India

US shuts down nearly 400 piracy websites illegally streaming FIFA World Cup

US authorities dismantled close to 400 websites that were illegally streaming FIFA World Cup matches as part of an operation called 'Operation Offsides.' The crackdown was aimed at disrupting criminal networks profiting from sports content piracy and underscored the US government's commitment to protecting intellectual property rights. Domains were seized across multiple countries, made possible through international law enforcement collaboration. Authorities also cautioned viewers that accessing unauthorized streams exposes them to serious risks, including malware infections and compromise of personal data.

France Reports 1,000 Excess Deaths in Heatwave, Mostly Among Elderly

France recorded approximately 1,000 excess deaths during a recent heatwave, according to Public Health France. The elderly were disproportionately affected, with those aged 65 and over accounting for 85 percent of the fatalities. Regions placed under red heat alerts experienced the worst impacts. The figures highlight the severe public health toll that extreme heat events can inflict on vulnerable populations.

Key Home Loan Mistakes Borrowers Must Avoid to Save Money and Stress

Taking a home loan is a major financial decision, but many buyers fall into avoidable traps that can lead to rejection or long-term stress. Common errors include failing to check loan eligibility beforehand and overlooking the importance of maintaining a healthy credit score. Borrowing beyond one's repayment capacity is another frequent mistake that can strain finances over time. Experts recommend thoroughly comparing lenders and fully understanding loan terms before committing. Saving adequately for a down payment is also highlighted as essential for a smoother home-buying experience.

Trainee Pilot Injured by Running Propeller While Deboarding Aircraft at Kanpur Airport

A cadet pilot sustained severe back injuries after being struck by a running propeller while deboarding a trainer aircraft at Chakeri Airport in Kanpur. The incident occurred at Garg Aviation, a flying training organization operating at the facility. India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation has initiated a formal investigation into the matter. The probe has brought attention to a reported practice of allowing trainees to disembark aircraft while engines are still running, apparently to speed up training schedules. The incident raises broader concerns about safety standards within certain Indian flying training organizations amid the country's rapidly expanding aviation sector.

Pilgrims stranded in Nepal, MEA issues Mansarovar Yatra advisory

NYC Mayoral Candidate Mamdani Breaks Pool Dress Code at Season Opening Event

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani violated the dress code at a public swimming pool during an official season-opening event. He was joined in the pool by Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura. The incident occurred as the city marked the start of its outdoor pool season. Mamdani later defended his actions, stating he had simply assumed his attire was acceptable.

They thought the gods were angry. Then a Chhattisgarh village began joining the dots between 8 murders

Indian-origin toddler Aarya, 16 months, on track to visit all 63 US National Parks

Aarya, an Indian-origin toddler, is attempting to become the youngest person to visit all 63 national parks in the United States. At just 16 months of age, she has already completed visits to 34 of the parks alongside her parents. The family's journey was inspired by a park ranger, who motivated them to take on this ambitious outdoor challenge. Through this endeavor, Aarya's parents hope to nurture a lifelong appreciation for nature and conservation in their daughter. The family also aims to encourage other parents to explore the outdoors with their young children.

Suspects in Pune Fort Murder Taken to Crime Scene 10 Days After Killing

Siya Goyal, 20, and Chetan Chaudhary, 22, were taken to a fort in Pune to recreate the alleged murder of Ketan Agarwal, 26. Agarwal, who was Goyal's fiancé, was allegedly pushed off the fort on June 18. The crime scene recreation was conducted as part of the ongoing police investigation into the incident. Authorities are working to establish the sequence of events surrounding Agarwal's death.

DR Congo's Famous 'Standing Superfan' Misses World Cup Match After US Visa Denial

DR Congo's celebrated football supporter, known as 'Lumumba Vea,' was denied a US visa and unable to attend his national team's FIFA World Cup match against Uzbekistan. The fan is widely recognised for his distinctive tribute to Congolese independence hero Patrice Lumumba and his energetic standing presence in the stands. Despite his absence, DR Congo secured a historic 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. The win marked the team's first-ever advancement to the Round of 32 in the tournament. This was not the first obstacle for Lumumba Vea, as travel restrictions had already complicated his journey to the competition.

Kashmiri Muslim Leaders Back Amarnath Yatra Ahead of Annual Pilgrimage

Kashmiri Muslim leaders and civil society groups have expressed support for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. The show of solidarity came just days before the annual yatra is scheduled to begin. A meeting of these representatives was convened by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Sinha also serves as the chairman of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, which oversees the pilgrimage.

Cost of US Engines for India's AMCA Triples, Threatening Fighter Jet Timeline

India's fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is facing a major setback after the cost of critical US-made engines reportedly tripled. The price surge threatens both the project's timeline and its budget, raising concerns about the program's viability. The dependency on foreign propulsion systems also affects the Tejas Mk2 fighter, underscoring a broader gap in India's domestic engine development capabilities. While several countries rely on foreign engines during early development phases, the issue is particularly significant for India given its strategic push for self-reliance in defence. Mastering jet engine technology remains a key challenge India must overcome to achieve true autonomy in its aerospace sector.

Ram Temple Theft: Police Raid Suspects' Homes, Probe Family Assets

Police have conducted raids on the homes of suspects linked to a theft at the Ram Temple. Authorities are currently questioning family members of the accused as part of the ongoing investigation. The probe aims to compile a comprehensive list of assets acquired by the suspects' families over the last four years. Investigators are examining whether the assets are connected to the alleged theft.

Indian assistance reaches earthquakes-hit Venezuela under 'Operation Amistad'

Biden, 83, delivers anti-Trump speech in Maryland but struggles to find stage exit

Former US President Joe Biden spoke at a summit in Maryland, sharply criticizing Donald Trump's policies and labeling them 'vanity projects' and corrupt. The 83-year-old relied on a teleprompter during his remarks and paused at points due to coughing. After concluding his speech, Biden appeared briefly uncertain about which direction to exit the stage. The incident follows a separate recent on-stage moment in which he also appeared disoriented.

Djokovic and Kohli share years-long friendship despite never meeting in person

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has revealed an unlikely long-distance friendship with Indian cricket star Virat Kohli. The two sporting icons have been exchanging messages and supporting each other's careers, despite never having met face to face. Djokovic, currently chasing his 25th Grand Slam title, expressed a desire to visit India and meet Kohli in person. Kohli, meanwhile, has his sights set on winning the Cricket World Cup in 2027. The mutual admiration between the two athletes reflects a shared commitment to excellence that cuts across their different sports.

Karnataka Man Kills Sleeping Wife Over Suspected Affair, Alcohol Addiction Cited

A man in Karnataka allegedly murdered his wife while she slept, driven by suspicion of an extramarital affair. The victim, Shobha Pargunda Sarawad, was employed as a cook at Oujikar Math School in Katageri. The accused is reported to be an alcohol addict, which is believed to have contributed to the violent act. Authorities have taken up the case for investigation following the incident.

Modi Highlights Defence Self-Reliance and Public Cooperation in Mann Ki Baat Episode 135

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the 135th episode of his Mann Ki Baat radio programme to praise India's growing self-reliance in defence and aviation. He highlighted indigenous achievements including domestic missile tests and aircraft production, specifically referencing the C-295 aircraft. Modi also acknowledged the public's response during the West Asia crisis, noting a reduction in gold purchases among citizens. He further commended noteworthy fuel conservation efforts by the Indian public during the period.

NIA Names J&K Doctor Muzafar Ahmed as Key Conspirator in 2025 Red Fort Blast

The National Investigation Agency has identified Jammu and Kashmir paediatrician Muzafar Ahmed as a central figure in the 2025 Red Fort bomb blast. Ahmed is alleged to be a founding member of a group linked to Al-Qaeda. According to the NIA, he played a direct role in the terror module's activities, including the manufacture and testing of explosives. The agency filed a supplementary chargesheet that also names two additional individuals accused of supporting the module's operations.

90% of India's Renewable Energy Sites Face High Climate Risk by 2030, Zurich Report Warns

A report by Zurich Group has found that 90% of India's planned renewable energy project sites face high or critical climate risks by 2030. The key hazards identified include floods and wildfires that could severely damage energy infrastructure. Since many of these projects are still in the development phase, there is an opportunity to build resilience measures into their design early. Incorporating such safeguards would cost approximately 2% of capital expenditure but could reduce severe loss exposure by up to 75%. The findings underscore the urgency of climate-proofing India's renewable energy expansion before construction is finalised.