India

Phillip Island removed foxes; little penguin colony grew from 12,000 to 40,000

India wins double skeet bronze at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games after shoot-off

India's men's skeet team claimed a bronze medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games after finishing level with Kazakhstan at 346 points and winning a subsequent shoot-off. The Indian women's skeet team also secured bronze, recording 331 points in their event. Shooter Anantjeet Singh Naruka has qualified for the individual skeet final. In another discipline, India's women's kabaddi team maintained their strong run with a convincing victory over Iran.

No Dissent From Election Commissioners on Gyanesh Kumar Appointment: Sources

Sources have told NDTV that no election commissioner formally dissented over the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as Chief Election Commissioner. The commissioners had only made certain observations, which the Election Commission subsequently examined and addressed. The clarification comes amid opposition parties raising questions and targeting Gyanesh Kumar over his selection. The sources emphasized a clear distinction between official dissent and informal observations made during internal deliberations.

RERA orders builder to pay 10.7% interest for 18-month delay on Rs 44.36L flat

A real estate developer has been directed by RERA to compensate a homebuyer after delaying possession of a flat worth Rs 44.36 lakh by 18 months. The regulatory authority ordered the builder to pay interest at a rate of 10.7% on the amounts already paid by the buyer. The interest calculation will begin from June 26, 2025, and will continue until the buyer receives lawful possession of the flat. The ruling highlights RERA's role in protecting homebuyers from delays by holding developers financially accountable.

Rare 1776 US Declaration copy found in old Royal Navy papers

Trump Hits Out at ICC, Climate Agenda and UNESCO in UN General Assembly Speech

Former U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, using much of his speech to highlight his own achievements. Unlike his address the previous year, in which he positioned himself as a top Nobel Peace Prize contender, Trump made no mention of the award this time. His tone was notably more combative, with sharp criticism directed at the International Criminal Court. He also attacked the UN's climate agenda and UNESCO, signaling a hardened stance toward several major international institutions.

14-year-old turns scrap tools into sculptures, sells metal wolf for $8,000

Karnataka man killed in UAE, body dismembered; wife and son unreachable

Alwin, a man from Kundapur in Karnataka's Udupi district, was reported missing after his last contact with family in July. Suspicions were raised when relatives received unusual text messages from his phone, which he seldom used. His body was subsequently found in Sharjah, UAE, and the family received a death certificate, prompting them to file multiple complaints. Alwin's wife and son have remained unreachable throughout the investigation. Udupi police are awaiting official confirmation of the incident from the relevant authorities.

GM Irina Krush on 13th Olympiad, commentary career, and US women's chess rise

American chess grandmaster Irina Krush spoke exclusively to Times of India about her long and decorated career in the sport. Krush made history by becoming the United States' youngest women's chess champion at the age of 14 and remains the only American woman to hold the GM title. She has been a key figure in all three historic Olympiad medals won by the US women's team. Now preparing for her 13th Chess Olympiad, Krush also balances a parallel career as a chess commentator. In the interview, she reflected on the evolving landscape of American chess and the personal challenges of competing at the highest level over such a long career.

India Ranks 94th on SDG Index, Poverty Falls but Inequality Persists

India scored 68.3 out of 100 on the Sustainable Development Goals index, placing it 94th among 169 countries. Only 5.1% of Indians now live below $3 a day, reflecting notable progress in poverty reduction. Since 2015, India has climbed 18 places in the SDG rankings, the largest improvement among major world powers. However, the report highlights that significant gaps remain, indicating that broader inequalities are yet to be fully addressed.

US Hospitals Agree to Halt Gender Treatments for Under-19 Transgenders

Several US hospitals have reached agreements with the Trump administration to stop providing gender-affirming medical treatments to transgender individuals under the age of 19. The deals appear to be part of the Trump administration's broader push to restrict gender-related healthcare for minors. However, the hospitals have clarified that the agreements will not affect their pediatric mental healthcare programs for transgender children. The move has drawn attention amid ongoing national debate over healthcare rights for transgender youth.

‘Invisible hand running Election Commission’: Opposition on Express report on Election Commissioners objecting to poll panel steps

Visually Impaired Singer Vaikom Vijayalakshmi Wins National Award for Best Playback Singer

Vaikom Vijayalakshmi has been awarded the National Award for Best Female Playback Singer, recognizing her contributions to Indian music. The singer, who lives with visual impairment, has been a vocal advocate for inclusivity throughout her career. Her personal life has also seen significant challenges, including navigating a difficult marriage and ongoing medical treatment. Despite these hardships, she has pursued her passion for music with resilience and determination. Her recognition at the National Awards highlights how personal adversity can coexist with professional achievement.

Trump bought up to $50,000 in SpaceX shares, sold them within a week

Former US President Donald Trump made notable investment moves in July, including buying and quickly selling a stake worth up to $50,000 in Elon Musk's SpaceX. His trading activity during the month also covered major companies such as Microsoft and Amazon. In total, Trump executed over 1,150 transactions, reflecting a broad and active investment approach. His portfolio moves extended to bond purchases and exchange-traded funds as well.

Soaring Property Prices Push Taiwanese Buyers Toward Cheaper 'Haunted Homes'

Skyrocketing real estate costs in Taiwan are prompting homebuyers to consider properties with dark histories, commonly known as 'haunted houses,' which are priced significantly lower than the market rate. These homes are typically associated with past deaths or violent incidents, making them less desirable in a culture where superstition remains strong. Many financial institutions are hesitant to offer loans for such properties, citing concerns over difficult resale prospects. Despite these hurdles, some buyers proceed with purchases and often perform traditional spiritual rituals before moving in to appease perceived spirits. The trend highlights how economic pressure is intersecting with deep-rooted cultural beliefs in Taiwan's modern housing market.

Imran Khan Accuses Pakistani Forces of Intimidation During Night Raid

Imran Khan has levelled serious allegations against Pakistani security forces ahead of a planned major march. His family's account details a night raid in which officers allegedly ordered subordinates to seize individuals and force them into vehicles. The statement cites commands given in Urdu as evidence of conduct described as disrespectful, intimidating, and unprofessional. The allegations have been made public in the lead-up to what is being described as a significant political demonstration.

Delhi Police warns against sharing photos on unknown AI tools amid blackmail risk

Delhi Police has issued a public advisory cautioning residents against uploading personal photographs to unverified AI-based tools. Authorities warn that such images can be misused to create fake profiles or facilitate fraud and blackmail. Users are urged to avoid clicking on suspicious or unverified links that could expose them to scams. Those who fall victim to cyber fraud are encouraged to report incidents through official police channels.

Colombo-Bound Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Chennai After Engine Failure

A flight bound for Colombo made an emergency landing at Chennai Airport following an engine failure. The aircraft was diverted to Chennai as a precautionary safety measure. The incident prompted an emergency response at the airport. Aviation authorities and the airline are expected to investigate the cause of the engine failure.

FBI Probes Alleged 2TB Data Breach of Its Job Application Website

The FBI is investigating a cyberattack targeting its official job application portal, FBIjobs.gov. Hacker group ShinyHunters has claimed responsibility, alleging they stole over 2 terabytes of sensitive data belonging to FBI employees and applicants. The group says they exploited a vulnerability in Oracle's PeopleSoft system to gain access. Cybersecurity experts have raised concerns about the long-term risks to individuals whose data may be circulating among malicious actors.

Pickup Crane Runs Over Teen Near College, Driver Flees Scene

A teenage girl named Prerna was fatally struck by a pickup crane while walking to her college. The incident was captured on camera and occurred just 200 metres from the college entrance. The crane driver was allegedly driving recklessly at the time of the accident. After running over the girl, the driver fled the scene without stopping to help. Authorities are investigating the incident based on the available footage.