India name Chess Olympiad squads with Gukesh, Pragg and Vaishali set to lead

Handing Dipke his badge, constable ‘resigns’ from Jantar Mantar stage, Uttarakhand police say already under suspension

US-Saudi Nuclear Deal Raises Proliferation Fears Across Middle East

The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a nuclear cooperation agreement permitting Riyadh to develop uranium enrichment capabilities for civilian energy purposes. Experts caution that the deal risks blurring the boundary between civilian nuclear use and weapons-grade enrichment. Regional powers, particularly Israel, have voiced strong concerns over the possibility of a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. The agreement has also drawn attention from countries like India, given its potential to destabilize an already volatile region. Analysts warn the pact could trigger broader proliferation anxieties across the geopolitical landscape.

GCCs account for 37% of India's office leasing with 105 mn sq ft since 2022

Global Capability Centres (GCCs) have emerged as a dominant force in India's commercial real estate sector since 2022. Foreign companies have collectively leased close to 105 million square feet of premium office space across the country during this period. This activity accounts for 37% of total office transactions nationwide, underscoring the scale of GCC-driven demand. India's growing reputation as a preferred destination for global operations continues to attract multinational firms. Analysts expect office space demand to remain robust as GCC expansion shows no signs of slowing down.

RAF reviews excessive force, pellet gun allegations from July 20 student protests

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has launched an internal verification process to examine its personnel's conduct during student protests on July 20. Allegations of excessive force and the use of pellet guns against protesters are at the centre of the inquiry. The Central Reserve Police Force is overseeing the internal review. Video footage capturing clashes and alleged attacks on security personnel is also being analysed. The crackdown occurred amid student demonstrations demanding the resignation of the education minister.