Neeraj Chopra Breaches 90m Barrier in Javelin; PM Modi Hails Achievement
Star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra made history by breaching the 90-meter mark for the first time, recording a massive 90.23m throw at the Doha Diamond League. He secured second place, narrowly behind Germany's Julian Weber. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Chopra's "relentless dedication, discipline, and passion," stating that "India is elated and proud" of this significant milestone in Indian athletics.
Lightning Strikes Claim Nine Lives Across Odisha Amid Thunderstorms
At least nine people, including six women, were killed and others injured in separate lightning strike incidents across Odisha due to severe thunderstorms. Fatalities were reported in Koraput (three), Jajpur (two), Ganjam (two), Dhenkanal (one), and Gajapati (one) districts. Authorities have issued weather alerts as the state grapples with the impact of these natural disasters, highlighting the dangers posed by extreme weather.
Report: Trump Administration Considered Relocating 1 Million Palestinians to Libya
A report by NBC News claims the Trump administration seriously considered a plan to permanently relocate one million Palestinians to Libya amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. The plan was reportedly under "serious consideration," and discussions were allegedly held with Libya's leadership. This controversial proposal, if true, would have had significant geopolitical ramifications and reflects an unconventional approach to the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
R Praggnanandhaa Triumphs at Superbet Chess Classic After Tiebreak
Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa secured a significant victory, winning his first-ever Grand Chess Tour tournament, the Superbet Classic. He showcased remarkable skill by defeating France's Maxime Vachier-Lagrave in a challenging tiebreak. This triumph marks a major milestone in the young chess prodigy's burgeoning career, adding another prestigious title to his name and bringing pride to India in the international chess arena.
India Ramps Up Defence Posture: Rajnath Reviews Bhuj, Warns IMF on Pak Aid, Major Budget Hike Planned
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed Bhuj airbase post-'Operation Sindoor' and India-Pakistan ceasefire extension. He cautioned the IMF against funding potentially supporting terror in Pakistan. India also plans a ₹50,000 crore defence budget increase. These actions highlight a strengthened national security focus and a firm stance on cross-border terrorism, reinforcing India's commitment to bolstering its military preparedness and strategic capabilities in the volatile South Asian region.
Jaishankar Makes Historic Call to Taliban Foreign Minister
In a landmark diplomatic move, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held the first publicly acknowledged phone conversation with Taliban's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Discussions included bilateral ties, humanitarian aid, and regional security. Jaishankar also appreciated Muttaqi's condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. This direct engagement signals a significant evolution in India's approach towards Afghanistan, reflecting adaptive diplomatic strategies within the complex regional geopolitical dynamics.
Six Terrorists Neutralised in Twin Kashmir Operations
Security forces achieved a significant success in Jammu and Kashmir, neutralising six terrorists in two distinct anti-terror operations conducted in the Kelar and Tral areas. Major General Dhananjay Joshi, GOC Victor Force, provided details of the successful encounters. This highlights the ongoing efforts to counter militancy and ensure security in the region, reflecting the persistent challenges and the security forces' proactive measures to maintain peace.
UK High Court Rejects Fugitive Diamantaire Nirav Modi's Fresh Bail Plea
The High Court in London denied a new bail application from fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, who is contesting extradition to India for the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud. Modi has been in UK prison for over six years. This ruling is a setback for Modi and a positive development for Indian authorities seeking his return to face charges of money laundering and fraud in the large-scale banking scam.
Adani Terminates Airport Pacts with Turkish Firm Celebi After Security Clearance Revocation
Adani Airport Holdings has terminated its partnership with Turkish firm Celebi for Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports after the Union government revoked Celebi's security clearance due to national security concerns. Celebi India refuted these "false allegations," reaffirming its commitment to India's aviation sector. This development highlights the government's strict stance on security protocols for critical infrastructure projects, especially those involving foreign companies, ensuring national interests are safeguarded.
New York State Senate Adopts Resolution Marking 75 Years of Indian Constitution
The New York State Senate passed a resolution commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, introduced by Indian-origin State Senator Jeremy Cooney. This act recognizes India's democratic values and its foundational legal document internationally. It underscores the global significance of India's constitutional journey and its contributions to democratic principles, fostering goodwill and acknowledging a key milestone in India's history as a sovereign democratic republic.
Supreme Court Rules ISKCON Bengaluru Society Owns Iconic Hare Krishna Temple
The Supreme Court ruled that Bengaluru's iconic Hare Krishna temple and educational complex belong to ISKCON Society Bengaluru, not ISKCON Mumbai. The apex court sided with ISKCON Bangalore's plea, overturning a Karnataka High Court order favouring the Mumbai faction. This judgment resolves a protracted dispute over control of the prominent religious institution, clarifying its administration and bringing closure to the contentious legal battle between the two ISKCON entities.
Nation Greets Sikkim on its 50th Statehood Day Anniversary
Sikkim celebrated its 50th Statehood Day, marking its establishment as India's 22nd state on May 16, 1975. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among other leaders, greeted the people. PM Modi praised Sikkim's strides in diverse sectors. The anniversary underscores Sikkim's unique cultural identity and its developmental journey within India, celebrating national integration and the state's contributions to the country's rich tapestry.
Electricity Reaches 17 Remote Maoist-Hit Chhattisgarh Villages for First Time
In a key development, 17 remote Maoist-affected Chhattisgarh villages received electricity for the first time. This ₹3 crore project will benefit around 540 families, improving living standards and fostering economic opportunities. This initiative is a significant step towards integrating isolated communities and part of the government's strategy to counter left-wing extremism through development, bringing essential services to previously unreached areas and enhancing quality of life.
Hrithik Roshan Ignites "War 2" Frenzy with NTR Birthday Surprise Tease
Hrithik Roshan amplified excitement for "War 2" by teasing a "big birthday surprise" for co-star NTR Jr. via social media. As NTR's birthday nears, this cryptic post fueled fan speculation about a potential first look or major announcement for the anticipated sequel. The tease has successfully generated significant buzz, engaging fans of both stars and building anticipation for the action-packed film, showcasing smart pre-release marketing strategy.
Pakistan Signals Willingness to Discuss Indus Waters Treaty with India
Pakistan has signalled readiness to discuss India's concerns regarding the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), weeks after New Delhi put the treaty in abeyance following the Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan's Water Resources Secretary Syed Ali Murtaza reportedly responded to India, urging reconsideration of the suspension and citing the dependence of millions on the treaty-regulated waters. This development indicates a potential diplomatic dialogue over the critical water-sharing agreement.