Britain plans 300,000 new work placements as more than one million young people crack NEET.

The UK government has announced plans to provide 300,000 new work experience and training opportunities over the next three years to tackle rising youth unemployment and economic inactivity.The programme, supported by major employers including Manchester Airport and Gatwick Airport, will offer placements in sectors such as construction, hospitality, health and social care, reports The Independent.The announcement comes a day after a review into youth inactivity warned Britain that rising numbers of young people will be missing out on work and education.Official figures released on Thursday showed that more than a million people aged 16 to 24 are now classified as NEET, meaning they are not in employment, education or training.New opportunities will include work experience placements as well as sector-based work academy programmes, government-funded schemes that combine training, workplace experience and guaranteed job interviews for qualified job seekers.Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said practical workplace experience plays a vital role in helping young people build long-term careers.“The evidence is clear, young people get real work experience and the chances of them building a lasting career increases dramatically,” McFadden said.The initiative follows a review led by Alan Milburn which identified limited access to work experience as one of the biggest barriers facing young job seekers.The report found that many students are expected to arrange placements on their own, often putting students without strong personal or professional networks at a disadvantage.Milburn argued that opportunities to gain early workplace experience have become harder to access, leading to a cycle in which employers look for candidates with experience while young people struggle to obtain it.The government says the expanded placement program aims to help bridge that gap and improve access to employment opportunities across the country.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Image: IPL/BCCI)

Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been the undisputed breakout star of IPL 2026. The 15-year-old Rajasthan Royals player currently leads the race for the Orange Cap with 680 runs in 15 matches and has lit up the tournament with a series of record-breaking performances. Yet, despite his remarkable season, he has fallen just short of the century that many believe he deserved.Twice this season, Suryavanshi found himself in the nineties, but his unwavering commitment to the team’s cause held him back. Instead of slowing down to achieve personal milestones, the teenager continued to play his natural aggressive game, putting the needs of the team ahead of personal records. Speaking about his mindset on JioStar, Suryavanshi revealed the lessons his father taught him from a young age.Vaibhav Suryavanshi said, “Since childhood, my father has always told me that if you score a century, double century or triple century, but the team does not win because of it, then those runs have no importance. They may be only for your personal record, but they do not benefit the team.”

“After all, cricket is a team game. So, if I score 80 instead of a century and my team wins, and if we don’t win even though I score a century, that 80 means more to me than a hundred,” he said.Vaibhav concluded, “The longer my team stays in the tournament and the deeper we go into the playoffs and finals, the more chances I will get to score centuries and achieve whatever records I want to break. So, it will benefit both me personally and the team.”His selfless approach was on full display during the IPL 2026 Eliminator against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Suryavanshi was just one four away from breaking after playing a stormy innings of 97 runs in just 28 balls. chris gayleRecord of fastest century in IPL history. Instead of playing it safe and taking a run, he attempted a daring upper-cut off Prafulla Hinge. Seeing a fielder late, he tried to adjust the shot but mistimed it, eventually being caught at deep third man on the 29th ball.Earlier in the season, against Lucknow Super Giants, he had played another sensational innings by scoring 93 runs off just 38 balls. The left-handed batsman demolished the LSG attack with seven fours and ten sky-scraping sixes at a whopping strike rate of 244.73, helping Rajasthan Royals seal a dominant win before falling short of a century once again.

Rajpal Yadav has said that the ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ universe is still an incomplete story, and he wants Chhota Pandit to come face to face with Manjulika. The actor, who is closely associated with the horror-comedy franchise through his colorful character, said the first film still sticks with him because of its psychological twist and Vidya Balan’s performance. He also shared that he believes that Chhota Pandit’s journey has not reached its full stop yet.

Rajpal Yadav on the impact of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Bubble, Rajpal talked about the horror film that left a deep impact on him. He chose ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ and recalled how the film went beyond the routine scares.He said, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 1, woh psychological jo tha usin Vidya Balan jab pehli mein jab hamara role tha to hi” (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 1, woh psychological elements in us, Vidya Balan in the first part, and of course I had a role in that).Rajpal said that even after watching it again and again, the film continues to surprise him. “But there were actually some things in that movie, something current that made it so that no matter how many times I watched it, and I have seen so many movies, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 1 still feels like what people say, reel reality.” is an illusion).

Rajpal Yadav on Chhota Pandit vs Manjulika

Rajpal then said that there is still room for Chhota Pandit and Manjulika tracks in the franchise. He said, “Even now, I feel that Bhool Bhulaiyaa is still incomplete.”He explained, “Because only Pandit has seen Manjulika, Chhota Pandit has seen her in the first part and since then Rang-Biranga Ghoom Raha Hai aur Mila Abhi Tak Nahi Hai Manjulika Se” (Because only Pandit has seen Manjulika, Chhota Pandit has seen her in the first part and since then Rang-Biranga Ghoom Raha Hai aur Mila Abhi Tak Nahi Hai Manjulika Se) (Because only Pandit has seen Manjulika, Chhota Pandit has seen her in the first part and has been roaming around colorfully since then, but has not met Manjulika yet).Rajpal said that a proper ‘Chhota Pandit vs. Manjulika’ story could take the franchise in a different direction. The actor was last seen in ‘Bhoot Bangla’ with Akshay Kumar Priyadarshan. He will next be seen in ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ and is reportedly a part of Salman Khan’s untitled film with Dil Raju.

New Delhi: A day after stepping down as Karnataka Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah joined his successor DK Shivakumar In Delhi for a fresh round of consultations with the Congress leadership, as the party shifts its focus from leadership change to shaping the next government.The two leaders met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge amid discussions on Cabinet formation, the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections and Siddaramaiah’s future role within the party.The meetings are taking place as the Congress works to manage the post-transition phase in Karnataka and strike a balance before the formation of the new government under the leadership of Shivakumar.

Congress has focused its attention on cabinet formation

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar met Rahul Gandhi and Kharge before holding discussions with Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence. According to party sources, the talks focused on the composition of the new cabinet, Rajya Sabha nomination and the role of Siddaramaiah after his resignation.

Shivkumar with Congress leader Kharge

Sources told news agency PTI that Siddaramaiah thanked Rahul Gandhi for giving him the opportunity to serve the state and informed him that he had resigned from the post of chief minister.It is understood that the veteran Congress leader expressed his views on the new power system in Karnataka. Reports also suggest that he is not keen on moving to Delhi for a national role, preferring to remain engaged in state politics.

Siddaramaiah with Congress President Kharge

Siddaramaiah was accompanied by Karnataka ministers Priyank Kharge and KJ George as well as his son and MLC Yatindra Siddaramaiah.

Shivakumar’s emotional note for Siddaramaiah

Shivakumar issued his first public statement after Siddaramaiah’s resignation, praising the outgoing chief minister’s political journey and his contribution to Karnataka.Describing Siddaramaiah’s rise from a village in Mysuru district to the chief minister’s office as an example of perseverance and public service, Shivakumar said his life showed how opportunity, when matched with hard work and commitment, can shape a remarkable political career.“God doesn’t give blessings or curses. He only gives opportunities. What really matters is what we make of those opportunities.” Shivakumar said, the life of Siddaramaiah Avaru is one of the best reflections of this idea.Adhering to the adage, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”, he said he looked forward to continuing the journey together for the welfare of the people of Karnataka.

what happens next?

With the process of change of power formally beginning, the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) is expected to meet soon to elect its new leader. The party high command may also appoint a central observer to monitor the process.After being elected, the new CLP leader will meet Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot and stake claim to form the government. The Governor is expected to verify the majority of the Congress legislature party before inviting the nominated Chief Minister to form the government. Karnataka CLP meeting will be held on Saturday at 4 pm.The incoming chief minister, expected to be Shivakumar, will later submit a list of ministers to form the new cabinet before the swearing-in of the Council of Ministers.Cabinet structure has emerged as the next challengeThe composition of the cabinet is expected to be one of the most sensitive issues in the coming days. There is speculation that the Congress leadership may try to accommodate leaders considered close to Siddaramaiah in the new government to maintain organizational balance and ensure a smooth transition.The distribution of ministerial portfolios, possible appointment of deputy chief ministers and representation for various factions within the party are all expected to be included in the next round of consultations.Sources told news agency PTI that Siddaramaiah may seek a place for his son and his loyalists in the new Karnataka cabinet, including the post of Deputy Chief Minister.Although the leadership question has been resolved, the coming days will determine both Siddaramaiah’s influence in the new dispensation and the final shape of the Karnataka government under Shivakumar.

Akshay Kumar praised Punjab sprinter Gurindervir Singh, who created history by clocking 10.09 seconds at the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition 2026 in Ranchi and became India’s fastest runner in the 100m event. Despite early setbacks and coaches asking him to change events, Gurindervir persevered and proved his doubters wrong.

Akshay Kumar joined in the praise of Punjab Sprinter Gurindervir Singh, who etched his name in the history books by becoming the fastest Indian man in the 100m event. At the 29th National Senior Athletics Federation Championships 2026 held in Ranchi, Gurindervir performed brilliantly by clocking 10.09 seconds, making him the first Indian athlete to complete the men’s 100 meters race in sub 10.1 seconds. On this historic achievement, there was applause from every corner of the country including the stalwarts of the cricket world. Sachin Tendulkar And Yuvraj Singh Also congratulating him. Akshay was also very impressed with the achievement, praising the sprinter and saying that his record-breaking race challenged and changed long-held perceptions about Indian athletes in the world of sprinting.

Akshay Kumar says success of Gurinderveer Singh has changed Rai forever

The actor praised Gurindervir from X and called it a defining moment for Indian athletics. Sharing a photo of the young sprinter, Kumar expressed his surprise at the achievement, saying that he had been following the news of Gurindervir becoming India’s fastest man and was “seriously amazed” by what he has achieved. The actor reflected on how the 100m race was long seen as a foreign arena, dominated by international athletes, while many dismissed the possibility of an Indian competing. With this success, Kumar said, those opinions have now changed for good.

Akshay Kumar is proud of Gurindervir Singh’s association with the armed forces and his Punjabi roots.

Apart from the record breaking race, Akshay Kumar has got more reasons to celebrate Gurinderveer. The actor expressed pride not only in the sprinter’s remarkable achievement on the track, but also in his ties with the armed forces and the fact that the young athlete is from Punjab, a connection that apparently struck a deep chord with Kumar.

Gurinderveer Singh’s journey from self-doubt to becoming India’s fastest man

Gurindervir’s spectacular run means more than just breaking a record. His performance also earned him qualification for the Commonwealth Games and asian gamesWhich is a huge achievement in itself. But his journey till here was not easy. In a chat with Sportstar, the 25-year-old talked about his early days as a sprinter and how many coaches told him to leave the 100m and go for the 400m event instead. At that time many people believed that Indian athletes did not have the right physical structure to perform well in short distance running. But Gurinderveer did not give up nor listen to negative things. He continued to work hard, stay focused and believe in himself. Today, that belief has paid off beautifully, as he stands out as one of the most exciting young athletes in Indian sports.

Akshay Kumar’s upcoming projects: From ‘Golmaal 5’ to alien thriller ‘Saimuk’

On the work front, Akshay Kumar has a packed lineup ahead. The actor is gearing up for many exciting projects including ‘Welcome to the Jungle’, ‘Haivaan’ and ‘Golmaal 5’. He will also be seen in the much talked about alien action thriller ‘Samuk’, which will release on the big screens in 2027.

The British Museum has postponed a lecture on the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah that was scheduled as part of Jewish Culture Month because of planned disruptions that could prevent the event from taking place.The talks, scheduled for Thursday, were postponed after the museum said it had learned that a large number of registered attendees intended to disrupt the proceedings, the BBC reports.In a statement, the museum said the decision was taken to ensure that the event could be held in a safe and respectful environment rather than being derailed by the protests.The museum later confirmed that the lecture, titled Ancient History of Israel and JudahWill be rescheduled for early next month and also livestreamed to accommodate widespread public interest.“We were informed that a significant portion of registered attendees were individuals intentionally intending to disrupt the event,” the museum said, adding that it is committed to providing a space where history and culture can be explored “openly, respectfully and without disruption.”The event is part of Jewish Culture Month, a nationwide event launched by the Board of Deputies of British Jews to celebrate Jewish history, culture and creativity through more than 100 events across the UK.The Board of Deputies called the postponement “deeply regrettable” but said it was working with the museum to rearrange the lectures.“This Jewish Culture Month sees many of Britain’s great cultural institutions partner with us in celebrating British Jewish culture, community and creativity and we will not allow the actions of extremists to stop the British public from enjoying these events,” the organization wrote on Twitter.The decision also drew criticism from the Campaign Against Antisemitism, which argued that the postponement reflected the wider challenges facing Jewish cultural events in Britain.Meanwhile, Tory leader Kami Badenoch urged the government to ensure the event can go ahead, saying Jewish cultural activities were increasingly being canceled or disrupted.The lecture was to be given by Paul Collins, Curator of the Middle East Department at the British Museum, and set out to examine the archaeological and historical evidence relating to the Kingdoms of Israel and Judah between approximately 900 BC and 50 BC.

This image from video provided by KDFW FOX 4 shows a large fire at an apartment complex in Dallas on Thursday, May 28, 2026. (Image credit: KDFW via FOX 4 AP)

At least three people, including a child, were killed and five others were injured Thursday when a gas explosion in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas caused a massive fire and destroyed a two-story apartment building.As firefighters worked the scene, friends and relatives of nearby residents gathered, many of whom were unable to reach their loved ones. This building located south of downtown Dallas was transformed into a black circle. A huge plume of black smoke was visible for miles, the AP reported.Dallas Fire-Rescue Deputy Chief Mark Berry said crews were already responding to a report of a gas leak when the explosion occurred. “We had cavalry coming in,” Berry said. “But the explosion had already happened.”Local natural gas provider Atmos Energy said in a statement that fire officials informed them that a construction crew unrelated to the company had damaged a pipeline near the site. Natural gas service was discontinued in the area. Company officials were at the scene working with investigators.Resident Cassie Proctor said her mother had smelled gas inside the building the day before, but she didn’t think much of it at the time. Proctor was not home at the time of the explosion. She was heartbroken that her cat, Shirley, was trapped inside the debris. Pointing to the clothes she was wearing, she said, “I’ve been sitting there crying for hours. I don’t know what to do. I have everything right here.”He spent the afternoon talking with neighbors who had evacuated. One of them was a girl who was taking care of her younger sister at home. The girl took both the child and their dog to a safe place.Dozens of firefighters reached the scene. Some trained hose on smoldering debris. Others removed burnt wood and debris by hand and searched for anyone trapped below. Dallas Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief James Russ provided an update from the scene. “The fire has been brought under control, but our members are still working at the spot for primary search,” he said.Spokesman Jason Evans said crews had searched less than half of the scene by hand as of late Thursday night. Excavation will be required in some areas. He did not rule out finding more victims. It is also not clear how many residents were living in the complex at the time of the blast. “It was huge,” Evans said of the fire.Authorities set up a family reunification center at a nearby high school. Hours after the explosion, Francis Rizzo was still trying to reach a friend who lived in the building. “She’s not answering her phone,” Rizzo said.Neighbors described the intensity of the explosion. Julie Jensen lived less than a block away. She was sitting on her sofa watching TV when the explosion occurred. “Stuff flew off our walls,” she said. When he looked outside, smoke was rising and neighbors were running away. She grabbed her cat and left, waiting in a nearby parking lot until it was safe to return.Sal de la Rosa was at work at a nearby auto repair shop. “Suddenly, we heard and felt this huge boom. We felt the building shake a little bit,” he said. A co-worker came out and saw thick black smoke rising into the air.

Kerala’s LOP Pinarayi Vijayan

New Delhi: Leader of opposition and former Chief Minister in Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan It rained heavily on the Center and BJP Amidst the ongoing controversy over the presentation ofVande Mataram‘In Kerala Assembly. He alleged that singing the full version of the national anthem was ‘part of the RSS agenda’.Vijayan said there is no need to stand up when the entire version of ‘Vande Mataram’ is sung or only the first two verses are sung.“It was already made clear that there is no need to sing Vande Mataram in its entirety. There are no other constraints on this issue. In fact, there is no need to stand when only the first two verses of Vande Mataram are sung. Singing the full version of Vande Mataram is part of the agenda of the RSS. The entire song was presented during the swearing-in ceremony, which should not have happened. After that experience, it seems the government has taken a tough decision. This is the approach that should be adopted,” he said.His comments came after the BJP accused the Kerala Assembly of disrespecting the national anthem by not presenting the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ during Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’s policy address last Friday.Before and after the Governor’s address, a band team played only the opening verses of the national anthem.Senior BJP leader and Kazhakkoottam MLA V Muraleedharan alleged that there was a Central government directive to require full rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ at events attended by the Governor, but claimed that the Kerala Assembly did not follow it.“This is an insult to Lok Bhavan and the Honorable Governor. The national anthem, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, has also been disrespected, the former Union minister said in a Facebook post.Muraleedharan further accused the VD Satheesan-led UDF government of bowing before ‘Jamaat-e-Islami and CPI(M).’“It is clear from this that the government is accepting their argument that the national anthem is not in line with secularism,” he alleged.The BJP leader also questioned the Congress party’s stand on ‘Vande Mataram’ and said the song was first sung at the Congress national conference in 1896.“We register our protest strongly,” he said.Earlier, during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly formed UDF cabinet led by Chief Minister VD Satheesan, ‘Vande Mataram’ was sung in full. CPI(M) and other left parties objected to the entire rendition and argued that parts of the song were not appropriate in a secular and pluralistic society.In a statement earlier this week, the CPM state secretariat said the decision to present the full version goes against the earlier stance adopted by the Congress Working Committee in 1937, which had recommended deletion of parts of the song.The party also cited the Constituent Assembly discussions in 1950 and claimed that only the first eight lines of ‘Vande Mataram’ were accepted for official use as the national song.According to the CPM, parts of the songs reflect specific religious beliefs and their inclusion in official state ceremonies is not in line with India’s secular traditions.The party further alleged that clauses previously excluded from official use were included during the swearing-in ceremony.The CPM also pointed out that even in BJP-ruled states, including West Bengal, traditional full presentations were not given during the swearing-in ceremony.Amid the controversy, Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar strongly criticized the Left parties and accused them of disrespecting the national anthem and indulging in appeasement politics.“In an attempt to hide the embarrassment of being completely rejected by the people, the CPI(M) has now come forward to question Vande Mataram,” he said.Chandrasekhar said, “Insulting the nation for mere political survival can never be called secularism. A developed Kerala requires unity, harmony and a secure society.”Meanwhile, according to PTI, the newly formed Kerala government clarified that the state administration had no role in deciding the schedule of the swearing-in ceremony and said the event was entirely organized by Lok Bhavan.