Babus, mantris & buzz: PM Modi skips UNGA for the 2nd straight time

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is intentionally omitting the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meetings for the second consecutive year, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar taking his place. This decision reflects India's growing emphasis on bilateral engagements and high-level forums like the Quad and BRICS, alongside efforts to reform the UN Security Council.

Jaishankar is expected to share India's goals, such as its push for a 2028-29 seat on the UNSC and its commitment to issues affecting the Global South.

In a significant vote, the faction of the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee is intensifying its campaigning in the Rejinagar constituency for the upcoming October 6 bypolls. The party's new visual identity features a football symbol, which has been strategically introduced through a football-themed outreach campaign orchestrated by political consultancy I-PAC. This tactic aims to maximize voter engagement and awareness of the interim name 'Mamata All India Trinamool Congress,' alongside its blue and saffron design.

In Gajapati, Odisha, a major drug crackdown led by IPS Rakesh Sahoo (2023 Batch) has resulted in the seizure of over 25 tonnes of narcotics and the arrest of more than 20 high-profile suspects. Utilizing advanced technology, including drones and remote sensing, coupled with human intelligence and strategic operations, the police have dismantled the cannabis cultivation and trafficking networks spread across 3,850 sq km of hilly and forested terrain.

To combat the issue, the police have also introduced alternative livelihood programs, focusing on horticulture, food crops, and livestock, to foster sustainable development and reduce dependency on narcotics.