government of national unity

A political controversy has ignited in Kerala following the full recitation of 'Vande Mataram' at a new cabinet's oath-taking. The CPI(M) criticizes the move, citing historical precedents and concerns for pluralism. The BJP retorts, accusing the CPI(M) of insulting the national song and appeasing certain groups. A similar protocol dispute occurred in Tamil Nadu over song sequencing.

French President Emmanuel Macron pledged €23 billion in new investments for Africa, emphasizing mutual respect and sovereignty in a renewed partnership. Kenyan President William Ruto echoed this sentiment, stressing that future cooperation must be built on equality and mutually beneficial investment, not dependency. This marks a significant shift from France's historical influence in its former colonies.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay is set to expand his cabinet, inducting 23 MLAs, including two from the Congress party, marking their return after 60 years. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and IUML are also expected to join the council of ministers soon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged collective national efforts to reduce import dependence and strengthen India's global supply chain position. Amidst global uncertainty and Middle East conflict concerns, he appealed to citizens to minimize foreign currency spending and support domestic manufacturing. Modi drew parallels to past national crises, emphasizing historical citizen unity in response to government appeals.

After intense deliberations, VD Satheesan has been chosen as Kerala's new Chief Minister, overcoming strong contenders KC Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala. Key factors included alliance support, grassroots sentiment, and Satheesan's vocal opposition to the incumbent government, making him the preferred choice for a stable UDF administration.

Kerala CM-designate VD Satheesan and senior leader KC Venugopal dismissed reports of internal feuds, asserting that all organizational and cabinet decisions are made jointly through consultations. The oath-taking ceremony for the new Congress-led UDF government is scheduled for May 18, with cabinet formation discussions underway.

India's three-language policy is back at the centre of national debate, and the argument is the same one it has always been. The CBSE's 2026 mandate to make three languages compulsory up to Class 10 is framed as a step towards multilingualism and national integration. In Tamil Nadu and much of the South, it is being read as something else entirely. The question is not really about languages. It never was.

AICTE has launched the ‘Samarthan: Internship Connect Scheme 2026-27’ for students from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the North Eastern States. The initiative will provide 30-day internships at premier institutions including IITs, IIMs and NITs. A total of 611 students will participate in the programme during the current academic session. The application portal is now open, and candidates can apply until May 25, 2026.

A unique "Seva Sankalp" campaign at a school in Rayagada district encourages students to engage in community service and informal teaching during summer vacation. Senior students are teaching younger children and participating in village cleanliness drives, fostering leadership and social responsibility. The initiative has received appreciation from villagers and parents for its meaningful impact on students' development.

The Trump-Xi summit yielded no major breakthroughs, with both leaders sticking to their strategic interests, particularly concerning Taiwan. Russia's intensified attacks on Ukraine, met with Ukrainian drone strikes deep into Russia, highlight Moscow's continued aggression. Latvia's government collapsed over a drone incident, underscoring regional security concerns. Meanwhile, a joint US-Nigeria operation eliminated the Islamic State's No. 2 leader in Nigeria.

Uganda's president , Yoweri Museveni, will be sworn in on Tuesday for his seventh term as the country's president after ruling the country for the last 40 years. His son has emerged as his de facto successor.