India

German farmer saves gay sheep from slaughter, turns them into rights symbols

Michael Stücke, a German farmer, rescues homosexual sheep that are typically discarded or slaughtered by the agricultural industry. He channels these animals into his Rainbow Wool project, which uses them as symbols for both animal and human rights. Revenue generated from wool sales and partnerships is directed to the LSVD+ foundation, which provides support to refugees. The initiative also aims to challenge social prejudices by highlighting that homosexuality occurs naturally in animals. Through this work, Stücke advocates for broader acceptance and safety for marginalized communities worldwide.

CJP Protest Leader Refuses to Stand Down Despite Wangchuk Ending Hunger Strike

Abhijeet Dipke, a leader at the ongoing CJP protest, has refused to call off the demonstration even after Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike late Thursday night. Wangchuk suspended his fast following assurances from the government on his key demands. Dipke made clear that he would not stand down even if Wangchuk himself asked him to. The protest leaders are also demanding the resignation of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Talks between the Centre and protest representatives are reported to be ongoing.

Philippines Condemns China Coast Guard Over Water Cannon Use in Second Day of Clashes

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has accused China of deploying water cannons against its vessels in a confrontation that has continued for a second consecutive day. PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela publicly condemned the actions of the China Coast Guard, describing them as dangerous and unprofessional. The clashes point to escalating tensions between the two nations in disputed waters. The incident marks a continuation of ongoing friction between China and the Philippines over contested maritime territory.

SC proposes special courts for Manipur violence cases; directs CBI to expedite investigations

SC bans posting, reposting of court hearing clips without prior permission

Pakistan's Asim Munir Brokered Saudi-Iran Deal Using Secret Oil Transport Pact

Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir reportedly played a key role in mediating a diplomatic deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran. He leveraged a covert joint oil transport arrangement between Pakistan and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a bargaining tool. The oil venture, involving the quiet shipment of Iranian oil to Pakistan, has been operating since late last year. Munir is said to have used the continued operation of this deal as an incentive to bring the two regional rivals to the table. The report suggests Pakistan's behind-the-scenes energy dealings with Iran gave Munir significant diplomatic leverage.

NYC Police Probe Two Upper West Side Stabbings as Possible Hate Crimes

New York City police are investigating two separate stabbing incidents on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Witnesses reported that the suspect shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during both attacks. Authorities have arrested 51-year-old Raul Morales in connection with both incidents. Investigators are reviewing the suspect's mental health history as part of the probe. Police are also determining whether the attacks meet the legal threshold to be classified as hate crimes.

'Who is taking his words seriously?' Pawan Khera on PM Modi's video message over paper leaks

Czech scientists test giant grass to restore war-contaminated Ukrainian farmland

Scientists in the Czech Republic are conducting trials with Miscanthus, a fast-growing perennial grass, to assess its potential in rehabilitating Ukrainian agricultural land damaged by war. The research is supported by a NATO-backed project focused on environmental recovery in conflict-affected regions. The grass is being evaluated for its ability to extract pollutants from contaminated soil and improve overall soil health. Beyond remediation, the plant could also serve as a source of biomass for renewable energy production. The ultimate goal is to return degraded farmland near areas like Bucha to productive agricultural use.

CJI Surya Kant denies refusing hearing on police action against students

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has dismissed media reports claiming he refused to hear a petition related to police action against students. The CJI clarified that no formal petition was ever filed before the court challenging the alleged use of force. A lawyer had only presented a letter representation, not a proper legal petition, before the bench. The clarification came two days after the lawyer sought an urgent hearing over alleged police force used during a student protest on July 20. The CJI called the reports reckless, emphasizing the distinction between a letter representation and a formally filed petition.

Parliament Panel Recommends Dedicated Crypto Regulator Weeks After RBI Warning

A parliamentary panel in India has proposed the creation of a dedicated regulatory body to oversee cryptocurrency activities in the country. The recommendation follows concerns raised by the Reserve Bank of India about the risks associated with digital assets. Currently, cryptocurrencies in India are subject to taxation, and crypto exchanges are required to share transaction data with anti-money laundering authorities. The proposal signals a growing push for a formal oversight framework as digital asset activity continues to expand in the country.

Pacific Decadal Oscillation linked to Gujarat's heavy rainfall, scientists say

Scientists have connected the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) to conditions that may have contributed to Gujarat's recent heavy rainfall. The PDO is a long-term climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean that influences weather systems over extended periods. Unlike El Niño, which operates on shorter timescales of months to years, the PDO shifts phases over decades. Researchers consider understanding the PDO important for interpreting monsoon behaviour and anticipating extreme weather events in regions like India.

Ken-Betwa agitation claims first win, but activist leading it isn’t done yet

Homeowner converts son's bedroom into kitchen, saves nearly $20,000

A homeowner undertook an unconventional renovation by transforming her son's bedroom into a fully functional kitchen. The project improved the home's overall layout and increased the amount of natural light in the space. By opting for a DIY approach and making budget-conscious decisions, she saved approximately $20,000 in costs. The renovation presented significant structural challenges, including asbestos removal and the handling of a load-bearing wall. The project highlights how creative problem-solving can lead to cost-effective and rewarding home improvements.

'There is such a thing as optics too': Opposition reacts to Wangchuk ending hunger strike

Mark Cuban urges AI giants to invest in communities or face growing backlash

Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban has advised top AI companies, including Microsoft, Anthropic, and OpenAI, to invest billions directly in communities affected by AI-driven disruption. Cuban argued that these firms are currently losing the public relations battle and need to make people a central priority. He specifically called on AI companies to support artists and creatives whose livelihoods are being threatened by the technology. Cuban also warned that ignoring the concerns of everyday workers could ultimately hurt business growth and long-term capacity. He urged AI firms to actively engage with impacted towns and cities to reduce public hostility toward the industry.

Supreme Court to Monitor NEET Reforms Year-Round, Pushes for Systemic Overhaul

The Supreme Court has assured continuous year-round monitoring of reforms to the NEET examination process. A bench comprising Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe directed authorities to file an affidavit detailing concrete steps taken to institutionalise reforms. The court emphasised that lasting structural changes are needed rather than temporary fixes. Justice Narasimha specifically pointed out that deploying the Indian Air Force to transport question papers securely — a measure adopted following a paper leak — was merely an ad hoc solution and not a sustainable long-term arrangement.

Man Recounts Being Hit by Pellet Gun During CJP Anti-NEET Protest in Delhi

A man was injured during a protest march held on July 20 by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The demonstration was organized to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in connection with the NEET paper leak controversy. Speaking to NDTV, the injured man said he witnessed a police officer pointing a pellet gun directly at him before he was hit. The incident has drawn attention to the use of pellet guns by law enforcement during the protest.

Vijay's Farewell Film Jana Nayagan Earns Rs 49 Crore on Day 2 in India

Jana Nayagan, actor Vijay's farewell film, collected Rs 49 crore in India gross on its second day of release. The film is drawing packed audiences across theaters nationwide, reflecting strong box office momentum. Tamil Nadu has emerged as the largest contributing market for the film's earnings. With the weekend ahead, collections are anticipated to climb even higher.

Vijay's Farewell Film Jana Nayagan Earns Rs 49 Crore on Day 2 India Gross

Vijay's final film Jana Nayagan collected Rs 49 crore in India gross on its second day of release. The film has been drawing packed audiences across theaters nationwide since its opening. Tamil Nadu has emerged as the strongest performing market for the movie. With the weekend ahead, collections are anticipated to climb even higher in the coming days.