Rural Empowerment – SIRI Mathrushree Industrial Park

On May 31, 2026, the Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, participated in several key events of national and international significance, guiding the nation’s path toward progress. As part of this, he virtually inaugurated the ‘SIRI Mathrushree Industrial Park’ at Belthangady in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka from Dharmasthala.

Operating under the leadership of Rajya Sabha MP Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, the ‘SIRI’ institution works toward the economic empowerment of rural women and the development of cottage industries by blending traditional skills with modern management practices. This new industrial park features humanitarian infrastructure, including residential hostels for women employees, child care centers, and hygienic community kitchens.

Cultural Sphere and Journalism Values

In the cultural sphere, the Vice-President attended the landmark 140th Foundation Anniversary celebrations of the ‘Deepika’ Malayalam Daily in Kottayam, Kerala, as the Chief Guest. Established in the late 19th century during an era of limited educational opportunities, this newspaper played a historical role in fostering social harmony and literary growth in Kerala society.

Addressing the ethical values that journalism (the Fourth Estate) must uphold in a democracy, he noted that media criticism should always be unbiased. He stated that the true journalistic duty is to fearlessly point out the flaws in society while equally appreciating good work.

Furthermore, he clarified that while editorials are the legitimate space to express opinions, news reports must always remain strictly objective and factual, cautioning against the growing trend of editorializing news. He also expressed concern over the rise of misinformation spread via digital platforms and the superficial reading habits of people who look only at headlines.

International Relations – India’s Cultural Diplomacy

A crucial mission reflecting India’s cultural diplomacy (Soft Power) was successfully executed in the arena of international relations and defense. On May 30, 2026, an Indian Air Force (IAF) ‘IL-76’ (Gajraj) strategic airlift aircraft successfully transported the sacred relics of Gautama Buddha’s chief disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana, from Delhi to Mongolia.

This overnight, long-haul strategic flight demonstrated the Indian Air Force’s extended strategic airlift capabilities in strengthening cultural ties with friendly nations. India is actively utilizing its rich Buddhist heritage as a potent diplomatic tool to further fortify bilateral relations with prominent Buddhist-aligned nations like Mongolia.