India is facing a brutal and relentless heatwave as temperatures soar across North and Central India, pushing cities into crisis mode. Delhi has already recorded 44.5°C, with forecasts warning that the capital could soon touch 46°C. Banda in Uttar Pradesh emerged as the hottest city in the country with temperatures crossing a blistering 48°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued severe heatwave alerts for multiple states including Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana and Bihar. Hot desert winds from the Thar region continue to fuel the dangerous conditions.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi drew a striking civilizational parallel between Rome and Kashi during his high-profile visit to Italy, calling both cities “eternal symbols” of cultural continuity, heritage and global influence. Addressing a joint press statement alongside Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome, Modi said the relationship between India and Italy goes far beyond diplomacy and reflects centuries of shared civilizational dialogue, historical depth and future ambition. The meeting marked another major step in strengthening the India-Italy Special Strategic Partnership under the Joint Action Plan for 2025-2029. From trade and defence cooperation to clean energy, technology, innovation and cultural exchange, both nations signalled a deeper alignment on global priorities and long-term economic growth. WATCH