India
Delhi to deny fuel to vehicles lacking valid pollution certificate from Nov 1
Delhi is set to enforce a strict new rule starting November 1 requiring motorists to hold a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate to purchase fuel. Vehicles without the certificate will be denied petrol, diesel, or CNG at fuel stations. The measure is aimed at curbing the severe air pollution that typically worsens in the capital during winter months. The policy targets non-compliant vehicle owners as part of broader seasonal efforts to improve Delhi's air quality.

Court Rules Jet Airways Staff Must Receive Full PF and Pension Dues
A court has ruled that former Jet Airways employees are entitled to receive their full provident fund, gratuity, and pension dues. The decision marks a setback for SBI and seven other lenders who had staked a claim on these funds. The banks had argued that these employee dues should be treated as part of the liquidation estate under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. The ruling effectively prioritizes employee rights over lender claims in the distribution of Jet Airways' remaining assets.

Nayara Slashes Fuel Prices, But Why State-Run Oil Firms Are Holding Back
So far, there has been no indication from IOCL, BPCL or HPCL that they are preparing to reduce retail fuel prices.

US Lifts Sanctions on Four Indian Companies Linked to Russia Trade
The United States has removed four Indian firms from its sanctions list, which had been imposed over trade connections with Russia. Among those previously sanctioned was Galaxy Bearings Ltd, which was blacklisted in October 2024. The company had been accused of exporting high-priority dual-use equipment, including roller bearings and roller assemblies, to Russian entities. Dual-use goods are items that can serve both civilian and military purposes, making their export to Russia a concern for Western authorities. The removal of these firms from the sanctions list marks a notable shift in the US approach toward Indian companies caught in the crossfire of Russia-related trade restrictions.

Pujara doubts Sooryavanshi will get game time in England T20I series
Former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has weighed in on the prospects of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the upcoming T20I series against England. Pujara suggested that the teenage prodigy is unlikely to feature on the field during the series. He advised Sooryavanshi to keep a calm head amid the considerable hype surrounding his inclusion. According to Pujara, the youngster may only get a chance to bat if the more experienced batsmen in the lineup perform well.
IndiGo Launches Budget 'Lite' Fare for Cabin-Baggage-Only Travelers
IndiGo has introduced a new fare category called 'IndiGo Lite' aimed at passengers who travel with only cabin baggage. The budget-friendly option is available on both domestic and international flights operated by the airline. The fare is designed to offer a lower-cost alternative for light travelers who do not require checked-in luggage. This move aligns with a growing trend among airlines to offer stripped-down fares tailored to minimalist travelers.

India GST Revenue Rises 13.9% to Rs 1.95 Lakh Crore in June 2026
India's Goods and Services Tax collections climbed 13.9% year-on-year to Rs 1.95 lakh crore in June 2026. A sharp 34.6% surge in import tax revenues was a key driver behind the strong growth. The figures reflect the resilience of India's tax framework even amid prevailing global economic uncertainties. Higher refund disbursements during the period also helped improve liquidity for businesses. Analysts view the performance as evidence of maturing tax administration and a more predictable revenue structure.
Ukraine's New Long-Range Missiles Can Strike Targets 1,500 km Into Russia
Ukraine has deployed two new long-range missile systems, the Flamingo and the Neptune, significantly expanding its strike capabilities. The missiles are capable of reaching targets more than 1,500 kilometres away, putting nearly half of Russian territory within range. Their deployment has triggered air raid alerts across a large portion of Russia. The development marks a notable shift in Ukraine's offensive capabilities during the ongoing conflict.

Gulmarg Becomes First Kashmir Tourist Spot to Implement Odd-Even Vehicle Rule
Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination in Kashmir, has introduced an odd-even vehicle rule for the first time. The regulation marks a historic move, making Gulmarg the first tourist site in the Kashmir region to adopt such a traffic management measure. The odd-even system restricts vehicle movement based on registration number plates on alternate days. The initiative is aimed at managing the growing volume of tourist traffic in the hill station.

Why Rahul Gandhi Increasingly Relies on Outsiders Over Veteran Congress Leaders
A noticeable shift in Rahul Gandhi's leadership style has drawn attention within the Congress party, with the leader reportedly placing greater trust in newcomers over long-standing members. The rise of Rajendra Pal Gautam within Congress circles is cited as a key example of this emerging pattern. This approach has sparked internal debate about the direction and priorities of the party's leadership. Observers suggest the trend reflects a deliberate strategy by Rahul Gandhi to reshape the party's identity and power structure.

Indian Sailors Reluctant to Return to Strait of Hormuz Amid Safety Fears
Over 300,000 Indian sailors were employed in global merchant shipping as of 2025, according to India's shipping ministry. Many of these seafarers have expressed deep reluctance to return to routes passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Rising tensions and security threats in the Gulf region have made the passage increasingly dangerous for commercial vessels. The fear among sailors reflects broader concerns about the safety of one of the world's most critical maritime corridors.

Railway TTE arranges free medical aid for feverish toddler on Maharashtra-Goa train
A two-year-old child developed a fever during a train journey from Maharashtra to Goa, prompting swift action from railway staff. A vendor onboard alerted the Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE), who coordinated medical assistance at the next station. A doctor and assistant boarded the train and provided the child with free medication and care. The incident was shared online by the traveller, drawing widespread praise for the responsiveness of Indian Railways staff. The episode has been highlighted as an example of improved service standards within the Indian Railways system.
Passport fees rise, LPG prices revised, Aadhaar updates free: Key changes in effect
Several major financial and policy changes have come into effect across India simultaneously. Passport application fees have been increased, while commercial LPG prices have been revised for households and businesses. Aadhaar holders can now update their email addresses at no cost, and banks are subject to stricter consumer protection regulations. Additionally, EPFO has resumed its online services following a system upgrade, and rural employment guarantee provisions have also been updated.
Japan Plans $6 Billion AI Investment and 10 Million Robots by 2040
Japan has announced plans to invest $6 billion in artificial intelligence as part of a major national technology push. The initiative also includes a target of deploying 10 million AI-powered robots by the year 2040. This move is part of a broader global trend of nations building sovereign AI capabilities. Countries worldwide are increasingly looking to reduce their dependence on AI technology dominated by the United States and China. Japan's plan reflects growing concerns about over-reliance on foreign technology in critical sectors.

Global Ocean Surface Temperature Sets New June Record at 20.98°C
Global average sea surface temperatures reached 20.98 degrees Celsius in June, setting a new all-time record for the month, according to the European Union's Copernicus Marine Service. The figure surpasses previous June records set in both 2023 and 2024. The data highlights a continuing upward trend in ocean heat levels over recent years. Rising sea surface temperatures are a key indicator of broader climate change and can intensify weather events worldwide.

Venezuelan Woman Survives 48 Hours Trapped Under Rubble With Only Her Phone
A 23-year-old Venezuelan woman named Andrea Canonico survived being trapped under rubble for approximately 48 hours. Her mobile phone proved to be a critical lifeline during the ordeal, providing both light and a way to track time. Canonico reportedly told rescuers she had said 'I'm going to sleep' while waiting to be found. The incident highlights the psychological and practical challenges faced by those trapped in structural collapses.

Gait Analysis May Be Key Evidence in Lohagad Fort Murder Case
Ketan Agarwal was allegedly pushed into a gorge at Lohagad Fort near Pune, Maharashtra. His fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, are accused of carrying out the murder. Investigators are now turning to gait analysis as a potential tool to identify suspects captured on surveillance footage. Gait analysis examines an individual's unique walking pattern to establish identity, and could serve as critical forensic evidence in building the case.

Venezuela Quake Survivors Depend on Volunteers Amid Criticism of Government Response
A recent earthquake in Venezuela has left survivors struggling to meet basic needs in the aftermath of widespread devastation. With the government facing sharp criticism for its lack of response, ordinary volunteers have stepped in to fill the gap. Neighbours and strangers are driving grassroots relief efforts, distributing food and providing care to those affected. Survivors have openly condemned the absence of meaningful official support during the crisis.

SIT probing Ram Temple donation fraud gets 15-day extension in Ayodhya case
A Special Investigation Team looking into alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has received a 15-day extension to continue its inquiry. The development comes after accused individuals were placed in judicial custody as part of the ongoing probe. Two senior Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust office-bearers, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, have resigned, citing moral responsibility for the financial irregularities. Uttar Pradesh Police are conducting an intensive investigation, recording statements from Trust officials. Authorities say the probe is being pursued rigorously to ensure a fair and thorough conclusion.