A rare hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship with two Indian crew members has sparked international attention. Experts assure no immediate concern for India, citing previous sporadic cases. The Andes strain, linked to limited human-to-human spread, requires close exposure, unlike COVID-19. India's healthcare is prepared for potential cases.

New AI systems are now available to combat fraud in the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. These advanced tools can identify fake hospital bills and forged medical documents. The technology aims to speed up insurance claim settlements and enhance transparency. India is leading the Global South with its health AI benchmarking platform.

Tamil Nadu's government formation remains uncertain as TVK emerges as the single largest party but falls short of a majority. Allies are scrambling for numbers, with some extending support while others withdraw, creating a volatile political landscape. Efforts are underway to secure the necessary support to stake a claim to power.

The council is hopelessly split, with Reform, the Conservatives, Greens and Muslim sectarian independents all picking up seats.

RECAP: Follow the results and reaction from the UK local elections across England, Scotland and Wales in the biggest test of public opinion since Labour's landslide win in the 2024 general election.

The Supreme Court emphasized its reluctance to direct arrests, prioritizing evidence collection and witness protection. While monitoring investigations, the bench declined to comment on the merits of the Anil Ambani Group (ADAG) case, citing past collateral damage to reputations. The CBI has filed nine FIRs totaling Rs 27,337 crore against ADAG entities.

The Times of India secured top honors at the INMA awards in Berlin, winning first prize for «Thirukkural With The Times» in Best Use of Print (Regional) and third prize for «I am Kolkata, Amar Para» in Best Use of Social Media (Regional). The publication also received three honorary mentions for its reader engagement, video content, and revenue diversification strategies.

The Supreme Court has ordered the release of a murder convict after 22 years, criticizing the Orissa High Court for dismissing his appeal solely on grounds of delay. The apex court invoked its extraordinary powers under Article 142, highlighting the convict's satisfactory jail conduct and lack of legal aid.

The Supreme Court stated that illegal infiltration by Bangladeshi nationals is not a terrorist act, even as the BJP vows to expel them from West Bengal. The court granted bail to an individual arrested for facilitating illegal immigration, noting the porous border with Bangladesh and the large number of immigrants already in India.

The Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval of Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah's controversial remarks, questioning the state government's decision on prosecuting him. Despite the Solicitor General suggesting the minister intended praise, the bench noted a lack of repentance and the statement's unfortunate impact. The court also directed the SIT to investigate other instances of the minister's objectionable statements.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection against AI-generated deepfake videos depicting him praising Pakistan and discussing sensitive political matters. He argued that such content could harm India's international standing and be exploited by foreign entities.

Families and researchers are advocating for Huntington's disease to be recognized as a rare disease in India to establish a much-needed registry. This recognition is crucial for quantifying patient numbers, improving treatment accessibility, and securing coverage under national health policies, offering hope for affected individuals and families.

Indian Haj pilgrims are questioning a mandatory Rs 7,000 GPS smartwatch, part of a Rs 10,000 airfare hike. Many devices, procured by the Haj Committee and supplied by Sekyo Innovations, reportedly fail to turn on or track pilgrims, causing distress, especially for the elderly. This initiative, aimed at safety, faces criticism over cost and execution.

The Russian pavilion’s return to Venice points to a wider European shift as cultural and sporting bans on Moscow now face growing resistance Read Full Article at RT.com

Congress leadership intervened as supporters of opposition leader V D Satheesan held demonstrations across Kerala, demanding his appointment as the next chief minister. Some activists allegedly tore down posters of AICC leader K C Venugopal, also a contender for the post, prompting the KPCC to direct workers to refrain from such actions.

Preparations are in full swing at Kolkata's Brigade Parade Ground to ensure Saturday's oath-taking ceremony for Bengal's first BJP government proceeds smoothly despite heavy rains. A massive waterproof hangar tent has been erected, and seating capacity has been significantly increased. Authorities are working round-the-clock to restore the grounds, with an indoor stadium on standby as a backup.

Kolkata's iconic Writers' Buildings and other government offices will glow orange on Saturday evening, marking the first day of the new BJP government. Illumination trials were conducted Friday. The historic Writers' facade, along with Assembly House and Kolkata Collectorate, will be lit up. Inside, preparations are underway for the new Chief Minister's symbolic visit.

Supreme Court rulings consistently state governors must invite the largest party or alliance to form government post-election, without questioning how support was gained. The apex court has warned against dismissing governments or dissolving assemblies based on 'fanciful assumptions' of horse-trading, emphasizing that majority must be proven on the floor of the House.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared the BJP's West Bengal victory a national security triumph, promising to identify and remove infiltrators. He criticized the TMC for political violence and criminalization, vowing a new era of fearless governance and dismantling the 'syndicate raj'.

Congress leadership is deliberating on the Kerala CM post, weighing intra-party support for KC Venugopal against public sentiment favoring VD Satheesan. A decision is expected by Sunday, with discussions involving key state leaders and central party chiefs in Delhi.

Bengal CM-designate Suvendu Adhikari's aide Chandranath Rath's murder probe now includes contract killers from UP and Odisha. Sleuths are focusing on Montu Mondal, who was in the SUV during the attack and escaped. A car used in the crime was traced to a Matigara owner who'd advertised it for sale online.

The Supreme Court refused to consolidate multiple FIRs against Sameer Agrawal, accused of defrauding thousands of investors of Rs 10,000 crore and fleeing to Dubai. The court emphasized a victim-centric approach, stating that each instance of cheating warrants an independent FIR. It suggested considering consolidation only if duped investors collectively petitioned, and if Agrawal deposits the full refund amount.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that future wars will hinge on innovative thinking and synergy, not just weaponry. He urged commanders to prioritize artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and secure communications, stressing the need to anticipate enemy surprises and stay ahead. Singh highlighted hybrid threats and multi-domain operations, commending the forces' jointness and technological adoption.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has accused the West of rewriting the history of World War II Read Full Article at RT.com

Leaked tapes reportedly implicate a former senior SAPO investigator as Timur Mindich’s informant inside the agency Read Full Article at RT.com

A charge-sheet has been filed by the SIT against Kamal Singh Jamwal, 63, for the attempted assassination of former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah. Jamwal allegedly fired at Abdullah during a wedding ceremony in Jammu, driven by resentment over Kashmiri migrant issues. The SIT's investigation indicates a pre-meditated intent to target the politician.

An IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Patna made an emergency landing in Lucknow due to adverse weather conditions in Patna. The aircraft, carrying 180 passengers and six crew members, was diverted after being unable to receive landing clearance. The flight later departed for Patna once the weather improved.

New labour codes have capped weekly working hours at 48, with overtime paid at double the hourly wage. Final rules for wages and industrial relations codes are out, paving the way for implementation. A National Reskilling Fund will support retrenched workers with new skills, financed by employers.