Following consecutive student suicides at KIIT-Bhubaneshwar, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has formed a fact-finding committee. Chaired by Prof. Nageshwar Rao, the panel will investigate the incidents, including the recent death of a Nepalese student, and propose preventive measures. The UGC has requested the committee to submit its report within ten days.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned Ullu App CEO Vibhu Agarwal and actor Ajaz Khan over the web series House Arrest, citing alleged coercive and vulgar content involving women. The NCW took suo motu cognisance of the show, condemning its content and raising concerns about consent, safety, and exploitation.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that the likelihood of conflict with India is growing, despite international efforts to de-escalate tensions. He affirmed Pakistan's commitment to retaliate against any Indian aggression, promising a response proportionate to the provocation. Asif expressed hope for a peaceful resolution but noted the continued escalation.

A parliamentary panel on defence strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam. The attack resulted in the death of twenty-six people. The committee observed a two-minute silence to show solidarity. Rahul Gandhi, Sanjay Singh, and Virendra Singh attended the meeting. The committee discussed resettlement policies and healthcare for ex-servicemen. Radha Mohan Singh expressed deep anguish over the Pahalgam attack.

A trial has commenced in Paris concerning the 2016 robbery of Kim Kardashian, where millions in jewelry were stolen. Ten individuals face charges of robbery and kidnapping. Kardashian recounted her terror, fearing rape and death. She will testify, with her lawyers emphasizing her respect for the French justice system.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India and Pakistan cancelled visas. Over 450 Indians returned home via the Wagah border. Among them were members of the Pakistan Super League broadcast team. Around 200 Pakistani nationals also returned from India. The Attari-Wagah border closed, and SAARC visa privileges were revoked. Some Indian-origin foreign nationals were also affected. Cross-border transit was suspended.

Iran has offered to mediate between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi expressed Iran's readiness to facilitate understanding between the two nations. Iran condemned the attack, which killed many tourists. Araghchi highlighted the historical ties between Iran, India, and Pakistan.

Retired Karnataka DGP Om Prakash was found dead at his Bengaluru residence under suspicious circumstances, with his body discovered with injuries. His spouse, Pallavi, alerted the police, who found the body in a pool of blood. Authorities are investigating, questioning family members, and exploring possible threats to his life that Prakash had previously reported to associates.

India celebrates a monumental achievement as UNESCO includes the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra in its Memory of the World Register. Prime Minister Modi hailed this as a proud moment, recognizing the timeless wisdom and rich cultural heritage embodied in these texts.

The government is likely to file a review petition against the Supreme Court's judgement that set a timeframe for the President and governors to decide on assenting to state bills. The government may also challenge the apex court's order allowing states to directly approach it if the President withholds assent.

Former Indian cricketer Kedar Jadhav has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Mumbai. Jadhav, who retired from all forms of cricket in June 2024, expressed his admiration for PM Modi and CM Devendra Fadnavis' achievements, stating his desire to contribute to the BJP. He represented India in 73 ODIs and nine T20Is, scoring 1,389 runs and 122 runs respectively.

China accused the US of protectionism and economic bullying with new tariffs, calling on American companies to act against them. In retaliation, China imposed its own tariffs and countermeasures, while urging US businesses to stabilize global supply chains despite the economic tensions.

India and Sri Lanka signed a landmark defence cooperation pact for the first time, along with agreements to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub and boost aid to Sri Lankas eastern region. PM Modi and President Dissanayake also inaugurated the Sampur solar project. Modi was given a rare ceremonial welcome at Colombos Independence Square ahead of the high-level talks.

India and the US are keen to expedite negotiations for a proposed bilateral trade agreement aimed at promoting two-way commerce. The agreement seeks to increase market access, cut tariffs, and deepen supply chain integration, while addressing the recently imposed 27% US import duty on Indian goods.

India plans to carefully observe the impact of new US import duties on global trade rather than acting hastily. Government sources highlight that while some Indian export sectors may face challenges, others could benefit as competitors encounter higher tariffs. The commerce ministry is currently analyzing potential impacts and engaging with stakeholders.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font began discussions on a comprehensive economic partnership to boost bilateral ties, with a focus on trade and defence. Modi highlighted areas like critical minerals, resilient supply chains, and digital infrastructure. Chile is seen as a gateway to Antarctica, and India's expertise in renewable energy, railways, and space will be shared.

Amid concerns over US tariffs, a report by Motilal Oswal suggests India could strengthen its domestic industries. Increased tariffs raise costs and hurt exports, but they also present an opportunity to boost local production and reduce reliance on foreign goods. Strategic use of import duties and improved trade agreements could mitigate the impact and stimulate economic growth.

Fareed Zakaria suggests that a special trade deal between India and the US could benefit India by reducing tariffs, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and growth. He emphasizes the importance of India integrating into the global economy through broader deregulation and investing in futuristic technologies with western partners.

Analysts worry about Palantir Technologies' sustainability of its explosive growth. With AI-powered platforms and extensive government contracts, the company's high valuation may pose risks if investor excitement diminishes.

Fifteen-year-old Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi reached the semi-finals of the WTA 125 Mumbai Open, showcasing resilience and skill. Alongside her, other Indian hopefuls like 17-year-old Manas Dhamne bring fresh promise to Indian tennis. The need is for supportive development without undue pressure.

Elon Musk has not yet submitted the mandatory financial disclosure form required of high-level government officials. Nearly three weeks after his appointment, his financial details have not been made public. The White House asserted that Musk has complied with federal laws, but has not confirmed if the form has been filed.

Some advocates of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are re-evaluating their approach due to backlash. They emphasize differentiating between beneficial and harmful DEI. Recent shifts suggest a move from divisive practices to promoting meritocracy and equality. This response could result in more effective and inclusive DEI initiatives despite ongoing disputes and criticisms.