Offbeat
Kancheepuram Tops India's Discreet Dating Sign-Ups for Second Time
Kancheepuram, known for its temples and silk, has again recorded the highest sign-ups on Ashley Madison, a platform for discreet relationships, for May 2026. This marks its second consecutive top ranking, highlighting a significant shift in India's relationship dynamics and its rise as a global hub for such platforms.
India
AAP, TMC & now Shiv Sena (UBT): The new politics of defections
A growing trend of defections from opposition parties like AAP, TMC, and Shiv Sena (UBT) to the BJP is reshaping India's political landscape. This shift fuels speculation that the ruling party aims to secure a two-thirds parliamentary majority. The strategic objective appears to be passing a crucial constitutional amendment bill concerning delimitation, highlighting a calculated political manoeuvre ahead of future legislative actions.
India
Telegram Preferred Platform for Terrorist Acts: Government Defends Block in Court
The Indian government has told the Delhi High Court that messaging app Telegram has become a 'new dark web' and a primary tool for terrorist activities. In an affidavit, the Centre detailed widespread misuse for cybercrime, financial fraud, and child exploitation, defending its temporary ban on the platform.
India
CM Vijay Expands Crop Loan Waiver to Rs 75,000 for Tamil Nadu Farmers
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has significantly expanded the state's crop loan waiver scheme, increasing the full waiver limit to Rs 75,000 for cooperative bank loans. This move, benefiting 14.43 lakh farmers, comes at an estimated cost of Rs 5,932 crore and aims to alleviate financial burdens ahead of the next cultivation season.
India
No Cough Syrups Without Doctor’s Prescription: Govt
The Indian government has mandated that all cough syrups now require a doctor's prescription for purchase, ending their over-the-counter sale. This significant policy shift comes after tragic incidents involving child deaths linked to contaminated or improperly used syrup-based medications. The move aims to enhance patient safety and prevent misuse, impacting how millions access common remedies.
India
Supreme Court: RTI Activism Has Become a 'Business,' Denies Bail to Activist
The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticized the misuse of Right to Information (RTI) activism, labeling it a 'business' that obstructs public projects. This observation came as the court denied anticipatory bail to an activist accused of hindering a Rs 57 crore road project in Punjab, highlighting judicial concerns over the boundaries of activism.
India
Strait of Hormuz Reopens: Will Indian Petrol, Diesel Prices Fall?
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has eased global oil supply concerns, potentially cooling crude prices. However, Indian consumers should temper expectations for immediate or significant reductions in petrol, diesel, and LPG costs, as several domestic factors influence retail fuel prices.
India
Homes Crack, Road Splits As J&K Village Sinks Amid Subsidence Fears
Kalaban village in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district is experiencing alarming land subsidence, causing homes to crack and a vital road to split. Residents attribute the crisis to National Highway construction, fearing further devastation with the approaching monsoon. Authorities are assessing the damage as villagers demand urgent compensation and relocation.
India
Pakistan, China in range? India's own Tomahawk missile can be a game-changer
India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested an indigenous Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM), dubbed the "desi Tomahawk." With an estimated range of up to 1,500 km, this new missile could significantly enhance India's strategic capabilities, potentially bringing key military and economic centers in Pakistan and China within striking distance. This development marks a major step in India's self-reliance in advanced defense technology.
Finance
Wholesale Price Inflation Hits 44-Month High of 9.68% in May
India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation surged to 9.68% in May, marking its highest level in 44 months. This significant rise is primarily driven by escalating prices across fuel, food, and manufactured goods. The Commerce and Industry Ministry released the data, also announcing a revision of the WPI base year.