The Vatican has confirmed the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 after battling severe bronchitis in recent days. World leaders are mourning the loss of the first Jesuit and Latin American pontiff, who was renowned for his calls for peace, climate action, and interfaith dialogue. Pope Francis redefined papal tradition with his simple lifestyle and powerful gestures, championing compassion and reform throughout his 12-year papacy. Memorial services are set to be held worldwide, with a state funeral expected at St. Peter’s Basilica.
ALSO: Pope Francis dies at age 88 after long illness
JD Vance arrives in India
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, along with his wife Usha and their children, visited Delhi’s Akshardham Temple today. Dressed in traditional attire, the family explored the temple’s spiritual exhibitions and intricate carvings. Temple spokesperson Radhika Shukla mentioned that the Vances appreciated the cultural richness and were gifted a souvenir to mark their visit.
ALSO: Why Andhra Pradesh’s Vadluru is abuzz as Usha Vance visits India
PM Modi’s new mantra
At the 17th Civil Services Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the mantra “Naagrik Devo Bhava,” urging civil servants to treat citizens like deities. He emphasized the importance of listening to the poor and acting with empathy, stating that today’s policy decisions will shape India’s future for the next thousand years.
The court corner
The Supreme Court declined two pleas seeking an independent probe into the recent violence in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district. The unrest occurred during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Both petitions were allowed to be withdrawn with the option to file afresh.
Sensex, Nifty surge
Indian markets rose for the fifth consecutive session, with the Nifty crossing 24,100 and the Sensex gaining 1%. Tech Mahindra surged over 5%, boosting market sentiment.
The BCCI contracts
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retained their A+ BCCI contracts, earning ₹7 crore annually. Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan have also been reinstated, but in lower contract categories.
