India

US Army Apache Helicopter's Safety Record Under Scrutiny After Fatal Crash

A fatal crash involving a US Army Apache helicopter has reignited concerns about the aircraft's safety record. The Apache, despite its strong combat history and advanced capabilities, has been involved in numerous incidents resulting in aircraft loss since 1980. US Army data indicates that the Apache has a higher mishap rate compared to other helicopters in its fleet. Analysts point to the helicopter's demanding operational philosophy as a contributing factor to the frequency of recent crashes.

Supreme Court backs NALSAR students' right to protest, BCI withdraws circular

Students at NALSAR University of Law faced restrictions after the Bar Council of India (BCI) issued a directive targeting their protest activities. The students had been demonstrating over an invitation extended to the Chief Justice of India. Following public criticism and Supreme Court intervention, the BCI reversed its earlier order. The Supreme Court affirmed the students' rights to protest and to engage with the Chief Justice. The matter remains under further review by the Supreme Court.

Air India A320 flight lost control for 4 seconds before 300ft plunge: Report

Union Minister JP Nadda Hospitalised at AIIMS Delhi After Feeling Unwell

Union Minister JP Nadda was admitted to AIIMS Delhi after experiencing uneasiness, according to reports. The BJP national president and Union Health Minister was taken to the premier hospital for medical attention. Further details about his condition or the timeline of events were not immediately available. His hospitalisation has drawn attention given his prominent political role in the current government.

India's 2027 Census to Include Caste, Aadhaar, and Vaccine Location Data

The Indian government has officially notified 40 questions for the upcoming Census 2027. For the first time in India's census history, the exercise will collect data on caste identities of respondents. Beyond caste, the census will also gather information on bank accounts, Aadhaar numbers, and passport details. Additionally, the location where individuals received their Covid-19 vaccine will be recorded as part of the survey.

China launches first commercial insurance for invasive brain-computer interface surgery

China has introduced its first commercial insurance policy covering invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) surgery, marking a landmark development in the country's neurotechnology sector. The policy is a collaboration between state-owned insurer PICC Property and Casualty and a hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University. The move is designed to accelerate the commercialization and broader adoption of BCI innovations within China. It reflects Beijing's strategic ambition to position itself as a global leader in brain-computer interface technology, a field where companies like Elon Musk's Neuralink have been prominent.

US Lost 45 MQ-9 Reaper Drones, a Quarter of Its Fleet, in Iran Conflict

The United States lost 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones during its military conflict with Iran, according to a senior Air Force general. The losses amount to approximately 25% of the entire Reaper drone fleet. The destroyed aircraft represent a financial loss exceeding $1.3 billion. A U.S. Air Force general testified before the Senate, expressing concern over the significant depletion of this critical military asset.

'China stopped our army from patrolling several places in Arunachal': Rahul

Pakistan to send Jinnah-1 rover to Moon via China's Chang'e-8 mission in 2029

Pakistan has announced its first lunar rover, named Jinnah-1, with a planned launch in 2029. The rover will travel as part of China's Chang'e-8 mission, targeting the Moon's south pole. Jinnah-1 is designed to carry out scientific studies in areas including plasma, radiation, and lunar geology. The collaboration represents a landmark achievement for Pakistan's space program. The mission also aims to assess the south pole's potential for natural resources and future human presence.

Supreme Court Halts BCI Action Against NALSAR Students, Seeks Reply on Circulars

The Supreme Court has intervened in a dispute between the Bar Council of India (BCI) and students of NALSAR University of Law. The court directed that no punitive action be taken against NALSAR students or faculty members. The Chief Justice made clear that the matter was between the students and the court, signalling displeasure at BCI's involvement. The Supreme Court has also sought a formal response from BCI regarding the circulars it had issued in connection with the matter.

Manpreet Singh eyes Hockey World Cup glory in what may be his last campaign

Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh has set his sights on ending India's 51-year wait for a World Cup title. The veteran player acknowledged this tournament could be his final World Cup appearance, adding personal significance to the campaign. Manpreet expressed confidence in the squad's talent and experience as key factors that could drive India to victory. The team plans to take the tournament one match at a time, treating every opponent with equal respect. India's strong defensive structure and high fitness levels are expected to complement their attacking play throughout the competition.

Nepal Youths Push to Join Indian Army's Agniveer Scheme Despite Government Ban

Young Nepali men are demanding the right to enlist in the Indian Army under the Agniveer scheme, arguing it offers better prospects than Gulf employment. The Nepali government suspended recruitment of Gurkha soldiers under the scheme, citing conflicts with the 1947 Tripartite Agreement signed by India, Nepal, and Britain. That agreement has historically governed the terms under which Nepali citizens could serve in the Indian and British armies. Despite the official halt, many Nepali youth view military service in India as a more honorable and stable career path than overseas labor migration.

Supreme Court stays Madras HC order that struck down jobs for Karur stampede victims' kin

The Supreme Court has granted interim relief to the Tamil Nadu government by staying a Madras High Court order. The HC had earlier struck down the state government's decision to provide employment to relatives of Karur stampede victims. The apex court questioned the basis for challenging the government's compassionate employment policy for affected families. The High Court had quashed the appointments citing existing guidelines and concerns over setting precedents for future demands. The matter will now proceed further before the Supreme Court.

Phia shopping app removes cookie stuffing features after fraud allegations

Phia, a shopping app co-founded by Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni, has come under scrutiny over allegations of cookie stuffing, a practice where tracking cookies are placed without user consent. The founders acknowledged awareness of the problematic settings and have since removed the features in question. The company is also taking steps to reverse sales transactions that were incorrectly attributed due to the issue. Phia is now working with its brand partners to ensure a transparent and smooth shopping experience going forward.

Hayden says Rohit must weigh desire and endurance as ODI career spotlight grows

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has delivered a candid assessment of Rohit Sharma's cricketing future, stating that the veteran batter holds the key to his own destiny. Hayden noted that Rohit must honestly evaluate his hunger and physical capacity to cope with demanding international schedules. This comes after Rohit retired from Test and T20I cricket, leaving ODIs as his remaining format. His recent performances against England have demonstrated that his batting quality remains intact at the highest level. However, with the 2027 ICC World Cup in Africa on the horizon, scrutiny over his longevity and selection is expected to intensify.

Renowned historian Sumit Sarkar, Subaltern Studies pioneer, dies at 87

Sumit Sarkar, one of India's most distinguished historians and a founding member of the Subaltern Studies Collective, has passed away at the age of 87. He was widely regarded as a key voice in the study of modern Indian history. Sarkar was known not only for his scholarly contributions but also for his principled stands on social and political issues. In 2007, he returned his 2004 Rabindra Puraskar as a mark of protest against the treatment of farmers in West Bengal.

Census 2027: Centre clears 40 questions, caste and Aadhaar details on list

MCX Gold Futures Face Profit Booking After Strong Rally

MCX Gold October futures are experiencing profit booking following a sustained upward rally over recent trading sessions. Prices are currently hovering in the range of Rs 1,52,400 to Rs 1,52,600 on the exchange. The recent price surge appears to be meeting resistance at these levels. Traders and analysts are watching closely to see whether the rally will sustain or give way to further consolidation on August 14.

Kerala Man Stabs Father Over Lawyer Representing Wife in Divorce Case

A man in Puthuvypeen, Kerala, stabbed his own father at their Murikumpadam residence on Thursday evening. The attack was reportedly triggered by the accused's anger over a lawyer representing his wife in court proceedings. The victim, Mohandas, is the father of the accused, and both the son and daughter-in-law work as lawyers. Police have confirmed the incident and are investigating the case.

Sukhbir Badal Attacked Again at Sikh Shrine, Raising Questions on Political Redemption

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked at a Sikh religious site in Nanded, marking the second serious physical assault on him at a religious venue in under two years. The incidents have reignited debate over Badal's efforts to seek religious atonement for past political decisions made during his party's tenure in Punjab. Badal has been undertaking penance at Sikh shrines as directed by the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikh authority. The attacks have prompted broader questions about whether religious acts of contrition can translate into political forgiveness among the Sikh community. Observers note that the violence reflects deep and lingering grievances that continue to shadow Badal more than a decade after the controversial events in question.