The Economic Times

Iran's armed forces declared an end to military operations against Israel, but warned of escalated attacks if Israeli strikes on Lebanon continue. This announcement follows direct exchanges of fire between the two nations, with former US President Donald Trump stating both sides are seeking an immediate ceasefire.

The UGC NET 2026 (June session) exam, crucial for aspiring Assistant Professors and JRF holders, is scheduled from June 22 to June 30, 2026. This Computer-Based Test comprises two papers, Paper 1 on Teaching and Research Aptitude and Paper 2 on the chosen subject, with each correct answer awarding 2 marks and no negative marking.

Defence ministry sources have said that the production and readiness schedule for the LCA Mark1A is expected to reach around 18 to 24 aircraft by the end of the current year. The programme has faced delays due to GE F414 engine supply issues from the US firm. The Tejas Mk1A is part of Indias indigenous fighter aircraft development initiative.

A double chin is a common concern and can develop due to factors such as weight gain, ageing, genetics or reduced skin elasticity.

NEET-UG 2026 retest paper setters are in strict isolation. This is part of enhanced security measures for the June 21 examination. Mobile phones and internet access are restricted. The entire examination process is under additional oversight. Social media is being monitored for fake papers and misinformation.

The Centre is considering a major overhaul of driving licence and vehicle services, potentially extending licence validity until age 50 and moving ownership transfers and permit renewals entirely online. These digital initiatives aim to simplify procedures, reduce RTO visits, and enhance citizen convenience, with officials confident about revenue and road safety improvements.

JoSAA seat allocation 2026: JoSAA has released the first mock seat allocation for the 2026 counselling process, giving engineering aspirants an early indication of the institutes and courses they may secure based on their current choices and rank positions. Candidates can review the provisional allotment and modify their preferences before the first official seat allocation round on 13 June 2026 to improve their admission prospects.

President Trump announced that both Israel and Iran are seeking an immediate ceasefire, with final peace negotiations underway. He stated the blockade will remain until a final deal is reached, suggesting rapid developments. This comes amid heightened regional tensions and exchanges of fire, though no official confirmation from either nation has been provided.

A PIL has been filed in the Supreme Court. It seeks a court-monitored investigation into alleged banking frauds. The case involves asset reconstruction companies, public sector banks, and a Noida-based infrastructure firm. The plea highlights a forensic audit report. This report identified suspicious transactions related to a Rs 912 crore loan.

China urges India to view them as cooperative partners, not rivals, emphasizing mutual development and opportunities. Beijing supports dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve differences. Meanwhile, Russia's President Putin highlighted his nation's strong, independent ties with both India and China, stressing that Moscow's relationships with each do not negatively impact the other.

India expresses deep concern over escalating West Asia hostilities. The nation calls for immediate de-escalation and protection of civilians. India urges all parties to pursue a diplomatic resolution to restore peace and stability. The conflict has now stretched beyond 100 days, causing widespread human suffering and disrupting global economic activity and energy supplies.

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein face severe threats and harassment. Their identities were exposed in government files, leading to online abuse and real-world intimidation. Many now live in fear, taking extreme measures for protection. This ongoing ordeal deepens the trauma inflicted by Epstein's crimes. The government acknowledges errors in file redaction but states it can't be blamed for the backlash.

INDIA bloc leaders convened in New Delhi to reinforce unity and strategize against the ruling party. Discussions focused on protecting democratic principles and tackling economic challenges. The meeting aimed to bridge internal differences following recent electoral outcomes. Leaders emphasized collective decision-making to confront national issues. This gathering signals a renewed effort to unite opposition forces.

Word of the Day: Paracosm is far more than a little-known vocabulary term. It captures one of humanitys most remarkable talents, the ability to create entire worlds in the imagination and, in time, transform elements of those imagined realities into something tangible and real.

Italian proverb of the day: The saying, A woman's tongue is her sword, and she rarely lets it rust, highlights the power of communication and the value of using one's voice effectively. It suggests that intelligence, wit and confidence, when regularly exercised, can become powerful strengths. The message remains relevant today, reminding us that words have the ability to influence others, build relationships and leave a lasting impact.

Mizoram's Nazareth Lalthazuala, a 22-year-old former vegetable seller, has achieved a remarkable $100,000 ONE Championship contract after a stunning 17-second knockout. This victory marks a historic debut for an Indian fighter on the global MMA stage, inspiring millions and highlighting the potential of Northeast India's combat sports talent. He remains grounded, aiming to elevate Indian MMA.

The Supreme Court has ruled that landlords are not responsible for environmental breaches by their tenants' chemical units. This decision upholds a National Green Tribunal order. The Gujarat Pollution Control Board had sought to hold a landlord liable for a tenant's unit. The court's ruling provides clarity on landlord responsibilities in such cases.

Rat problems are escalating in major US cities due to modern urban design, not just sanitation. Dense populations, extensive underground infrastructure like subways and sewers, and consistent food waste create ideal year-round habitats for rodents. Cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles face persistent challenges as urban growth inadvertently supports rodent survival.

The Delhi High Court has ordered social media platforms to immediately remove videos targeting a sitting judge. These videos allegedly hold the judge responsible for a building collapse in Saidulajab. The Delhi High Court Bar Association sought criminal contempt action against the social media user. The court questioned the platforms' inaction. Meta, Google, and LinkedIn assured compliance.

In a volatile turn of events, escalating strikes between Iran and Israel are sending shockwaves that may reach Indias economy. As the specter of increased oil prices looms, disruptions in supply chains could become a reality. The Reserve Bank of India is on alert, with policymakers devising strategies to mitigate possible fallout.

South Korea is set to reform its election system following ballot paper shortages during recent local polls. The incident sparked public anger and calls for a new election. President Lee Jae Myung has ordered a full investigation into the matter. The head of the election commission has resigned. This event has raised concerns about democratic integrity.

The year 2025 marked a pivotal moment for India's nuclear strategy as it ramped up its arsenal and introduced innovative delivery methods. The military confrontation with Pakistan in May highlighted an unprecedented use of cyber operations in warfare.

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to increase interest rates soon. This move aligns with other central banks responding to rising inflation. Policymakers have signaled a potential rate hike if price pressures become widespread. The RBI has also raised its inflation forecast for the fiscal year ending March 2027. Economists anticipate rate increases in the coming months.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced over 58 crore Jan Dhan accounts have integrated millions into formal banking. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana ensures welfare benefits, insurance, and pensions reach citizens directly. This initiative has empowered Indians, with 56% of account holders being women. India leads globally in poverty reduction. Ninety-four percent of adults now possess bank accounts.

In a significant cultural move, Israel plans to erect a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolizing burgeoning India-Israel friendship. Announced on Shivrajyabhishek Din, the project, supported by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, aims to honor Shivaji's legacy and historical Maharashtra-Jewish community ties. This initiative seeks to deepen people-to-people connections and foster mutual respect.

The Reserve Bank of India has reached a record $110-$115 billion in its net-short dollar book, a key tool for defending the rupee. This significant increase in forward dollar sales, particularly in offshore markets, aims to curb excessive volatility driven by factors like oil price shocks and speculative pressures.

Kerala Lottery Result Today: The Kerala State Lottery Department will announce the Bhagyathara BT-57 lottery results today. Thousands of ticket holders await the draw for a chance to win prizes, including a Rs 1 crore first prize. The draw takes place in Thiruvananthapuram. Winning numbers will be published shortly after the official announcement.

MHT CET 2026 results for PCM and PCB streams are expected soon, following the release of the final answer key. Over 16 lakh students appeared for the exam, and the declaration of results will initiate the Centralised Admission Process (CAP) for professional courses across Maharashtra.

Violence erupted in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as security forces clashed with protesters. Eleven people died and over seventy were injured. The Joint Awami Action Committee organized a protest against reserved seats for refugees in upcoming elections. The regional government had previously banned the committee. This incident follows similar deadly clashes over rising costs.

In FY27, India's economy grapples with inflation that hits hardest in rural regions, where rising food prices become an urgent concern. The eyes of policymakers are fixed on the monsoon's trajectory, a key determinant for crop health. Global factors, such as elevated crude oil prices and geopolitical strife, further exacerbate inflationary trends.

A Bench comprising Justice JK Maheshwari and Justice Atul S Chandurkar took note of the progress made through the mediation process and directed the parties to proceed with implementation of the settlement arrived at during court-monitored mediation proceedings.

Leh district authorities have banned the sale and distribution of mouth fresheners containing tobacco. The order aims to protect school-going children from harmful products. Products like 'Cool Lip' are specifically mentioned. This preventive measure is in the interest of public health. Violators will face legal action. The ban is effective immediately and remains until further notice.

The Supreme Court has ordered the implementation of a settlement in a property dispute concerning the Ardee Group. The disagreement involved the daughters of late developer Ashok Varma. A mediator appointed by the court facilitated the resolution of major disputes. The court has granted time for the parties to complete the settlement process and implement the agreed terms.

India faces a growing threat of extreme heat stress. A recent study reveals that with a 2-degree Celsius global warming, the monsoon season could experience significant uncompensable heat stress. This prolonged heat poses critical challenges to public health and labor productivity across the country. Regions like the Indo-Gangetic plain and coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.

Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has faced online backlash after his past comments on wealth inequality resurfaced. Hamilton, with an estimated net worth of $550 million, argued that no individual should accumulate billions while poverty persists. The debate intensified due to his reported relationship with Kim Kardashian, who is worth approximately $1.9 billion.

The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre and CBSE to respond to a petition by the National Students' Union of India. The student group is seeking an independent inquiry into alleged large-scale irregularities in the on-screen marking system for Class 12 exams. The court has listed the matter for further hearing.

West Indies Women vs India Women Playing 11: India Women will play West Indies Women in a warm-up match for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. The game is scheduled for June 8 in Cardiff. Both teams aim to finalize strategies and player form. India boasts a strong batting lineup, while West Indies relies on experienced players. Weather conditions may impact the match.

Anand Mahindra Puri water story: Puri, a coastal city in India, now offers tap water safe for direct consumption. This transformation follows a major infrastructure upgrade and community engagement. Local women, known as Jal Sathis, played a crucial role in building public trust. The initiative has reduced water loss and plastic waste.

Indian-origin cricketers in British Columbia bravely intervened when a woman was allegedly being stalked in a park. Their calm approach and de-escalation tactics ensured her safety, earning widespread online praise. This positive act contrasts with a recent viral incident of alleged racism against an Indian-origin man in Nova Scotia, highlighting community spirit amidst divisive events.

Urban consumers grew more pessimistic about the economy, jobs, and spending in May, with the Current Situation Index falling for the third consecutive round. Professional forecasters also lowered India's growth outlook for 2026-27 to 6.5%, citing emerging signs of softer demand and weakening sentiment.

Kemi Blake secured a gold medal for the USA at the World Yogasana Championships in Ahmedabad. Her daughter, Kimani Blake, also participated. The mother-daughter duo embraced the competitive aspect of Yogasana, believing it aligns with traditional values. Despite travel disruptions, they achieved their goals. The event showcased the sport's potential for global unity.