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Agra: Tourists enjoy during rains, at the Taj Mahal, in Agra, Wednesday, June 26, 2024. (PTI Photo)(PTI)

IMD forecasts heavy rainfall across northwest India from June 28 to 30, with monsoon advancing into several states. Delayed by a week, monsoon progress shows a 19% rain deficit nationally, notably 57% in northwest India. M. Rajeevan predicts active monsoon phases with potential for extreme rains and flooding in north India over the next 2-3 weeks. IMD issued orange alerts for Uttarakhand, East Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Uttar Pradesh. The monsoon is expected to cover the entire country by July 5, according to extended forecasts.

Pakistani deputy prime minister Ishaq Dar said the need for India to reassess bilateral relations as India’s BJP-led government begins a new term. Speaking in Islamabad, Dar said Pakistan is open to constructive engagement but pointed India’s decision on Jammu and Kashmir as detrimental to ties. He urged India to create an environment for meaningful dialogue and criticised what he termed as India’s campaign against Pakistan. Dar also discussed Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan and China, stressing cooperation and stability. He said Pakistan is commited to strategic stability in South Asia while advocating against terrorism from Afghan soil and promoting CPEC with China. 

Taylor Swift, named Time magazine’s Person of the Year, continues to dominate headlines after winning big at the Grammy Awards and setting records with The Eras Tour’s concert film. She recently surprised fans at London’s Wembley Stadium by performing with her boyfriend, Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs. Meanwhile, Meghan McCain has expressed concerns about Swift’s media saturation, suggesting a break might benefit both her and commentators. Swift’s ongoing tour, grossing over a billion dollars, showcases a retrospective of her career with more than 40 tracks, including those from her latest album, The Tortured Poets Society.