Narendra Modi refers to his Guyana trip during Mann Ki Baat address. Photo Courtesy: PIB
PM Narendra Modi said a ‘Mini India’ resides in Guyana and the Indian-origin people are leading in every sector in the country.
Modi recently visited Guyana as a part of his three-nation tour.
Addressing India in his monthly radio address named Mann Ki Baat, Modi said: “Thousands of kilometres away from India, a ‘Mini India’ dwells in Guyana too.”
“Around 180 years ago, people from India were taken to Guyana to work in the fields and for other tasks,” the Indian PM said on Sunday during the monthly address.
Modi said: “Today, people of Indian origin in Guyana are leading the country in every field… be it politics, business, education or culture.”
He said Guyanese President Irfan Ali is proud of his Indian heritage.
Speaking on the project in Oman, Modi said: “You will also find an extraordinary project going on in Oman very interesting. Numerous Indian families have been living in Oman for many centuries. Most of them who have settled there are from Kutch in Gujarat. These people had created important trade links.”
“Even today they have Omani citizenship, but Indianness is ingrained in their personae. With the support of the Indian Embassy in Oman and the National Archives of India, a team has started the work of preserving the history of these families. Thousands of documents have been collected under this campaign so far,” he said.
Modi said: “These include diaries, account books, ledgers, letters and telegrams. Some of these documents even date back to the year 1838. These documents are full of sentiments. When they reached Oman years ago, what kind of life they lived, what kind of joys and sorrows they faced, and how their relations with the people of Oman progressed.”
He said: “All of this is a part of these documents. The ‘Oral History Project’ is also an important basis of this mission.”
Guyana recently conferred upon Indian PM Narendra Modi the country’s highest civilian honour, the ‘Order of Excellence’.
Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Guyana in 56 years. He visited the nation from November 20 to 22.
In an incident reported from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, a groom took it upon himself to deliver justice when he was allegedly robbed of currency notes from his cash garland. A video of the daring stunt has now gone viral on the Internet.
The mini truck driver allegedly stole currency note from the groom’s garland. Photo courtesy: Screengrab from X
As per reports, the unidentified groom was riding a horse to his wedding venue, as part of a ritual, when a mini truck driver allegedly snatched away one of the notes from the garland. This led to a dramatic chase.
The groom dramatically stepped down from the horse to personally chase the driver. Upset and furious over being robbed on his special day, he decided to catch hold of the alleged culprit. Visuals showed the groom rushing into the mini truck.
The video captures the garland-clad groom sliding inside the running mini truck through the window and entering the steering compartment. While it wasn’t clear what he did, the vehicles stopped after a few seconds. After the driver was forced out of the mini truck, several men, including the groom, landed punches on him.
#मेरठ में दुल्हा घुड़चढ़ी पर था. उसकी नोटों की माला से एक चोर नोट खींचकर भागा
शादी की रस्में छोड़कर दुल्हा चोर के पीछे भागा. चोर ने लोडर स्टार्ट किया और निकलने लगा. दौड़ते लोडर में खिड़की से दूल्हे ने एंट्री मारी तो चोर लोडर छोड़ भागने लगा
To prevent the driver from fleeing, a biker blocks the route by dragging his two-wheeler in front of the mini truck.
However, the truck’s owner said that the driver, Jagpal, was unaware of the commotion behind him, as per a report by India Today. “He claimed the groom accused the truck of brushing against him on the road, which led to the dramatic chase. Sehgal further alleged that the groom and his party assaulted the driver despite him having no connection to the stolen note,” the report read.
“We have reported the incident to the police and plan to take legal action against the attackers,” said Manish Sehgal, the transport’s owner.
Inflation to ease, economic growth to accelerate in coming months: Finance MinistryIANS
India’s food inflation is likely to ease while the growth outlook for the economy is “cautiously optimistic” for the coming months as the agricultural sector is likely to benefit from favourable monsoon conditions, increased minimum support prices and adequate supply of inputs, according to the Finance Ministry’s monthly economic review released on Monday.
India’s retail inflation jumped in October 6.21 per cent, a 14-month high, driven by elevated food inflation in a few vegetables. Supply disruptions from heavy rains in major producing states contributed to price pressures on tomatoes, onions, and potatoes.
However, the bright agricultural production prospects make the inflation outlook benign, despite existing price pressures on select food items. Early November trends signalled moderation in key food prices, though geopolitical factors may continue to impact domestic inflation and supply chains, the report states.
Amid a clouded global background, and after a brief period of softening momentum over the monsoon months, many high-frequency indicators of economic activity in India have shown a rebound in October.
These include indicators of rural and urban demand and supply side variables like Purchasing Managers’ Index and E-way bill generation, the report states.
India’s retail inflation jumped in October 6.21 per centIANS
On the employment front, the formal workforce is expanding, with notable increases in manufacturing jobs and a strong inflow of youth into organised sectors, it added.
As far as the external sector is concerned, the report states that India’s export recovery may encounter challenges due to softening demand in developed markets.
However, trade in the services sector is sustaining momentum. Apart from the emerging indications of domestic growth and stability, the dynamics of global interest rates, earning growth and valuation, geopolitical developments and policy decisions of the next administration in the US will determine the course of trade and capital flows.
Recent developments in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine have caused some concern in financial markets with safe-haven assets such as US Treasuries and gold finding a bid. Geopolitical conditions remain fragile, it added.
India views Italy as a key partner, a crucial ally in Europe, and a very influential player in the Mediterranean, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday, November 24, as he inaugurated the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome.
EAM Jaishankar inaugurated the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome on Sunday, November 24. Photo courtesy: twitter.com/DrSJaishankar
Jaishankar, who arrived in Italy earlier in the day on a three-day visit, also said that the frequent interactions at various levels between the two countries are a sign of the depth and breadth of their bilateral ties.
“Pleased to inaugurate the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome today. It befits the continued expansion of India-Italy partnership in recent years. Will also help us serve better the Indian community in Italy,” he said in a post on X.
Speaking on the occasion, Jaishankar said India regards Italy as a key partner, a very crucial one in Europe, and a very influential one in the Mediterranean.
“The frequent interactions today we see at various levels is a sign of the depth and the breadth of our relationship with Italy. It is also a reflection of the commitment and vision of our leaders today in taking forward our ties,” he said.
So nice to interact with the Indian community and friends of 🇮🇳 in Rome today.
“There is a convergence in our world views, a synergy in our endeavours, in addressing global and regional issues, and a new enthusiasm for developing our bilateral ties,” he added.
He said India’s growing engagement with Europe, particularly with Italy, which New Delhi sees both as a very influential European and Mediterranean country, suddenly reinforce each other.
India and Italy last week unveiled an ambitious five-year strategic action plan outlining specific initiatives in key sectors of defence, trade, clean energy and connectivity following extensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The action plan 2025-29 identified 10 specific pillars for advancing bilateral engagement that included economic cooperation and investments, energy transition, space, defence, security, migration and mobility, and people-to-people exchanges.
In their talks, Modi and Meloni also resolved to work together on multilateral and global platforms for upholding shared values of democracy, the rule of law and sustainable development. It was the fifth meeting between the two prime ministers in the last two years.
Recalling the meeting between the two prime ministers in Brazil, Jaishankar said the regular dialogue and meetings between the two prime ministers have been instrumental in elevating the bilateral ties, providing them with a new energy.
It was the fifth meeting between the two prime ministers in the last two years. Modi and Meloni had last met in June in Italy’s Puglia on the occasion of the G7 summit. Photo courtesy: x.com/narendramodi
“Our ties are based on shared values but also on some common history. We are ancient civilizations, rich in our culture, in our traditions, in our heritage, in our mythology, and we share many attributes…,” he said.
“Our historical connect is actually very deep, and I should, not be exaggerating if I say that a lot of India’s historical interface with Europe was actually with Italy,” he said, adding that our maritime interest and our shared commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and shipping also help us bring the two countries closer.
Referring to the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), the minister said that this connectivity corridor, which was agreed to in principle during India’s presidency of the G20, will be a game changer between Europe and Asia.
He said India’s presence in Rome is reflective of its membership of three important UN bodies – the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Food Program and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.
He also praised the Indian community in Italy working in diverse sectors, from agriculture, dairy and healthcare to hospitality and various other professional responsibilities, saying their contribution to strengthening the friendship between India and Italy is deeply appreciated.
He said the the Indian government has been very deeply committed to the welfare and well-being of the Indian community abroad.
During his stay in Italy, Jaishankar will participate in the Outreach session of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi, where India has been invited as a guest country. He is also expected to meet his counterparts from Italy and other participating nations in the G7-related engagements and hold bilateral discussions during the visit.
He will also participate in the 10th edition of the MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome.
Rishabh Pant is now the most expensive buy in IPL history. Photo Courtesy: Rishabh Pant Instagram page
Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant, who revived his cricket career with a bang after meeting with an accident, became the most expensive player bought during the auction process on Sunday for the upcoming Indian Premier League.
Lucknow Super Giants picked Pant for a record-shattering Rs. 27 crores (USD3.2 million).
Pant surpassed his Indian team colleague Shreyas Iyer who went to Punjab Kings for Rs. 26.75 crores (USD 3.18 million).
He was part of the Indian squad that won the T20 World Cup this year.
Iyer’s fate of becoming the most expensive player bought in the history of the cash-rich tournament was shortlived after Pant broke his record shortly after he went to Punjab Kings.
Iyer was one of the most sought-after players for the season since under his leadership Kolkata Knight Riders won the IPL title in 2024.
Meanwhile, defending champions KKR bought Venkatesh Iyer by paying a massive Rs 23.75 crore (USD 2.83 million).
Devdutt Padikkal, David Warner and Jonny Bairstow were the most high-profile players who remained unsold on the first day of the auction process.
Arshdeep Singh became one of the most expensive fast bowlers who was purchased in IPL history.
Punjab Kings purchased him for Rs. 18 crores (USD 2.13 million).
Jeddah city in Saudi Arabia is hosting the auction process for the first time.
Indian PM Narendra Modi urges youth to help elderly to stay safe from digital fraud. Photo Courtesy: PIB
Indian PM Narendra Modi urged the country’s youth to come forward and help elderly citizens stay safe from cyber fraud.
He appreciated the role played by youth to make the elderly a part of the digital revolution.
In his Mann Ki Baat address, the monthly audio broadcast, Modi said: “Youth are also coming forward to make the elderly a part of the digital revolution.”
He said: “Mahesh from Bhopal has taught many elderly people of his locality to make payments through mobile. These elderly people had smartphones, but there was no one to tell them their correct usage. The youth have also come forward to save the elderly from the risk of Digital Arrest.”
He said elderly people are most vulnerable to Digital Arrest and similar crimes.
“In such a situation, it is our responsibility to make them aware and help them stay safe from cyber fraud,” Modi said.
“We have to explain to people again and again that there is no provision of digital arrest in the government; this is a blatant lie, a conspiracy to trap people,” he said.
“I am happy that our young friends are participating in this work with full sensitivity and are motivating others as well,” the Indian PM said.
Last month, in his radio address to the nation, Modi cautioned the public about cybercriminals using ‘digital arrests’ to deceive people.
Emphasizing the seriousness of the issue, he urged citizens to adopt a ‘wait, think, and take action’ approach when faced with such scams.
The term “digital arrest” describes a cybercrime in which scammers impersonate law enforcement officials and threaten victims with arrest unless they pay a certain amount. Reports of this scam have been on the rise nationwide.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, former Prime Minister and current Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Singapore ministers from the ruling People’s Action Party celebrate PAP70 (the 70th anniversary of the party’s founding). Photo courtesy: X/@LawrenceWongST
In a “dangerous world” where geopolitical conflicts are growing and the United States of America “no longer wants to be the world’s policeman”, a small country like Singapore has choppy seas ahead and people here must stand together to ensure steady navigation — this is what Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has said today, in his speech at PAP70, the People’s Action Party conference marking its 70th anniversary.
“It is already tough to be a small country for our voice to be heard. It will be even tougher if our voice is diffused and incoherent,” he said.
PM Wong began his speech at PAP70 by referring to his first six months as the prime minister, after taking over the reins of Singapore from Lee Hsien Loong on 15 May 2024. With a touch of humour, he said, “Nothing prepares you for this job until you do it.”
Set to become the next PAP Secretary General, completing the Singapore leadership transition, PM Wong told the audience, “With your support, and support from our newly elected CEC, I will lead the PAP into the next general election.”
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong with PAP members recognised for their outstanding contribution. Photo courtesy: X/@LawrenceWongST
My hair is not white yet, but I can assure you the stress grows every day. Still, I embrace the challenges. I recognise the weight of my responsibilities and I value the trust that you place in me. I pledge to serve with humility. I will devote every ounce of my strength to the party, to the government, and to Singapore.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
Former PM Lee now serves as Senior Minister in the Cabinet. In his speech at PAP70, he outlined the leadership transition that began a few years ago, culminating in the May 15 change of guard. “That transition, I am happy to say, has gone very smoothly,” said SM Lee.
Once the transition is complete, with PM Wong taking over as PAP Secretary General from SM Lee, the latter will “continue on, in the CEC, in a supporting and advisory role”.
Singapore Senior Minister and outgoing PAP Secretary General Lee Hsien Loong at GIC Insights, United States, on 14 November 2024. Photo courtesy: X/@leehsienloong
In the CEC, as in the Cabinet, I will neither be the first responder, [and] neither will I be the final decider. Instead, I will do my best to support the new secretary general; to offer him the benefit of my experience, to help him to strengthen the party, and mobilise the support of Singaporeans to collectively tackle our problems and the challenges ahead of us.
Singapore Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong
Singapore Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong with Singaporean students at his alma mater Cambridge University, United Kingdom, on 17 November 2024. Photo courtesy: X/@leehsienloong
End of Pax Americana means a “far more dangerous” world
Speaking in detail of the global and local challenges that Singapore already faces and will face in the coming years, PM Wong said, “We are embarking on our next phase of nation-building under very trying circumstances. I’ve been busy with several overseas work trips [in] these past few months [such as APEC Peru and Rio G20]… I have had good discussions with many counterparts in these meetings; everyone is worried, because we are in a far more dangerous world today.”
“There are major wars raging in Europe and the Middle East,” said PM Wong, referring to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Hamas war. “US and China relations are in a more challenging phase. And there are many moving pieces geopolitically, where things can go easily wrong.”
The prime minister said that “for decades”, Singapore and other “countries everywhere” had benefited from the “American-led global order”.
“We say this is Pax Americana, in Latin,” said PM Wong. “That means a world with America as the dominant power, supported by multilateral institutions like the United Nations, the IMF, the World Bank, the International Court of Justice, and so on, shaping international norms and behaviours.”
But, “now the situation is changing”, said PM Wong. “America is still pre-eminent, but it no longer wants to be the world’s policeman.”
The re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States means a focus on his “America first” policy, where America is no longer willing to pay the high price of upholding the global order. Elsewhere, the “rising powers” China and India are still busy with their own affairs and are not ready for “larger global responsibilities”.
“And so the world is in flux. The established norms are fading, but a new order is not yet in place,” he said. “Amidst this vacuum of global leadership, we can expect more conflicts and instability in the world — because state and non-state actors will be emboldened to test boundaries, often with little or no consequence.”
PM Wong at the Rio de Janeiro G20 Summit 2024, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (extreme right), and other dignitaries. Photo courtesy: X/@LawrenceWongST
As examples, PM Wong mentioned the “egregious breach of the United Nations charter and territorial sovereignty” of Ukraine; the “horrendous terrorist attack” on Israel, and the resulting “cataclysmic humanitarian tragedy”.
Ideally, he said, the “major powers of this world” should come together and work together to “stop the conflicts, stop the wars, [and] tackle shared challenges like climate change and nuclear proliferation”. Otherwise, he added, “we can’t look forward to a shared future”. Unfortunately, “deep suspicion and mistrust” between America and China made it “harder to find common ground”.
These “realities of the world” were here to stay for some time, said PM Wong. “I think we will have to grapple with this perhaps for the next decade or beyond.” For Singapore, he said, “it means we will find it more difficult to make a living and keep ourselves safe”.
PM Wong seemed to hint at possible territorial or economic aggression against Singapore, when he said, “Other countries may test our limits and we must be ready to stand firm and defend our interest. At the same time, we must redouble our efforts to make friends with everyone — big and small, near and far.”
PM Wong with King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden after returning to Singapore from the G20 Summit 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The King of Sweden was in Singapore on a three-day state visit in November. Photo courtesy: X/@LawrenceWongST
Above all, we must remain united as one united people. Singaporeans are bound to have different views on global developments, whether it be the actions of America or China, or the wars in Europe or the Middle East; but we cannot let our differences pull us apart. It is already tough to be a small country for our voice to be heard. It will be even tougher if our voice is diffused and incoherent. At the end of the day, we must consider the larger national interest and take a united position. Then we can speak with one voice on the world stage.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
People’s Action Party members at the PAP70 conference in Singapore. Photo courtesy: Facebook/Melvin Yong
A show of unity among Singaporeans would enable the country to be “valued” as a safe, secure, stable, and reliable nation “even in a troubled and uncertain world”, said PM Wong.
“Fortunately,” he added, “Singapore’s reputation and international standing is high. We participate actively in international forums, and people want to hear us.”
He cited the island country’s participation in APEC and the regular invitations that Singapore gets to G20 summits, despite not being one of the 20 largest economies in the world.
“What makes Singapore so exceptional?” asked PM Wong. “It’s because when we speak, others know that it is a Singaporean point of view, coherently articulated by the government and supported by Singaporeans. They know [that] we mean business, and we do not waver. So without Singaporeans steadfastly supporting the government, we will not be able to navigate this new turbulent world,” said the prime minister, reiterating his call for a united Singapore.
A child in the USA has become the first person in the country to test positive for bird flu infection, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
First bird flu case reported in a child in California. Photo Courtesy: Pixabay
“This is the first reported avian influenza H5 virus infection in a child in the United States,” CDC said in a statement.
The case was reported from California.
Consistent with previously identified human cases in the United States, the child reportedly experienced mild symptoms and received flu antivirals, US CDC said.
There were low levels of viral material detected in the initial specimen collected, and follow-up testing of the child several days later was negative for H5 bird flu but was positive for other common respiratory viruses.
The US CDC said the child is recovering from their illness.
An investigation by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) into the child’s possible H5N1 exposure source is ongoing.
“During CDPH’s investigation, all household members reported having symptoms and specimens were collected from those people. All test results from members of the household were negative for H5 bird flu, and some family members were positive for the same common respiratory viruses as the child,” the statement said.
“Contact tracing continues, but there is currently no evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1 bird flu from this child to others,” the statement said.
CDC said there has been no person-to-person spread identified associated with any of the H5N1 bird flu cases reported in the United States.
US President-elect Donald Trump has announced that he will nominate well-known international investor Scott Bessent for Treasury Secretary, Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer for Labor Secretary, and Dr Janette Nesheiwat as the next Surgeon General of the United States of America.
(left to right) Janette Nesheiwat, Scott Bessent and Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Photo courtesy- Nesheiwat: x.com/DoctorJanette, Bessent: HistorianL/Wikipedia, Chavez-DeRemer: x.com/ACCAction
Making a slew of announcements for top administrative positions on Friday, November 22, Trump appointed Alex Wong as Principal Deputy National Security Advisor and Dr Sebastian Gorka as Senior Director for Counterterrorism.
Former Congressman Dr Dave Weldon has been nominated to serve as Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Marty Makary for FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Commissioner, and Scott Turner as Housing and Urban Development Secretary.
Russell Thurlow Vought has been appointed Director of the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB). All the appointments would come into effect on January 20, 2025, when Trump would be sworn in as the 47th president of the US. The nominations need to be confirmed by the US Senate before the nominees are sworn in to their respective positions.
Talking about his Treasury nomination, Trump said, “Scott is widely respected as one of the world’s foremost international investors and geopolitical and economic strategists. Scott’s story is that of the American Dream.”
Donald Trump during a rally in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo courtesy: www.instagram.com/realdonaldtrump
Bessent is an American investor, philanthropist, and educator. He is the Founder and CEO of Key Square Group.
“On the eve of our great country’s 250th Anniversary, he will help me usher in a new Golden Age for the United States as we fortify our position as the world’s leading economy, centre of innovation and entrepreneurialism, and destination for capital, while always, and without question, maintaining the US Dollar as the Reserve Currency of the World,” he said.
“Unlike in past Administrations, we will ensure that no Americans will be left behind in the next and greatest economic boom, and Scott will lead that effort for me and the great people of the United States of America,” he added.
Trump said Congresswoman Chavez-DeRemer’s strong support from both the business and labour communities would ensure that the Labor Department can unite Americans of all backgrounds behind the “agenda for unprecedented national success – Making America Richer, Wealthier, Stronger and more Prosperous than ever before!”
Thank you for this opportunity, President Trump!
Working-class Americans finally have a lifeline with you in the White House.
It’s time to bring our economy to new heights and secure a prosperous future for all hardworking Americans. 🇺🇲🇺🇲 pic.twitter.com/72l2VziTKq
“Dr Nesheiwat is a fierce advocate and strong communicator for preventive medicine and public health. She is committed to ensuring that Americans have access to affordable, quality healthcare, and believes in empowering individuals to take charge of their health to live longer, healthier lives,” Trump said about his Surgeon General nominee.
I am deeply honored and humbled by this nomination to serve as Surgeon General of the United States. Thank you, Mr. President, for your trust. I pledge to work tirelessly to promote health, inspire hope, and serve our nation with dedication and compassion @realDonaldTrump#MAHApic.twitter.com/anKuzkYNcz
Alex Wong served during his first term as the Deputy Special Representative for North Korea and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the Department of State.
He was also Trump’s nominee in the first term for US Ambassador for Special Political Affairs at the United Nations. As Deputy Special Representative for North Korea, he helped negotiate Trump’s Summit with North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un. Alex also led the State Department’s efforts to implement the Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy.
“Dr Sebastian Gorka will be returning to the White House as Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism,” Trump said.
“Since 2015, Dr Gorka has been a tireless advocate for the America First Agenda and the MAGA Movement, serving previously as Strategist to the President in the first Trump Administration,” Trump said.
Americans have lost trust in the CDC and in the federal health authorities, Trump said, alleging that these have engaged in censorship, data manipulation, and misinformation.
“Given the current chronic health crisis in our country, the CDC must step up and correct past errors to focus on the prevention of disease,” said the president-elect.
“In addition to being a Medical Doctor for 40 years and an Army veteran, Dave has been a respected conservative leader on fiscal and social issues and served on the Labor/HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, working for Accountability on HHS and CDC Policy and Budgeting,” Trump said.
Observing that the FDA has lost the trust of Americans and the sight of its primary goal as a regulator, Trump said the agency needs Marty Makary as Commissioner.
“FDA has lost the trust of Americans and has lost sight of its primary goal as a regulator. The agency needs Dr Marty Makary, a highly respected Johns Hopkins Surgical Oncologist and Health Policy Expert, to course-correct and refocus the agency,” he said.
“Dr Makary has been a pioneer in the fields of public health, cancer care, and surgery and a tireless voice for vulnerable populations. He is the recipient of the Nobility in Science Award from the National Pancreas Foundation and numerous teaching awards,” Trump said.
Dr Makary currently leads the evidence-based medicine and Public Policy Research Group at Johns Hopkins, he added.
Trump’s nominee for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Scott Turner is an NFL Veteran who, during his first term, served as the First Executive Director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalisation Council (WHORC), helping to lead an “unprecedented effort” that transformed the most distressed communities.
In a stellar show, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Mahayuti coalition is set for a massive win in the politically crucial western state of Maharashtra, which went to assembly elections on November 20.
BJP-led Mahayuti is set for a roaring comeback in Maharashtra | Photo courtesy: Narendra Modi FB
The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-Congress led INDIA alliance meanwhile is ahead in the eastern state of Jharkhand. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is predictably leading by over 3 lakh votes in the bypoll to Kerala’s Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency.
As per the trends, the Mahayuti [BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) and Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar)] is leading in over 225 out of the total 288 seats as opposed to around 54 leads of the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi.
The Mahayuti will have a political comeback in Maharashtra where the ruling coalition suffered a jolt in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This is also the best ever show of the BJP in Maharashtra.
In Maharashtra among the principal NDA partners, BJP contested in 148 seats, followed by Eknath Shinde led Shiv Sena in 80, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar at 52. Mahayuti candidates contested in six more seats.
In the rival Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) on the other hand the Congress contested 102 seats followed by 96 by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Bal Thackeray). The NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) fought 86 seats.
In Jharkhand, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-Congress alliance (which also includes the RJD), which is aiming to return to power for the second consecutive term, is locked in a contest with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led coalition.
Jharkhand has also seen several political turmoil with Chief Minister Hemant Soren going to jail over corruption charges. However, according to political analysts, the BJP’s “anti-infiltrator” plank in the state fell flat.
Prominent candidates include Chief Minister Hemant Soren, wife Kalpana Soren, and sister-in-law Sita Soren from the JMM. Key BJP leaders include former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi, Assembly Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahto (JMM), AJSU Party chief Sudesh Mahto, and Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri.
Wayanad
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made her poll debut contesting from Wayanad | Photo courtesy: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Facebook page
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is leading by over three lakh votes in the bypoll to Kerala’s Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency making her electoral debut by contesting from the seat which was won by her brother and Congress top leader Rahul Gandhi for two consecutive terms in 2019 and 2024.
The Congress general secretary became the candidate after Rahul resigned keeping Gandhi bastion Rae Bareli, the other seat he won in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
West Bengal
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) is set to sweep the six assembly byelections 6-0, warding off the criticisms it had faced over the RG Kar rape-murder case. The byelections were held in Naihati, Haroa, Medinipur, Taldangra, Sitai and Madarihat on November 13. All seats except Madarihat (which was last won by the BJP) were in the TMC’s kitty.
