The White House honored Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with vibrant Indian culture. The Marine Band played 'Sare Jahan Se Accha Hindustan Hamara' twice, reminiscent of PM Modi's visit last year. Indian-American leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria commended the event, emphasizing the enduring US-India alliance. Guests enjoyed golgappa and khoya, adding diversity to the traditional menu alongside samosas. President Biden and VP Harris graced the occasion, highlighting the significance of cultural unity and diplomatic ties. As reported by PTI, the celebration showcased the White House's commitment to inclusivity and recognition of India's rich heritage.

Israeli protesters blocked aid trucks bound for Gaza, vandalizing food packages at a West Bank checkpoint. The trucks, carrying humanitarian aid from Jordan, were targeted by demonstrators from the right-wing Tzav 9 group. They claimed to be supporting Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The White House condemned the attack, calling it a "Total Outrage". The incident has sparked concerns about the desperate need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, where people are struggling to access basic necessities. The blockade has worsened the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The Supreme Court has reserved its order on the contempt notice issued to yoga guru Ramdev, his aide Balkrishna, and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd over misleading advertisements. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the apology submitted by Indian Medical Association president Dr RV Asokan. Ramdev and Balkrishna appeared in Supreme Court as ordered. Patanjali has three weeks to file affidavits on steps taken to recall misleading ads. The court acknowledged Ramdev's influence and encouraged its positive use, distinguishing between his yoga contributions and Patanjali products.

The billboard that collapsed in Ghatkopar's Pant Nagar, killing eight and injuring 69, was already under scrutiny by civic authorities for violations. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had issued a notice to the private agency, M/s Ego Media, to dismantle the structure and remove hoardings due to its oversized dimensions (120x120 feet, exceeding the allowed 40x40 feet). This was not the first warning, as the BMC's tree department had filed complaints against the agency in December 2023 and April 2024, citing the mysterious death of nearby trees. The tragedy could have been averted if the agency had complied with the orders.

The Indian Consulate in New York has announced that it will remain open on weekends and holidays to address emergency requirements of people. From May 10, the Consulate will be open from 2 pm to 4 pm on all holidays, including Saturdays and Sundays. This facility is only for genuine emergencies and not for regular consular services. Applicants must call the emergency helpline number before visiting the Consulate to ascertain the required documents and ensure their case falls under emergency services. The facility is limited to emergency travel documents, including emergency visas, certificates, and transportation of mortal remains.

The Supreme Court has granted bail to activist Gautam Navlakha in the Elgaar Parishad case, citing his advanced age and the prolonged trial. Navlakha, 70, has been in custody since April 2020 and was previously placed under house arrest in Navi Mumbai. The court ordered him to pay Rs 20 lakh towards security expenses during his house arrest and an additional Rs 1.64 crore for police personnel expenses. This development comes after the Bombay High Court granted bail in December, which was stayed by the Supreme Court. Navlakha's release is a significant development in the case, which relates to alleged links with Maoist groups.

Four hospitals in Delhi received bomb threat calls, prompting a swift response from authorities. The hospitals - Delhi State Cancer Institute, Dada Dev Hospital, Hedgewar Hospital, and Deep Chandra Bandhu Hospital - are being searched by bomb disposal squads. The calls are being verified, said the Delhi Fire Department. This incident comes after several schools in Delhi and other cities received hoax bomb emails, causing panic and heightened security measures. Previous threats were found to be fake, and investigations are ongoing. The authorities are taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a search for a new coach for the Indian men's cricket team. The new coach will take charge on July 1, 2024, and will be responsible for leading the team until December 31, 2027. This means that Rahul Dravid's tenure as coach will end after the 2024 T20 World Cup. Applicants must have coaching experience and a strong playing history. The last day to apply is May 27. The BCCI has made it clear that there will be only one coach for all formats of the game, ruling out separate coaches for different formats. BCCI secretary Jay Shah had claimed last week Rahul Dravid can reapply for the position.

Indian athlete Parvej Khan’s story is a perfect reminder that dreams have no boundaries and that with perseverance, even the stars are within reach. He was born in Haryana’s Mewat District in Chahalka Village, which is nearly 50 km south of New Delhi. Coming from a humble farming family, Parvej left his village at the age of 13 to pursue his passion for sports. He trained rigorously in Delhi and Bhopal, and his hard work paid off when he won gold at the U16 nationals and bronze at the Khelo India Youth Games. He continued to excel, winning gold at the 2022 National Games and setting a personal best time of 3:40.89s in the 1500m race. His talent and dedication earned him a scholarship to the University of Florida, where he joined the Florida Gators athletics team and made his debut at the NCAA Championships in Boston earlier this year.

Air India and Vistara held their first joint townhall meeting to address employee concerns ahead of their merger. The meeting, attended by over 20,000 employees, aimed to alleviate fears over career progression, pay, and job security. CEO Campbell Wilson and Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan addressed concerns, including the reduction of flying time and salaries for Vistara pilots. Wilson assured that 120 pilots have been seconded between the airlines and an integrated pilot upgrade sequence will be created to maintain seniority. The leadership team will comprise Wilson, Kannan, and Aloke Singh, CEO of Air India Express.