The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has come under scrutiny after the iconic Indus Valley Civilisation "Dancing Girl" figurine appeared in an altered form in its new Class 9 art textbook. The image shows the famous bronze statue with its torso shaded and partially covered, unlike the original artefact that has featured in school books for decades. The change has triggered debate among historians and education experts, who argue that modifying a well-known historical object could affect its authenticity. NCERT officials said there was no specific reason behind the change, while reports said the matter is being reviewed. (PC: X)

Cape Verde produced the first big surprise of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by holding tournament favourites Spain to a goalless draw in their historic World Cup debut in Atlanta. The underdogs delivered a disciplined defensive performance, with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha making three crucial saves to frustrate the Spanish attack. Ferran Torres came closest for Spain after striking the crossbar, while a half-fit Lamine Yamal was introduced only for the final 20 minutes. Spain failed to score in a competitive first half for the first time in 18 months as Cape Verde celebrated a memorable point.  

A group of students walked out of Stanford University’s graduation ceremony while Google CEO Sundar Pichai was delivering his keynote speech. The protest was reportedly organised by activist groups opposing Google’s alleged contracts with the Israeli military and US government agencies. Despite the disruption, Pichai continued his speech and focused on career advice and optimism for graduates. He avoided detailed discussion on artificial intelligence and other technology issues. The incident highlighted ongoing debates on university campuses about the role of major technology companies in government and defence-related projects. Pichai is a Stanford alumnus and Google’s chief executive.

The United States and Iran have reached a tentative peace agreement aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The deal is expected to be officially signed in Switzerland on June 19. US President Donald Trump said the agreement does not include sanctions relief and depends on Iran meeting its commitments. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear programme but stressed that Israel’s fight was not over. “Iran will never get nuclear weapons,” Netanyahu said. Several countries and the United Nations have welcomed the proposed agreement as a step towards regional stability.

The United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending nearly four months of conflict. According to a senior US official, President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf approved the agreement, with a formal signing ceremony scheduled in Geneva on Friday. The MoU creates a 60-day negotiation period to resolve key issues, including Iran's nuclear programme. The deal is also expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route, while discussions continue over regional security and the situation in Lebanon. (PC: BBC)

FIFA is seeking an explanation from Australian VAR official Shaun Evans after he made a controversial hand gesture before Germany's 7-1 World Cup win over Curacao. During a pre-match broadcast, Evans appeared to form an upside-down "OK" sign with his right hand, a gesture that can have different meanings, including an internet prank and a symbol linked by some groups to white supremacist ideology. The incident sparked widespread debate on social media. Anti-discrimination organisations, including Fare and Kick It Out, have sought clarification. FIFA has not issued an official statement but is reportedly looking into the matter.  

Iran’s national football team has arrived in the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a breakthrough peace agreement between Washington and Tehran eased fears over the country’s participation. The team, which had been training in Mexico because of security and visa concerns, will open its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles. Players and coach Amir Ghalenoei acknowledged that recent conflicts and political tensions have overshadowed the usual excitement of the tournament. Despite expected protests from sections of the Iranian diaspora, the squad said it aims to represent and unite all Iranians through football. (PC: X)

Tensions flared in Manipur after a large crowd gathered outside a hospital in Imphal to protest the treatment of three Kuki men injured during an armed attack in Kangpokpi district. The protesters opposed admitting the victims to the valley-based medical facility, prompting authorities to deploy security forces and tighten arrangements around the hospital. The incident highlighted the continuing ethnic divide between Meitei and Kuki communities amid the prolonged conflict in the State. Officials appealed for calm and ensured medical care for the injured, while efforts were made to prevent the situation from escalating further. 

Indian-flagged LNG carrier Disha has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, becoming the first Indian vessel to exit the conflict-hit region in over three months. The transit comes after a breakthrough US-Iran peace agreement aimed at reopening the crucial maritime route and easing tensions in the Persian Gulf. The development signals a gradual revival of global energy shipments and has boosted optimism in oil and gas markets. Analysts say the restoration of traffic through the strategic chokepoint could stabilize energy prices and improve supply chains, although shipping companies remain cautious amid lingering security concerns.

India U-19 batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was involved in a tense altercation with Sri Lankan players following a dramatic Super Over finish in the Youth ODI series. Emotions ran high after Sri Lanka secured victory in the thrilling contest, leading to a heated exchange between players from both sides. Videos of the incident quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention from cricket fans. Despite the confrontation, officials and teammates intervened to defuse the situation. The match itself was marked by intense competition and a nail-biting Super Over that ultimately went in Sri Lanka's favor.