The Delhi High Court has refused to halt counselling for NEET-UG admissions despite petitions alleging irregularities in the 2024 exam. Instead, it granted time for the National Testing Agency (NTA) to respond, scheduling the hearing for July 5. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta mentioned the NTA's transfer petition to consolidate cases in the Supreme Court. This decision follows the Supreme Court's refusal to stay counselling. NEET-UG, held on May 5, faced accusations of question paper leaks and unfair grace marks distribution, leading to protests nationwide. The unprecedented perfect scores of 67 candidates further fueled concerns.

Hezbollah, a militant group based in Lebanon, has declared its intention to intensify attacks on Israel following the killing of one of its senior commanders, Taleb Sami Abdallah. Hashem Safieddine, a prominent Hezbollah official, made the announcement during Abdallah's funeral, promising increased intensity, strength, quantity, and quality in their assaults. The escalation comes in response to Israel's strike in south Lebanon that claimed Abdallah's life. The vow signals heightened tensions between the two adversaries, raising concerns about the potential for further violence and instability in the region.

A devastating fire in Kuwait's Mangaf area claimed the lives of 41 Indians among 49 casualties. PM Modi extended condolences, dispatching aid to the injured and coordinating with local authorities for repatriation. Indian envoy Swaika visited hospitals, offering assistance to the injured. Investigations are ongoing, with Kuwait's deputy PM attributing the tragedy to real estate violations. The Indian Embassy set up a helpline as citizens grapple with the loss. Efforts continue to support those affected by the tragic incident.

In a remarkable comeback, N Chandrababu Naidu has been sworn in as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister for the fourth time, following his recent arrest in a money laundering case. The oath-taking ceremony witnessed the presence of PM Modi and other BJP leaders. Alongside, Pawan Kalyan and 23 others took the ministerial oath. The victory comes after the NDA secured a landslide victory in the state assembly polls, winning 164 out of 175 seats. Naidu emphasized his commitment to developing Amaravati as the sole capital.

Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a stellar performance, netting two goals as Portugal defeated the Republic of Ireland 3-0 in their final Euro 2024 warm-up match. Joao Felix also found the net, contributing to the convincing win for Roberto Martinez's side. Ronaldo, set to participate in his record sixth Euro tournament, displayed his prowess on the field, demonstrating his enduring impact on the Portuguese national team. The victory comes after Portugal's recent defeat by Croatia, reinstating confidence as they prepare for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament in Germany. Portugal's first match is against the Czech Republic on June 18.

In Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua, two terrorists were killed following a late-night attack in a village. A paramilitary soldier from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was also killed in the exchange. The terrorists, who opened fire after asking for water from villagers, were armed with a U.S.-made M4 carbine. The Additional Director General of Police, Anand Jain, described the attack as a "fresh infiltration." The encounter followed a recent attack in Reasi, where a bus carrying pilgrims was ambushed, leading to nine deaths. Security forces continue to monitor the area for any additional threats.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak disclosed in an ITV interview that his parents prioritized his education over luxuries like Sky TV. “There’ll be all sorts of things that I would’ve wanted as a kid that I couldn’t have. Famously, Sky TV,” Sunak remarked. Attending Winchester College, Sunak emphasized, “What is more important is my values and how I was raised. And I was raised in a household where hard work was really important.” Recorded after D-day celebrations, the interview drew criticism for Sunak leaving early. Sunak reflected on his upbringing, saying, “My parents worked very hard for what they had and they wanted their kids to have a better life.”

A devastating fire broke out early Wednesday in a building housing workers in Mangaf, Kuwait, killing 40 Indian nationals and injuring over 30. The blaze, which started in the kitchen of the six-storey structure, led to a rapid spread, overwhelming residents with smoke. The building, rented by NBTC, accommodated around 160 workers. Kuwaiti authorities are investigating the cause, suspecting overcrowding as a contributing factor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed condolences and pledged support for the affected. An emergency helpline has been established by the Indian Embassy in Kuwait for assistance.

Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi will assume the role of Chief of the Army Staff on June 30, succeeding Gen Manoj Pande. With a distinguished 40-year military career, Lt Gen Dwivedi has held key positions such as Vice Chief of Army Staff, Northern Command head, and Director General Infantry. A decorated officer, he received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal. A graduate of Sainik School Rewa, the National Defence College, and the US Army War College, he brings extensive strategic and operational expertise to his new role.

UK and Schengen countries collectively earned nearly $200 million from rejected visa application fees in 2023, according to the Lago Collective. Known as ‘reverse remittances,’ these non-refundable fees disproportionately affect applicants from low and middle-income nations, particularly in Africa and Asia. With rejection rates as high as 40-50% in countries like Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria, applicants face significant financial losses. Experts argue this creates a form of visa inequality, draining money from poorer to wealthier nations. The situation is expected to worsen as Schengen visa fees increase from €80 to €90.