The Election Commission of India is set to introduce a technology-driven system to expedite voter turnout updates, addressing concerns raised about delays in the past. Replacing manual reporting, presiding officers will now use the ECINET app to directly enter voter turnout figures every two hours and immediately after polls close.
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Reigning World Champion Gukesh is challenging World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen at the Norway Chess tournament. Carlsen, with 15 points, is closely trailed by Gukesh at 14.5. Following a loss to Gukesh, a frustrated Carlsen expressed his disillusionment with classical chess, even hinting at quitting. Despite a win against Caruana, Carlsen admits the tournament's enjoyment diminished after the Gukesh game.
Delhi experienced a slight temperature increase, followed by an overcast sky, gusty winds, and brief rainfall in several areas, offering some relief. The Met Department has issued an orange alert for Friday, forecasting light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms due to a western disturbance affecting northwest India. Officials advise against mountain travel due to potential severe weather.
The Trump administration has intensified its conflict with Columbia University, alleging inadequate protection of Jewish students following the October 7th Hamas attack. The Education Department informed the Middle States Commission on Higher Education of Columbia's alleged Title VI Civil Rights Act violation, potentially jeopardizing its accreditation and access to federal funding.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the US will revoke visas for some Chinese students with ties to the Chinese Communist Party or studying critical fields. This action, coupled with stricter visa guidelines and social media surveillance, intensifies uncertainty for international students. Concerns rise over potential talent deterrence and the erosion of the US as a global education hub, as students express fear of being treated as threats.
Following the government's decision to keep the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance after the Pahalgam attack, the Centre will expedite environmental clearances for pending and proposed projects in the Indus River Basin in J&K. This initiative aims to maximize water utilization from the river system, prioritizing strategic projects like hydro-electric power and irrigation infrastructure.
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's $10 million wedding in Venice on June 24 is sparking outrage from residents and activists. The lavish event, planned on San Giorgio Maggiore, faces protests over blocked streets, luxury hotel takeovers, and environmental concerns. Locals feel marginalized as the city becomes a playground for the wealthy, leading to planned demonstrations against the wedding.
The Char Dham yatra has seen 65 pilgrim deaths due to health issues, primarily cardiac-related, and eight fatalities from accidents. Kedarnath reported the highest number of deaths, followed by Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. Health screenings identified thousands of pilgrims with comorbidities, with many receiving counseling or medical referrals due to the challenges posed by high altitudes and extreme weather conditions.
Valmik Thapar, a renowned conservationist, author, and documentarian, passed away at 73 after dedicating 50 years to tiger conservation in India. His encounter with Fateh Singh Rathore in Ranthambhore ignited a lifelong mission to protect tigers, leading to the establishment of the Ranthambhore Foundation and influencing national wildlife policy.
Congress has voiced concerns over the potential impact of Donald Trump's visa policies on Indian students in the US, noting that approximately 337,630 Indian students pursued higher education there in 2024. Jairam Ramesh criticised PM Modi and EAM Jaishankar for their silence on the matter, contrasting it with China's strong reaction to protect its students' interests.
Suryakumar Yadav has surpassed AB de Villiers to become the highest-scoring non-opener in an IPL season, achieving this milestone during the Qualifier 2 clash against Punjab Kings. He eclipsed De Villiers' 2016 record with his aggressive batting style. Now, he aims to surpass Sai Sudharsan for the Orange Cap, as Mumbai Indians pursue their sixth IPL title.