India now has a national standard, IS 19445:2025, for testing bomb disposal systems, developed at the Home Ministry's request. This voluntary standard aims to ensure uniform testing, improve manufacturing quality, and boost confidence in equipment used by security forces against various explosive threats. It addresses local realities and draws from global practices.

The BJP has accused the Gandhi-Vadra family of open hatred towards Dalits, citing an incident where Jairam Ramesh allegedly directed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge to read a note aloud. This comes as Congress announced nationwide protests against the alleged replacement of MGNREGA with the 'VB G Ram G Act', which they deem an insult to Mahatma Gandhi.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has praised the RSS's organizational prowess, igniting debate. Meanwhile, resident doctors in Himachal Pradesh are on strike, disrupting services. Israel's recognition of Somaliland has drawn international criticism. The BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of colluding with 'anti-India' forces. Hindus in Bangladesh are seeking refuge in India amid rising fears.

The BJP has accused the Congress of colluding with «anti-India» forces, citing Rahul Gandhi's participation in the «Global Progressive Alliance» during his Germany visit. Citing Sam Pitroda, the BJP claims this alliance promotes «anti-India» narratives and is linked to George Soros, questioning the Congress's association with such global networks.

The Indian Coast Guard demonstrated its swift response capabilities by medically evacuating a sailor from a UK vessel off Goa. This follows recent operations including the return of four fishermen from Sri Lankan custody and the apprehension of two Bangladeshi fishing boats for illegal activity within Indian waters, highlighting the Coast Guard's commitment to maritime security and national interests.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh praised the RSS's organizational strength, highlighting how grassroots workers rise to leadership. He later clarified his support for 'sangathan' (organization) but remained opposed to the RSS and Prime Minister Modi. Singh also urged Rahul Gandhi to implement internal reforms within the Congress, drawing parallels with his push for Election Commission reforms.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur criticized Congress for opposing the VB-G RAM-G act, 2025, alleging their objection stems from the word 'Ram'. He highlighted increased employment days and funding under the new bill, questioning Congress's past naming conventions for rural employment schemes.

Extreme weather events in 2025 inflicted over $122 billion in global damages, with India and Pakistan's devastating monsoon floods alone costing $5.6 billion and claiming 1,860 lives. While the US faced the highest financial toll from wildfires, poorer nations bore a disproportionate human cost. Experts warn continued fossil fuel use fuels this escalating crisis.

Madhya Pradesh High Court denied a 16-year-old rape survivor permission to terminate her 29-week pregnancy, as she wishes to continue and has married the accused. The court directed the Child Welfare Committee to care for her and the child until she turns 18. A medical board had advised against termination due to advanced stage risks.

A valuable M.F. Husain mural at LIC's Mumbai headquarters is deteriorating due to neglect and ongoing renovation work. Painted in 1963, the artwork shows signs of damage and lacks proper identification, highlighting the undervaluation of wall art in India. LIC has pledged to investigate protection measures.

India has expressed concerns to the US regarding the expansion of H-1B visa program reviews, citing hardship for Indian families. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted delays in visa appointments, impacting family life and children's education. India is actively engaged with the US to minimize disruptions for affected professionals.

India has introduced quality standards for incense sticks, prohibiting harmful insecticidal chemicals and synthetic fragrance intermediates. These new norms, aimed at improving safety and sustainability, classify agarbattis and set requirements for raw materials and burning quality. The voluntary standard, IS 19412:2025, seeks to protect public health and the environment from potentially hazardous substances.

Resident doctors in Himachal Pradesh have launched an indefinite strike, demanding the reinstatement of a doctor sacked for assaulting a patient. Despite a promise of a fresh inquiry, doctors deem the termination unjust, citing a lack of consideration for the doctor's perspective. The protest has disrupted routine medical services across the state.

'Hindu's killing a matter of grave concern'

A Class 10 student died by suicide after allegedly being reprimanded by teachers and the principal at a Greater Noida West school for using AI on her mobile phone during pre-Board exams. Her father has filed a police complaint accusing the school of abetment to suicide and mental harassment.

The CBI has approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the Delhi high court's order suspending the sentence of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The High Court had ruled that Sengar, convicted for raping a minor, was wrongly classified as a public servant.

The Supreme Court, guided by a 'sixth sense,' intervened in a rape conviction case. Observing a consensual relationship that soured, the court facilitated a marriage between the convict and victim. Following their union and happy cohabitation, the apex court quashed the 10-year conviction, invoking its powers to deliver complete justice.

India's drug regulator has revoked the registration of QR 678-Neo, an anti-hair loss product. The cosmetic was illegally marketed online for treating medical conditions like post-chemotherapy hair loss and genetic baldness. This action by the CDSCO against M/s Esthetic Centers International Pvt Ltd serves as a stern warning to the booming cosmetic market about making unapproved therapeutic claims.

Generations-old trades now face uncertainty

In a significant political development, the BJP has secured its maiden mayoral victory in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. V V Rajesh, a seasoned party leader, clinched the top post with crucial support, marking the NDA's first governance of a city corporation in the state.

Prime Minister Modi lauded the Sahibzadas' supreme sacrifice as a testament to India's courage against religious fanaticism. He emphasized that their story, suppressed for decades due to a colonial mindset, is now being brought to the forefront.

Union home minister Amit Shah has called for a nationwide upgrade of anti-terror infrastructure, advocating for an «impenetrable anti-terrorism grid» and a common ATS structure across states. He also announced a «360-degree strike» plan against organised crime, emphasizing data sharing and technological integration to combat evolving threats and ensure future security.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin accused the BJP of trying to sow religious divisions, saying Tamil Nadu’s communal harmony “irritates” the party. He condemned attacks on Christians, highlighted interfaith unity, and expressed confidence that the DMK would be re-elected in 2026.

Leaders across India remembered former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his first death anniversary. Singh, who served from 2004 to 2014, was hailed as a transformative leader who boosted India's economy. His contributions to the nation's development were acknowledged by political figures. Singh's legacy as an economist and a dedicated public servant continues to inspire.