The Times of India

India's defense capabilities are being bolstered with the US approval of a USD 198.2 million deal for Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopter support. This acquisition complements the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter 'Prachand', designed for high-altitude operations. Both helicopters serve distinct strategic roles, enhancing India's defense against evolving regional threats and modernizing its air force.

CPRG was also the only Indian non-governmental organisation to host an official side event at the Paris AI Action Summit 2025, and its work has been recognised at the Belgrade GPAI Summit 2024.

Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized Rahul Gandhi, stating the Congress will continue to decline under his leadership. Prasad accused Gandhi of making shameful remarks against India abroad and questioned his understanding of issues. These comments were made at a BJP training camp in Patna, which also featured discussions on party history and government coordination.

Future conflicts will span multiple domains including land, sea, air, cyberspace, and cognitive warfare, Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan stated at the inauguration of a defence manufacturing complex in Shirdi. He emphasized that technological advancements like AI and drones are reshaping battlefields, which will extend beyond geographical limits into digital realms.

Sonam Wangchuk, calling himself an honorary cockroach, lauded the satirical Cockroach Janata Party movement, urging the government to heed youth concerns instead of suppressing digital dissent. He likened the campaign's creative, non-violent approach to political cartoons, advocating for engagement over censorship to prevent frustration from escalating.

Social media's pervasive influence is reshaping childhood, impacting attention spans, emotional regulation, and self-esteem among Indian youth. Experts and parents highlight concerns over digital addiction, cyberbullying, and the erosion of real-world interactions. While acknowledging its benefits, the article stresses the need for balanced, mindful usage and open communication to navigate this digital landscape.

The West Bengal government has rescheduled the Id-Ud-Zoha (Bakrid) public holiday to May 28, 2026, cancelling previous dates. Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court upheld the state's notification restricting the slaughter of certain animals ahead of the festival, citing Supreme Court rulings.

India and Cyprus elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, aiming to boost bilateral investments in sectors like defense and tourism. This move strengthens Cyprus's defense capabilities and positions it as a key European entry point for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, countering regional geopolitical challenges.

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the viral Cockroach Janta Party, announced their website was taken down, accusing the BJP-led Centre of dictatorial behavior. Dipke claimed nearly 10 lakh people had joined the satirical platform, with 6 lakh signing a petition for the Education Minister's resignation over the NEET-UG controversy.

Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan clarified a viral home-from-work slip-up, explaining he meant work from home while discussing PM Modi's appeal amid rising fuel costs. He expressed bewilderment at his statements becoming internet sensations, stating he's just a human who makes mistakes like anyone else.

Following Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's Delhi visit, the Centre has approved Rs 39,000 crore for West Bengal's water resources ministry schemes. Prime Minister Modi pledged support for central projects and economic development, aiming to boost welfare initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and rural employment. Discussions also covered border security with Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Delhi High Court strongly criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its stance on Vinesh Phogat's Olympic 2024 disqualification, calling it a ational shame. The court vowed to ensure Phogat's participation in upcoming Asian Games trials, deeming WFI's selection policy absolutely retrograde and potentially discriminatory.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced sharp criticism from Congress for a third fuel price hike in ten days, with the party labeling him Mehengai Man Modi. Accusations claim the government prioritizes oil companies over citizens, raising petrol and diesel prices again. This move, impacting ordinary people, contrasts with global relief efforts, sparking concerns about benefiting capitalists.

Congress MP Vivek Tankha has alerted the government to soaring airfares impacting Indian workers in the Gulf. He urged ministers to make travel affordable for the summer vacation period, citing that current fixed travel allowances are insufficient. Millions of families are now unable to reunite annually due to the doubled costs, creating a significant economic burden.

Global powers are now vying for India's attention, recognizing its growing influence. While the US seeks to bolster trade, India has been actively forging significant trade agreements, positioning itself as a reliable and indispensable partner in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Nivesh Karki, executive director and co-founder of Pioneer Adventure, the expedition agency handling the dead climbers, said, They fell ill while descending at high altitude. We are working out how to retrieve the bodies.