Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Friday stated that the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) is currently being utilized at only around 10% of its capacity and called for its strengthening through systematic collection of fingerprint data from crime scenes. Speaking at the 26th All India Fingerprint Conference 2026 in New Delhi, he described NAFIS as an important scientific tool for modern policing and said its use must be significantly expanded beyond its present limited application.

He noted that the system has already helped resolve several complex cases but stressed that its effectiveness depends on continuous enrichment of its database. According to him, NAFIS should not only be used for identifying criminals but also be strengthened through regular input of fingerprints collected from crime scenes, making it a two-way system that both identifies offenders and supports case building.

Shah further highlighted that improving forensic databases and ensuring consistent data collection from crime scenes are critical for better investigative outcomes. He emphasized that scientific evidence is becoming increasingly central to the criminal justice system and urged states to prioritize both data quality and security.

He also pointed out the significant role of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) in supporting the implementation of new criminal laws across police stations in India. Referring to ongoing reforms, Shah said the country’s criminal justice system is shifting from traditional methods toward a more technology-driven and rights-based approach. He stressed that forensic data should also be used for intelligence purposes, including identifying international criminals.

He added that training should go beyond simply using digital tools and should also cover the entire process of evidence collection, charge-sheet preparation, and coordination with prosecution and judiciary. He said that if strong scientific evidence is available, additional evidence should not be necessary.

Shah further emphasized the need for better integration of technology across investigation, prosecution, and conviction processes, cautioning against over-reliance on multiple forms of evidence when robust forensic confirmation is already available. He made these remarks while attending the conference at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Auditorium in New Delhi, which aims to strengthen forensic capabilities and improve India’s criminal justice system.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

An Indian Army helicopter carried out a trial landing at the Tirunelveli Armed Reserve Ground as part of preparations for transporting NEET-UG 2026 question papers under heightened security arrangements. The NEET exam conducted last month was cancelled after allegations of a paper leak, and the re-examination has now been scheduled for June 21. To prevent any further security breaches and ensure a fair process, authorities have planned a last-minute delivery system for question papers using helicopters.

As per the proposed security plan, the papers will first be flown from Delhi to Madurai by aircraft. From there, they will be airlifted by an Indian Army helicopter to the Tirunelveli Armed Reserve Ground under the supervision of Air Force personnel. A mock drill was also conducted to test the full security arrangement. The sudden appearance of a military helicopter over Tirunelveli city drew significant public attention, with residents stopping to watch the exercise.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) had earlier imposed a temporary restriction on Telegram in India until June 22, covering the exam day and its immediate aftermath, citing misuse of the platform in creating false “paper leak” narratives. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), based on recommendations from the NTA and the Department of Higher Education, issued these targeted directions under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 to curb organized cheating networks.

Along with the temporary restriction, MeitY also instructed Telegram to disable its message-editing feature in India until June 30, 2026, as the NTA noted that such tools were being exploited to mislead candidates during the re-exam process. The NTA clarified that these measures are limited in scope and time-bound, aimed specifically at protecting the integrity of the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination.

It further urged students to stay focused on preparation, rely only on official updates from the NTA, and avoid misinformation circulating on social media. Candidates and parents were also advised to report any suspicious or fraudulent activity through the National Cyber Crime Helpline or the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

At the 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog, held on June 11 and chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay called for stronger federal cooperation, greater autonomy for states, and increased financial support, arguing that a developed India can only be built through empowered states and inclusive growth.

He said Tamil Nadu is committed to working with the Union Government while protecting its own developmental priorities and aims to grow into a $1.5 trillion economy by 2036 as part of India’s broader “developed nation by 2047” vision. A major focus of his speech was youth development, where he proposed a “Youth Skill and Employment Mission” offering annual paid internships and industry-linked training for five lakh young people. He also sought central support to set up advanced skill centres in every district, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, deep-tech, cloud computing, electric vehicles, and semiconductors, along with stronger startup incubators, venture capital support, and research funding.

On education, he reiterated the state’s opposition to NEET for medical admissions, saying it disadvantages rural and underprivileged students, and urged that Tamil Nadu be allowed to admit students in MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses based solely on Class 12 marks for state quota seats. He also requested approval for a second AIIMS in Coimbatore, support for affordable housing, and release of pending funds under schemes such as Samagra Shiksha without conditions tied to NEP or the three-language policy.

Other proposals included a poverty-free state mission, support for women-led development initiatives, enhanced disaster management infrastructure for cyclone and flood resilience, and recognition of the Thirukkural as a national literary work. On infrastructure and connectivity, he sought assistance for completing BharatNet Phase-II, funding for the Hogenakkal water supply project, and central backing for developing Kulasekarapattinam as a national space manufacturing hub.

He also raised concerns about Tamil Nadu fishermen detained abroad, calling for diplomatic efforts for their release and protection of traditional fishing rights. He concluded by emphasizing that strengthening states through cooperative federalism would ultimately strengthen the country and ensure balanced and sustainable national development.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday described the newly launched Uttarakhand Science, Technology and Innovation Policy-2026 as a transformative roadmap aimed at building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy in the state. According to the Chief Minister, the policy is designed not only to promote scientific advancement but also to integrate technology into key sectors such as governance, disaster management, healthcare, agriculture, education and employment generation. He said the initiative would create a unified platform for young innovators, researchers, scientists, startups and grassroots innovators across Uttarakhand.

Dhami stated that the policy aligns with the state’s vision of becoming self-reliant by combining traditional knowledge systems with modern scientific and technological solutions. Following the Chief Minister’s announcement, the Department of Information Technology, Good Governance, and Science & Technology formally issued the Uttarakhand Science, Technology and Innovation Policy-2026. The policy seeks to position Uttarakhand as a leading centre for science, technology and information technology while promoting innovation-led development.

Officials said the policy focuses on strengthening scientific thinking, research and innovation ecosystems to address local challenges effectively. It also emphasises sustainable development by balancing economic progress, environmental protection and social inclusion. To ensure proper implementation, the state government plans to establish a high-level advisory body responsible for policy monitoring, evaluation and coordination. A decentralised institutional framework will also be created to encourage research and innovation activities across different regions of the state.

As part of the policy framework, the government intends to strengthen collaboration among departments, public sector organisations, private companies, startups and academic institutions. A State-Level Coordination Committee will be constituted to facilitate the establishment of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) units across multiple sectors.

The policy further proposes wider access to scientific information and research resources. Data generated through publicly funded research projects will be digitally archived and made securely accessible to stakeholders. Researchers and institutions in Uttarakhand will also benefit from the Government of India’s “One Nation, One Subscription” initiative, which provides access to scientific journals and research archives.

Special emphasis has been placed on indigenous technology development and localisation to support the vision of “Atmanirbhar Uttarakhand.” The policy aims to encourage locally developed technological solutions suited to the state’s unique geographical and environmental conditions while promoting the integration of traditional knowledge with modern innovation.

The policy outlines plans to improve science and technology infrastructure in educational institutions and launch capacity-building programmes for students, teachers and researchers. Advanced Teaching-Learning Centres are also proposed in line with the National Education Policy to strengthen teaching capabilities. To increase public engagement in science, the government plans to establish Science Cities, Science Centres, Planetariums, Atal Tinkering Labs, Artificial Intelligence laboratories, astronomy observation centres and Centres of Excellence throughout the state.

The policy identifies emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Robotics, Drones, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Mixed Reality (MR) as priority areas. Research and development will also be promoted in sectors including biotechnology, space technology, nanotechnology, digital technologies, food-water-energy security and disaster management.

Additionally, workshops, fellowships, scholarships and collaborative research programmes will be launched to strengthen cooperation between scientists, technical experts and grassroots innovators. The government also plans to create a dedicated digital engagement portal for Uttarakhand’s scientific community. A Science, Technology and Innovation Observatory will be established as a central digital repository containing information on schemes, grants, programmes and incentives related to science and innovation. Innovators will also receive assistance in areas such as patents, copyrights, intellectual property rights and legal support.

Officials believe the policy will act as a major catalyst for research-led development and technological self-reliance in Uttarakhand while accelerating the state’s progress toward becoming a developed and empowered region. The Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) will serve as the nodal agency for implementing and promoting scientific initiatives under the policy.

UCOST Director General Prof. Durgesh Pant said the state currently faces critical challenges including climate change, natural disasters and increasing pressure on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. He noted that the new policy would improve coordination among scientific institutions, industries, academic bodies and innovators to address these concerns more effectively. Prof. Pant also highlighted that the policy aims to ensure inclusive participation in science and innovation by creating equal opportunities for women, rural communities, marginalised groups and persons with disabilities.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Keir Starmer has revealed that he will step down as prime minister less than two years after securing an election win, setting off a contest to choose the next Labour leader. As Labour MPs grow increasingly concerned about the rising influence of Nigel Farage’s Reform party, attention has turned to Andy Burnham, the politician nicknamed the “King of the North.” His strong performance in a local by-election last weekend has fuelled speculation that he could be a future occupant of No. 10. Reged Ahmad speaks with North of England editor Josh Halliday about Burnham’s growing political momentum, why he is being viewed as a potential next British prime minister, and why the coming week could shape the future direction of UK politics.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

A second batch of more than 1,000 pages of documents concerning Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador has been made public. The files were expected to shed light on what ministers knew about Mandelson’s connections to Epstein and the vetting process behind his approval. Instead, they exposed internal government tensions and early concerns over Keir Starmer’s leadership. Lucy Hough talks with the Guardian’s head of national news, Archie Bland.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey respond to reader questions on whether Andy Burnham could outperform Keir Starmer, whether Makerfield matters more for Reform UK than for Labour, and whether the UK could realistically rejoin the EU.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

A 31-year-old man has been accused of trying to assassinate Donald Trump following a foiled plot linked to Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Soon after the incident, false claims began circulating online suggesting the attempt was staged. This week, Jonathan Freedland discusses the rise of such conspiracy theories surrounding the US president with journalist Rachel Leingang.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.