'Presence of LoP in selection panel is ornamental, why Cabinet minister made part of panel'

Excellence in maternity care transcends mere statistics, focusing on compassionate, respectful treatment and holistic patient well-being. The Times Future of Maternity Awards 2026 jury emphasized communication and outcome indicators over raw numbers. Winners were recognized for their commitment to quality care, from preconception to post-birth, ensuring both mother and child thrive.

After intense deliberations, VD Satheesan has been chosen as Kerala's new Chief Minister, overcoming strong contenders KC Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala. Key factors included alliance support, grassroots sentiment, and Satheesan's vocal opposition to the incumbent government, making him the preferred choice for a stable UDF administration.

Mamata Banerjee has appointed Kalyan Banerjee as the Trinamool Congress's new Chief Whip in the Lok Sabha, replacing Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar. This move, following a recent electoral setback, signals the party's emphasis on political aggression and loyalty. Kalyan Banerjee's return highlights his prominent role in defending the party legally and politically during challenging times.

Uttar Pradesh reels from devastating rains and thunderstorms, claiming over 100 lives and causing significant damage to homes and livestock. The state government has pledged Rs 4 lakh compensation for each deceased and is actively monitoring relief efforts. Meanwhile, advanced AI-powered weather forecasting systems have been launched to enhance early warnings for extreme weather events nationwide.

Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma announced contempt proceedings against discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting defamatory material. The judge stated she cannot remain silent against vilifying content targeting her and the court. This action follows Arvind Kejriwal and others boycotting proceedings after the judge declined to recuse herself.

Former Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee appeared as counsel at the Calcutta High Court, presenting evidence of post-poll violence. She alleged that children and women were not spared and submitted a list of alleged murder victims, urging the court to protect the people of Bengal. The Trinamool Congress lauded her commitment to truth and justice.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized «unilateral coercive measures» and sanctions, stating they disproportionately harm developing nations and cannot replace diplomacy. He also voiced concern over the West Asia crisis, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted maritime traffic and a sustained ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for a two-state solution.

A massive 7,500-page chargesheet has been filed by the NIA against 10 individuals linked to the deadly Red Fort car bomb blast in November 2025. The accused, associated with an Al-Qaeda offshoot, allegedly plotted to overthrow the Indian government and impose Sharia rule. Investigations revealed procurement of specialized equipment and manufacturing of explosives by radicalized medical professionals.

VD Satheesan has been appointed the new Kerala chief minister. The Congress party announced his selection after a period of deliberation. Satheesan, a lawyer and social worker with a strong legislative background, previously served as the leader of the opposition, guiding the party's resurgence.

Powerful thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds have claimed at least 89 lives across Uttar Pradesh. The devastating storms, which lasted for hours, also injured 53 people and killed 114 animals. Widespread destruction of homes and property was reported, with collapsing walls and falling trees being the primary causes of fatalities.

After days of intense consultations, the Congress has chosen VD Satheesan as the next Chief Minister of Kerala. The announcement follows the Congress-led UDF's decisive victory in the state elections, ending the Left Democratic Front's second consecutive term. Satheesan emerged as the preferred candidate over KC Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala.

A father in Rajasthan allegedly scanned a handwritten NEET UG 2026 question paper, turning it into PDFs for aspirants. This development follows the NTA's cancellation of the exam, impacting numerous medical hopefuls. Investigators are probing how the paper was accessed and circulated, with some students reportedly paying substantial sums for leaked material.

Tamil Nadu CM renews calls to scrap NEET after exam cancellation due to alleged paper leak, citing disadvantages for rural and disadvantaged students. The CBI has arrested five individuals, with investigations pointing to a leak originating in Nashik and spreading through coaching networks. Protests intensify nationwide demanding accountability.