India

India approves MR-SAM, V-SHORADS and Akash Tarang to strengthen air defence

India's Defence Acquisition Council has approved three new air defence systems to upgrade the country's aerial protection capabilities. The systems — MR-SAM, V-SHORADS, and the Akash Tarang Anti-UAV Electronic Warfare System — are designed to counter threats from drones, missiles, and aircraft. Together, they will form key components of Sudarshan Chakra, a planned nationwide integrated air defence network. The acquisitions draw on operational lessons from Operation Sindoor, reflecting India's push to modernise its defence infrastructure.

Badrinath Temple Orders Probe Into Donation Theft Allegations

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has ordered an investigation into allegations of donation theft at the Badrinath temple. BKTC President Hemant Dwivedi confirmed that the committee took the claims seriously after they began circulating on social media. The development comes shortly after similar donation theft allegations surfaced at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Dwivedi stated that the probe has been initiated to examine the veracity of the allegations.

India allows four Chinese firms to bid on power projects amid Congress criticism

India has granted four Chinese power equipment manufacturers with local production facilities permission to participate in critical government power tenders. The two-year relaxation was approved following a request from the power ministry. The decision is intended to speed up power network expansion and support renewable energy integration. However, the move has triggered strong opposition from the Congress party, which cited unresolved border disputes and a widening trade deficit with China as key concerns.

India Designates 23 Pakistan-Based Individuals as Terrorists Under UAPA

The Indian government has designated 23 Pakistan-based individuals as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967. The list includes members of militant outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, two groups long accused of orchestrating attacks against India. Under UAPA, the central government holds the authority to designate an individual as a terrorist if it has reason to believe they are involved in terrorist activities. The move reflects India's continued efforts to formally identify and restrict individuals linked to cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan.

Neil the 1-tonne elephant seal turns Tasmania troublemaker into viral star

A 1,000 kg elephant seal named Neil has gained widespread social media attention along Australia's southern coast. The animal has earned a 'troublemaker' reputation for blocking roads and causing property damage in the region. Wildlife experts note that Neil's disruptive behaviour is typical for a seal of his age, as it reflects natural practice for mating rituals. Despite his growing online fame, authorities are urging the public to keep a safe distance from the animal. Officials warn that the greater danger in these encounters comes from humans approaching Neil, not the other way around.

Pune murder case: Victim's engagement video resurfaces as fiancée faces conspiracy charges

A video of Pune realtor Ketan Agarwal speaking at his own engagement party has resurfaced as investigators probe his death as a planned murder. Police allege his fiancée Siya Goyal and her suspected lover Chetan Chaudhary conspired to kill him. Authorities claim the two even rehearsed the act at the location where Agarwal was later killed. Both accused have refused to undergo polygraph tests and have been remanded to judicial custody.

India designates 23 Pakistan-based JeM and LeT operatives as terrorists under UAPA

The Indian government has formally designated 23 Pakistan-based individuals as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. All 23 are linked to proscribed terror organisations, primarily Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The designation grants authorities enhanced powers to act against the operatives' networks and freeze their assets. Among those listed is Masood Ilyas Kashmiri, a senior JeM figure accused of recruiting and training militants and facilitating attacks, including the Sunjwan incident. The move signals India's continued push to formally identify and counter Pakistan-based terror infrastructure.

Iran holds state funeral for Khamenei alongside infant granddaughter killed in Israeli strike

Iran conducted funeral ceremonies in Tehran for late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, whose coffin was placed beside that of his 14-month-old granddaughter. The infant was among family members killed in an Israeli airstrike, with a son-in-law and daughter also among those honored. Thousands of mourners gathered in the capital for prayers, with traditional funeral rites observed throughout. The procession is expected to continue over several days across multiple locations, including neighboring Iraq.

Mumbai Under Red Alert as IMD Warns of Extremely Heavy Rainfall

Mumbai has been placed on a red alert following a warning from the weather agency about extremely heavy rainfall expected in the city. Several parts of the metropolis recorded over 100 mm of rain in the past 24 hours. Despite the intense downpour, public transport across the city continues to operate normally. Civic officials confirmed that essential services remain functional as authorities monitor the situation closely.

Trump Touts Stock Market Gains and Tax Cuts as Signs of Economic Boom

US President Donald Trump declared the American economy is performing strongly, pointing to record stock market levels, rising exports, and increased investment as evidence. He credited his administration's tax cuts and trade policies for driving these gains. Trump claimed these measures have boosted domestic manufacturing and put more money in the hands of American citizens. The president described the current period as the beginning of a 'Golden Age' of prosperity and opportunity for the nation.

2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 Set; Germany and Netherlands Knocked Out

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has advanced to the Round of 16 stage, with 16 teams securing their spots in the knockout phase. Notable casualties include Germany and the Netherlands, both of whom have been eliminated from the tournament. Defending champions Argentina managed to qualify despite a difficult run, joining 15 other nations in the last-16 lineup. High-profile matchups await fans, including Mexico versus England and a blockbuster Iberian derby between Portugal and Spain.

Wangchuk's Health Deteriorates on Day 7 of Hunger Strike Over NEET Row

Climate activist and innovator Sonam Wangchuk entered the seventh day of his hunger strike, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over NEET irregularities. His health has visibly worsened, with a loss of over 5 kilograms and declining blood pressure and sugar levels. The protest is being held at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, drawing attention from political and civil society figures. Abhijeet Dipke of the Cockroach Janata Party called on the government to respond and appealed for greater public solidarity with Wangchuk. The strike has steadily gained momentum, with support growing across various sections of society.

Centre Issues 10-Point Fact-Check Debunking Myths About E20 Ethanol Petrol

India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has released a 10-point clarification addressing widespread misconceptions about E20 petrol, a fuel blend containing up to 20% ethanol. The government stated that the programme is backed by scientific research, international precedents, and established regulatory safeguards. Common myths addressed reportedly include fears about engine damage and excessive water consumption linked to ethanol production. The clarification aims to build public confidence in the E20 initiative, which forms a key part of India's broader clean energy and fuel diversification strategy.

Gold Rate Today, July 4: Check 18, 22 and 24 carat gold prices in Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and other cities

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas defends America as top destination for risk-takers

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas, an Indian-origin founder, appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience to share his views on opportunity in the United States. He argued that America remains unique in its willingness to take bold, unconventional ideas seriously rather than dismiss them. Srinivas, who grew up lower-middle-class in India, credited the country's risk-embracing culture as the key reason it continues to lead in innovation. He maintained that immigrants and newcomers can still build companies capable of competing with the largest technology firms in the world.

Ashwin praises Cabo Verde's fearless FIFA World Cup debut run

Indian cricket star Ravichandran Ashwin publicly commended Cabo Verde on their impressive debut at the FIFA World Cup. The African nation, appearing at the tournament for the first time, drew matches against Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Their campaign came to an end with a narrow 3-2 extra-time defeat against reigning champions Argentina. Despite the loss, Cabo Verde's tenacious and fearless style of play earned widespread admiration from fans and pundits alike. Ashwin noted that their spirited performances have significantly raised the small nation's profile on the global football stage.

BITS Pilani grad earning Rs 2.2 cr says real success is breaking family trauma cycle

A 39-year-old professional earning over Rs 2.2 crore annually shared his life story in a viral Reddit post, reflecting on how a troubled childhood shaped his outlook on success. Growing up in a difficult household, he turned to education as a way out, eventually graduating from BITS Pilani and building a global career. Despite his high income, he does not equate wealth with success, but instead values the financial independence it has brought him. He considers his greatest achievement to be raising his children in a stable, peaceful environment — something he never had himself. His story resonates as an example of breaking generational cycles through education and personal determination.

Mumbai's First Heavy Rains Bring Flooding, Deaths and Commuter Chaos

Mumbai received its first heavy monsoon rainfall this season, once again revealing gaps in civic preparedness. Two fatalities were reported, including a boy killed by a falling tree and a man who drowned after falling into an uncovered manhole. Commuters across the city faced significant disruptions as roads flooded and train services were delayed. Residents took to social media to express frustration, sharing images and videos of waterlogged streets. The incidents have reignited concerns about the city's persistent inability to manage recurring monsoon challenges.

Israel Denies Report of Plot to Assassinate Iranian Nuclear Negotiators

Israel has rejected as fake news a report alleging it was planning to kill Iranian nuclear negotiators. The denial comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear programme. Israel's closest ally, the United States, has been involved in peace talks with Iran. US President Donald Trump has recently been publicly critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, partly over concerns that Israel's war with Hezbollah in Lebanon could jeopardise those negotiations.

Centre names 23 Jaish, Lashkar operatives as terrorists, cites J-K attack links