Cyclone Ditwah, which devastated Sri Lanka, is now advancing toward the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, bringing very heavy rainfall, gale-force winds and rough seas across the region. The system is forecast to run nearly parallel to the coast, making landfall unlikely, but causing major disruption in districts such as Nagapattinam, Cuddalore and the Puducherry–Karaikal region, all placed under red alert. Over 28 disaster-response teams from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been activated, and flights and trains in and out of Chennai have been cancelled or diverted. (PC: PTI)

A Class 8 student from Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh — and a national-level skater — leapt from his school’s third floor after repeatedly apologising. CCTV footage from his private school shows him saying “sorry” 52 times in four minutes, allegedly under threat from the principal, who told him his skating career could be ruined. The incident followed the discovery that he had brought his mobile phone to school and recorded a classroom video. He was rushed to a private hospital in critical condition, but his health has now stabilised. (PC: NDTV)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Maulana Mohammad Asim Qasmi, imam of the Bilali Mosque in Haldwani’s Banbhulpura, and his associate Nazar Kamal, an electrician, in connection with the car bomb blast near Delhi’s Red Fort. They were picked up based on call detail records linked to Dr. Umar Nabi, the main accused in the blast. The two have been taken to Delhi for interrogation. Security has been increased around the mosque in Haldwani, and the investigation is expanding, with more questioning in Nainital. (PC: The Hindu)

Russia launched a major attack on Kyiv, firing dozens of missiles and drones, killing at least three people and damaging several areas of the capital. The strikes came as a Ukrainian team travels to the US for important peace talks. The delegation is now led by security council chief Rustem Umerov, after top aide Andriy Yermak resigned following a corruption raid. US officials Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will join the meeting in Florida. President Zelenskyy said he hopes to finalise points from earlier talks in Geneva. The coming days may shape Ukraine’s next steps in the war. (PC: Sky News)

India has released a new earthquake map, putting the entire Himalayan region in the highest-risk Zone VI for the first time. The update shows 61% of the country is now in moderate to high hazard zones. Scientists say the Indian Plate pushes into the Eurasian Plate, building stress that can trigger major quakes. Long-unruptured faults in the Himalayas store huge energy, increasing risks. The map also reclassifies towns near fault lines, ensuring stricter building rules. Officials say this will guide safer construction, retrofitting, and disaster planning. Experts call it a major step for public safety. (PC: India Today)

A Delhi court has sent three doctors and a preacher to 10-day judicial custody in the Red Fort blast case. The accused — Muzammil Ganaie, Adeel Rather, Shaheena Saeed, and Maulvi Irfan Ahmed Wagay — were produced before the court on Saturday. The NIA has arrested seven people so far in the case, which is linked to a “white-collar” terror module uncovered by Jammu and Kashmir Police. Officials say the group was connected to a suicide bombing plot. The main bomber, Dr Umar-un-Nabi, used an explosives-filled car for the attack. Investigators are still tracking more suspects across multiple states. 

India is strengthening the Siliguri Corridor by building three new military bases to protect its key link to the northeast. The new stations at Dhubri, Kishanganj, and Chopra are designed for quick deployment and stronger surveillance. This move comes as Bangladesh’s new interim government grows closer to China and Pakistan, with plans to buy advanced Chinese jets and work on drone projects. India sees this as a security risk because the corridor is only 22 kilometres wide and crucial for connecting over 45 million people. With new bases, Rafale jets, and BrahMos missiles, India aims to secure the region and prevent any threat.

The BCCI will hold an important review meeting after India’s ODI series against South Africa to discuss the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in 50-over cricket. According to reports, board officials, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar will meet in Ahmedabad to plan a clear roadmap for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rohit has been told to focus on fitness and performance and avoid reacting to speculation. The board is concerned about long breaks between ODIs and recent rusty form. Both senior players are still seen as key batters, but expectations on them remain high. (PC: Reuters)

India has launched a major relief mission to help Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah caused severe floods and landslides, killing more than 130 people and leaving many missing. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India sent ships, aircraft, and NDRF teams with food, water, tents, blankets, and medical supplies. Warships INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri delivered fresh and dry rations, while a C-130J aircraft brought 12 tonnes of aid. An IL-76 aircraft also arrived with 80 NDRF personnel and rescue dogs. India is helping stranded travellers in Colombo as more aid ships, including INS Sukanya, continue to head towards Sri Lanka. (PC: News18)

Cyclone Ditwah is moving towards the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and south Andhra Pradesh coast, prompting a red alert and major preparations. The storm has already caused severe damage in Sri Lanka, where over 153 people have died and many are missing after heavy floods and landslides. India has sent relief supplies and rescue teams to help. The IMD warns of extremely heavy rain in coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. Disaster response teams are on standby, shelters are ready, and authorities are urging people to stay safe. More rain is expected as the cyclone moves along the Bay of Bengal.