Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparations for the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21. The meeting involved officials from the Ministry of Education, the National Testing Agency (NTA), state governments and higher education institutions. Pradhan emphasized transparent and fair conduct of the examination, with special focus on security arrangements, surveillance and coordination among agencies. Authorities have strengthened monitoring systems and warned against any attempt to disrupt the process. The review aims to ensure a smooth and credible examination while restoring confidence among millions of medical aspirants. (PC: X)

A dramatic video circulating online reportedly shows a Ukrainian drone strike hitting an oil refinery near Moscow, sending thick black smoke into the sky and blowing the lid off a storage tank. Russian authorities confirmed a fire at the facility and said emergency crews were deployed to contain the blaze. The attack is part of Ukraine’s ongoing campaign targeting Russian energy infrastructure to disrupt fuel supplies and military logistics. No casualties were immediately reported. The incident highlights the increasing reach of Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory as the conflict between the two countries continues to escalate.

US President Donald Trump has drawn criticism after appearing to soften his stance on Iran’s ballistic missile programme following the newly signed US-Iran peace agreement. Trump argued that it would be “unfair” to deny Tehran missiles while other countries possess similar capabilities, marking a sharp departure from his earlier hardline position. Critics in the US and among allies have accused him of making excessive concessions to secure the deal. The agreement focuses mainly on nuclear restrictions and regional stability, while leaving Iran’s missile programme largely untouched, fueling concerns over future security implications. (PC: X)

The Central Government told the Delhi High Court that Telegram has evolved into a “new dark web,” arguing that its anonymity and encryption make it difficult to trace criminal activities. The remarks came as the Centre defended its temporary ban on the messaging platform ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. Authorities claimed organised cheating networks used Telegram to spread fake papers and defraud students, necessitating stricter action. Telegram has challenged the restrictions in court, while the government insists the measures are aimed at safeguarding examination integrity and protecting millions of candidates. (PC: The Times of India)

Yoane Wissa's journey from surviving a brutal acid attack to becoming DR Congo's World Cup hero has inspired football fans worldwide. The striker scored his country's first FIFA World Cup goal in 52 years, helping DR Congo secure a memorable 1-1 draw against Portugal.   In 2021, Wissa nearly lost his eyesight after an attacker threw acid at his face outside his home in France. After multiple surgeries and a long recovery, he rebuilt his career, starring for Brentford before moving to Newcastle United. His equaliser against Portugal marked a remarkable chapter in one of football's most inspiring comeback stories.  

Indian stock markets extended their winning streak for a fifth consecutive session on Thursday, supported by falling crude oil prices and optimism surrounding the US-Iran peace agreement. The benchmark Sensex and Nifty closed higher as investors welcomed signs of easing tensions in the Middle East, reducing concerns over energy supply disruptions.   Lower crude prices are seen as positive for India's economy, helping ease inflation and import costs. Buying in banking, financial and auto stocks also supported the rally. Market experts said improved global sentiment and hopes of stable energy prices encouraged investors to remain positive despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. (PC: The Hindu)

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has criticised the US-Iran peace deal, saying it fails to address key Israeli security concerns. In an interview with India Today, Azar said Iran's ballistic missile programme and support for regional groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas were left out of the agreement.   He also objected to provisions related to Lebanon, arguing that Israel's security interests had not been adequately protected. Azar said Israel would maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon and reserve the right to self-defence. Despite his concerns, he claimed Israel had significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities during the recent conflict. (PC: India Today)

Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match, with Cristiano Ronaldo enduring a frustrating night. João Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalised just before halftime.   Ronaldo struggled to influence the game, finishing with 25 touches and three shots, none of which were on target. The veteran forward also won only one duel as DR Congo's defence kept him quiet throughout the match. Despite late pressure from Portugal, DR Congo held firm to earn a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.  

Pakistan’s Navy plans to expand its presence in the Bay of Bengal after inducting new Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines, a move that is drawing attention in India. Reports suggest Pakistani naval officials believe the advanced submarines will allow sustained operations farther from Pakistan’s coastline, including in the eastern Indian Ocean. The development comes as ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh improve, leading to speculation about greater military cooperation. The Hangor-class submarines are equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, enabling longer underwater endurance and enhanced stealth. Analysts say the move could add a new dimension to regional maritime competition. (PC: India Today)

A Ukrainian drone strike hit Moscow’s Kapotnya oil refinery on June 18, triggering a major explosion and a large fire. Videos shared online showed the refinery’s tank lid being blown into the air while thick black smoke rose above the Russian capital.   Russian officials said air defenses intercepted many drones during what was described as one of the largest attacks on Moscow since the war began. The refinery, a key fuel supplier for the city, was targeted for the second time this week. The strike caused disruptions, including temporary airport closures, as Ukraine continued its campaign against Russian energy infrastructure.