country

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met Nordic and Baltic leaders in Estonia, discussing drone defense cooperation and Ukraine's EU membership bid. Amid ongoing Russian strikes, leaders explored new sanctions on Moscow. Zelenskyy also held talks on ending the war, highlighting Ukraine's stronger battlefield positions and seeking diplomatic progress.

A Kolkata collector showcases the 2026 FIFA World Cup through currency. Anindya Kar's collection features bank notes from all 48 participating nations. These notes represent national identity, history, art, and economy. The expanded tournament includes new host countries and more teams. Kar's display highlights unique currencies, offering a glimpse into diverse cultures and footballing milestones.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, running from June 11 to July 19, is the first in history to be jointly hosted by three nations — the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches made a single-host format impractical, prompting the three countries to file a joint bid that won nearly 70 percent of FIFA votes in 2018. The US hosts 78 of the 104 games, including all knockout rounds from the quarterfinals onward.

India is the only country where both Asiatic lions and Bengal tigers roam wild. While lions are confined to Gujarat's Gir forest, tigers inhabit numerous reserves nationwide. Historically, their ranges overlapped, but today, they remain geographically separated, showcasing India's diverse habitats and conservation efforts.

Contrary to popular belief, France, not Russia or the United States, holds the record for the most time zones globally, spanning an impressive 12. This is due to its numerous overseas territories scattered across the world, each with its own local time. Travelers can experience diverse global destinations while remaining within France.

Grammy-winning country star Kacey Musgraves is returning as a guest judge in Season 3 of Netflix’s America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. The new season follows the intense 2025-26 audition process and premieres on June 16. Musgraves, known for her Texas roots and strong connection to the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, previously appeared in Season 2 and continues to excite fans with her involvement in the hit series.

Ever wondered why we drive on different sides of the road? It's a fascinating tale rooted in medieval defense, British imperial expansion, Napoleon's influence, and American wagon traditions. While switching seems simple, the immense cost and logistical hurdles make it impractical for most nations today, preserving this ancient geographical divide.

Kangana Ranaut, returning to the big screen after over a year with Bharat Bhagya Vidhata on June 12, praised young cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi's selection in the Indian T20I team. She said, "He should win the World Cup for the country." Her remarks have gone viral among cricket and film fans.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, students and football fans have plenty to look forward to. The tournament makes history as the first World Cup hosted by three countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—and features an expanded 48-team format. Mexico sets a hosting record, while a remarkable Mexico-South Africa opening-match coincidence adds intrigue. Meanwhile, global icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could be preparing for their final appearances on football's biggest stage.

For years, Indian professionals were viewed as a cost-effective workforce powering global industries. New data, however, paints a different picture. As companies compete for specialised skills, many Indians are earning more than local workers in countries such as the US, UK, and UAE, signalling a major shift in how talent, expertise, and opportunity are valued worldwide.

The Supreme Court has issued a notice to CBSE over the alleged non-declaration of Class XII results and issuance of blank marksheets to students in Gulf countries. The petition, filed on behalf of Saudi Arabia-based student Pransu Patel by advocates Vineet Jindal and Rajkishore Chaudhary, argues that the issue affects students' futures and violates constitutional rights. The court directed CBSE to resolve the matter by Friday and sought its response before the next hearing on June 12, 2026.

Sweden is preparing to ban mobile phones in schools starting next academic year, aiming to boost reading time and traditional learning methods. This decision stems from concerns over declining literacy skills among students, particularly younger ones. The move aligns with a global trend of restricting phone use in educational settings to minimize distractions and enhance learning.

Indian travellers can now use UPI in Cambodia. This makes payments easier across the country. Over 4.5 million merchants accept UPI. This includes hotels, restaurants, and transport. Travellers no longer need to carry large amounts of cash. This partnership with ACLEDA Bank simplifies travel. Cambodian travellers will also be able to use their payment apps in India soon.

A family dispute over funeral arrangements for their mother tragically turned deadly in Gorakhpur. Brother Durgvijay Sharma allegedly shot and killed his younger sibling, Shubham Sharma, following a heated argument about whether to hold a joint or separate post-death 'brahm bhoj' ceremony. The accused is currently on the run, with police actively pursuing his arrest.

In a surprising move on Thursday, UK Defence Secretary John Healey announced his resignation, pointing to inadequate government funding for defence amid escalating global tensions. He stressed the critical need for enhanced resource allocation to maintain military readiness, particularly against the backdrop of intelligence suggesting a potential Russian attack on NATO by 2030.

Israel and Iran exchanged fire on Monday as their conflict entered its 100th day, placing an already fragile ceasefire under severe strain and increasing fears of a wider regional confrontation. Adding to concerns over maritime security, the Iran-backed Houthis announced a ban on Israeli shipping through the Red Sea, one of the world's most important trade and shipping routes.