In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed strong support for India. He condemned the attack as a "cowardly act of terrorism" and assured that the U.S. would "do everything we can" to assist India in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Johnson emphasized the importance of the U.S.-India partnership in combating terrorism and maintaining regional stability. He also highlighted the need for international collaboration to prevent such attacks in the future. The Pahalgam attack, targeting tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, has drawn widespread international condemnation and intensified calls for global action against terrorism. (PC: Reuters)

Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, India will conduct nationwide civil defence drills on May 7 across 259 locations—the first such exercise since 1971. The drills, involving air raid sirens, blackout protocols, and public training, aim to bolster preparedness for potential emergencies. Home Secretary Govind Mohan chaired a meeting with Chief Secretaries and Civil Defence Chiefs to coordinate efforts, focusing on 244 Civil Defence Districts, particularly in border states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, and the Northeast. Citizens are advised to keep torches, candles, and cash ready during the drills. (PC: India Today)

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has consistently urged India to exercise restraint during key national security events, including the 2019 Pulwama attack, the abrogation of Article 370, and the enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Following the Pahalgam massacre, where 26 civilians were killed, Guterres condemned the violence but did not address the attackers' targeting based on religious identity. His statements, often referencing the 1972 Simla Agreement, have been perceived by New Delhi as biased, especially when made from Islamabad. The Indian government views Guterres' remarks as misrepresenting internal matters and continues to focus on counterterrorism efforts, particularly in response to threats from Pakistan-based groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba. (PC: Hindustan Times)

India made a powerful mark at the Met Gala 2025 as Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Priyanka Chopra, and Kiara Advani dazzled on fashion’s biggest stage. SRK made his grand debut in a royal black Sabyasachi outfit with gold jewels, striking his iconic pose. Kiara glowed in a Gaurav Gupta gown, debuting her pregnancy in style. Diljit impressed with a regal Maharaja look, even receiving a shoutout from Shakira. Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas turned heads in old Hollywood-inspired fashion. From Bollywood royalty to Punjabi pop pride, India’s stars owned the night, proving fashion and culture go hand-in-hand. (PC: X)

In response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, the Indian government has directed northern and western states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, to conduct civil defense drills on May 7. These exercises will involve activating air raid sirens, implementing blackouts, and training civilians, including students, on safety protocols. Evacuation rehearsals and camouflaging vital installations are also planned. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met Japanese counterpart Nakatani Gen, condemning Pakistan's cross-border terrorism and emphasizing regional security. Japan expressed solidarity with India. These measures aim to bolster civilian preparedness amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control. (PC: PTI & Newsonair)

A tragic boat accident off the coast near San Diego, California, has left three people dead, four injured, and seven missing. Among the missing are two Indian children, while their parents are being treated in hospital. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has offered full support to the affected family. The capsized vessel, suspected to be used by migrants, overturned early Monday morning. Authorities found 18 life vests, damaged equipment, and personal belongings at the site. Multiple agencies, including the US Coast Guard, are conducting search operations. The cause of the accident is still under investigation. (PC: NDTV)

The 2025 Met Gala wowed fans with bold fashion inspired by the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” This year’s event focused on menswear and Black culture in fashion. Celebrities like A$AP Rocky, Rihanna, Zendaya, and Demi Moore wore unique outfits that mixed style with powerful messages. A$AP Rocky wore a suit he designed himself, while Rihanna revealed her third pregnancy in a dramatic dress. Diana Ross wore a gown with her family’s names stitched into it. The night was full of suits, feathers, and colorful looks that celebrated Black style and identity in a big way. (PC: Getty Images)

US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday pledged unwavering support for India in its fight against terrorism, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Speaking amid rising Indo-Pak tensions, Johnson emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to providing energy and resources to bolster India's counter-terrorism efforts. He reaffirmed the strategic importance of US-India relations, stating that terrorism remains a global threat that must be confronted together. Johnson’s remarks underscore growing international solidarity with India, as global powers call for accountability and action against terror networks. His statement signals deepening cooperation between New Delhi and Washington in combating cross-border extremism. (PC: India Today)

At the 2025 Met Gala, fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherji set the record straight when Met Gala hosts seemed unaware of Shah Rukh Khan’s global fame. As SRK made his much-anticipated debut in a bespoke Black Dandy ensemble, fans chanted his name outside the venue. During an interview, Sabyasachi stepped in, calling him “the most famous man in the world” and highlighting the near-stampede caused by his presence. SRK, ever humble, said he was there to impress his kids. The custom ensemble, rich in detail and symbolism, represented his global cinematic legacy with regal elegance and Indian artistry.

In a closed-door consultation, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) strongly criticized Pakistan over the alleged involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including tourists and a local operator. UNSC members rejected Pakistan’s “false flag” claims and raised concerns over its escalating nuclear rhetoric and recent missile tests. The council called for accountability and urged Islamabad to rein in terror groups operating from its soil. UN Chief Antonio Guterres emphasized restraint, stating that military escalation is not a solution. India had earlier suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the attack. (PC: AP)