With drought-tolerant, climate-resilient rice just two years away from Indian farms, gene editing could change how the country grows its staple. But questions around safety, regulation, and adoption still remain

Indian authorities have launched a major crackdown on a Pakistan-linked espionage network, arresting at least 12 individuals across northern states. The suspects, including a YouTuber and an influencer, are accused of relaying sensitive military information to Pakistani intelligence officers. Investigations are ongoing, focusing on digital devices, financial transactions, and potential links to drug smuggling.

Government wheat procurement has surpassed 296 lakh tonnes, exceeding last year's total purchase, bolstering food security and market stability. While Punjab and Haryana saw decreased procurement due to increased private buying, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan experienced significant surges in government purchases. With a projected record wheat production, the government anticipates exceeding 300 lakh tonnes in total procurement.

Following Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army retaliated strongly to Pakistani shelling in Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in casualties. An Army official emphasized the impactful response. In other news, Prashant Kishor appointed Uday Singh as Jan Suraaj Party's first national president.

Foreign secretary Vikram Misri briefed a parliamentary panel on the Pahalgam attack investigation, revealing that terrorists communicated with masterminds in Pakistan. He highlighted the presence of UN-designated terrorists freely operating in Pakistan and inciting violence against India, further emphasizing a nexus between terrorists, the Pakistani military intelligence, and civilian administration. The conflict remained conventional, with a truce established bilaterally.

The Ministry of External Affairs clarified to a parliamentary committee that the India-Pakistan ceasefire was a bilateral decision, refuting Donald Trump's claims of US mediation. During the meeting, officials confirmed the conflict remained conventional, with no nuclear signaling from Pakistan. India successfully struck Pakistani air bases, regardless of the platforms used.

The Parliamentary panel has strongly condemned the online abuse targeting Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri following the ceasefire with Pakistan. Chaired by Shashi Tharoor, the committee expressed solidarity with Misri, acknowledging his service to the nation. Misri clarified that the conflict remained conventional, dismissing nuclear concerns and US intervention claims. He also addressed concerns about Chinese military platforms and Turkiye's stance.

A row has erupted over the selection of representatives for a multi-party global outreach on counter-terrorism. Opposition parties like Congress and Trinamool Congress accuse the government of unilateral decision-making and ignoring their suggestions. The BJP defends the selection process, emphasizing national interest over party politics.

The Supreme Court rejected a Sri Lankan national's plea to settle in India after serving a seven-year sentence under UAPA for LTTE links, stating India, burdened with a large population, cannot be a 'dharamshala' for foreign nationals.

Following Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army responded strongly to Pakistani shelling in Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in significant damage to terror infrastructure and no Indian casualties. Indian army officials confirmed that the operation was a calculated strike aimed at destroying enemy terror sites and posts aiding infiltration.

Jan Suraaj Party, founded by Prashant Kishor, appointed former BJP MP Uday Singh as its first national president on Monday. This decision comes as the party gears up for its first electoral contest in the upcoming Bihar polls later this year. Kishor had previously stated he would not hold any official position within the party.

Following Rahul Gandhi's questions about Indian jets shot down by Pakistan after Operation Sindoor, Shivraj Singh Chauhan urged prioritizing the nation over party politics. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan accused Gandhi of echoing Pakistani propaganda and distrusting the armed forces. Gandhi questioned Jaishankar's remarks on informing Pakistan before strikes, prompting MEA clarification about the timing of the warning.

The Supreme Court rebuked Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah for his derogatory remarks against an Army officer, deeming his apology insufficient and a national embarrassment.

Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of external affairs minister S Jaishankar regarding Operation Sindoor, questioning the loss of Indian aircraft due to alleged prior warnings to Pakistan.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) affirms its support to the Centre in combating terrorism, clarifying that while it backs national interest initiatives, the party will decide its delegation members. TMC denies boycotting 'Operation Sindoor,' emphasizing its non-politicization of the issue.

Following the deadly Pahalgam attack, India's Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist installations prompted China to provide Pakistan with crucial military and satellite support. This assistance, revealed by an Indian defence research group, included reorganizing Pakistan's radar and air defense systems and adjusting satellite coverage over India.

The Indian Army showcased intercepted Pakistani missile debris, following Operation Sindoor, which retaliated against a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26. India's response included destroying terror infrastructure and key Pakistani military sites like Nur Khan Airbase. Pakistan retaliated with shelling and drone attacks. Hostilities ceased on May 10 after both nations reached an understanding.

India has imposed land port restrictions on specific exports from Bangladesh to its northeast, aiming to restore equality in bilateral trade relations. These measures reciprocate Bangladesh's existing restrictions on Indian exports and selective inspections, particularly affecting access to northeastern markets. India hopes this will boost domestic manufacturing and entrepreneurship in the region.

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition from Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, arrested by Haryana Police for his remarks on Operation Sindoor. CJI B R Gavai's bench will hear the matter on May 20 or 21. Mahmudabad's arrest, following a BJP Yuva Morcha leader's complaint, has sparked concern over free expression within the academic community.

The Supreme Court mandated the One Rank One Pension (OROP) principle for all retired high court judges, eliminating pension disparities based on recruitment source. All retired judges are entitled to a minimum annual pension of Rs 13.65 lakh, with Rs 15 lakh for retired Chief Justices.

Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of external affairs minister S Jaishankar regarding Operation Sindoor, questioning the loss of Indian aircraft due to alleged prior warnings to Pakistan.

Following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror-linked sites in Pakistan and PoK. The operation involved precision airstrikes and vigilance against Pakistani drones. In response to Pakistan's shelling and drone attempts, India broadened its strikes to include 11 airbases.

Indian Army clarifies that the ceasefire understanding with Pakistan has no expiry date. This follows India's precision strikes on Pakistani airbases. India emphasizes the truce depends on Pakistan's behavior. No further talks are scheduled between the DGMOs of both countries. India maintains a pause in Operation Sindoor. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warns of harsh punishment if Pakistan disturbs peace.

In Manipur, security forces have arrested over 350 insurgents amidst a crackdown on extortion, revealing a shift in tactics where groups now target matrimonial disputes alongside traditional targets. Investigations indicate these groups are increasingly desperate for funds following the imposition of President's rule. Insurgents exploit technology, using fraudulently obtained SIM cards for VoIP calls to demand money from various sources.