India

NATO Raises Defence Spending Target to 5% of GDP at Ankara Summit

NATO leaders have agreed on a new defence spending benchmark of 5% of GDP for all member nations, announced at the alliance's summit in Ankara. This marks a significant increase from the longstanding 2% of GDP target that NATO had previously set. The move reflects growing concerns about security and the need for stronger collective defence capabilities. Currently, only two NATO member countries already meet this ambitious new spending threshold.

Assam Finance Minister Presents Budget Focused on Long-Term Development Goals

Assam Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah presented the state budget in the Assembly on Friday. He emphasized that the budget goes beyond routine annual expenditure to chart a long-term development trajectory. Mallabaruah noted that the current fiscal plan builds upon foundational work carried out over the past decade. The budget reflects the state government's intent to sustain and accelerate its development agenda going forward.

Aaftab Poonawala to sit MA exams in Tihar; Shraddha case hearing pushed to July 21

A Delhi court has postponed proceedings in the Shraddha Walkar murder case after accused Aaftab Poonawala requested time to appear for his MA Sociology final examinations. The exams are scheduled to be conducted inside Tihar Jail between July 11 and July 20. The court granted his plea and cancelled the hearing that had been set for July 20. As a result, the recording of prosecution evidence will now commence from July 21.

Trump Says Iran Talks Continue but Ceasefire Has Ended

US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday stating that Washington has agreed to continue peace negotiations with Iran at Tehran's request. However, Trump made clear that the existing ceasefire is no longer in effect, even as diplomatic talks proceed. The announcement sent a mixed signal about the current state of US-Iran relations. Trump's statement suggests a decoupling of the ceasefire arrangement from the broader negotiation process.

Shinde alleges donation irregularities at Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has accused the previous government of overlooking alleged financial irregularities in donations at Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple. Shinde questioned why no action was taken during the prior regime's tenure regarding the alleged misappropriation. Former Siddhivinayak Trust chairman Aadesh Bandekar denied the allegations and called for an impartial investigation into the matter. The controversy comes amid a broader national debate on temple donation mismanagement, after an SIT probe uncovered embezzlement in Ram Temple donation counting in Ayodhya in June, resulting in arrests.

'Iran wants talks but ceasefire over,' says Trump as Tehran begins restoring N-plant ops

Tamil Nadu Govt Gives Jobs to 31 Karur Tragedy Victims' Kin Across 5 Districts

The Tamil Nadu government has provided employment to 31 beneficiaries from families affected by a tragedy in Karur and surrounding regions. The jobs were distributed across five districts: Karur, Erode, Dindigul, Tiruppur, and Salem. Appointments were made in multiple government departments, including Education, Revenue, Rural Development, and Police. The move is seen as a relief measure to support the bereaved families through financial stability.

Jorge Jesus appointed Portugal coach, backs Ronaldo after World Cup exit

Portugal have named Jorge Jesus as their new head coach following the team's elimination from the World Cup, replacing Roberto Martinez. The 71-year-old, who previously managed Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi club Al Nassr, was quick to defend the veteran forward amid ongoing criticism. Jesus described Ronaldo as 'a symbol of Portuguese football' and insisted he would never be a disruptive presence in the squad. The newly appointed coach now faces the task of rebuilding the national side ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Telegram Submits Response to Indian Government Over Username Feature

Messaging platform Telegram has submitted a reply to the Indian government regarding its username feature, following a similar response previously made by WhatsApp. The username feature allows users on messaging platforms to communicate with one another without revealing their personal phone numbers. The Indian government had sought explanations from these platforms over the feature, raising concerns likely related to privacy and accountability. Telegram's response comes as part of broader regulatory scrutiny of major messaging apps operating in India.

Assam Government Moves to Curb Polygamy, Congress Backs Existing Laws

The Assam government has proposed new measures to crack down on polygamy in the state. As part of the initiative, authorities plan to amend the Assam Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1964. The proposed amendment would allow disciplinary action to be taken against government employees found practising polygamy. The Congress party, however, has argued that existing laws are sufficient to address the issue and no new measures are needed.

Assam Budget Sparks Row Between Ruling Party and Opposition

The Assam state budget has triggered a sharp political clash between the ruling party and opposition legislators. Raijor Dal MLA Akhil Gogoi criticized the budget, alleging it relies heavily on borrowings and centrally funded schemes. The ruling side defended the budget, describing it as a visionary roadmap for the state's development. Opposition members countered by labeling it a copy-paste exercise lacking original fiscal planning. The dispute highlights deepening divisions over the state government's financial priorities and spending strategy.

Cuisinart gas grill recalled after 37 glass-shattering incidents across the US

Conair has issued a recall for the Cuisinart Propel+ Four Burner 3-in-1 Gas Grill due to a defective pizza oven glass window that can shatter. A total of 37 shattering incidents were reported in the United States, along with one fire incident, raising concerns about laceration risks to consumers. The grill was available at major retailers Lowe's and Walmart between December 2024 and May 2026. Affected customers are required to remove the glass panel and submit photos as proof to qualify for a refund.

Why Wedding Rings Go on the Fourth Finger: History and Symbolism

The tradition of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger dates back to ancient beliefs about a vein running directly from that finger to the heart. Practical considerations also played a role, as the finger offered a visible and suitable placement for a ring. Religious and cultural practices across various societies further reinforced the custom over centuries. The gesture came to symbolize eternal love, commitment, and devotion between partners. Today, the tradition remains widely observed worldwide as a mark of belonging and union.

‘She was visibly distressed’: Parents cite new CCTV footage, question chargesheet in Jaipur school girl’s death

China halts helium exports as Iran war threatens global chip supply

Jim Irsay's memorabilia collection raises over $105M at auction for charity

The personal collection of late NFL owner Jim Irsay sold for more than $105 million at auction. A guitar belonging to Pink Floyd's David Gilmour was the top-selling item, fetching $14.55 million. Other notable lots included tickets linked to Abraham Lincoln's assassination and the original Alcoholics Anonymous manuscript, which sold for $2.4 million. The auction drew significant interest due to the historical importance of many items on offer. Proceeds from the sale will be directed toward charitable foundations that Irsay supported during his lifetime.

Gurugram Businessman's House Shot At While Attacker Live-Streamed Attack Abroad

A local businessman's residence in Gurugram came under fire in a targeted attack by a group of assailants. One of the attackers was simultaneously live-streaming the assault on his mobile phone to an overseas handler, according to sources. The incident highlights a growing trend of gang operatives broadcasting crimes in real time to handlers based outside India. Authorities are investigating the attack, with the live-streaming detail pointing to a coordinated criminal network with international links.

Delhi HC upholds Rajpal Yadav's imprisonment in Rs 9 crore cheque bounce cases

The Delhi High Court has upheld actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in several cheque dishonour cases linked to a Rs 9 crore debt. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma dismissed 21 petitions filed by Yadav and his wife Radha Rajpal Yadav. The court criticised the couple for repeatedly failing to honour their financial obligations. The actor's reported remark that he would prefer jail over repayment was also noted unfavourably by the bench. The high court confirmed the Sessions Court's earlier judgment and rejected all related applications.

Adani Group and CEE-USA Hold RSI India 2026 Closing Ceremony at IISc Bengaluru

Adani Group and CEE-USA jointly hosted the valedictory ceremony for RSI India 2026 at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a prestigious academic initiative that brings together talented students for an intensive research experience. The closing ceremony marked the conclusion of the program's latest edition. A student named Tanishq was among the participants who shared their experiences at the event. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of students who took part in this competitive scientific program.

Kerala Student Dies in Uzbekistan; Family Alleges Forced Conversion and Torture

A Kerala student has died in Uzbekistan under circumstances that the victim's family claims involved forced religious conversion and torture. The student's parents approached the Alappuzha District Police Chief, following which an FIR was registered at Haripad police station on Wednesday. Authorities are treating the matter as a formal investigation. A postmortem examination was conducted at Alappuzha Medical College to help determine the cause of death.