CBI arrests ‘mastermind’ linked to NEET-UG 2026 biology paper leak

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday (May 16, 2026) has arrested a biology lecturer from Pune in connection with the 2026 NEET-UG paper leak case. Manisha Gurunath Mandhare was appointed by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as an expert and was involved in the examination process this year.

CBSE makes third language mandatory for Class IX

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the study of three languages compulsory for students from Class IX beginning July 1, while clarifying that there will be no Board examination for the third language (R3) in Class X. In a circular issued on May 15, the CBSE said that at least two of the three languages must be native Indian languages, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.”

WHO warns nicotine pouch brands targeting youth as sales surge

Sleek, discreet packaging, added flavours, sponsorship of concerts, festivals and sports events and aspirational lifestyle branding are among the widespread industry tactics used by nicotine pouch brands to appeal to younger audiences, warns the World Health Organisation (WHO) in a recently released global report “Exposing marketing tactics and strategies driving the growth of nicotine pouches”.

T.N. Cabinet portfolios: CM Vijay to hold Home; Finance for Sengottaiyan; Aadhav Arjuna gets PWD

The portfolios of Ministers in the Cabinet headed by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay have been announced. A Lok Bhavan press release stated the Chief Minister had recommended to the Governor the portfolio and subject allocations for the Council of Ministers, who were sworn in along with him on May 10. The Governor has approved the recommendations.

CJI Surya Kant clarifies ‘parasites’ remarks, says ‘pained’ over media reports

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Saturday (May 16, 2026) issued a strongly worded clarification on his ‘parasites’ remarks, saying he was “pained” by media reports that suggested he criticised youth. “I am pained to read how a section of the media has misquoted my oral observations made during the hearing of a frivolous case yesterday,” the CJI said in a statement.

Bengal Government orders re-verification of caste certificates issued since 2011

Observing that the authenticity and genuineness of some caste certificates have been challenged by different quarters, the West Bengal government has decided to conduct a re-verification of all caste certificates issued in the State since 2011.

Mamata asks Trinamool Congress poll candidates to rebuild party; says dissenters free to leave

After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) faced an electoral setback, party supremo Mamata Banerjee urged its candidates who contested the recent Assembly polls to rebuild the organisation, asserting that those wishing to quit the party were free to do so.

Israel confirms Hamas armed wing chief killed in Gaza strike

The Israeli military on Saturday (May 16, 2026) confirmed that Ezzedine Al-Haddad, chief of Hamas’ armed wing, was killed in an air strike in Gaza the day before.“The IDF and the ISA announce that yesterday, in a precise strike in the area of the City of Gaza, the terrorist Ezzedine Al-Haddad was eliminated,” the military said, referring to itself and the Shin Bet domestic security agency.