Shivraj Singh Chouhan to Launch Apnapan, Personal Insights on PM Modi
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Union Minister, announced his forthcoming book Apnapan, a personal account drawn from a 35-year association with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The volume aims to offer a rare, first-hand view of Modi's leadership style, governance philosophy, and personal values. Chouhan describes the work as more than a memoir, reflecting decades of direct experience in organizational politics, state governance, and Union-level administration. The book will be launched in New Delhi on 26 May 2026. Contributors and observers expect fresh anecdotes about important moments, including Modi's approach to national issues and decision making. The release is anticipated to spark dialogue on leadership in contemporary India.
Book title Apnapan; author Shivraj Singh Chouhan; release date 26 May 2026 in New Delhi.
Based on a 35-year association with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Promises personal insights into Modi’s leadership, governance, and values.
Not a standard memoir; emphasizes direct experiences across governance levels.
Includes reference to the 1991 Ekta Yatra and its perceived significance.
May 13, 2026
Prashant Pise Appointed India's Ambassador to Oman
Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Prashant Pise, was announced as India's next Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman. A 1995 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, Mr. Pise will succeed Godavarthi Venkata Srinivas, of the 1993 batch, in Muscat. His overseas postings include Cairo (1997–2000) and Tripoli (until 2004). He has also served in the Eurasia and United Nations divisions as Deputy Secretary (2004–2006). Currently the Additional Secretary (Emigration Policy and Welfare), he led India’s delegation to the Abu Dhabi Dialogue ministerial consultations in February 2026 in Dubai.
Prashant Pise appointed as Ambassador to Oman
1995 batch IFS officer; will succeed 1993 batch officer
Past postings: Cairo, Tripoli; Eurasia and UN divisions
Currently Additional Secretary (Emigration Policy and Welfare)
Led delegation to Abu Dhabi Dialogue in February 2026
May 11, 2026
Non‑Binary Indian Elected to Scottish Parliament
Manivannan, a non‑binary transgender Indian from Tamil Nadu, was elected on 8 May 2026 as a Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh & Lothians East. Contesting for the Scottish Greens, they became one of the first two transgender MSPs elected to Holyrood. Legislation passed in 2025 allows non‑UK citizens with various types of leave to stand for Parliament. Manivannan arrived in Scotland in September 2021 to study at the University of St Andrews after earlier studies in Delhi. They use they/them pronouns and emphasize inclusive representation in the devolved legislature.
Election date: 8 May 2026
MP election: Manivannan, Scottish Greens
First transgender MSPs in Holyrood
Policy change: non‑UK citizens allowed to stand (2025 law)
Background: studies in Scotland and Delhi
Pronouns: they/them
May 06, 2026
Kiran Mazumdar‑Shaw Names Biocon Successor
Kiran Mazumdar‑Shaw, founder‑chairperson of Biocon, has named a successor to lead the Bengaluru‑based biopharmaceutical company. Biocon, established in 1978, operates in biopharmaceuticals, biosimilars and contract research services with a presence in regulated markets abroad as well as in India. The leadership transition, part of corporate governance and succession planning, reflects how founder‑led Indian firms often retain promoter influence in advisory or strategic roles while enabling professional management. The announcement comes as Biocon faces market pressures and a shifting regulatory environment in global biotech sectors.
Company: Biocon, Bengaluru; founded 1978
Leader to be named successor by founder
Succession linked to governance practices
Biocon’s global presence and focus areas
Founder-led transitions common in India
May 04, 2026
Veteran actor Sudesh Kumar of Dosti fame passes away
Veteran actor Sudesh Kumar, best known for his role in the 1964 Hindi film Dosti, has passed away, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema. Kumar gained recognition for emotionally rich performances during the 1960s and 1970s, especially in films focused on friendship and social themes. Dosti, which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, is remembered for its music by Laxmikant–Pyarelal and its portrayal of hardship and hope. Kumar’s subsequent roles in Bollywood’s golden era kept him in public memory as a sincere supporting actor whose work reflected the period’s cinematic style.
Sudesh Kumar is remembered for Dosti (1964).
Dosti won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.
Active in Hindi cinema during the 1960s and 1970s.
Known for emotionally rich supporting roles.
Must-know last 48 hours: no new official updates on his career reported.
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