Category: News

New Delhi, June 23: India has emerged as a strong performer in global job security confidence, securing the first position in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and ranking third worldwide, according to a recent report.

The findings indicate high optimism among Indian employees regarding job stability and future employment prospects, reflecting resilience in the country’s labour market amid evolving global economic conditions.

The report attributes this strong confidence to sustained economic growth, expanding employment opportunities, and robust hiring across key sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and services. It also highlights the growing formalisation of jobs and increasing demand for skilled professionals as key drivers.

Experts said India’s position reflects its strengthening role as a global employment hub, supported by rapid digital transformation, rising entrepreneurship, and continued industrial expansion.

Globally, the rankings show varying levels of workforce sentiment, with India standing out for its higher confidence in job security and career opportunities compared to many other economies.

The development underscores a positive outlook for India’s labour market and reinforces its growing influence in shaping global employment trends.

New Delhi, June 23: India has welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached between the United States and Iran, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval describing it as a positive step towards reducing tensions and encouraging dialogue in a sensitive region.

Speaking at the BRICS meeting, Doval said India consistently supports diplomatic engagement as the most effective way to resolve disputes and build lasting regional stability. He noted that any development that promotes communication and de-escalation contributes to global peace and security.

He further emphasised that sustained dialogue between nations is essential in addressing complex geopolitical challenges and preventing further escalation. According to him, constructive engagement helps create trust and opens pathways for long-term solutions.

The discussions at the BRICS forum also focused on broader global and regional security concerns, with member countries exchanging views on evolving geopolitical developments and their impact on international stability.

India reiterated its long-standing position in favour of peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, highlighting the importance of cooperation in maintaining global order.

The statement underscores India’s balanced diplomatic approach, which encourages engagement among nations even in times of heightened geopolitical tension, with the aim of fostering stability and mutual understanding.

June 23: The trailer of the much-awaited animated feature film “Mahaprabhu Jagannath” was officially launched on Monday by spiritual orator Indresh Upadhyay Maharaj during his Shrimad Bhagwat Katha.

The launch witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 10,000 devotees present for the unveiling, making it one of the largest physical trailer launches for an animated film in India. The atmosphere turned deeply devotional as chants of “Jai Jagannath” filled the venue during the trailer screening.

Speaking at the event, Indresh Upadhyay Maharaj appreciated the effort behind the film and highlighted the importance of connecting younger generations with India’s culture, traditions, and spiritual values. He said such creative initiatives play an important role in helping children understand their roots in an engaging and meaningful way.

He added that “Mahaprabhu Jagannath” is more than just a film, calling it a sincere attempt to pass on devotion, culture, and values to the coming generation through modern storytelling.

The film is being promoted as the first pan-India theatrical animated feature based on Lord Jagannath, designed with world-class animation to appeal to children as well as family audiences.

Directed by Shripad Warkhedkar, the project features screenplay and dialogues by Pallavi Sharma, with music composed by Aviral Kumar. The film is scheduled for release on July 10 in Hindi, Odia, and Telugu languages.

The makers believe the film will help bridge tradition with contemporary animation, bringing spiritual storytelling closer to today’s audience in an engaging format.

Guwahati, June 23: Air India will commence direct international flights connecting Guwahati with Dubai and Abu Dhabi starting August 4, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced.

The new routes mark a significant expansion of international air connectivity from Northeast India, aimed at improving access to key global destinations in the Middle East. The direct flights are expected to enhance travel convenience for passengers, boost tourism, and strengthen business and trade linkages between Assam and the Gulf region.

Officials noted that improved connectivity will also benefit the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf countries, particularly workers and families from Assam and neighbouring states, by reducing travel time and improving accessibility.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts to position Guwahati as a key aviation hub in the region, supporting economic development and increasing the state’s integration with international markets.

Authorities expressed confidence that the new routes will contribute to increased passenger traffic, economic activity, and regional growth in the coming years.

Angela Franks to head launch of Child Care WAGE$ Missouri Pilot in St. Louis County.

(St. Louis, Mo., June 23, 2026) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) has named Angela Franks as Director of its Child Care WAGE$ Missouri project. In this role, she will lead the launch and ongoing management of the organization’s new initiative designed to improve retention among early childhood educators in St. Louis County through education-based compensation. Franks will oversee directing and daily operations while cultivating strong partnerships with child care professionals and county stakeholders.

Franks brings more than 20 years of experience as an educator and ecosystem builder. Prior to joining CCAMO, she served as Principal for ARK Consulting Services, where she developed and delivered training programs for adults and youth focused on personal development, career readiness, and small business growth.  Her professional background also includes roles with multiple school districts and the St. Louis County Library. She holds a Master of Arts in Education, Curriculum and Instruction from Fontbonne University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Webster University.

Developed by the TEACH Early Childhood National Center in North Carolina, the Child Care WAGE$ program is a salary supplement initiative that invests in early childhood educators to strengthen workforce stability and improve quality of care. With more than 30 years of proven success in five states, this pilot marks the first implementation of the program in Missouri. The initiative is made possible through CCAMO’s long-standing affiliation with the national TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship program.

Funded by a $5.6 million award administered by the St. Louis County Children’s Services Fund, Child Care WAGE$ Missouri recently began offering its services. Through the Missouri pilot, eligible educators working in licensed or license-exempt child care programs in St. Louis County will receive salary supplements based on their education level and continued employment with their program.

“Angela brings the vision and deep workforce expertise needed to successfully launch this pilot,” said Beth Ann Lang, Deputy CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri. “Her experience will be instrumental in strengthening retention and ensuring early childhood educators in St. Louis County receive meaningful financial recognition for their education and commitment.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

Lucknow, June 22: At least 13 people were killed after a massive fire broke out in a building housing a coaching centre in the Aliganj area of northwest Lucknow on Monday, officials said. Several others were injured as panic gripped the area and some students attempted to escape by jumping from the building.

According to initial reports, the fire erupted suddenly inside a three-storey commercial building that housed a coaching institute along with a pet shop and other commercial establishments. The blaze spread rapidly, trapping students and staff inside the premises.

Eyewitnesses said thick smoke filled the building within minutes, making evacuation difficult. In desperation, several students reportedly jumped from the first floor to escape the flames, with at least one person sustaining serious injuries.

Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot and carried out intensive rescue operations. The blaze raged for over an hour before being brought under control. After the fire was doused, officials recovered at least 13 bodies from the building, while rescue teams continued searching for any remaining trapped individuals.

A video circulating from the site showed chaotic scenes, including individuals attempting to escape through broken windows and falling while trying to reach safety.

Police and administrative officials, including senior officers, reached the spot to oversee rescue and relief operations. The building has been cordoned off and a detailed investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.

Expressing grief over the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also directed officials to reach out to affected families and ensure proper medical treatment and assistance for the injured.

Further details are awaited as rescue and identification efforts continue.

New Delhi, June 22: The Ministry of Railways has implemented stricter penalty provisions under the Jan Vishwas Act, introducing enhanced enforcement measures to curb nuisance activities and ensure a safer and more orderly travel environment across trains and railway stations.

Under the revised framework, several passenger-related violations will now attract on-the-spot fines and stricter action by railway authorities and the Railway Protection Force (RPF).

Unauthorized hawking, including the sale of goods without a valid railway-issued license, will attract a fine of ₹2,000, with repeat offenders liable for higher penalties and possible legal action, including imprisonment.

Begging on trains and railway premises has been strictly prohibited. Individuals found engaging in such activities may be removed from coaches and penalised as per rules.

For nuisance and misbehaviour, including the use of abusive language, creating disturbances, or travelling under intoxication, offenders may face fines of up to ₹1,000, along with possible removal from the train.

The ministry has also reinforced strict action against smoking in prohibited areas, with violators liable to pay a fine of ₹2,000.

In a move to strengthen passenger safety, male passengers found travelling in women-only coaches or berths will be fined ₹2,500 and de-boarded immediately.

Railway officials stated that these measures aim to improve discipline, ensure passenger comfort, and enhance overall safety standards across the railway network.

Passengers have been encouraged to report violations or seek assistance through the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and official railway helplines during their journey.

Bhubaneswar, June 22 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the next of kin of Odia workers who lost their lives in the tragic ammonia gas leak incident at a seafood processing and export unit in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district.

The financial assistance will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), according to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

Expressing profound grief over the incident, Chief Minister Majhi conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of all possible support from the State Government during this difficult period.

“The Odisha Government stands firmly with the affected families and is committed to extending all necessary assistance,” the Chief Minister said.

In a bid to coordinate rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures, the State Government has deputed a three-member team to Tamil Nadu. The team has already reached the affected site to assess the situation and facilitate support for the affected Odia workers.

According to the CMO, the Odisha Government is maintaining constant communication with the Tiruvallur district administration and the Tamil Nadu Government to monitor rescue operations, treatment of the injured and other relief measures.

On the direction of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary Anu Garg also held discussions with her Tamil Nadu counterpart to ensure proper medical treatment and necessary assistance for the affected Odia workers.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday following an ammonia gas leak at a private seafood processing and export unit in Tiruvallur district, affecting several migrant workers, including many from Odisha.