India is now the third-largest economy in the world by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), a position it has held since 2009, according to IMF data. While recent claims by NITI Aayog's CEO suggest India overtook Japan to become the fourth-largest economy in nominal GDP terms, a deeper look reveals that India’s PPP-based GDP already ranks it behind only the US and China. However, India’s per capita income remains low, indicating that average prosperity still lags far behind developed nations. Experts urge shifting focus from GDP rankings to improving individual incomes and real standards of living. (PC: The Indian Express)

Actor-politician Kamal Haasan’s claim that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” has triggered protests in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticised the remark, saying, “Kannada language has a very long history… he doesn’t know.” The comment was made during a film event in Chennai with actor Shivarajkumar present. Protesters in Belagavi, Bengaluru, and Mysuru burned posters and warned of blocking Haasan’s film Thug Life unless he apologises. BJP leader B.Y. Vijayendra said, “This is an insult to 6.5 crore Kannadigas.” Kannada groups called the remark arrogant and disrespectful, urging artists to show respect to all languages, especially their own. (PC: The Week)

Actor Kamal Haasan is facing backlash after saying, “Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil,” at a Chennai event. Kannada actor Shivarajkumar was also present. The remark upset many in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “Poor Kamal Haasan, he is unaware of Kannada’s history.” BJP leader Vijayendra Yediyurappa called the comment “the height of arrogance” and said Haasan must apologise. Protesters are demanding a ban on his new film Thug Life. They say artists should respect all languages. Haasan leads the Makkal Needhi Maiam party, which has been active in elections since 2019. (PC: India Today)

On Thursday evening, May 29, 2025, India will conduct civil defence mock drills in the border districts of Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir. These exercises aim to test the readiness of air raid warning systems, control rooms, and civil defence services, including firefighting, rescue operations, and evacuation protocols. The drills follow India's recent Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror sites in Pakistan, and are part of heightened security measures amid ongoing tensions between the two nations. Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain alert and follow safety protocols during the drills. (PC: PTI)

On May 28, 2025, the Supreme Court of India upheld its stay on the arrest of Madhya Pradesh Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, who faces legal scrutiny for derogatory remarks made against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a decorated Indian Army officer known for her leadership during Operation Sindoor. The apex court also concluded the suo motu proceedings initiated by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which had previously ordered the registration of an FIR against Shah, describing his comments as "gutter language." Despite Shah's video apology labeling his remarks a "linguistic mistake," the Supreme Court dismissed it as insincere and established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter. Colonel Qureshi, renowned for her contributions to military communications and cyber warfare, continues to receive widespread support amid the controversy. (PC: ANI)

On May 28, 2025, BJP MLA Thounaojam Radheshyam announced that 44 MLAs, excluding five from Congress, are ready to form a new government in Manipur. This declaration followed a meeting with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan, where Radheshyam and nine other MLAs conveyed their intent. The Manipur Legislative Assembly comprises 60 seats, with the BJP holding 32. Ten MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community, including seven from the BJP, have been advocating for a separate Union Territory. The state has been under President's Rule since February 13, following Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's resignation amid ethnic violence that began in May 2023, resulting in over 260 deaths and displacing around 60,000 people. (PC: The Print & Hindustan)

India is set to conduct civil defence mock drills on May 29 in four border states—Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir—following Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror sites in Pakistan. These exercises aim to enhance emergency preparedness amid escalating tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. The drills will simulate scenarios like air raids and evacuations to ensure readiness among security forces and civilians. This initiative follows Operation Abhyaas, a nationwide drill on May 7 across 244 districts, marking India's most extensive civil defence exercise since 1971. The government emphasizes these drills are precautionary measures to bolster national security and public safety. (PC: News Arena & PTI)

Gnanasekaran, accused in the 2024 Anna University sexual assault case, has been found guilty by a Mahila court in Chennai. The 51-year-old, who ran a biryani stall near the campus and had a criminal history of over 20 petty crimes, assaulted a 19-year-old student on December 23, 2024. The incident sparked massive protests and political uproar across Tamil Nadu. Students' groups and women’s rights organizations demanded justice and improved campus safety. Opposition parties accused the ruling DMK of negligence, citing photos of Gnanasekaran with DMK leaders. The court will announce the sentencing on June 2. (PC: PTI)

After years of heartbreak, Royal Challengers Bangalore have finished in the top two of the IPL 2025 league stage for the first time in nine seasons. Powered by Jitesh Sharma’s electrifying 85 off 33 balls in Lucknow, RCB pulled off a record chase to enter Qualifier 1 with confidence and momentum. Long haunted by their inability to close out key matches, RCB now seem composed and well-balanced ahead of their clash with Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. With star performances and renewed belief, fans wonder: could this finally be the year RCB shakes off its title drought and claims glory? (PC: AP)

  The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Moti Ram Jat, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, for allegedly leaking sensitive information to Pakistani intelligence officers. The arrest highlights serious concerns regarding internal security breaches and espionage within India's security forces. Further investigations are likely underway to assess the extent of information leaked and whether others are involved. (PC: The Hindu)