India

Gurgaon's pothole problem persists as root causes remain unaddressed each monsoon

Gurgaon continues to face recurring road damage and waterlogging every monsoon season, exposing deep-rooted flaws in the city's drainage and construction systems. Despite repeated spending on road repairs, authorities have failed to address the underlying infrastructure problems. Experts point out that roads function as part of an interconnected network, making adequate drainage a critical component of any lasting solution. The annual repair cycle suggests a reactive approach rather than a long-term structural fix to the city's infrastructure challenges.

Better.com Founder Vishal Garg Ousted as CEO Over Judgment Concerns

Indian-American entrepreneur Vishal Garg has been removed as CEO of Better Home & Finance, with the company citing doubts about his judgment and credibility. The decision follows years of controversy, including his widely criticized 2021 decision to lay off 900 employees via a Zoom call. Better has also suffered a steep decline in market value since its peak during the pandemic era. Garg, who is contesting his removal, has reportedly offered to serve as CEO for just one dollar per year in a bid to reclaim his role.

Haryana Police Deploy Plainclothes Officers, Sparking Legal Compliance Questions

Haryana Police have confirmed that officers spotted in civilian attire belong to special police units. The deployment has raised questions about whether such action complies with existing court orders. The use of plainclothes personnel in operations has drawn scrutiny from legal observers and the public. Authorities have yet to provide detailed clarification on the specific court directives in question.

Devdutt Padikkal scores Test century on Independence Day, ends India's No.3 drought

Devdutt Padikkal made history on August 15 by becoming the first cricketer to score an international Test century on India's Independence Day. The left-handed batter remained unbeaten on 131 runs at the close of Day 1 of the Test match against Sri Lanka. Padikkal batted at number three, a position from which India had been waiting long for a Test hundred. The milestone also places him alongside Virat Kohli as only the second Indian to achieve this distinction.

Padikkal marks Test return with maiden century in Galle opener against Sri Lanka

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. The left-hander had been out of India's Test side for 632 days since featuring in the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Padikkal and KL Rahul, both Karnataka teammates, forged a 150-run partnership to put India in a commanding position. The innings came on the back of Padikkal's improved form, role clarity, and focused work on his game against spin during his time away from the Test arena.

Dhanbad-Coimbatore Amrit Bharat Express: Check train number, route, stops and timings

US Spent $33.1M Relocating Times Beach After Severe Dioxin Contamination

The Missouri town of Times Beach was permanently evacuated after dangerous levels of dioxin were discovered in its soil. The toxic chemical had been sprayed on the town's unpaved roads during the 1970s as a dust control measure. A major flood in 1982 intensified fears of widespread contamination spreading beyond the town. The US government spent $33.1 million to relocate all residents away from the affected area. An incinerator was later built to process more than 265,000 tons of contaminated material from the site.

Solar panel recycling could unlock $1 trillion in economic value by 2060

Discarded solar panels are projected to generate substantial waste by 2060, raising serious environmental concerns. However, recycling these panels properly could recover close to one trillion dollars worth of materials. Middle-income nations, with China leading the way, are expected to produce the largest volumes of retired panels. Experts suggest that a phased subsidy approach could help distribute economic benefits more equitably between wealthier and poorer countries. Investing in recycling infrastructure now would help manage the future waste surge while also reinforcing global supply chains.

Modi threatened to skip speech unless bulletproof glass was removed at Red Fort in 2014

Former Defence Secretary RK Mathur has revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanded the removal of bulletproof glass at Red Fort before his first Independence Day address in 2014. Mathur recalled that he and the then Intelligence Bureau Director had briefed Modi on security arrangements ahead of August 15. Despite the security briefing, Modi stood firm on his demand to remove the protective barrier. The disclosure sheds light on a behind-the-scenes security standoff that preceded Modi's inaugural Independence Day speech as Prime Minister.

Ukraine offers Black Sea shipping truce; Russia yet to respond : Report

Khabib backs Makhachev ahead of UFC 330 title defense against Garry

Islam Makhachev is set to defend his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in Philadelphia this Saturday. His mentor and former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has publicly praised Makhachev's dedication and hard work leading up to the bout. Although Makhachev enters the fight as the clear favorite, Nurmagomedov acknowledged that Garry poses a genuine threat. A win would extend Makhachev's winning streak to seventeen consecutive victories. Garry, considered the underdog, is motivated to use this high-profile fight to cement his own legacy in the sport.

RBI Issues Guidelines on Locking Financed Smartphones for Missed EMIs

The Reserve Bank of India has released a new framework governing how lenders can handle loan recovery on devices purchased through EMI financing. The guidelines specifically address whether lenders are permitted to remotely block or lock smartphones if borrowers miss EMI payments. RBI issued these rules to bring clarity and regulation to the growing practice of device-linked lending. The new framework is set to come into effect from January 1, 2027.

Taliban Completes 5 Years in Power Amid Mounting Humanitarian Concerns

The Taliban has marked five years since taking control of Afghanistan, a milestone drawing sharp criticism from international bodies. The United Nations and various global organisations have raised concerns over the group's handling of the country's ongoing humanitarian and natural crises. A key factor cited for the inadequate crisis response is the Taliban's severe restrictions imposed on Afghan women. Rights groups continue to sound alarms over the deteriorating situation faced by the Afghan population under Taliban rule.

'Unfortunate, irresponsible': J&K CM's remarks on Article 370 & PoK draw BJP fire

TN BJP Chief Sparks Row With Personal Jab at CM Over 'Missing Father' Comment

Tamil Nadu BJP president Nagenthran made a personal remark targeting Chief Minister Vijay, referencing his father in a pointed dig. The comment drew sharp criticism from ministers and leaders of Vijay's party, TVK. They collectively condemned Nagenthran's statement, calling it uncivilised and inappropriate. The incident has added fresh tension to the political rivalry between the BJP and TVK in Tamil Nadu.

USS Abraham Lincoln heads home after extended deployment amid welfare concerns

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is returning home following a prolonged deployment. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao downplayed reports of supply shortages and difficulties faced by sailors on board. The Navy has also disputed claims that a mental health crisis exists among the ship's crew, calling such allegations exaggerated. The extended mission underscores the growing strain on the US Navy's carrier fleet. The USS George Washington is set to replace the Abraham Lincoln in Middle East operations.

Second Major Quake Hits Indonesia's Sumatra Hours After 7.7 Tremor Kills 40

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia's Sumatra island, with its epicentre near Pematangsiantar, approximately 126 kilometres southeast of the regional capital Medan. The tremor occurred just hours after a stronger 7.7-magnitude earthquake had already hit the country, claiming at least 40 lives. The back-to-back seismic events have raised serious concerns about further casualties and damage in the region. Indonesia, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is frequently struck by significant earthquakes.

Mahomes couple donates $5 million to upgrade Texas Tech football facilities

NFL star Patrick Mahomes and his wife Brittany have donated $5 million to Texas Tech University to support the development of new football facilities. The contribution significantly boosts the university's ongoing fundraising campaign for the project. In recognition of the gift, the Mahomeses will receive naming rights to prominent sections of the new complex. Patrick, who played college football at Texas Tech, has maintained a strong connection to the university. The donation reflects the couple's long-term commitment to advancing the school's athletic programs.

FSSAI lifts 11-brand liquor ban in Tamil Nadu after compliance pledge

India's food safety regulator FSSAI has revoked its prohibition order against 11 liquor brands in Tamil Nadu. The reversal came after the company in question appealed against the original ban and promised to meet regulatory compliance standards. Following the appeal, FSSAI withdrew the prohibition and replaced it with an improvement notice instead. Officials confirmed that the decision to lift the ban was contingent on the company's commitment to adhere to the required guidelines.

Govinda urges wife Sunita Ahuja to stop using abusive language in public

Bollywood actor Govinda has publicly asked his wife Sunita Ahuja to stop using foul language, particularly phrases targeting mothers and sisters. The actor expressed concern about the negative influence such behaviour could have on young audiences. Govinda also stressed that public figures carry a responsibility to set a positive example. Sunita's candid remarks about their personal life have meanwhile drawn significant attention and sparked widespread debate among fans.