QUICKREADS

Is H3N2 virus life-threatening? Could it be another Covid? Experts respond

Amid increased concerns over the rising cases of the H3N2 influenza virus and two deaths caused by it, experts said the outbreak is normal. “...because of this…the sudden outbreak of the H3N2 virus which is a normal variant of influenza variant has caused an increase in the number of cases in children,” Gupdoctor Dhiren Gupta of the Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhis quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Children and people with co-morbidities are the most vulnerable groups, affected by seasonal influenza.

Monsoon withdrawal begins in West Rajasthan; earliest in 10 years: IMD

Southwest monsoon begins early withdrawal from West Rajasthan, three days ahead of schedule. IMD confirms favorable conditions for retreat across Rajasthan, Punjab, and Gujarat, marking the earliest withdrawal in a decade with 7% excess rainfall nationwide.

Tension in Manipur's Churachandpur as police detain two for vandalising Modi's cutouts

A mob in Manipur's Churachandpur district clashed with security forces while protesting the detention of two youths accused of vandalizing banners for Prime Minister Modi's visit. The situation escalated with stone-throwing, but calmed after the youths were released. Modi had recently visited the state to address ethnic tensions and promote peace and development.

Extensive damages to crops in various states stoke fears of inflation

Torrential rains have damaged summer crops in northern and central states, with Punjab experiencing its worst flood in four decades. Excess monsoon rainfall threatens crop yields, raising inflation concerns. Prime Minister Modi announced relief packages for affected farmers in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

Sanskrit university project: Ant movement, frog behaviour to predict rain

Sanskrit university partners with NIT Calicut to study ancient weather prediction methods using texts like Bṛhatsaṁhitā, examining how ant movements, frog behavior, and cloud formations could forecast rainfall through a six-month internship program.

ED summons Mimi Chakraborty, Urvashi Rautela in betting app case

ED summons Bollywood actresses Mimi Chakraborty and Urvashi Rautela for questioning in illegal online betting app investigation, probing potential celebrity endorsements and money laundering activities across multiple digital platforms.

NIA files charge sheet in Amritsar temple attack

NIA filed charge sheet against three suspects in Amritsar temple grenade attack, allegedly directed by foreign handlers. Charge sheet details involvement of accused in providing shelter, logistics, and support for the March 15 incident at Thakurdwara Sanatan temple.

Govt employees return to burnt offices and destroyed computers

Government employees returned to burnt offices in Kathmandu after violent protests, with ministries, police stations, and buildings destroyed. At least 72 lives were lost, and critical infrastructure, including computers and vehicles, was severely damaged, disrupting government operations.

Nepal PM vows reforms as new govt takes shape

Nepal's new interim PM Sushila Karki vows to fight corruption, honor protest martyrs, and lead a six-month transition. She pledged to address government challenges, investigate violence, and support families of those killed during recent protests.

Nepal apex court shifts to tents

Nepal's Supreme Court operates from temporary tents after massive Gen Z protests destroyed court premises. Staff meet litigants, handle urgent cases, and seek to rebuild 26,000 case files lost in arson, focusing on critical legal matters.

No consensus, global conflicts may hit climate goals

Global climate goals are at risk due to lack of political consensus, geopolitical tensions, and delayed national climate contributions. The EU and other major economies have yet to submit their emissions reduction targets, potentially hindering progress towards Paris Agreement objectives.

HAL's HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft nears milestone, set for maiden flight

HAL is preparing to conduct the maiden flight of its first series production HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft, aiming to deliver the first plane to the Indian Air Force in January 2026 under a contract for 70 locally made trainers.

Congress backed illegal immigration in Assam: PM Narendra Modi

PM Modi accused Congress of encouraging illegal immigration in Assam, enabling land encroachment, and aligning with an "anti-India" ideology. He emphasized BJP's development efforts and tough stance against infiltration during northeast India visits.

Rajnath Singh approves new framework for defence revenue procurement

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the Defence Procurement Manual 2025, streamlining revenue procurement for armed forces. The revised manual aims to boost self-reliance, expedite decision-making, and simplify processes for domestic defence industry.

Finance ministry official killed after BMW hits his motorcycle in Delhi, wife injured

Navjot Singh, a deputy secretary in the Union Ministry of Finance, died after a BMW collided with his motorcycle near Delhi. His wife was injured in the incident. Singh's son claimed their delayed hospital transfer impacted his father's survival. Police are investigating, having seized both vehicles and initiated a formal FIR.

PM Modi to visit Bihar today: Purnea airport, Makhana Board on agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Purnea, Bihar, on Monday to address a rally and launch development projects worth ₹36,000 crore, including a new airport terminal and the National Makhana Board. He will also distribute ₹500 crore to women’s self-help groups. Security measures are heightened as Bihar prepares for upcoming assembly elections.