China is building a large network of military facilities near its nuclear missile bases in the Xinjiang region, according to satellite images reviewed by Reuters. The project includes launch pads, bunkers, communication centres, airfields and rail links. Experts say more than 80 sites could support mobile missile launchers and air-defence systems. Two large octagon-shaped complexes have been developed over the past six years. Analysts believe the facilities may help protect and strengthen China's nuclear forces. China maintains a "no first use" nuclear policy, but concerns remain over rising tensions involving Taiwan and China's growing military capabilities.

US President Donald Trump remains in excellent health, according to a report released by his physician after a routine medical examination. The evaluation included laboratory tests, diagnostic studies and consultations with specialists. White House physician Sean Barbabella said Trump's cognitive and physical performance were excellent and that he is fully fit to carry out his duties. The report noted no major health concerns. Trump, who turns 80 in June, was advised to continue weight loss efforts, increase physical activity and maintain a healthy diet. He currently takes medications for cholesterol management and cardiovascular prevention. (PC: AFP)

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026 was delayed at several centres across India on Friday due to a technical glitch. The National Testing Agency (NTA) said the issue occurred at the end of its technology partner, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The agency said the problem was resolved and candidates were given full compensatory time. The delay led to confusion and long waits at some exam centres. Opposition leaders criticised the government and questioned the handling of major examinations. NTA apologised for the inconvenience and said revised schedules were issued to ensure students could complete their exams fairly.

Delhi Police's Special Cell has arrested nine people, including some Nepali nationals, for their alleged links to a network connected to fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim and Pakistan's ISI. Police recovered a large cache of weapons during the operation. Investigators believe the group was developed over time and may have been planning activities across India. Authorities are now examining the network's connections, possible targets, and the source of the recovered arms. Officials described the arrests as a major breakthrough in efforts to disrupt organised crime and cross-border terror networks. Further investigation into the case is ongoing.

The United States has clarified its position on a recent directive that sparked concerns among immigrants seeking permanent residency. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the policy does not require all green card applicants to return to their home countries during the application process. Instead, immigration officers will continue to decide such cases individually, as permitted under existing rules. The clarification comes after an earlier statement suggested applicants would generally need to leave the US to apply. The move had raised concerns among F-1 students, tourists and H-1B visa holders, including many Indian professionals seeking permanent residency. (PC: HT)

China is rapidly expanding military infrastructure around its nuclear missile fields in the remote deserts of Xinjiang and Gansu, according to satellite images reviewed by Reuters. The construction includes more than 80 launch pads, fortified military facilities, communications networks and large octagonal installations near strategic missile silos. Security analysts say the project is aimed at improving China's ability to survive a potential nuclear first strike and launch a retaliatory attack. Experts described the scale of the buildup as unprecedented. The development comes amid rising tensions between China and the United States, particularly over Taiwan, and growing concerns about Beijing's expanding nuclear capabilities. (PC: India Today)

A Kenyan court has suspended plans by the United States to open an Ebola quarantine facility in the country. The High Court ordered that no such centre linked to any foreign government can operate until the case is heard. Rights groups and medical unions raised concerns about public health risks and lack of transparency. The facility was meant to treat US citizens exposed to Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Kenya has not reported any Ebola cases so far. The government has not directly commented on the plan. The court will review the matter in the coming weeks. (PC: EPA)

A video showing a US man confronting an Indian couple has gone viral on social media. In the clip, the man asks the couple if they are from India and questions why they came to the United States. When the couple says they wanted to explore the world, the man tells them to "go home" and "get out of my country." The incident has sparked criticism online. The video surfaced days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned racist remarks against Indian Americans. Rubio said the US remains a welcoming country and that racist comments do not reflect most Americans.

India may face its weakest monsoon in more than a decade in 2026, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The agency expects rainfall to be around 90 per cent of normal and says there is a 60 per cent chance of a deficient monsoon. Scientists say the main reason is the development of El Nino in the Pacific Ocean, which often reduces rainfall in India. The Indian Ocean Dipole, which can sometimes offset El Nino's effects, is expected to remain neutral this year. Below-normal rainfall could affect crops, water supplies, and food prices across many parts of the country.

India has continued to move ships through the Strait of Hormuz despite disruptions caused by the Iran conflict. Shipping Ministry officials said the government is working closely with different ministries and through diplomatic channels to manage vessel movements safely. Around 13 Indian-flagged vessels are currently in the region, including oil tankers, container ships and bulk carriers. The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil and gas supplies. Since the conflict began on February 28, ship traffic has slowed and many operators have avoided the route. However, India has managed to keep essential shipments moving through the waterway.