The Times of India

111 districts identified as the most vulnerable due to low irrigation footprints.

Union Minister Amit Shah has directed Nafed and NCCF to procure all pulses and oilseeds directly from farmers, eliminating middlemen and ensuring payments within 48 hours. This initiative aims to guarantee fair prices, boost pulse cultivation, and achieve self-reliance. Shah also announced a two-year deadline for this direct farmer-to-organization sales model and highlighted Nafed's new digital auction platform, scholarship program, and inventory management tools.

President Droupadi Murmu presented Padma Awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan, honouring 65 distinguished individuals. The ceremony recognized achievements across various fields, including arts, sports, and medicine. Notable recipients included actor Mammootty, singer Alka Yagnik, and cricketer Rohit Sharma. Dr. Padma Gurmet, awarded for his work in preserving Himalayan medical traditions, expressed immense pride for his community.

The BJP is actively reshaping Bengal's historical narrative, emphasizing Syama Prasad Mookerjee's role in the state's Partition. By designating June 20 as West Bengal Day and celebrating Mookerjee's legacy, the party aims to correct perceived historical neglect. Critics argue this selective focus distorts a complex past, overlooking the broader political forces and human cost of Partition.

During the legal proceedings, Telegram faced accusations of failing to adequately curb misinformation spread through its channels, allegations the company has rejected. While the ban was lifted on Tuesday, users will remain unable to access the platform's message-editing feature until June 30. India is Telegram's largest market with more than 150 million users.

A tragic incident has unfolded in Uttar Pradesh, where a 19-year-old NEET aspirant reportedly took her own life after the re-test of the exam. Found unconscious at home by her family, she was pronounced dead in the hospital. A NEET question booklet accompanied by a handwritten note was discovered at the scene, prompting police to secure the material for forensic examination.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval expressed 'cautious optimism' regarding the US-Iran MoU, hoping it restores regional stability and strengthens energy security. He highlighted the potential for easing global supply chain disruptions and improving economic prosperity through the Strait of Hormuz. Doval also addressed the world's complex security landscape and the weakening of multilateral institutions, emphasizing BRICS' role in fostering a multipolar order and cooperation among emerg

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval engaged in crucial bilateral talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iranian security official Ghadir Nezamipour during the BRICS NSA conclave in New Delhi. Discussions focused on normalizing India-China ties and the West Asian security situation. The expanded BRICS bloc grappled with geopolitical tensions and differing member priorities, highlighting the forum's growing influence and challenges.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has sharply criticized Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde, accusing him of giving birth to traitors after six rebel Lok Sabha MPs joined Shinde's faction. Raut's remarks, including a reference to a Cesarean surgery, came as Shinde declared Operation Tiger complete following the induction of the MPs. This marks another significant split within the Uddhav Thackeray camp.

A tragic industrial accident at Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility has claimed at least 13 lives, including Indian nationals, and injured 66. The blast at the Barzan gas supply facility, ruled an accident, occurred Sunday night. Despite the incident, Qatar's energy minister assured that domestic needs and LNG exports remain unaffected, though repairs will take time.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Iran's deputy defense secretary Ghadir Nezamipour in New Delhi, discussing the Middle East's security landscape, BRICS cooperation, and bilateral ties. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers' Meeting, which India is hosting. Discussions also touched upon global challenges, terrorism, and the evolving nature of security threats.

A devastating fire swept through a coaching-cum-gaming zone in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of at least 12 young students. Fourteen fire tenders battled the blaze that erupted around 3 pm. While authorities are investigating the exact origin, the incident has sent shockwaves through the city, with many others reportedly injured in the tragedy.