India

Skyroot Aerospace Set to Launch India's First Private Orbital Rocket by August 4

Indian space startup Skyroot Aerospace is preparing to launch Vikram-1, the country's first privately developed orbital-class rocket, before August 4. The milestone represents a significant advancement for India's growing private space sector. Skyroot Aerospace has been at the forefront of India's push to open its space industry to private players. The launch is expected to mark a new chapter in India's broader space achievements, which have recently included missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Meta in Talks to Lease AI Computing Power to Anthropic in $10B Deal

Meta is in early-stage negotiations to lease AI computing infrastructure to Anthropic in a deal potentially worth up to $10 billion over two years, according to a New York Times report. The arrangement would allow Meta to monetise its substantial data-centre investments, mirroring a strategy previously employed by Elon Musk's SpaceX. Anthropic reportedly initiated the proposal in June, motivated by a growing shortage of Nvidia chips that has been putting pressure on its Claude AI models. The deal, if finalised, would mark a significant commercial pivot for Meta in how it leverages its AI hardware capacity.

FIFA Reverses US Player Balogun's Suspension After Trump Backs Decision

FIFA reversed the suspension of US footballer Folarin Balogun, a move that drew public approval from President Donald Trump. Trump described the reversal as a 'good decision,' signaling his involvement or interest in the matter. The case had become a significant controversy during the ongoing tournament, attracting widespread criticism directed at both FIFA's leadership and the US president. Balogun's suspension had sparked debate about governance and political influence in international football.

Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Threatens Bollywood Actor Aamir Khan

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has received threats allegedly from members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The threats were purportedly issued by Arzu Bishnoi, the jailed gangster's brother, along with an associate identified as Tyson Bishnoi. The gang has previously targeted several high-profile individuals, including celebrities and businesspersons. The nature and motive behind the specific threat against Aamir Khan have not been fully detailed in initial reports.

Skyroot’s Vikram-1 to launch shortly on maiden orbital mission: Why it matters, what the rocket can do

Hyundai Factory Halts as Workers Strike Over Atlas Robot Deployment

Hyundai workers in South Korea have launched a partial strike over concerns about the introduction of Boston Dynamics' Atlas robots on the factory floor. The union is demanding job security safeguards before any automation is rolled out. Negotiations between workers and management are currently underway, focusing on AI integration and employment protections. This marks the first recorded instance in the auto industry where a factory has been shut down specifically over automation concerns. The disruption is expected to have a notable impact on Hyundai's vehicle production output and sales.

UN raises concern over unrest in PoK, seeks investigation into protest-related deaths

Messi aims to stop Yamal from shining at the 2026 World Cup

Football legend Lionel Messi has expressed his desire to prevent Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal from having a standout performance at the upcoming World Cup. The two players are set to face each other as international rivals, with Messi representing Argentina and Yamal playing for Spain. Messi acknowledged Yamal's talent but made clear his competitive intent to deny the young star a memorable tournament. The remarks highlight the anticipated rivalry between the reigning World Cup holders Argentina and a strong Spanish side at the 2026 edition.

CDC links Taco Bell shredded lettuce to Cyclospora outbreak affecting 1,600

US health authorities have identified shredded lettuce served at Taco Bell as the source of a Cyclospora parasitic outbreak. The contamination sickened more than 1,600 people and resulted in 94 hospitalizations spread across five states. Investigators traced the tainted lettuce back through the supply chain to a farm located in central Mexico. In response, supplier Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled its iceberg lettuce and pulled the product from the US market.

Delhi Police moves Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar to Hospital Under Covert Operation

Delhi Police carried out a pre-planned covert operation to remove climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar. Wangchuk was subsequently shifted to Safdarjung Hospital citing deteriorating health conditions. Authorities justified the move by referencing a Delhi High Court order and medical advice. The operation was designed to minimise resistance and ensure a clear evacuation route. Despite Wangchuk's removal, protesters continued their demonstration at the site.

Sindhu reaches Japan Open 2026 final, first BWF title match in over two years

PV Sindhu has advanced to the final of the Japan Open 2026, marking a historic milestone in Indian badminton. She progressed after Chinese opponent Chen Yufei retired mid-match due to injury. The result also ended Sindhu's losing streak against Chen, giving her a first victory over the Chinese player since 2019. It is Sindhu's first appearance in a BWF Tour title match in more than two years. She will compete against Japan's Akane Yamaguchi in the championship final.

Punjab Police Officer Arrested Over US Racketeering and Rs 4 Crore Extortion Case

A Punjab police officer named Gurinderjit Singh Nagra has been arrested in connection with serious criminal allegations. Nagra was wanted in relation to racketeering charges linked to the United States. He is also accused of extorting approximately Rs 4 crore from a family. The case involves both domestic law enforcement action and international legal scrutiny.

Assam CM eyes Aditya Dhar to direct Lachit Borphukan biopic

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has revealed plans to bring the story of legendary Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan to the big screen. The CM disclosed that he has approached filmmaker Aditya Dhar to direct the ambitious biopic. Dhar is best known for helming the blockbuster Uri: The Surgical Strike and is currently associated with the upcoming film Dhurandhar. If the project moves forward, it would mark another large-scale historical production for the director.

‘Lawrence Bishnoi gang’ threatens Aamir Khan over ‘love jihad’

Virat Kohli pays tribute to cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has mourned the death of West Indian legend Sir Garfield Sobers. Kohli expressed his condolences on X, describing Sobers as one of cricket's all-time greats. He paid tribute to Sobers' enduring legacy, stating it would continue to inspire future generations. The post reflects the widespread grief felt across the cricketing world following Sobers' passing.

UK, Germany Boost Air Power With Storm Drone and Tranche-4 Eurofighters

European nations are ramping up defense investments in response to ongoing Russian aggression and to strengthen collective security. The United Kingdom is advancing its Storm Fighter drone program, aimed at enhancing future combat capabilities through autonomous systems. Germany is upgrading its air force by introducing the latest Tranche 4 variant of the Eurofighter jet. Both moves are part of a wider continental effort to modernize military assets and close capability gaps. The developments signal a significant shift in Europe's approach to air defense strategy.

Sonam Wangchuk resists hospitalisation, wife questions forced admission

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 in support of the NEET protest, opposed being taken to hospital, asserting that his fast was a personal choice. Delhi Police transferred him to Safdarjung Hospital citing health concerns and compliance with court orders. A video shared by the Cockroach Janta Party showed Wangchuk objecting to hospitalisation efforts a day before he was admitted. His wife also raised concerns, questioning why he was hospitalised without his consent.

US Rejects IRGC Claim of Striking Two Oil Tankers in Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it had struck two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) swiftly dismissed the assertion, calling it false on social media platform X. CENTCOM stated that, like most IRGC claims, this one did not reflect reality. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran over maritime security in the strategically vital strait.

Jensen Huang's Iconic Leather Jacket Sells at Auction for $960,000

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's signature leather jacket sold at auction for $960,000, vastly surpassing its pre-sale estimate of $40,000 to $60,000. The jacket had been worn by Huang at a notable 2023 event and drew strong interest from collectors. Auction proceeds will go toward supporting innovation initiatives at the Edge Institute. Huang's leather jacket has become a widely recognized symbol of his personal brand within the tech world.

Army thwarts infiltration bid, fires across LoC in J&K's Rajouri