the national

Planning a wildlife safari in India this year? Be aware that many popular national parks and tiger reserves temporarily close during the monsoon season, typically from June or July. This closure, driven by heavy rainfall impacting road conditions and accessibility, also provides a crucial break for wildlife and allows for park maintenance.

Renowned Malayalam actor Salim Kumar was laid to rest with state honours on Sunday, following his passing at 56. Celebrated for his versatile performances, including a National Award win for 'Adaminte Makan Abu', Kumar left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His demise has prompted widespread tributes from colleagues, political leaders, and fans alike.

An Indian national tragically died in an Iranian drone attack on Kuwait airport. The incident, which also caused significant damage to a passenger terminal, occurred amidst escalating regional tensions. The US military reported intercepting multiple drones targeting its forces in Kuwait and stated Iranian missiles fell apart en route.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed the draft National Mental Health and Well-Being Policy for Schools in a meeting with officials and experts. The proposed framework aims to strengthen mental health support across schools for students, teachers and communities. It emphasises safe, inclusive environments, early identification of issues, preventive care and teacher training as first-level mentors. The policy seeks integration of mental well-being into education and inclusion of Indian Knowledge Systems for holistic development nationwide.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led National Conference MLAs and MPs to Dachigam National Park for a strategy session. The meeting concluded with a call for a protest in New Delhi on Parliament's monsoon session opening day, demanding the restoration of J&K's statehood and special status.

Mirra Andreeva is just one win away from claiming her first Grand Slam title. She reached the final of the French Open 2026. The 19-year-old delivered an impressive performance in the semifinal on Thursday, defeating Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 in straight sets. Her victory secured a place in an unexpected championship match against Poland’s Maja Chwalinska. The young Russian has become one of the biggest stories of the tournament as she continues her remarkable run in Paris.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a strategy session with National Conference MLAs and MPs at Dachigam National Park. The meeting concluded with a call for a protest in New Delhi during Parliament's monsoon session, demanding the restoration of J&K's statehood. The party also resolved to push for a ban on liquor in the region.

Saudi Arabia supporters travelling to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States are reportedly being offered complimentary tickets for their national team’s matches, according to media reports. The initiative, shared by the Saudi supporters’ group and embassy in Washington, comes amid wider criticism of FIFA’s pricing structure and legal scrutiny over ticket affordability and transparency for fans.