Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the Tamil Nadu government for replacing the rupee symbol (₹) with a Tamil letter in its 2025-26 budget logo. She questioned why DMK did not oppose the symbol when it was introduced in 2010 under the UPA government, where DMK was an ally. Sitharaman called the move "a rejection of a national symbol" and warned it could "promote secessionist sentiment." The DMK defended the change, saying it reflects Tamil identity. The controversy comes amid a language dispute between the state and the Centre over the National Education Policy.

Byrnihat, a small town on the Meghalaya-Assam border, has been named the world’s most polluted city, according to IQAir’s 2024 report. The town recorded an annual PM2.5 level of 128.2 µg/m³, far above WHO’s safe limit. Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma expressed concern and suggested industries on the Assam side may be the main cause. “This is of great concern to all of us,” he said. Sangma has written to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, seeking joint action. Meghalaya has already shut down polluting units, but officials stress the need for cooperation to improve air quality.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, saying, “NATO is stepping up through this man.” Trump credited Rutte for strengthening the alliance and supporting efforts to end the war. “He only knows how to do a good job,” Trump added, emphasizing his role in securing Rutte’s appointment. However, Trump also repeated concerns about U.S. spending, stating, “We are on the other side of the ocean.” He highlighted a new minerals deal with Ukraine, saying it will “get us something back, a lot back.” Rutte joked he would keep Trump’s praise as a family keepsake.

The UK's terror watchdog has warned about the rise of lone attackers planning mass killings after being influenced by the internet. Jonathan Hall KC, the independent reviewer of terrorism laws, suggested a new offence for individuals plotting such crimes. He cited cases like Axel Rudakubana, who killed three children in Southport, and Nicholas Prosper, who planned a school shooting. Hall cautioned against broadening the definition of terrorism, fearing misuse. The government is reviewing current laws to tackle this emerging threat. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stressed the need to address the dangers posed by isolated young men radicalised online.

Ukrainian soldiers dismiss ceasefire talks as unrealistic while facing relentless Russian attacks. At a military hospital in eastern Ukraine, wounded troops arrive continuously, many hit by shrapnel from drones. "Murderers don’t agree so easily," says Maksym, a soldier. Medics, including foreign volunteers, remain skeptical, citing past failed truces. The 68th Jaeger Brigade trains for battle, doubting both Russian intentions and American commitments. "No one wants to hope," says Swedish medic Daniel. With Ukraine losing ground in Kursk and US military aid finally resuming, troops see little sign that peace is near. "You can’t trust Russia. Never," says another soldier.

Pakistani security forces stopped a major suicide bombing attempt near Jandola Fort in Tank District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A suicide bomber detonated explosives at a checkpoint’s southern gate, injuring 2 security personnel. Militants then opened fire, leading to heavy gunfire that killed 10 attackers. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces, calling their response an "exemplary end" to the assailants. The attack was claimed by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This incident follows the killing of 33 militants who hijacked the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan. Authorities continue investigating the identities of the attackers.

Donald Trump's planned tariffs on Indian pharmaceuticals may raise drug costs for millions of Americans. India supplies nearly 50% of the US's generic drugs, saving $219B in 2022. Experts warn tariffs could worsen drug shortages, especially for hypertension and mental health medications. Indian firms, already operating on thin margins, may struggle with higher costs. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently visited the US to negotiate a deal. Trump claims India will cut tariffs, but no official confirmation has been given. Industry leaders caution that relocation to the US would be costly and take years.

Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai criticized the DMK for replacing the rupee symbol with the Tamil letter 'Ru' in the state's budget material. He called the move "stupid," pointing out that the rupee symbol was designed by Tamilian Udaya Kumar, son of a former DMK MLA. The DMK defended its decision, stating it aims to promote Tamil. Annamalai accused the party of fueling a "language war" against the Centre. The DMK insists the change is legal and reflects Tamil pride. The BJP leader’s remarks have intensified Tamil Nadu’s ongoing language debate.

Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo addressed the issue of tariffs under Donald Trump's administration at the India Today Conclave 2025, an annual event that brings together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing international issues. Pompeo emphasized that Trump, who calls himself "Tariff Man," views tariffs as a crucial tool to balance trade deficits and push for fair trade practices. "He would say, 'Let's both get rid of our tariffs and be great commercial partners together,' but if not, he will impose tariffs on your products, goods, and even services," Pompeo stated. Pompeo served as Secretary of State from 2018 to 2021 and Director of the CIA (2017-2018). He dismissed concerns that Trump’s policies favor corporate interests, arguing that recent tariffs have caused major financial losses for billionaires. "If they’re trying to make money off this, it’s an epic fail," he said, referring to Elon Musk’s losses due to recent trade restrictions. He also noted that India's commerce minister is currently in the US for discussions with American trade officials, reinforcing the importance of ongoing negotiations. Beyond tariffs, Pompeo highlighted opportunities for US-India collaboration in technology and innovation. He stressed the need to reduce trade barriers in cutting-edge sectors and facilitate academic and business exchanges between the two countries. "The real place our two nations ought to be determined to succeed is in new innovative spaces where the West, India, Japan, South Korea, and Europe must compete with China," he stated. Pompeo expressed optimism that a second Trump presidency would continue strengthening economic ties between Washington and New Delhi. [ Video Courtesy : X/@IndiaToday ]

Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen shocked defending champion Jonathan Christie to reach the quarterfinals of the All England Open 2025. In a stunning display, the unseeded Sen defeated the third-seeded Indonesian in straight games, 21-13, 21-10. The match lasted just 36 minutes. Sen, a former finalist, controlled the game from the start and dominated his opponent. This is his second straight year in the quarterfinals. The victory boosts his chances of winning his first All England title. Fans are excited to see if he can continue his strong form in the next round.