July 2 (IANS) US lawmakers have called for reforms to protect college athletes from crippling tax bills as the explosive growth of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals leaves many young sports stars struggling to navigate a complex tax system without adequate guidance.