Top news of the day: SBI says no form, ID proof needed to exchange ₹2,000 notes; Zelensky denies Bakhmut has fallen to Russia, and more
The Hindu
Top news updates from The Hindu on May 21, 2023
No form, identity proof needed to exchange ₹2,000 notes: SBI
No form or requisition slip is required for exchange of ₹2,000 notes up to a limit of ₹20,000 at a time as part of exercise to withdraw high-value currency notes from circulation. In a communication to chief general manager of all its local head offices, State Bank of India informed that the facility of exchange of ₹2,000 notes by public up to a limit of ₹20,000 at a time will be allowed without obtaining any requisition slip.
Ukraine denies loss of Bakhmut to Russia after epic battles
President Volodymyr Zelensky denied Bakhmut had fallen to the Russians, his spokesman said May 21, while admitting there was “nothing left” of the flattened city after the longest battle of the war. A day after President Vladimir Putin congratulated his troops and private mercenary group Wagner who claimed to have taken the symbolic target, Zelensky suggested it would be a pyrrhic victory for Moscow in a lengthy, emotional answer. “You have to understand there is nothing” there in Bakhmut, he said, sat next to U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. “For today, Bakhmut is only in our hearts.” Zelensky’s spokesman had to clarify that the Ukrainian president did not confirm the loss of Bakhmut to Russian troops. “The president denied the capture of Bakhmut,” spokesman Sergiy Nykyforov said on Facebook.
PM Modi strongly calls for reform of United Nations
The United Nations and the Security Council will remain just a “talk shop” if they do not reflect the realities of the present world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on May 21, strongly pitching for reform of the global body. In an address at a G7 session in Hiroshima, Mr. Modi wondered why different forums have had to deliberate on issues relating to peace and stability when the UN was formed to deal with these challenges.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Jaishankar, discusses PM Modi’s upcoming visit to U.S.
Chennai can alleviate freshwater pressure by maximizing the use of treated wastewater for industrial and urban needs.
GVMC Commissioner announces completion of TIDCO houses in 16 layouts, plans discussions for remaining allocations with local MLAs.
ED investigates suspected misuse of foreign funds by SSPL to influence India's energy policy, probing over ₹6 crore in remittances.
Bomb threat email at Bengaluru Passport Office prompts extensive police and bomb squad response; no suspicious items found.
Indian squash gains momentum for the 2028 LA Olympics after a historic World Cup triumph, showcasing emerging talent and experience.
Daksh Foundation and Sethu Pranic Healing hosted a session on Pranic healing, promoting wellness and stress relief for The Hindu staff.
AP Endowments Commissioner announces multi-level parking plans for hilltop temples to enhance amenities and ease parking for pilgrims.
CREDAI to organise three-day property show in Vijayawada from January 9
S. Chandran, director of City Theatres and son of Merryland Studio's founder, passes away at 90 in Thiruvananthapuram.
Water leaks from Hippargi barrage after gate damage; Minister Thimmapur visits site to oversee urgent repairs.
Despite PMKVY training around 1.40 crore candidates, employability outcomes remain uneven, wage gains are modest and inconsistent, and informal employment offers limited recognition for certified skills and little visible improvement in quality of life.
Bengaluru Traffic Police begins crackdown on high-beam and colored lights to enhance road safety from January 7 to 13.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu will review progress at the Polavaram Project on January 7, ensuring timely completion of key works.