press secretary

Iran congratulated White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on her newborn daughter while referencing the deadly US-backed strikes on an Iranian school in Minab. The Iranian Embassy in Armenia urged Leavitt to "think of the mothers" of the 168 children killed in the attack, which occurred during Operation Epic Fury.

Ministry of external affairs pushed back against press freedom queries during PM Modi's Norway visit, citing a lack of understanding of India's scale and reliance on "ignorant NGOs." This followed a Norwegian journalist's claim that PM Modi avoided her question. The MEA defended India's democratic framework and rights, highlighting its vast population and media landscape.

Three police officers have been suspended by the West Bengal government following alleged investigative lapses in the RG Kar rape-murder case. A departmental probe is also being initiated against former Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal and two other officers. This action precedes the state's upcoming elections.

Honour to Rajakesari Service Trust founder; award to be presented on May 24

Kerala's new UDF government, led by CM VD Satheesan, has formed a special committee to prepare a White Paper on the state's financial condition, headed by ex-cabinet secretary KM Chandrasekhar. This move follows allegations of financial mismanagement by the previous government. The cabinet also established an SIT to probe attacks during the Nava Kerala Yatra.

NATO is considering deploying forces to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz if the blockade persists into July, a move that would significantly alter the alliance's stance on the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Growing economic pressure from soaring energy prices is driving this reconsideration, with leaders set to discuss the issue at an upcoming summit.

The CPM has warned it will reconsider its support for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government. This comes if the ruling party includes the rebel faction of the AIADMK in its cabinet. CPM state secretary P Shanmugam stated this at a press conference. The party's support was initially to prevent President's Rule and BJP's influence.

The Central Seat Allocation Board (CSAB) 2026, coordinated by IIEST Shibpur, will commence counselling for engineering and architecture seats on June 2. This process, covering NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs via JoSAA 2026, will offer approximately 48,000 seats. The entire counselling will be online, with physical reporting mandatory for admission.

In a surprising move, the Trump administration announced in August 2026 that the U.S. government acquired a 10% stake in chipmaker Intel, valued at approximately $11 billion. This equity was reportedly secured in exchange for federal grants, with President Trump expressing satisfaction with the deal, which he believes strengthens American technological leadership.

Move to Aid Indian Refiners; OMCs Still Losing `750Cr A Day