british council

british council has announced Reading Challenge 2026 at its Delhi library for children aged 5 to 12 years. Scheduled from June 1 to June 28, the four-week programme encourages participants to explore books based on their interests instead of following fixed reading lists. Children will take part in storytelling, discussions, creative writing and interactive activities. The initiative is open to members and non-members, with certificates and medals planned for participants who successfully complete the challenge.

Sunil Dahiya’s family journey from Rohtak, Haryana to the UK since 2013 has culminated in a milestone: his son Tushar Kumar, 23, becoming Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council, and mother Parveen Rani becoming Mayor of Hertsmere Borough Council days later. Tushar’s early entry into politics, education at King’s College London, and work preceded his election. Parveen’s background in education and governance shaped her political rise, highlighting diaspora success and public service across generations.

A Russian drone crashed into an apartment building in eastern Romania, injuring two people and sparking outrage. President Nicusor Dan called it the "worst incident to hit the national territory" since the war began. NATO and EU leaders condemned the "serious and irresponsible escalation," with Romania requesting faster anti-drone aid. This occurred amidst renewed Russian attacks on Ukraine.

Amidst scrutiny of elite clubs, the Delhi Golf Club (DGC) faces questions about membership access and heritage preservation, despite its lease extended to 2050. The club highlights its significant green cover, hosting international events, and efforts to nurture young talent, while acknowledging challenges in public accessibility and heritage conservation.

The British parliamentary sleaze watchdog will probe hard-right politician Nigel Farage's non- disclosure of a £5 million gift from a billionaire donor to his party, UK media reported Wednesday. The parliament's standards commissioner investigation concerns a gift from Thailand-based aviation entrepreneur and crypto investor Christopher Harborne, who last year donated £12 million to Reform UK. Farage and Reform UK told British media that he did not declare the £5 million because it was a personal gift to pay for his personal security, which Harborne corroborated.

Once Mamata Banerjee’s strongest urban constituency, Bengal’s bhadralok were driven up the wall by corruption, job scams, civic decay and the handling of the RG Kar rape and murder, write Dwaipayan Ghosh & Dipawali Mitra

A newly elected Reform UK councillor in Plymouth, Ben Rowe, has been suspended from the party following the emergence of social media posts containing Islamophobic and antisemitic content. These controversial posts surfaced before his election victory, leading to an investigation. Rowe's suspension comes amidst Reform UK's significant electoral gains in Plymouth and across England.

More than 70 Labour lawmakers are reportedly urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign following significant losses in local and regional elections. Four ministerial aides have resigned, citing a loss of public and parliamentary confidence. Despite mounting pressure, Starmer has rejected calls to step down, vowing to restore faith in his leadership.

Thousands rallied against antisemitism in London, with major Jewish groups organizing the event. The inclusion of Nigel Farage sparked controversy, drawing criticism for his past rhetoric. Organizers aimed for broad societal support, emphasizing solidarity against hate and division. Religious and business leaders also voiced their backing, pledging protection for the Jewish community.

Facing leadership challenges after poor election results, Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed to prove doubters wrong, promising significant policy shifts. He acknowledged public frustration and pledged "a bigger response" on key issues. Starmer also attacked rivals, aiming to unite his party amidst calls for change and potential leadership contests.

Reform UK has emerged as a major force in English local elections, securing the most council seats and taking control of its first London council. This surge, alongside significant losses for Labour and Conservatives, signals a potential shift to a five-party political landscape. Labour faces historical setbacks, with its leader under pressure amid widespread voter dissatisfaction.

Leicestershire's Reform UK-led council has defied its party's national stance by approving beaver releases to combat flooding. This move, supported by local councillors, highlights an internal party division on rewilding. Beavers, natural engineers, are recognized for their flood mitigation and habitat restoration benefits, a stark contrast to Reform's broader opposition to large-scale nature restoration.

A man in England returned medieval floor tiles he took as a child over sixty years ago, stored in a biscuit tin. His act of repentance, driven by persistent guilt, has provided English Heritage with well-preserved artefacts, offering new insights into the history of Wenlock Priory and the Cluniac Order.

Banksy has seemingly dropped a new statue in central London overnight. The artwork, depicting a flag-blinded suited figure stepping off a plinth, appeared in Waterloo Place. The installation was swift and professional, drawing attention to its commentary on leadership. Westminster Council, though unnotified, expressed excitement, allowing public viewing while options are considered.

UAE exits Opec, impacting global oil dynamics amid regional tensions. Ukraine escalates attacks on Russia, forcing Moscow to scale back Victory Day parades. King Charles' US trip strengthens UK-US ties. Syria begins its first transitional justice trial. China pressures African nations, forcing Taiwan's President to cancel a trip.