Royal Challengers Bengaluru Clinch Maiden IPL Title; Victory Parade Today!
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ended their 18-year wait by winning their first IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a thrilling final. Virat Kohli top-scored with 43 as RCB posted 190/9, and Krunal Pandya's crucial 2/17 helped restrict PBKS. Celebrations include a meeting with the Karnataka CM and an open-top bus victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru today, allowing fans to join.
US Commerce Secretary Signals Imminent India-US Trade Deal
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expressed strong optimism for an India-US trade deal in the near future, stating both nations have found a "very good place" for agreement. He highlighted ongoing discussions to reduce India's high tariffs in exchange for market access for US businesses. Lutnick noted India's positive steps, such as shifting military purchases towards the US and addressing concerns over initiatives like a BRICS currency, fostering a stronger bilateral relationship.
Punjab Man Arrested for Sharing Army Secrets with Pakistan's ISI
Punjab Police arrested Gagandeep Singh from Tarn Taran for allegedly sharing sensitive information about Indian Army movements during "Operation Sindoor" with Pakistan's ISI. He was reportedly in contact with Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter Gopal Singh Chawla and received payments for espionage. A mobile phone containing classified data and details of over 20 ISI contacts was recovered. An FIR under the Official Secrets Act has been registered as investigations continue into the espionage network.
PM Modi Assures Full Central Support for Flood-Ravaged Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi telephoned Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to assess the severe flood situation in the state, assuring complete support from the Central government for relief and rehabilitation efforts. Continuous rainfall has inundated large areas, impacting over 5.35 lakh people across more than 20 districts and claiming 11 lives due to floods and landslides. Sarma briefed the PM on the ongoing relief operations undertaken by the state government.
Allahabad High Court Upholds Rs 273.5 Crore GST Penalty on Patanjali Ayurved
The Allahabad High Court dismissed Patanjali Ayurved Limited's petition challenging a Rs 273.5 crore GST penalty. The court affirmed that tax authorities can impose penalties under Section 122 of the GST Act through civil proceedings, without requiring criminal trials. The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) had accused Patanjali of "circular trading of tax invoices only on paper without actual supply of goods," leading to the substantial penalty.
Ayodhya's Ram Temple Aglow for Ram Darbar Pran Pratishtha
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple in Ayodhya has been vibrantly illuminated ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony for the Ram Darbar, scheduled from June 3 to June 5. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to attend the Saryu Jayanti Janmotsav celebrations in Ayodhya on June 5. Concurrently, local authorities have initiated measures to ban meat sales along key religious routes like Ram Path, with discussions on a liquor ban also underway.
Indian-Origin Man Critical in Australia After Police Arrest During Street Argument
Gaurav Kundi, a 42-year-old Indian-origin man, is on life support in Adelaide, Australia, with severe brain and neck injuries following a police arrest. The incident occurred when police intervened in a loud street argument between Kundi and his partner, Amritpal Kaur. While Kaur stated Kundi was drunk but not violent, she alleges excessive force by officers during the arrest. South Australia Police are investigating the circumstances, including a review of body camera footage.
Odisha Police Plan Extensive Security for Puri's Rath Yatra
Odisha Police are implementing massive security arrangements for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, commencing June 27. Measures include CCTV surveillance, K9 squads, robust traffic management, and enhanced patrolling to prevent stampedes and criminal activities, ensuring devotee safety. With numerous VVIPs, including Union ministers, expected to attend, authorities are coordinating closely for a smooth festival, which begins with the 'Snan Yatra' on June 11 and spans a fortnight.
Gukesh Triumphs Over Erigaisi, Climbs to Second at Norway Chess
Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh defeated compatriot Arjun Erigaisi in a tense Round 7 clash at the Norway Chess tournament, securing his first-ever classical game victory against Erigaisi. This win propelled Gukesh to sole second place with 11.5 points, just behind leader Fabiano Caruana (12.5 points) and ahead of Magnus Carlsen (11 points). Gukesh displayed remarkable resilience, turning a difficult position into a crucial victory with three rounds remaining.
US Second Lady Usha Vance Cherishes India Visit; Kids See PM Modi as "Grandfather"
US Second Lady Usha Vance fondly recalled her family's April visit to India as "the trip of a lifetime," sharing that her children immediately placed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the "grandfather category" and developed great affection for him. She highlighted a special moment when PM Modi gave her five-year-old a birthday present. Vance also noted the productive conversations between her husband, Vice President J D Vance, and PM Modi, which helped cement their personal relationship.
Your Cosmic Guide: Horoscope for June 3rd
Today's astrological forecast offers insights for all zodiac signs. Aries may blend business with pleasure, while Taurus feels creative. Gemini should guard against biased judgments. Cancer might face an unproductive day, but Leo's business ventures look promising. Virgo focuses on family harmony, Libra juggles contacts and opportunities. Scorpio is set to socialize, Sagittarius may enjoy an outing, Capricorn could be affected by minor issues, Aquarius faces a work deluge, and Pisces sees bright prospects.
India's Aviation Sector Soars to Third Globally, Fuels Job Growth
India's aviation industry has become the world's third-largest by passenger traffic, according to an IATA report. This rapid expansion signifies a major milestone for the nation's connectivity and economic development. The sector's growth has also been a significant job creator, contributing approximately 7.7 million jobs. This highlights the increasing global prominence and economic impact of Indian aviation.
China Condemns US Chip Controls and Visa Threats Amid Trade Tensions
China has strongly criticized recent U.S. actions, including export controls on AI chips and threats to student visas, labeling them discriminatory. Beijing also rejected U.S. claims of violating tariff agreements, stating Washington has imposed numerous restrictive measures. These exchanges escalate ongoing trade disputes between the two global powers, impacting technology sectors and international relations.
India Reports Four New COVID-19 Deaths; Active Cases Approach 4,000
India recorded four new COVID-19 fatalities, bringing the total deaths since January to 32. Active coronavirus cases in the country have risen to 3,961, with 203 new cases added in the latest update. Health Ministry data released on Monday indicates a continued, albeit low-level, presence of the virus, warranting ongoing vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines.
Sikkim Landslide: Three Dead, Six Security Personnel Missing Near Military Camp
A severe landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, struck a military camp at Chhaten in Sikkim on Sunday evening. At least three individuals have been confirmed dead, and six security personnel are currently missing. Rescue operations are underway in the affected area. The incident highlights the dangers posed by extreme weather events in mountainous regions, particularly for military installations.