India and the US have signed a landmark ten-year Defence Framework Agreement, marking a new era of defense cooperation. The pact, inked by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, outlines a roadmap for enhanced military collaboration and joint initiatives across the Indo-Pacific region.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh commemorated Indira Gandhi's 41st death anniversary, highlighting her «uncommon grit, courage, perseverance, and resilience.» He recalled her 1977 visit to Belchhi, Bihar, where she rode an elephant to meet victims of caste atrocities, a journey seen as a political revival. Other Congress leaders also paid tribute, remembering her as the «Iron Lady of India.»

Union home minister Amit Shah criticized Rahul Gandhi for allegedly insulting Chhath Puja, attributing it to his «maternal home» in Italy and ignorance of Indian culture.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity on 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas'. The PM offered prayers and floral tributes, emphasizing Patel's pivotal role in India's integration and his enduring legacy of national integrity. A video highlighting Patel's life and achievements was also shared by the Prime Minister

Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha has ordered the termination of two government teachers for their alleged involvement with Lashker e Taiba's overground network. Ghulam Hussain and Majid Iqbal Dar, currently imprisoned, are accused of facilitating terror activities, recruitment, and financing through drug money. This action is part of a wider crackdown on the terror ecosystem in the Union Territory.

CPI(Maoist) Odisha state committee member Ganesh Uike criticized colleague Chandranna's surrender and denied claims of a new general secretary. Uike asserted the Naxal movement will continue despite setbacks, while police view the statement as a sign of internal crisis and disarray within the banned outfit.

India has secured approval for some domestic companies to import crucial rare earth magnets from China, vital for automotive and electronics sectors. These licenses follow earlier curbs, enabling access to materials essential for electric vehicles and other high-tech products. However, imports are restricted, prohibiting use in defense and export to the US.

Attacks Cong, RJD for skipping ayodhya event

Bihar's political landscape was shaken as Dularchand Yadav, a former associate of Lalu Prasad, was fatally shot during an election clash in Mokama Tal. The incident, involving supporters of rival strongmen Anant Singh and Jan Suraaj candidate Priyadarshi Piyush, marks a grim turn in the otherwise peaceful campaign. Authorities are investigating the violent confrontation.

The NDA is set to unveil its election manifesto, prioritizing job creation in IT, semiconductors, and MSMEs, offering a distinct alternative to the opposition's focus on government jobs. This strategy aims to leverage local talent and address migration concerns by fostering private sector growth, acknowledging Bihar's current limitations in attracting large manufacturing units.

A 47-year-old widow was arrested for allegedly conspiring with her lover and his brother to murder her 22-year-old son. The trio reportedly killed Pradeep Sharma to claim Rs 40 lakh from four life insurance policies taken in his name. The victim's body was staged as a road accident.

The United States has granted a six-month extension to the sanctions waiver for India's Chabahar port in Iran. This crucial development allows India continued access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. The port's importance for India's economic ties with Afghanistan is highlighted amidst evolving regional dynamics.

Allahabad High Court acquitted four men, including two Pakistani nationals, of terrorism charges in a 2007 attack that killed eight CRPF personnel. The court cited prosecution's failure to prove culpability beyond reasonable doubt, instead convicting them under the Arms Act and sentencing them to 10 years rigorous imprisonment. Families of victims expressed anger and disbelief at the verdict.

Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council's five-year term concluded without any announcement of fresh elections or its future status. This has sparked concerns among regional leaders, who view the delay as detrimental to democracy, especially following recent violent protests demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged newly elected Rajya Sabha members from the National Conference to vigorously advocate for Jammu and Kashmir's political rights in Delhi. He cautioned them against losing their voice, citing past instances. Abdullah expressed confidence that the three NC members would champion the restoration of statehood and constitutional rights, addressing internal party dissent regarding unfulfilled promises.

'Committed To Af Sovereignty, Independence'

A Lucknow court convicted a woman for a false SC/ST Act complaint, sentencing her to 3.5 years in jail. The ruling stated compensation under the Act will only be considered after a chargesheet and prima facie case, not just FIR registration. This aims to curb misuse of the law for financial gain.

A tense hostage situation in Mumbai's Powai concluded with police shooting Rohit Arya, who held 17 children and two adults captive. Arya, claiming he only wanted a conversation, was shot after allegedly attempting to harm the children with an air gun. He later died in hospital. Police successfully rescued all hostages.

The Congress has hit back at the BJP's complaint against Rahul Gandhi's «dance» remark targeting PM Modi. Congress leader Pawan Khera accused the BJP of being «issueless» and lacking a vision for the Bihar elections. He questioned the BJP's right to object to «dance» when their prime minister has used words like 'mujhra'.

The Congress criticised the home ministry's directive to facilitate ex-Agniveers' recruitment into private security, accusing the BJP of demeaning soldiers. The directive aims to aid the career transition of these recruits after their four-year service, with the government also reserving vacancies in central forces for them.