Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a historic feat, becoming the first world leader to surpass 100 million followers on Instagram. This significant digital milestone underscores his immense global reach and influence in online political communication. His follower count dwarfs that of other prominent international leaders, highlighting his unparalleled digital footprint.

The Delhi High Court has directed AIIMS to form a medical board to assess Jaideep Sengar, who is seeking to suspend his 10-year sentence in the Unnao custodial death case due to Stage-IV oral cancer. Sengar, brother of convicted rapist Kuldeep Sengar, claims his health has deteriorated.

Industry leaders met to shape digital journalism's future. Discussions focused on making Indian users pay for news. Experts highlighted that subscriptions require more than just content. They emphasized user experience, ease of access, and personalized value. Building trust and offering unique benefits are key to achieving sustainable growth in the digital news landscape.

The DNPA Conclave 2026 in New Delhi convened India's digital media leaders to discuss the future of news, governance, and innovation. Key themes included content economics, building trust, and the enduring value of print principles in the digital age. Experts emphasized credibility, authenticity, and strategic value as crucial for a resilient digital future.

Rahul Gandhi shared a light-hearted anecdote about resolving a sibling dispute with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, attributing Wayanad's «magic» to their reconciliation. He recounted how a planned trip to the constituency, which he previously represented, led to Priyanka speaking to him again after a period of silence, highlighting the special connection he feels with the region.

The Supreme Court heard a plea challenging a gas crematorium at Isha Yoga Center, previously dismissed by the Madras High Court. The CJI called Isha's service «pious work» and suggested mediation for alternate land. Both parties agreed to negotiate an amicable settlement, with a retired judge appointed as mediator.

PM Modi's meeting with the star cast comes as various stakeholders in the Indian and Israeli entertainment industries have been seeking collaborative projects and possibilities of utilising each other's strengths in various aspects of the creative space. Last year, amid government efforts to make India a global film production hub, an Indian film festival kicked off in Israel with the screening of filmmaker Kiran Rao's acclaimed feature «Laapataa Ladies».​

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT director, calling the inclusion of a chapter on judicial corruption in a Class 8 textbook a «deep-rooted conspiracy.» The court ordered the seizure of all copies of the textbook in circulation, emphasizing the need for a deeper probe to prevent erosion of public faith in the judiciary.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney begins a four-day visit to India, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agenda includes discussions on trade, investment, energy, critical minerals, and people-to-people connections, seeking to inject fresh momentum after a diplomatic row.

NCERT is recalling 38 copies of a Class 8 textbook after the Supreme Court strongly criticized its content on the judiciary. The Chief Justice of India took suo motu cognizance, calling the portrayal a «deep-rooted conspiracy to defame» the institution.

A Maoist commander, Anwesh, with a Rs 22 lakh bounty, was allegedly killed by his leader, Sukru, for planning to surrender to Odisha Police. His decomposed body was exhumed, revealing internal conflicts within Maoist groups over surrendering to authorities. The murder is believed to have been executed by Sukru with assistance from other cadres.

India strongly rebuked Pakistan at the UN Human Rights Council, dismissing its allegations regarding Jammu and Kashmir as «incessant propaganda.» New Delhi highlighted the region's development budget exceeding Pakistan's IMF bailout and pointed to infrastructure projects like the Chenab Rail Bridge as proof of progress, asserting that Kashmir is an integral part of India.

DNPA chairperson Mariam Mammen Mathew highlighted how AI and digital shifts are transforming news creation, distribution, and monetization. She stressed the importance of credible journalism anchoring technological advancements and DNPA's role in fostering collaboration and policy engagement to navigate these disruptions and ensure sustainable growth.

Bid to defame institution and judges: Ramana