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Manipur: 34 UNLF(P) Insurgents Surrender to Assam Rifles


1. Thirty-four UNLF insurgents led by Pambei surrendered to the Assam Rifles while crossing from Myanmar.
2. This significant event underscores the intensity of ongoing insurgent activities in the region.
3. The surrender highlights ongoing efforts towards achieving peace and stability in Manipur.


Imphal, May 18: Thirty-four insurgents from the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) led by Pambei surrendered to the Assam Rifles while attempting to cross into Manipur from Myanmar.

This event marks a notable moment in the ongoing conflict in the region, highlighting both the intensity of insurgent activity and the efforts to bring peace.

The Surrender

The insurgents, armed with automatic weapons, chose to surrender amidst heavy firing from rival forces within Myanmar. Officials reported that the group encountered severe resistance from the People’s Defence Force (PDF), a rival faction within Myanmar.

This intense confrontation forced them to seek refuge across the border in Manipur. The vigilant units of the Assam Rifles intercepted the group during this perilous journey.

The Conflict in Myanmar

The surrender of the UNLF(P) cadres underscores the volatile situation in Myanmar, where various armed groups are engaged in fierce battles.


Also Read: Prafulla Dhariwal: The Unsung Hero Behind ChatGPT 4.0’s Development

The People’s Defence Force, a prominent rival faction, has been involved in continuous clashes with the UNLF(P). This internal conflict has led to numerous insurgents seeking safer territories, often crossing international borders to escape the violence.

The Role of Assam Rifles

The Assam Rifles played a crucial role in this incident, demonstrating their vigilance and commitment to maintaining security along the Indo-Myanmar border.

Upon intercepting the insurgents, the Assam Rifles ensured their safe surrender and subsequently handed them over to the state police. This coordinated effort between the Assam Rifles and local law enforcement highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in handling such complex situations.

Ceasefire Agreement

The surrendered insurgents are believed to be part of the valley-based UNLF(P) group, which had entered into a ceasefire agreement with the Indian and Manipur governments on November 29, 2023.

This agreement was a significant step towards peace, aiming to reduce armed conflict and pave the way for dialogue and reconciliation.

The surrender of these insurgents is a positive indication that the ceasefire agreement is being respected and that there is a move towards a peaceful resolution of conflicts.

The Way Forward

The surrender of the UNLF(P) insurgents is a hopeful sign for the future of peace and stability in the region. It indicates a potential reduction in violence and an opportunity for the insurgents to reintegrate into society.

The authorities will likely focus on ensuring the surrendered insurgents are provided with the necessary support and rehabilitation to facilitate their transition from armed conflict to peaceful living.

This incident also underscores the ongoing challenges in the region, where multiple armed groups operate and conflict is a daily reality. The efforts of the Assam Rifles and local authorities are crucial in managing these challenges and working towards a long-term solution.

The surrender of thirty-four UNLF(P) insurgents to the Assam Rifles is a significant event in the ongoing conflict in Manipur and Myanmar.

It reflects both the intense challenges faced by insurgents and the efforts of security forces to manage and resolve these conflicts.

As these insurgents lay down their arms, there is a renewed hope for peace and stability in the region, provided that all parties continue to work towards reconciliation and sustainable peace.

Prafulla Dhariwal: The Unsung Hero Behind ChatGPT 4.0’s Development


1. Prafulla Dhariwal, originating from Pune, is the mastermind driving OpenAI’s recent breakthrough, ChatGPT 4o.
2. His journey commenced with stellar accomplishments in academics and global Olympiads, earning him accolades like the National Talent Search Scholarship.
3. Dhariwal’s leadership and brilliance have propelled OpenAI’s advancements, including groundbreaking projects like GPT-3 and DALL-E 2.


Pune, May 17: Prafulla Dhariwal, a brilliant mind hailing from Pune, stands as the unsung hero behind OpenAI’s latest milestone, the ChatGPT 4o.

His journey of excellence began with remarkable achievements in academics and scientific competitions, including prestigious awards like the National Talent Search Scholarship and gold medals at international Olympiads.

With a stellar academic record and outstanding performance in entrance exams, Dhariwal’s path led him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he pursued a Bachelor’s in Computer Science (Mathematics) and graduated with a perfect GPA of 5.0/5.0.

His association with OpenAI started in 2016 as a research intern and has since evolved into a significant role as a research scientist.

Dhariwal’s contributions to OpenAI have been groundbreaking, with notable projects like GPT-3, DALL-E 2, Jukebox, and Glow under his belt. His vision, talent, and unwavering determination have been pivotal in shaping the trajectory of AI technology.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has publicly acknowledged Dhariwal’s indispensable role in the development of ChatGPT 4o, stating that the model wouldn’t have been possible without his dedication and brilliance.

Altman praised Dhariwal’s long-term commitment and leadership, which culminated in the revolutionary GPT-4o, showcasing advanced capabilities in voice, text, and vision reasoning.


Also Read: Collusion Between Brokers and Medical Staff exposed at Assam Medical College in Dibrugarh

The launch of GPT-4o at OpenAI’s Spring Update event heralds a new era in AI technology, marking the company’s entry into natively multimodal models.

Under Dhariwal’s guidance, the Omni team has achieved a significant milestone, setting a new standard for AI innovation.

Dhariwal’s journey from a promising scholar to a pioneering figure in AI research exemplifies the power of vision, talent, and perseverance.

His contributions continue to redefine the boundaries of AI technology, inspiring a new generation of innovators and researchers.

Collusion Between Brokers and Medical Staff exposed at Assam Medical College in Dibrugarh


1. Allegations unveil a troubling alliance between brokers and medical personnel at Assam Medical College.
2. Patients are reportedly redirected to private labs, purportedly for blood bank and test services.
3. The scheme implicates brokers and medical staff, raising serious ethical concerns.


Dibrugarh, May 17: A concerning nexus between brokers and medical staff has been exposed at Assam Medical College in Dibrugarh. Allegations suggest patients are diverted to private labs under the guise of blood banks and tests.

Patients, especially from vulnerable backgrounds, are reportedly directed to specific labs by brokers who receive hefty commissions. This exploitative practice has drawn criticism from BJP’s Dibrugarh district president, Ujjwal Kashyap.


Also Read: Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam to Temporarily Close for Tourists on May 31

Social media played a crucial role in highlighting this issue, leading to a response from Assam Medical College authorities.

Kashyap revealed prescriptions from doctors directing patients to private labs, implicating medical personnel in the scheme

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam to Temporarily Close for Tourists on May 31


1. Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve will close to tourists on May 31, 2024, ending the 2023-24 season.
2. Earlier plans to close Elephant and Jeep Safaris by May 1 and May 16 respectively were adjusted.
3. Adverse weather and road conditions prompted safety measures and extended Jeep Safari operations until May 31.


Guwahati, May 17: The Divisional Forest Officer of the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division has announced the closure of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve to tourists on May 31, 2024, marking the conclusion of the 2023-24 tourist season at the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Initially, plans were made to close the Elephant and Jeep Safaris within the park on May 1 and May 16, respectively, citing adverse weather conditions and challenging road conditions.

However, a recent update from the Divisional Forest Officer has extended the Jeep Safari operations until the end of May, granting visitors more time to explore the park’s captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife.


Also Read: TMC Leader Survives Shooting in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar

Although the Elephant Safari remains suspended for the season, the extension of the Jeep Safari offers an additional opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in the natural splendor and abundant biodiversity of Kaziranga National Park before its temporary closure.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of this extended period while adhering to safety guidelines and regulations, ensuring a safe and memorable experience amidst the park’s breathtaking wilderness.

TMC Leader Survives Shooting in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar


1. Animesh Roy, a TMC leader in Cooch Behar, was shot in an attack.
2. The incident occurred while Roy was returning home with a companion.
3. The assailants’ identities remain unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.


Kolkata, May 17: In West Bengal’s Cooch Behar district, a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, Animesh Roy, fell victim to a gunshot attack.

Roy, who serves as the panchayat pradhan of Lalbazar in Sitalkuchi, was returning home with a companion when the assailants struck.


Also Read: Pema Khandu Applauds Gobuk Villagers for Conservation Efforts Leading to Discovery of 10 New Moth Species

Armed and unidentified, they opened fire, injuring Roy in his right thigh. His aide also suffered injuries in the attack.

Police are actively investigating the incident, striving to apprehend the perpetrators.

They are yet to ascertain the motive behind the assault. Roy’s family has been approached for information, although they have been reticent about the incident.

Roy, currently admitted to a private hospital in critical condition, is receiving medical treatment.

Authorities are monitoring his condition closely as the investigation progresses.

Pema Khandu Applauds Gobuk Villagers for Conservation Efforts Leading to Discovery of 10 New Moth Species


1. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma predicts a BJP-led government in Odisha during the election campaign.
2. Himanta Biswa Sarma expresses confidence in BJP’s prospects in Odisha.
3. Sarma foresees “double-engine” governance with BJP in Odisha’s political landscape.


Itanagar, May 17: The Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh is abuzz with the discovery of 10 new moth species, marking a significant milestone in biodiversity conservation efforts.

. This groundbreaking revelation stems from two years of dedicated community-led initiatives spearheaded by the Titli Trust-Royal Enfield project for Responsible Tourism.

Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, took to the microblogging platform X to commend the efforts of the Gobuk villagers in the Upper Siang district.

Their decision to prioritize conservation over hunting activities has not only earned acclaim but has also led to the identification of previously unknown moth species.

The Titli Trust-Royal Enfield project for Responsible Tourism has played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices and nurturing a culture of responsible tourism in the Himalayan region.

Through their collaborative efforts, they have supported various initiatives focused on biodiversity conservation, climate education, and the promotion of eco-friendly livelihoods.


Also Read: Elon Musk declares full domain transition, Twitter now officially x.com

Bidisha Dey, the Executive Director of the Eicher Group Foundation, which serves as the CSR arm of Royal Enfield, emphasized the significance of community-driven conservation endeavors in safeguarding the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

She highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Siang Biodiversity Meet, which serves as a platform for facilitating dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collective action in the field of conservation.

Scheduled from May 12th to 18th, the Siang Biodiversity Meet aims to celebrate the region’s rich biodiversity while advocating for responsible tourism practices. Organized by local community-based organizations in collaboration with conservation groups and government agencies, the event offers guided nature trails, educational sessions, and community engagement activities.

Supported by esteemed organizations such as The Mouling National Park, the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department, and Royal Enfield, the Siang Biodiversity Meet represents a concerted effort to promote sustainable development in the Himalayan region.

Royal Enfield’s commitment to building resilience in both communities and nature aligns with its broader social mission, which seeks to empower Himalayan communities to thrive in the face of climate change challenges.

Elon Musk declares full domain transition, Twitter now officially x.com


1. Users accessing twitter.com were redirected to x.com, signalling a significant shift.
2. A pop-up notification on x.com assured users that their privacy and data protection settings remained unchanged.
3. The transition from twitter.com to x.com marks a notable milestone for the microblogging platform.


Canada, May 17: Today, users attempting to access twitter.com found themselves redirected to x.com, marking a significant transition for the microblogging platform.

A pop-up notification greeted visitors, reassuring them that despite the change in URL, their privacy and data protection settings would remain unchanged.

Elon Musk, in a post on X, announced that the platform formerly known as Twitter had completed its migration to x.com.

He confirmed that all core systems were now operational in the new domain.

Musk accompanied his announcement with an image of a logo featuring a white X on a blue circle, signaling a potential shift in the platform’s branding.

The official handle of X echoed Musk’s announcement with a simple post stating “x dot com.”


Also Read: Election Commission Suspends Nalbari Poll Officer for Public Misconduct Towards DC

Reactions to the domain change varied among users:

  • Some expressed reluctance to abandon the familiar name, with one individual stating, “We are still gonna call it Twitter.”
  • Others embraced the change enthusiastically, with comments like, “x.com marks the spot!” and “x.com looks good in my browser address bar.”
  • Some viewed the transition as the beginning of a new era, symbolized by the letter X.
  • Many expressed admiration for Elon Musk’s vision and determination, with one user declaring, “Finally, Elon Musk‘s dream comes true. Never bet against this man!”
  • A playful response came from a user who humorously noted, “twitter dot com*.”

Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter in October 2022 for $44 billion set the stage for a series of transformative changes.

The platform underwent a rebranding initiative, culminating in its renaming as “X.” This rebranding was accompanied by changes in terminology, with “tweets” becoming “posts” and “retweets” becoming “reposts.”

Musk’s fondness for the letter X is evident in his history of company branding. From x.com, an online financial superstore that later merged with PayPal, to SpaceX, founded in 2002 to revolutionize space technology, the letter has been a consistent motif in his ventures.

With the completion of Twitter’s transition to x.com, Musk envisions the platform as more than just a social media network.

He sees it as an “everything app” that integrates various functionalities, including audio, video, messaging, payments, and artificial intelligence, into a single, cohesive platform.

Election Commission Suspends Nalbari Poll Officer for Public Misconduct Towards DC


1. The Election Commission suspends Arpana Sarmah for insubordination and negligence.
2. The incident involved Sarmah’s refusal to perform duties and an altercation with DC.
3. Sarmah’s suspension follows an incident during election duties in Tihu LAC.


Guwahati, May 17 Election Commission of India has taken action against Arpana Sarmah, the Circle Officer of Paschim Nalbari Revenue Circle and Assistant Returning Officer (AERO) for Tihu Legislative Assembly Constituency (LAC), suspending her due to insubordination and negligence in performing her election duties.

The suspension stemmed from an incident in which Sarmah allegedly refused to carry out her duties and engaged in a confrontation with the DC while attempting to film her senior.

According to Nalbari DC Varnali Deka, the altercation arose when Sarmah neglected her responsibilities during election-related tasks.

Despite repeated requests to shift materials and EVMs to the strong room after completion of work, Sarmah declined to comply, leading to chaos. She eventually abandoned her post around 2 AM, leaving unfinished tasks that had to be reassigned to other officials.

The suspension order, issued on May 15, 2024, was confirmed by the Chief Electoral Officer of Assam the following day. It cites Sarmah’s failure to fulfill election duties, disruptive conduct, and gross negligence during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.


Also Read: Swati Maliwal Accuses Bibhav Kumar of Assault: ‘He Slapped Me, Kicked My Chest’

Pending further departmental proceedings under the Assam Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1964, Sarmah will remain suspended until further notice.

During this period, her headquarters will be the Office of Director of Land Records and Surveys in Guwahati, Assam, where she will receive a subsistence allowance as per regulations.

The incident leading to Sarmah’s suspension occurred on May 8, 2024, when she filed an FIR against DC Varnali Deka, exacerbating the conflict between the two officials.

The disruption caused by this conflict has significantly affected election preparations in the district.

Swati Maliwal Accuses Bibhav Kumar of Assault: ‘He Slapped Me, Kicked My Chest’


1. The FIR details MP Swati Maliwal’s allegations of being physically assaulted by Kejriwal’s aide Bibhav Kumar.
2. Kumar allegedly slapped her 7–8 times and repeatedly kicked her in the stomach and pelvis.
3. Despite her pleas to stop and noting she was on her periods, the assault continued.


New Delhi, May 17: The FIR filed in connection with the alleged assault of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal reveals a harrowing account of abuse that took place at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence on May 13.

The FIR details Maliwal’s allegations that Kejriwal’s personal assistant and aide, Bibhav Kumar, physically assaulted her, slapping her 7–8 times and repeatedly kicking her in the stomach and pelvis, despite her pleas to stop, particularly noting that she was on her periods.

Swati Maliwal, the former chief of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), described the brutal incident, which allegedly occurred inside the drawing room of Kejriwal’s house around 9 am.

According to Maliwal, Chief Minister Kejriwal was present at his residence during the time of the assault, although he has not been named in the FIR.

Maliwal recounted that she was sitting in the drawing room when Bibhav Kumar suddenly entered and began shouting at her without any provocation.


Also Read: Sikkim: Six Rescued After Landslide Hits Under-Construction DC Office in Pakyong

“How can you not listen to us? What do you think, you despicable woman? We will teach you a lesson,” Maliwal quoted Kumar as saying.

The situation quickly escalated as Kumar allegedly started physically abusing her, slapping her multiple times. “I felt absolutely numb and shocked and was screaming for help over and over again,” she stated in the FIR.

Maliwal further described how Kumar dragged her by her shirt, causing her to fall and hit her head on a center table.

The assault did not end there. Maliwal alleged that Kumar continued his attack, kicking her repeatedly in the chest, stomach, and pelvis area.

“My shirt was coming up, but he still continued to assault me,” she said. Despite her cries and the fact that she was experiencing “unbearable pain” due to her menstrual cycle, Kumar allegedly continued to attack her with full force.

Maliwal managed to escape and called the police, but not before Kumar threatened her, saying he “shall see to it” and he would “bury her.”

According to Maliwal, Kumar then returned with security personnel and forced her to leave the premises. “I was in a terrible state of shock at this unprovoked attack. I was deeply traumatized,” Maliwal stated in the FIR.

She then took an auto-rickshaw to the Civil Lines police station to report the incident.

At the police station, Maliwal, suffering from severe cramps and trauma, chose not to file a written complaint immediately, not wanting to politicize the incident.

“I was having severe cramps… Due to extreme trauma, not wanting to politicize the incident, I left the police station without filing a written complaint,” she explained.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Maliwal described the incident as one of the most difficult times of her life. She noted that her arms were sore, her abdomen was in pain, and she was having difficulty walking.

The AAP leader expressed her dismay and disbelief at the behavior of someone she had known for a long time.

“My situation is exacerbated by the fact that, having worked all my life for women’s issues and having helped lakhs of women get justice, I ended up being brutally beaten by a person whom I have known for long,” she stated in the FIR.

On May 16, Maliwal underwent a medical check-up at AIIMS, Delhi, which lasted over three hours. According to a medico-legal case report, she suffered internal injuries to her face, indicating the severity of the assault.

In response to the FIR, the Delhi Police have intensified their search for Bibhav Kumar, with sources indicating that he may be in Amritsar.

The case has been registered under IPC sections 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention), 120B (criminal conspiracy), 409 (criminal breach of trust by public servant), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), and 477A (falsification of accounts), along with relevant sections of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

This incident highlights the stark realities of gender-based violence and the importance of addressing such issues with urgency and seriousness.

It underscores the need for robust mechanisms to support victims and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their positions or affiliations.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Swati Maliwal and reinforcing the principles of safety and respect for all individuals.

Sikkim: Six Rescued After Landslide Hits Under-Construction DC Office in Pakyong


1. Six individuals were evacuated by NDRF after a landslide at Pakyong’s under-construction DC Office.
2. The landslide occurred in the afternoon, burying the work site and trapping six people.
3. The NDRF’s swift response ensured the safe rescue of all trapped individuals.


Gangtok, May 17: A total of six individuals were successfully evacuated by a team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) after a landslide struck the under-construction site of the DC Office in Pakyong on the night of May 16.

The landslide, which occurred in the afternoon, buried the work site, trapping the six individuals under the debris and posing a serious threat to their lives.

Upon receiving the emergency call, the NDRF team from the Pakyong Regional Center responded swiftly. Their prompt action and effective coordination ensured the successful evacuation of all six individuals.

Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, providing a sense of relief amidst the chaos and potential danger of the situation.

This recent incident highlights the persistent risk of landslides in the region, exacerbated by ongoing construction and natural geographical vulnerabilities.

Landslides are a common occurrence in Sikkim, especially during the monsoon season, but they can happen unexpectedly at any time, as demonstrated by this event.


Also Read: Aishwarya Rai Stuns in Black Falguni Shane Peacock Gown at Cannes 2024

The urgency of the NDRF’s response underscores the importance of having well-prepared and well-trained disaster response teams in regions prone to natural calamities.

Their ability to quickly mobilize and execute rescue operations can mean the difference between life and death for those affected by such disasters.

This landslide comes on the heels of another significant incident in the previous month when a critical road linking Chungthang to Mangan, passing through Toong Naga, was blocked near Theng Tunnel due to a landslide.

This particular landslide caused substantial disruption to essential transportation routes in the region, severely inconveniencing residents and travelers alike.

The road blockage near Theng Tunnel was especially critical as North Sikkim was still dealing with the repercussions of a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that occurred during the night of October 3 and 4, 2023.

The GLOF had already caused extensive damage to infrastructure and significantly impacted the lives of the local population.

Efforts to restore the Chungthang-Mangan road were met with numerous challenges, emphasizing the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters.

The restoration work required significant resources and effort, demonstrating the ongoing struggle to maintain infrastructure in a landscape prone to such calamities.

The recent landslide at the DC Office construction site and the previous disruptions highlight the urgent need for comprehensive disaster management plans.

These plans should include not only rapid response strategies but also preventive measures such as improved construction practices, better land-use planning, and enhanced early warning systems.

Additionally, public awareness and community preparedness play crucial roles in mitigating the impact of such natural disasters.

Educating the local population about the risks and ensuring they know how to respond during emergencies can significantly reduce the potential for loss of life and property.

In the wake of these incidents, it is imperative for the authorities to review and strengthen their disaster preparedness and response frameworks.

This includes investing in more resilient infrastructure, conducting regular drills and training for disaster response teams, and fostering greater collaboration between various government agencies and the community.

The evacuation of the six individuals from the landslide site at Pakyong stands as a testament to the effectiveness of a well-coordinated emergency response.

However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by natural disasters in Sikkim and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.

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