India

Matcha just got desi: Assam estate becomes first in India to sell Japanese-style green tea

Modi Inaugurates New Jodhpur Airport Terminal, Launches Modified UDAN Scheme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal at Jodhpur airport, designed to reflect Rajasthani architectural heritage while incorporating modern facilities. The terminal is expected to significantly improve tourism and air connectivity in the region. Modi also launched the Modified UDAN scheme from Jodhpur, a government initiative aimed at expanding regional air travel across India. The scheme targets the development of 100 aerodromes and includes support measures for airline operations. Together, these initiatives are intended to boost commerce and travel connectivity nationwide.

Global Daily Temperature Hit Record 16.80°C on June 30, Copernicus Data Shows

Global average surface air temperatures surged through June 2026, peaking at 16.80 degrees Celsius on June 30, according to data from the Copernicus ERA5 climate dataset. The figure marks a notable acceleration in global warming trends being tracked by European climate scientists. Copernicus, the EU's climate monitoring service, uses its ERA5 reanalysis system to record and analyze surface air temperature data worldwide. The spike comes amid a deadly heatwave affecting Europe, raising fresh concerns about the uneven pace of warming across different regions of the planet.

International Network Busted for Using Chat Groups to Drug and Rape Women

A coordinated law enforcement operation spanning seven countries has dismantled a global criminal network accused of sexually abusing women across nine nations. The network operated through online chat groups where members shared tactics on drugging victims and evading detection by authorities. Members also used these platforms to distribute videos and images of the abuse they committed. The investigation marks a significant cross-border effort to combat organized sexual violence facilitated through encrypted digital communication.

PM Modi on six-day tour of Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand from July 6

Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee launches inquiry into donation theft claims

The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has ordered an internal investigation following allegations of misappropriated donations at Badrinath Dham. Committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi confirmed the probe is underway and that staff members have been asked to provide explanations. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken if wrongdoing is proven. The development comes amid broader scrutiny of temple finances, as similar irregularities are separately being investigated at the Ayodhya temple.

Five Heat-Tolerant Houseplants That Thrive Through Hot Summers

Urban residents often find it difficult to keep houseplants healthy during intense summer heat. However, several plant varieties are well-suited to high temperatures and direct sunlight with little maintenance required. Five recommended options include Snake Plant, Aloe Vera, Bougainvillea, Portulaca, and Bay Laurel. Each of these plants is noted for its resilience and ability to flourish in sunny conditions. Together, they offer city dwellers a practical way to maintain greenery in their homes during the warmer months.

Nato set to declare Russia a 'long-term threat' amid Putin's fresh assault on Ukraine: Report

Govt issues 10-point rebuttal on E20 ethanol blending misinformation

The Indian government has strongly pushed back against social media claims spreading misinformation about its E20 ethanol blending programme. Extensive testing conducted prior to the rollout confirmed no significant adverse effects on vehicle engines or overall fuel safety. Authorities also dismissed allegations of excessive water consumption and environmental harm linked to the initiative. The government highlighted the programme's tangible benefits, including foreign exchange savings and increased payments to farmers. Officials further noted that ethanol blending is a scientifically validated approach already adopted by several countries worldwide.

EU Sanctions Six Individuals Linked to Navalny's Death and Chemical Weapons Use

The European Union has imposed sanctions on six individuals connected to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The sanctioned persons were found to be involved in the development of chemical weapons, specifically epibatidine. The substance was detected in samples taken from Navalny's body following his death. The move reflects the EU's continued efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the activist's killing.

Swedish Activists Win Right to Sue Government Over Climate Inaction

Activist groups in Sweden have been granted the legal standing to sue the government over its failure to adequately address climate change. The ruling marks a significant procedural victory, allowing the case to proceed through the courts. This development reflects a broader global trend of environmental groups turning to litigation as a tool to compel governments and corporations to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Courts around the world are increasingly becoming battlegrounds for climate accountability.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: Redevelopment of Rajasthan’s 151-year-old Gandhinagar Jaipur railway station nears completion

Global Ocean Surface Temperatures in June Exceed Record 2023-24 El Niño Highs

Global ocean surface temperatures have surged to alarming new levels in June, surpassing the extreme records set during the 2023-24 El Niño period. The average sea surface temperature across the world's tropical and temperate oceans is currently just under 21 degrees Celsius. This marks a significant benchmark, as the 2023-24 El Niño was already considered one of the most intense on record. Scientists and climate researchers are closely monitoring the trend, as persistently elevated ocean temperatures have wide-ranging consequences for weather patterns, marine ecosystems, and global climate stability.

India to challenge US tariffs, disputes forced labour findings as legally flawed

India plans to formally contest proposed US tariffs on its exports next week, targeting findings made by the US Trade Representative. Indian officials and industry bodies will present counter-arguments disputing the alleged forced labour claims. They argue that India has a strong legal framework and adequate compliance systems in place. The Indian side also contends that imposing such tariffs would negatively impact both Indian exporters and American businesses and consumers.

New Amazon Spider Species Mimics Fungus So Well It Fooled Scientists

Scientists have discovered a new spider species, Taczanowskia waska, in Ecuador's Amazon rainforest. The spider closely resembles a fungus that is known to prey on spiders, making its mimicry a remarkable survival adaptation. Its pale coloring, fungus-like appendages, and motionless behavior allow it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The species was so convincing that even experienced researchers initially mistook it for a fungus. The discovery, aided by citizen science, highlights the complex survival strategies and rich biodiversity found in rainforest ecosystems.

Prince William Joins Kelce Brothers on New Heights Podcast in Surprise Appearance

Prince William made an unexpected appearance on the New Heights podcast, hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce. The interview featured a notable introduction for the royal guest and drew significant public attention. The episode comes amid widespread interest in Travis Kelce's relationship with Taylor Swift, the two reportedly being engaged. NFL sportscaster Erin Andrews, credited with playing a role in bringing the couple together, was also said to have attended their wedding rehearsal dinner.

Peter Thiel Accuses Pope Leo XIV of Aiding China Through AI Regulation Push

Billionaire and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel has renewed his attacks on the Vatican, this time targeting Pope Leo XIV over his support for artificial intelligence regulation. Speaking at the Aspen Ideas Festival, Thiel argued that AI rules would slow US technological development while giving China a competitive advantage. He went as far as claiming the Pope is effectively 'working for the Chinese Communists.' This is not the first time Thiel has clashed with the Vatican — he previously delivered controversial lectures in Rome touching on the theme of the Antichrist.

Meta in Talks With Indian Government Over Username Feature Misuse Concerns

Meta officials have held discussions with the Indian central government regarding a username feature on its platforms. The government has raised concerns that the feature could be exploited by cybercriminals for malicious purposes. Authorities fear it may enable impersonation, identity spoofing, and phishing attacks. The talks reflect India's growing scrutiny of social media features that could facilitate online scams and fraud.

Bruins veteran's no-trade clause blocked Darnell Nurse deal before Sharks trade

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse was at the center of broader trade discussions this NHL offseason before ultimately being dealt to the San Jose Sharks. Reports indicate the Oilers had engaged in negotiations with the Boston Bruins as a potential destination for Nurse. However, those talks reportedly fell through when an unnamed Bruins veteran invoked a no-trade clause in his contract, blocking the deal. The development reveals that Nurse's trade situation was more complex than initially known, with multiple teams involved before the Sharks landing him.

Ben Stokes Retires from ODI Cricket After 15-Year England Career

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The announcement came via an official statement, after which Stokes symbolically took one final wicket for England. Reflecting on his career, Stokes described his journey as spanning the 'highest highs to lowest lows' over a 'mad 15 years'. The retirement marks the end of a significant era for English cricket, with Stokes having been one of the team's most influential players.