D.D. Lapang, the veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Meghalaya, passed away in Shillong at the age of 91.
Revered as one of the most enduring political figures in the state, Lapang's career spanned over three decades, during which he held the Chief Minister's post on four occasions and played a pivotal role in shaping Meghalaya's democratic and development landscape.
He started his career as a road labourer, later serving as a school sub-inspector. His deep roots among the common people and firsthand understanding of hardship shaped his approach to public service.
In 1972, Lapang entered politics by winning a seat in the first Meghalaya Legislative Assembly from Nongpoh as an independent candidate. This marked the beginning of a long and distinguished political journey.
Lapang served in various ministerial capacities before being sworn in as Chief Minister for the first time in 1992. Over the years, he held the top post in the state four times between 1992 and 2008, navigating Meghalaya's often fragmented, coalition-heavy political landscape with remarkable skill and consensus-building ability.
Sep 10, 2025
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam Takes Over as NIScPR Director
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam has officially taken charge as the Director of CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) in September 2025. In her inaugural address, she emphasized a future-ready vision for science communication, agile Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policies, and global partnerships to strengthen India's role in the knowledge economy.
She highlighted that in the era of Artificial Intelligence, digital platforms, and rapid global shifts, India's STI ecosystem must adapt quickly. She called for flexible, responsive policies that evolve with the times and position NIScPR as a policy thought leader for both India and the Global South.
Senior Journalist Sankarshan Thakur Passes Away
Veteran journalist Sankarshan Thakur, editor of The Telegraph whose prowess with words added that extra edge to his analyses and ground reports, died at the age of 63. Thakur, who began his journalism career in 1984 with SUNDAY magazine, has worked in several places, including The Indian Express, Tehelka and The Telegraph in two stints.
Sep 09, 2025
Senior Journalist Sankarshan Thakur Passes Away
Veteran journalist Sankarshan Thakur, editor of The Telegraph whose prowess with words added that extra edge to his analyses and ground reports, died at the age of 63.
Thakur, who began his journalism career in 1984 with SUNDAY magazine, has worked in several places, including The Indian Express, Tehelka and The Telegraph in two stints.
Known for his sharp political commentary and empathetic pen, Thakur was a keen chronicler of India's politics, particularly Bihar. His home state was the focus of not just his journalism but also his credentials as an author.
Thakur authored the widely cited and bestselling biographies of the state's prominent political figures. His books include "Subaltern Saheb", a political biography of former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, "Single Man: The Life and Times of Nitish Kumar of Bihar", and "The Brothers Bihari", a highly acclaimed political diptych on Yadav and Kumar.
Thakur's distinguished contributions earned him the Prem Bhatia Award for excellence in political journalism (2001) and the Appan Menon Fellowship (2003).
Sep 08, 2025
Alia Bhatt Becomes Global Brand Ambassador for Levi's
In a move that blends global fashion influence with cultural resonance, Levi's has announced Bollywood star Alia Bhatt as its new global brand ambassador. This collaboration is not just about celebrity endorsement but marks a strategic shift in denim fashion, reflecting how younger generations want to express themselves through style-led and comfort-first fits.
Sep 07, 2025
Skechers Signs Mohammed Siraj as Brand Ambassador
In a strategic move to strengthen its foothold in India's rapidly expanding cricket footwear market, global sportswear brand Skechers has signed Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj as its newest brand ambassador.
This endorsement not only marks Skechers' continued push into Indian cricket but also adds another high-profile athlete to its growing roster.
Siraj, known for his aggressive pace and consistency, especially in red-ball cricket, will now be seen sporting Skechers cricket footwear and participating in the brand's performance and lifestyle campaigns.