The discussions took place during the 12th Meeting of the Heads of Border Services of the Competent Authorities of the SCO member states, which was chaired by Pakistan, according to a statement issued by the country's Foreign Office. Representatives from Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, along with officials from the Executive Committee of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), attended the meeting.

Skyroot Aerospace launched India's first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1. The vehicle successfully placed four technology demonstration satellites into low-Earth orbit. This launch marks a significant milestone in opening India's space sector to private companies. Vikram-1 utilized advanced carbon-composite structures and a restartable liquid-fuelled module. The mission validates India's capabilities in private orbital launch vehicle development.

Medical aspirants demonstrated remarkable resilience after the NEET-UG exam cancellation. Many students faced renewed preparation challenges and anxieties. Top performers like Aryan Gupta and Panshul Bansal achieved exceptional scores. Their success highlights dedication and effective coping mechanisms during adversity. The merit list reflects perseverance and determination among these young individuals.

NEET-UG 2026 attendance revealed regional disparities across India. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka experienced significant candidate absenteeism this year. Rajasthan, however, saw increased registrations and a strong qualification rate. Other northern states like Uttar Pradesh also reported lower absentee numbers. This shift highlights evolving patterns in medical entrance examination participation.

Defers adoption of report on Contentious bill to oust PM, CMs

Visa and consular services are severely impacted in four Indian missions abroad. The Delhi High Court had quashed the selection of private service providers for these crucial functions. The Centre informed the Supreme Court that these services are now at a standstill. This cancellation has forced missions to divert staff to meet emergency needs. The Supreme Court agreed to hear the Centre's appeal on Monday.

NEET-UG's qualifying cutoff reached a record high of 213 marks this year. Fewer candidates cleared the exam, while attendance also saw a substantial decline. The success rate among those who appeared remained nearly unchanged at 56.1 percent. Reserved category qualifiers for EWS and OBC exceeded sixty percent of their appeared cohort. Unreserved qualifiers now constitute less than fifty percent of the total qualified candidates.

Political momentum builds for the government's Constitution amendment bill. DMK and NCP (SP) signals suggest support for the upcoming legislation. This comes after recent political realignments and party splits. The government plans to incorporate changes to assure fence-sitters. The bill aims to increase Lok Sabha seats and implement women's reservation.

National Medical Commission regulations have changed regarding medical college establishment. Previously, only Section 8 companies could set up medical colleges. Now, all companies incorporated under the Companies Act can establish medical institutions. This shift follows earlier amendments allowing private companies to enter medical education. The government aims to increase transparency and revenue through this policy.

SC to take up high cost of lifesaver meds

The Supreme Court has mandated states to construct washrooms for women lawyers. This directive addresses a significant human rights and health issue for advocates. States are given a six-week deadline to complete the construction of these facilities. The court rejected pleas of fund paucity, suggesting alternative revenue sources. This action aims to ensure women lawyers can practice with dignity and health.

A man was shot dead in Doda district following an encounter with police personnel. Mobile internet services were suspended across the district as tensions escalated rapidly. Three police officers sustained injuries during the confrontation on Jai valley road. Locals protested the death, and a shutdown was called by a local outfit. Authorities are investigating the incident, and senior officials are present in Bhaderwah.

India's space department faces a growing manpower crunch, with over twenty-five percent of sanctioned posts vacant. This staffing gap has widened significantly since 2019, impacting critical mission development. Recruitment processes were delayed due to Covid-19 and reforms, creating a substantial gap. Efforts are underway to fill over two thousand vacancies by late 2026. The department must rebuild its workforce while retaining experienced scientists.

Jammu and Kashmir politics intensifies as the National Conference plans a protest in New Delhi. The Congress party announced its participation in the proposed sit-in demonstration. Meanwhile, the BJP has scheduled a protest against the current government's alleged corruption. Peoples Conference chief Sajad Lone questioned the timing and motives behind the protest. He suggested an assembly session and an all-party delegation instead of street protests.

A Jammu court rejected Kamal Singh Jamwal's bail plea in the Farooq Abdullah assassination attempt case. The judge cited wider implications for public order and democratic stability in the decision. Jamwal's medical plea was also dismissed, with no evidence of mental disorder presented. Charges were formally framed against Jamwal under attempt to murder and arms act provisions. The court directed the prosecution to produce witnesses for the upcoming trial.

Three former Trinamool Congress MPs have been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha. They switched to the Bharatiya Janata Party just days before their election. These leaders resigned from their previous posts last month after election results. Their return to the Upper House on BJP tickets marks a significant political shift. This development follows the Trinamool Congress's defeat in recent assembly elections.

There are strong speculations that the government is planning to reintroduce the Delimitation Bill during upcoming Monsoon Session. The Bill could not pass the numbers test during the Budget session. Opposition parties, which were united in their opposition to the Bill in April, appear to be divided now over the idea of uniform seat increase. Some parties may support the bill if their concerns are addressed. The Congress fears isolation and has requested an all-party meeting for discussions. The proposed 50% seat increase aims to facilitate women's reservation without altering current proportions.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti criticized the government's silence on Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike. Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike for twenty days demanding action. He is protesting alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and paper leaks. Doctors have warned of critical health risks if the hunger strike continues. Wangchuk vows to continue his protest until July twentieth for a government response.