A devastating heatwave in Odisha's Rourkela city has claimed the lives of 10 people, with temperatures soaring to extreme highs. The deaths occurred within a span of six hours, with most victims arriving at the hospital already deceased. Body temperatures were recorded at a scorching 103-104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heatwave conditions persist across Odisha, particularly in the western region, with 12 places recording temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius. The identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed. The incident highlights the severe impact of the ongoing heatwave.

Hamas has announced its readiness for a "complete agreement" with Israel, contingent on Israel ceasing its military actions in Gaza. This proposal includes a comprehensive exchange of hostages and prisoners. Previous ceasefire talks have stalled due to disagreements over terms, with Hamas accepting a modified version of an agreement initially approved by Israel. Allegations have surfaced that changes were made by an Egyptian intelligence member, complicating negotiations. The U.S., Qatar, and Egypt are expected to renew diplomatic efforts. Israel maintains it will not agree to a lasting ceasefire and will continue operations until Hamas is neutralized.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared the official onset of the southwest monsoon in Kerala today, ahead of its usual June 1 schedule. Strong westerly winds and a shear zone are set to bring heavy rains (64.5 mm-115.4 mm) over Kerala and Mahe for the next five days. An orange alert has been issued, urging locals to prepare for intense weather, followed by a yellow alert. Heavy rains are also forecasted for Tamil Nadu and South Interior Karnataka from June 1 to 3. Fisherfolk are advised to avoid the sea due to rough conditions. Residents should follow advisories and take precautions.              

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Indian Army Major Radhika Sen as a "true leader and role model" while presenting her with the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award. Major Sen, serving in the Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), was honored for her exemplary service, particularly in engaging with conflict-affected communities. She expressed gratitude on behalf of her colleagues and emphasized the importance of gender-sensitive peacekeeping. Major Sen is the second Indian Peacekeeper to receive this honor, highlighting India's significant contribution to UN peacekeeping efforts, with nearly 2,000 Indian personnel serving in MONUSCO.

The Indian cricket team, preparing for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA, has expressed concerns about the "average" practice facilities at Cantiague Park. Coach Rahul Dravid reportedly finds the makeshift pitches and other amenities inadequate. The team, minus Virat Kohli who is expected to join soon, has been adjusting to morning training sessions for the tournament's early starts. The ICC, however, stated there have been no complaints about the facilities. India aims to end its ICC trophy drought, having not won since the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Mungeshpur, a village on Delhi’s northwestern fringe, hit a record-breaking 52.3°C on Wednesday, making it India’s hottest place. Streets were deserted, shops shuttered, and residents stayed indoors to escape the searing heat. Local farmer Ashok Kumar reported struggling to keep livestock cool, while 74-year-old Om Prakash recalled milder summers of his youth. Water shortages exacerbate the crisis, with villagers relying on costly private tankers. The India Meteorological Department's station at the village school recorded the historic temperature, highlighting the urgent need for governmental intervention.

Ninth seed Jelena Ostapenko was eliminated in the second round of the French Open by Denmark's Clara Tauson. The 2017 champion lost 6-7 (4), 6-4, 3-6 in a match extending over 2 hours and 21 minutes on Court 13, disrupted by rain delays. Meanwhile, fifth seed Marketa Vondrousova overcame a first-set bagel to defeat American Katie Volynets, winning 0-6, 6-1, 6-2. Eleventh seed Danielle Collins also exited, losing to Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic 6-7(3), 7-5, 6-4. Matches will start early on Friday to manage the tight schedule.

Sixteen people died from heat-related causes in just two hours at a district hospital in Aurangabad, Bihar, where temperatures soared to 44°C. The city recorded a state-high of 48.2°C the previous day. The hospital, treating 35 more heat-affected patients, has sufficient medical supplies and cooling arrangements, according to officials. Bihar's government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions until June 8 due to the intense heat, which has caused multiple students to faint. Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for the government's inadequate response to the crisis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a 45-hour meditation at Kanyakumari's Vivekananda Rock Memorial, starting from Thursday evening till June 1. Modi offered prayers at the Bhagavathy Amman Temple before heading to the memorial. Security measures were intensified with 2,000 police personnel deployed, along with surveillance by the Indian Coast Guard and Navy. The Congress opposed Modi's visit, alleging violation of the model code of conduct. Meanwhile, campaigning for the final phase of Lok Sabha polls in 57 seats across seven states and Chandigarh ended, with Modi conducting over 206 public outreach programs since March 16.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced backlash for sporting a £750 Tumi backpack during a campaign visit to impoverished areas. Sunak's flaunting of luxury items, including £490 Prada shoes and £180 Ember mug, sparked criticism over his perceived disconnect from citizens' financial struggles. His £651 million fortune, largely from wife Akshata Murty's stake in Infosys, amplifies scrutiny. Sunak's allocation of £1.5 billion from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for his National Service plan drew ire, potentially depriving struggling regions of vital funds. Despite controversy, Sunak appeared upbeat, citing enjoyment of his train journey to Cornwall.