Masato Hagiwara

NEET-UG 2026 exam has been cancelled by the National Testing Agency due to a massive "guess paper" leak, impacting over 22 lakh students. The government has ordered a CBI probe into the alleged irregularities. The re-examination dates will be announced soon, with existing registrations carrying forward. This decision aims to protect the integrity of the national examination system.

As mainstream parties grow wary of courting Muslim voters, debates within the community are becoming sharper. Can a new political platform give Muslims a stronger voice without falling into identity politics?

Tamil Nadu faces an AIADMK internal conflict as Vijay's new government prepares for a floor test. A faction led by CV Shanmugam pledged support to Vijay, defying party directives. Agri SS Krishnamurthy warned rebel MLAs of action, while OS Manian asserted 47 MLAs back Edappadi K Palaniswami. This rift highlights deep divisions within the AIADMK following recent poll performance.

Krunal Pandya continues to be a vital all-rounder for RCB in their IPL 2026 title defence, recently scoring a match-winning 73 despite severe cramps against Mumbai Indians. He also achieved his 100th IPL wicket and draws inspiration from Virat Kohli's unwavering intensity and dedication, having previously won Player of the Match in two IPL finals.

President Trump's China visit occurs amid a US-Iran stalemate, with analysts suggesting Xi Jinping holds more leverage. Many in Beijing view Trump as a symptom of liberal democracy's instability and American decline, validating Xi's "rise of the East" worldview. This perception of US weakness could lead China to miscalculate and test Washington.

Fuel, gold, edible oil, foreign travel, and fertilisers — how much do they cost India, and how much do they matter right now?

The FCC has extended the software update deadline for foreign-made drones and routers already in use across the US, pushing the cutoff from early 2027 to January 1, 2029. The waiver covers security patches, bug fixes, and compatibility updates for previously authorized devices on the agency's Covered List. New foreign-made models remain banned unless manufacturers secure conditional approval from the Department of Defense or Homeland Security.

India's retail inflation climbed to a 13-month high of 3.48% in April, primarily fueled by soaring food prices. Consumer Food Price Index accelerated to 4.20%, with rural inflation outpacing urban rates. While silver and gold jewellery saw significant price hikes, tomatoes surged, but potatoes and onions experienced deflation. This marks the second consecutive monthly rise, nearing the RBI's target.

Former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh stated that Vinesh Phogat's participation in wrestling trials is under the current WFI administration's purview. He defended his tenure, asserting the WFI never barred athletes without valid reasons. Phogat was declared ineligible by the WFI until 2026 due to ongoing disciplinary proceedings, a decision she disputes, citing international clearance.