US-Iran tensions escalate as President Donald Trump reinstates a naval blockade on Iran, leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This geopolitical conflict has triggered a global supply chain crisis, with China halting its helium exports. The helium shortage threatens critical high-tech industries, including semiconductor manufacturing and medical equipment production. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is set to launch India's campaign for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council for the 2028-2029 term, facing competition from Tajikistan. In Nepal, massive protests have erupted against Prime Minister Balen Shah's government following the death of a ride-hailing driver who set himself on fire after a municipal police enforcement action. Other major updates include the deaths of 15 Indian tourists in a boat capsize off Vietnam, a deadly pub fire in Bangkok claiming 27 lives, and the sudden demise of actor Sam Neill at the age of 78.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu addressed the controversy surrounding the movie Satluj and its portrayal of Punjab's history. He challenged the film's claim of 25,000 missing bodies, asking, "Where did the 25,000 number come from?"
When elections had to be won in Maharashtra in 2024, due diligence was conveniently missing. Now that polls are over and state finances are under strain, the beneficiary list has been slashed.
The big talking point of this episode of News Today is the escalation of tension in West Asia and Donald Trump's fresh move to "reinstate" a blockade on Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships for safe passage.
The Indian women's cricket team created history by defeating England by 270 runs in their first-ever women's Test match at Lords.
