Rocket integration for July launch of Chandrayaan-3 begins

India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has begun integrating the Launch Vehicle Mark-III for the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which is on track for a mid-July launch. The spacecraft will be assembled aboard the rocket at the beginning of next month. The mission consists of an indigenous lander module, a propulsion module, and a rover, and is aimed at developing and demonstrating new technologies required for interplanetary missions. The lander and rover will have scientific payloads to carry out experiments on the lunar surface.

Hizbul chief’s 2 sons in Tihar jail approach HC, say let us phone our family

Hizbul Mujahideen chief's sons in Tihar Jail petition Delhi High Court to restore phone call facility, claiming they've been unable to contact family for a year due to jail authorities' restrictions on high-risk inmates.

SC frees 6 murder accused 'with heavy heart' as 71 of 87 witnesses turn hostile

The Supreme Court acquitted six murder accused due to a lack of evidence, as 71 out of 87 witnesses, including the victim's son, turned hostile. The court criticized the prosecution's reliance on police testimonies and noted the trial court's original findings were more credible. The case highlighted issues with witness reliability and investigative practices.

On Tagore's birth anniversary, Mamata lauds armed forces protecting India

Kolkata Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee praised the Indian armed forces on Rabindranath Tagore's 164th birth anniversary, emphasizing prayers for soldiers and the nation. She honored Tagore's contributions to literature and nationalism, urging preservation of language and culture. Celebrations included cultural performances, recitations, and gatherings at Tagore's ancestral home, highlighting his enduring influence and ideals of universal brotherhood.

Mumbai attacks accused Tahawwur Rana remanded to Tihar Jail till June 6

A Delhi court has remanded 26/11 Mumbai attack suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana to Tihar Jail until June 6. His judicial custody follows a request from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which aims to interrogate him about potential future terror plots. Rana, linked to main conspirator David Coleman Headley, was extradited from the US after his legal appeals were denied.

Gujarat cancels leave for all state employees amid India-Pakistan tensions

In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan, the Gujarat government has canceled all leave for state officers and employees, effective immediately. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel emphasized preparedness in border districts, directing officials to ensure emergency services remain operational and to activate evacuation plans. He urged vigilance and coordination among security forces and stressed the importance of public safety measures and communication tools.

Rakesh Sharma says boundaries blur in space, astronauts see Earth as one entity

India's first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, emphasized the unifying perspective astronauts gain in space, viewing Earth as a single entity devoid of national boundaries. During the Global Space Exploration Conference, he noted environmental degradation's global impact, citing pollution's disregard for borders. Astronaut-designate Angad Pratap shared insights on training for India's upcoming Gaganyaan mission, highlighting the importance of global knowledge sharing in space exploration.

Scattered light rain, gusty winds tonight: IMD sounds yellow alert for Delhi

IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi, predicting scattered light rain and gusty winds up to 50 km/hr tonight. Western disturbance to continue till Saturday, with isolated rainfall and temperatures between 36-39°C expected.

CJI Khanna stresses on crisper petitions, says huge effort needed to master 'art of drafting'

Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna emphasized the importance of concise petitions in judicial proceedings, advocating for the "less is more" approach for clarity and efficiency. Speaking at his farewell, he encouraged young advocates to argue cases directly and highlighted the significance of factual knowledge. He also noted the growing role of mediation in the legal system.

Deep-rooted, systemic corruption network in key Tamil Nadu govt departments: ED

The Enforcement Directorate has uncovered a widespread corruption network involving consultants in Tamil Nadu government departments, seizing Rs 4.73 crore in unaccounted cash. Raids conducted in Chennai and Vellore revealed that consultants acted as middlemen, facilitating kickbacks for illegal approvals. Key individuals were identified, and evidence was destroyed by a consultant's employee. Further action will be pursued against those involved.

Waqf Amendment Act a step towards equity, empowerment: Arunachal Governor

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik praised the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 as a vital step towards empowering underprivileged communities. At a reform awareness meeting, he emphasized its role in ensuring Waqf revenues benefit those in need. Parnaik encouraged unity among all faiths and highlighted the importance of communal harmony for societal progress.

Maharashtra cancels leaves of top health, disaster officials amid India-Pakistan tensions

The Maharashtra government has canceled leaves for top officials in key departments due to rising tensions. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized preparedness, including mock drills and emergency funds for districts. Strict measures against fake news and security breaches were announced, with a focus on coastal security and coordination among agencies. Police and military remain on high alert following recent cross-border incidents.

What is Territorial Army? Centre empowers Army chief to mobilise reserve force amid India-Pakistan tensions

Centre authorizes Army chief to mobilize Territorial Army, a reserve force of civilian volunteers, amid India-Pakistan tensions. These part-time soldiers can be deployed in key military zones to support national defence during emergencies.

RSS lauds 'Operation Sindoor', says it stands united with armed forces

RSS supports "Operation Sindoor," praising government and armed forces for decisive action against Pakistan-backed terror after the Pahalgam attack. The organization calls for national unity, urging citizens to stay alert and cooperate with authorities during this critical time.

World Bank chief reacts to India's Indus Waters Treaty move: ‘No role to play beyond…’

World Bank president Ajay Banga dismisses speculation about intervention in India-Pakistan Indus Waters Treaty dispute, emphasizing the bank's limited facilitator role after India suspended the treaty following a terrorist attack in Kashmir.

Health ministry sets up 24x7 control room; Nadda chairs high-level review meeting

Health ministry establishes 24/7 control room to coordinate medical emergency preparedness amid India-Pakistan border tensions. Minister Nadda reviews hospital readiness, infrastructure, and communication protocols following recent military operation.