The Trump administration has cut 2,000 positions at USAID and placed remaining staff on administrative leave after a federal court allowed the move. This decision is part of a larger effort to scale back USAID operations, which has already led to the closure of its headquarters and numerous global aid programs.
An SUV driver allegedly blinded by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle veered off a Wadala road, running over a woman and her 18-month-old son sleeping on a footpath. The toddler died, and the mother sustained injuries. The driver turned himself in and was later released on bail. The police are investigating the incident.
Rescue efforts are underway to save eight workers, including two engineers, trapped in a collapsed section of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal tunnel in Telangana. Silt and water are hindering progress, and additional equipment and expertise have been brought in to accelerate the operation, amidst fears of debris complicating the rescue.
Around 70 Indians, including five women, were rescued from a cybercrime hub in Myanmar and moved to Thailand by Myanmar’s armed forces. The victims, hailing from various Indian states, had been coerced into cybercriminal activities, and authorities are now coordinating their return to India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticized opposition leaders for mocking Hindu religious practices and cultural traditions, accusing them of divisive agendas supported by foreign powers. He emphasized unity and announced significant healthcare initiatives, including a new cancer hospital in Madhya Pradesh and district-wide cancer centers nationwide within three years.
A TISS assistant professor resigned after a student filed a sexual harassment complaint, accusing him of toxic behavior, intimidation, and inappropriate remarks. TISS has barred him from campus while the internal complaints committee conducts an independent inquiry into the allegations, despite his resignation.
Inter-state government bus services between Karnataka and Maharashtra remain suspended indefinitely due to linguistic tensions. The suspension follows assaults on transport personnel from both states, involving language disputes. Thousands of commuters are affected, with alternative travel arrangements being sought amid heightened security concerns.
External affairs minister S Jaishankar urged Bangladesh to decide on the nature of their relationship with India, highlighting issues of blame and minority attacks. He emphasized the importance of clear intentions for the future while acknowledging the historical ties between the two nations.
A group of 12 undocumented Indian immigrants deported from the US to Panama reached Delhi, facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration. This comes after the deportation of 332 others to Amritsar earlier this month. Cases have been registered against travel agents responsible for illegal facilitation.
India has been implementing seven projects worth $750 million in collaboration with USAID. The focus is on agriculture, climate adaptation, water and sanitation, renewable energy, health, and disaster management. Ongoing since 1951, USAID has provided $17 billion over 73 years for 555 projects across multiple sectors.
German elections see opposition leader Friedrich Merz claiming victory, with the far-right Alternative for Germany achieving its strongest showing since World War II. The results indicate complications in forming a coalition, with potential partners required for Merz to secure governance.
Assam Rifles personnel intercepted a vehicle in Aizawl, seizing 4,980 sticks of explosives weighing approximately 622.5kg, and arrested three individuals. The seized explosives were suspected to be procured by the Bangladesh-based insurgent group PCJSS. The arrested individuals and the explosives were handed over to Vaivakawn police station officials.
PM Narendra Modi urged Indians to reduce their monthly edible oil consumption by 10% to combat obesity, highlighting its role in causing health issues. He shared messages from Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and boxer Nikhat Zareen, who emphasized the importance of a healthy diet and reduced oil use for better health and athletic performance.
India have improved their chances for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals after a decisive win over Pakistan, yet they need another victory against New Zealand for assurance. Pakistan face an uphill battle, requiring a win over Bangladesh and favorable other results to remain in contention.
