BEIJING, May 11: US President Donald Trump will pay an official visit to China from May 13 to 15 at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Monday.
This will be the first visit to China by a US president in almost nine years.
The visit comes in midst of a prolonged US-Israel-Iran war, crisis over the blockade of Strait of Hormuz causing global energy crisis and the increasing tensions between the two countries over a host of issues, including Taiwan.
On Sunday, US principal deputy press secretary Anna Kelly said Trump would arrive in Beijing on Wednesday evening for what she described as a “visit of tremendous symbolic significance”.
According to Kelly, the US leader will attend a welcome ceremony and a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping on Thursday, followed by a visit to the Temple of Heaven and a state banquet, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported.
The two leaders will meet again on Friday for a bilateral tea and working lunch, she said, adding that the US planned to host the Chinese leader for a reciprocal visit later this year.
Both sides announced on Sunday that Vice-Premier He Lifeng will travel to South Korea for trade talks with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on May 12 and 13 in the final round of negotiations before Trump’s visit.
Trump’s visit is also taking place amid expectations of a trade deal over tariffs between the top two economies clamped by the US president.
The talks would be “guided by the important consensus” reached between the two heads of state at their meeting in Busan, South Korea and in previous phone calls and address “economic and trade issues of mutual concern”, a Chinese commerce ministry statement said. (PTI)
AHMEDABAD, May 11: As the IPL enters its decisive final phase, second-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad and third-ranked Gujarat Titans prepare for a critical showdown here on Tuesday, which could prove to be pivotal in shaping the playoff race.
The Shubman Gill-led GT appear slightly better placed after recovering from a slow start to the season with a string of crucial wins, including a commanding 77-run victory over Rajasthan Royals, which lifted them to third on the points table.
With the top three sides — RCB, SRH and GT — all locked on 14 points, net run rate could become a decisive factor in the race for the playoffs, making it imperative for SRH to improve theirs in front of their home crowd.
SRH have found their rhythm at the right time, with the emphatic 33-run win over Punjab Kings underlining their immense batting potential after piling up a massive 235 for 4. But despite their resurgence and stronger position on the table, they cannot afford complacency as the race for the playoffs remains extremely tight and a single misstep could prove costly.
GT’s biggest strength lies in the balance of their side, particularly their batting, which revolves around skipper Gill and Sai Sudharsan, both of whom have provided solidity at the top while negotiating the powerplay smartly.
With experienced campaigners like Jos Buttler and Washington Sundar adding depth, GT prefer building steadily before accelerating through the middle and death overs, an approach that has served them well both while setting targets and in chases.
Their bowling attack is equally formidable with the pace and wicket-taking ability of Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada complemented perfectly by Rashid Khan’s control and match-turning spells in the middle overs.
Of late, their bowling has looked far more disciplined and effective than it did at the start of the season, a sign that the overseas pacers are settling well into Indian conditions and finding greater consistency in their roles.
However, the side will need to overcome its over-reliance on the finishers to rescue the innings when the top order fails, a weakness that was exposed earlier in the season during a string of heavy defeats.
SRH have once again underlined their reputation as one of the most explosive batting units in the league, with the top-order quartet of Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen providing relentless firepower.
Their ultra-aggressive approach has seen them breach the 200-run mark with remarkable consistency this season — as many as eight times, including a high 249 against Mumbai Indians — making them one of the most feared batting line-ups in the competition.
SRH’s bowling attack is also centred around the aggressive approach of captain Pat Cummins, who has added bite and intent to the unit since returning after missing the first half of the season due to injury, with Ishan Kishan leading the side in his absence.
Their Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga has been a revelation this season, consistently making an impact in almost every game either by picking up crucial wickets or keeping the runs in check with disciplined spells. With 16 wickets to his name, he currently sits among the top five wicket-takers in the competition.
However, SRH’s ultra-aggressive batting has at times been their undoing, as early wickets tend to expose a fragile middle order and leave them vulnerable to collapses, while their fielding has also remained an area of slight concern.
Teams:
Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Anuj Rawat, Arshad Khan, Ashok Sharma, Jos Buttler, Connor Esterhuizen, Gurnoor Brar, Jason Holder, Kulwant Khejroliya, Kumar Kushagra, Mohammed Siraj, Glenn Phillips, Prasidh Krishna, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Sai Kishore, Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Ishant Sharma, Nishant Sindhu, Manav Suthar, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Luke Wood and Jayant Yadav.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins (c), Abhishek Sharma, RS Ambrish, Amit Kumar, Salil Arora, Gerald Coetzee, Harsh Dubey, Krains Fuletra, Travis Head, Praful Hinge, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshal Patel, Sakib Hussain, Shivang Kumar, Ravichandran Smaran, Onkar Tarmale, Jaydev Unadkat, Aniket Verma and Zeeshan Ansari.
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Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, May 11: The Directorate of Geology and Mining has attached District Mineral Officer (DMO) Ganderbal, Murtaza Bashir Bhat, pending an inquiry into his “conduct and non-performance.”
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According to an order issued by Director Geology and Mining Pawan Kumar Sharma, the action followed complaints regarding Bhat’s alleged poor performance and reports of rampant illegal mining in Ganderbal district.
The order stated that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and other dignitaries visited Ganderbal on May 10 to inspect developmental works, during which the officer was allegedly absent from several locations despite prior instructions to remain present with the visiting officials.
“It was observed that Murtaza Bashir Bhat (Chemist), District Mineral Officer, Ganderbal was not present with the dignitaries at all the locations,” the order read.
The department further said the officer had been informed in advance and was again telephonically instructed to accompany the visiting dignitaries, but allegedly failed to do so.
The order also cited multiple complaints from the general public and government executing agencies regarding his functioning, besides allegations related to illegal mining activities in the district.
Pending inquiry, Bhat has been attached to the CMT Laboratory in Budgam and has been directed not to leave the station without prior permission from the competent authority.
Meanwhile, the routine work of the District Mineral Office, Ganderbal, has been assigned to District Mineral Officer Bandipora, Ghulam Nabi Pintoo, in addition to his own duties, till further orders.
Sat Sharma and others on dais during celebration of Maharana Pratap Jayanti.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 11: Maharana Pratap Jayanti was celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion in Jammu, as a massive gathering of people, including children, women, youth and senior citizens, participated in the grand public function organised at the Bharatiya Yog Sansthan near Railway Complex, Gol Gujral.
The programme, organised jointly by Shri Amar Kshatriya Rajput Sabha and Dharam Jagran Samanvay, witnessed grand celebrations filled with patriotic fervour, cultural pride and tributes to the legendary warrior Maharana Pratap.
The celebrations commence with floral tribute and traditional rituals in honour of Maharana Pratap, followed by speeches highlighting his courage, self-respect and unwavering commitment towards protecting the nation and culture.
Rajya Sabha MP and BJP Jammu & Kashmir President Sat Sharma attended the event as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, he said Maharana Pratap’s life continues to inspire generations with the message of patriotism, sacrifice and resistance against injustice.
Keynote speaker Arun Kant, Pracharak, Akhil Bharatiya Seh Parmukh Dharam Jagran Smanveh, said that Maharana Pratap symbolised social harmony and national unity and his ideals remain relevant even today. He urged society to connect the younger generation with the lives and teachings of national heroes.
“Maharana Pratap taught us to live with dignity and never compromise on self-respect and national pride. His courage and determination continue to guide the youth of the country,” Arun said. He further stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage and strengthening national unity.
The programme was presided over by Narayan Singh, Chairman Shri Amar Kshatriya Rajput Sabha J&K, who said the huge turnout reflected society’s deep respect and admiration for Maharana Pratap. He further said that organising such programmes helps connect the younger generation with the country’s glorious history and cultural roots.
Prominent personalities present on the occasion included former Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh; Pt Shiv Raina, Prant Sachalak; Bar Association Jammu President Nirmal Kotwal; Dhani Ram-Prant Parmukh; Ramneek Anand- Prant Sanyojak; Tarseem Chib, Prant Pramukh, Rajput Paryojna; Zorawar Singh- Vice president of Press Club Jammu; Prant Toli of Dharam Jagaran Smanvay Virender Dogra, Rajnish Anand, Praveen Sharma, Pawan Sharma, Major Singh, Sukhdev Saini, Advocate P S Chandel, Surjit Singh Chib, Narinder Singh Chib, Ajay Chandel, Poonam Thakur, Ahlya Sen, members of Valmiki Colony Gandhi Nagar; Sadhu Samaj; members of Labour Union; Bihar and Odessa Samaj.
Newly elected students council posing along with school management.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 11: KC Public School junior wing organised a programme with enthusiasm and dignity to formally confer badges upon the newly elected members of the school students’ council for the academic session 2026-27.
The programme began with a melodious choir presentation on leadership, followed by a ceremonial march-past by the council members reflecting discipline and confidence. The event was attended by Principal Amarendra Kumar Mishra, Vice-Principal Jaskirat Sekhon and Headmistress Sofia Rana.
The dignitaries conferred badges upon the office bearers, while the Headmistress administered the oath of office. Aayan Gupta and Hitanshi Langu took oath as Head Boy and Head Girl respectively, while Adesh Mahajan and Aaru Sharma were sworn in as Deputy Head Boy and Deputy Head Girl. The programme concluded with a vibrant dance performance and the school song presented by the newly elected leaders.
GUWAHATI, May 11 : Ahead of starting his second innings as Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday asserted that the state’s “land, identity and future are non-negotiable” and his administration will free five lakh bighas (over 1.65 lakh acres) of land from encroachment in the next five years.
In a series of posts on X, Sarma listed out several poll promises and said the new BJP government will fulfil all those assurances in the coming period.
The stage is set for Sarma to make history by taking the oath as Assam’s chief minister for a second straight term on Tuesday, marking a formal start of an NDA government in the state for the third time in a row.
“Assam’s land, identity and future are non-negotiable. After freeing 1.5 lakh bighas of land from encroachment, #NDA3.0 moves ahead with a firm resolve to reclaim 5 lakh more bighas for the people of Assam,” he said.
For the BJP-led NDA government, ‘Jati, Mati, Bheti’ (community, land, foundation) comes first, he added.
Sarma further said that for the last 10 years, the NDA government has worked for the holistic development of Assam’s tea garden workers, who are the backbone of the state’s 200-year-old tea legacy.
“In #NDA3.0, we will further strengthen the lives and livelihoods of every Cha Shramiks with a phased wage increase to Rs 500,” he added.
From April 1, the daily wages of tea garden workers was increased by Rs 30. Following this decision, wages in the Brahmaputra valley rose to Rs 280, and to Rs 258 in the Barak valley.
Sarma said ‘Housing for All’ has been a promise of the ‘Double-Engine’ government, which has “walked miles” in this direction.
“The coming 5 years will be no different; over 15 lakh people will get PMAY homes and be proud home owners in Viksit Assam. That’s the commitment of NDA 3.0,” he added.
The CM-designate said Assam’s farmers have always remained at the heart of the NDA government’s development journey.
“With enhanced support for marginal farmers, additional MSP backing and major assistance for modern farm infrastructure, the next five years will further strengthen the backbone of our annadatas,” he added.
Sarma also said that the NDA 3.0 will fuel ‘Atmanirbhar Assam’ with Rs 5 lakh entrepreneurship support to 10 lakh youths, leading to more jobs, stronger local growth and unstoppable support for dreamers and job creators.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister’s Office also posted a series of updates on social media highlighting the outgoing government’s activities and outlining the roadmap ahead.
“Building on the historic milestone of over 1.5 lakh appointments delivered in the first term under the leadership of Dr @himantabiswa, the roadmap for the upcoming tenure transitions toward a broader economic transformation,” it added.
The mission for the new term targets two lakh permanent appointments and empowers 10 lakh youth through large-scale entrepreneurship, securing the foundation of a prosperous and progressive Assam, it said.
The CMO further said, “Under the leadership of Dr. @himantabiswa, The rich civilisational legacy of Assam has found renewed strength through dedicated efforts to preserve and celebrate its timeless heritage.”
The 2026–31 vision takes this commitment further with landmark initiatives to safeguard sacred sites, amplify Assam’s cultural pride and build world-class heritage infrastructure that reflects the soul of the state, it added.
In the healthcare sector, the CMO claimed that Assam’s landscape underwent a major overhaul during the first term of Sarma, marked by a surge in medical infrastructure and services.
“The 2026-31 phase will further fortify the sector through additional medical colleges and specialised academic programs. This expansion ensures advanced clinical services and superior medical accessibility for every citizen,” it added.
Talking about infrastructure development, the CMO asserted that the first tenure of Sarma saw a “historic expansion” of Assam’s roads, bridges and aviation networks.
“The next five years will prioritise mega-investments in high-impact infrastructure to build a stronger foundation for future generations and a #ViksitAssam,” it added.
With special emphasis for education in remote tea garden areas in the outgoing period, the next five years will build up on this momentum with 100 more tea garden model schools, the CMO said. (PTI)
KATHMANDU, May 11 : Nepal’s Supreme Court on Monday issued a short-term interim order directing authorities not to implement a decision to dissolve student unions in universities.
The ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party, in its commitment paper, had promised to scrap political party-based students’ unions.
A single bench of Justice Shrikant Paudel ordered the concerned authorities not to enforce the decision made by the University Coordination Committee on April 3, according to the court officials.
Deepak Dhami, president of the All Nepal National Free Students Union, and others had filed a writ petition challenging the decision to abolish student organisations in universities.
The Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers were made defendants.
The court summoned both parties for discussion on May 18 and asked the defendants to submit a written response within 15 days of receiving the notice through the Office of the Attorney General.
Last month, Prime Minister Balendra Shah instructed universities and health institutions in the Himalayan nation to dismantle the political party-based student and employee unions. (PTI)
Opium crop being destroyed by police in Lowang area of Bani on Monday. —Excelsior/Nishant
Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, May 11: Kathua police has destroyed “Opium” cultivation and recovered 115 Opium (Poppy) plants from the land reportedly belonging to a revenue official in Bagh Lowang falling in Police Station (PS) Bani of Kathua district.
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As per reports, Police Station, Bani had received an information through the reliable sources that one person namely Hidayatullah Malik, son of Abdul Rashid of Bagh Lowang, teshil Bani district Kathua who is reportedly serving as Girdhawar in Revenue Department indulged in illegal cultivation and selling of Narcotic Substance (Poppy) and he had grown Poppy (Opium plants) in his land at Bagh Lowang. The police team of PS Bani led by SHO, Bani under the directives of SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma and supervision of SP Operations, Upper Kathua and DySP PC Bani, swung into action to destroy the Opium in the field.
During the operation, Hidayatullah Malik, son of Abdul Rashid of Bagh Lowang, tehsil Bani, district Kathua was found to have illegally cultivated 115 Opium (Poppy) plants weighing approximately 3.750 Kgs in his agricultural land. The crop was seized on the spot in the presence of Executive Magistrate in charge, Bani as per procedure. In this regard, FIR No. 36/2026 U/S 8/18 NDPS Act stands registered at PS Bani and investigation has been taken up.
However District Development Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma said that it is yet to be ascertained whether the land belongs to Girdhawar or not. He said in case the land belongs to Girdhawar the strict action under law will be taken against him.
Kathua police in a handout said that it is committed to upholding the law and preventing such illegal activities that affect the safety and security of the community. Opium cultivation and its illegal trade are serious offenses, and the police will take strict action against the offenders.
SSP Kathua urged the public to come forward with any information about such illegal activities and to cooperate with the Police Department to maintain peace and harmony in the community.
KATHUA, May 11: The another son of an ill fated mother who was attacked along with his brother by a goon on May 6 in Ward Number 10 of Kathua town succumbed to his injuries in AIIMS, Vijaypur after battling for his life for five days late last night.
The two brothers who were alone at their residence were attacked by an unidentified assailant on the fateful day when their mother was not in the house and had gone to her office. The elder brother identified as Nakul Singh, 18, died in the murderous attack on the spot while his younger brother Nikhil Singh, 16, was taken to AIIMS, Vijaypur for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries late last night.
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His body was later handed over to his relatives after legal formalities by the police. A pal of gloom descended in the entire Ward 10 after the news of Nikhil’s death spread as the ill fated lady lost her both the children in the attack who were her only hope for future.
The incident dates back to May 6, when a brutal assault took place in broad daylight. According to police officials, a local youth allegedly attacked two brothers with a cricket bat following a dispute reportedly linked to a suspected love rivalry. The attack claimed the life of the elder brother, Nakul Singh (18), on the spot, while his younger brother, Nikhil Singh (16), sustained critical head injuries and was rushed for treatment.
Nikhil Singh had been battling for his life for the last five days at AIIMS Vijaypur, Jammu. However, officials confirmed that he succumbed to his injuries late Sunday night during treatment. With his death, the case has now turned into a double murder, which has generated shock and outrage among residents.
Police had arrested the accused, identified as 19-year-old Parth Verma alias Sumit, on the third day after the incident. Investigators stated that the accused was reportedly a close friend of the deceased brothers. Preliminary investigation suggests that the attack was triggered by a dispute connected to a suspected love affair.
According to police sources, the accused allegedly entered the residence of the victims in Ward No. 10 and attacked Nakul Singh with a cricket bat during an altercation, resulting in his immediate death. Nikhil Singh, who was also critically injured in the assault, later lost his life during treatment. The brutal nature of the crime has deeply disturbed the people of Kathua. Residents expressed grief and anger over the destruction of an entire family within minutes. The grieving mother, who had lost one son on the day of the attack, has now lost her younger son as well, leaving her devastated and alone.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread concern and discussions over rising violence among youth and the need for stronger social awareness and intervention. Police officials stated that further investigation into the case is underway.
NEW DELHI, May 11: Gold prices fell Rs 600 to Rs 1.55 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday after US President Donald Trump rejected Tehran’s response to Washington’s peace proposal, raising fears of renewed conflict in West Asia and pushing crude oil rates higher.
Additional pressure came from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to defer non-essential gold purchases for a year in an effort to protect the country’s external balances.
According to the All India Sarafa Association, gold of 99.9 per cent purity decreased by Rs 600 to Rs 1,55,300 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) from Friday’s closing level of Rs 1,55,900 per 10 grams.
“Gold came under pressure on Monday as fresh setbacks in US-Iran negotiations renewed uncertainty across global markets,” Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst – Commodities at HDFC Securities, said.
Rejection of the latest proposals sent by both sides reignited concerns over a prolonged conflict, pushing crude oil prices higher and reviving inflation worries, which strengthened expectations of tight monetary policy by global central banks, including the US Federal Reserve, he added.
However, silver prices climbed by Rs 3,700, or 1.42 per cent, to Rs 2,65,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes). The white metal had settled at Rs 2,61,300 per kg in the previous session.
Gaurav Garg, Research Analyst at Lemonn Markets Desk, said silver saw a slight uptick, benefiting from steady retail demand amid the approaching wedding season.
In the international markets, spot gold fell more than 1 per cent to USD 4,661.68 per ounce, and silver was also trading marginally lower at USD 80.28 per ounce.
“Gold traded slightly weak as markets reacted cautiously to negative developments around the US-Iran peace proposals, with reports suggesting renewed rejection of terms and rising fears of re-escalation in the conflict,” Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst – Commodity and Currency, LKP Securities, said.
The uncertainty has kept pressure on global risk sentiment, while rising crude prices are again adding inflation concerns across markets, he added. (PTI)
