Nation

A blackbuck was found dead with its throat slit in Madhya Pradesh’s Shajapur district after hunters reportedly opened fire on a herd of the protected species. The incident occurred near Girana-Kevdakhedi Road and has sparked public outrage. Forest officials confirmed that a case has been registered under the Wildlife Protection Act, and a probe is underway to trace the suspects involved in the poaching.

An Indian Army soldier and his accomplice have been arrested by Amritsar Rural Police for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s ISI. Identified as Gurpreet Singh and Sahil Masih, the duo is accused of leaking sensitive military information using USB drives and mobile phones. Gurpreet, posted in Jammu, reportedly had direct links with ISI handler Rana Javed. Authorities are investigating the extent of the espionage network and any possible connection to recent terror attacks, including the one in Pahalgam.

India has sharply increased its crude oil imports from Russia and the United States in June 2025, overtaking volumes from traditional Middle Eastern suppliers amid rising tensions from the Israel-Iran conflict. Russian oil imports hit a two-year high at up to 2.2 million barrels per day, while US imports surged by over 55%. With fears of potential disruption at the Strait of Hormuz, India is pivoting towards alternative suppliers to safeguard energy security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing “deep concern” over the escalating tensions following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Emphasising the need for immediate de-escalation, Modi called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore regional peace and stability. His remarks came hours after US President Donald Trump announced strikes on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan sites. India’s statement remained neutral, avoiding direct reference to the attacks while underscoring its support for peace in the region.

Around 40 members of a tribal family in Odisha’s Rayagada district shaved their heads as part of a cleansing ritual after a girl married outside her caste. The act, reportedly decided by a village council, aimed to preserve traditional norms. A video of the incident went viral, prompting officials to launch an investigation. While authorities confirmed the rituals were performed "willingly," a report is being prepared for the district collector.