The Times of India

India has strongly criticized Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's reported remarks telling Shias to go to Iran, labeling it as part of the systemic victimization of minorities. The MEA spokesperson highlighted the shrinking minority numbers in Pakistan as evidence of decades of fear and oppression by the state.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, highlighting the state's development progress and seeking support for key infrastructure and connectivity projects. Dhami extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to visit Uttarakhand and presented him with local specialties. The meeting also covered initiatives in tourism, spiritual economy, and entrepreneurship.

Rajnath Singh will lead a new inter-ministerial group addressing the Middle East conflict's impact. Union ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, and Hardeep Singh Puri are members. The group will focus on energy security, supply chains, and global order disruptions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced seven empowered groups to assess and mitigate economic effects.

National Conference MLAs protested the killing of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and US-Israel military actions in Iran within the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. The protest led to a scuffle with BJP MLAs, prompting an adjournment. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the conflict, stating regime change cannot be achieved through military bombardment.

The Indian Army is bolstering its armoured regiments with dedicated drone units, 'Shaurya Squadrons', to enhance surveillance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare. Recently tested in a realistic battle scenario, these units aim to significantly boost battlefield awareness and response times for tank formations. This move reflects lessons learned from global drone-centric conflicts.

The Supreme Court has ruled that vague and unsupported allegations are insufficient to initiate criminal proceedings, quashing a dowry harassment case against an elderly couple. The bench emphasized that citizens must be vigilant about their rights and take timely action, especially in matrimonial disputes, as delays can cast aspersions on a case.

The Supreme Court ruled that if a private vehicle is requisitioned by a district administration and meets with an accident, the government, not the insurance company, is liable for compensation. The court stated that the owner is divested of custody and control during requisition, making the requisitioning authority responsible for incidents.

Elderly individuals, especially those frail or with limited life expectancy, may no longer need all their long-term medications. A global review suggests carefully stopping some drugs can be safe, reducing risks like falls and confusion. Doctors emphasize a shift towards patient-centered care, where medication reduction, when supervised, can improve well-being and energy levels.

Iran has permitted India to use the Strait of Hormuz, allowing 20 Indian cargo vessels and 18 LPG tankers to pass. This decision, following diplomatic efforts by India, eases concerns about energy supply disruptions. Iran stated that ships linked to its adversaries will be denied passage through the strategic waterway.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the global challenge of social media's adverse effects on children. He also discussed the significant global impact of the West Asia conflict, asserting India's strong economic position. Vaishnaw criticized the opposition for what he termed a low level of political discourse. He stated that India's growth story remains robust.

India is actively participating in global discussions for 6G technology standards, a significant shift from previous generations. Communication Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted India's new role as a partner in setting international telecom standards. The Bharat 6G Alliance, formed in 2024, now boasts 85 members, underscoring the nation's commitment to shaping future communication networks.

The government has ruled out restrictions on petrol and diesel sales, assuring citizens of ample oil and gas availability and robust import arrangements. Despite global fuel use curbs and misinformation-driven queues, India's petroleum and LPG supply remains secure and under control, with reserves and ongoing procurements ensuring uninterrupted dispensing at all retail outlets.

Prime Minister Modi is set to convene a video conference with Chief Ministers, excluding those from poll-bound states, to assess national readiness for potential disruptions stemming from the West Asia conflict. The Team India spirit will guide discussions on energy supply concerns and preparedness, with the cabinet secretariat to engage excluded states separately.

India's diplomatic prowess in West Asia is highlighted by its ability to engage all parties in the conflict, according to Minister Kiren Rijiju. He emphasized that the nation's safe passage of ships and high-level dialogues with global leaders demonstrate its active role, countering claims of being a bystander.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the media's crucial role in fostering public awareness and national unity at the Times Now Summit 2026. He emphasized that platforms like Times Group are vital in informing citizens, shaping discourse, and amplifying India's global voice.

Congress criticized the Modi government's foreign policy, stating that he self-styled Vishwaguru's diplomacy has transformed a roken country into a broker country. The party spokesperson highlighted India's extreme embarrassment and regional diplomacy setback as Pakistan emerges as a mediator in the West Asia war, despite its history of terrorism and nuclear proliferation.

The Supreme Court has cautioned high courts against granting bail in dowry death cases, deeming a Patna High Court order unsustainable. The bench emphasized the gravity of dowry deaths, a social evil causing thousands of women's unnatural deaths, and directed the accused husband to surrender.

Foreign airlines are boosting India routes as Gulf carriers scale back operations. SWISS is adding a second daily flight to Delhi, while British Airways will offer a third daily service from Delhi and Mumbai. These expansions aim to satisfy robust travel demand, with airlines reallocating capacity due to the evolving West Asia situation.

Domestic air travel is poised for a significant price increase this summer, mirroring international flight costs. A 12% reduction in weekly domestic flights, coupled with the removal of fare caps and anticipated Aviation Turbine Fuel hikes, will drive up ticket prices. Only financially robust airlines are expected to maintain operations as demand and operating costs fluctuate.

Poll inducements worth over Rs 400 crore have been seized across poll-bound states and UTs since February 26. This includes significant amounts of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies. Tamil Nadu leads with the highest seizure value, as the Election Commission reviews poll readiness and deploys enforcement teams.

Over 140 legal professionals and activists have urged President Murmu to reject the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026. They argue the bill, passed hastily, violates constitutional rights by removing the right to self-perceived gender identity and introducing a medical board for identity certificates, potentially excluding marginalized transgender individuals from essential protections.

Delhi leads national parties in donations for FY 2024-25, contributing Rs 2,639.4 crore. Maharashtra and Gujarat follow with significant contributions. The Association for Democratic Reforms report highlights a substantial increase in total donations, with corporate entities being the primary source.

CBI has registered a bank fraud case against former Reliance Telecom directors Satish Seth and Gautam Doshi, along with public servants, following a complaint by State Bank of India. The alleged fraud amounts to Rs 115 crore. Searches were conducted at the directors' residences, and documents related to loan transactions were recovered.

China's envoy to India, Xu Feihong, asserted that India and China's progress stems from their people's efforts, not external aid, subtly countering US remarks. He urged win-win cooperation and cautioned against those seeking to sow discord between the neighbours. Xu also highlighted the need for China and India to champion developing nations amidst rising global challenges.

Fugitive jeweller Nirav Modi has lost his final bid to reopen his extradition appeal in London. Judges expressed concern over the use of 'proscribed treatment' to obtain confessions in India, but stated they would have reopened the appeal were it not for government assurances. Modi now faces extradition within a month, with limited avenues for further legal challenge.

J&K police's economic offences wing raided three locations in Srinagar and Budgam in connection with an alleged fraud. Two men are accused of issuing fake medical procurement orders and impersonating government officials to siphon off funds during the Covid-19 pandemic. A Delhi-based firm filed a complaint alleging deceitful inducement for medical supplies, leading to the recovery of evidence.

In Shopian's Hirapora village, 55-year-old Ulfat Bano has been Kashmir's first postwoman for over three decades, delivering mail on foot through challenging terrain and harsh winters. Despite the physical toll, her passion for connecting people fuels her dedication. She finds immense satisfaction in bringing good news and parcels to her community, viewing her work as a vital service.

Counter Intelligence Kashmir busted a terror recruitment module with links to handlers across the LoC and Bangladesh. Raids across three districts yielded incriminating materials. A Bangladesh-based LeT operative, Shabir Ahmad Lone, allegedly coordinated recruitment and network expansion, operating as a most wanted terrorist from abroad. An associate was previously arrested.

Appearing defiant in London, Nirav Modi testified in a civil trial, denying owing Bank of India over $10.7 million. He claimed banks, CBI, and ED destroyed his 20-year business, asserting no fraud against Punjab National Bank. Modi alleged PNB colluded with CBI, leading to an FIR without his input, and ED's actions halted his operations.

Karnataka's finances are strained by welfare schemes, forcing cuts in other programs. The CAG report reveals Rs 52,525 crore spent on five guarantee schemes, consuming a significant portion of revenue and necessitating increased borrowing. This fiscal pressure impacts capital expenditure and raises concerns about future growth and debt servicing obligations.

The CPI(M) has fiercely criticized Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for targeting the Left in Kerala, accusing the Congress of aiding the BJP for electoral gains. The party stated that Congress leaders are abandoning their fight against communal forces by focusing on the CPI(M) instead of the BJP, questioning the Congress's own defections to the BJP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the G7 summit in France from June 15-17. This confirmation came during high-level talks where India's crucial role in addressing global economic issues and fostering solidarity was highlighted. Discussions also centered on the Middle East, with both nations agreeing to coordinate on securing the vital Strai of Hormuz.

A 28-year-old woman was brutally murdered by her husband, Akshay, who slit her throat on a road in Kalaburagi district, Karnataka, after a domestic dispute. Bystanders captured the horrific incident on video, which has since circulated on social media. The accused fled the scene, and a manhunt is underway.

Security forces are intensifying operations nationwide to neutralize remaining Maoist cadres by the March 31 deadline. Efforts include tracking approximately 130-150 armed Naxals and encouraging surrenders, with significant troop movements and cross-border operations underway. The Centre is also planning a post-operation development blueprint.

A Karnataka MLA sparked a controversy by alleging that legislators are denied entitled IPL passes, forced into queues, and face inflated ticket prices due to alleged black marketing by KSCA. The Assembly Speaker has now directed the government to ensure MLAs receive VIP tickets, addressing concerns of disrespect and indignity.

The BJP received over 91% of declared donations above Rs 20,000 by national parties in FY25, totaling Rs 6,074 crore. Overall political funding surged 161% to Rs 6,648 crore, with corporate donations dominating. The BJP's collections alone jumped 171% from the previous fiscal year.

A simple stool test could soon revolutionize chronic diarrhoea diagnosis in India. Researchers found measuring bile acids in one sample accurately identifies bile acid malabsorption, a commonly missed condition. This accessible test, with high accuracy, could help millions suffering from undiagnosed BAM, offering targeted treatment and improved quality of life.

India and Serbia held the 9th Round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Belgrade, Serbia on Wednesday.