India sends relief supplies to earthquake-hit Venezuela
New Delhi: India on Friday, June 26, launched Operation Amistad to aid Venezuela after the two consecutive earthquakes killed nearly 600 people and injured thousands of others. As part of the operation, India shipped over 35 tonnes of relief supplies and an army field hospital unit with two Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft, External Affairs Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Indian Army Chief Meets UAE Military Officials to Strengthen Defense Cooperation
New Delhi, June 26: Brigadier General Staff Mohammed Khamis Mohammed Al-Hosani, Deputy Commander of the UAE Army, met with Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday. The discussions focused on enhancing military cooperation between India and the UAE. The Indian Armys Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared on social media platform X, ... Read more Indian Army Chief Meets UAE Military Officials to Strengthen Defense Cooperation
Weather Tomorrow June 27: According to IMD, heavy to very heavy monsoon rains lash the west, south, east, and Northeast, parts of Uttar Pradesh endure severe heatwave conditions. Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan anticipate thunderstorms. Hill states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are under a rain watch, with potential for localized disruptions. Central and Eastern India are set for active monsoon showers.
Amit Shah Advocates Strong Action Against Drug Traffickers While Supporting Victims
New Delhi, June 26: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah chaired the 10th high-level meeting of the Narco-Co-ordination Centre (NCORD) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Friday. He launched the Vision Document on Narcotics Control (2026-2029) and the NCB Annual Report 2025, while also inaugurating the zonal offices of the Narcotics Control ... Read more Amit Shah Advocates Strong Action Against Drug Traffickers While Supporting Victims
Japanese PM To Be In Delhi Next Week
PM Takaichis visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Tokyo in August 2025 for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. MEA added that the visit reflects the shared commitment of the two countries to further enhance IndiaJapan Special Strategic and Global Partnership
Allegations Surrounding Ram Temple Donations Disturb Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain
New Delhi, June 26: Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain expressed his dismay over the allegations of irregularities in the donation box of the Ram Temple. He emphasized the need to establish a system that prevents such incidents in the future. In an interview with a news agency on Friday, Jain stated, I never thought in my ... Read more Allegations Surrounding Ram Temple Donations Disturb Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain
Amit Shah chairs 10th apex-level meeting of NCORD, unveils vision document on drug control
New Delhi, June 26: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah chaired the 10th apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) in New Delhi today. The Home Minister released the Vision Document on Drug Control (2026-2029) and the NCB Annual Report-2025, and also e-inaugurated NCB zonal offices in Jammu and Guwahati. Shri Amit Shah further launched the 'Online Drugs Disposal Fortnight Campaign' for the destruction of narcotics weighing 2,09,500 kg and valued at 6,000 crore. In his address, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that today our country stands at a critical turning point in the fight against narcotics, where the next three years will decide whether addiction will defeat us or we will defeat addiction. He stated that for the future of the country over the next 100 years, we must win this battle with firm determination and collective efforts. This fight cannot be waged by any single department, state, government, or individual. Instead, all states and their concerned departments must come together on a single platform. In this fight, we must also involve people who inspire the public, the youth who will shape the nations future, and our women power. Only then can we achieve complete success in this battle. Shah emphasized that the issue of narcotic drugs is not merely a matter of law and order or public health. It is deeply connected to the countrys internal security, social stability, protection of economic interests, and the future of our youth and, through them, the future of the nation. Achieving complete victory over this problem should be a collective national goal for all states of India. Amit Shah said that along with drug trafficking, organized crime, narco-terror financing, and the funding of cross-border terrorist networks, this problem has also evolved into an Evolving Narco-Terrorism Ecosystem. For the internal security of our country, the protection of our economy, and the future of our youth generation, we must achieve complete victory over this menace. We are geographically situated between the Death Triangle and the Death Crescent. Drug traffickers have made our fight even more challenging by adopting advanced methods such as drone-based drops, containerized cargo through sea routes, the Darknet, crypto payments, order-to-delivery models, parcel shipments, and other similar techniques. Today, narco-offenders have become technology-empowered and network-based. They now confront us as a form of multi-domain crime. Our response to this difficult battle must also be collective and organized, roadmap-based, modern, and intelligence-led. Our approach should be technology-driven, and we must wage a network-centric war with a ruthless approach. Only then will we be able to secure victory against this problem. Union Home Minister said that we must maintain a ruthless approach towards those involved in drug trafficking and a sympathetic approach towards the victims of drugs. He added that it is our compassion and goodwill that can reconnect these children with a normal life. We have to hold their hand and guide them back onto the right path. Amit Shah said that in the presentation made here today, our fight has been very clearly articulated under four pillars, and sub-pillars under each pillar have also been clearly defined. Targets have been set for each sub-pillar along with the timelines to achieve them. We will review this plan after one year, redefine it as needed, and then move forward with renewed strength for the final two years of this battle. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Drug Disposal Fortnight has begun today. He stated that destroying drugs worth 6,000 crore in a single day is a significant achievement. Today, the Annual Report of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) was also released. Along with this, the Vision Document of the Roadmap for Nasha Mukt Bharat was also unveiled.The Guwahati and Jammu Zonal Offices of the NCB were also inaugurated today. So far, 15,876 district-level NCORD meetings, 266 state-level meetings, 7 Executive Committee meetings, and today we are holding the 10th meeting at the apex level. Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police of all states should make concerted efforts to make NCORD meetings result-oriented. Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and has also given us the target of Nasha Mukt Bharat. The roadmap from 2026 to 2029 prepared to achieve this goal is based on four major pillars Enforcement, Intelligence and Operations; Precursors and Synthetic Drug Control; Demand and Harm Reduction; and Capacity Building, Coordination and Monitoring. Its aim is to conduct targeted intelligence-led action against the entire network and destroy it completely. We have to adopt a strategy to stop drugs at the production stage itself. The campaign for demand reduction and harm reduction will be taken forward through society, education and rehabilitation. The fourth pillar of Capacity Building, Coordination and Monitoring has been created to make the entire system capable, coordinated, accountable and modern. This roadmap has been prepared keeping in mind the Whole of Government Approach and Whole of Society Approach. It includes the role of every citizen of India, but the work of inspiring citizens will have to be done by all State Governments and Secretaries of all Departments of the Government of India. The success of this roadmap and the timely achievement of its targets is a shared responsibility and a proper monitoring mechanism has also been put in place. Union Home Minister said that the fight against drugs can be described in three words Detect, Disrupt and Destroy. We have to move forward to destroy all three types of cartels those who bring drugs from abroad into the country, those who supply them from the borders to the states, and those who distribute them from states to the end users by using HUMINT, technical intelligence, and community policing in border and sensitive districts. All our financial agencies must work in full coordination to prepare a joint programme for monitoring the Dark Web, hawala transactions, crypto transactions, and usage of ports and airports. Under Disrupt, we must hit the drug traffickers at every level their sources, transit routes, financing, and leadership with full force of the law. We need to launch a campaign to destroy illegal crops. Agencies must develop a system to identify illegal laboratories and destroy them strictly. We also need to find ways to counter the new method of controlled delivery operations and, with continuous improvements, monitor and take them to their logical conclusion. Shri Shah said that through PMLA and ED, we must conduct financial investigations against drug traffickers very ruthlessly. It is also our responsibility to dismantle their networks through this. Under Destroy, we must ruthlessly finish the networks in such a way that they do not rise again. The kingpins who are caught must not be allowed to escape. All necessary provisions for this are already available in our laws. Through de-addiction and rehabilitation, we have to reduce the demand side and move towards destroying the supply side. This entire roadmap has been prepared on the foundation of these three words Detect, Disrupt and Destroy. Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, all Ministries of the Government of India, all States and all departments will have to collectively move forward to implement a policy of zero tolerance against drugs on the ground. In major NDPS cases, financial investigation must be made mandatory by the State Police Chiefs. The entire process of identifying proceeds of crime, freezing them, seizing them, and ensuring they do not return to the accused even from jail will have to be made evidence-based and equipped with modern technology. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also taken up the matter with all High Courts to set up special courts, ensure adequate number of judges, and give priority to daily hearings in major cases for early disposal. We will not be able to effectively follow the money trail until we ensure real-time sharing of information. Therefore, real-time data sharing must be ensured. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that we also need to review the scheduling of precursors and psychotropic substances and ensure effective action against narco-financing. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment must expand the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign, public awareness drives, community participation, and treatment & rehabilitation services. Only then can we successfully reduce demand. The Ministry of Health must ensure strict monitoring of pharmaceutical diversion and online pharmacies. Under the Ministry of Education, the Departments of School Education and Higher Education must adopt the Drug-Free Campus framework. Along with this, we must ensure awareness among parents and teachers by taking this concept forward with everyones consensus. Amit Shah said that NCRB, NFSU, DFSS, I4C and NATGRID will have to do extensive work at their respective levels for cartel identification. States should convert their ANTFs into full-time units and transform them into dedicated, well-resourced, equipped and accountable units. The State Police Chiefs must take personal interest in this. In cases involving commercial quantities of drugs, financial investigation and backward-forward linkages must become a crucial part of our investigations, because without this we cannot destroy the entire network. State and district-level NCORD meetings should be made output-oriented and monitored very effectively. We must move towards appointing Special Public Prosecutors for strong chargesheets and effective prosecution. State Police Chiefs should approach the High Courts through their Home Departments to establish exclusive NDPS courts. For demand reduction, treatment, rehabilitation, awareness programmes, and to create awareness among parents, professors and teachers, every state should appoint a nodal officer in each department. Along with this, through the CBI we have launched a campaign to bring back fugitives, in which we have achieved very good success. I also urge all State Governments that those drug traffickers and gangsters from your states who are hiding abroad should be targeted by issuing Red Corner Notices, utilising the CBI and other agencies to initiate the process of bringing them back. Union Home Minister said that between 2004 and 2014, drugs worth 40,000 crore 26 lakh kilograms of synthetic drugs were seized. In contrast, from 2014 to 2026, drugs worth 1,84,000 crore 1 crore 18 lakh kilograms have been seized. This shows that our campaign is moving forward successfully. From 2004 to 2014, drugs worth 8,000 crore (3,26,000 kilograms) were destroyed, whereas between 2014 and 2026, drugs worth 89,896 crore (42,47,000 kilograms) have been destroyed. Similarly, we have continuously increased the destruction of illegal cultivation. In 2020, 10,000 acres of illegal opium crops were destroyed, while in 2025 we destroyed 42,282 acres. Between 2004 and 2014, there were 1,73,000 cases in which 1,95,000 arrests were made. From 2014 to 2026, 8,75,000 cases have been registered and 10,97,000 people have been arrested. These figures prove that when we make sincere efforts, success is definitely achieved. The Modi Government has made our efforts specific, focused the targets, made them time-bound, and after identifying all aspects of the fight against drugs, we have prepared this roadmap. Amit Shah said that if we fight this battle together and in unity, victory will definitely be ours. In the next three years, we will make massive progress towards eliminating the drug networks in India. If all of us set a clear target for these three years, work hard with collective efforts, and move forward with fixed timelines and a shared strategy, then our victory is certain.
Indias Drone Production Ecosystem Is Evolving
New Delhis accelerating militarization of drone technologies not only risks deepening existing asymmetries, but will also fuel a regional drone arms race.
New Delhi, June 26: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially announced the recruitment of eligible candidates for a total of 49 positions of Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) and Lower Division Clerk (LDC) under the Departmental Competitive Examination, 2025 for the Central Secretariat Service (CSSC) in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The online ... Read more SSC Recruitment 2026: Applications Open for 49 Junior Secretariat Assistant/Lower Division Clerk Positions
Oliver Kahn: FIFA World Cup Brings Extraordinary Talent and Passion
New Delhi, June 26: German football icon and Golden Ball winner Oliver Kahn believes that the FIFA World Cup is a tournament that showcases extraordinary talent and passion from around the globe. The former Bayern Munich goalkeeper stated, Despite the significance of club competitions, the FIFA World Cup remains the biggest event. Kahn expressed on ... Read more Oliver Kahn: FIFA World Cup Brings Extraordinary Talent and Passion
310 Delhi Families Survived Every Yamuna Flood, Then Bulldozer Uprooted Them
The families are homeless after the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) carried out a demolition drive in the Yamuna Bazar area.
TATA Starbucks Reimagines its Loyalty Program with New Rewards and Enhanced Benefits
TATA Starbucks has announced the launch of its reimagined Starbucks Rewards program, featuring Green, Gold and the newly introduced Reserve tier. The enhanced program is designed to offer members greater value through faster earning, easier redemption and access to a broader suite of rewards, benefits and experiences as they progress through the program. The updated tiers include: Green: The entry tier where members can earn Starbucks Rewards faster, and choose to redeem Rewards of their choice Gold: Customers can get upgraded to Gold by accumulating 1000 Stars within a year of joining Reserve: Comes with a sleek, black personalized card customized with the customers name and the first year they joined the program. Customers can get upgraded on accumulating 5000+ Stars within a year of joining TATA Starbucks Reimagines its Loyalty Program with New Rewards and Enhanced Benefits The Starbucks Rewards program will now offer a host of customer benefits with each level unlocking an expanded portfolio of rewards and experiences as they deepen their engagement with the brand: Faster Earning: Members will earn 1 Star for every Rs.10 spent, with Gold Members earning 1.2X Stars and Reserve Members earning 1.3X Stars on every Rs. 10 spent More Accessible Rewards: Lower redemption thresholds make it easier for members to unlock rewards and enjoy benefits sooner, bringing them closer to the experiences and rewards they value Benefits at Every Level: Members can enjoy a range of benefits including personalized offers, birthday rewards, milestone celebrations, Double Stars Days and member-exclusive offers, ensuring every visit feels more rewarding Enhanced Member Experiences: As members progress through the program, they will also unlock additional benefits including Free Customized Mondays (every member can receive one free modifier on any handcrafted drink), accelerated Star earnings, exclusive merchandise, curated coffee experiences, special event access and other member-only privileges Adrit Mishra, COO, TATAStarbucks , said, At TATA Starbucks, we are constantly looking for ways to strengthen our connection with customers and create experiences that are meaningful, rewarding and personalized. The reimagined Starbucks Rewards program reflects our commitment to delivering greater value to our members by making rewards easier to earn and redeem, while introducing new benefits and experiences that celebrate loyalty. Whether someone is just beginning their Starbucks Rewards journey or is one of our most loyal members, the program has been designed to reward them at every stage. For more information and to start enjoying these rewards, visit the Starbucks India mobile application. About TATA Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 506 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior, Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi,Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,305 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, TATA Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
New Class 9 NCERT book defines judiciary as impartial institution
New Delhi: Months after a Class 8 NCERT textbook courted controversy for allegedly maligning the judiciary, a new Class 9 textbook describes it as an impartial and independent institution that safeguards citizens rights and upholds the spirit of the Constitution. However, the new Class 9 textbook was prepared before the controversy over the Class 8 Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
A LinkedIn post by Gurugram-based founder Rohan Dhawan has sparked widespread discussion after he revealed that he pays nearly Rs 30 lakh in annual rent despite having the option to live rent-free in his parents' Delhi home. Explaining his decision, Dhawan said the apartment gives him a shorter commute, a better daily routine, space to build his marriage with his wife, and the flexibility to host late-night business discussions.
Class 7-9 students to continue with existing language combo: CBSE
New Delhi: In a relief to lakhs of CBSE students currently studying in Classes 7 to 9 and who have opted for two foreign languages under the three-language policy, they will be allowed to continue with the same language combination till Class 10, officials said on Friday, June 26. The development comes over a month Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
As part of the Delhi High Courts annual roster reshuffle following the summer vacation, Justice Manoj Jain has been assigned to hear criminal matters concerning sitting and former Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) with effect from July 1, 2026. The designated MP/MLA criminal roster, which primarily deals with criminal proceedings [] The post Delhi High Court reshuffle: Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma moved to civil petitions; Justice Manoj Jain to handle special MP/MLA roster appeared first on India Legal .
Delhi vs Noida: Which city gives homebuyers more space for 1 crore budget?
For a 1 crore budget in 2026, Noida offers significantly more space and modern amenities compared to Delhi, where the same amount often buys a smaller apartment or older property. While Delhi boasts established infrastructure and heritage, Noida's rapid development, including new airport connectivity, presents strong future growth potential. The choice hinges on prioritizing space and growth versus an established national capital address.
Vande Mataram not just song, but mantra for reconstruction of India: Amit Shah
New Delhi, Jun 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said 'Vande Mataram' is not merely a patriotic song but a mantra for the reconstruction of India, as he paid tributes to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay on his birth anniversary while addressing a meeting on the country's anti-narcotics strategy. At the 10th apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD), Shah stated that June 26 is a significant day for the country's campaign against narcotics. He said it also marks the birth anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, who played a key role in awakening the nation's self-confidence during British rule. Bankim Babu composed 'Vande Mataram'. 'Vande Mataram' became a powerful symbol of the nation's cultural consciousness and patriotism. When the freedom struggle reached its peak, the main slogan of the fight against the British was 'Vande Mataram', Shah said. Recalling the sacrifices made by freedom fighters, he said many revolutionaries embraced the gallows with the chant of 'Vande Mataram'. 'Vande Mataram' is not just a slogan or a song for all of us Indians. 'Vande Mataram' is not merely a song that introduced the freedom movement, either. 'Vande Mataram' is a mantra for the reconstruction of India and also a means to re-establish Mother India at the highest position in the world, Shah said. The meeting brought together representatives of 44 central ministries and departments, state governments and drug law enforcement agencies in a hybrid mode to deliberate on strengthening the government's efforts to achieve a drug-free India. The discussions focused on tackling the growing menace of synthetic drugs, curbing darknet-enabled trafficking and expanding the reach of rehabilitation centres for drug users over the next three years.
Jamia drops five courses over poor response, no entrance for five others, including Sanskrit
Wimbledon 2026: Top Contenders for the Singles Titles Revealed
New Delhi, June 26: The Wimbledon tournament is set to begin on June 29. Every male and female player participating dreams of clinching the title, as Wimbledon is one of the four prestigious Grand Slams. Winning this title can significantly elevate a tennis players career. Lets take a look at the top five contenders for ... Read more Wimbledon 2026: Top Contenders for the Singles Titles Revealed
BPTP Limited has been recognized as one of North India's leading real estate developers, securing Rank 3 in the ET NOW Real Estate North Survey 2026, announced at the ET NOW Realty Conclave & Awards 2026. BPTP ranks among North India's Top 3 Developers at the ET NOW Realty Conclave & Awards 2026 BPTP 's strong market presence, customer trust, and consistent contribution to the growth of the real estate sector across Delhi-NCR. The ET NOW Real Estate North Survey is a comprehensive industry assessment that evaluates developers through an objective research-led framework, combining factual business data, consumer perception studies, and independent evaluation by a third-party survey agency. Over the years, BPTP has built a diversified portfolio spanning residential, commercial, plotted, and integrated township developments. With a legacy of developing landmark projects across Delhi-NCR, the company has consistently focused on quality construction, customer-centricity, and creating sustainable urban communities. BPTP Limited , said," Being ranked among the top real estate developers in North India is a matter of immense pride for all of us at BPTP. This recognition reflects the trust our customers, investors, and stakeholders have placed in the brand over the years. As the region continues to evolve into one of India's most dynamic real estate markets, we remain committed to developing high-quality residential and commercial developments that create long-term value and enrich the lives of our customers . The recognition comes at a time when BPTP continues to strengthen its presence across key micro-markets in NCR through a portfolio of premium residential and commercial developments, including its recently launched premium residential projects, Downtown 66 in Sector 66, Gurugram and Skynest in Greater Faridabad. This achievement further reinforces BPTP's position as a trusted and respected real estate brand and reflects its continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. About BPTP Limited BPTP Limited is a real estate developer with over two decades of operations in the Delhi-NCR region. The company has delivered numerous residential and commercial projects across multiple locations in NCR, including group housing, plotted developments, commercial developments, and integrated townships.
Delhi University's Kamala Nehru College recognised as 'Zero-Waste Institution'
DU UG Admissions 2026: CSAS Portal registration likely to open on June 27; here's how to apply
Delhi University's undergraduate admissions for the 2026-27 academic year are set to commence with the CSAS portal opening on June 27. Admissions will exclusively rely on CUET UG 2026 scores, offering over 71,000 seats across various programs. Students should prepare their documents and monitor the official portal for application steps, which involve registration, preference filling, and seat allotment rounds. The academic session begins July 21.
Controversy Erupts Over Ram Temple Donations: Resignations Spark Opposition Questions
New Delhi, June 26: Following the resignations of Champat Rai, the General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, and Trustee Anil Mishra, opposition leaders have raised serious questions about the central government and the trust. Sanjay Raut, a Rajya Sabha member from Shiv Sena (UBT), stated, What will Champat Rais resignation achieve? ... Read more Controversy Erupts Over Ram Temple Donations: Resignations Spark Opposition Questions
DERC eases electricity connection transfer rules for Delhi homebuyers
Under amended DERC regulations, discoms will use ownership data shared by sub-registrar offices to process name changes automatically within two billing cycles.
India Launches Operation Amistad to Aid Venezuela After Devastating Earthquake
New Delhi, June 26: In response to the devastating earthquake in northern Venezuela, India has initiated Operation Amistad as part of its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. This operation aims to provide immediate medical support to those affected by the disaster. A specialized medical team from the Indian Army has been dispatched to Venezuela. ... Read more India Launches Operation Amistad to Aid Venezuela After Devastating Earthquake
Azim Premji University Launches Realising Rights: A Handbook of Welfare in India
India has built one of the worlds largest welfare systems, covering a majority of its population through programmes focused on food security, health, education, nutrition, employment, and social protection. Welfare measures such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), MGNREGA, and social security transfers played a critical role in protecting vulnerable households during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delhi Event - Azim Premji University Launches Realising Rights A Handbook of Welfare in India To examine the strengths, gaps, and future of Indias welfare architecture, Azim Premji University has released Realising Rights: A Handbook of Welfare in India. Developed by the Centre for the Study of the Indian Economy (CSIE), the Handbook brings together 27 authors across 18 chapters and offers a rights-based analysis of Indias welfare policies and public systems. Key messages from the Handbook include: State governments account for nearly 90% of Indias social sector spending, while the Union governments share has declined from 23.6% in 2008-09 to 8.5% in 2024-25. Governments collectively spend about 7% of GDP and 21% of total public expenditure on welfare sectors and schemes covered in the volume. Public spending on education remains around 4% of GDP and health below 2% of GDP, both below policy targets. Rights-based interventions have significantly expanded welfare coverage: Anganwadi centres increased from 6 lakh to 14 lakh following Supreme Court orders. The National Food Security Act expanded subsidised foodgrain coverage from 36.3 crore to over 81 crore people. MGNREGA generated 200300 crore person-days of employment annually, with women accounting for over 55% of employment generated. The rapid expansion of cash transfer programmes is reshaping welfare delivery, while increasing digitisation is creating new challenges around exclusion and accountability. Key programmes continue to face gaps in coverage, funding, and implementation, including maternity benefits, nutrition programmes, pensions, and healthcare. Indu Prasad, President, Azim Premji University, said Indias Constitution embodies a commitment to dignity, opportunity, and justice for every citizen. We hope this Handbook contributes to informed public dialogue and strengthens collective efforts to build a more equitable and inclusive India, advancing the aspiration of a Viksit Bharat that leaves no one behind. Dipa Sinha, Centre for the Study of the Indian Economy, Azim Premji University, said, The Handbook provides a comprehensive view of Indias welfare landscape through an analysis of major rights-based interventions of the Union government. We hope it serves as a valuable resource for academics, journalists, practitioners, and students, while helping translate research into action. By bringing together evidence from across sectors, Realising Rights: A Handbook of Welfare in India contributes to informed debates on welfare policy, governance, and social justice, and underscores the importance of strengthening universal and accountable public services. azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/publications/2026/book/realising-rights . About Azim Premji University Azim Premji University, Bengaluru, was established under the Azim Premji University Act 2010 of the Government of Karnataka. Azim Premji University, Bhopal, was established under the provisions of Madhya Pradesh Niji Vishwa Vidyalaya (Sthapana Avam Sanchalan) Dwitiya Sanshodhan Adhiniyam, 2022. Azim Premji University in Ranchi has been established under the Azim Premji University Act, 2022, enacted by the Government of Jharkhand. Azim Premji Foundation, the sponsoring body, set up all three Universities as fully philanthropic entities, with a clear social purpose of contributing to the realisation of a just, equitable, humane, and sustainable society.
Goldman Sachs Raises Indias GDP Growth Forecast to 6.8% Amid Easing Middle East Tensions
New Delhi, June 26: Global investment bank Goldman Sachs has revised Indias GDP growth forecast for 2026, increasing it to 6.8% from the previous estimate of 6.5%. This adjustment is attributed to a decline in global crude oil prices and reduced supply chain challenges, following peace talks between the U.S. and Iran. The investment bank ... Read more Goldman Sachs Raises Indias GDP Growth Forecast to 6.8% Amid Easing Middle East Tensions
Apple hikes MacBook, iPad prices by 20-42 pc
New Delhi, Jun 26: Apple has increased the starting prices of MacBook and iPad models by 20-42 per cent compared to their launch prices across the globe, including India, mainly due to higher memory chip costs. The new price list on Apple India's website shows that the company has increased the price of the MacBook Pro built on the M5 series chip by about 20 per cent. The price of the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro chip has been increased to Rs 2,99,900 apiece from the launch price of Rs 2,49,900 a unit. There has been a sharp rise in the price of the iPad Air. The basic model in the 13-inch iPad Air has been increased by 41.22 per cent to Rs 1,19,900 apiece from Rs 84,900 a unit. Counterpoint Research Co-founder and VP for Research, Neil Shah, said Apple's price hikes for the MacBook Neo, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Pro Wi-Fi follow the biggest change in the cost structure of the consumer and enterprise PC and tablet market, being shaped by the rising semiconductor chip pricing from memory to processors. Apple, in a statement, said that the consumer electronics industry is facing an unprecedented challenge. The rapid expansion of AI data centres has created an extraordinary surge in demand for memory and storage. We have never seen a component price increase this much, this quickly. We have shielded our customers from these increases so far, but we have now reached a point where we need to begin raising prices on a number of products, including today's increases for iPad and Mac. We know this is not welcome news, and we are working tirelessly to find solutions, the statement said. Price increases for consumer electronics are already widespread across the industry, with many products rising by 40 per cent or more. Memory companies have been allocating an increasing share of their production to AI data centres, leaving the consumer electronics segment with constrained availability and rising costs. Memory suppliers are reporting margins at historic highs. Memory chip leader Micron reported 86 per cent gross margins, up from 15 per cent in just the past year. Apple, long regarded as the industry's benchmark for supply chain resilience, has begun passing higher component costs on to consumers. That is a strong signal that pricing pressures have reached a level that even the most sophisticated absorption strategies cannot fully offset, CyberMedia Research, VP - Industry Research Group, Prabhu Ram said. Shah said Apple held the price increase for at least two quarters, protecting its user base from any price inflation, but it has reached a point beyond which Apple could absorb the cost increase. The unprecedented AI infrastructure growth has changed the semiconductor supply chain, driving insatiable demand for DRAM, NAND and Compute chips, not matching up to the capacity to produce and supply to other markets as AI infrastructure is prioritised. We believe the situation is not going to be better at least for the next two years, he said. Shah said that the timing of the price increase is not ideal as Apple looks to push its revamped on-device Apple Intelligence later this year across devices demanding considerable memory and compute capabilities uplift. This could likely affect overall demand for Apple products in the coming months. However, this could also be a positive for Apple, especially for customers who are due for an update and want to buy a new Mac or iPad and can't delay the purchase, they will not compromise by paying extra for a lower configuration, instead buy a more premium version of Apple's portfolio. So, the market could shift towards the premium market as users look to get maximum value for the dollar spent, Shah said.
The South Buys Newer, the North Holds Longer: India Is Three Used Car Markets in One
Cars24 and Team BHP's Gears of Growth 2025 report finds that preference for car age has significant regional differences. Southern markets are skewed towards 2019 and newer vehicles, western markets churn steadily across 2017 to 2021 model years, and North and Central India hold on to cars the longest. National statistics flatten India's used car market into one number. The Cars24 and Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 report, drawn from over 33 million users, pulls it apart and finds three distinct markets running on three different clocks. The variable that separates them is not the models people buy, but how old the car is when it changes hands. Southern markets show a higher concentration of vehicles from 2019 and later. Western India trades across a balanced spread of 2017 to 2021 model years. North and Central India carry a greater share of 2017 to 2019 and pre-2017 vehicles. The report's conclusion is direct: regional economics and buyer preferences shape inventory age profiles more than most buyers realise. Three regions, three ownership clocks The regional split in the Gears of Growth 2025 report reads as follows: Source: Cars24 x Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 Report In the South, the report points to faster upgrade cycles and higher car adoption, which keeps inventory young. For a buyer in Bengaluru, Chennai or Hyderabad, the practical effect is a shelf weighted toward 2019 and newer cars. A three to four year old vehicle is mainstream stock here, not a premium find. The same report finds Tamil Nadu's share of national demand rising from 6.1 percent to 6.5 percent and Karnataka's from 10 percent to 10.4 percent in 2025, a steady climb consistent with markets where cars circulate quickly. Western India behaves like the market's metronome. Maharashtra, the country's single largest used car market at 15.1 percent of national demand, and Gujarat, which posted the largest state-level gain of 2025 at 8.7 to 10.2 percent, both trade across an even spread of 2017 to 2021 model years. In Mumbai, Pune or Ahmedabad a buyer finds roughly equal odds of a five-year-old or a two-year-old car. The report calls this stable ownership churn: cars enter and exit ownership at a consistent rhythm rather than in waves. North and Central India run the longest clock. The region's higher share of 2017 to 2019 and pre-2017 vehicles points to owners who keep cars well past the national norm, and to what the report describes as value-driven resale behaviour. A buyer in Delhi NCR or across Uttar Pradesh, which alone holds 11.7 percent of national demand, will see more six to eight year old cars on the shelf than a southern buyer does. A car in this market is held, maintained, and sold late in its life, often to a buyer who intends to do exactly the same. Why the clocks run at different speeds The report attributes the divergence to regional economics and buyer preferences rather than any single cause. Southern states lead the country in adopting newer automotive technology: Karnataka and Maharashtra together account for 68 percent of all used EV purchases nationally. Markets comfortable buying the newest category of vehicle are, predictably, also the markets where recent model years dominate. Longer holding in the North reads as strategy, not lag. An owner who runs a car for eight or nine years extracts the maximum use from a depreciating asset before selling it into a deep pool of value-focused buyers. The report's non-metro data reinforces this: demand there concentrates in low-maintenance, affordable models such as the Swift Dzire, Wagon R and Alto, exactly the cars built to be owned long and sold late. What this means for used car buyers and sellers in Chennai will encounter a younger inventory mix, weighted to 2019 and newer, than someone shopping in Lucknow, where six to eight-year-old cars are common, even on the same platform on the same day. For sellers, the same car meets different demands depending on where it is sold. A 2020 vehicle is mid-life stock in a southern market that skews to 2019 and newer, and comparatively fresh inventory in a northern market dominated by older cars. Timing a sale against the regional clock, not the national average, is the more informed move. All figures in this article are sourced from the Cars24 Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 report, based on Cars24 internal transaction data comprising over 33 million users as of December 2025.
DTU and Esri India Join Hands to Advance GeoAI Education and Research
Esri India , the market leader in Geographic Information System (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping solutions in India, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Delhi Technological University (DTU) to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Geospatial Technologies with a focused thrust on GeoAI. The partnership marks a significant step in bridging the gap between industrys expectations for geospatial skills and academic programs, equipping the next generation of engineers, researchers and data scientists with cutting-edge GIS and GeoAI capabilities through world leading Esri technology. DTU and Esri India Join Hands to Advance GeoAI Education and Research Under the MoU, Esri India will support DTUs Department of Geospatial Science & Technology in establishing the CoE with globally renowned ArcGIS software. The Center will have access to learning resources and geospatial content through ArcGIS Living Atlas. The company aims to enable applied GeoAI solutions, conduct Faculty Development Programs (FDPs), and facilitate merit-based internships for the students. DTU, one of Indias premier technological universities, has a strong foundation in Geospatial Sciences and Technologies, Computer Science, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Civil Engineering and Space Applications etc. With the collaboration with Esri India, DTU aims to develop new curricula, particularly for its new upcoming UG, PG and Executive programs and enhancement of existing courses using the Indo ArcGIS platform. Agendra Kumar, Managing Director, Esri India, said, Geospatial intelligence and AI are converging rapidly, and India needs a skilled workforce that can harness this power for real-world impact. Our partnership with DTU through this Centre of Excellence reflects Esri Indias commitment to embedding GeoAI thinking into the mainstream academia. We look forward to working alongside DTUs faculty and students to build capabilities that will shape how India plans its cities, manages its resources, and prepares for the future. Prof. Prateek Sharma, Vice Chancellor, DTU expressed his happiness on the signing of an MoU between DTU and Esri India. He expressed hope that this MoU will turn out to be a milestone in the saga of industry-academia collaboration and will get emulated by many others in the coming years. He laid the vision for the Department of Geospatial Science and Technology (DGST) at DTU. He mentioned that DGST, DTU aspires to be a global leader in Geospatial Education, Research and Consultancy. DGST intends to launch not only executive Master's Programs in Geoinformatics but also UG programs in Geospatial Science and Geoinformatics. DTU believes that the Geospatial segment not only needs to develop a technology vertical but also focus on Geospatial and Space Sciences. DTU aims to be a leader in the county in establishing Geospatial Science and Technology as an independent discipline. With Esris ArcGIS at the heart of the CoE, DTU students and researchers will gain hands-on exposure to technologies that are new and upcoming, but also to the technologies which are actively being used by government agencies, urban planners, defence establishments and environmental organizations across the country.
71,000 Seats, Over 70 Colleges: Delhi University Undergraduate Admissions To Begin Soon
Delhi University UG Admissions 2026: Admissions to undergraduate programmes will be based on candidates' scores in the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026.
India Launches Mango Promotion Program in Iceland
New Delhi, June 26: India has organized its first-ever mango promotion program in the European country of Iceland. The initiative showcased the rich diversity of Indian mangoes and their vast export potential, as announced by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Friday. According to a statement from the ministry, the Indian Embassy in Reykjavik, ... Read more India Launches Mango Promotion Program in Iceland
Congress Demands Immediate Dissolution of Ram Temple Trust Amid Allegations of Mismanagement
New Delhi, June 26: Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Shukla held a press conference at the All India Congress Committee headquarters on Friday. He targeted the NDA government regarding the Ram Temple donation scandal, demanding the dissolution of the Ram Temple Trust and the arrest of the main accused. Shukla raised serious ... Read more Congress Demands Immediate Dissolution of Ram Temple Trust Amid Allegations of Mismanagement
Prominent figures like Colin Gonsalves and Gurnam Singh Chadooni are joining students protesting examination irregularities at Jantar Mantar. Sonam Wangchuk threatens a hunger strike if the government doesn't address demands by June 27. Protesters are also calling for the Education Minister's resignation, citing alleged paper leaks and demanding accountability for lapses in the examination system.
James Hopes Steps Down As Sydney Sixers Head Coach To Join Brisbane Heat And Queensland Bulls
Indian Premier League: Former Australia all-rounder James Hopes has stepped down as Sydney Sixers head coach less than two months after taking up the role, to accept a role with the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls on a three-year deal, the BBL clubs said on Friday. Hopes will take on the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls coaching roles next month after agreeing to return to Brisbane following coaching stints with the Hobart Hurricanes and Tasmanian Tigers and overseas in the Indian Premier League with Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. While the Club is disappointed by this decision, we understand the significance of this opportunity for him and his family, and we wish him all the very best, Sydney Sixers said in a statement. The Brisbane Heat will welcome home a prodigal son with former captain James Hopes appointed as head coach for the next three years, Heat confirmed James appointment. Currently coaching with the Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket (MLC), Hopes said he was grateful to be able to return to his home State and thanked Cricket NSW for enabling him to exit his contract with the Sydney Sixers. I wrestled with this decision as I was, and still am, very appreciative of being offered the Sixers role earlier this year. However, to have the opportunity to take on the head coaching program with Queensland and live in Brisbane again was too good to miss, Hopes said. I have been in and out of Queensland Cricket since I was 14 and along the way was privileged to play for the Bulls and the Heat. So, to be a part of that again is something very special to me and my family. Im very eager to join with the Queensland and Brisbane coaching staff and players when I am back and get to work preparing for the season, he added. The 47-year-old enjoyed a distinguished international playing career, representing Australia in 84 ODIs, with the bulk of those appearances coming between the 2007 and 2011 World Cups. He also played in the IPL with Kings XI Punjab and Delhi Daredevils and served in a coaching capacity with the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in recent seasons. Hopes led Queensland to back-to-back Sheffield Shield finals in 2012 and 2013, winning the title in 2012, as well as back-to-back Ryobi Cup one-day trophies in 2012-13 and 2013-14. Hopes led Queensland to back-to-back Sheffield Shield finals in 2012 and 2013, winning the title in 2012, as well as back-to-back Ryobi Cup one-day trophies in 2012-13 and 2013-14. Hopes led Queensland to back-to-back Sheffield Shield finals in 2012 and 2013, winning the title in 2012, as well as back-to-back Ryobi Cup one-day trophies in 2012-13 and 2013-14. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His recent roles as a specialist skills and assistant coach saw him feature in the BBL 14 Hobart Hurricanes championship campaign. Article Source: IANS
Opposition Questions FIR in Ram Temple Donation Case, Claims Efforts to Protect Big Fish
New Delhi, June 26: The opposition parties have raised concerns regarding the FIR filed against eight individuals in the Ram Temple donation case. They have made serious allegations against the SIT, the government, and the trust, claiming that efforts are being made to shield influential figures involved in the matter. Congress MP Imran Masood stated, ... Read more Opposition Questions FIR in Ram Temple Donation Case, Claims Efforts to Protect Big Fish
BJP National President Nitin Naveen to Engage with EU Mission Heads in Key Dialogue
New Delhi, June 26: European Union (EU) mission heads will participate in a significant dialogue with the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday. This meeting is part of the BJPs ongoing Know the BJP initiative, featuring BJP National President Nitin Naveen. Diplomats from various EU member countries will be present to closely ... Read more BJP National President Nitin Naveen to Engage with EU Mission Heads in Key Dialogue
Opinion: Opinion | Iran Peace Process Needs A New Architect, And India Shouldn't Waste Its Chance
For Delhi, this might be the time to cash in on its multi-alignment framework, emerging as a trusted partner to all sides, bring the focus back to terrorism and get a place at the high table.
Nine Climate-Tech Start-ups to Deploy Urban sustainability Solutions Across 10 Indian cities
The initiative is led by Social Alpha and the University of Toronto India Foundation through the Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program. The selected start-ups to address urban sustainability challenges in construction, waste management, water, sanitation and renewable energy. To receive grants of up to INR 35 lakh to support the deployment Technology deployments will be undertaken in partnership with 11 private and six public organisations, including industry partners, educational institutions, healthcare providers and urban local bodies. Nine climate-tech start-ups are set to deploy solutions addressing critical urban sustainability challenges across 10 Indian cities, including Chennai, Kozhikode, Bengaluru, Khammam, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Bhavnagar and New Delhi. Under the Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program, led by Social Alpha and the University of Toronto India Foundation (UTIF), these start-ups will deploy solutions that support low-carbon transitions across these cities. The selected start-ups will receive grants of up to INR 35 lakh to support the deployment of their innovations and help de-risk their adoption in urban environments. The selected start-ups will deploy innovations across sectors critical to urban sustainability, including low-carbon construction materials, renewable energy, waste management, water efficiency and sanitation. The nine startups include: Carbon Strong , whose proprietary fly ash-based binder replaces 35-40% of cement in concrete, cutting embodied carbon and costs with no process change for producers. Satiq Concrete Manufacturer , which develops low-temperature, waste-derived binders and engineered composites that deliver lightweight, high-strength, thermally efficient concrete with significantly lower emissions. Go Do Good Studio , which creates home-compostable food packaging using proprietary plant-based coatings and inks that eliminate plastic from urban food delivery and catering. Vivifica Sustainable Solutions , whose patented WENERATOR integrates process optimisation, IoT-based monitoring and multi-stage digestion to convert mixed organic waste into clean biogas at source, designed for institutional kitchens and canteens. Apeiro Energy , which develops vertical small wind turbines optimised for low wind speeds, paired with smart controllers, monitoring systems, energy management systems and an AI micrositing tool for wind-solar hybrid microgrids. Trinano Technologies , whose patented nano coating for solar panels increases energy output by 4%+, extends panel life by 2-3 years, and cuts cleaning requirements by 50%, addressing inefficiencies that reduce energy production. Smart Terra , whose AI-driven SaaS creates a digital twin of water networks to detect leaky pipes and faulty meters and predict operational inefficiencies in water networks with under 100-metre precision, and is agnostic to hardware, sensor or database technologies. Vayujal Technologies , whose atmospheric water generators can produce 43 to 3,000 litres of drinking water per day from air for homes, offices, institutions, industries and communities, in an energy-efficient manner, with zero water wastage and adherence to BIS 10500. Xpredict Labs , whose HiDrEC is a decentralised, packaged wastewater treatment system that runs on electrochemical principles with no external chemicals, requiring lower land footprints while producing reusable CPCB-compliant water. The technologies will be deployed through 17 partnerships spanning 11 private and six public organisations across 10 Indian cities, with expected outcomes spanning emissions reduction, waste diversion, production of energy from clean sources, energy efficiency, reduction in non revenue water losses, reduced dependence on groundwater, and increased access to clean drinking water. The pilot partners include ready-mix concrete manufacturers (RMCs) such as Veera Concrete and PCS Industries, schools under the Government of Maharashtra and Government of Tamil Nadu, research institutions such as the Central Road Research Institute, hospitals including Kilpauk Medical College Hospital and Meitra Hospital, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Contendre Solar and Boson Whitewater, industries such as Ashapura Saltworks and Yashpoly, real estate companies such as DRA Homes, and urban local bodies and utilities including the Khammam Municipal Corporation and Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board. On the Program, Ganesh Neelam, Co-founder, Social Alpha , said, " By 2036, India's towns and cities are expected to be home to 600 million people. As urban populations grow, pressure on the systems that support everyday life will intensify. Cities will need to rethink how they design and construct infrastructure, manage resources, deliver essential services and build resilience to climate risks. Addressing these challenges requires solutions that are practical, reliable and deployable at scale. Our aim is to support a growing pipeline of innovators addressing urban sustainability challenges and support the deployment of these solutions across Indian cities ." Gauravi Lobo, Director, U of T India Foundatio n, said, " What this program has surfaced is that the constraint isn't the technology. It's the distance between a working solution and a public system ready to absorb it. The nine start-ups in this cohort are being tested against that distance, with pilots designed around what urban local bodies and civic institutions actually need to make adoption decisions. For UTIF, that is where the research question lives - and what we carry back to the University of Toronto is not just the outcome, but the institutional logic of how Indian cities are learning to integrate innovation at scale ." The Innovations in Sustainable Urban Transition Program was first launched in 2024. Its first cohort of eleven start-ups deployed innovations in 11 cities addressing air quality, sanitation, waste management, clean mobility and low-carbon construction materials. The Program demonstrated that deep-tech innovations can be contextualised, de-risked and deployed through structured public and private partnerships, generating measurable outcomes in emissions avoidance (105.99 tonnes of CO2e), waste diversion (407.15 tonnes), water savings (16,896 kilolitres) and improved air quality (between 20% - 94% reduction in PM 2.5 and 10 across four locations). urban@socialalpha.org . About Social Alpha Social Alpha is an operating philanthropy dedicated to taking breakthrough science from lab to the last mile. Social Alpha's full-stack, multistage innovation and venture development platform is designed to develop, de-risk and deploy frontier innovations to advance affordable healthcare, resilient livelihoods and climate action, prioritising the most critical challenges for people and planet. Founded in 2016, Social Alpha has supported over 450 innovations focused on socio-economic and environmental impact. For more information, please visit www.socialalpha.org . About University of Toronto India Foundation The University of Toronto India Foundation, based in Mumbai, serves as a dynamic bridge connecting the University of Toronto with India's academic institutions, innovators, non-profits, social enterprises and governments. Bringing together research, innovation and impact, UTIF works to address sustainability challenges faced by Indian cities through co-created solutions. www.uoftindiafoundation.com .
Delhi Resident Misses City Chaos After Moving To Gurugram: 'Feels Less Connected Here'
Life in Delhi offers community interaction unlike the more isolated lifestyle in Gurugram, says resident.
Delhi Traffic Police has announced significant road closures and diversions on Friday, June 26, for Muharram. Major routes including MB Road, Pankha Road, and GTK Road will see restrictions. Commuters in Central Delhi and the New Delhi area should anticipate disruptions from noon to 10 PM. Authorities urge citizens to avoid affected stretches, utilize alternative routes, and plan journeys ahead to navigate the city smoothly.
Govt says it restored commercial LPG supply to pre-crisis levels
New Delhi: The government on Thursday, June 25, restored liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies to commercial consumers such as hotels, restaurants and other businesses to pre-crisis levels, and lifted sector-specific restrictions imposed during the recent West Asia conflict, in a sign that energy supply concerns are easing as global markets stabilise. The Petroleum Ministry, in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Leaders Pay Tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain on Muharram
New Delhi, June 26: Leaders, including Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, paid homage to Hazrat Imam Hussains martyrdom on this solemn occasion of Muharram. Vice President Radhakrishnan shared on the social media platform X, stating, On the occasion of Muharram, we remember the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). Muharram reminds us of values such as ... Read more Leaders Pay Tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain on Muharram
ED arrests prime accused Harpreet Talwar in 3000 kg Mundra port Heroin seizure case
Enforcement Directorate has arrested Harpreet Singh Talwar, a key figure in a money laundering probe linked to a massive heroin seizure at Mundra Port in 2021. Searches at six Delhi locations led to his apprehension. Talwar is accused of facilitating drug smuggling for an international syndicate, receiving goods and cash for his services. Investigations revealed proceeds were funneled to fund terrorist activities and invested in Delhi nightclubs.
Amazon CEO Jassy Unveils $48B India Plan
Amazon plans to invest a total of $48 billion in India between 2026 and 2030, including major investments in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud infrastructure, e-commerce, exports, and job creation. The announcement was made June 25, following a meeting between Amazon President and CEO Andy Jassy and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Prime Minister's Office in New Delhi.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for Saturday across several Indian states, including the Northeast and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Thunderstorms with gusty winds are expected in many regions. Meanwhile, severe heatwave conditions will persist in parts of east Uttar Pradesh. The monsoon is also set to advance further in the coming days.
Fortis Hospital Under Scrutiny Following Inquiry Into Patient Death In Delhi
Delhi orders action against Fortis Hospital after inquiry finds treatment delays and safety lapses
June 27 Panchang: Auspicious Shani Pradosh Vrat and Timing for Important Tasks
New Delhi, June 26: The Panchang holds significant importance in Hinduism. Before undertaking any auspicious task, journey, investment, or ritual, consulting the Panchang is essential. This traditional Hindu calendar is based on the positions of the sun, moon, and other celestial bodies. On June 27, 2026 (Saturday), the date corresponds to the Tritiya of the ... Read more June 27 Panchang: Auspicious Shani Pradosh Vrat and Timing for Important Tasks
Gold and silver prices today, 26 June: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
India and South Africa Heat Up Semi-Final Race in Womens T20 World Cup
New Delhi, June 26: The semi-final race in Group A of the Womens T20 World Cup 2026 has become thrilling. On Thursday, the Indian team defeated Bangladesh by 5 wickets, while South Africa crushed the Netherlands by 88 runs. Both teams remain in contention for a spot in the final four. After four matches, India ... Read more India and South Africa Heat Up Semi-Final Race in Womens T20 World Cup
Jamia drops 5 courses, offers direct admission to 5 low-enrolment programmes
Jamia Millia Islamia is discontinuing five self-financed academic programmes for the 2026-27 session due to insufficient applications. These include Hotel Management and Translation. To sustain other low-enrolment courses like Sanskrit and Portuguese, the university will waive entrance exams and offer direct admissions. This move aims to optimize faculty resources while preserving ancient language studies.
Woman Commits Suicide Due to Dowry Harassment; Husband and Father-in-Law Arrested
New Delhi, June 26: The police in Khayala, New Delhi, have arrested a womans husband and father-in-law in connection with her death, which is believed to be a result of dowry harassment. According to police officials, the initial investigation revealed that the woman had been subjected to continuous mental and physical abuse since her marriage, ... Read more Woman Commits Suicide Due to Dowry Harassment; Husband and Father-in-Law Arrested
Notorious Gangster Shabbir Ali Arrested by Delhi Police
New Delhi, June 26: The Special Cell of Delhi Police has apprehended notorious gangster Shabbir Ali, also known as Shabbir Chaudhary. For the past year, the Special Cell has been on the lookout for Shabbir, who was wanted in a MCOCA case. Nine members of this organized crime gang have already been arrested in connection ... Read more Notorious Gangster Shabbir Ali Arrested by Delhi Police
Weather Today LIVE: Monsoon Nears Delhi-NCR, Rain Likely Over Next Few Days
Weather Updates Today: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds and cloudy skies across Delhi-NCR and several parts of North India over the coming week.
Smart Cooking: The Key to Better Health
New Delhi, June 26: In todays fast-paced world, prioritizing health is essential for everyone. However, it is crucial to understand that good health relies not only on nutritious food but also on how we prepare it. By adopting smart cooking habits, we can make our meals more nutritious, delicious, and beneficial for our health. Small ... Read more Smart Cooking: The Key to Better Health
Kitchen fire leaves 2 brothers injured in Delhi's Ajmeri Gate
A kitchen fire erupted late at night in Delhi's Ajmeri Gate, resulting in serious burn injuries for two brothers, aged 14 and 18. Thanks to the rapid response of firefighters and local residents, the fire was kept to a minimum in the kitchen area. Both siblings are receiving medical care in the hospital, while authorities look into the cause of the unfortunate incident.
35 nations, including India, sign statement on AI opportunity at Pax Silica Summit in US
Washington, June 26: Thirty-five nations, including India, have signed on to the US initiative to build trusted and resilient supply chains to power artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. At the second Pax Silica Summit held in Washington on Thursday, 35 nations signed the Joint Statement on AI Opportunity, aligning behind a pro-growth, pro-innovation regulatory approach for the AI era, said Jacob Helberg, US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs. A commitment to trusted supply chains, to mobilising the private sector, and the infrastructure that will power the next century, he said. Argentina, Germany, the Netherlands, Chile, Costa Rica, Greece, Kazakhstan, Panama, and the European Union joined the Pax Silica initiative on the sidelines of the Summit. India is represented at the Summit by S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Nagraj Naidu, Additional Secretary (Americas) in the Ministry of External Affairs, and representatives of the Indian industry. The Indian delegation engaged with other governments and industry on advancing collaboration in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and resilient technology supply chains. The future of AI will not be determined by who regulates first. It will be determined by who builds first and builds the most capacity. More energy. More compute. More chips. More talent. More builders. A future where we accelerate innovation and private investment is welcomed, Helberg said. Together, we aspire to build an AI future that serves our peoples, strengthens our economies, and empowers entrepreneurship, innovation, and the rule of law, he said. The senior US official said that the Pax Silica Initiative took off in December last year, with a handful of countries coming together. India joined the initiative in February on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta directs district administration to inspect Shalimar Bagh's Fortis Hospital
Fortis Hospital inspection: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered an immediate inspection of Shalimar Bagh's Fortis Hospital following a complaint. Officials found discrepancies, and the government vows strict action against any confirmed irregularities, emphasizing patient rights.
Skiers Arif Khan, Stanzin Lundup to be first Indian recipients of IOCs USD 10k grant for Olympians
Skiers Arif Mohammad Khan and Stanzin Lundup will be the first Indian beneficiaries of the International Olympic Committees USD 10,000 grant for Olympians as they had represented the country at this years Milano-Cortina Winter Games, which would be the starting point for the programmes roll-out. The grant marks a major shift from over a century old IOC principle of not handing out financial benefits to athletes due to the concept of amateurism enshrined in the Olympic movement. It is a part of IOCs Fit for the Future strategic framework to find new and complementary ways to provide support to athletes, who qualify for the Games and steer clear of any doping offences. IOC President Kirsty Coventry has refused to call it prize money, insisting that it is a support mechanism. The payouts will begin by the end of this year after examining applications through a soon-to-be-launched mechanism. The 36-year-old Arif had produced Indias best-ever finish in mens slalom by ending 39th in Milano-Cortina. It was 10 notches higher than Indias previous best result in the event, set by Kishore Ratna Rai at the 1988 Games in Calgary. This grant is a recognition of what an athlete goes through while preparing for the Olympics. It will give them motivation and yes USD 10,000 (Rs 9.43 lakh) is a decent sum which an athlete can use to his benefit, the two-time South Asian Winter Games gold-medallist told PTI over a phone call. In fact, it is not even about the money, it is about the care. IOC is showing athletes that it cares for their journey, which is very heartening. This is a grant for the hard work of an Olympic cycle. They are recognising the effort that goes into making an Olympian. It is a huge moment for athletes, added the skier from Jammu and Kashmirs Gulmarg. The 28-year-old Lundups debut Winter Games experience was, however, not particularly memorable. He finished 104th in the mens 10km freestyle cross-country skiing event. This was after a higher-ranked Manjeet Kumar had dragged his selection by IOA to the Delhi High Court, which ruled that the process was indeed manifestly arbitrary and unfair. However, after the IOA expressed its inability to make any change to the team composition as the deadline to submit names was long over, the Sports Ministry, taking note of the technical issues involved, eventually approved Lundups participation. The Army man from Ladakh ended up being the countrys flag-bearer in the Games closing ceremony after Arif got the honour in the opening ceremony. Chair of the IOC Athletes Commission, basketball great Pau Gasol said an application process for athletes is being worked out. This grant will be available to every Olympian. Not just medal winners. Not just athletes from certain countries. Every Olympian. Because, while every athletes journey is different, every Olympian has made sacrifices to reach the Olympic stage, Gasol said while announcing the fund which has been capped at USD 140 million per Olympics. This is not prize money. This is about recognising the journey and the commitment it takes to become an Olympian, he had further stated echoing Coventry.
Senior IPS officer Mahesh Dixit appointed IB chief
New Delhi: Senior IPS officer Mahesh Dixit was on Thursday, June 25, appointed as the new chief of the Intelligence Bureau, succeeding Tapan Kumar Deka. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared Dixits appointment. He will have a two-year tenure. Dixit, a 1993-batch Indian Police Service officer from Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SKUAST-K ranks 4th in IIRF University Rankings 2026
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has been awarded 4th rank nationally (Agriculture & Horticulture University category) in the International Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) University Rankings 2026, reinforcing its growing stature as one of Indias leading institutions in agricultural education and research. Ranked just behind three of the countrys most prestigious agricultural universities, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi; Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, SKUAST-Ks achievement reflects its remarkable rise as a leading centre of excellence in agricultural education, research, innovation, and rural transformation. The recognition places SKUAST-K among the countrys top agricultural universities and reflects its expanding academic, research, and innovation footprint. The ranking is based on IIRFs comprehensive evaluation of over 2,500 institutions nationwide, using key performance indicators such as academic reputation, student diversity, research outcomes, innovation, infrastructure, community engagement, and international outlook. SKUAST-K registered a strong performance across multiple ranking indicators, including academic excellence, research, innovation, inclusivity, community engagement, infrastructure, and global outreach. The university currently offers 14 undergraduate programs, the highest among state agricultural universities in the country, and has nearly 30 percent of its students from outside Jammu and Kashmir. In research and innovation, SKUAST-Ks IPR tally stands at 123 IPRs, including 117 in the last four years, holds an H-index of 115, and has over 200 extramural research projects in operation. The university has also strengthened its profile through large-scale community engagement and development initiatives, such as the Student Rural Exploration Program, which covers 400 villages, involves about 4,000 students, and is expanding its national and international collaborations with reputable institutions and industries. Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, said the achievement reflects the sustained efforts of the universitys faculty, scientists, students, and staff. He said SKUAST-K remains committed to strengthening research, promoting innovation, and supporting farming communities through education, community engagement, and technology transfer. Prof. Ganai said the university has repositioned its strategic focus from local to national in 2022 and from national to global in 2026, with the aim of emerging as a globally reputed institution in transdisciplinary sciences. The achievement further strengthens SKUAST-Ks position as a center of excellence in agricultural sciences, innovation, and rural transformation.
Kamakhya Temple Reopens After Ambubachi Mela, Millions of Devotees Expected
New Delhi, June 26: The renowned Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, will reopen for devotees on Friday following the conclusion of the annual Ambubachi Mela. The temple was closed for three days to observe traditional religious practices associated with the goddess Kamakhyas annual menstrual cycle. The temple doors were shut on June 22 at 9:08:42 ... Read more Kamakhya Temple Reopens After Ambubachi Mela, Millions of Devotees Expected
Watch: Abhijeet Dipke claims BJP workers assaulted reporters in front of Delhi Police
Delhi rape-murder horror: Cabbie waited 45 mins for asleep 10-year-old to separate from mother
A cabbie accused of rape and murder stalked his young victim for nearly an hour before abducting her from a south Delhi street. Police are awaiting forensic reports from hair strands found in the cab and at the dumping site, along with a potency test on the accused. The accused's cab ID has been blocked as investigators delve into his background and a recent road accident.
Ecuador Stuns Germany with 2-1 Victory in FIFA World Cup 2026
New Delhi, June 26: In a shocking turn of events at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ecuador triumphed over four-time champions Germany with a score of 2-1 in a Group E match held at Philadelphia Stadium. This victory secured Ecuador a spot in the knockout stage. From the outset, both teams displayed aggressive play. Germany ... Read more Ecuador Stuns Germany with 2-1 Victory in FIFA World Cup 2026
Mian Altaf pushes for fast-track execution of Pir Ki Gali, Sadna tunnel projects
Member of Parliament from Anantnag-Rajouri, Mian Altaf Ahmad, on Thursday met Director General of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Lt Gen Harpal Singh, in New Delhi and raised several key road connectivity projects in Jammu and Kashmir, urging their early execution to improve connectivity, safety, trade and tourism. According to a statement, the MP pressed for expediting the proposed Pir Ki Gali Tunnel on the Mughal Road and the long-pending Sadna Tunnel, urging the BRO to prioritise the tendering process so that construction work on both strategic projects can commence at the earliest. Mian Altaf said the Pir Ki Gali Tunnel would significantly reduce travel distance and provide a safer, all-weather alternative by bypassing the landslide-prone stretches of the Mughal Road. Once completed, the tunnel will ensure reliable year-round connectivity and further strengthen the strategic importance of the historic Mughal Road linking the Kashmir Valley with the Pir Panjal region, he said. Highlighting the importance of the Sadna Tunnel, the MP said the project would bypass the snowbound Sadna Pass, which frequently remains inaccessible during winter due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather. Like the Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, the Sadna Tunnel is vital for improving accessibility and strengthening overall connectivity in the region, he said. The MP also sought the upgradation and maintenance of the remaining stretches of the Jammu-Poonch National Highway, saying commuters continue to face difficulties on portions of the road that are yet to be improved. While substantial progress has been made by the BRO on the highway, some stretches still require urgent upgradation and maintenance to ensure smooth and safe travel, he said. Mian Altaf also raised the issue of compensation for families in Manjakote whose houses and properties were damaged by landslides allegedly triggered during the highway expansion works. During the meeting, Lt Gen Harpal Singh briefed the MP on the status of various strategic infrastructure projects being executed by the BRO. According to the statement, the DG BRO said both the Pir Ki Gali and Sadna tunnel projects are under active consideration and assured that the process would be fast-tracked to facilitate the commencement of construction. On the Jammu-Poonch National Highway, the DG BRO directed the concerned officials in Jammu to complete the remaining upgradation and maintenance works within the next month. He also assured the MP that the issue of compensation for the landslide-affected families in Manjakote would be taken up after the Revenue Department submits its assessment report.
Cte dIvoire Secures Historic Knockout Stage Spot in FIFA World Cup 2026
New Delhi, June 26: In a remarkable display, Cte dIvoire triumphed over Curaao with a score of 2-0 in the Group E match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This victory marks the first time Cte dIvoire has advanced to the knockout stage in World Cup history. From the outset, Cte dIvoire dominated the match, ... Read more Cte dIvoire Secures Historic Knockout Stage Spot in FIFA World Cup 2026
Bank holiday today: Banks are closed across cities in India today on account of Muharram. In addition to the common national and gazetted holidays, banks in India could have local holidays and festivals off, as required.
Parimal Nathwani Takes Oath for the Fourth Time, Meets Prime Minister Modi
New Delhi, June 26: Recently re-elected Rajya Sabha member from Jharkhand, Parimal Nathwani, took his oath for the fourth time on Thursday, marking a significant and proud moment in his public life. Nathwani expressed gratitude towards the people of Jharkhand, the NDA leadership, and his supporters. After taking the oath, he acknowledged the responsibility that ... Read more Parimal Nathwani Takes Oath for the Fourth Time, Meets Prime Minister Modi
Indian Spinner Shri Charani Becomes Leading Wicket-Taker in a Single Womens T20 World Cup Edition
New Delhi, June 26: Indian spinner Shri Charani has made history by becoming the leading wicket-taker for India in a single edition of the Womens T20 World Cup. She achieved this milestone during the 23rd match against Bangladesh, where she took 2 wickets. Shri Charani has claimed a total of 12 wickets in four matches ... Read more Indian Spinner Shri Charani Becomes Leading Wicket-Taker in a Single Womens T20 World Cup Edition
5-Day calligraphy conference-cum-workshop concludes at Chadoora
Srinagar, Jun 25: The five-day Calligraphy Conference-cum-Workshop, organised by Sheikh-ul-Alam Calligraphy and Cultural Organisation, Chadoora, Budgam, with financial assistance from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, New Delhi, concluded today with a grand valedictory function at Government Higher Secondary School, Zohama, Chadoora. The concluding ceremony was attended by Tariq Ahmad Reshi (ACD, RDD) as the chief guest. Among the distinguished guests present on the occasion were renowned artist Asad Anjum, Abdul Ghani Dar, Principal of Government Higher Secondary School, Zohama, and Raja Muzaffar Bhat, Chairman of the RTI Movement. The guests appreciated the efforts of the organisers in promoting the rich tradition of calligraphy and creating opportunities for young students to learn and preserve this valuable cultural heritage. The organisation also honoured the calligraphy experts, artists, and resource persons who imparted training and shared their knowledge during the workshop. Their contributions were widely appreciated by both the organizers and participants. The speakers highlighted the historical, artistic, and cultural significance of calligraphy and stressed the need for preserving traditional art forms in the modern age. They emphasised that such programmes play an important role in nurturing creativity, discipline, patience, and aesthetic appreciation among students. Speaking on the occasion, the office bearers of Sheikh-ul-Alam Calligraphy and Cultural Organisation reiterated their commitment to the promotion and preservation of calligraphic art and cultural heritage. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the school administration, resource persons, guests, and participants for making the event a grand success. A large number of students, teachers, artists, calligraphy enthusiasts, cultural activists, and members of civil society attended the concluding ceremony.
India Elevates Diplomatic Status of High Commissioner to Bangladesh
Dhaka, June 26: The Indian government has granted its High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, a status equivalent to that of a central cabinet minister. This move underscores New Delhis commitment to strengthening its ties with Dhaka. An official memorandum from the Home Ministry stated, The High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, has ... Read more India Elevates Diplomatic Status of High Commissioner to Bangladesh
Digital arrest scams: CBI conducts searches in 16 states
NEW DELHI, June 25: The CBI has conducted searches at 80 locations in 16 states to dismantle a network that ensnared hundreds of people in digital arrest scams using a URL similar to that of the Supreme Court website, officials said Thursday. The agency deployed 60 specialised teams across 16 states stretching from Punjab and []
Iran oil minister in Delhi amid 60-day US sanctions waiver
No Guilty Will Escape in Ram Temple Donation Scam, Says BJP Spokesperson RP Singh
New Delhi, June 26: BJP national spokesperson RP Singh addressed several issues, including the Ram Temple donation scam, Rahul Gandhis foreign trips, and the NEET exam controversy. He asserted that both the central and state governments are operating with transparency and accountability, ensuring that no guilty party will be spared. Regarding the FIR filed based ... Read more No Guilty Will Escape in Ram Temple Donation Scam, Says BJP Spokesperson RP Singh
Urgent Medical Aid Expected for Gaza from India
New Delhi, June 26: The Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh, expressed strong confidence on Thursday that India will soon send significant medical assistance to Gaza, where the health system is in a state of complete collapse. In an interview, Abu Shawesh described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as very poor, noting that only ... Read more Urgent Medical Aid Expected for Gaza from India
Four women, infant rescued after roof collapse in north Delhi
Delhi Chief Minister Orders Inspection of Fortis Hospital Following Public Complaint
New Delhi, June 26: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered an immediate inspection of Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh following a complaint received during a public hearing. A team of officials promptly visited the hospital and identified several irregularities, prompting the government to initiate a comprehensive investigation. In a statement from the Chief Ministers ... Read more Delhi Chief Minister Orders Inspection of Fortis Hospital Following Public Complaint
Mahesh Dixit Appointed as New Director of Intelligence Bureau
New Delhi, June 26: Senior Indian Police Service officer Mahesh Dixit has been appointed as the new Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) as of Thursday. He succeeds the current director, Tapan Kumar Deka. The appointment has been approved by the Cabinet Appointment Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mahesh Dixit, an IPS officer ... Read more Mahesh Dixit Appointed as New Director of Intelligence Bureau
US gives India assurance on access to AI technologies
India has received assurances from the US that access to AI technologies will remain open, according to a top official. New Delhi believes the AI sector still requires innovation and is not yet ready for regulation. US officials expressed concerns about the potential impact and use of advanced AI models, seeking a review mechanism before their release.
Man Kills Wife In Delhi After Dispute Over His Extramarital Affair: Cops
A 30-year-old woman was allegedly shot dead by her husband in south Delhi's Sangam Vihar area, with the accused fleeing the spot after the incident, police said on Friday.
A meeting that students should know about
Arshiya Nadaf I was taught in my class, The best way to predict the future of your village is to participate in making it. Recently, I have been trying to understand how democracy functions beyond elections and political debates. In the process, I realised that one of its most important institutions is not in Delhi []
50 detained as cops evict protesters from GIMS campus
Hospital Says Agitation Hit Patient Care; Protesters Allege Assault & Threats
Korean delegation visits YEIDA to explore investment opportunities
Proposed Korean City to Increase Investment by Korean Companies in the Region
No classes for 2 years, 7 schools lose UP Board tag in Noida, Ghaziabad
Schools Neither Conducted Classes Nor Sent Students For Board Examinations In The Last Two Academic Sessions
Fire breaks out on ninth floor of commercial building in Greater Noida
Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 40 minutes
Loni bus stand to Vaishali station cut, PWD flags 5 crash-prone spots
Power outages hit Noida-Ghaziabad localities
Disruptions Due to Equipment Overloading and Overheating
Day after tehrvi, dead man back home
Sudden Return Of Man Claimed To Have Been Murdered Leaves Cops Scrambling To Identify Whose Body Was Cremated
