Filmmaker Kiran Rao has publicly backed activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding justice for students and action over alleged NEET examination irregularities. Expressing solidarity, Rao praised Wangchuk and fellow protesters for their peaceful movement, saying the nation owes them gratitude for awakening public conscience. She criticized the government's silence despite the prolonged fast and appealed for immediate dialogue to resolve the impasse. Her support comes amid growing concern from public figures over Wangchuk's health, adding momentum to calls for constructive engagement between the government and protesters. 

Prominent public figures have appealed to environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike while urging the Central government to initiate meaningful dialogue over his demands. Wangchuk's protest focuses on greater constitutional safeguards, environmental protection, and sustainable development for Ladakh. Supporters acknowledged the importance of his cause but expressed concern over the serious health risks posed by his prolonged fast. They stressed that discussions and democratic engagement offer the best path toward resolving the issue. As nationwide attention grows, pressure is mounting on the government to respond constructively and address the concerns raised by Wangchuk and his supporters. (PC: India Today)

Air India has successfully operated an ultra-long-haul flight carrying a pet, highlighting its growing commitment to pet-friendly travel. The journey marks a significant milestone after years of planning and operational improvements to accommodate animals safely on long-distance international routes. Airline officials ensured strict adherence to veterinary, safety, and welfare guidelines throughout the flight, prioritizing the pet’s comfort and health. The achievement reflects Air India’s efforts to enhance passenger services and meet the increasing demand for traveling with companion animals. The successful operation is expected to encourage more pet owners to consider long-haul international travel with their pets. (PC: ANI)

Actor Fatima Sana Shaikh has voiced support for activist Sonam Wangchuk on the 19th day of his hunger strike, describing the situation as “heartbreaking” and urging greater public attention to his demands. Sharing her concern on social media, she highlighted the importance of protecting Ladakh’s environment and safeguarding the rights of its people. Wangchuk’s indefinite fast seeks constitutional protections and stronger environmental safeguards for the region. Fatima’s statement adds to the growing list of public figures expressing solidarity, increasing pressure on authorities to engage in dialogue and address the concerns raised by the protesters. (PC: News18)

The Congress party has appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, expressing solidarity with his concerns while stressing that his health is becoming increasingly critical. Senior Congress leaders said Wangchuk's demands are shared by the Opposition and assured him that the party would continue raising the issue through democratic means. However, Rahul Gandhi's absence from the Jantar Mantar protest has drawn criticism, with opponents questioning Congress's commitment. Wangchuk's fast has attracted support from several political leaders and activists, intensifying pressure on the Centre to respond to the protesters' demands. (PC: X)

Gitanjali J. Angmo, wife of environmentalist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, has emerged as his strongest supporter during his ongoing hunger strike. An accomplished educator, social entrepreneur, and black belt karate champion, she co-founded the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL) alongside Wangchuk. The couple first met through their shared passion for transforming education in India. As Wangchuk's health remains a concern, Angmo has stood firmly beside him, advocating for his cause and highlighting his commitment to educational reform and sustainable development. Her unwavering support has drawn widespread public attention.

The Department of Space has tightened resignation and voluntary retirement rules for ISRO's Group 'A' scientists and engineers after reports that more than 100 personnel sought to leave in recent months. The directive instructs ISRO centres not to routinely accept exit requests from staff working on critical projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Any resignation request must now be sent to the Department of Space with the centre director's recommendations for final approval. The move aims to prevent disruptions to nationally important missions while addressing growing concerns over talent retention within India's premier space agency. (PC: ISRO)

Scientists have discovered 24-million-year-old fossilised leaves of the kewra (kevda) plant in Assam's Makum Coalfield, revealing that the species existed long before the Himalayas reached their present form and far before human civilisation. Researchers from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences found four exceptionally preserved leaves matching modern kewra plants. Published in the journal Geobios, the study suggests India served as a vital refuge for ancient tropical plant species during major climate changes. The discovery bridges a crucial gap in the plant's evolutionary history and offers valuable insights into biodiversity, climate evolution, and India's prehistoric ecosystems. (PC: Instagram)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has pledged to continue his indefinite hunger strike until July 20, despite doctors warning that his health has become critical after 20 days without food. Addressing supporters, Wangchuk said he would “stay alive till July 20 at any cost” to lead the planned Parliament march, adding in a light-hearted remark that he would “return as a ghost” if the movement failed. The protest, backed by the Cockroach Janta Party, demands accountability over alleged examination irregularities and broader reforms. Support for Wangchuk continues to grow as concerns over his deteriorating health intensify. (PC: PTI)

In a first for West Bengal, 36 Jadavpur University students observed a one-day symbolic hunger strike on Friday in solidarity with education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk and students continuing their indefinite fast at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The protest, held outside Triguna Sen Auditorium, sought to amplify demands for education reforms. Carrying placards reading "Scrap NTA" and "Dharmendra Pradhan Must Resign," participants called for greater accountability, transparency and dialogue in education policymaking. Organisers described it as Kolkata's first symbolic fast supporting Wangchuk's ongoing protest. Students said the demonstration reflected nationwide concerns over education policies and expressed solidarity with those continuing the hunger strike in the national capital of India. (PC: Shorts91)