The Times of India

A comparative test of leading AI models on actual UPSC Prelims papers reveal how closely modern systems can mirror human-level preparation, handling history and polity well but struggling with precise current affairs and technical distinctions that often decide exam outcomes.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari urged authorities to expedite the deportation of alleged illegal Bangladeshi nationals gathered at the Hakimpur checkpoint. He emphasized the state's 'detect, delete and deport' policy, aiming to remove infiltrators and protect Indian citizens.

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani urged Muslims to avoid sacrificing prohibited animals and advised caution during Eid-ul-Azha. He suggested consulting authorities if buffalo sacrifice faces obstruction and to avoid social media displays of slaughtered animals. Former VP Hamid Ansari echoed Madani's call to not slaughter cows and proposed declaring the cow the national animal.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to block Karnataka's Mekedatu dam project, citing a Supreme Court violation. Stalin emphasized safeguarding state rights and farmers' welfare, following Karnataka's deputy chief minister's announcement of submitting the Detailed Project Report soon. This dispute over Cauvery river water is a long-standing issue.

The government has formed a high-level committee to investigate demographic shifts in India, driven by illegal immigration and other unnatural causes. Chaired by retired Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naoleker, the panel will assess population changes, analyze abnormal shifts across communities, and propose solutions. This initiative follows Prime Minister Modi's concerns about demographic changes impacting national security and social structures.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced the successful evacuation of 300 tourists stranded in Gulmarg's cable car after a technical glitch halted the Gondola service. A joint operation involving the Indian Army, police, and disaster response teams efficiently rescued everyone. The incident occurred on Monday, suspending both phases of the popular tourist attraction.

Foreign medical graduates and states facing internship seat shortages have received a significant reprieve. The National Medical Commission has extended permission for internships in recognised non-teaching hospitals until May 2028, addressing concerns over limited capacity and delays. This move aims to ease the crisis for thousands of graduates awaiting crucial training and registration opportunities across various states.

As the five-year tenure of Uttar Pradesh's gram panchayats wraps up on Tuesday, the state government steps in by designating outgoing gram pradhans as interim administrators. This adjustment, effective May 27, paves the way for uninterrupted village leadership until new elections rollout in 2026.

The CBI has taken over the Twisha Sharma death case investigation following a Supreme Court directive. A team has arrived in Bhopal to begin the probe, with the apex court also ordering both families to refrain from media interviews. Meanwhile, the Madhya Pradesh High Court will hear challenges to the anticipatory bail granted to the mother-in-law on May 27.

Airlines flying to India from Ebola hotspots like DRC and Uganda must now ensure passengers complete self-declaration forms before arrival. Thermal screening will be conducted, and symptomatic individuals will be seated at the rear of the aircraft. This proactive measure aims to prevent potential Ebola transmission, mirroring past COVID-19 protocols.

Iran's Hyderabad Consulate criticized US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Taj Mahal visit, asserting Iranian architects built the monument while the US threatens Iranian civilization. This follows Rubio's India trip and comes after Iran rejected his energy market claims. The consulate's remarks also alluded to past US threats during regional conflicts.

IFFCO honored women achievers from Jammu & Kashmir and Gujarat for the first time at its 55th AGM, recognizing their contributions to agriculture and women's empowerment. The cooperative reported a profit of Rs 4,585 crore and announced employee incentives, including a minimum wage of Rs 20,000 for lower-level staff.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has approached the Delhi High Court challenging the Centre's blocking of the group's social media accounts. The satirical movement, which gained viral traction discussing unemployment and exam leaks, saw its X account suspended on national security grounds. Dipke also alleged hacking of other accounts.

Tamil Nadu's political landscape is shaken as three AIADMK MLAs resigned, reportedly joining the ruling TVK party. Both DMK and AIADMK leaders have accused the Vijay-led government of horse-trading and orchestrating defections within the Secretariat. These resignations deepen the AIADMK's internal rifts and necessitate by-elections.

India's economy faces pressure from the US-Iran conflict, impacting fuel prices, fertiliser subsidies, and forex reserves, Finance Minister Sitharaman warned. Meanwhile, West Bengal opened its first holding centre for suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals. In Karnataka, a leadership decision for the Congress is imminent, while Iran demands $12 billion in frozen assets before US talks.

President Droupadi Murmu presented 66 Padma awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Violinist N Rajam received Padma Vibhushan. Actor Dharmendra was honored posthumously with Padma Vibhushan. Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee received Padma Shri. The ceremony recognized distinguished service in various fields. A total of 131 Padma awards were approved for 2026.

West Bengal's BJP government has launched its 'detect, delete and deport' policy, opening a holding center in Malda for illegal foreign nationals. Nine suspected Bangladeshi nationals are currently housed there, awaiting verification and legal procedures. This initiative aims to streamline the deportation process for apprehended individuals, as mandated by a new national law.

A Karnataka leadership change decision is imminent within days following crucial Congress meetings. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with party leaders amid ongoing speculation about a potential shift. Discussions also covered Rajya Sabha and MLC polls, and a minor cabinet reshuffle has already occurred, with portfolios being reassigned.

The Supreme Court has emphasized that girls must not abandon education due to a lack of sanitary napkins and functional, gender-segregated toilets in schools. The Centre has been directed to ensure effective implementation of its previous orders, urging states to provide free sanitary pads and adequate toilet facilities for all students.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump, stating they share a similarity in destruction which fuels their mutual praise. This comes after Trump expressed his love for PM Modi and India during a call to the US ambassador in New Delhi.

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered swift action on sexual crime cases following a horrific incident in Coimbatore. He directed police to expedite investigations, ensure severe punishment for culprits and implement precautionary measures. The directive comes amid rising criticism over the state's law and order situation, with opposition leaders highlighting recent murders and assaults.