The flood situation in Assam has deteriorated, claiming 52 lives and displacing thousands. Over 24 lakh people across 30 districts are affected, with 35 districts severely impacted. The state has been battling its second wave of floods for a month, resulting in loss of life, infrastructure damage, crop destruction, and livestock loss. Thousands remain homeless, taking shelter in temporary camps. The situation remains grim, with no respite in sight. Relief efforts are underway, but the state's residents continue to face immense hardship.

The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) 2024 began today across India without any incidents, officials said. The exam was held under close watch of security and home ministry officials, following a recent row over the NEET exam. A command centre was set up at the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) headquarters in Delhi to monitor the exam. Officials reported successful downloading of content at all test centres and a smooth start to the examination. No untoward incidents have been reported so far.

The annual Amarnath Yatra was temporarily suspended on both routes to the cave shrine today due to heavy rainfall, officials said. The decision was made to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Over 1.5 lakh devotees have already visited the shrine and had darshan of the ice lingam. Intermittent heavy rainfall has been reported along the Baltal and Pahalgam routes since last night. The yatra will resume once the weather improves. Pilgrims' safety is the top priority, officials added.

Labour's Sir Keir Starmer assumes office as UK Prime Minister, convening his inaugural cabinet meeting today. In a largely unchanged shadow cabinet, key appointments include Rachel Reeves as Chancellor, Yvette Cooper as Home Secretary, Wes Streeting as Health Secretary, Bridget Phillipson as Education Secretary, and David Lammy as Foreign Secretary. Notably, Sir Patrick Vallance, former UK Chief Scientific Adviser, takes on the Science Minister role. Starmer's new government prioritizes stability and continuity, building on Labour's historic election victory.

Justin Bieber made a quick exit from India after his high-paying performance at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's sangeet in Mumbai. The Canadian pop star reportedly earned $10 million for his hour-long show. Bieber rushed to the airport, declining photo requests from paparazzi. His brief visit was marked by a lavish performance, but no public appearances or interactions with the media. The singer's hasty departure suggests a strictly professional trip, with no time for fanfare or publicity. Bieber's performance was the highlight of the high-profile wedding celebrations.

Controversial Godman Bhole Baba has broken his silence over the deadly stampede at his gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, which claimed 121 lives. In a video statement, he expressed sadness and appealed for faith in the government and administration. He also vowed that those responsible for the chaos would not be spared. Through his lawyer, he requested the committee to support the bereaved families and injured individuals. This comes days after the tragic incident that shocked the nation. Bhole Baba's statement is seen as an attempt to salvage his image amid mounting criticism. [Video Courtesy: ANI]

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo comforted teammate Pepe after their Euro quarterfinal defeat to France in a penalty shootout. The loss marked a potentially final major tournament together for the aging stars. Pepe, 41, wept on Ronaldo's shoulder, while Ronaldo, who will be 41 by the 2026 World Cup, also showed emotion. Questions surround Ronaldo's ability to continue at the highest level, where he holds records for international goals (130) and appearances (212). The defeat echoes Portugal's 2022 World Cup quarterfinal exit, where Ronaldo left the field in tears. The moment highlights the end of an era for Portugal's golden generation.

As Rishi Sunak resigned as UK PM, his wife Akshata Murty's dress stole the spotlight, sparking a social media frenzy. The £395 (Rs 42,000) dress was mocked for its color and pattern, with users making light-hearted jokes. While the UK election result and Sunak's defeat dominated discussions, Murty's outfit became an unlikely talking point. The incident highlights the scrutiny public figures face, even in difficult moments. Despite the trolls, Murty remained poised, watching her husband's speech outside Downing Street. The episode adds a lighter note to an otherwise intense political moment in British history.

Newly appointed UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has expressed his desire to strengthen bilateral ties with India. The Labour politician, who has fondly referred to EAM S Jaishankar as a 'friend', plans to visit India within his first month in office. This move is seen as a positive gesture towards bolstering relations between the two nations. Lammy's visit is expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in various areas, including trade, defense, and culture. This development is being closely watched in New Delhi, with officials welcoming Lammy's enthusiasm for engagement with India.

Shashi Tharoor mocked the BJP's election prediction, saying "ab ki baar, 400 paar" happened, but in the UK, not in India. The Labour Party won 412 seats in the UK election, contrasting with the BJP's failed prediction of securing over 400 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Despite claims of winning over 370 seats, the BJP won 240, and the NDA secured 293. Tharoor's comment highlights the difference between the BJP's predictions and their actual performance. The Congress leader's remark is a jab at the BJP's overconfidence and inaccurate polling projections.