Pilgrims Throng Kashmir's Kheer Bhawani Mela, Undeterred by Regional Tensions
Thousands of pilgrims are converging at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district of Kashmir, for the annual Mela starting June 3, 2025. This significant religious gathering is proceeding with enthusiasm, undeterred by recent terror incidents in the region. The large turnout demonstrates the devotees' deep faith and resilience, highlighting a vibrant cultural tradition amidst security challenges in the Kashmir Valley.
US to Double Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum to 50%
US President Donald Trump announced plans to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, effective next week. This move aims to pressure global producers and escalates the ongoing trade war. Since Trump took office, US steel product prices have risen by approximately 16%. The decision is expected to further impact global steelmakers and international trade relations, casting a cloud over the industry.
India Sees COVID Surge; Delhi Reports First Death, States Issue Advisories
India is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases, reaching 2,710 active infections nationally. Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi are the most affected states, with Delhi reporting its first fatality in the current surge. The Karnataka government has advised parents to keep children with symptoms like fever or cough away from school. This resurgence prompts renewed caution and adherence to public health guidelines across the nation as schools reopen.
Colombia Retracts Statement on 'Operation Sindoor', Backs India's Anti-Terror Stance
Colombia has withdrawn an earlier statement that inadvertently expressed condolences over deaths in Pakistan related to 'Operation Sindoor'. Following discussions with an Indian parliamentary delegation led by Shashi Tharoor, Colombia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs announced the retraction. Colombia, citing its own past struggles with terrorism, now better understands India's position and will issue a statement of strong support for India's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.
'Operation Shield' Security Drills Conducted in States Bordering Pakistan
India conducted 'Operation Shield,' a series of civil defense mock drills, on Saturday across several states and Union Territories bordering Pakistan. This significant initiative aims to enhance national security preparedness and response capabilities in these strategically important regions. The drills focus on coordinating various agencies and ensuring readiness for potential security challenges, bolstering India's defense mechanisms along its western frontier.
Trump Again Claims Role in India-Pakistan De-escalation
Former US President Donald Trump has once again claimed credit for the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan. His remarks resurface amid ongoing discussions about the extent of international influence on the recent de-escalation efforts between the two South Asian nuclear powers. The claim highlights the complex diplomatic interplay and varying perspectives on what factors contributed to the reduction in tensions in the region.
Heavy Rains Cause Severe Waterlogging in Guwahati, Disrupting Life
Incessant heavy rainfall has led to massive waterlogging in Guwahati and other parts of Assam, severely disrupting daily life. The deluge, also affecting Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, has inundated large areas. In response, the Assam government has declared a special casual leave for government employees in Kamrup and Kamrup (Metro) districts, and ordered schools and colleges to remain shut, advising private establishments to take similar measures.
Eminent Tiger Conservationist Valmik Thapar Passes Away at 73
Valmik Thapar, one of India's most distinguished wildlife conservationists and authors, passed away at his residence at the age of 73. For nearly five decades, he was deeply involved in efforts to protect wild tigers, particularly in Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park. His extensive work and numerous books significantly contributed to tiger conservation awareness and policy in India, leaving a lasting legacy in wildlife protection.
Delhi Records Wettest May; IMD Issues Orange Alert Amid Unusual Weather
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi as the national capital experienced its wettest May on record. This unusual spell of weather, characterized by persistent rain and cooler temperatures, is reportedly linked to the early arrival of the monsoon in Mumbai, which has subsequently influenced weather patterns across northern India. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather advisories.
Air India Launches Daily Flights from Bengaluru to Kathmandu
Air India is set to commence daily flight operations between Bengaluru and Kathmandu, Nepal. This new route enhances connectivity between the South Indian tech hub and the Himalayan nation. Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, stated this initiative builds upon their recent expansion into short-haul international leisure markets, including popular destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, catering to growing travel demand.
Quarter Billion Honeybees Create Buzz After Truck Overturns in Washington State
Approximately 250 million honeybees caused quite a stir in northwestern Washington state after a commercial truck transporting their hives overturned. The vehicle, carrying an estimated 31,751 kilograms of honeybee hives, rolled over near the Canadian border. Emergency services and beekeepers were called to manage the unusual situation, which saw a massive cloud of bees temporarily take over the area, creating a memorable and "buzzworthy" incident.
PM Modi Launches ₹48,520 Crore Development Projects in Bihar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Bihar, is set to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for development projects worth ₹48,520 crore. The initiatives span various sectors, aiming to boost infrastructure and economic growth in the state. During his visit, which began Thursday, May 29, 2025, the Prime Minister will also address a public rally in Karakat, further outlining the government's development agenda for the region.
UN Lauds India's Peacekeeping Commitment; Two Soldiers Posthumously Honoured
The UN's top peacekeeping official, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, hailed India as a crucial supporter of global peacekeeping efforts, particularly its push for accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. Coinciding with this, two Indian peacekeepers, Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh, were posthumously honoured by the UN on International Day of UN Peacekeepers for their ultimate sacrifice while serving under the UN flag in 2024 in UNDOF and DR Congo respectively.
Tharoor "Disappointed" by Colombia's Stance on Pakistan Deaths Post-Operation Sindoor
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, leading an all-party parliamentary delegation to Colombia, expressed disappointment over the Colombian government's condolences for lives lost in Pakistan following "Operation Sindoor." Tharoor emphasized that there can be no equivalence between those who dispatch terrorists and nations defending themselves. He conveyed India's strong resolve to combat terrorism, highlighting the Pahalgam terror attack victims as the true focus for sympathy.
Man Arrested in Bihar for Allegedly Threatening PM Modi Via WhatsApp
A man has been arrested in Bihar for allegedly making a WhatsApp call threatening to kill Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the state. Police investigations suggest the accused may have used a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and another individual's mobile number, Mantu Chaudhary, to make the call. A property dispute between the accused and Chaudhary is suspected as a motive to falsely implicate him.