The National Testing Agency has cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination following allegations of a major question paper leak. A so-called "guess paper" that circulated before the exam reportedly matched actual questions closely, affecting over 22 lakh students. The central government has ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the leak and malpractice. The NTA has announced that the exam will be re-conducted within 7 to 10 days without requiring fresh registration or additional fees. Fresh exam dates and admit card schedules will be announced later.
Stock Market Crash Wipes Out Investor Wealth
Indian equity markets witnessed a sharp decline, with the Sensex and Nifty plunging over 1.5%. This crash wiped out more than Rs 10.16 lakh crore in investor wealth. The major factors behind this dramatic fall include rising crude oil prices, the rupee hitting a record low against the US dollar, continued selling by foreign investors, and escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Analysts have pointed to elevated geopolitical risks, higher bond yields, and global macroeconomic concerns as continuing to pressure equities. The fragile US-Iran ceasefire has added to uncertainty, hurting market sentiment.
Pakistan Confirms Iranian Aircraft Presence
Pakistan has acknowledged that Iranian aircraft were present in the country during the US-Iran ceasefire period, landing at its airbases. However, Islamabad has rejected reports suggesting any military link, calling such claims speculative and misleading. The clarification came after a CBS report alleged that Iranian military aircraft had landed at Rawalpindi's Nur Khan Airbase. Pakistan stated that the planes were connected to diplomatic talks and logistical arrangements linked to peace efforts and ceasefire-related arrangements.
AIADMK Faction Backs Vijay Ahead of Floor Test
In Tamil Nadu, the political drama ahead of Vijay's floor test has intensified. An AIADMK rebel faction led by S P Velumani and C Ve Shanmugam has extended support to Vijay's TVK government. This move has exposed sharp divisions within the AIADMK over possible backing from the DMK. Vijay has also secured support from the Congress party, Left parties, VCK, and IUML, strengthening his bid to prove a majority in the Assembly.
Sakshi Malik Supports Vinesh Phogat
Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik has backed Vinesh Phogat amid her dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India over returning to competition after retirement. Sakshi criticized rules that allegedly block mothers from resuming sports careers. She urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and WFI officials to allow Vinesh a fair chance to compete and represent India again. Sakshi called for authorities to support the wrestler's comeback after motherhood and give her a fair trial opportunity.
These are the top stories from today, covering major developments in education, finance, international relations, and sports.
