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.

US President Donald Trump said a peace deal with Iran could be reached soon and announced that the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be lifted. He said Iran must never develop nuclear weapons and must allow free shipping through the strait. Trump claimed a final decision on the deal would be made soon after a White House meeting. However, Iran rejected his statements, saying negotiations are still ongoing and no final agreement has been reached. Iranian officials said they do not accept US demands and will make decisions based on national interests. Talks between both sides continue. (PC: Reuters)

The Indian government has directed oil marketing companies to maintain at least 30 days of LPG reserves as tensions rise in the Middle East and fears grow over a possible blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Petroleum Ministry Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma said India currently has sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG to meet domestic demand. Refineries across the country are operating at optimum capacity, while LPG production has reached an all-time high. The move is aimed at strengthening India’s energy security and ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply in case global shipping routes face disruptions due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

Gujarat Titans stormed into the IPL 2026 final after defeating Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in Qualifier 2. Captain Shubman Gill led the chase with a brilliant 104 off 53 balls as GT chased down 215 in just 18.4 overs — the highest successful playoff chase in IPL history. Sai Sudharsan added 58 in a dominant opening partnership. Earlier, teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored a stunning 96 for Rajasthan Royals, helping them post 214/6. Gujarat Titans will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 final after a commanding knockout victory.

US President Donald Trump claimed he is close to approving a major peace agreement with Iran after months of conflict and tense negotiations. The proposed deal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing sanctions, extending a ceasefire, and limiting Iran’s nuclear activities. However, Iranian leaders denied that a final agreement has been reached and rejected claims about surrendering enriched uranium or giving up nuclear rights. The draft deal has also triggered criticism from Republican hardliners in the US, who fear it resembles earlier nuclear agreements. Diplomatic efforts involving Pakistan and Gulf nations continue as both sides negotiate final terms. (PC: X)

The Indian government has said that despite disruptions and security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz, Indian cargo and oil shipments are continuing through carefully planned alternative strategies. Officials revealed that India has activated contingency maritime protocols, including route adjustments, naval coordination and close monitoring of regional developments, to ensure uninterrupted trade flow. The Centre stated that energy supplies remain stable and there is no immediate shortage threat. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, has become increasingly sensitive amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Authorities are also maintaining constant communication with shipping companies and international partners to protect Indian commercial interests and maritime security. (PC: X)

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has clarified that ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat will only be allowed to participate in selection trials for the 50kg weight category. The decision comes amid ongoing discussions over her preferred competition category and preparations for upcoming international tournaments. WFI officials stated that the federation has strictly followed existing selection policies and medical guidelines while finalising eligibility. The move effectively rules out Vinesh from competing in higher weight divisions during the current trials cycle. The development has sparked debate within Indian wrestling circles, with supporters questioning the federation’s handling of one of India’s most decorated female wrestlers. (PC: PTI)

Iran has rejected key demands outlined by U.S. President Donald Trump during ongoing negotiations over a proposed peace deal aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East. Tehran reportedly refused to destroy or surrender its enriched nuclear material and remains opposed to conditions linked to unrestricted, toll-free access through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said he would make a “final determination” soon on the proposed agreement, which includes extending the current ceasefire and reopening critical shipping routes. Iranian officials accused Washington of exaggerating progress, insisting sanctions relief and concrete U.S. actions must come before any major commitments are made.