India

CBI arrests DGCA official, firm director in bribery case

India in striking distance of 8% growth, says Shaktikanta Das

India is expected to achieve close to 8% economic growth, aided by recent reforms and increased investment. The resilience of the economy is attributed to strategies implemented over the past decade and strong domestic demand. Former RBI governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized the significance of the financial sector and external management in supporting growth. Further opportunities are anticipated in the coming years, particularly in AI and infrastructure financing.

Flydubai co-pilot allegedly tried to crash plane after hijack attempt failed

An Omani co-pilot attacked the captain of a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv. Following the assault, he attempted to crash the aircraft into the Saudi desert. Investigators are looking into whether the co-pilot cut the engines' fuel supply during this crisis. Emergency codes were transmitted to air traffic control indicating both a general emergency and a suspected hijacking.

'Avengers: Endgame' dethrones 'Avatar' as highest-grossing film of all time

Avengers: Endgame has reclaimed its position as the highest-grossing film following a re-release. The film surpassed Avatar's total box office earnings by a narrow margin after its Encore re-release. Despite a drop to seventh place domestically, additional earnings helped Endgame regain the crown. Marvel Studios expressed gratitude to fans for their support through social media messages. The success of Endgame coincides with anticipation for the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday.

Travis Kelce-backed Six Flags: How is its $20.8M solar project going green?

Travis Kelce-backed Six Flags is making a major sustainability move as Magic Mountain’s new solar parking project powers two parks. The 12.37 MW installation covers 4,315 spaces and is expected to generate 20.8 million kWh annually. The project also includes an 8 MWh battery and 109 EV charging stations. Kelce joined Six Flags as a 2026 brand ambassador, adding star power to the company’s latest green initiative.

Man bought Goodwill painting for $3; it later sold for $190,000

In a remarkable twist of fate, a former antiques dealer purchased a painting for just $3, suspecting it held greater value. Appraisers on Antiques Roadshow estimated its worth between $20,000 and $30,000, but the auction result astonished everyone, fetching $190,000. This stunning Flemish piece, dating back to around 1650, serves as a testament to the hidden gems that can be discovered in thrift shops and donation centers.

Next-generation GST aimed at boosting India's next phase of growth

Democracy in peril as voters illegally ousted: Ex-SC judge Nariman

Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman expressed concerns regarding the functioning of the Election Commission in India. He highlighted the issue of illegal removal of voters from electoral lists, especially in West Bengal. Nariman noted that 90 lakh voters were disenfranchised, with many not having access to justice. He emphasized the need for reform in the appointment process of election commissioners to ensure fairness.

US withdraws all bombers from UK's RAF Fairford after suspected terror plot

The United States has withdrawn all bombers from RAF Fairford following an investigation into a suspected terror plot. The withdrawal occurred shortly after several people were arrested in connection with the alleged attack plans. British authorities indicated potential Iranian involvement, while Tehran firmly denied these claims and summoned the British ambassador. Additionally, the US maintains military presence in the Middle East with several ships heading to the region.

UK farmers’ habitat work lifts corn buntings 346% and butterflies 183%

The resurgence of corn buntings and various wildlife species showcases the power of collaborative conservation work initiated by local farmers. Through the Martin Down and Allenford Farmer Clusters, projects were implemented to improve habitats throughout their farms. This endeavor has led to impressive increases in populations of butterflies and grey partridges over the past ten years. Continued financial investment and diligent monitoring are essential to uphold these successful biodiversity initiatives.

1 dead as Russian drones hit desi pharma plant in Ukraine

In Ukraine's Sumy region, six Russian drones attacked the Kusum Group's pharmaceutical plant, killing one engineer and injuring others. The main structure of the facility was largely destroyed during the targeted strike, which occurs amid a pattern of similar attacks. The company estimates damage from this incident could exceed $50 million, impacting operations significantly.

EAM Jaishankar says US has chosen to become 'lonelier power'

S Jaishankar stated that India aims to mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. India has recently proposed ideas addressing issues like grain and energy exports to both nations. Jaishankar emphasized America's changing global position and the implications of China's rise on international relations. India is also facing domestic repercussions due to the ongoing conflict, including commercial shipping disruptions.

25p/kg wheat MSP hike an 'insult': Samyukta Kisan Morcha

Farmer organisations represented by Samyukta Kisan Morcha rejected the government's announced minimum support prices for Rabi crops. They described the small increase for wheat as an insult rather than acceptable compensation. SKM called for a revision of MSPs and urged states to offer bonuses to farmers. Additionally, they highlighted the impact of rising diesel and input costs on farming.

'Look Out Circular' against parents of man who secretly took away child to US

The Supreme Court has indicated consequences for parents of a man who abducted his daughter to the US. This decision came during a case regarding child custody between NRI couples. The father has been ordered to return to India with the child within four weeks. If he fails to comply, his parents will face legal consequences. The court emphasizes the importance of the child's connection with her mother.

Oprah's $10M Houston project: 65 homes, center opens 8 years later

In 2005, Oprah Winfrey committed $10 million to help create Angel Lane in Houston for hurricane evacuees. The project eventually provided 65 furnished homes to displaced families. Eight years after the first residents moved in, the neighbourhood’s long-promised community center finally opened, offering space for education, workforce development and community services.

Faster registration, easier refunds: Reform rollout with GST 2.0

GST Council plans to unveil substantial reforms aimed at improving business processes and facilitating growth. The proposed changes involve streamlined registration, easier refunds, and a more efficient input tax credit system. Decriminalisation measures are also proposed to alleviate issues for businesses with minor offenses. A focus is on reducing discretionary practices and using technology to minimize litigation. These reforms seek to enhance operational efficiency for both small and large enterprises.

Mokama’s new rail bridge commissioned, boosting north-south Bihar train connectivity

SIR strikes at heart of Constitution: Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan condemned the extensive deletion of voter names from electoral rolls due to the special intensive revision process. He emphasized that such actions undermine the core principles of the Indian Constitution and disenfranchise millions of citizens. Bhuyan highlighted that the right to vote is essential for free and fair elections in India. He urged that no citizen should be denied the right to vote without due process.

3 million face masks could be used to build 1 km road, Australian study finds

Engineers at RMIT University have discovered a groundbreaking method to recycle single-use face masks by integrating them into road construction. By blending shredded masks with recycled concrete aggregate, the researchers aim to enhance road materials while tackling the problem of mask waste. Their findings suggest that approximately 3 million masks could be utilized in constructing a one-kilometre, two-lane road.

Meet Ankith Burki, seventh-grader who boosted water-from-air output by 117%

Ankith Burki, a seventh-grader from BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, created an atmospheric water generator for his project. He utilized low-frequency sound waves to improve the efficiency of water collection. Testing revealed a 117 percent increase in water production under specific sound conditions. His work earned him a finalist position in the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.