Why India’s ‘BIMARU’ States Have Remained So

In Uttarakhand, devastating monsoon conditions have left many government schools in disrepair, forcing children to study in unsafe environments. Despite the allocation of Rs 20 crore for repairs, officials acknowledge that the estimated cost exceeds Rs 72 crore, with urgent action needed as schools continue to face collapse and flooding, jeopardizing student safety. Want More Context? 🔎

In Bihar, voters like Diwakar Sharma are racing against a September 1 deadline to restore their names on electoral rolls after the Supreme Court allowed submissions of Aadhaar and other documents for those struck off during the SIR. Confusion and urgency prevail as booth-level officers await formal instructions, while many voters face challenges due to limited internet access and political apathy amid significant deletions from the rolls. Want More Context? 🔎

Meghan Markle's anticipated Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, faced overshadowing from Taylor Swift's surprise album announcement, leading to Markle's frustration over what she perceives as a "hijacked" moment. While Markle's trailer received lukewarm responses, Swift continues to dominate media conversations, emphasizing the challenges of competing with her cultural influence. Want More Context? 🔎

Elon Musk is inviting engineers to join his AI company, xAI, to develop a new software venture called "Macrohard," aimed at competing with Microsoft. He believes that since software companies don't produce physical hardware, they can be simulated entirely with AI, and plans to leverage xAI's resources, including its supercomputer and GPUs, to create competitive software products. Want More Context? 🔎

Expelled Samajwadi Party MLA Pooja Pal claimed her removal was due to her praising UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and calling gangster Atiq Ahmed a "mafia," alleging it emboldened Ahmed's supporters. In a letter to SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, she expressed fears for her life, citing feelings of betrayal and accusing the party of caste favoritism, while highlighting her late husband Raju Pal's politically sensitive murder case. Want More Context? 🔎

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar criticized the US and Pakistan for ignoring their historical ties and reiterated India's long-standing stance against mediation in India-Pakistan relations during the Economic Times World Leaders Forum. He emphasized India's commitment to strategic autonomy and economic interests, asserting that the government would defend farmers' rights and resist external pressures. Want More Context? 🔎