demographic transition

Actor-entrepreneur Akshay Jha is taking independent cinema beyond traditional theatrical spaces with his initiative, Cinema Salon. After working in films like Mission Mangal and Class of '83, Jha shifted focus towards creating a platform that connects filmmakers directly with audiences through curated screenings and discussions. Speaking about the challenges faced by indie films, he says distribution remains tougher than filmmaking itself. With Cinema Salon expanding internationally to cities like Madrid, Cannes and Berlin, Jha hopes to create a more immersive and community-driven film-viewing experience that prioritises storytelling and audience engagement.

Odisha is establishing the Odisha Resource Center for Ageing & Divyangjan (ORCAD) to oversee welfare for the elderly and differently-abled. This center will anchor a statewide multi-tier governance system, ensuring beneficiaries access schemes and services through a unified data and Care ID system. ORCAD aims to coordinate across departments, address demographic transition needs, and foster convergence for effective interventions.

On the economic front,Bengal is now likely to get a lot of help from Centre. But carrying out some parts of BJP’s ideological work, may face stiff resistance

Following Suvendu Adhikari's swearing-in as West Bengal's first BJP chief minister, Muslim communities in Kolkata expressed watchful apprehension over political representation and social security. While acknowledging the democratic mandate, they emphasized expectations of equal treatment and governance for all citizens, assessing the new government by its actions.

Nestlé India is set to become a top five global market within five years, driven by strong growth and sustained investments. Despite rising input costs and potential demand moderation, the company aims for volume-led growth, prioritizing brand support and innovation over significant price hikes.

The 2026 election results in Bengal are a watershed moment that goes beyond simply altering the ruling party; it highlights the disintegration of a longstanding political regime. The BJP's sweeping triumph, driven by issues of illegal crossings and adjustments to voter lists, reflects a rising call for firmer governance.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has cemented the BJP's dominance in Assam, securing a third consecutive term with a commanding mandate. His strategic brilliance, combining organizational depth, alliances, and welfare outreach, has transformed the state's political landscape, effectively dismantling the Congress's long-standing influence and establishing a new political order.

Rashbehari's election heats up as Trinamool's Debasish Kumar faces a strong challenge from BJP's Swapan Dasgupta. Despite Kumar's local roots and past wins, a narrow LS lead for Trinamool in the area signals a tight contest. Both candidates are actively campaigning, addressing issues from slum development to alleged corruption and extortion.

Amidst global supply chain disruptions, India's economic leaders are prioritizing domestic strength. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the vast Indian consumer base as a key defense, while industry titans emphasised strategic self-reliance in manufacturing and a pivot to green energy. This approach aims to leverage India's demographic dividend and workforce to navigate international volatility and accelerate national growth.

Today’s polling will largely be about the disenfranchisement under SIR of 27 lakh voters who had all proof of voting rights

A new health report reveals over half of Indians under 30 are now overweight or obese, a concerning trend accelerating with sedentary lifestyles and poor diets. This early weight gain significantly increases the risk of metabolic diseases like fatty liver and diabetes at younger ages, posing a long-term public health challenge for the nation.

Parliament considers crucial delimitation bills, raising concerns for democratic legitimacy and India's federal balance. These proposals could alter political power distribution significantly. The article argues for careful deliberation and public consultation before any constitutional changes are enacted. Statesmanship demands scrutiny, not speed, to ensure fairness and preserve the Union's integrity.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung emphasized close collaboration with India as emerging global leaders amidst geopolitical uncertainty. He highlighted shared values and complementary economies, advocating for upgraded trade agreements, defense industrial cooperation, and joint ventures in critical minerals and shipbuilding to foster mutual growth and innovation.

The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents will vote on terminating system president Jay Rothman, who declined an offer to resign and demanded reasons for the move. Board President Amy Bogost stated discussions have been ongoing for months, framing the decision as a necessary alignment with evolving higher education priorities amid broader system leadership changes.

Assam's upcoming elections are a crucial referendum on Assamese nationalism, identity, and the state's political future. Regional parties face declining relevance as national parties dominate, with the BJP's 'jati, mati, bheti' plank and 'Brand Himanta' shaping the narrative. The Congress leads a broad opposition alliance, aiming to challenge the incumbent government amidst evolving identity politics.

Kerala's IUML, a key UDF constituent, is undergoing a significant transition, focusing on consolidating Muslim votes while expanding its appeal across communities. The party has initiated a generational shift with new faces and women candidates, signaling a pragmatic approach to remain relevant in a polarized political landscape.

Peoria Unified School District will close Kachina Elementary and Pioneer Elementary in the 2026–27 school year due to declining enrollment and budget pressures, with students reassigned to nearby schools. The decision follows public hearings and is part of a broader restructuring plan that includes changes to high school models and expansion of specialized academies. Superintendent Dr. K.C. Somers has also resigned, effective June 12, to take a new position elsewhere, marking a major leadership transition.