In a significant shift from previous years marked by boycotts, all 28 chief ministers attended the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This unprecedented full attendance signals a renewed spirit of cooperative federalism, fostering crucial dialogue between the Centre and states on national development priorities.

The Congress party has firmly dismissed widespread speculation about a potential merger with the Trinamool Congress (TMC), labeling such reports as 'baseless rumours.' The denial comes after senior TMC leaders met with Congress figures, fueling talk amidst the TMC's recent electoral setback and internal divisions in West Bengal.

Precious metals experienced a significant downturn in India, mirroring global trends. A robust US dollar, rising oil prices, and growing anticipation of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike are primarily driving the slump. Geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran are also contributing to market volatility, pushing investors to reassess the economic outlook.

Aam Aadmi Party has accused former leader Raghav Chadha of conspiring against the party before his exit. AAP leaders claimed Chadha was made Rajya Sabha MP only because of the party and alleged he got married for political gain. The sharp attack comes after Chadha’s recent silence on key issues and his reported closeness to BJP circles. The episode has intensified speculation about internal AAP rifts and Chadha’s future political moves.

A family of four in Mumbai’s Paydhuni area died after consuming biryani and watermelon on April 26, 2026. The victims, identified as 35-year-old Sandeep Giri, his wife Priya, and their two children aged 8 and 6, complained of severe vomiting and stomach pain before collapsing. Preliminary investigation points to possible food poisoning from contaminated biryani or watermelon. Police have registered a case and sent samples for forensic analysis. The incident has shocked the locality.

Shekhar Gupta argues that in a volatile global order marked by US unpredictability under Trump, Pakistan’s instability, and China’s assertiveness, India must focus on economic reform, consolidation, and building resilience. He cautions against knee-jerk reactions to Pakistan’s actions and stresses the need for disciplined long-term strategy rather than reactive foreign policy.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s extensive 15-day tour of West Bengal is being seen as a high-intensity political campaign ahead of Assembly elections. The article analyses how the duration and visibility of the visit aim to create a perception of BJP’s seriousness and organisational strength against TMC. It highlights Shah’s focus on booth-level strengthening, outreach to various communities, and countering TMC’s narrative on law and order.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply attacked the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, calling the Malda incident where judicial officers were held hostage a symbol of “Maha jungle raj” and complete collapse of law and order. Addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, he accused TMC of arrogance, sheltering infiltrators, and failing to protect constitutional institutions. He warned that those responsible for “looting” Bengal would be held accountable after the elections.

CBSE has announced major changes for 2026-27: students must study three languages with two Indian languages, treating English as a foreign language. Vocational subjects become compulsory in Classes 9-10. AI and computational thinking introduced from Class 3. New NCERT books are under careful review. The curriculum shifts towards competency-based, experiential learning aligned with NEP 2020.

Aam Aadmi Party leaders launched a strong attack on senior leader Raghav Chadha for not criticising PM Modi and the BJP-led Central government. Several AAP leaders shared videos highlighting Chadha’s silence. The development comes amid internal party tensions. BJP leaders came out in support of Chadha. The episode has triggered fresh speculation about differences within the AAP.