Diplomatic efforts under PM Modi's leadership have led to the release and pardon of over 10,000 Indians imprisoned abroad since 2014. Key successes include the UAE pardoning 500 Indians during Ramzan, Saudi Arabia releasing 850 in 2019, and the release of Indian Navy veterans from Qatar in 2023. Modi's personal connections with international leaders have played a crucial role.

A parliamentary panel has expressed concern over states' failure to hold panchayat elections every five years as required by the 73rd constitutional amendment. States including Assam, Manipur, and Karnataka have delayed elections, impacting central grants for village development. The panel has urged the ministry to address this issue at the highest level.

The Department of Space (DoS) has allocated Rs 413 crore for the Axiom-4 mission, aiming to send Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) later this year. This joint Isro-Nasa effort targets a Q2 2025 launch, focusing on microgravity experiments and STEM education.

President Trump praised Prime Minister Modi as a smart leader and great friend while criticizing India's high import tariffs. Trump emphasized progress in trade talks and India's commitment to lower tariffs, significant energy purchases, defense deals, and reduced duties on key imports. These efforts aim to strengthen US-India trade ties amid ongoing friction.

Gold prices in Mumbai have reached a record high, surpassing Rs 91,000/10gm, driven by global uncertainties and tariff wars. Silver prices have also surged, crossing Rs 1 lakh/kg mark. A report by Goldman Sachs has further boosted gold's outlook with a new target price of $3,300 for 2025.

Thousands of people in Kashmir marched in solidarity with Palestine on Al-Quds Day, raising pro-Hezbollah slogans and flags. J&K police filed FIRs under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against the organizers for creating a law and order situation and promoting terrorism.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's speech at Oxford was disrupted by two groups of protesters, causing chaos. Security had to intervene as protesters accused her of various allegations, with the incident highlighting political tensions and unrest among certain groups.

Four police personnel have been killed in an ongoing gunfight with suspected Pakistani terrorists in the Sufain forest area of Jammu's Kathua district. The operation, involving the J&K Police's SOG, Army, and CRPF, continues, with a total of five terrorists reportedly neutralized.

Terrorists have shifted focus to the Jammu region, escalating jungle warfare due to decreased numbers in Kashmir. The crucial role of the J&K police, supported by the Army and paramilitary forces, is highlighted. Increased infiltration from Pakistan and decreased Army presence in Jammu exacerbate the situation.

A parliamentary panel emphasizes the ongoing crisis in Manipur, with significant displacement and loss of life. It recommends a special committee and targeted programs to support displaced women and children. The focus is on addressing shelter, nutrition, healthcare, and economic opportunities to alleviate the severe distress faced by the affected population.

The Gujarat High Court has extended Asaram Bapu's temporary bail by three months due to medical reasons. Serving a life sentence for rape, the 86-year-old godman previously received interim bail from the Supreme Court until March 31, 2025. Restrictions remain in place against meeting his followers post-release.

Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai expressed confidence that the party's central leadership will decide on alliances for the 2026 assembly elections to challenge the ruling DMK. Amid speculation of a BJP-AIADMK alliance revival, Annamalai emphasised the aim to strengthen the party and address state issues like corruption and law and order.

India signed a Rs 62,700 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics to procure 156 indigenous 'Prachand' light combat helicopters for the Army and IAF, enhancing its combat capabilities. The helicopters, to be built at HAL factories, are equipped for high-altitude operations with 45% indigenous content, aiming for 65% by project end.

West Bengal opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari urges the external affairs minister to prevent future official foreign visits by CM Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of undermining India during a UK visit. Adhikari condemns her comments as dishonoring freedom fighters and India's economic aspirations.

Heavy security was deployed in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, ahead of 'Alvida Juma' due to ongoing tensions related to a dispute over the Mughal-era Jama Masjid since November 2024. Guidelines were issued for offering prayers, and compliance was emphasized to prevent further unrest.

Security forces engaged in fresh gunfire with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. The encounter follows Thursday's clash, which led to the deaths of three J&K policemen and three suspected Pakistani terrorists. Advanced surveillance tools and reinforcements have been deployed as the operation continues.

The Delhi assembly will consider a resolution proposed by deputy speaker and BJP MLA Mohan Singh Bisht to rename the Mustafabad constituency to Shiv Vihar. The AAP has opposes the proposal, urging the government to focus on development rather than name changes.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board urges Muslims to wear black armbands during Ramzan's final Friday to protest the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, which they claim aims to seize Muslim properties. While Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister Stalin denounces the bill as discriminatory, the controversy has sparked significant protests, with further demonstrations planned in Vijayawada.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee spoke at Oxford University on women's empowerment in Bengal, but was interrupted by students protesting post-poll violence and a controversial case. She emphasized the importance of unity and inclusive development while addressing accusations and challenges raised during her speech.

Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Leader of Opposition, requested the governor to deploy paramilitary forces following violence in Malda's Mothabari. Adhikari highlighted a state of lawlessness in the region and urgency for Central Armed Police Force intervention.

The standoff between the Centre and opposition-led states over the release of funds under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and the PM SHRI scheme has escalated. The central government stresses the importance of uniformity in education standards, urging reluctant states to reconsider signing the MoU for their students' benefit.

CBSE plans to amend its examination bylaws to bar Class XII students with insufficient attendance from board exams. Students missing regular classes may be directed towards National Institute of Open Schooling exams instead. Schools promoting such students could also face disciplinary action from the 2025-2026 academic session.