India

India's CWG Boxing Triumph Sets Stage for Tougher Asian Games Test

India secured seven gold medals in boxing at the Commonwealth Games, marking a historic achievement for the sport in the country. The success is attributed to years of sustained investment and improved training infrastructure. However, coaches and officials acknowledge that the upcoming Asian Games will serve as a more rigorous measure of India's standing on the global stage. Maintaining momentum will require the team to balance celebrating wins while staying focused on future competitions. Ultimately, Indian boxing's long-term goal remains Olympic glory and broader international recognition.

Microsoft sets GPT-4.5 as default internal AI, dealing another blow to Anthropic

Microsoft EVP Jay Parikh issued an internal memo stating the company is not optimizing for high token usage, signaling a shift in its AI strategy. The memo designates OpenAI's GPT-4.5 as the default model for internal use, replacing an auto-router that had previously directed GitHub Copilot workloads to Anthropic's Claude. This move further marginalizes Anthropic within Microsoft's ecosystem, coming months after the company cancelled its Claude Code licences. Additionally, every Microsoft division has now been assigned an AI token budget target, reflecting tighter controls on AI resource consumption.

Musk slams NYC Mayor Mamdani's city-run grocery plan, calls him a thief

Elon Musk has publicly criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's proposal to open city-funded grocery stores. Musk argued that AI and robotics will eventually make goods and services cheaper, questioning the need for such intervention. The city's plan involves establishing five grocery stores intended to reduce costs for shoppers, with private operators handling daily management while the city funds the expenses. Critics have raised concerns about how the initiative will be financed and whether it could harm existing local businesses.

Inside China's Regional Ballistic Missile Arsenal: From DF-11 to DF-27

China's ballistic missile capabilities form a central pillar of its military power across the Indo-Pacific region. The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force operates a wide range of missiles spanning short, medium, and intermediate distances. These weapons are designed to target military bases, naval assets, and critical infrastructure across the region. Advanced systems such as the DF-17 and DF-26 significantly extend China's strike range. The expanding arsenal reflects Beijing's sustained push toward military modernization.

Tanker Reports Explosions Near Hormuz Strait During Iran-Oman Diplomacy

A tanker reported new explosions near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, amid ongoing diplomatic talks between Iran and Oman. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that both the crew and the vessel are safe following the incident. The timing of the blasts coincides with active diplomatic engagement in the region. The incident raises fresh concerns about maritime security in one of the world's most strategically important waterways.

Goa's AI and Deep-Tech Policy in Final Review Stage, Says IT Minister

Goa's IT Minister has confirmed that the state's long-awaited artificial intelligence and deep-tech policy is currently in its final stage and under review. The policy, once approved, is expected to provide a structured framework for advancing technology-driven growth in the state. As part of its broader AI ambitions, Goa is also developing an AI Centre of Excellence in collaboration with premier institutions. Partner institutions include IIT Goa, NIT Goa, and the Goa campus of BITS Pilani. The initiative signals Goa's intent to position itself as a significant player in India's emerging deep-tech ecosystem.

Jharkhand protests: CID arrests 5 more; students open to dialogue with Soren govt

Indian Markets Set to Rise as Oil Slips Below $80 on Iran-US Deal Hopes

Indian stock markets are expected to open on a positive note following a dip in global oil prices. Crude oil has fallen below the $80 mark amid growing optimism over a potential US-Iran peace agreement. Diplomatic talks involving Iran and Oman have fueled hopes of a deal that could ease geopolitical tensions. Lower oil prices generally benefit import-dependent economies like India by reducing fuel and input costs. Investors are watching the developments closely as the outcome could influence market sentiment in the near term.

Bridge Collapse and Mudslides Disrupt Road Network in Nagaland

Heavy rainfall in Nagaland has caused significant damage to infrastructure, with at least one bridge being washed away. Mudslides have further disrupted road connectivity across the region. Authorities have responded by issuing a traffic advisory to alert commuters about the affected routes. Residents and travelers are being urged to exercise caution and avoid impacted roads until conditions improve.

Pakistan crackdown in PoK draws protests on UK streets

Bangladesh protests as ousted PM Hasina addresses media via live link from India

Bangladesh has expressed strong outrage after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina participated in a live media interaction from New Delhi. The Bangladeshi government repeatedly referred to Hasina as a 'convicted genocider' and 'convicted mass murderer' in its official response. Authorities objected to India allowing Hasina to hold the virtual public appearance. The incident has heightened tensions between Bangladesh and India over the presence of the ousted leader on Indian soil.

Video shows petrol bomb attack on Shakib Al Hasan’s home after Hasina presser

Nuvama VP picks Ambuja Cements, Asahi India Glass, Pfizer as top buys for Aug 6

Aakash K Hindocha, Vice President of Research at Nuvama Professional Clients Group and Nuvama Wealth Management, has released his top stock recommendations for August 6, 2026. The analyst has identified Ambuja Cements, Asahi India Glass, and Pfizer as the leading buy calls for the trading session. Along with individual stock picks, Hindocha has also shared his broader market outlook covering the Nifty50 and Bank Nifty indices. These recommendations are intended to guide professional and wealth management clients in their investment decisions for the day.

US to reject incomplete visa, green card applications under new rules

Iran's President Pushes Back on Reports of Rift with Supreme Leader's Son

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly dismissed reports of a rift within the country's leadership. He defended Supreme Leader Khamenei, stating that their meetings had been productive and constructive. Pezeshkian described his interactions with Khamenei as being marked by 'kindness and very sound logic.' The remarks appear to be a direct response to circulating speculation about tensions involving Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader's son.

Hasina's Son Warns Bangladesh Risks Becoming Pakistan-Like State

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has raised alarm over the current political situation in Bangladesh. He claimed that foreign intelligence agencies, most notably Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), are now operating freely within the country. Joy warned that Bangladesh risks transforming into what he described as 'another Pakistan.' His remarks reflect growing concerns about the shifting political and security landscape in Bangladesh following his mother's ouster from power.

Ramayana and Godzilla Minus Zero Set for Box Office Clash on Nov 6, 2026

Two major films, Ramayana and Godzilla Minus Zero, are both scheduled for a worldwide release on November 6, 2026. The release date coincides with the Diwali festive period, giving Ramayana a strong advantage in the Indian market. Godzilla Minus Zero, part of the popular Japanese monster franchise, is expected to draw significant international competition. A key battleground between the two films will be the limited availability of premium IMAX screens globally.

Six killed, including two infants, as old house collapses in UP's Pratapgarh

Six members of a family died after the roof of their century-old house collapsed in Pratapgarh district, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday. Heavy rainfall is believed to have caused the aged structure to give way, trapping the occupants inside. Neighbours raised an alarm and rescue teams were deployed to retrieve the victims from the rubble. The deceased included two infants and four adults, while one survivor was hospitalised for treatment.

Smart Strategies to Reduce Interest Cost on Long-Term Home Loans

Home loans with tenures of 20 to 30 years can accumulate interest running into several lakhs of rupees. In some cases, the total interest paid over the loan period can exceed the original principal amount borrowed. This makes long-term home loans one of the most expensive financial commitments for borrowers. Understanding repayment strategies can help homeowners significantly reduce their overall interest burden.

Total Solar Eclipse on Aug 12, 2026 to Be Largest Over Europe Since 1999

A total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, marking the most significant such event over Europe in nearly three decades. Spain and Iceland are expected to offer the best vantage points for viewing the phenomenon, while the UK will experience only a partial eclipse. NASA plans to use the occasion to conduct scientific research on the Sun's corona. The event is part of a broader cluster of notable celestial occurrences expected throughout August 2026.