Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vehemently denied reports suggesting the government was considering a cess or tax on foreign travel. He stated there was no truth to these claims and reiterated the commitment to improving 'Ease of Doing Business' and 'Ease of Living' for citizens, dismissing any notion of imposing such restrictions.

Following a significant electoral defeat, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has told unhappy party leaders they are free to leave, vowing to rebuild the Trinamool Congress. She urged loyalists to restore damaged party offices and reconnect with grassroots workers, asserting the party will not bow down despite the perceived «looting» of the people's mandate.

CBI arrested a Chemistry teacher, identified as the «kingpin» behind the NEET-2026 paper leak, from Pune. The teacher, PV Kulkarni, allegedly conducted special coaching classes dictating leaked questions and answers to students. The medical entrance exam was subsequently cancelled, with a re-examination scheduled for June 21.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has strongly criticized RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale's suggestion for continued dialogue with Pakistan. Sibal labeled the remarks as 'obnoxious' and questioned the RSS leader's standing to make such statements. He highlighted the perceived double standard in political reactions to dialogue proposals.

India has reportedly sought an extension from the US to continue importing Russian oil, with the current waiver expiring May 16. The Congress party has sharply criticized PM Modi, accusing his government of «trading away India’s honour and dignity» and compromising energy security by «groveling before America» for permission.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced NEET UG exams will be computer-based from next year, emphasizing zero tolerance for malpractices amid paper leak allegations. A re-examination is scheduled for June 21st, with the investigation handed over to the CBI to address the examination mafia and ensure fairness for deserving students.

The Supreme Court has overturned the Delhi High Court's suspension of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence in the Unnao rape case. The apex court has ordered the High Court to re-examine the matter within two months, ensuring a fresh decision free from prior influences.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins a significant five-nation tour. He will visit the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The visits aim to boost India's engagement with Europe and the Gulf region. Discussions will focus on trade, investment, energy, and technology. This tour underscores India's growing global partnerships.

Rahul Gandhi has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of striking a «deal for Adani's release» with the US, rather than a genuine trade agreement. The Congress party echoed these sentiments, labeling the pact «one-sided» and alleging it aims to close fraud cases against Gautam Adani in America, suggesting Modi is compromised and subservient to US demands.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged BRICS nations to find practical solutions to geopolitical crises, emphasizing the threat to global energy and economic security from West Asian tensions. He stressed dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for sovereignty, while also highlighting concerns over unilateral sanctions, terrorism, and the need for UN Security Council reform.

The National Testing Agency has announced a re-examination for NEET (UG) 2026 on Sunday, June 21, following the cancellation of the May 3 exam due to alleged irregularities. Investigators uncovered evidence of a «guess paper» with numerous questions closely matching the actual exam, prompting a CBI probe into the matter.

India's maritime regulator has banned 366 foreign ships from hiring Indian sailors due to alleged abandonment, including unpaid wages and lack of compensation. These vessels, categorized as restricted or blacklisted, face immediate prohibition from employing Indian seafarers. The DG Shipping is demanding details of currently engaged Indian crew within two weeks.

BRICS foreign ministers are struggling to agree on a joint statement concerning West Asia. Tensions flared between the UAE and Iran during the meeting. Iran accused the UAE of direct involvement in aggression. India's External Affairs Minister stressed the importance of consensus for new members. The outcome of the meeting remains uncertain.

'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.