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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, shakes hands with Netherland's Prime Minister Rob Jetten

'Significant progress in ties', says PM Modi after meeting Dutch PM

India and the Netherlands have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, as announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to The Hague. The two nations signed multiple agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in key sectors, including trade, healthcare, and innovation. Modi emphasized India's rapid economic growth and invited Dutch investment in various industries, highlighting the mutual benefits of this strengthened alliance.

One of the grey hornbills. (Courtesy: Nikhil Devasar)

Avian drama grips Delhi’s Lodhi Garden

A lone female Oriental pied hornbill, an outsider in Delhi, is feeding the chicks of a resident Indian grey hornbill family, leading to a complex scenario of adoption, territorial conflict, and alleged infanticide. Observers noted her unusual behavior and interactions with the grey hornbills, raising questions about her motives and identity as an escapee or vagrant.

Police suspect the victim may have drowned in the lake earlier, with the skeletal remains surfacing after water levels receded significantly during the summer.

Human skeletal remains found near lake in Bengaluru outskirts

Human skeletal remains, likely belonging to a woman, were found around a lake near Sarjapur, prompting a police investigation. Shepherds discovered the remains while grazing cattle, leading to the recovery of scattered bones and a saree piece. Police suspect the victim may have drowned, with forensic analysis underway to determine identity and cause of death.

ndhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu at a meeting

Andhra's big population push: Naidu announces 30k for 3rd child, 40k for 4th

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced an enhanced incentive for families with more than two children as part of a new population management policy aimed at reversing declining fertility rates. Families will receive 30,000 for a third child and 40,000 for a fourth. The policy also includes educational and nutritional support. Currently, the state's Total Fertility Rate is 1.5, below the ideal 2.1, raising concerns about future economic impacts.

Accused in the NEET-UG exam paper leak case, Manisha Waghmare and PV Kulkarni, were produced before the Rouse Avenue Court, in New Delhi on Saturday. (ANI Video Grab)

NEET paper leak: CBI closes in on NTA paper-setting group, arrests Pune teacher

A senior botany teacher from Pune, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, has been arrested in the NEET-UG 2026 question paper leak case, following the arrest of retired chemistry lecturer PV Kulkarni. Both allegedly leaked exam questions during coaching sessions. The CBI is investigating the entire National Testing Agency paper-setting committee, with more arrests likely as they trace the leak's source and middlemen involved.

Children walk near the bank of Padma River with pinwheel toys, in Munshiganj, Bangladesh,

India-Bangladesh ties to ‘depend’ on Ganges Water Treaty | All about the pact

Bangladesh emphasized that the future of its relationship with India hinges on the renewal of the Ganges water treaty as it approaches expiry in December 2026. BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that discussions must align with Bangladesh's needs. This comes after Bangladesh approved a project to mitigate the Farakka Barrage's impacts, which have caused water flow issues. Signed in 1996, the treaty governs water sharing during low river flows, establishing rights for both nations.

Asst collector first class competent authority under UP Revenue Code to declare farm-land transaction void: HC

Asst collector first class competent authority under UP Revenue Code to declare farm-land transaction void: HC

The Allahabad High Court ruled that under the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, only an assistant collector can declare agricultural land transactions void, not the district magistrate. The court overturned a DM's order voiding a sale deed for land purchased by a society, stating the DM lacked jurisdiction. The case involved a madarsa and its chairman, a foreign national.

The complainant alleged that Bhageerath was in a relationship with her daughter and had sexually harassed her.

HC plea, LOC, then arrest: Sexual assault case against Union minister's son

Bandi Sai Bhageerath, son of a Union minister, was arrested in Telangana under the POCSO Act for allegedly sexually harassing a 17-year-old girl. The complaint details inappropriate acts and coercion into substance use. Bhageerath denies wrongdoing, claiming pressure from the girl’s family for marriage. The minister asserts faith in legal proceedings, stating all are equal before the law.

The Union minister said his son maintained that he had committed no wrongdoing.

Union minister's son Bandi Sai Bhageerath arrested in Pocso case

Bandi Sai Bhageerath, the son of Union minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, surrendered to police on Sunday for questioning following a look-out circular related to a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This development raises significant concerns regarding the minister's family and the implications of the ongoing investigation into serious allegations.

From Energy Crisis to AI Boom: Key Takeaways from PM Modi’s Netherlands Address | Watch Full Speech

'Has jhalmuri reached here?': PM Modi's Bengal election quip in Netherlands

PM Modi arrived in the Netherlands after a visit to the UAE, as part of a five-nation tour that includes Sweden and Norway for the India-Nordic Summit. He praised record voter turnout in recent assembly elections, emphasizing India's democratic values and opportunities. Modi encouraged global investment, highlighting India's aspirations to lead in manufacturing and green energy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his two-day visit to the Netherlands, at The Hague on May 16, 2026.

PM Modi warns of ‘return of mass poverty’, flags ‘decade of disasters’ amid war

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that the global economy faces serious risks, jeopardizing decades of progress against poverty, during a speech in The Hague. He cited ongoing conflicts, the pandemic, and an energy crisis as catalysts for this "decade of disasters." Modi urged austerity measures in India, including limiting overseas travel and fuel consumption, amidst rising fuel prices.

So far, nine people from five states have been arrested over four days. (Video grab from X/ RahulGandhi)

Rahul Gandhi demands education minister’s resignation over NEET paper leak

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG exam paper leak, alleging a "money-making nexus" involving the BJP and RSS. Following protests by the Indian Youth Congress, Gandhi emphasized the need for accountability, claiming millions of students were cheated. The CBI has arrested key suspects linked to the leak.

Prabhakar emerged victorious from the Thousand Lights constituency in Chennai. (Facebook/ JCDPrabhakar)

AIADMK factions’ petitions under scrutiny after split: TN assembly speaker

Two factions of the AIADMK are under scrutiny after their legislators supported the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) during a crucial floor test. Following the party's poor performance in the Tamil Nadu assembly polls, a split emerged. The speaker confirmed both factions submitted petitions for disqualification of opposing lawmakers as TVK secured majority support.

BJP workers celebrate during a rally in support of newly sworn-in West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. (PTI)

Keeping up with UP: BJP to keep momentum going in 7 state polls in 2027

The BJP, buoyed by wins in West Bengal and Bihar, is gearing up for crucial assembly elections in 2024, including in UP and Punjab. With a robust strategy focusing on women voters and caste dynamics, they aim to solidify their hold. Meanwhile, the fragmented opposition struggles to unify against a well-prepared BJP, raising questions about their electoral viability.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis's wife Amruta Fadnavis at a recent event in Mumbai. She said she had been invited to walk the red carpet at the Cannes film festival, but skipped it owing to PM Modi's austerity call.

‘Red carpet can wait’: Amruta Fadnavis says skipped Cannes to follow PM's appeal

Amruta Fadnavis, invited to represent Maharashtra at the Cannes Film Festival, declined due to Prime Minister Modi's austerity measures, emphasizing national priority over personal opportunities. Despite the effort of artisans who crafted her paithani, she prioritized the call to action for reduced consumption and travel. This reflects a broader political response to Modi's recent austerity appeal.

Videos of students gathered outside the other group's hostel. College authorities told HT they have taken disciplinary action by expelling all students involved from the hostel for six months.

Students clash at Amritsar college, viral videos claim Kashmir-Bihari dispute

A college in Amritsar expelled students involved in a violent dispute between groups from Bihar and Kashmir, triggered by a minor disagreement over language. The administration has taken disciplinary action, allowing students to sit for exams despite the six-month hostel expulsion. Police are investigating, reviewing CCTV footage, while security measures have been heightened on campus.

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu's latest announcement follows an earlier proposal to provide a  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>25,000 incentive for the birth of a second child.

Andhra to give incentives for third, fourth child: Naidu says population ageing

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced financial incentives of 30,000 for families having a third child and 40,000 for a fourth, aiming to combat the state's declining population. Previously, he proposed 25,000 for a second child. Naidu emphasized the need to maintain a fertility rate of 2.1 for economic stability, citing societal shifts in family planning.

The case was filed on May 8 under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the POCSO Act.

POCSO case: Look-out circular against Union minister's son after no HC relief

A look-out circular has been issued for Bandi Sai Bhageerath, son of Union minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, amid allegations of sexually harassing a minor under the POCSO Act. Cyberabad police are searching for him following a Telangana high court decision denying his bail plea. The case stems from a complaint filed by the girl's mother on May 8.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay speaks during the floor test proceedings at the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, in Chennai on Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay allocates ministries. See full list

Tamil Nadu Governor approved the new cabinet portfolio allocations by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, following his recent inauguration. The CM will oversee public administration, police, and urban water supply. Key ministers include K A Sengottaiyan (finance), K G Arun Raj (health), and P. Venkataraman (food and civil supplies), among others, marking a new political era.

On Friday, CJI Kant raised concerns over the number of lawyers allegedly possessing fake law degrees.

CJI clarifies a day after ‘cockroaches’ remark: ‘Indian youth inspires me’

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant clarified his controversial "youngsters like cockroaches" remark, stating it was misquoted and targeted those entering the legal profession with fake degrees, not the youth of India. He expressed pride in the nation's youth as "pillars of a developed India." His comments arose during a hearing on legal misconduct and fake qualifications.

This is the first confirmed instance of a gibbon using such a structure in the sanctuary and the first documented case anywhere in the world of a canopy bridge being used over a railway line, scientist

Endangered hoolock gibbon crosses railway line using canopy bridge in Assam sanctuary

A male Western Hoolock Gibbon was documented using a canopy bridge over the Lumding–Dibrugarh railway line, marking the first global instance of such a structure aiding arboreal wildlife over active train tracks. Installed to mitigate risks from trains, these bridges promote gibbon conservation in fragmented habitats. The species is Endangered and native to Northeast India.

The statement came a day after a Supreme Court bench led by the CJI made strong oral observations. (PTI)

Respect India’s youth, aimed at those with fake degrees: CJI on ‘cockroach’ remarks

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant clarified that his remarks labeling some individuals as "cockroaches" and "parasites" targeted those entering professions like law and media with fake degrees, not the youth of India. He expressed pride in Indian youth, emphasizing their importance for the nation's future. The comments arose during a Supreme Court hearing about senior advocate designations.

The prime minister left for a six-day tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to enhance bilateral ties.

Modi asks to avoid foreign travel but goes on trips himself: Mann slams PM

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for urging citizens to postpone foreign travel while continuing his own trips abroad. Mann highlighted rising fuel prices and questioned the government's restrictions amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia. He emphasized the need for transparency in electoral processes and expressed confidence in his party's success in upcoming local body elections.

Operation Sindoor | Choose To Be Part Of Geography Or History’: Army Chief’s Sharp Warning To Pak

‘Decide whether want to be part of geography’: Army chief's warning to Pakistan

Operation Sindoor was launched by Indian forces on May 7, 2022, in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. The operation involved precision strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and lasted nearly 88 hours before a ceasefire was reached on May 10. General Dwivedi's recent remarks reiterated India’s stance against Pakistan harboring terrorists, amidst calls for dialogue from Pakistan.

Experts say that an early onset does no guarantee protection against a weak monsoon season.

Monsoon coming early, but that doesn't mean it'll rain enough. El Nino to blame

The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala on May 26, six days earlier than usual, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). However, concerns linger over insufficient rainfall due to an emerging El Nino, which has historically weakened monsoon conditions in India. Past El Nino events have led to significant droughts and crop failures across the country.

CJI calls for deepening technology and AI-based judicial architecture for faster justice delivery

CJI calls for deepening technology and AI-based judicial architecture for faster justice delivery

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant emphasized the need for integrating technology and artificial intelligence into the judicial system to enhance justice delivery, stating that it is crucial for reducing time wastage in the judiciary. He praised the Madhya Pradesh High Court's new digital platforms and highlighted a Supreme Court committee's efforts to implement AI nationwide.

Andhra plans cash incentives to encourage higher birth rates

Andhra plans cash incentives to encourage higher birth rates

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced incentives of Rs 30,000 for a third child and Rs 40,000 for a fourth to combat the state's declining population. Addressing a public meeting, he emphasized the need for society to increase birth rates, countering his previous stance on population control. Naidu aims to maintain a stable fertility rate of 2.1.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday arrested Dinesh Biwal, his brother Mangilal and Mangilal’s son Vikas in connection with the alleged NEET-2026 paper leak case (X/ Representative photo)

BJP worker’s kin under lens in NEET-UG leak case

A possible NEET-2025 paper leak is under investigation, involving BJP worker Dinesh Biwal's family and their ties to Haryana paper supplier Yash Yadav. The CBI arrested Dinesh, Mangilal, and Vikas Biwal for allegedly arranging a ₹10 lakh deal for leaked papers. The Rajasthan Congress claims this scandal reveals a broader paper leak racket linked to the BJP.

Centre launches short Hajj package to cut pilgrimage duration to around 20 days

Centre launches short Hajj package to cut pilgrimage duration to around 20 days

The Indian government has introduced a Short Hajj package for 2026, allowing approximately 10,000 pilgrims to complete their pilgrimage in about 20 days, significantly shorter than the usual 40 to 45 days. This initiative aims to accommodate professionals who struggle to take extended leave. The first flight departs from Kochi on May 17, 2026.

Lucknow University assistant professor Paramjeet Singh was arrested after viral audio clips allegedly captured him pressuring a female student to meet him while promising leaked examination papers.

‘Darling, come over’: Leaked clip reveals LU professor harassed female student

Lucknow University assistant professor Paramjeet Singh was arrested after audio clips surfaced of him allegedly pressuring a female student to meet him in exchange for leaked exam papers. The university initiated an inquiry, with police filing charges under Section 74 for harassment and compromising exam integrity. Singh's actions have sparked significant controversy within the institution.