When PM Modi secured his first decisive electoral mandate, just a year after becoming Gujarat CM

IANS | December 15, 2025 2:17 PM

New Delhi, Dec 15 (IANS) On this day in 2002, Narendra Modi delivered his first comprehensive electoral mandate, barely a year after assuming office as Gujarat Chief Minister. The landmark verdict not only reshaped Gujarat’s political landscape but also marked the emergence of Narendra Modi as a decisive and dominant leader. In the Assembly elections held that year, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) registered a sweeping landslide victory, winning 127 of the 182 seats. Newspapers of the time famously described the outcome as “Modi magic.”

Afghan returnees call for Taliban's support as winter approaches

IANS | December 15, 2025 1:39 PM

Kabul, Dec 15 (IANS) Refugees, who have recently returned to Afghanistan and are now residing in designated camps, have urged the Taliban to provide them shelter, employment opportunities and access to necessary supplies as the winter season is approaching.