Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended warm birthday greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, praising her dedication to public service and describing her life journey as a source of inspiration for people across the country.

In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister lauded President Murmu’s commitment to the nation and highlighted her efforts toward the welfare of the poor and marginalised sections of society. He said her leadership and service continue to motivate citizens.

Modi also wished the President a long and healthy life, noting that her rise to the highest constitutional office reflects the strength of India’s democratic values. He said her journey gives hope to millions and serves as an example of perseverance and public service.

President Murmu, who was born on June 20, 1958, assumed office as the 15th President of India in July 2022. She made history as the first person from a tribal community to become President and the second woman to hold the post.

Her political and public life has included service as a legislator in Odisha, a minister in the state government and Governor of Jharkhand before she was elected President.

The President’s journey from Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district to Rashtrapati Bhavan is often cited as a symbol of social mobility and inclusive representation in Indian democracy.

A NEET UG 2026 aspirant from Nagpur was left shocked after his re-examination admit card reportedly allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi, around 2,500 kilometres away from his hometown, raising concerns over possible technical errors in the examination process.

The student, identified as Abdullah Mohammad Talib, is scheduled to appear for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination on June 21. However, when he downloaded his hall ticket, he found that his assigned test centre was located in Abu Dhabi, despite being based in Nagpur.

According to reports, the unexpected allotment has caused significant distress to the student and his family. They pointed out that the candidate does not possess a passport, making international travel impossible within such a short timeframe.

The incident comes amid reports of technical difficulties faced by some candidates while accessing NEET UG 2026 re-examination admit cards. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has previously acknowledged server-related and technical glitches affecting certain students and said its teams were working to resolve the issues.

The NEET UG 2026 re-examination is scheduled to be conducted on June 21, with the NTA having issued fresh admit cards and exam-related advisories for eligible candidates.

The student’s family is now seeking immediate intervention from the authorities to ensure that a suitable examination centre is allotted before the test date.

Father’s Day 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, June 21, offering families an opportunity to honour fathers and father figures for their love, support, guidance and sacrifices. In India, as well as in several countries including the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, the occasion is observed on the third Sunday of June every year.

The day is dedicated not only to fathers but also to grandfathers, stepfathers, guardians and mentors who play an important role in shaping lives and supporting families.

When is Father’s Day 2026?

Father’s Day 2026 falls on June 21, which is the third Sunday of June. The date changes each year, but the tradition of celebrating it on the third Sunday of June remains the same in many countries, including India.

History of Father’s Day

The modern observance of Father’s Day is widely linked to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. Inspired by Mother’s Day celebrations, she wanted to honour her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who raised six children as a single parent after his wife’s death. Her efforts led to one of the earliest Father’s Day celebrations in Spokane on June 19, 1910.

Over the following decades, support for the observance grew across the United States. Father’s Day was officially recognised as a national holiday in 1972 when then-US President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation establishing it as an annual celebration.

Significance of Father’s Day

Father’s Day serves as a reminder to acknowledge the contribution of fathers and father figures in family life. The occasion recognises their role in providing emotional support, guidance, protection and encouragement. It is also an opportunity for families to express gratitude and strengthen their bonds through meaningful interactions and shared experiences.

How is Father’s Day celebrated?

People celebrate Father’s Day in different ways, depending on family traditions and personal preferences. Common celebrations include:

• Spending quality time with family
• Organising a special meal or outing
• Giving greeting cards and gifts
• Sharing heartfelt messages and memories
• Planning activities based on a father’s hobbies and interests

Many families are increasingly choosing experiences such as dining outings, creative workshops and family gatherings over traditional gifts.

Budget-friendly Father’s Day gift ideas

You do not need to spend a large amount of money to make Father’s Day special. Some thoughtful and affordable gift options include:

• A handwritten letter expressing gratitude
• A personalised photo frame or photo collage
• A notebook, planner or quality pen
• A customised coffee mug
• A favourite book
• Homemade snacks or a special meal
• A keychain with a personal message
• A DIY greeting card
• A playlist featuring your father’s favourite songs
• A family memory scrapbook

Personalised and heartfelt gifts often carry more emotional value than expensive presents and can become cherished keepsakes.

Father’s Day 2026, which falls on June 21, is an occasion to celebrate the love, sacrifices and guidance provided by fathers and father figures. Whether through a thoughtful gift, a heartfelt message or simply spending time together, the day offers a meaningful opportunity to show appreciation and create lasting memories.