Times of India

India is intensifying its efforts to financially isolate Pakistan, contesting World Bank loans and urging the FATF to reinstate it on the grey list. This follows India's opposition to the IMF bailout, citing concerns about Pakistan's economic history and potential misuse of funds for terrorism.

Rahul Gandhi's criticism of India's foreign policy under Modi sparked a political row, questioning India's global standing post Operation Sindoor. BJP retaliated, accusing Gandhi of undermining the nation and armed forces. The MEA refuted Gandhi's claim about warning Pakistan before the operation, clarifying it was during the early phase. Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concerns over the increasing number of student suicides in Kota's coaching centers, questioning the Rajasthan government's response. "What are you doing as a state? Why are these children dying by suicide and only in Kota? Have you not given a thought as a state?” Justice Pardiwala asked the Rajasthan government.

In a significant blow to Maoist insurgency, four Maoists were killed in an encounter with police along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border in Gadchiroli. This operation follows the elimination of top Maoist leader Basavaraju and 26 guerrillas in Chhattisgarh. Government sources suggest that with Basavaraju's death, the end of red terror, targeted by March 2026, may come sooner.

In Mumbai, a woman has been booked for allegedly abetting her husband's suicide following a complaint by his father. The deceased, Siddhesh Ratne, reportedly faced mental harassment and infidelity from his wife, Manasi, and her alleged accomplices, Yuvraj Jadhav and Aarti Shivgan.

Indian authorities are investigating around 20 export houses suspected of laundering money to Pakistan via the UAE. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is scrutinizing dubious transactions involving inflated prices for goods like jewellery and electrical components

Gautam Gambhir has addressed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Test retirements, terming them personal decisions deserving respect. Speaking before the England tour starting June 20, Gambhir acknowledged the void but highlighted the chance for younger players to step up. He referenced India's Champions Trophy win without Bumrah, emphasising the team's ability to succeed despite senior players' absence.

Amit Shah asserted a change in India's security approach. He mentioned past provocations from Pakistan. Previous governments did not give appropriate responses. Post 2014, India retaliated strongly after attacks like Uri and Pulwama. Surgical strikes and airstrikes targeted terror infrastructure. Shah highlighted Operation Sindoor as a response to the Pahalgam attack.

Outrage is brewing in Karnataka's Haveri district after seven men, accused in a gang-rape case from January 2024, celebrated their release on bail with a public victory procession. The celebration followed the court granting bail due to the survivor's inability to identify the accused during a recent hearing.

Amidst rising tensions stemming from perceived support for Pakistan, wealthy Indian families and NRIs are increasingly avoiding Turkey and Azerbaijan for weddings and corporate events. This shift has led to the rescheduling or relocation of several high-profile events, impacting the region's event industry. Destinations like the UAE, Rajasthan, and particularly Bahrain, are gaining popularity as alternatives.

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar faced severe turbulence and a hailstorm. The pilots navigated challenging conditions after encountering bad weather near Pathankot. They were denied permission to deviate from their course. The crew manually flew the aircraft after autopilot disengaged. The plane landed safely in Srinagar with a damaged nose cone.

Lucknow Super Giants defeated Gujarat Titans by 33 runs, powered by Mitchell Marsh's stunning century. Despite the victory, LSG captain Rishabh Pant acknowledged the team's inconsistency and injury concerns that prevented them from reaching the playoffs. Pant highlighted that the team delivered a complete performance against GT, with Marsh's explosive innings and bowlers dismantling GT's top order.

In a significant move, the Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's SEVP certification, jeopardizing the status of thousands of international students, including a substantial number from India. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a warning to universities, demanding Harvard meet six stringent conditions within 72 hours to reinstate its enrollment privileges for foreign students.

Despite India's concerns over Pakistan's support for terrorism, the IMF has disbursed a $1 billion bailout package, stating Pakistan met all required targets under the Extended Fund Facility. The decision followed a review where the IMF board determined Pakistan had made progress on reforms.

Reliance Industries and Adani Group have pledged substantial investments of Rs 75,000 crore and Rs 50,000 crore respectively, at the Rising Northeast Investors Summit 2025.

Harvard University faces a ban on admitting international students for the 2025-26 academic year as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revokes its SEVP certification. DHS alleges non-cooperation with inquiries, a hostile environment for Jewish students, support for pro-Hamas sentiments, and discriminatory diversity policies.

An ongoing encounter in Kishtwar's Singhpora area between security forces and terrorists has entered its second day, tragically resulting in the death of an Army soldier. Fierce gunfight continues as additional troops have been deployed to support the operation, aiming to locate and neutralize the terrorists. This follows recent successful operations in Shopian and Tral where six terrorists were killed.

Heavy rain caused widespread waterlogging in Bengaluru. Traffic was disrupted and commuters were stranded. A local entrepreneur's car was submerged. The city's drainage network struggled. RR Nagar zone, however, avoided major flooding due to preventive measures. Officials credited timely drain cleaning and lake management. The incident has renewed debate on sustainable urban planning in Bengaluru.

In a heartwarming display of interfaith harmony in Pune, a Muslim family extended crucial assistance to a Hindu family whose wedding plans were disrupted by heavy rains. As the Kazi family's 'walima' was underway, they offered their hall to Sanskruti Kawade Patil and Narendra Galande Patil for their 'saptapadi' ritual.

Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), known for 'Mysore Sandal' soap, has appointed Bollywood actor Tamannaah Bhatia as its brand ambassador for Rs 6.2 crore, aiming to expand its national market presence. This decision, however, has sparked controversy, with some questioning the choice over local Kannada actresses.