India
China holds 1.4 billion barrels in oil reserves, dwarfing US stockpile: RAND
China has accumulated up to 1.4 billion barrels of oil across its strategic and enterprise-controlled inventories, according to a new study by the RAND Corporation. This figure is more than three times the approximately 413 million barrels stored in the United States government's Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The scale of China's stockpile gives it significant potential influence over global oil markets and pricing. Analysts suggest India, as a major oil-importing nation, may need to reassess its energy security strategy in light of China's growing petroleum reserves.
Bengaluru Tech Professional Goes Missing During Solo Trek Near Kunigal
A Bengaluru-based software professional has gone missing while on a solo trek, just months before his scheduled wedding. Police are investigating after his phone was last traced near Kuduru on the Kunigal Road. The location where his phone signal was last recorded does not match the typical trekking route in the area. Authorities have launched a search operation to locate the missing techie.

Uttarakhand Bridge Collapses Within Seconds Due to Strong River Currents
A bridge in Niti Valley, Uttarakhand was swept away within seconds by powerful water currents, with the incident caught on camera. The collapse has left the area cut off from the main town, disrupting connectivity for local residents. Authorities have issued an advisory urging people to avoid travelling in the affected region. The incident highlights the growing threat posed by strong currents to infrastructure in the mountainous state.

DLF Sells Gurugram Luxury Penthouse to Entrepreneur for Rs 271 Crore
Real estate major DLF has sold a luxury penthouse in Gurugram for Rs 271 crore, according to reports. The buyer is entrepreneur Manav Sardana, who has been associated with automobile firm Imperial Auto. The high-value transaction highlights continued strong demand for ultra-luxury residential properties in the Delhi-NCR region. The deal is among the most significant luxury real estate transactions recorded in Gurugram in recent times.

Lok Sabha Passes Bill on Tribunal Appointments Panel Amid Opposition Uproar
The Lok Sabha has passed a bill aimed at establishing a panel responsible for appointing chiefs and members of various tribunals. The legislation was cleared through a voice vote without any formal debate taking place. Opposition protests disrupted the House proceedings, effectively drowning out any discussion on the bill. The bill's passage marks a significant step in restructuring the appointment process for tribunal leadership across the country.

Delhi's Indira Gandhi Stadium gets Rs 20cr upgrade ahead of BWF World Championships
The Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi has undergone a Rs 20 crore renovation ahead of the BWF World Championships, which returns to India after 17 years. The upgrades follow disruptions caused by pigeons and monkeys during the India Open in January 2025. Organisers have installed double-door entry systems, noise machines, and bird-repellent gel to prevent a repeat of the animal intrusions. A dedicated four-member team of monkey handlers has also been deployed as an additional line of defence. The measures reflect a concerted effort to ensure smooth and uninterrupted play throughout the championships.
Monsoon Session Disrupted for 16 Days Over Delhi Student Protest Crackdown
India's Parliament monsoon session, which commenced on July 20, has been severely disrupted over the past 16 days. The repeated uproar stems from the government's police crackdown on a student protest in Delhi. With the session's time running short, the Centre faces pressure over pending legislative business. The Delimitation Bill is among the key items whose passage remains uncertain amid the ongoing turmoil.

9 Dead as Van Swept Away Crossing Flooded Drain in Madhya Pradesh
At least nine people died after a van was swept away while attempting to cross a flooded drain in Madhya Pradesh. The incident occurred as heavy rains caused dangerous water levels in the area. Local villagers risked their lives by tying ropes and mounting an improvised rescue operation. Their efforts helped save some of the passengers trapped in the vehicle, according to police.

Pakistan replaces head coach with goalkeeping coach days before Hockey World Cup
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) made a last-minute coaching change just hours before the national squad departed for the World Cup. Goalkeeping coach Veldhof has been elevated to the role of head coach of the Pakistan national team. The previously appointed head coach, Kruis, has been reassigned to an advisory role with the federation. The abrupt reshuffle raises questions about preparation and stability ahead of one of hockey's biggest tournaments.
From Wendy's Worker to Yale Scholar: Brazilian Immigrant Wins $194,500 Scholarship
Thalles Winner DeSouza, a 23-year-old Brazilian immigrant, has earned a full scholarship worth over $194,500 to study at Yale University. His path to the Ivy League began after surviving a shooting in Brazil, following which he relocated to the United States. While pursuing his education at a community college, DeSouza supported himself by working at Wendy's, where his managers helped finance three years of his studies. He later transferred institutions and secured admission to Yale, where he intends to major in political science and human rights on a pre-law track.
Russian-Born Citizen Shot By FBI 2 Years Ago. His Family Doesn't Know Why
In the final weeks of his life, however, he abruptly left his home in suburban Virginia, withdrew large amounts of cash and began preparing to leave the country.

IAA Leadership Awards 2026 Honours Leaders Who Navigated Complexity and Change
The IAA Leadership Awards 2026 ceremony recognised outstanding leaders across industries for their ability to manage complexity and adapt to evolving challenges. This year's edition was centred on the theme of balance, highlighting professionals who successfully handled competing priorities. The awards aimed to spotlight individuals who delivered genuine, measurable impact despite difficult circumstances. The event continued IAA's tradition of celebrating leadership excellence and resilience in a rapidly changing environment.

Ian Garry vows to dethrone Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 in Philadelphia
Welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry has issued a bold warning to UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev ahead of their title clash at UFC 330. The bout is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, with Garry gunning for his first UFC championship belt. Garry believes his defensive skills and striking ability will neutralize Makhachev's trademark control-based fighting style. The fight represents the biggest opportunity of Garry's career, coming after he bounced back from a previous defeat.
Three Arrested After Man Stabbed to Death Over Rs 700 Loan Dispute in Delhi
A man was stabbed to death in Delhi following a dispute over an unpaid loan of just Rs 700. Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder. One of the accused is a repeat offender with 10 prior theft cases on record. The arrest was made after investigators traced the suspects following the fatal altercation.

India hold final nets in Colombo with spin focus ahead of Sri Lanka Test opener
India wrapped up their final practice session in Colombo ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, set to begin on August 15. Sarfaraz Khan has been named as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan in the squad for the series. The team trained on dry, cracked net pitches designed to simulate Day 4 playing conditions, highlighting their focus on handling spin. Captain Shubman Gill worked closely with throwdown specialists and coaches to sharpen his batting technique ahead of the first Test.
Wayne Gretzky's Daughter Emma Engaged to Former SMU Football Player Stone Eby
Emma Gretzky, the youngest daughter of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky, has announced her engagement to former Southern Methodist University football player Stone Eby. The couple met while at SMU and recently welcomed a son named Walter in 2025. Emma and Stone shared the engagement news publicly via Instagram. The announcement marks another significant personal milestone for the Gretzky family, drawing attention to Wayne Gretzky's life off the ice.
