Rahul Gandhi has demanded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET paper leak, accusing the Centre of neglecting student concerns. He pledged the Congress's continued fight for affected students, advocating for a robust examination system.

Kerala CM VD Satheesan faces a political storm over using his full legal name, including 'Menon', during his oath. Critics within his party argue it contradicts the Congress's secular image and signals caste politics. Satheesan defended the move, stating it was to honor his late parents, not a political statement.

India is pivoting towards Europe as traditional partnerships become unreliable. The burgeoning India-Italy relationship, spearheaded by Prime Ministers Modi and Meloni, is central to this strategy. This partnership is building crucial economic architecture, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and a potential EU Free Trade Agreement, positioning Europe as India's primary strategic focus.

A key Pulwama attack accused was reportedly killed in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, reigniting concerns over cross-border militancy. Meanwhile, an Air India flight experienced a tailstrike during landing in Bengaluru, leading to inspections and flight cancellations.

The Times Internet Half Marathon 2026 saw inspiring women compete in the 5K 40-49 female category. Rachana Joshi won, showcasing a family's shared passion for running. Sangeeta Thap secured first runner-up with a strong performance. Megha Bindlish, a new runner, achieved second runner-up. The event highlighted fitness, family, and personal growth.

Prashant Kishor has relocated to a Patna ashram until the Bihar assembly polls, aiming for his Jan Suraaj Party to make an impact after a previous electoral setback. He criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's son's cabinet induction and urged voters to prioritize their future over caste or monetary inducements, warning of potential economic challenges from West Asian conflicts.

Falta, which falls within Abhishek Banerjee’s bastion of Diamond Harbour, reflected the intense on-ground political heat during the West Bengal Assembly polls. Apart from authorities finding attempts to tamper with footage captured by web cameras installed at several polling stations, allegations of EVM manipulation were reported at a Falta booth, eventually prompting the Election Commission to order repolling.

Parvathaneni, while speaking at the Annual UNSC Open Debate on «Protection of civilians in armed conflict», congratulated China on assuming the UNSC Presidency for this month.

India has strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN Security Council, accusing it of a long record of violence against civilians and citing recent incidents in Afghanistan linked to Pakistani military action. India's envoy highlighted UNAMA findings of civilian casualties due to cross-border violence and airstrikes, including an attack on a hospital during Ramadan.

Northwest India is battling severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures soaring across multiple states. Uttar Pradesh's Banda recorded a scorching 48°C, while Delhi anticipates touching 46°C. Punjab and Haryana are also reeling under intense heat. The IMD has issued alerts, advising extreme caution for vulnerable populations and recommending hydration and protective measures.

India and Italy have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, fostering deeper cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. A defence roadmap for co-development and co-production of military platforms was agreed upon, alongside an ambitious €20 billion trade target by 2029. Discussions also covered global security, including West Asia and Ukraine, and maritime cooperation.

West Bengal's new BJP government is enacting swift policy changes, replacing TMC schemes with central programs like Ayushman Bharat and Annapurna Yojna. Mandatory 'Vande Mataram' in schools, revised OBC reservations, and increased age limits for government jobs are among the key decisions. The administration is also scrutinizing caste certificates and initiating corruption probes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the FAO Agricola Medal, the UN's highest agriculture honour, for his work on food security and sustainable farming. He dedicated the award to India's farmers and agricultural community, emphasizing the nation's shift towards 'Producing Better' with a focus on biodiversity and technology. Modi highlighted India's commitment to human welfare and global responsibility.

India has reported no Ebola cases, despite the WHO declaring it a public health emergency. The health ministry has strengthened nationwide surveillance and preparedness measures, including sharing detailed SOPs with states and Union Territories. The country has prior experience in handling similar outbreaks.

India and Italy elevated their bilateral ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, focusing on AI, space, and innovation. Meanwhile, Kerala's new cabinet ministers were assigned portfolios, and the WHO warned of a high local Ebola risk in Congo and Uganda, though the global threat remains low. Disturbing reports from Afghanistan reveal families selling daughters due to extreme poverty.

After the marathon, an unusual, high-intensity indoor race grows in mass appeal

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni used the Hindi phrase 'parishram hi safalta ki kunji hai' to describe the growing India-Italy ties, emphasizing hard work as key to success. The two nations upgraded their bilateral relations to a Special Strategic Partnership, unveiling a Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029, aiming for a 20 billion euro trade target.

Pradhan orders crackdown on misinformation networks; security and intelligence agencies asked to ensure foolproof conduct