Over 8,500 pilgrims, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits, embarked on their journey from Jammu for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela. The significant increase in registrations this year is attributed to a peaceful environment, enhanced security, and comprehensive arrangements. Officials have been stationed at various shrines across Kashmir to ensure smooth proceedings for the devotees participating in the revered yatra.

Ladakh's political groups, Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, have called for a shutdown on June 23, accusing the Centre of reneging on agreements regarding legislative powers and constitutional safeguards. They warn of renewed agitation if their demands for full statehood and Sixth Schedule status are not met, emphasizing that public mobilization will proceed despite the Dalai Lama's upcoming visit.

Authorities have implemented extensive security measures for the NEET re-exam on June 21, including a ban on Telegram and Indian Air Force involvement in transporting question papers. Over 13,500 CCTV cameras, 51,000 jammers, and AI surveillance are in place. Massive police and paramilitary forces are deployed, with stringent biometric verification and mock drills conducted to ensure a fair and secure examination process nationwide.

BJP chief Nitin Nabin launched a three-day Punjab visit, emphasizing a vision for the state mirroring Maharaja Ranjit Singh's era. His tour, including prayers at the Golden Temple and a Jalandhar roadshow, signals intensified preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. Nabin met with the Punjab BJP core committee to strategize on organizational strengthening and booth-level expansion, aiming to form a 'double-engine government' under PM Modi's leadership.

Nimbalkar was among the six MPs who stayed away from the June 17 meeting convened by the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. With Shiv Sena (UBT) holding nine seats in the Lok Sabha, the rebel faction requires the support of at least six MPs, or two-thirds of the parliamentary party, to avoid attracting provisions of the anti-defection law.

India hosts a crucial BRICS security conclave in New Delhi, bringing together top officials including China's Wang Yi and Russia's Shoigu. Discussions will centre on global flashpoints like the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war, alongside regional security and terrorism concerns. This meeting serves as a vital prelude to the upcoming BRICS Summit, with a focus on non-traditional security challenges and emerging technologies.

Lancet study offers early clue to what India's HPV drive could deliver

The row began after Tharoor reportedly remarked that PM Modi had raised the issue of civilian sailors during interactions with US President Donald Trump. The comments drew criticism from the Congress, with Khera suggesting that Tharoor was attributing statements to the prime minister that were not reflected in official records.

The situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has come to light, exposing serious governance challenges that undermine Pakistan's portrayal as a peace broker in the region. Protests began with economic discontent over rising electricity costs and inflation, swiftly evolving into calls for political reforms that would eliminate reserved seats for refugees in the PoK assembly.

A new Standard Operating Procedure has been launched for sea turtle conservation in Lakshadweep, offering a unified framework for management and monitoring. This initiative aims to protect all four major sea turtle species, which are legally protected. The SOP addresses nesting site security, migration tracking, and rescue protocols, building on the success of a decade-long ban on poaching that has boosted green turtle populations in the region.

Ahead of the NEET re-exam, Rahul Gandhi offered encouragement to students and urged the government to prevent further disruptions. He highlighted the stress faced by aspirants, referencing a case of a Nagpur student reportedly assigned an Abu Dhabi center, though the NTA clarified the student chose the option. Gandhi emphasized the need for a reliable examination system.

India, once concerned about a population boom, now faces a declining birth rate, with the Total Fertility Rate dropping to 1.9 children per woman, below the replacement level. This significant shift reflects women's increased educational attainment, career focus, and later marriages, leading to more personal choices about family planning. The narrative is evolving from population control to individual decisions, marking a societal transition.

The CBI will challenge the acquittal of nine individuals, including former NCP leader Padamsinh Patil, in the 2006 Pawanraje Nimbalkar double murder case. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister confirmed the appeal to the Bombay High Court, citing disappointment with the special court's decision. The acquittal, nearly two decades after the murders, hinged on the unreliability of a key witness. This high-profile political murder case is set for further legal battle.

Highlighting the NTA's web-activity records, the test-conducting body said its record indicated that the city was changed through «candidate's own registered login credentials» during the open correction window. The NTA also claimed that the centre was previewed twice from the candidates' credentials. «​Despite that NTA has accorded to aspirant’s request and the change of centre was actioned,» the body said. ​​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated President Droupadi Murmu's birthday by highlighting her dedication to public service before joining her in Odisha. Their visit included engagements in her native Mayurbhanj district and the inauguration of development projects exceeding Rs 47,600 crore. These initiatives span energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and more, aiming to boost connectivity and create jobs across the state.

A political storm has erupted in Varanasi after Congress workers depicted Rahul Gandhi as Lord Parshuram, performing a symbolic milk ablution on his photograph. The BJP has strongly condemned the act, accusing the Congress of disrespecting Hindu faith and using religious symbols for political gain. Congress leaders, however, defended the gesture, questioning the BJP's monopoly on religious figures and asserting Gandhi's distinct identity.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has strongly criticized Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, labeling him a «dishonest leader» who betrayed the party. Raut also drew parallels with West Bengal's Suvendu Adhikari, suggesting both leaders make provocative statements while in power. He warned that public backlash awaits them once their power diminishes, amidst speculation of MPs switching parties.

West Bengal Police have apprehended Sarina Bibi, wife of former TMC leader Jahangir Khan, for allegedly masterminding an attack on Falta police station. The incident aimed to free Khan from custody. This arrest is part of a wider crackdown on Khan's alleged criminal network, following his own apprehension near the India-Nepal border. Investigations into the attack are ongoing, with further arrests anticipated.

India has achieved a significant leadership role in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with Vivek Aggarwal elected as its Vice President. This appointment underscores India's commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing globally. Aggarwal's extensive experience, including leading India's FATF delegation and heading the Financial Intelligence Unit, will bolster the organization's efforts to secure financial integrity and dismantle illicit financial systems.

Political tensions escalate between Shiv Sena factions as Sanjay Raut fires back at Eknath Shinde's 'lion' jibe with a post calling some people disloyal dogs. This follows speculation of six Uddhav Thackeray camp MPs potentially defecting to Shinde's side. Raut announced action, including disqualification efforts, against the absent MPs, while Thackeray emotionally appealed to workers, vowing not to hand the party to 'thieves'.