India

How Singapore Eliminated Slums and Housed 80% of Residents in Six Decades

Singapore undertook a sweeping urban transformation over roughly six decades, successfully eradicating slums within a single generation. Today, more than 80% of the country's residents live in government-built housing, with the majority owning their units. The achievement was driven by large-scale construction projects and the development of fully planned residential towns. Families displaced during redevelopment were provided with alternative housing and additional support. Singapore's public housing model is now widely regarded as a reference point for cities worldwide grappling with housing shortages.

Supreme Court Asks Centre Why Pregnant IPS Probationers Are Barred From Training

The Supreme Court has questioned the central government over its policy of imposing a blanket ban on pregnant IPS officers during their probation training period. The court sought an official response from the Centre on whether such officers should be allowed to resume training if declared medically fit. The case highlights concerns over discriminatory treatment of women officers at an early stage of their careers. The court's intervention signals judicial scrutiny of service rules that may conflict with gender equality principles.

Dinesh Karthik slams team management over Harshit Rana promotion during collapse

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik publicly criticised the team management's batting order decision during India's T20I match against England. Harshit Rana, a lower-order batter, was sent in ahead of the more experienced Shivam Dube during a batting collapse. The move backfired as India went on to suffer their heaviest T20I defeat by runs against England. Indian captain described the team's overall performance as atrocious. The loss has put India 2-0 down in the ongoing series against England.

Kerala hits pause on tunnel project, day after 3 die in Wayanad

Wayanad Landslide Kills Three Migrant Workers From Central Indian States

A deadly landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, has claimed the lives of three people confirmed to be migrant workers. The victims hailed from the central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. The incident has raised concerns beyond its immediate impact as a natural disaster. The deaths of migrant laborers highlight the vulnerability of workers who travel far from home for employment in disaster-prone regions.

Gambhir Revisits 'Transition' Narrative After India's Four Straight T20I Defeats

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has again invoked the concept of a 'reset' and transition to explain the national team's recent poor run in T20 internationals. The team has lost four consecutive matches in the new T20I cycle following their World Cup victory. Gambhir's repeated use of this narrative has drawn scrutiny from observers questioning the team's strategic direction. The recurring explanation raises concerns about whether India has a clear plan in the post-World Cup era.

‘Constitution does not ban moral instruction’: High Court rejects plea against ‘Gayatri Mantra’ in Chhattisgarh schools

Archer warns India as England seize 2-1 T20I series lead with 125-run win

England defeated India by 125 runs in the third T20I, taking a 2-1 lead in the ongoing series. Jofra Archer described English conditions as a return to 'normal cricket', noting that bowlers enjoy a greater margin for error compared to IPL pitches. Archer dismissed young Indian opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, rekindling their rivalry from the IPL. India are yet to register a win in the series and will look to bounce back in the remaining matches.

India Pushes Back as US Advances Section 301 Probe Eyeing 12.5% Tariffs

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has accelerated one of its two trade investigations into India, raising concerns about potential new duties. The probe is linked to forced labour practices and proposes a 12.5% tariff on Indian goods. Trade experts and policymakers warn that the US may replace the current 10% additional tariff with the higher proposed rate once the July 24 deadline expires. India has taken a firm stance in response to the investigation, signalling resistance to the proposed measures.

Shiv Sena Corporator Denies Assaulting Doctor, Blames Camera Angle for Viral Footage

Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre has denied physically assaulting a female doctor at a civic hospital following a widely circulated video of the altercation. Mhatre claimed he merely tapped the doctor's hand and described her as being like a daughter to him. He attributed the incident to systemic shortcomings within the hospital. A case has since been registered against Mhatre and five other individuals in connection with the incident.

Puri dismisses E25 fuel concerns; Gadkari champions hydrogen vehicles

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has downplayed concerns surrounding the rollout of E25 ethanol-blended fuel, stating that automakers have reported no compatibility issues with existing ethanol blends. He confirmed that testing for E25 fuel is still in progress and that consultations with stakeholders will be conducted before wider implementation. Separately, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari is pushing for a multi-fuel future, with a strong emphasis on hydrogen-powered vehicles. Pilot projects for hydrogen-run trucks and buses in public transport are already underway. Together, the two ministers signal India's broader push toward cleaner and diversified fuel alternatives.

'Bengal becoming UP 2.0': Mahua Moitra reacts after Baruipur rape-murder accused shot dead

Anthropic Extends Free Claude 5 Access for Subscribers Until July 2026

Anthropic has extended its promotional offer for Claude 5, allowing eligible subscribers to use the model at no additional cost until July 12, 2026. The offer covers users on Pro, Max, Team, and select Enterprise plans. Subscribers can access Claude 5 across web and mobile platforms during this period. Once the promotion concludes, users will be able to continue accessing Claude 5 through usage credits.

Residents of PoK Increasingly Seek Indian Intervention Amid Pakistan Discontent

Growing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has led many residents to openly question the region's so-called 'Azad' or free status. Decades of political and economic marginalisation under Pakistani administration have fuelled deep resentment among the local population. Some voices in the region have begun calling for Indian intervention, signalling a significant shift in sentiment. Analysts warn, however, that Pakistan could exploit this unrest strategically to place India in a diplomatically difficult position.

Chinese Men in Germany Charged Over Telegram Group Sharing Rape Videos

German prosecutors have charged a group of Chinese men for using Telegram to share videos of sexual assaults and exchange tips on drugging victims. The case was handled by Frankfurt authorities, with chief prosecutor Dominik Mies leading the investigation. Mies described the suspects as showing extreme ruthlessness and coldly objectifying their victims. The group was accused of meticulously planning their crimes, pointing to a premeditated and organized pattern of abuse.

Germany's Diehl Defence develops IRIS-T SLX to reduce reliance on US Patriot system

German defense firm Diehl Defence is developing an enhanced, longer-range variant of its IRIS-T air defense system, known as the IRIS-T SLX. The upgrade aims to reduce Europe's dependence on US Patriot missile interceptors, which are often in limited supply. Rising global demand for air defense capabilities, driven by recent armed conflicts, has accelerated the urgency behind the project. The IRIS-T SLX is designed to offer improved performance and seamless integration with existing defense infrastructure. The development marks a significant step toward greater European strategic defense autonomy.

Maharashtra Family of Four Electrocuted in Chain Rescue Attempt During Rain

A couple and their two children were electrocuted in Maharashtra while attempting to save one another after coming into contact with a live wire. The tragedy unfolded during a rain event, with each family member reportedly getting shocked while trying to rescue the previous victim. Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are examining how the wire outside the residence became electrified and whether any negligence contributed to the accident.

Bengaluru MBA Graduate Arrested for Fake Currency After Hiding in Box Bed

Bengaluru police arrested an MBA graduate named Rudresh in connection with a fake currency case. Officers from Huliyaru Police station visited his residence to carry out the arrest. Upon arrival, the team initially faced resistance from Rudresh's parents, who tried to obstruct the operation. Rudresh attempted to evade arrest by concealing himself inside a box bed at his home. He was eventually found and taken into custody by the police.

Housing Sales Drop 6% Across 7 Major Indian Cities Amid Affordability Concerns

Housing sales have declined 6% across seven major Indian cities, raising concerns about affordability in the residential property market. Middle-class households, including those earning around Rs 1 lakh per month, are finding it increasingly difficult to purchase homes in urban areas. Buyers in this income bracket are often forced to stretch their finances significantly to afford urban properties. The data points to a growing gap between urban home prices and the purchasing power of middle-income earners in India.

Mumbai's Tulsi Lake Overflows Following Heavy Rainfall in the Region

Tulsi Lake, one of Mumbai's seven drinking water supply reservoirs, has begun overflowing following heavy rainfall. The lake holds the distinction of being the smallest among the seven lakes that collectively supply water to India's financial capital. It is one of only two reservoirs situated within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) limits. The overflow marks a significant moment in the city's water supply cycle, typically signaling progress toward meeting Mumbai's annual water needs.