India

US and India Deepen Defence, Nuclear and AI Cooperation: State Dept

The United States and India are broadening their bilateral cooperation across defence and civil nuclear sectors, a senior American official has stated. US Assistant Secretary of State S. Paul Kapur made the announcement, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. The expansion also includes the adoption of trusted artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. These developments are seen as key drivers of economic growth in both countries.

Jana Nayagan crosses Rs 200 crore globally in 4 days despite Monday dip

Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan experienced a significant box office drop on its first Monday, a common trend for big releases after the opening weekend. Despite the dip, the film crossed Rs 200 crore in global gross collections within just four days of its release. By the end of day five, its net earnings in India stood at Rs 134.90 crore. Worldwide gross collections reached Rs 233.24 crore after five days. Occupancy rates showed a partial recovery during evening and night shows on Monday.

Assam to Drop Cases Against NEET-UG Protest Participants

The Assam government on Monday announced it would withdraw all cases and legal proceedings filed against individuals who took part in protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. The decision follows a similar move by the Bihar government, which had earlier dropped cases against protesters in the state. Authorities assured that no further action would be taken against those who participated in the demonstrations. The protests were sparked by widespread allegations of misconduct and irregularities surrounding the NEET-UG entrance examination.

576 Indians Report Over Rs 100 Crore Income in FY25, Highest Rise in 4 Years

Government data reveals that 576 individuals disclosed income exceeding Rs 100 crore in the financial year 2024-25. This marks the largest single-year addition in four years, with 161 new entrants joining the ultra-high-income bracket. The majority of these top earners are non-salaried individuals, consistent with historical patterns in this income segment. The figures also reflect a broader growth in India's direct tax base, with the number of income tax filers rising significantly since 2013-14. Direct taxes now account for a notably larger share of total government revenue compared to earlier years.

How Roger Federer's Family Shaped His Path to Tennis Greatness

Roger Federer's rise to becoming one of tennis' all-time greats was built on a strong foundation of family support. His wife Mirka stood by him through both injuries and triumphs throughout his career. His parents played a key role in instilling the values that guided him on and off the court. At his emotional retirement, Federer paid heartfelt tribute to his loved ones. He acknowledged that his greatest achievement was not his titles alone, but the people who supported him every step of the way.

‘There would be firing… rapes and murders will happen’: Kerala to probe RSS leader’s remarks on Jantar Mantar protest

HDFC Bank Fines MD and CFO Rs 1 Lakh Each Over MSRDC Deposit Deal

HDFC Bank's board has penalized its Managing Director and CFO with fines of Rs 1 lakh each over deposit arrangements made with Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). An internal review concluded that the executives had overstepped business boundaries, though no personal gain or malicious intent was found. The executives also received formal warning letters alongside the monetary penalties as recommended by the review. The action comes amid the Reserve Bank of India's push for stronger board-level oversight of senior management. HDFC Bank has said it will formally communicate the matter and its findings to the RBI.

Mahomes Returns to Chiefs Camp After ACL Recovery as Family Life Stays in Full Swing

NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been cleared for full participation at the Kansas City Chiefs' 2026 training camp, months after suffering ACL and MCL tears in December. His wife Brittany shared an emotional Instagram post marking his departure, saying training camp farewells have become increasingly difficult. The couple, married since 2022, are parents to three young children — Sterling, 5, Bronze, 3, and Golden, 1. Off the field, they manage a wide portfolio including Mahomes' record $504.75 million contract, a food allergy foundation, and co-ownership of the KC Current soccer club. Despite their high-profile commitments, the family continues to prioritize ordinary day-to-day routines together.

Farokh Engineer backs Sooryavanshi for ODI debut, wants him to open with Rohit

Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer has called for teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be included in India's ODI squad. Engineer believes Sooryavanshi's performances in the Zimbabwe series have demonstrated his readiness for international cricket. He suggested the young batter should open alongside Rohit Sharma in future ODI fixtures. Engineer also recommended moving Shubman Gill down to the number four position to accommodate the change. The veteran cricketer highlighted Sooryavanshi's fearless batting style as a key asset for the Indian team.

World Hepatitis Day: How a 19th-Century Vaccine Scare Led to Hepatitis Discovery

Jaundice was documented in ancient texts, but its underlying cause eluded scientists for thousands of years. Clues began emerging through outbreaks linked to contaminated vaccines and wartime medical practices, which revealed that hepatitis could spread via infected materials. The pivotal breakthrough came when scientist Baruch S. Blumberg identified the Australia antigen, transforming the diagnosis and prevention of hepatitis B. This discovery paved the way for identifying additional hepatitis viruses and understanding the disease more broadly. Today, millions worldwide benefit from safer blood transfusions and effective vaccines developed through decades of persistent research.

Zelensky Meets US Senators as Russia Sanctions Bill Heads to Vote

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with US senators, with the visit coinciding with a significant legislative moment on Capitol Hill. The Senate is expected to begin voting on a bill that would impose sanctions on Russia, potentially as early as during Zelensky's visit. The sanctions legislation was championed by Senator Lindsey Graham. The timing of the vote alongside Zelensky's presence underscores the urgency and political weight being placed on the measure.

Study links vivid dream realism to personality, sleep habits, and Covid-19

A new study has identified personality traits, sleeping patterns, and major global events as key factors influencing how realistic dreams feel. Researchers analysed over 3,700 dream and waking-life reports to reach their conclusions. The data was gathered from 287 adults ranging in age from 18 to 70. The study also found that events like the Covid-19 pandemic may have had a measurable impact on dream experiences. The findings offer new insight into why some dreams feel vivid and memorable while others seem fragmented and abstract.

Supreme Court Calls for Creative Solutions to Fix Exam Paper Leak Crisis

The Supreme Court has called for innovative, out-of-the-box thinking to address the persistent problem of examination paper leaks in India's education system. A high-powered committee has been constituted to drive reforms in the education sector. The court expressed concern over the ad hoc nature of the current examination system, emphasizing the need for proper institutionalization. The government has been directed to explore additional safeguards, particularly for online examinations. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the NEET paper leak petition on August 3.

INS Sudarshini leaves US after joining America's 250th Independence Day celebrations

Indian Naval Ship Sudarshini has departed for Portugal after concluding its visit to the United States. The vessel took part in celebrations marking America's 250th Independence Day in Boston. Sudarshini sailed alongside an international fleet of tall ships, representing India as a goodwill ambassador. The ship's participation helped highlight India's maritime heritage and reinforced bilateral naval ties. The ongoing voyage is seen as a demonstration of India's growing presence and professionalism on the global maritime stage.

X Launches Banking Service for US Premium Subscribers in 'Everything App' Push

Elon Musk's social media platform X has rolled out its new X Money banking service to US users. The feature became available on Monday, exclusively for subscribers of X's paid Premium and Premium+ tiers. The move is part of Musk's broader ambition to transform X into an all-in-one 'everything app.' By integrating financial services, X is expanding beyond social media into the banking space. This marks a significant step in Musk's vision to diversify the platform's offerings for its paying user base.

Supreme Court to examine anti-defection law interpretation on party mergers

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea seeking clarification on the anti-defection law, specifically regarding political party merger provisions. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal contended that these merger clauses can be misused to overturn electoral mandates. The court recognised that the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution raises significant concerns in its current application. A notice has been issued to the Central Government seeking its position on the matter. The outcome of this legal challenge could carry far-reaching consequences for India's political system.

Grieving mother targeted by review bombing after son Nolan Wells' death

Following the recent death of her son Nolan Wells, his mother has been subjected to a coordinated campaign of one-star reviews on her professional pages. The negative ratings appear to have no connection to her actual work or services, a tactic commonly known as review bombing. Supporters of the family have called on review platforms to remove the fraudulent ratings. Advocates argue that targeting a grieving parent's livelihood in this manner is harmful and unjust.

Supreme Court: Insolvency shield is for firm, not promoters

Surfside Beach loses $545K in email scam targeting contractor payment

Surfside Beach, South Carolina, is investigating a fraud case after $545,598 meant for Wildcat Construction was redirected to a scammer-controlled bank account. The scheme unfolded during what appeared to be a routine email exchange regarding payment for completed work. Authorities believe a sophisticated email scam was used to intercept and divert the funds. The contractor has reportedly indicated that warning signs were present but went unaddressed prior to the fraudulent transfer.

Sarvesh Kushare wins historic silver in high jump at Commonwealth Games

Indian athlete Sarvesh Kushare made history by becoming the first Indian to win a silver medal in the men's high jump event at the Commonwealth Games. The 31-year-old national record holder achieved the feat by clearing a height of 2.25 metres. Jamaica's Romaine Beckford claimed the gold medal, while England's Jack Kimani secured bronze with a jump of 2.20 metres. Kushare's podium finish marks a landmark moment for Indian athletics at the Commonwealth Games.