India

PM Modi urges ministries to stay dynamic, youth-focused and citizen-centric

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on key government ministries to adopt a youthful, forward-looking approach in their functioning. He emphasized the importance of encouraging young entrepreneurs to actively participate in critical sectors of the economy. Ministries were directed to develop industry-relevant courses to build skills suited to emerging sectors. Modi also highlighted the need for proactive communication strategies to counter misinformation surrounding major national programmes. He reiterated that citizens must remain at the heart of all governance decisions and policy reforms.

Zelensky Urges Trump to Supply Anti-Ballistic Missiles for Ukraine's Defense

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that he personally communicated Ukraine's weapons needs to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelensky stated that Ukraine currently possesses drones capable of neutralizing Iranian and Russian-made drones. However, he emphasized that Ukraine lacks sufficient weaponry to counter ballistic missile threats. He specifically called for anti-ballistic missile systems and additional missiles to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses.

Government to Amend MSME Act for Faster Payments and Better Liquidity

The Indian government plans to introduce amendments to the MSME Development Act aimed at improving financial conditions for small businesses. The proposed changes include mandatory digital invoicing and stronger safeguards against delayed payments to MSMEs. New facilitation councils will be established to speed up dispute resolution processes. A free national digital registration platform is also set to be launched under the revised framework. These measures are intended to enhance liquidity and ease of doing business for small and medium enterprises.

Centre releases 7th draft to protect 56,825 sq km of Western Ghats

The Indian government has issued its seventh draft notification to designate ecologically sensitive zones across the Western Ghats. The proposal seeks to bring 56,825 square kilometres spanning six states under protected status. Several states, particularly Kerala, have opposed earlier drafts citing concerns over the impact on local livelihoods. The latest version includes a phased implementation approach, which could help accelerate the process. Efforts to conserve the ecologically fragile Western Ghats region have been ongoing since 2011.

Government limits officers to one official vehicle, bans PSU car use except on tour

The Indian government has introduced stricter rules governing the use of official vehicles by its employees. Under the new policy, each officer will be entitled to only one official car, regardless of any additional charges they may hold. Officers are also prohibited from using vehicles belonging to public sector undertakings, except during official tours. The measures are aimed at optimizing vehicle utilization and curbing misuse of government assets. All ministries and departments have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the revised guidelines.

7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Kills Five in Japan

A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan, resulting in five fatalities. The deaths were confirmed by Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency on Wednesday. The earthquake was classified as a major seismic event based on its magnitude. Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of damage and casualties in the affected region.

You were at Delhi protest, but your police booked protesters in Kerala: Pinarayi Vijayan to CM Satheesan

2022 Khargone communal violence: 11 accused acquitted by court as prosecution case collapses

2,000 farmers march towards Bhopal, bedding and cooking material in hand

‘Granted leave only after stillbirth’, teacher’s family claims officials demanded Rs 50,000 bribe

Prashant Kishor’s ‘AI video’ claim, BJP chief’s temple visits — last day in a busy Bihar campaign

India may introduce law making deepfakes and digital arrests distinct offences

The Indian government is considering introducing new legislation to specifically address digital arrests and AI-generated deepfakes. Current laws lack clear definitions for these emerging forms of digital crime, creating gaps in legal enforcement. The Supreme Court has urged the government to establish dedicated offences for both issues. The proposed bill would formally categorise digital arrest and deepfakes as separate criminal offences. It is also expected to include provisions for stringent punishments and asset freezing measures.

Ex-UFC Fighter Anthony Smith Arrested in Nebraska on Three Felony Charges

Former UFC fighter Anthony Smith has been arrested in Nebraska and charged with three felonies: domestic violence causing serious bodily injury, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. Authorities have not disclosed details about the alleged incident. The most serious charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if Smith is convicted. The case remains in its early stages with no further official information released.

NMC shifts MBBS disability assessment to functional ability over percentage

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has introduced new guidelines for MBBS admissions that assess the functional abilities of disabled candidates rather than relying solely on their disability percentage. Medical boards will be responsible for evaluating what candidates can do, marking a shift from the previous approach. Dedicated enabling units will be set up to offer support and ensure a barrier-free learning environment for students with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations and assistive devices will be factored into admission decisions before any candidate is assessed. The new framework aims to promote inclusive medical education while continuing to prioritize patient safety.

Indian Army Launches 14-Day Security Training for CISF Staff at Agartala

The Indian Army has begun a 14-day specialized training program for Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel at Agartala Military Station. The initiative focuses on advanced security protocols, tactical preparedness, and countering emerging threats. Army instructors will train participants in critical area security and drone mitigation techniques. The joint effort is aimed at strengthening aviation security at Agartala airport and boosting its overall defense readiness.

India Blames Pakistan for Blocking SAARC Regional Cooperation Progress

India has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to regional cooperation in South Asia, stating it has actively worked toward that goal for decades. Speaking on the matter, Indian officials implied without naming it directly that Pakistan is responsible for obstructing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). India suggested that the international community is well aware of which country and its activities are hindering the bloc's progress. SAARC has remained largely dysfunctional in recent years, with India-Pakistan tensions widely cited as a key reason for the grouping's stalled agenda.

IPS trainee arrested in sexual harassment case that rocked National Police Academy

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey to name Indian politician linked to UK firm in Parliament

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has announced plans to disclose details about a UK-registered company called Backops Limited inside Parliament. He claims an Indian politician holds a directorship in the firm and intends to reveal the identity publicly. Dubey has also pointed to two individuals, Brian Lovegrove and Ulrik McKnight, whom he links to the company. According to the MP, these individuals are associated with multiple companies and TV channels registered at a single address. Dubey has indicated that he will present his findings in Parliament shortly.

CBI Files Chargesheet Against 13 in NEET-UG Paper Leak Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a chargesheet naming 13 individuals in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak scandal. Among those charged are three subject experts from the National Testing Agency and multiple middlemen who allegedly facilitated the distribution of leaked questions. Investigators confirmed that the compromised material circulated before the examination was conducted. Digital forensic analysis and expert testimony were used to establish the accused's roles in the leak. The CBI indicated that its probe is continuing and a supplementary chargesheet is expected to follow.

US Military Intercepts Multiple Iranian Missiles in Fresh Escalation

The US military announced on Tuesday that it had successfully intercepted multiple missiles fired by Iran. The interception marks the first outbreak of hostilities in several days following a period of relative calm. No further details were immediately provided regarding the location or scale of the missile launches. The incident signals a renewed flare-up in tensions between the United States and Iran.