INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No. 24 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday June 12, 2026 NDA meeting passes resolution highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s 12-year tenure New Delhi [India], June 10 (ANI): A resolution highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 12-year tenure in office was moved during the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) meeting held at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital on Wednesday, according to sources. The resolution was proposed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu, who spoke about Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and the milestones achieved during his tenure. The proposal focused on the Prime Minister’s 12 years in office and his role in providing stable governance and leadership to the country.The resolution was seconded by Nagaland Chief Minister and NPF leader Neiphiu Rio, who expressed support for the proposal and highlighted the NDA government’s efforts towards development and inclusive growth. Sources said the discussion around the resolution centred on Prime Minister Modi’s 12-year journey in public office, key policy initiatives undertaken during this period, and the NDA’s vision for the future.The resolution was presented in the presence of senior NDA leaders and chief ministers attending the alliance meeting at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared Jhalmuri with leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) during the meeting, where alliance partners congratulated him on becoming India’s longest-serving Prime Minister.The Prime Min- ister was warmly congratulated by the assembly of NDA leaders for becoming India’s longest-continuously serving Prime Minister. By completing 4,399 days in office, Prime Minister Modi has officially surpassed the previous record held by the nation’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Later, the Prime Minister and NDA leaders also posed for a group photograph at Bharat Mandapam.As of June 10, the Prime Minister has completed 4,399 days in office, officially surpassing the previous record held by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. sWhile India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, originally assumed office in 1947 and won the country’s first general election in 195152, he remained in office until his passing in 1964. Meanwhile, Indira Gandhi, India’s first woman Prime Minister, served for a little less than 16 years, but her tenure was spread across two separate stints.This achievement of PM Modi marks over twelve years of continuous leadership at the helm of the nation. In a statement ac- knowledging the occasion, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on Wednesday extended its warm congratulations to Prime Minister Modi as he achieved a historic milestone - becoming India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister in consecutive terms. Officials within the PMO highlighted the hallmark characteristics that have defined his tenure, noting that his administration has been defined by stability, transparency, and a resolute commitment to the nation’s progress. This momentous tenure has also witnessed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) transforming into the national political hegemon, consistently expanding its footprint to newer regions and attracting widespread support from myriad communities. (ANI) National award-winning Malayalam actor Salim Kumar passes away at 56 Kochi (Keralam) [India], June 7 (ANI): National Award winning Malayalam actor Salim Kumar has passed away at the age of 56, marking the end of an extraordinary career that spanned more than three decades in Indian cinema.He was reportedly rushed to Amrita Hospital in Kochi on Saturday, where he later passed away. The Government of Kerala confirmed the actor’s demise in an official communication expressing “profound grief” over the loss of the celebrated performer.In its statement, the government noted that Salim Kumar was a “renowned film actor” who won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for his performance Remember: “We in ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’. He had also received the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor for ‘Achanurangatha Veedu’ (2005). According to the government, the actor’s mortal remains will be kept for public homage at Paravur Town Hall from 9 am to 1 pm on June 7.The funeral will be held at 3 pm on the same day at his residence in North Paravur, Ernakulam. The Kerala government has decided to bear the expenses connected with the funeral and related arrangements. As a mark of respect, the government has also ordered official honours during the funeral. The District Collector will place a wreath on the mortal remains on should treat all the trivial things of life seriously, and all the serious things of life with sincere and studied triviality.” -Oscar Wilde behalf of the Government of Kerala, while the District Police Chief will arrange Police Honours with a bugle salute. One of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile performers, Salim Kumar built a remarkable legacy across more than 300 films, primarily in Malayalam cinema, while also appearing in select Tamil and Odia productions. He first became a household name through his distinctive comic performances, celebrated for impeccable timing, expressive body language and memorable dialogues, before evolving into one of the industry’s most respected character actors. His career was marked by several major honours. He won the National Film Award for Best Actor and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for his acclaimed portrayal of Abu in ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’. His other notable recognitions include the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor for ‘Achanurangatha Veedu’ (2005), Best Comedian for ‘Ayalum Njanum Thammil’ (2013), and Best Story for his directorial venture ‘Karutha Joothan’ (2017). Salim Kumar is survived by his wife Sunitha and their two sons, Chandu Salim Kumar, who is also an actor, and Aaromal Salim Kumar. “Lost someone who was like brother to me”: CM Satheesan recalls deep bond with Salim Kumar Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan paid his last respects to veteran Malayalam actor and National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar, whom he described as a brother. Salim Kumar passed away at the age of 56. The actor’s death has left the Malayalam film industry and his fans in mourning. Political leaders, film personalities, and admirers from across the country have paid tribute to the acclaimed actor. Speaking to the media, Satheesan remembered Salim Kumar not just as an actor but also as a close friend. Recalling their long association, he said, “Actor Salim Kumar had a face and expressions that Malayalis can never forget. I have lost someone who was like a brother to me. Since I came to Paravur, I have shared a deep bond with him and his family.”The Keralam CM also spoke about Salim Kumar’s support during election campaigns and his strong political beliefs. Remembering the actor’s commitment and friendship, he added, “Whenever I contested SALIM KUMAR SEE PAGE 2
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 Priti Sheth Honored with Takoma Park Legacy Business Award for Outstanding Community Service Takoma Park, Maryland — Priti Sheth, owner of Priti Fashions, widely known through its popular divisions Aanchal Boutique and Nina Jewelers, has been honored with the prestigious Legacy Business Award by the Mayor of Takoma Park in recognition of her decades of dedicated service, business excellence, and significant contributions to the local community. Takoma Park has long been recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the region, serving as home to generations of immigrants from around the world, including large communities of African, Asian, and particularly Indian heritage. For many years, Priti Fashions, Aanchal Boutique, and Nina Jewelers have played an important role in serving these diverse communities by providing high-quality products that reflect their cultural traditions, values, and evolving fashion preferences. Under the leadership of Priti Sheth, these establishments have earned an outstanding reputation for offering the latest fashion apparel, traditional and contemporary ethnic wear, and a wide selection of authentic gold, silver, and diamond jewelry. Customers from across Maryland, Virginia, and the Washington metropolitan area have come to trust the businesses for their quality, integrity, and commitment to excellence. Beyond her success as an entrepreneur, Priti Sheth has been widely recognized for her dedication to community service and her efforts to support immigrant families, cultural organizations, charitable initiatives, and community events. Through her businesses, she has helped preserve cultural traditions while fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, Priti Sheth has received numerous awards and accolades acknowledging both her business achievements and her community involvement. Among her most notable recognitions is the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented during the administration of President Joe Biden, honoring her exceptional volunteerism and contributions to society. In presenting the Legacy Business Award, the Mayor of Takoma Park praised Priti Sheth for her enduring commitment to the city, her entrepreneurial leadership, and her positive impact on generations of residents. The award recognizes businesses that have made lasting contributions to the economic, cultural, and social fabric of the community while demonstrating a sustained record of service and excellence. The recognition serves as a testament to the remarkable legacy that Priti Sheth has built through Priti Fashions, Aanchal Boutique, and Nina Jewelers. Her dedication to quality, customer service, cultural preservation, and community engagement has made her businesses trusted institutions within the region and an important part of Takoma Park’s diverse and vibrant community. As she receives this distinguished honor, Priti Sheth continues to inspire fellow entrepreneurs and community leaders through her unwavering commitment to service, integrity, and excellence, leaving a lasting impact that will be remembered for generations to come. Washington, DC [US], June 9 (ANI): A US federal judge on Monday (local time) blocked a proposal by President Donald Trump to impose a USD 100,000 fee on employers seeking to hire foreign workers for specialised roles under the H-1B visa programme. According to Politico, US District Judge Richard Stearns ruled that the president’s proposed payments for H-1B visa applications introduced through a September 2025 proclamation and swiftly implemented by the US State Department and the US Department of Homeland Security violated the principle of separation of powers. Trump and his allies have argued that the program has been exploited to bypass or lay off American workers in favour of hiring foreign employees for lower wages.” Abuses of the H-1B program present a national security threat by discouraging Americans from pursuing careers in science and technology, risking American leadership in these fields,” Trump contended in his proclamation. Stearns’ ruling came six months after a federal judge in Washington, D.C. had ruled in favour of the Trump administration in a similar case filed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, holding that Congress had given the president authority to impose the $100,000 fee. However, Judge Howell’s decision in that earlier case was issued before the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling in February, which later helped guide Stearns’ judgment. The H-1B visa program allows employers to petition for high-skilled foreign workers to temporarily fill positions in speciality occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree. In petitioning for an H-1B worker, the employer must submit an application, certified by US Judge blocks Trump’s $100K H-1B visa fee plan the US Department of Labour, that employment of the H-1B worker will not negatively affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed US workers, according to the State of California Department of Justice. The US Congress limits the number of H-1B visas available each year for most private employers, with the current cap set at 65,000, with an exemption of 20,000 for individuals with a master’s degree or higher. Since its inception, the H-1B visa program has been continually tailored by Congress to carry out its purpose of meeting employers’ labor needs, while protecting the interests of American workers to ensure that they are not wrongfully displaced. Congress has repeatedly enhanced enforcement, increased penalties, and legislated on fees for H-1B petitions to prevent misuse of the program. Congress has also adapted the program to ensure that it is especially beneficial to many government and non-profit organizations in fulfilling their public service missions, exempting them from the 65,000-person cap. In September, Trump issued a proclamation imposing an unprecedented USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, undermining the very purpose of the H-1B visa by making it harder to address severe labour shortages in critical fields such as education and healthcare, ultimately worsening the staffing crisis. As implemented by DHS through a series of written documents, the policy affects any application filed after September 21, 2025, and grants the Secretary of Homeland Security broad discretion to determine which petitions are subject to the fee or for an exemption, raising concerns that the enforcement could be applied selectively against employers disfavored by the Trump Administration, according to the State of California Department of Justice. (ANI)
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 3 Priti’s Fashion and Jewelry Nina Jewelers 301-806-0567; 301-431-7430 Since 1991 Exclusive 22Kt Gold Jewelry, Ruby Emerald and Diamond Jewelry, 24Kt Coins and Bars Convert your gold jewelry to new designs We repair broken jewelry; We can polish and buff old jewelry to make it new AANCHAL SAREES 301-434-3029 • Artificial Jewelry • Lehengas • Sarees • Kaftans • Salwar Kamez • Children’s wear • Men’s wear and much more Visit: Priti’s Fashion and Jewelry (Nina Jewelers) 1157 University Blvd. E, Takoma Park, MD 20912 (Hampshire Langley Shopping Center) Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 11:am-7:00pm Monday Closed
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 Yvette Cooper wraps up India visit, holds talks on cooperating on areas of common ground London [UK], June 7 (ANI): UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has wrapped up her visit to India and China, a statement by the UK government said.Cooper underlined the need for the UK to be engaged with other serious players on the world stage, to make sure the UK was at the centre of dialogue and debate on the international issues that are shaping the world today. As per the statement, she underlined that the UK cannot insulate itself from global issues through “cancel culture” on foreign policy and not engaging in vital global discussions. It must instead have conversations with key interlocutors that further the UK national interest, cooperating on areas of common ground and challenging in areas where we disagree. These conver- sations are rooted in the UK’s international approach that strong, purposeful engagement on the world stage is the best way to deliver growth and security for the British people. Going onto New Delhi on Thursday, the Foreign Secretary drove forward work on issues that are vital to UK prosperity, speaking to the Indian Government about maritime security, growth and keeping supply chains secure from global economic shocks. In meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Foreign Secretary built on the strategic direction and vision for deeper cooperation built by the Prime Minister under Vision 2035. She highlighted the crucial need to work together on the Strait of Hormuz and easing the impact its closure is having on in- ternational shipping. As part of that, the Foreign Secretary colaunched a new Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence (RMSCE), bolstering the UK’s cooperation with India on maritime security and resilience to international shocks, as per the statement. Critical minerals also formed a key part of talks with Indian interlocutors. On the visit, the FS underlined the UK’s commitment to working with partners to create more diverse and resilient supply chains. Critical minerals are essential to the UK’s current and future prosperity, as necessary components in everything from electric vehicles and wind turbines to smartphones, the statement said. During her meeting with G Kishan Reddy, India’s Minister for Coal and Mines, the Foreign Secretary launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCO). A flagship component of the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, this Observatory provides a groundbreaking AI tool that gives real-time information on global critical mineral flows and identifies supply chain vulnerabilities. As part of the GSCO, India will commit 1.2 million Euros of funding to establish a satellite observatory campus at the Indian Institute of Technology in Dhanbad with the University of Cambridge. (ANI) 20 Trinamool Congress MPs Seek Alignment With NDA, Claims Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar KOLKATA, India, June 8 — In a significant political development, nearly 20 Trinamool Congress (TMC) Members of Parliament have formally indicated their intention to break away from the party’s current political direction and support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar confirmed the development to ANI on Monday, responding with a thumbsup emoji. “A total of 20 TMC Members of Parliament have formally addressed a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressing their desire to extend support to the NDA, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape of West Bengal and national parliamentary dynamics,” Dastidar said. The development comes amid growing internal turmoil within the party following its defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections, which resulted in the state electing its first BJP-led government under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The rift was on full display Monday as TMC chief Mamata Banerjee arrived in New Delhi for an INDIA bloc meeting at the Constitution Club. While Banerjee, national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, and other senior party leaders attended the opposition gathering, a group of dissident lawmakers met separately. The rebel MPs, including Rajya Sabha member Sukhendu Shekhar Ray, who submitted his resignation earlier in the day, gathered at the Motilal Nehru Marg residence of Union Minister and BJP West Bengal election in-charge Bhupender Yadav. The meeting was also attended by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The dissident faction’s move appears aimed at navigating the legal requirements of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. By securing the support of approximately 20 MPs, the group claims to have crossed the twothirds threshold required under the anti-defection law’s merger provision. If recognized by parliamentary authorities, the faction could seek protection from disqualification and for- mally align itself with the NDA. Under India’s anti-defection law, a faction must command at least two-thirds of a party’s parliamentary strength to avoid disqualification. With the TMC holding 28 Lok Sabha seats, the support of at least 19 MPs would be required to meet that threshold. The unfolding developments represent one of the most significant parliamentary challenges faced by the TMC leadership and signal a potentially volatile new phase in West Bengal politics. Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) leadership has rejected Dastidar’s claim that she remains the party’s Chief Whip and reiterated that Kalyan Banerjee was officially appointed to the position last month. Highlighting Banerjee’s appointment, the party cited a letter dated May 20, 2026, and stated, “This is the letter to the Speaker on the appointment of Kalyan as Chief Whip sent last month. In the current scenario, Kakoli’s letter holds no value.” The letter, ad- dressed to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, formally informed him of Kalyan Banerjee’s appointment as Chief Whip of the AITC in the Lok Sabha. “I write to you as the Founder Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress, and the Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress Parliamentary Party. This is to inform you that Kalyan Banerjee has been appointed as Chief Whip of the All India Trinamool Congress in the Lok Sabha with immediate effect. This is for your information and necessary action. Thank you so much for your cooperation,” Mamata Banerjee wrote. Questioning the legitimacy of the dissident faction, the AITC also challenged the existence of any formal communication submitted to the Speaker bearing the signatures of the rebel lawmakers. “Also, where is the letter along with signatures to the Speaker written by the so-called rebel group?” the party asked. While the rebel camp insists it has secured the required support and maintains that Dastidar is its Chief Whip, the AITC continues to reject those claims and uphold its official organizational structure. Earlier, Dastidar resigned as president of the All India Trinamool Mahila Congress on May 28, citing concerns over alleged misogynistic behavior within the party and other issues that she said had deeply troubled her conscience. The latest de- velopments come amid a broader rebellion led by expelled TMC MLA Ritabrata Banerjee in the West Bengal Assembly. Banerjee, who was expelled from the party for alleged anti-party activities, formed a separate faction in the state assembly with the support of 58 MLAs. He was later elected Leader of the Opposition, replacing Sobhandev Chattopadhyay. TO PLACE ADVERTISEMENTS CALL: 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 E MAIL: INDIATHISWEEKADS@GMAIL . COM WEB: I NDIATHISWEEK .US
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 National award-winning Malayalam actor Salim Kumar passes away at 56 SALIM KUMAR FROM PAGE 1 elections, he was always with me, even cancelling his shooting schedules. It was Salim Kumar who inaugurated all my election committee offices. Salim Kumar was a person with firm political awareness. From his student days until his last breath, he remained a Congressman with strong political conviction.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the actor’s demise and paid tribute to his contribution to Indian cinema.In a post on X, the Prime Minister remembered Salim Kumar’s memorable performances across different roles and wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran actor Shri Salim Kumar Ji. Over the course of a distinguished career, he made a mark with his versatility and memorable performances across a wide range of roles. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”A respected name in Malayalam cinema, Salim Kumar worked in the film industry for more than three decades and appeared in over 300 films. “Great loss”: Politicians, film fraternity mourn demise of veteran actor Sal Thiruvananthapuram (Keralam) [India], June 7 (ANI): Tributes poured in for acclaimed Malayalam actor Salim Kumar after his demise at the age of 56, with political leaders and colleagues from the film industry remembering him as one of Kerala’s finest performers and an influential figure in Malayalam cinema.Congress The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- June 12, 2026 Life is Brief But to be severed from the source of life is to lose your Eternal Destiny By Rajan George God gives life, which He can reclaim at will; There is nothing man can do against the Divine plan. Yet each one is born with a purpose from God; He who discovers it lives well, while others are lost. We know not what God has planned for us, Yet He has empowered us with a noble pursuit: To unravel not only His plan for our lives, But also to pursue our goal of eternal life. Some of us may find it hard to believe, For truth may challenge our traditions; Yet even those who reluctantly seek it Are sure to find what they are searching for. Truth is only a handbreadth away, Hidden from us, yet lingering close, Ready to reveal itself before us If only we earnestly seek. Life is short, uncertain, and fleeting; The cord that links us to life’s Source Could break when we least expect, ending Our only opportunity to claim eternal destiny. Man has but one life, with the power either To destroy himself or to extend beyond this life. If severed from the Divine Source, Forever then we shall for ever cease to be There is only one who has life, who gives to all He said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, No one goes to the Father, except through me And that is Jesus Christ! general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal remembered the late actor on Sunday, calling his death a great loss to Kerala’s film industry. Speaking to ANI, he said, “He was the most talented actor of Kerala. Even though he was a film actor, every time he used to campaign for the Congress party. It is a great loss for the Congress party also…”Actor Jayan Cherthala also mourned the demise of the late actor, saying, “He has acted in more than 300 movies… He was suffering from certain internal organ-related problems for the last 3 to 4 years… All the film fraternity people are here to give him respect… “Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh added, “A very famous Malayalam artist, Salim Kumar, has passed away… He was also associated with the Congress party… Salim Kumar is one of the most important artists in the Malayalam film in- INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online dustry…” His mortal remains were brought to his residence, where family members, friends, political leaders and admirers gathered to pay their last respects. Salim Kumar, one of Malayalam cinema‘s most versatile performers, passed away at the age of 56 after reportedly being rushed to Amrita Hospital in Kochi on Saturday. His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, film personalities and fans across the state. “Your passing away is an endless sorrow”: Mammootty offers emotional tribute to National Award winner Salim Kumar Malayalam superstar Mammootty has offered his heartfelt condolences following the passing of National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar.Salim Kumar passed away on Saturday night at the age of 56.In an X post, Mammootty described Salim Kumar’s demise as an “endless sorrow.” “Salim, who used to make you laugh and make you laugh, think and make you think, and sometimes cry and make you cry, now you only make me cry……….. Your passing away is an endless sorrow, brother,” he wrote.Salim Kumar, one of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile performers, passed away at the age of 56 after reportedly being rushed to Amrita Hospital in Kochi on Saturday. His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, film personalities and fans across the state. The Government of Kerala confirmed the actor’s demise and expressed “profound grief” over the loss of the celebrated performer. In an official statement, the government described him as a “renowned film actor” and highlighted his National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for his acclaimed performance in Adaminte Makan Abu. His mortal remains were kept at Paravur Town Hall from 9 am to 1 pm on Sunday to allow the public to pay their last respects. Kumar was cremated with State honours at his residence in North Paravur, Ernakulam district in Keralam, on Sunday in the presence of family members, colleagues, political leaders and admirers. He is survived by his wife Sunitha and their two sons, Chandu Salim Kumar and Aaromal Salim Kumar. A respected name in Malayalam cinema, Salim Kumar worked in the film industry for more than three decades and appeared in over 300 films. He first became popular for his comedy roles before earning praise for his performances in serious and emotional roles. He won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for Adaminte Makan Abu.He also received the Keralam State Film Award for Second Best Actor for Achanurangatha Veedu and was appreciated for films such as Ayalum Njanum Thammil. He also directed ‘Karutha Joothan’. (ANI) Remember: “In the Beginning was the Word, The Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made, that was made” JOHN 1:1-3
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 India Expands Nuclear Arsenal to About 190 Warheads, SIPRI Report Says NEW DELHI, June 8 — India slightly expanded its nuclear arsenal in 2025 and continued developing new nuclear delivery systems, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI) Yearbook 2026 released Monday. The report estimates that India’s nuclear stockpile grew to approximately 190 warheads by early 2026, widening its lead over neighboring Pakistan, whose arsenal is estimated to remain smaller but continues to expand through the accumulation of fissile material and the development of new delivery systems. SIPRI said India’s nuclear modernization program is increasingly focused on developing longrange weapons capable of reaching targets across China, while continuing to address its longstanding strategic rivalry with Pakistan. The report described Operation Sindoor and the India-Pakistan military confrontation in May 2025 as “an unusually severe military crisis” between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. According to SIPRI, India struck Pakistani air and missile bases that were likely connected to nuclear-related roles during the conflict. However, the institute noted that both countries took steps to prevent further escalation. The report also highlighted that India and Pakistan incorporated cyber operations into active military conflict for the first time during the crisis, underscoring the evolving nature of deterrence and modern warfare. India retained its position as the world’s fifth-largest military spender in 2025, with defense expenditures reaching $92.1 billion, an increase of 8.9% from the previous year. Only the United States, China, Russia, and Germany spent more on defense. SIPRI also identified India as the world’s second-largest importer of major arms during the 2021–25 period. India accounted for 8.2% of global arms imports, trailing only Ukraine among recipient nations. The institute said 162 countries imported major arms during the period, with Ukraine, India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Pakistan accounting for 35% of total imports worldwide. The report noted that the world’s nine nuclear-armed states — the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel — are increasingly relying on nuclear weapons as instru- White House AI Adviser Sriram Krishnan to Step Down at End of June WASHINGTON, June 7 (ANI) — White House artificial intelligence policy adviser Sriram Krishnan announced Saturday that he will leave his position at the end of June. In a post on X, Krishnan said, “I’ll be leaving my role at the White House at the end of this month. After a break, I’ll be working on helping tackle some of the large challenges facing America on AI. It is hard to express how big a privilege it has been to serve the American people and how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to do so.” He also praised President Donald Trump, saying, “Without his leadership, we would not be leading in the AI race.” Krishnan highlighted several accomplishments during his 18-month tenure, including helping develop the American AI Action Plan, advancing AI acceleration partnerships, and contributing to the National AI Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence executive order. “Second, I owe a lot to the person I’ve worked most closely with over the last 18 months — David Sacks. His continuing advocacy for America winning on AI has been and continues to be crucial,” Krishnan wrote. He cited several achievements he was particularly proud of, including architecting and publishing the American AI Action Plan, establishing AI acceleration partnerships to strengthen the American AI technology ecosystem globally, helping develop the National AI Policy Framework, and advocating for U.S. AI interests with international allies during AI summits and state visits. Reflecting on the future, Krishnan said the past 18 months had given him a front-row seat to the critical challenges facing the United States and its allies in the AI sector. “Whether it is energy, data centers, or a clear path for Americans to experience the benefits of AI, there are many tough issues we all need to navigate together. I plan on building institutions that help tackle some of those challenges for America and its allies,” he said. K r ishnan also expressed gratitude to colleagues throughout the administration for their support and collabora- tion and thanked his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy, for her support throughout his tenure. “This journey has been the privilege of a lifetime and shown me how special this country is and how it needs all of us to contribute in any way we can — and I plan on continuing to do just that,” he said. According to The Washington Post, White House spokesman Kush Desai said Krishnan played a vital role in the administration’s technology agenda. “After leaving behind his immensely successful private-sector career, Sriram has been a critical asset for the White House and President Trump’s push to cement American dominance in technology and innovation,” Desai said, adding that the administration looks forward to continuing to work with him in his next venture. Krishnan helped design the administration’s AI Action Plan, which outlined a roadmap to ease regulations on emerging technologies and support the expansion of data centers nationwide. He was also among Trump’s technology advisers involved in drafting an executive order that limited states’ ability to regulate artificial intelligence, according to The Washington Post. (ANI) ments of national power, reversing decades of efforts aimed at reducing the role and number of nuclear weapons. As of January 2026, the nine nuclear powers collectively possessed an estimated 12,187 nuclear warheads. Of those, approximately 9,745 were held in military stockpiles and considered potentially available for use. SIPRI estimated that around 4,012 warheads were deployed with operational forces, while between 2,100 and 2,200 warheads were maintained on high operational alert aboard ballistic missiles. “Overall, the number of nuclear warheads in the world continues to decline, but this is only due to the USA and Russia dismantling retired warheads,” SIPRI said. The institute added that the pace of dismantling retired warheads appears to be slowing and may soon be overtaken by the rate at which new warheads enter global stockpiles. The United States and Russia continue to possess nearly 86% of the world’s nuclear weapons and are both pursuing extensive modernization programs. China is also rapidly expanding its arsenal. SIPRI estimated that China’s nuclear stockpile increased from approximately 600 to as many as 620 warheads during 2025. The report noted that nuclear weapons rely on fissile materials such as highly enriched uranium or separated plutonium. India and Israel have primarily produced plutonium for their nuclear weapons programs. SIPRI also highlighted the growing proliferation of submarine-based nuclear delivery systems, particularly among the four nuclear-armed states in the Indo-Pacific region. Beyond nuclear developments, the report said the number of interstate armed conflicts doubled from three in 2024 to six in 2025. The conflicts involved at least 13 countries and included Afghanistan-Pakistan, Cambodia-Thailand, India-Pakistan, Iran-Israel/ United States, Russia/ North Korea-Ukraine, and Congo-Rwanda. In his introduction to the report, SIPRI Director Karim Haggag said the global strategic environment has been fundamentally reshaped over the past decade. “The most recent decade has fundamentally altered the strategic environment,” Haggag wrote. “The distinguishing feature of this current phase of great power competition relates to two overarching drivers: the resurgence of large-scale interstate war between technologically advanced states and the erosion of the United States’ alliance frameworks.” The report added that the security environment across Asia and Oceania in 2025 continued to be shaped by intensifying strategic competition between China and the United States.
INDIA THIS WEEK 9
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