The northern plains and heart of India prepare for a relentless surge of heat, as Delhi might swelter at a scorching 45°C. The Indian Meteorological Department warns of extreme weather, urging those most at risk to take necessary precautions. Meanwhile, amidst the heatwave, sporadic showers and thunderstorms are forecasted for Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and adjacent areas.

A fierce political faceoff had ensued three years back during the Left regime when Congress workers were thrashed for waving black flags at Vijayan's motorcade, leading to an intense war of words between two rival factions in the coastal state. Calling Vijayan Kerala's «most cruel» home minister, senior Congress leader MM Hassan had alleged that Youth Congress protesters were beaten up for waving black flags at the CM's motorcade.

Prime Minister Modi wrapped up his tour in Sweden with a monumental advancement in India-Sweden relations, officially turning it into a Strategic Partnership. Highlights of this collaboration include a detailed action plan for the upcoming years (2026-2030) and a groundbreaking partnership on AI and quantum computing.

India expressed deep concern over Iranian drone attacks targeting the Barakah nuclear facility in the UAE, calling it a dangerous escalation. The strike, which caused a fire near an electrical generator but no injuries or leaks, has intensified regional tensions. The UAE condemned the act as unprovoked and a threat to its sovereignty.

Indian health experts assure no need for panic as WHO declares Ebola a global health emergency. Unlike COVID-19, Ebola requires close contact for transmission. India's vigilance, robust lab capacity, and lessons from past outbreaks, including a 2014 case, ensure preparedness. Early detection and screening remain vital.

India and Sweden have elevated their ties to a strategic partnership, signing an action plan for 2026-2030 covering green transition, technology, trade, and defence. Prime Minister Modi emphasized shared democratic values and innovation, highlighting growing defence cooperation moving beyond a buyer-seller dynamic. Discussions also explored strengthening supply chains and sustainable mobility.

El Niño's shadow looms over India's monsoon. Past El Niño years saw key kharif crops like paddy and maize suffer over 10% output reduction in numerous districts. This study highlights vulnerable areas and stresses the need for district-level climate-resilient planning. Policymakers are urged to strengthen contingency plans for drought-tolerant varieties and efficient water management to protect farmers.

West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya sarcastically invited TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee to campaign in Falta ahead of the May 21 repoll, claiming the TMC has been 'sent into exile' by the state's people. Bhattacharya alleged the TMC leadership has disappeared following electoral setbacks and expressed confidence in BJP's victory, urging TMC workers to campaign freely.

The Art of Living's Bengaluru center celebrated its 45th anniversary, honoring founder Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Dignitaries, including Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot and Union Minister Sanjay Seth, attended a special satsang and meditation program. The event highlighted the organization's humanitarian work and Gurudev's efforts to make wellness practices accessible.

A Ukrainian drone strike in the Moscow region resulted in the death of one Indian worker and injuries to three others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the attack was justified retaliation for Russia's continued assaults on Ukraine. Russia reported intercepting hundreds of drones in one of the largest offensives of the war.

Kerala chief minister-designate V. D. Satheesan has announced his new cabinet, set to be sworn in on Monday. Prominent leaders like Ramesh Chennithala and Sunny Joseph will be part of the ministry. Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan has been named Speaker, with Shanimol Usman as Deputy Speaker.

Rahul Gandhi fiercely criticized the Modi government, accusing it of failing students across age groups due to the NEET paper leak, CBSE evaluation issues, and a new language policy. He highlighted the uncertainty faced by lakhs of students and demanded accountability from Prime Minister Modi and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, calling the ministry a 'department of disasters'.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor humorously defended the South Indian dish idli after a viral post compared it to rasgulla dipped in sugar syrup. Tharoor explained the distinct culinary and biological differences, calling idli a «culinary engineering marvel» and a «savoury monolith of South Indian culinary genius.»

Prime Minister Modi warned that global challenges like pandemics, wars, and energy crises could push a large population back into poverty, potentially undoing decades of progress. He highlighted India's «unprecedented» transformation under his leadership, urging the diaspora to join the nation's journey towards becoming a developed country.

Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district is under a massive security sweep following a foiled infiltration bid. Forces are conducting extensive searches across multiple locations after an intruder was neutralized near the Line of Control. Heightened security measures, including stringent vehicle checks, are in place amid unconfirmed reports of a high-profile foreign terrorist presence.

Tragedy struck Rajouri's Mohra village as a 60-year-old man succumbed to suspected food poisoning after consuming a wild vegetable. Seven others, including two young children, were hospitalized following the incident affecting two families. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the severe illness that led to the fatality and hospitalizations.