India

India's 2027 Census to include 40 questions on Aadhaar, caste and bank accounts

The Ministry of Home Affairs has officially notified a set of 40 questions to be used in the Household Schedule for the Census of India 2027. The questionnaire aims to systematically collect household-level data across the country. Topics covered include Aadhaar details, caste, bank account ownership, and Covid vaccination status. The census will mark a significant data-gathering exercise after years of delay from the original schedule. The structured format is designed to ensure comprehensive and uniform information collection nationwide.

Harbhajan Singh: Attack Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Don't Try to Contain Him

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his view on how bowlers should handle teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Harbhajan believes that a defensive or containment-based approach is unlikely to work against the young talent. Instead, he advocates for an attacking strategy focused on taking wickets rather than limiting runs. He acknowledges that bowlers must accept the risk of conceding boundaries when facing Sooryavanshi. The youngster's aggressive batting style has forced even elite bowlers to rethink their game plans.

Supreme Court Quashes Defamation Case Against Rahul Gandhi Over Savarkar Remarks

The Supreme Court of India has cancelled a defamation case filed against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi related to his remarks about Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. A bench comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Sheel Nagu presided over the matter. The court ruled that the case could not proceed because the required legal sanction had not been obtained before filing. The absence of this mandatory procedural step was cited as the primary ground for quashing the case.

Actor Risheekaa Ssingh criticises Yash's 'Toxic' trailer over depiction of women

Kannada actor Risheekaa Ssingh has publicly spoken out against the trailer of the upcoming film 'Toxic', starring Yash. She raised concerns about how female characters are portrayed and took particular issue with a controversial scene involving the lead actor. Ssingh clarified that her criticism does not undermine her support for the growth of Kannada cinema. The film also features Kiara Advani and Nayanthara and is slated for theatrical release on August 26, 2026. Director Geetu Mohandas had earlier responded to audience reactions following the teaser's release.

Sukhbir Badal Stable After 90-Minute Surgery, Set to Return to Punjab

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal underwent a 90-minute surgical procedure, after which his condition was reported as stable by doctors. Medical staff confirmed that his recovery is progressing satisfactorily following the operation. Badal is expected to be discharged from the hospital on the same day as the procedure. He is likely to be flown back to Punjab in the afternoon, according to an official statement.

Savarkar defamation case: SC quashes Lucknow Court order summoning Rahul

Delhi consumer forum orders JLR to replace Rs 1.57 cr SUV over defects and delays

A Delhi consumer commission has ruled against Jaguar Land Rover and its authorized dealer for deficiency in service. The luxury SUV, priced at Rs 1.57 crore, developed several defects shortly after purchase and was also subject to a nine-month delivery delay. The dealer was additionally held liable for failing to provide certain promised accessories. The commission directed JLR to either replace the vehicle or issue a full refund to the buyer. The automaker was also ordered to pay compensation for mental distress and legal expenses incurred by the complainant.

'Our red line': Shehbaz Sharif threatens India with 'direct response' over Indus Water Treaty

Coriander Prices Surge Past Rs 200/kg as Rains Disrupt Supply

Fresh coriander, once a complimentary addition at vegetable stalls, has seen a sharp price rise crossing Rs 200 per kilogram. Heavy rainfall in key coriander-growing regions has disrupted the supply chain, leading to the spike. The herb, long considered an everyday freebie by shoppers, is now a costly purchase. The shortage has caught consumers off guard as the vegetable was traditionally given away without charge by local vendors.

BJP Chief JP Nadda Admitted to AIIMS, Undergoes Coronary Angiography

BJP national president JP Nadda was admitted to AIIMS hospital on Thursday after experiencing uneasiness. He subsequently underwent a coronary angiography procedure. The development has drawn attention given Nadda's prominent role in national politics. Further details on his health condition and prognosis have not yet been officially disclosed.

Kerala Man on Bail in Girlfriend's Death Case Dies After Self-Poisoning

A Kerala man named Vaisakhan has died after allegedly poisoning himself. He had been arrested in January this year in connection with the death of his girlfriend. At the time of the incident, he was out on bail in the case. Police have confirmed the details surrounding his arrest and subsequent death.

Saudi Arabia Walks a Tightrope Between Pakistan Ties and India Relations

Saudi Arabia faces a delicate balancing act in its commitments under the Mecca pact toward Pakistan. Riyadh's security obligations to Islamabad are constrained by its strategic and economic relationship with New Delhi. Fully aligning with Pakistan on security matters risks undermining Saudi Arabia's ties with India, a relationship Riyadh cannot afford to compromise. Analysts suggest Saudi Arabia's support for Pakistan has clear limits defined by its broader regional interests.

Delhi Master Plan 2047 Proposes 4 Million New Homes, Rental Units and Yamuna Rules

Delhi's Master Plan 2047 has been unveiled, outlining a comprehensive vision for the national capital's urban development over the coming decades. The plan proposes the construction of approximately 4 million new residential units to address the city's growing housing demand. It emphasizes a diverse housing mix, including smaller affordable homes and dedicated rental housing options. The plan also introduces redevelopment of existing areas alongside new growth centres to ease urban density. Additionally, new regulations governing construction and land use on the Yamuna floodplain have been incorporated into the framework.

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.