The Times of India

Farmers in Punjab protested the proposed India-US trade agreement, fearing it will harm domestic agriculture, labourers, and small traders. Burning effigies of leaders, they demanded the pact's cancellation, citing concerns over increased imports and unfair competition from subsidized American farmers. This opposition echoes past farm law debates, with calls for MSP guarantees and irrigation reforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged states to implement e-Zero FIRs for cybercrime victims, aiming to prevent further harassment and financial loss. He emphasized the need for swift action, better coordination among agencies, and public awareness to combat rising digital fraud. The PM also reviewed progress on the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and stressed efficient infrastructure project planning using the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan.

Government has scrapped early completion bonuses for highway projects in hilly regions to prioritize quality construction. New mandates require slopes to withstand a monsoon before final road work begins. Stricter geological checks and slope monitoring are now compulsory, with payments tied to stability measures. This aims to curb landslides and ensure safer, more durable infrastructure in sensitive terrains.

According to sources, legal and constitutional experts attached to Parliament are currently examining the matter and are expected to provide their recommendations before a final decision is taken. Previous rulings by presiding officers in comparable situations are also being studied to ensure any decision is legally and constitutionally sound. Apart from the rebel factions of the TMC and Shiv Sena (UBT), the DMK has also sought a separate seating arrangement following the collapse of its long-st

India's junior space minister Jitendra Singh urged BRICS nations to forge a Brics Space Economy, emphasizing collective ambition for global economic growth. The meeting, attended by 10 countries, focused on utilizing the Brics Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation for socio-economic benefits and ensuring sustainable space activities. Discussions also covered co-development and co-creation to address global challenges and foster shared prosperity.

The BJP has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of echoing Pakistan's propaganda regarding the Rafale jets during Operation Sindoor. The party highlighted a recent IAF tender for support for all 36 Rafale jets as proof that Pakistan's claims of shooting them down were false. BJP leaders argue Gandhi questioned the Indian government instead of demanding evidence from Islamabad, thereby legitimizing an adversary's disinformation campaign.

Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann faces a political storm over an alleged Rs 10 lakh deal for a forensic report on a viral video. The BJP accuses Mann of suppressing allegations of sacrilegious conduct and misusing state machinery. Gurugram Police have detained two individuals in connection with fabricating the report, with the CM denying the video's authenticity and calling it a conspiracy.

Indian citizens are recommended to delay any non-essential trips to Iran, even with advancements in diplomatic relations. While the Indian Embassy in Tehran recognizes a positive shift in security, it stresses the need for caution amidst rapidly changing regional circumstances. Nationals residing in Iran should remain alert and adhere to local guidance.

India has firmly rejected Pakistan's attempt to politicize a UN forum by raising the Kashmir issue. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter for India, emphasizing that such discussions are inappropriate. He also highlighted India's push for reviewing UN Security Council mandates for greater efficiency, aligning with the UN-80 framework.

A fire erupted in labour slums near Delhi's Udyog Bhawan on Wednesday, originating from an electric panel and spreading to temporary structures. Around 20 fire tenders battled the blaze, bringing it under control by 5:30 am. No casualties have been reported. This incident follows a major slum fire behind Maulana Azad Medical College days earlier, which involved residential areas and storage facilities, including plywood, leading to rapid fire spread.

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