India achieved a landmark milestone in its space journey as Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched Vikram-1, the country's first privately developed orbital rocket, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The maiden mission, named Mission Aagaman, carried multiple technology demonstration payloads into low Earth orbit, proving the capabilities of India's growing private space sector. The successful launch marks a new chapter in commercial space exploration, strengthening collaboration between ISRO and private companies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team, calling the achievement a proud moment that showcases India's innovation and the rising global potential of its private space industry. (PC: Skyroot)

Opposition parties strongly criticised the Central government after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was removed from Jantar Mantar and shifted to Safdarjung Hospital following health concerns during his prolonged hunger strike. Leaders accused the government of suppressing a peaceful democratic protest and questioned the handling of Wangchuk's detention and hospitalisation. Several opposition figures described the action as undemocratic and demanded immediate dialogue with the protesters over their demands concerning alleged examination irregularities. The government and Delhi Police maintained that Wangchuk was moved solely on medical grounds after his health deteriorated, following medical advice and court directions. (PC: X)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk said he has lost nearly 20% of his body weight during his prolonged hunger strike, highlighting the physical toll of his protest. Speaking from hospital after being shifted due to deteriorating health, Wangchuk questioned why governments have fallen over issues like rising onion prices but not over students' concerns. He urged authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue and address demands for accountability over alleged examination irregularities. His remarks have intensified the ongoing debate, with public figures and supporters renewing calls for urgent government action and a peaceful resolution to the protest.

Actor Hrithik Roshan has expressed solidarity with climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk amid his ongoing hunger strike. Sharing a heartfelt message on social media, Hrithik described Wangchuk as a true inspiration whose courage and commitment continue to motivate millions. He urged people to stand by Wangchuk and hoped for a peaceful resolution through meaningful dialogue. Hrithik's support adds to a growing list of celebrities, including Kiran Rao and others, who have voiced concern over Wangchuk's deteriorating health and appealed to authorities to engage with his demands. 

The Department of Space has tightened resignation and voluntary retirement rules for ISRO scientists after reports that more than 100 scientific and technical personnel left the organisation in recent months. The new directive states that exit requests from scientists involved in critical missions, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, will no longer be routinely approved and must receive clearance from the Department of Space. The move reverses a 2020 policy that allowed ISRO centre directors to approve such requests. Officials said the step aims to retain experienced talent and ensure uninterrupted progress of India's flagship space missions. (PC: X)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar after his health deteriorated. The move followed medical concerns and a Delhi High Court directive to ensure his safety. Wangchuk has been fasting in support of student protesters demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in national entrance examinations. Authorities said the transfer was necessary to provide urgent medical care, while supporters continued demonstrations, urging the government to engage in dialogue and address the protesters' demands. (PC: PTI)

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)