India's food safety regulator, FSSAI, orders tests on MDH and Everest spice brands after Hong Kong banned their sale due to alleged presence of cancer-causing pesticide. The inspections will check for ethylene oxide, a harmful substance linked to cancer. Hong Kong authorities found the pesticide in some spice mixes, prompting a recall. Singapore also directed a recall. MDH and Everest, popular brands in Indian kitchens and abroad, face scrutiny over their products' safety. Founded by Dharampal Gulati and Vadilal Shah respectively, both companies have a global presence in spice trade.

India initiates "Mission ISHAN" to merge airspace regions into one, centered in Nagpur, aiming for better air traffic management. The move will enhance airline operations, reduce congestion, and shorten flight times, benefiting passengers. With domestic air travel booming, the plan aims to double passenger traffic by 2030. Challenges include technology integration, process changes, and training for air traffic controllers, requiring time and investment. Despite hurdles, the unified airspace promises efficiency and safety, marking a significant step in India's aviation evolution.

Five earthquakes rattled Shoufeng Township, Hualien County, in eastern Taiwan within a span of just nine minutes. The seismic activity occurred between 5:08 pm and 5:17 pm (local time), as reported by Central News Agency Focus Taiwan. The US Geological Survey recorded the most significant quake at magnitude 6.5. This event comes two weeks after a powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter Scale struck Taiwan's eastern shores, leaving four dead and over 700 injured. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties from the recent series of earthquakes.

Indians traveling to Europe can now apply for multiple entry Schengen visas for up to five years, as the European Commission introduces new rules. The move aims to enhance people-to-people contact between India and the EU. Under the new regime, frequent travelers with an established history can obtain long-term visas, starting with two-year validity and extending to five years. These changes reflect strengthened relations under the EU-India common agenda on migration and mobility. Schengen visas grant free travel within 29 European countries, facilitating short stays of up to 90 days.

The Election Commission of India establishes a task force to review heatwave effects five days before each remaining phase of Lok Sabha polling amid ongoing intense heatwave. Comprising officials from the poll panel, IMD, NDMA, and Health Ministry, the task force aims to ensure voter well-being. Additional measures include instructions for election operations, arrangements for polling stations, and public awareness campaigns on heatwave precautions. With voting ongoing and scheduled until June 1, the Commission prioritizes voter comfort and safety. Counting of votes for all 543 constituencies slated for June 4.

Israeli military intelligence chief Major General Aharon Haliva steps down, taking responsibility for lapses leading to deadliest attack in Israel's history on 7 October. Haliva calls for state commission of inquiry to investigate circumstances. Haliva's resignation sets stage for potential fallout from top security officials. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu promises accountability. Hamas attack resulted in over 1,200 casualties, mostly civilians. Haliva's retirement pending selection of successor. Israeli Defense Forces continue investigations into intelligence failures.

Drone and missile strikes targeted Isfahan province in Iran, hitting a region housing the S-300 air defence system and nuclear facility. Reports suggest Israeli origin, though Israel neither confirms nor denies. Satellite images reveal damage to the Russian-supplied defence system. Iran denies detection of incoming threats. Western officials suggest Israel aimed to bypass Iran's defence undetected. Concerns over the formidable S-300 system's supply to Iran persist. Russia delivered the system in 2016 after years of negotiation, sparking tensions with Israel. The extent of damage and weapons used remain unclear as both sides refute claims.

An exclusive source confirms that one of the wedding functions for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant will be held at Stoke Park estate in London in July. Invitations sent to Bollywood celebrities for the extravagant celebration, featuring a detailed dress code and theme. Nita Ambani actively overseeing preparations for the lavish affair, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests. The Ambani family renowned for grandeur and hospitality, guaranteeing an opulent event for friends and family. Notable guests expected include Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Bachchan family, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and more.

Global military expenditure reached an unprecedented $2.4 trillion in 2023, with India ranking fourth globally, spending $83.6 billion. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) highlighted increased spending in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, citing heightened security concerns. China and Russia also saw significant spikes in military expenditure. Notably, NATO members collectively accounted for 55% of global military spending, with the USA alone representing 68% of NATO's total expenditure. Rising tensions and conflicts, including Israel's offensive in Gaza and Russia's actions in Ukraine, contributed to the surge in military spending worldwide.

Delhi court has dismissed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's plea seeking 15 minutes of daily medical consultation with his doctor in Tihar jail. Despite Kejriwal's request to allow video conferences with his doctor, the court ruled against it. Instead, it directed jail authorities to provide necessary medical treatment and consult AIIMS for special medical needs. Kejriwal, under judicial custody for a money laundering case related to Delhi's liquor excise policy, had sought medical attention due to his insulin regimen. The court also dismissed a plea for his release on "extraordinary interim bail," imposing a fine.