In a pivotal moment during the IPL 2025 Final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, Punjab Kings' captain Shreyas Iyer was dismissed for just 1 run, dealing a significant blow to his team's chase of 191 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The breakthrough came in the 10th over when Romario Shepherd, who had earlier dropped a catch, redeemed himself by taking Iyer's wicket. At the time of his dismissal, Punjab Kings were at 88/3 in 11 overs, needing 103 runs from 54 balls. Iyer's early exit has tilted the momentum in RCB's favor, intensifying the contest for their maiden IPL title. (PC: X/IPL)

India’s active Covid-19 caseload has crossed 4,000, rising sharply within three days of breaching the 3,000 mark, according to the Health Ministry. On Tuesday, the country recorded 65 fresh cases and five deaths. Kerala reported the highest number of infections (1,416), followed by Maharashtra (494) and Gujarat (397). Delhi, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh also saw triple-digit spikes. The reported deaths include elderly patients with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and acute respiratory conditions. Despite 512 recoveries in 24 hours, the upward trend is being closely monitored amid concerns of a possible resurgence. (PC: HT) 

At least 27 Palestinians were killed and dozens injured near an aid distribution site in Rafah, Gaza, after Israeli forces opened fire, according to local officials. Eyewitnesses described "gunfire from all directions" as civilians approached the site, with tanks, helicopters, and drones reportedly involved. The IDF claimed it fired at suspects who deviated from designated routes and posed a threat. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, overseeing aid distribution, denied involvement and blamed movements beyond its zone. The UN called for an independent investigation, saying people were being forced to choose between "starvation or being shot" while seeking aid. (PC: Getty Images)

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh expressed surprise after Magnus Carlsen revealed he might step away from classical chess following his defeat in Round 6 of the Norway Chess tournament. “I did not see that coming… it’s a bit sad for the others, but it’s his decision,” Gukesh said after hearing the news. Carlsen, frustrated by a late blunder that handed Gukesh victory, questioned his motivation, saying, “Why am I doing this?” Though he praised Gukesh’s fighting spirit, Carlsen admitted he no longer enjoys the classical format and may focus on blitz or rapid, hinting at a major shift in his career. (PC: 

The AX-4 mission to the International Space Station, featuring Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, has been postponed to June 10, two days later than planned. Launched by Axiom Space via SpaceX’s Falcon-9, this marks India's entry into astronaut-led space biology experiments. Shukla, joined by crew from Poland and Hungary, will conduct over 60 scientific studies during the 14-day mission. He’ll also carry food developed by ISRO and DBT, showcasing Indian innovation in space nutrition. The mission’s findings are expected to aid India’s Gaganyaan project in 2027. Veteran US astronaut Peggy Whitson will command the crew. (PC: ANI)

In a dramatic IPL 2025 final, Punjab Kings restricted Royal Challengers Bengaluru to 190/9, thanks to a fiery final over from Arshdeep Singh, who claimed three crucial wickets and finished with figures of 3/40. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, PBKS capitalized on RCB’s inconsistent batting. Virat Kohli top-scored with a cautious 43 off 35 balls, but RCB kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Kyle Jamieson picked three wickets for RCB but was expensive, conceding 48 runs. With tight bowling from Chahal, Omarzai, and Vyshak, PBKS will now chase 191 to clinch their first-ever IPL title. (PC: BCCI)

Singer Shankar Mahadevan gave a special performance to honour the Indian armed forces before the IPL 2025 final in Ahmedabad on June 3. The show was a tribute to the brave soldiers of Operation Sindhoor, held by the army after the Pahalgam terror attack. Mahadevan sang patriotic songs like Bharat, Ae Watan, Lakshya, and Vande Mataram, with his sons Siddharth and Shivam joining him on stage. The performance was full of emotion and made the crowd wave Indian flags. Mahadevan said he felt proud and lucky to sing at such a big event, especially with his sons. 

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has officially adopted the term “Kulguru” in place of “Kulpati” as the Hindi designation for Vice-Chancellor, in a move toward gender-neutral language. Proposed by current VC Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit, the change was approved by the university’s working council. Pandit emphasized that institutional titles must reflect inclusivity and avoid gender bias. The term "Kulguru" aligns with India’s ancient guru-shishya tradition and mirrors similar reforms in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. JNU's decision marks a broader shift in academia towards inclusive representation and respectful terminology for leadership roles. (PC: News18)

In the IPL 2025 final at Ahmedabad, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bowl against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Both teams remain unchanged as they chase their first-ever IPL title. RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, are in their fourth final, having lost three previously, while PBKS return to the summit clash for the first time since 2014. Iyer candidly admitted to feeling “nerves” ahead of the big game. Virat Kohli was seen rallying RCB with a passionate pre-match huddle. Rain remains a concern. The closing ceremony featured Shankar Mahadevan's tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. (PC: X/IPL)

The UK will invest £2bn in drones to make its army “10 times more lethal,” Defence Secretary John Healey announced as part of a sweeping strategic defence review. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move will make Britain “battle-ready,” with a focus on integrating drones, AI, and conventional warfare. The plan includes a drone centre, increased munitions stockpiles, new nuclear investments, and a revived home guard. The British Army’s size will rise to 76,000. Despite criticism over vague timelines for hitting 3% GDP defence spending, Starmer pledged readiness amid global threats. The review signals a post-Ukraine shift in UK defence priorities. (PC: The Guardian )