The Economic Times

June 2026 brings significant observances to India. Devotees will mark Parama Ekadashi and Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi with fasting and prayers. The Muslim community observes Muharram. India also joins global efforts for World Environment Day and International Yoga Day. These events foster spiritual reflection and community engagement across the nation.

India's economy shows cautious resilience. Domestic strengths support the outlook despite global challenges. Manufacturing and services are growing. Labour markets are stable. Foreign exchange reserves offer protection. However, rising crude prices, tighter finances, and a weak monsoon pose risks. Inflation needs careful watching. Navigating the coming year requires adaptability to maintain growth and control prices.

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan concluded his tenure, calling it very satisfying. He focused on enhancing synergy among the three services. Gen Chauhan played a key role in planning and implementation of Operation Sindoor. He also initiated measures for India's theaterisation model. Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani will take charge as the next CDS.

From courtroom clashes and superhero mysteries to family dramas and sports documentaries, OTT platforms are bringing a diverse mix of movies and web series for viewers looking to binge-watch this weekend.

June 2026 Ekadashi Dates: In June 2026, devotees will observe two important Ekadashi fasts dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Parama Ekadashi on 11 June, which falls during the auspicious Adhika Maas, and Nirjala Ekadashi on 25 June, considered the most rigorous Ekadashi fast as it is observed without food or water. Both fasts are believed to bring spiritual growth, divine blessings, and the grace of Lord Vishnu.

The International Cricket Council has appointed Ros Rivaz as its new Independent Director. She brings extensive international leadership and governance experience. Rivaz currently chairs Anglian Water and UK Companies House. Her appointment strengthens board oversight and ensures diverse perspectives. ICC Chairman Jay Shah welcomed her strategic insight. Rivaz expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the game's growth and long-term development.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has chosen to keep her daughter, Aaradhya, away from social media, placing greater emphasis on real-life experiences and active parental involvement. Her approach highlights the importance of introducing digital access only when children are ready and protecting their privacy as they grow up. In an increasingly digital world, this parenting style offers valuable lessons on giving children a more grounded childhood.

Kagiso Rabada highlighted Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's impressive performance due to his quick hands and early length picking. Anil Kumble described Shubman Gill's century as a chanceless, classic innings. Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals, the two most consistent teams, reached the final. Rabada also discussed his bowling partnership with Mohammed Siraj.

Vitamin B12 plays a key role in maintaining energy levels, nerve health and red blood cell production. While juices alone cannot fully meet B12 requirements, certain nutrient-rich drinks and dairy-based beverages can support overall nutrition and complement a balanced diet. Here are seven options worth trying.

June 2026 calendar: June 2026 is a month of global significance, featuring World Environment Day and the International Day Against Drug Abuse. Major events include the ICC Women's T20 World Cup starting June 12 and Father's Day on June 21, offering a blend of awareness, cultural celebration, and sporting excitement.

Cloud kitchen success story: A teacher from Varanasi transformed her Rs 9,000-a-month tuition income into a thriving cloud kitchen business that now generates more than Rs 1.25 lakh in monthly revenue. Her journey, driven by a focus on food quality and gradual expansion, highlights how a scalable business model can improve financial stability and create greater earning potential than traditional hourly work.

Three Latvian climbers died on Mount McKinley after a fall near Denali Pass, a treacherous section of North America's tallest peak. A fourth climber was rescued by park personnel. The expedition was traversing a route known for its exposed sections, where many accidents have occurred.

Amitabh Bachchan has lauded young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old impressed with a 96-run innings for Rajasthan Royals. Despite the team's loss, Sooryavanshi's performance garnered significant attention. Bachchan shared an emotional message on social media, highlighting the youngster's talent. Sooryavanshi is now recognized as a promising talent in cricket.

The US Justice Department is investigating a group linked to billionaire Reid Hoffman. This group partially funded E. Jean Carroll's lawsuits against Donald Trump. The probe focuses on potential money laundering and obstruction. Carroll won two defamation and sexual abuse lawsuits against Trump. Hoffman denies any wrongdoing, calling the accusation absurd.

Satellite images reveal that China is constructing a vast network of military infrastructure in its north-western deserts, including more than 80 potential launch pads and fortified complexes. The expansion appears to be aimed at enhancing China's ability to launch a retaliatory nuclear strike and improving the survivability of its land-based nuclear forces.

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi stated that all three Indian Armed Forces branches are preparing for 'Operation Sindoor 2.0' with a temporary cessation of hostilities in place. He emphasized enhancing jointness and readiness for future warfare, noting the transparency of modern battlefields and the importance of public trust in information warfare.

America has launched a trade probe into Vietnam's handling of intellectual property. This move could lead to new tariffs. Vietnam has been flagged for failing to address long-standing concerns. While Vietnam has made some progress, infringement continues. Enforcement challenges persist, with counterfeit goods widely available. This investigation follows previous trade actions and ongoing negotiations between the two nations.

Mobile internet and bulk SMS services are suspended in a Faridabad zone on May 30. The Haryana government issued the order to maintain public order during a demolition drive. The suspension covers a one-kilometer radius. It aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumors. Voice calls and some internet services remain operational.

Manipur's cabinet has embraced Prime Minister's appeal for austerity. Measures include reducing VIP convoys and freezing foreign travel. The state will also hire 173 Auxiliary Nurse Midwives and offer age relaxation for recruitments. Land acquisition rates for highway expansion are approved. Employee welfare is prioritized with post rationalization.

Delhi police apprehended five Bangladeshi nationals for overstaying their visas. The arrests followed a tip about suspicious individuals speaking Bangla. The group had arrived in Delhi from Bangladesh and planned to travel to Greece for employment. They remained in Delhi beyond their visa validity, awaiting job offers. Efforts are underway to apprehend an associate who assisted them.

Garena Free Fire MAX offers players daily rewards through redeem codes, which are 12-character alphanumeric combinations released regularly. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once, so players should act fast. To claim rewards, visit the official redemption site, log in, and enter the code.

Russia's intelligence agencies are aggressively seeking Western technology and defense secrets to bolster its war economy, employing fake companies and cyber spies. Facing sanctions and war costs, Moscow is targeting advanced research, weaponry, and dual-use technology, even risking detection with cyberattacks. Mounting economic woes and battlefield stagnation are reportedly causing concern among Russian officials.

America has revoked the visa of a Chinese journalist working for Xinhua. This move follows Beijing's decision to expel a New York Times reporter. The US action is a direct response to China's expulsion of Vivian Wang. This tit-for-tat measure escalates tensions. It impacts media access for both nations. The situation highlights ongoing disputes over journalistic freedom.

General Anil Chauhan received a ceremonial Guard of Honour. This marked the end of his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff. He played a key role in integrating the three services. General Chauhan also released the Joint Air Defence Doctrine. He launched the Tri-Services Tele Directory Web Application. His tenure focused on jointness, technology, and tri-services coordination.

CBSE will launch its enhanced post-result portal for answer sheet verification and re-evaluation on June 1, 2026, aiming for a transparent and glitch-free student experience. This move follows concerns about the On-Screen Marking system and technical issues, with IIT experts now assisting in system improvements. Fees for these services have also been significantly reduced.

America is prepared to resume military action against Iran if negotiations fail. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that US forces are capable and well-supplied for such a scenario. This comes as talks continue to bridge significant gaps. President Donald Trump seeks a deal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, thanking him for Pakistan's role in advancing Middle East peace. Meanwhile, President Trump announced an emergency meeting to finalize a peace deal with Iran, demanding it relinquish nuclear ambitions and open the Strait of Hormuz for unrestricted shipping.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the seizure of approximately $1 billion in Iranian cryptocurrency assets as part of Operation Economic Fury. This economic pressure campaign, combined with military actions, has severely weakened Iran's financial standing, leading to salary shortages and surging inflation. Bessent highlighted efforts to disrupt Iran's financial networks and noted increased cooperation with Gulf allies.

A federal judge ruled President Trump's name was illegally added to the Kennedy Center and blocked renovations, calling the board's vote ill-informed. Trump responded by withdrawing his renovation plans and returning control to Congress. The judge ordered Trump's name removed from the building and official materials within two weeks.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's entry in the women's 53kg category for the Asian Games selection trials has been accepted by the WFI, following a Supreme Court decision. This clears the Olympian to compete after a disqualification at the Paris Olympics and a maternity break, despite earlier eligibility concerns.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth highlighted India as a key pillar of regional stability at the Shangri-La Dialogue, noting its military modernization and growing role in the Indian Ocean. He emphasized India's defense manufacturing capabilities and the US commitment to co-production initiatives, underscoring the importance of collective readiness in the Indo-Pacific.

Petrol, diesel prices today: Fuel prices in India remained steady on May 30, offering a brief respite after recent increases. Prices, however, remain elevated due to a surge in global crude oil rates and ongoing geopolitical tensions. This pause comes after significant hikes that pushed fuel prices to their highest level since May 2022. Consumption patterns also indicate strong growth in petrol and diesel sales across several districts.

President Trump has thrown his support behind three Republican gubernatorial hopefuls in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma. His endorsements for Pamela Evette, Randy Feenstra, and Mike Mazzei come as these states gear up for competitive GOP primaries. Trump highlighted Evette's loyalty and Feenstra's MAGA all the way stance, aiming to influence races crucial for the party's future.

RR vs GT IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans secured a spot in the IPL 2026 Final. They chased down a target of 215 against Rajasthan Royals. Captain Shubman Gill led the charge with a century. Sai Sudharsan also contributed significantly. Rajasthan Royals posted 214/6, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scoring 96. Gujarat Titans will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final.

The US military conducted a third strike this week on a boat accused of drug smuggling in the eastern Pacific, resulting in three deaths. This attack brings the total death toll to 202 in the ongoing campaign against alleged drug trafficking operations. The US Southern Command announced the strike, providing no evidence for the accusations.

Quote of the Day by Marlon Brando: Marlon Brandos quote, With women, I've got a long bamboo pole with a leather loop on the end. I slip the loop around their necks so they can't get away or come too close. Like catching snakes, explores the complexity of emotional distance, vulnerability, and control in relationships. The quote uses strong metaphorical language to describe the fear of becoming either too emotionally attached or too emotionally distant.

The Trump administration will appeal a judge's order for across-the-board refunds of illegal tariffs, potentially creating legal chaos. This follows a Supreme Court ruling that the tariffs were unlawful. The Justice Department is challenging the judge's nationwide authority to oversee the refund process, even as a customs portal is underway.

The United States has dismantled an Iranian network that defrauded American tech companies out of millions to acquire sensitive military technology. The network, led by Ali Majd Sepehr, used fake websites and intermediaries to smuggle advanced equipment into Iran, violating US sanctions. This action follows a $15 million reward announcement for information on Iran's IRGC financial mechanisms.

The top U.S. general overseeing Latin America met with senior Cuban military officials near Guantanamo Bay, discussing operational security. This rare meeting occurs amid Cuban concerns of a potential U.S. attack, following a recent CIA director visit and escalating U.S. pressure on the island.

Scientists are exploring a new way to treat chronic nerve pain by focusing on mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells. Researchers from Duke University School of Medicine found that damaged nerves may improve when healthy mitochondria are restored or shared between cells. The study suggests pain may be linked to cellular energy failure, opening possibilities for future treatments that repair rather than mask symptoms.

Greek Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Before a womans quarrel, your head better be gone. The saying reflects how heated arguments, once they begin, can quickly become emotionally intense and difficult to control. It suggests that conflict often escalates beyond reason, making it wiser at times to step away rather than engage further. The proverb emphasizes emotional awareness, timing, and self-control in communication.

India anticipates below-average monsoon rains this year, with precipitation expected to be less than 90% of the long-period average. This forecast raises concerns for agricultural output, particularly for pulses and oilseeds. The situation could affect farmer incomes and consumer prices. The India Meteorological Department's prediction highlights potential challenges for the nation's food security and economic stability.

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of A woman's polite devotion is her greatest beauty. The saying reflects how inner qualities such as respect, kindness, humility, and emotional dedication are often valued more deeply than outward appearance. It suggests that true beauty is not only defined by physical traits, but also by the way a person behaves toward others in daily life.