India

Study finds microplastics in 92% of deep-sea animals, Indian Ocean worst hit

A new study has revealed that microplastics have penetrated even the most remote deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems around the world. Researchers found microplastic contamination in 92% of the deep-sea animals they examined. Polystyrene was identified as the most common type of plastic polymer detected in the samples. The study noted that an animal's feeding behavior played a role in how much microplastic accumulated in its body. Deep-sea creatures from the Indian Ocean were found to carry significantly higher concentrations of microplastics compared to those from the Pacific Ocean.

Has Trump's Pakistan reset failed? Why Islamabad still leans towards China

President Murmu to Visit Moldova, North Macedonia and Romania Starting July 19

Indian President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to visit three European nations — Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania — beginning July 19. The trip marks an official diplomatic outreach to these countries. No further details about the duration, agenda, or bilateral discussions were available in the provided source text.

India Launches World's Longest Hydrogen Train on Jind-Sonipat Route

India has become one of the few countries in the world to operate a hydrogen-powered train, marking a significant milestone in its rail history. The Jind-Sonipat route was selected for the inaugural service due to its relatively low traffic volume and suitable existing infrastructure. The 10-coach train holds the distinction of being the longest hydrogen-powered train currently operating anywhere in the world. It runs on indigenously developed technology powered by a fuel-cell propulsion system. Authorities plan to eventually extend the service to connect with New Delhi.

Property sale does not void tenant rights or rental agreements in India

In India, a tenant's rental agreement remains legally valid even after the property is sold to a new owner. The incoming landlord is obligated to honour the terms established under the original rental contract. Any increase in rent is permissible only if an escalation clause was already included in the agreement. Tenants who continue paying rent to the previous landlord after a sale still retain legal protection. Additionally, tenants' rights to reclaim their security deposit are preserved irrespective of the change in ownership.

237 kg Cannabis Worth Rs 1.18 Crore Seized from Truck Near Hyderabad

Hyderabad police seized 237 kg of cannabis worth approximately Rs 1.18 crore near the city following a targeted operation. Acting on credible intelligence, officers intercepted a truck registered in Maharashtra and discovered the contraband hidden inside the vehicle's cabin. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the case. The seizure highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to curb drug trafficking in the region.

Meta sued by 26 ex-employees alleging AI unfairly targeted them in layoffs

Meta is facing a lawsuit filed by 26 former employees who claim artificial intelligence was used to determine layoff selections during the company's recent round of 8,000 job cuts. The plaintiffs allege that the AI systems disproportionately targeted workers who were on medical or parental leave at the time. They argue this process violated both federal and state anti-discrimination laws. Meta has denied the allegations, maintaining that all workforce decisions were made by people, not AI. The lawsuit is seeking to reinstate the employees in their roles for the duration of the arbitration process.

How a 6th-Century Roman Official Saved Ancient Knowledge Through Monasticism

During the turmoil of sixth-century Italy, widespread warfare posed a severe threat to ancient written knowledge. Roman official Cassiodorus responded by founding the Vivarium monastery as a dedicated center for preserving texts. Monks at the monastery were tasked with copying and translating manuscripts, safeguarding both religious and secular writings. This deliberate effort ensured that invaluable ancient knowledge survived centuries of political and social instability.

Ex-cricketer confident Rohit can end ODI career on a high note

Former cricketer Patel has expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma ahead of what could be his final ODI appearance on Sunday. Patel noted that Rohit has a strong track record of bouncing back after poor form throughout his career. He expects the Indian opener to deliver a memorable performance if the upcoming match marks his ODI farewell. Patel's comments reflect widespread anticipation around Rohit's potential final outing in the 50-over format.

RBI Simplifies Investment Rules for NRIs to Streamline Fund Flow

The Reserve Bank of India has revised its investment norms for Non-Resident Indians, easing the process of managing funds from abroad. Under the updated framework, NRIs can now use a single account for investment, redemption, and repatriation of funds. The account can be funded through inward remittances, reducing the complexity of managing multiple accounts. The move is aimed at making it more convenient for the diaspora to invest in India. Analysts expect the simplified rules to encourage greater NRI participation in the Indian economy.

Russian recruits survive just 20-30 minutes on Ukraine frontlines: CIA chief explains why

Amazon to enforce AI-driven warehouse staffing decisions by 2026

Amazon is piloting software designed to autonomously determine staffing levels at its warehouses, reducing reliance on human managers. However, internal documents and Slack communications obtained by Business Insider reveal that managers have been overriding, disabling, and circumventing the algorithm. Critics within the company argue the software misreads actual floor conditions and recommends workforce cuts that are impractical. Amazon plans to tighten enforcement of the AI system by 2026, significantly restricting how much managers can deviate from its recommendations.

Maruti Suzuki to appeal court order mandating Grand Vitara replacement over E20 dispute

Maruti Suzuki has decided to challenge a consumer court ruling that directed the company to replace a Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid with a new E20-compatible vehicle. The case arose after the customer experienced repeated technical problems following the wider availability of E20 petrol in the market. Maruti Suzuki contests the court's findings, maintaining that the vehicle in question was already compatible with E20 fuel. The automaker attributes the issues to fuel contamination rather than any fault with the car itself. The company intends to file an appeal against the order before a higher judicial forum.

Taco Bell at centre of US Cyclospora outbreak probe; Taylor Farms lettuce under scanner

Trump to attend FIFA World Cup Final; Argentina's Milei will not attend

US President Donald Trump is confirmed to attend the FIFA World Cup final, according to the White House. In contrast, Argentine President Javier Milei has decided to skip the event. The White House made the announcement regarding Trump's attendance plans. No further details about the venue or date were provided in the available information.

Gujarat ATS Arrests 5 Jaish-e-Mohammed Operatives, Thwarts Time Bomb Plot

Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested five members linked to the banned terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. The operation successfully foiled a planned attack involving a time bomb. Investigators revealed that at least one of the detained operatives had advanced expertise in explosives. This individual was reportedly close to completing the assembly of a functional time bomb at the time of arrest.

AI Enabling Terror Groups to Target Children, Warns Australian Minister

Australian Minister Tony Burke has warned that artificial intelligence is being exploited by terrorist groups to enhance their operations and target children. Speaking to NDTV, Burke stated that the conventional structure of terrorism, including organised cells and identifiable networks, is being fundamentally disrupted. He noted that clear ideological lines that once defined terror groups are also breaking down due to AI-driven changes. The minister's remarks highlight growing international concern over the intersection of emerging technology and extremist activity.

Dutch cities use grass-filled paving blocks to absorb rainwater and keep areas cooler

How IKEA Founder Ingvar Kamprad Lived Frugally Despite Billionaire Status

IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad was widely known for his extreme frugality despite amassing a vast fortune. He routinely wore second-hand clothes, travelled economy class, and reused tea bags rather than indulging in luxury. Kamprad also dined at IKEA's own cafeterias and was reported to pocket free condiment packets, embodying a no-waste lifestyle. His modest habits were rooted in his upbringing in rural southern Sweden. This personal philosophy of thrift went on to deeply influence IKEA's broader company culture and internal guidelines.

Swedish Colony Nya Sverige's Overlooked Role in Shaping Early American Culture

Philadelphia's history extends beyond its founding fathers to include the short-lived Swedish colony of Nya Sverige. The settlement existed for just seventeen years but left a lasting mark on American civilization. Swedish settlers are credited with pioneering the design of the log cabin, which transformed early American architecture. They also introduced Lutheran Christianity to the region and played a role in sparking early colonial rebellions. Despite its brief existence, Nya Sverige's contributions are now being recognized as foundational to American identity.