Meta has begun introducing paid features and subscription-based services across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, marking a shift from its traditionally free-to-use model. The move is driven by rising costs linked to artificial intelligence development, content moderation, and large-scale infrastructure expansion. While core services remain free, users may now pay for premium tools, enhanced privacy options, and advanced business features. The company says the changes aim to diversify revenue beyond advertising and support long-term platform sustainability. The rollout has sparked debate over digital accessibility, with users concerned about potential limits on free social media experiences. (PC: NDTV)

Fans have set a new attendance record during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, with stadiums reporting unprecedented turnout across multiple host cities. The tournament has drawn massive global interest, reflecting rising popularity of international football and improved fan engagement initiatives. Organizers highlighted near-capacity crowds in several matches, boosted by expanded venues and increased travel accessibility. The surge in attendance also reflects strong diaspora support for participating nations. Authorities credited efficient ticketing systems and security arrangements for smooth operations. Analysts say the trend signals a commercial and cultural milestone for the sport, with expectations of continued turnout in knockout fixtures. (PC: Yahoo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the G7 summit, urging developed nations to strengthen global cooperation and ensure that vulnerable countries are not left alone to bear the burden of economic, geopolitical, and climate-related shocks. He emphasized that developing nations often suffer the most from global disruptions such as wars, supply chain instability, and climate change, despite contributing the least to them. Modi called for a fair and inclusive global economic framework, improved financial support systems, and technology sharing. His remarks highlighted India’s push for equity-driven global governance and stronger multilateral cooperation. (PC: X)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump held a warm and friendly meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Évian, France, their first in-person interaction in 16 months. According to reports, Trump described the encounter as “calm, cool and totally killer,” highlighting the positive chemistry between the two leaders. Discussions covered trade, investment, supply chains, artificial intelligence, and regional security. The meeting signaled renewed momentum in India-U.S. relations as both countries continue negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement and seek closer cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Speaking at the G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the United States could “go back to shooting” if Iran failed to comply with a proposed agreement aimed at ending hostilities. Trump stressed that the current arrangement is only a memorandum of understanding and not a final deal. Meanwhile, G7 leaders welcomed the U.S.-Iran framework and jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, along with efforts to curb Hezbollah’s influence. The leaders also emphasized preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and pledged support for regional stability and reconstruction. (PC: Reuters)

The Indian government has suspended access to the Telegram messaging app nationwide until June 22, 2026, citing concerns over its alleged misuse in leaking examination material ahead of the NEET-UG re-test scheduled for June 21. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology acted following recommendations from the National Testing Agency to curb organized exam fraud. Some Telegram features may remain restricted until June 30. The move has sparked debate over digital freedoms, with Telegram challenging the order in court and founder Pavel Durov criticizing the ban as affecting millions of legitimate users. (PC: X)

A leaked 14-point memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran outlines a major diplomatic breakthrough aimed at ending hostilities and reviving Iran's economy. Under the proposed agreement, Iran pledges never to develop nuclear weapons, while the U.S. would ease sanctions on Iranian oil, petrochemicals, and banking sectors. The framework also includes facilitating at least $300 billion in financing and releasing frozen Iranian assets. The two sides are expected to hold final negotiations within 60 days, with any comprehensive agreement requiring international approval and strict monitoring mechanisms. The deal marks a significant step toward reducing tensions in the Middle East. (PC: AP)

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 captures global attention, India remains absent from the tournament despite its population of 1.4 billion and passionate football fan base. Former captain Baichung Bhutia says India has the talent but lacks a strong grassroots system and long-term planning. The national team has slipped to 136th in FIFA rankings and failed to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Experts point to poor football infrastructure, administrative challenges and competition from cricket as major obstacles. While AIFF hopes reforms and overseas Indian players can help, World Cup qualification remains a distant goal. (PC: BBC)

Argentina captain Lionel Messi revealed he cried after scoring against Algeria in the FIFA World Cup 2026 because of personal struggles he had faced in recent days. The 38-year-old scored a historic hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory, equalling Miroslav Klose’s record for most World Cup goals. Messi said the emotional moment had nothing to do with football and thanked his teammates for supporting him through a difficult period. He described his current World Cup journey as the “cherry on top” of his career, while coach Lionel Scaloni praised the veteran star’s remarkable performance.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are expected to hold a crucial bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, with trade, defence cooperation and the West Asia situation high on the agenda. The meeting comes amid strains in India-US ties over tariffs and regional security concerns. Earlier, Modi participated in discussions on sustainable economic growth and held meetings with European leaders. G7 nations also welcomed the US-Iran peace framework and reaffirmed support for Ukraine. Leaders discussed critical minerals, North Korea’s nuclear programme, migration, cybercrime and global economic challenges. (PC: HT)