The Times of India

India's space regulator is offering full technology transfer for the reliable PSLV rocket to private firms, aiming to boost commercial launches. This follows a similar move for the SSLV. Despite delays in the first industry-built PSLV and SSLV, the government seeks an industry-driven launch ecosystem, signaling a major shift from ISRO's production model.

NTA chief Abhishek Singh told a parliamentary panel the NEET-UG 2026 paper didn't leak through their system, with the CBI now investigating. Officials presented reforms, noting 70% of Radhakrishnan Committee recommendations are implemented. Concerns over staff shortages and future computer-based testing were also raised during the meeting.

The Calcutta High Court has upheld the West Bengal government's restrictions on slaughtering certain animals ahead of Bakr Eid. The court found the notification aligned with previous directives, emphasizing that cow sacrifice isn't a mandatory Islamic practice. Authorities must now decide on exemptions within 24 hours, ensuring proper certification and infrastructure for any permitted slaughter.

Umar Khalid has approached the Delhi High Court seeking 15 days' interim bail to attend his uncle's Chehlum ceremony and care for his mother undergoing surgery. A trial court had previously denied his request, deeming the ceremony ot that necessary and suggesting other family members could assist.

India is pivoting towards Europe as traditional partnerships become unreliable. The burgeoning India-Italy relationship, spearheaded by Prime Ministers Modi and Meloni, is central to this strategy. This partnership is building crucial economic architecture, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and a potential EU Free Trade Agreement, positioning Europe as India's primary strategic focus.

Rahul Gandhi has demanded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET paper leak, accusing the Centre of neglecting student concerns. He pledged the Congress's continued fight for affected students, advocating for a robust examination system.

India's beloved chai faces unprecedented challenges. Climate stress, rising costs, and global conflicts are impacting tea production and exports, making your daily cup more expensive. Despite these pressures, the nation's deep emotional connection to tea, a symbol of hospitality and connection, ensures its enduring cultural significance.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party for using derogatory language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Goyal emphasized India's enhanced global reputation and robust strategic partnerships, citing strong ties with the US and significant investment deals secured during Prime Minister Modi's recent foreign visits. These engagements underscore India's growing influence and trusted partnership status worldwide.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that ime will decide his potential elevation to Chief Minister, amidst growing speculation of a leadership change in the state's Congress government. This comes as the Siddaramaiah-led government approaches a significant milestone, fueling discussions about a possible power-sharing arrangement.

Following the Madhya Pradesh High Court's verdict recognizing Dhar's Bhojshala complex as Goddess Vagdevi's temple, Hindu petitioners have filed new pleas. They are demanding free entry for devotees, further excavation, and the opening of a locked room, asserting the court's order necessitates unrestricted access and removal of 'unauthorised Islamic symbols'.

The notification, issued by the states Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department on Wednesday night and signed by chief secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal, said the restrictions are in line with provisions under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, the West Bengal Service (Duties, Rights and Obligations of Government Employees) Rules, 1980, and the West Bengal Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1959.

As part of the reshuffle, Vijay retained the Poverty Alleviation portfolio and reassigned the Women Welfare department, previously held by him, to newly inducted minister K Jegadeshwari. Congress leaders S Rajesh Kumar and P Viswanathan have been allotted the Tourism and Higher Education portfolios, respectively. Another TVK minister, Mohamed Farvas, has been allocated the Labour Welfare and Skill Development portfolio.

A controversy erupted in Tamil Nadu over the recitation order of national and state songs during a swearing-in ceremony. The DMK criticized the Vijay government for prioritizing 'Vande Mataram' over the Tamil invocation song, accusing them of disrespecting Tamil culture and adopting BJP's politics.

The NTA is set to roll out a refund portal this Thursday for students retaking NEET UG 2026, providing refunds that vary by category, though gateway fees are excluded. Re-examinations will occur on June 21 without any added costs.

Prime Minister Modi's recent five-nation tour saw him present world leaders with culturally rich Indian gifts. From Assam's golden Muga silk to Manipur's Shirui Lily stoles and Agra's marble inlay boxes, these presents showcased India's diverse traditional crafts, agricultural bounty, and musical heritage, fostering cultural exchange.

Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks in Rae Bareli, calling PM Modi and Amit Shah 'traitors' for allegedly selling India and attacking the Constitution, have sparked a police complaint by the BJP Yuva Morcha. Gandhi also criticized the government's economic policies and the Prime Minister's foreign visits amidst brewing economic challenges. BJP leaders condemned the statements, while the PDP questioned the outrage.

The cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 has thrown medical hopefuls into a state of uncertainty and anxiety. Responding to this crisis, the Faculty Association of AIIMS is advocating for urgent financial support for students and is demanding a rigorous investigation into the alleged paper leaks.

Rahul Gandhi paid tribute to his father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, on his 35th death anniversary, vowing to fulfill his vision for a strong and prosperous India. Senior Congress leaders also paid homage at Vir Bhumi, remembering Rajiv Gandhi's contributions to modernizing India through technological and educational reforms.