In an interview with the US embassy publication, Span magazine, the ambassador also spoke about the significance of Quad as he predicted further strengthening of defence ties. “India is a Major Defence Partner, and defence cooperation is one of the brightest spots in our bilateral relationship. We also strengthen US-India military interoperability through participation in military exercises such as Malabar, Tiger Triumph, and Cope India,” said Gor.
On the recent controversy involving UGC regulations aimed at maintaining standards, quality and equity in Indian higher education, Pradhan refrained from detailed comment, noting the matter is sub judice. “The govt’s responsibility is to ensure that no one faces injustice or discrimination. We will abide by whatever directions court issues,” he said. Outlining the ministry’s broader priorities, Pradhan said the education system currently serves around 30 crore students, placing significant responsibility on policymakers.
Home minister Shah accused opposition parties of spreading panic over the West Asia crisis, including the claim that a lockdown may be imposed. “I want to assure everyone. Do not fear, nothing will happen. We have adequate reserves of petroleum products,” he said. While many countries had taken emergency measures, India was working to tide over the crisis without compromising the daily lives of people, he said, adding that it had ensured regular gas supply to homemakers.
In a letter to chief secretaries of states and UTs, petroleum secretary Neeraj Mittal said only those industrial units that have registered with oil marketing companies, declaring the end use of gas cylinders, and have also signed up for the piped gas network will be eligible for the additional quota of LPG. He added that if LPG is used by certain industrial units for special purposes that cannot be substituted by natural gas, such requirements would stand waived.
Ships in the region are reporting repeated radio broadcasts over maritime channels warning vessels against transit. “Attention all ships… This is the Sepah Navy… navigation through Strait of Hormuz is forbidden… no ship is allowed to pass until further notice,” the radio messages repeatedly blare. Crews attributed these announcements to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.
A horrific incident in Sangli, Maharashtra, saw a 10-year-old girl die after her father allegedly hung her upside down overnight, suspecting her of theft. The 11-year-old sister also endured similar torture and is hospitalized. Family members' attempts to intervene were met with threats. The accused farmer has been apprehended.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with Chief Ministers. The focus was on the Middle East conflict's impact on fuel supply, inflation, and logistics. Discussions aimed to ensure coordinated action between the Centre and states. Preparedness for potential disruptions and maintaining stability in essential sectors were key. Contingency planning for fuel availability and price pressures was also reviewed.
Tragedy struck Zoji La in Ladakh on Friday as an avalanche claimed at least seven lives and left several injured. The devastating snowslide also caused a significant disruption, blocking the vital Srinagar-Leh highway and halting traffic. Immediate rescue and relief operations are in full swing, with authorities expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to affected families.
Multiple avalanches struck the Srinagar–Leh national highway on Friday, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven people and injuring five others. The avalanches hit the stretch between Zero Point and Minimarg, trapping several vehicles. Rescue operations are underway, with officials personally monitoring the situation and providing assistance.
India has strongly criticized Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's reported remarks telling Shias to «go to Iran,» labeling it as part of the «systemic victimization of minorities.» The MEA spokesperson highlighted the shrinking minority numbers in Pakistan as evidence of decades of fear and oppression by the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers and joined the Surya Tilak ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir virtually. He conveyed greetings for Ram Navami, wishing for renewed energy and enthusiasm across the nation. Devotees gathered at temples nationwide, with Ayodhya seeing large crowds. Security was enhanced to manage the pilgrims. Ram Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.
Rajnath Singh will lead a new inter-ministerial group addressing the Middle East conflict's impact. Union ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, and Hardeep Singh Puri are members. The group will focus on energy security, supply chains, and global order disruptions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced seven empowered groups to assess and mitigate economic effects.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, highlighting the state's development progress and seeking support for key infrastructure and connectivity projects. Dhami extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to visit Uttarakhand and presented him with local specialties. The meeting also covered initiatives in tourism, spiritual economy, and entrepreneurship.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers and joined the Surya Tilak ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir virtually. He conveyed greetings for Ram Navami, wishing for renewed energy and enthusiasm across the nation. Devotees gathered at temples nationwide, with Ayodhya seeing large crowds. Security was enhanced to manage the pilgrims. Ram Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.
National Conference MLAs protested the killing of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and US-Israel military actions in Iran within the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. The protest led to a scuffle with BJP MLAs, prompting an adjournment. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the conflict, stating regime change cannot be achieved through military bombardment.
The Indian Army is bolstering its armoured regiments with dedicated drone units, 'Shaurya Squadrons', to enhance surveillance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare. Recently tested in a realistic battle scenario, these units aim to significantly boost battlefield awareness and response times for tank formations. This move reflects lessons learned from global drone-centric conflicts.
Iran has permitted India to use the Strait of Hormuz, allowing 20 Indian cargo vessels and 18 LPG tankers to pass. This decision, following diplomatic efforts by India, eases concerns about energy supply disruptions. Iran stated that ships linked to its adversaries will be denied passage through the strategic waterway.
Elderly individuals, especially those frail or with limited life expectancy, may no longer need all their long-term medications. A global review suggests carefully stopping some drugs can be safe, reducing risks like falls and confusion. Doctors emphasize a shift towards patient-centered care, where medication reduction, when supervised, can improve well-being and energy levels.
The Supreme Court ruled that if a private vehicle is requisitioned by a district administration and meets with an accident, the government, not the insurance company, is liable for compensation. The court stated that the owner is divested of custody and control during requisition, making the requisitioning authority responsible for incidents.
The Supreme Court has ruled that vague and unsupported allegations are insufficient to initiate criminal proceedings, quashing a dowry harassment case against an elderly couple. The bench emphasized that citizens must be vigilant about their rights and take timely action, especially in matrimonial disputes, as delays can cast aspersions on a case.
Appearing defiant in London, Nirav Modi testified in a civil trial, denying owing Bank of India over $10.7 million. He claimed banks, CBI, and ED destroyed his 20-year business, asserting no fraud against Punjab National Bank. Modi alleged PNB colluded with CBI, leading to an FIR without his input, and ED's actions halted his operations.
Counter Intelligence Kashmir busted a terror recruitment module with links to handlers across the LoC and Bangladesh. Raids across three districts yielded incriminating materials. A Bangladesh-based LeT operative, Shabir Ahmad Lone, allegedly coordinated recruitment and network expansion, operating as a most wanted terrorist from abroad. An associate was previously arrested.
In Shopian's Hirapora village, 55-year-old Ulfat Bano has been Kashmir's first postwoman for over three decades, delivering mail on foot through challenging terrain and harsh winters. Despite the physical toll, her passion for connecting people fuels her dedication. She finds immense satisfaction in bringing good news and parcels to her community, viewing her work as a vital service.
J&K police's economic offences wing raided three locations in Srinagar and Budgam in connection with an alleged fraud. Two men are accused of issuing fake medical procurement orders and impersonating government officials to siphon off funds during the Covid-19 pandemic. A Delhi-based firm filed a complaint alleging deceitful inducement for medical supplies, leading to the recovery of evidence.
Fugitive jeweller Nirav Modi has lost his final bid to reopen his extradition appeal in London. Judges expressed concern over the use of 'proscribed treatment' to obtain confessions in India, but stated they would have reopened the appeal were it not for government assurances. Modi now faces extradition within a month, with limited avenues for further legal challenge.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the G7 summit in France from June 15-17. This confirmation came during high-level talks where India's crucial role in addressing global economic issues and fostering solidarity was highlighted. Discussions also centered on the Middle East, with both nations agreeing to coordinate on securing the vital Strai of Hormuz.
A 28-year-old woman was brutally murdered by her husband, Akshay, who slit her throat on a road in Kalaburagi district, Karnataka, after a domestic dispute. Bystanders captured the horrific incident on video, which has since circulated on social media. The accused fled the scene, and a manhunt is underway.
The Supreme Court has voiced concern over lawyers and litigants citing non-existent judgments generated by artificial intelligence, a practice becoming increasingly common globally. Justices Rajesh Bindal and Vijay Bishnoi emphasized the need for greater caution with AI-assisted material, noting the issue is under judicial consideration.
The BJP received over 91% of declared donations above Rs 20,000 by national parties in FY25, totaling Rs 6,074 crore. Overall political funding surged 161% to Rs 6,648 crore, with corporate donations dominating. The BJP's collections alone jumped 171% from the previous fiscal year.
A Karnataka MLA sparked a controversy by alleging that legislators are denied «entitled» IPL passes, forced into queues, and face inflated ticket prices due to alleged black marketing by KSCA. The Assembly Speaker has now directed the government to ensure MLAs receive VIP tickets, addressing concerns of disrespect and indignity.
