Local Round-up: Mizoram's Literacy Milestone to Rise In COVID-19 Cases

From landmark achievements in space by ISRO and education to a fresh COVID-19 spike and a symbolic sweet shop renaming in Jaipur, this week’s top India news stories reflect a nation in motion. Dive into this curated roundup of the recent developments making headlines across India’s social, political, and cultural landscapes.

Mizoram Becomes India’s First Fully Literate State, Topping National Charts

Mizoram has officially become India’s first fully literate state, with every citizen reportedly able to read and write. This achievement is the result of sustained community-led efforts, government campaigns, and educational outreach, particularly among older populations and remote villages. Authorities credit active participation from local NGOs and school systems. The milestone sets a powerful precedent for other states and reinforces Mizoram’s longstanding emphasis on education as a cornerstone of social development.

COVID-19 Cases Rise in Multiple Indian States, Authorities on Alert

India is witnessing a fresh wave of COVID-19 cases, with infections rising across Delhi, Haryana, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. While symptoms remain mild, health officials have urged caution and reintroduced advisories for vulnerable groups. Testing and tracking protocols are being stepped up in major urban centres. The Health Ministry has stated there’s no need for panic, but has warned that the virus’s seasonal behaviour remains unpredictable.

ISRO Declares 2025 the 'Gaganyaan Year' with Robotic Mission Launch in December

ISRO has declared 2025 the 'Gaganyaan Year' with its first crewed mission featuring Vyommitra, a humanoid robot, set to launch in December. This historic spaceflight is a key step towards India’s ambitions of sending astronauts to low-Earth orbit. The robotic trial will test life-support and re-entry systems ahead of human missions in 2026. ISRO aims to join the ranks of elite spacefaring nations through indigenous innovation and international collaboration.

Karnataka Faces Backlash Over c as Face of Mysore Sandal Soap

The Karnataka government is facing criticism for appointing actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal Soap, a state-owned legacy brand. Critics argue a non-Kannadiga celebrity undermines regional representation. Defenders cite her national appeal, but opposition parties and Kannada groups insist the brand should reflect local identity. The controversy taps into ongoing debates around cultural pride, celebrity endorsements, and the branding of state-backed products in a diverse India.

Jaipur Sweets Rename 'Mysore Pak' to 'Shree Pak' Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

In response to heightened national sentiment and diplomatic tensions with Pakistan, several Jaipur sweet shops have replaced 'Pak' in 'Mysore Pak' with 'Shree'. Owners say the move supports India’s stance under Operation Sindoor and prevents misinterpretation. While some welcomed the symbolic gesture, others labelled it unnecessary politicisation of a traditional dessert. The renaming has sparked debate on whether food heritage should be reshaped by geopolitical narratives or remain culturally autonomous.

Shubman Gill Appointed as India’s New Test Captain, Replacing Rohit Sharma

Shubman Gill has been named the new captain of India’s Test cricket team, succeeding Rohit Sharma. The decision signals a generational transition, with Gill being groomed as a long-term leader. He praised the leadership styles of both Rohit and Virat Kohli, calling them inspiring. Cricket analysts view this as a strategic move to build a future-ready squad, blending youthful energy with experience for upcoming World Test Championship cycles.

Lahore ATC Denies IndiGo Jet Entry Amid Airspace Ban, Despite Emergency Request

Lahore Air Traffic Control reportedly denied an emergency request by an IndiGo Delhi–Srinagar flight to enter Pakistani airspace to avoid turbulence. The refusal came despite the jet facing severe weather. The decision follows Pakistan’s standing airspace ban for Indian carriers. Aviation experts criticised the move as jeopardising passenger safety over geopolitics. The incident underscores ongoing diplomatic strain and the need for humanitarian exceptions in international aviation protocols.

Rescue Operation Underway as Container Ship Tilts Off Kerala Coast

Fifteen crew members remain stranded aboard a container ship that tilted dangerously off the Kerala coast. Rescue operations are underway, with the Indian Coast Guard mobilised for aerial and marine efforts. Authorities suspect water ingress as the cause. While no casualties have been reported, high tides and weather conditions have made rescue challenging. The incident raises questions about vessel maintenance and preparedness during India’s increasingly volatile coastal monsoon season.