Indian community leaders in Malaysia praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and India's progress under him at a Sadbhavana event in Kuala Lumpur. They lauded Modi's role in India's technological and economic advancement over the past decade and his vision for an inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The event, organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF), saw the passing of a 'Malaysia Resolution' pledging support for India's development and launching of a book on Modi's dialogues. Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu presided over the event, attended by dignitaries and members of the Indian community.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Ltd, clarified that her company did not make political donations via electoral bonds but stated she personally purchased and donated them to parties, including Janata Dal (Secular). She emphasized her donations were nominal and transparent. This clarification followed a social media claim of her monthly donations of Rs 5 crore before the Karnataka Assembly elections, which she refuted, urging for accurate calculations. Upon reevaluation, her total electoral bond donations amounted to Rs 6 crore. Mazumdar-Shaw's assertion underscores her commitment to funding election campaigns with transparent means.

Vladimir Putin clinched his fifth term as Russian President in a landslide victory, making him the longest-serving leader since Joseph Stalin. Putin boasted of Russia's "transparent democracy" in his victory speech, taking a swipe at Western elections. Despite criticism and allegations of illegitimacy, Putin secured 87% of the vote, with a turnout of 74.22%, surpassing 2018's numbers. Critics argue that the elections were skewed in Putin's favor, with dissenting voices sidelined. Notably, Putin's main opponent, Alexei Navalny, died under suspicious circumstances in prison. With his extended tenure until 2030, Putin solidifies his grip on power amidst growing scrutiny both domestically and internationally.

Acclaimed American classical pianist Byron Janis, renowned for his virtuosity and mentorship under Vladimir Horowitz, passed away at 95 in New York City, confirmed by his wife Maria Cooper Janis. Emerging in the late 1940s, Janis captivated audiences globally and served as a cultural ambassador during the Cold War, notably performing in the Soviet Union. Despite battling arthritis for over half his life, he remained active, advocating for the Arthritis Foundation and composing for television and musicals. Janis's enduring passion for music persisted until his final days, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication.

In a mishap near Madar railway station in Rajasthan's Ajmer, four coaches of a high-speed train derailed overnight between Sunday and Monday. Numerous passengers were on board during the incident. Railway authorities swiftly established a support desk at Ajmer station and issued a helpline number, 0145-2429642, for assistance. The derailment underscores safety concerns within the rail network, prompting authorities to take prompt action in aiding affected passengers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledges to advance Israeli troops into Gaza's Rafah city, dismissing global apprehension over civilian risks. Amid escalating international pressure, Netanyahu asserts Israel's determination to fulfill war objectives. Concerns mount over the fate of over a million displaced Palestinians in Rafah, while military officials cite strategic imperatives to neutralize Hamas strongholds. Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza continue, with Israel proposing humanitarian shelters. Despite diplomatic appeals, Netanyahu reaffirms Israel's resolve, prompting criticism from allies and adversaries alike over escalating conflict dynamics.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh lambasts the BJP, alleging they orchestrated a scheme to funnel black money into party coffers through electoral bonds, as data reveals BJP received ₹6,900 crore, compared to Congress's ₹1,300 crore. Ramesh deems the scheme the "biggest extortion racket" by the ruling government. He points to companies swiftly purchasing bonds post-probe threats and alleges quid-pro-quo contracts with BJP. The Election Commission's release of bond data prompted scrutiny, revealing 1,260 entities purchasing ₹12,769 crore in bonds, with notable donors including SN Mohanty and Lakshmi Niwas Mittal. BJP denies wrongdoing.

Exit polls reveal a landslide victory for Vladimir Putin in Russia's presidential election, with an overwhelming majority voting for the incumbent. The Russian Public Opinion Research Centre reports 87.97% support for Putin, supported by FOM's 87.8% result. Official tallies corroborate the polls' accuracy. Putin faced limited opposition, with no critical challengers amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The outcome draws criticism from the US, denouncing the election as neither free nor fair. Putin's victory solidifies his position, prompting global scrutiny over democratic processes and Russia's political landscape.

Ahmedabad Police apprehended two individuals for attacking foreign students at Gujarat University during Ramadan prayers. Hitesh Mewada and Bharat Patel face charges including unlawful assembly, rioting, and causing injury. The assailants disrupted the students' prayers, vandalized hostel rooms, and injured two students. Police have registered FIRs against 25 individuals and formed nine probe teams. Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi instructed strict action, with efforts ongoing to apprehend remaining suspects. The incident underscores the importance of safeguarding religious freedoms and ensuring the safety of all individuals.

Chanakya, the beloved Galapagos giant tortoise at Nehru Zoological Garden, Hyderabad, passed away at the age of 125 due to age-related complications. Despite being offered his favorite diet, including sweet potato and spinach, he stopped eating for 10 days before peacefully passing in his sleep. Chanakya, along with a fellow 95-year-old tortoise, had been star attractions since the zoo's inauguration. Originally from Public Gardens in Nampally, he had resided in the zoo since 1963. The initial postmortem indicates multiple organ failure, with samples sent for further analysis. The zoo is renowned for its diverse wildlife conservation efforts.