The Times of India

After a wave of criticism, NCERT has decided to restore the authentic 'Dancing Girl' artwork in its Class 9 arts textbook. The previous modified version, which covered the figurine's torso, was regarded by many as a form of censorship. Following consultations with experts, the organization has chosen to present the true representation of this 4,500-year-old Indus Valley treasure.

Following a violent incident at a protest in Jaipur, Cockroach Janta Party leader Abhijeet Dipke called for calm among supporters. He condemned the attack as an attempt to instill fear, stressing that it would not weaken their push for Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over issues related to examination disputes and rising unemployment.

In a landmark achievement, India has executed a successful test of its homegrown Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) off the picturesque coast of Odisha. This cutting-edge missile showcases remarkable precision, targeting adversaries up to 1,500 kilometers away, positioning itself as a formidable rival to the renowned US Tomahawk.

Today, June 15, 2026, marks the observance of Somvati Amavasya, a highly auspicious day in Sanatan Dharma dedicated to honoring ancestors. This powerful new moon, falling on a Monday, is ideal for spiritual practices like pitru tarpan, charity, and worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees also engage in feeding cows and crows, believed to connect them with celestial beings and ancestors.

Rahul Gandhi is spearheading a national movement with Congress to tackle exam scandals, declaring that these repeated setbacks are stifling the ambitions of our youth. He encouraged students to band together and raise their voices louder, emphasizing that each incident of leakage or delay is a direct hit to the hopes of countless individuals.

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has urged RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to disclose the organization's legal status, finances, and tax compliance. Citing the RSS's extensive presence and public mobilization, Kharge argued for accountability in a constitutional democracy. He called for transparency, suggesting formal registration and adherence to Indian laws, especially following recent remarks on university VCs attending RSS events.

A seven-year-old boy in Kerala's Malappuram district has succumbed to Shigella infection, marking the state's fourth fatality from the disease this year. The child was admitted with fever and diarrhea, later diagnosed with the bacterial illness. Kerala has seen 138 confirmed Shigella cases so far in 2026, with ongoing surveillance and containment efforts in affected areas.

A US trade delegation is set to visit India next week for crucial talks on a proposed trade agreement, following recent negotiations. Discussions are expected to cover goods trade, customs, and economic security. India is pushing for preferential tariffs and protection against future hikes.

AAP national convener credited divine intervention for the party's rise in the state and lauded the performance of the current administration.

Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool joined a special yoga session organized by the Indian High Commission for the 12th International Day of Yoga. The event, themed 'Yoga For Healthy Ageing,' highlighted yoga's benefits for preventive healthcare and holistic well-being, underscoring the shared heritage between India and Mauritius. Discussions also touched upon growing cooperation in AYUSH.

An Indian man, Mohmad Rijwan, was apprehended in Nepal's Lumbini Province after authorities discovered 63.5 grams of brown sugar hidden within his undergarments during a routine check. Police also confiscated his motorcycle. In a separate incident, 104 kilograms of marijuana were found in a crashed jeep in Koshi Province, with the driver having fled the scene.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the US-Iran understanding to end West Asian conflict, expressing hope for regional stability and safeguarded global commerce. The agreement, announced by US President Donald Trump, aims to lift the US blockade on Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with a formal signing expected soon.

In an X post, the Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of farmers, describing them as the providers of grain and stating that they are central to the nation's development journey.

Nepal resumed its seasonal 40 MW hydropower supply to Bangladesh via the Indian grid, marking a landmark trilateral partnership. Running from mid-June to mid-November, the subregional trade meets Bangladesh's high-demand season. Both nations have agreed to expand the supply to 60 MW, pending India's final consideration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his European tour in Bratislava, Slovakia. He received a warm cultural welcome with traditional Slovak music and dance. A Slovak folk ensemble sang Vande Mataram. The custom of offering bread and salt symbolized hospitality. Prime Minister Modi also met the Indian community. Discussions with Slovak leaders will focus on strengthening cooperation.

India's food regulator, FSSAI, is cracking down on misleading health claims and brand names. Notices have been issued to numerous food businesses for products marketed as healthy or zero maida without proper substantiation. The authority aims to prevent consumer deception by ensuring accurate labelling and preventing the misuse of terms like organic and rue vitamin without necessary certifications.

Congress said India should put off the upcoming visit of US trade representatives in view of the killings of seafarers and Rubios threatening language with Jaishankar. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge slammed the PM for his silence over the killings. And you have the audacity to sugarcoat it with the Vishwaguru narrative.

Congress has planned a national outreach that will seek to unite students beyond political affiliations and provide a platform for the affected youth to share their experiences and demand accountability for repeated examination failures and paper leak scandals. AICC general secretary KC Venugopal said Rahul will also be holding conventions in Allahabad (July 10), Patna (July 11), and Delhi (July 14).

Ahead of TMC rebel MPs meeting the speaker to seek recognition as real TMC, MPs from party chief Mamata Banerjees camp Kirti Azad and Sagarika Ghosh submitted Abhisheks letter dated June 10, sent through email earlier at Birlas residence here, arguing the Constitution does not permit formation of a separate group within an existing political party.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared India's readiness to decisively counter security threats, granting armed forces full autonomy against terrorism. He criticized past governments' soft approach, highlighting current freedom to eliminate terrorists, even across borders. Singh also lauded Maharana Pratap as a symbol of national pride and linked his values to the Modi government's governance philosophy.

Kerala's Health Minister has reassured the populace about the Nipah and Shigella outbreaks, declaring that the situations are under control despite a Nipah patient being placed on a ventilator and the unfortunate report of 135 Shigella cases alongside three deaths.

Air New Zealand is setting its sights on India with prospective direct flights, tapping into the newly established Free Trade Agreement to strengthen travel connections. Collaborations are underway with Air India and Singapore Airlines, paving the way for a non-stop service between India and New Zealand by 2028, contingent on necessary approvals and aircraft readiness.

A dramatic rescue saw all 14 Indian crew members of the vessel Virat 1 saved after it sank off Oman due to mechanical failure. Meanwhile, Abhishek Banerjee urged the Lok Sabha Speaker to reject any breakaway TMC faction.

Trinamool Congress figures Abhishek Banerjee and Kunal Ghosh found themselves under the CID's scrutiny today, facing questions over the alleged forgery of legislative signatures tied to the opposition leader's appointment. With investigators delving into the nuances of the meetings and the related documents, they plan to meticulously verify the statements made.

Papers not susceptible to cyber breaches, say govt officials

An experiment pitting AI against a seasoned travel agent for a Delhi-Manali trip revealed surprising similarities in itinerary planning. While AI excelled in speed and cost transparency, the human agent offered a concrete package, highlighting the irreplaceable value of on-ground execution and negotiation. Pricing emerged as a key differentiator, with the agent securing a lower cost.

Since its inception in March 2025, Punjab's 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' campaign has seen an impressive wave of success, with more than 90,000 individuals benefiting from de-addiction and rehabilitation efforts. Combining rigorous strategies against drug traffickers with in-depth treatment and educational programs, this initiative is redefining recovery.

A 33-year-old Dalit man was allegedly beaten to death in Uttar Pradesh after refusing to massage the feet of three men during a drunken gathering. The accused reportedly dumped his body on a road to stage a road accident. Police have arrested the trio and registered a murder case under the SC/ST Act.

Sanjay Raut from Shiv Sena (UBT) has stepped into the political fray, denouncing the FIR against Mamata Banerjee as politically motivated. He highlighted the inconsistency in law enforcement, referencing past controversies involving BJP figures. Pledging his allegiance to Banerjee, he hailed her as a tenacious warrior for her constituents.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman strongly defended the Modi government's achievements, countering Rahul Gandhi's criticisms. She highlighted India's robust economic growth amidst global challenges, citing IMF acknowledgments and significant poverty reduction. Sitharaman also detailed the government's welfare initiatives and infrastructure investments, particularly in Karnataka, urging collective effort towards a developed India by 2047.

The Congress party has voiced sharp criticism against the Modi government for its lackadaisical response to the deaths of three Indian crew members in a US military action that targeted a commercial vessel. Party officials are calling for a firm diplomatic stance, perplexed by the absence of remorse from the United States.

TMC MP Saayoni Ghosh arrived in Delhi amid speculation of joining a rebel faction, declining to comment. This follows another TMC MP's arrival as a proposed meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker looms. The party faces internal dissent, with a significant number of MPs and MLAs reportedly backing the dissident camp.