President Droupadi Murmu presented 66 Padma awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Violinist N Rajam received Padma Vibhushan. Actor Dharmendra was honored posthumously with Padma Vibhushan. Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee received Padma Shri. The ceremony recognized distinguished service in various fields. A total of 131 Padma awards were approved for 2026.
India's economy faces pressure from the US-Iran conflict, impacting fuel prices, fertiliser subsidies, and forex reserves, Finance Minister Sitharaman warned. Meanwhile, West Bengal opened its first holding centre for suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals. In Karnataka, a leadership decision for the Congress is imminent, while Iran demands $12 billion in frozen assets before US talks.
India can avert power shortages and save consumers up to Rs 2.5 lakh crore by doubling air conditioner energy efficiency over the next decade. A new study suggests this move will significantly reduce peak demand, preventing blackouts and costly grid fixes. Higher efficiency ACs, despite initial costs, offer substantial long-term savings.
Tamil Nadu's political landscape is shaken as three AIADMK MLAs resigned, reportedly joining the ruling TVK party. Both DMK and AIADMK leaders have accused the Vijay-led government of «horse-trading» and orchestrating defections within the Secretariat. These resignations deepen the AIADMK's internal rifts and necessitate by-elections.
The Supreme Court has emphasized that girls must not abandon education due to a lack of sanitary napkins and functional, gender-segregated toilets in schools. The Centre has been directed to ensure effective implementation of its previous orders, urging states to provide free sanitary pads and adequate toilet facilities for all students.
A Karnataka leadership change decision is imminent within days following crucial Congress meetings. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with party leaders amid ongoing speculation about a potential shift. Discussions also covered Rajya Sabha and MLC polls, and a minor cabinet reshuffle has already occurred, with portfolios being reassigned.
West Bengal's BJP government has launched its 'detect, delete and deport' policy, opening a holding center in Malda for illegal foreign nationals. Nine suspected Bangladeshi nationals are currently housed there, awaiting verification and legal procedures. This initiative aims to streamline the deportation process for apprehended individuals, as mandated by a new national law.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that India did not express concerns regarding Pakistan's mediation role in the US-Iran conflict. While India remains focused on terrorist groups operating from Pakistani soil, this specific diplomatic engagement by Islamabad did not arise as a point of discussion.
The Supreme Court has raised serious concerns regarding the National Testing Agency's continual mishaps with paper leaks, indicating a troubling pattern of negligence. While assessing various appeals for changes in the examination process, the highest court has instructed the NTA and the central government to deliver a detailed response.
In a bold move, Assam has put forth a Uniform Civil Code Bill designed to ban polygamy and enforce the registration of live-in relationships. This new framework establishes a minimum marrying age of 21 for men and 18 for women, while safeguarding the rights of individuals and children involved in live-in arrangements.
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticized the Modi government for recent fuel price increases, alleging it burdens citizens despite stable international crude oil rates. He pointed to significant hikes in petrol and diesel prices over the past decade, contrasting them with the UPA era.
Foreign Minister of Australia, Penny Wong, announced that she will visit India to participate in the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting and hold the Australia-India Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue.
NEET-UG 2026 exam cancellation due to paper leak has deeply affected lakhs of students. Families face financial strain and students endure immense mental pressure. This incident raises serious questions about the integrity of competitive examinations in India. The system's credibility is shaken, while also impacting the aspirations of countless young individuals.
