India

E20 Petrol May Cut Mileage by Up to 6% but Reduces Carbon Emissions: Gadkari

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament that E20 petrol, a blend containing 20% ethanol, can reduce vehicle mileage by between two and six percent. However, extensive testing has not revealed any engine failures associated with the use of this fuel. Research suggests that E20 offers benefits such as improved acceleration and a smoother ride compared to conventional petrol. The fuel also delivers around 30% lower carbon emissions relative to E10 blends. Automakers have confirmed they will continue to honour warranty claims for vehicles running on E20.

Air Force Chief Urges Faster Tech Adoption, Warns Against Friendly-Fire Risks

India's Air Force Chief has made a strong pitch for self-reliance in defence technology, warning that delays in adoption are equivalent to denial of capability. He stressed the need for robust identification systems to prevent friendly-fire incidents involving drones. The chief highlighted the risk of forces accidentally shooting down their own drones or assets due to inadequate technology. His remarks underline the growing urgency for India to accelerate indigenous defence tech development and deployment.

Delhi Govt Promises No Action Against NEET Protest Detainees, Arrests Under Review

The Delhi government has announced that individuals booked in connection with protests over alleged NEET-UG irregularities will not face adverse legal consequences. Authorities have indicated that existing arrests related to the demonstrations will be reviewed. The protests were held in Delhi over concerns surrounding alleged misconduct in the NEET-UG examination process. The government's assurance signals a conciliatory approach toward those who participated in the demonstrations.

Pune Marathon Runner Dies After Auto-Rickshaw Crash, Organs Save Four Lives

Uday Birmal, a marathon runner from Pune, suffered critical head injuries after being struck by an out-of-control auto-rickshaw on the morning of July 19. The accident occurred while Birmal was training for an upcoming marathon. He succumbed to his injuries following the incident. In a compassionate decision, his family chose to donate his organs after his death. The donation has given a new lease of life to four recipients in need of transplants.

Invasive Mussels Threaten Great Lakes Whitefish With Local Extinction Within 5 Years

Invasive zebra and quagga mussels have significantly altered the Great Lakes ecosystem over recent years. Although the mussels improved water clarity, they did so by consuming the microscopic organisms that juvenile lake whitefish rely on for survival. This disruption to the food chain has led to a sharp decline in whitefish populations across the region. Scientists now warn that the species could disappear from certain parts of the Great Lakes within as little as five years.

215 Academics Criticise Priyanka Gandhi Over 'Cow Urine' Remark on IIT Professor

A group of 215 academics has written an open letter criticising Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for a remark she made referencing cow urine in connection with an IIT professor. The letter argued that dismissing a scholar through labelling, rather than addressing the substance of his views, undermines scientific discourse. The signatories warned that such an approach conflicts with the constitutional value of scientific temper that every citizen is expected to uphold. The open letter called for engaging with academic perspectives on their merits rather than resorting to reductive characterisations.

J&K Pellet Victim Insha Mushtaq Receives Compensation After Losing Sight in 2016

Insha Mushtaq, a Jammu and Kashmir resident, has been awarded compensation years after being blinded by pellet fire in 2016. She was 14 years old when she was struck by a barrage of pellets, resulting in permanent loss of eyesight. Mushtaq became widely recognized as a symbol of the human cost of pellet gun use during unrest in the region. The compensation comes following sustained attention to her case, including media coverage that helped bring her plight to public notice.

Raghav Juyal on comedy film 'Bhai Tera Star Hai' and his evolving Bollywood image

Actor Raghav Juyal has spoken about his upcoming comedy film 'Bhai Tera Star Hai', describing it as a lighthearted entertainer that addresses a gap in current cinema offerings. He believes the film will bring joy to audiences seeking fun, feel-good content. Juyal also reflected on how his critically noted performance in the action film 'Kill' has changed the way the industry perceives him. The actor expressed his desire to balance both genres, using comedy as a vehicle to spread happiness. He additionally shared personal views on his role as a protector and provider in relationships with women.

Erode woman killed after being set on fire by social media acquaintance

A woman in Erode, Tamil Nadu, was burned alive by a man she had met through social media. The two had maintained regular phone contact for several months before the incident. The Erode taluk police are investigating the case. The attack highlights growing concerns over the dangers of online interactions turning violent.

New Zealand pledges $202M to clear invasive mammals from three islands with Māori

New Zealand has committed $202 million to an ecological restoration initiative targeting invasive mammal populations on three major islands: Maukahuka, Rakiura, and the Chatham archipelago. The project is a broad collaboration involving government agencies, local communities, and Indigenous Māori organizations. Its primary goal is to protect and revive native wildlife that has been threatened by introduced mammal species. If successful, the initiative could position New Zealand as a global leader in large-scale environmental restoration efforts.

Modern Transport Aircraft Evolve Into Multi-Role Combat and Rescue Platforms

Transport aircraft have expanded well beyond their traditional cargo-carrying function to become versatile assets in both military and humanitarian operations. Platforms such as the C-130, C-390, and Airbus A400M Atlas are now designed to handle multiple mission types within a single airframe. The A400M Atlas notably bridges the gap between strategic long-range logistics and tactical battlefield requirements. These aircraft are increasingly regarded as force multipliers, enhancing operational effectiveness across a wide range of scenarios.

Minnesota teen's peanut shell pesticide remover earns spot in 3M science finals

Arika Kundu, a 13-year-old student from Minnesota, has developed a method using discarded peanut shells to remove pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables. Her project, named LIGNEX, caught the attention of judges at the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Kundu has been selected as one of ten finalists in the prestigious competition. She will now work alongside a 3M scientist as she competes for the $25,000 grand prize.

Supreme Court allows Friday prayers for Muslims at Bhojshala dargah

The Supreme Court has ruled that Muslims may offer Friday prayers at the dargah located near the Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh. The bench directed the state government to ensure access to the site for Muslims between 1 pm and 3 pm every Friday. The order comes amid an ongoing legal dispute over the Bhojshala complex, which Hindus revere as a temple and Muslims use as a mosque. The Madhya Pradesh government has been made responsible for implementing and enforcing the court's directive.

Stephen Fleming appointed England Test head coach, replacing Brendon McCullum

Stephen Fleming has been officially appointed as England's men's Test head coach, taking over from Brendon McCullum. The former Chennai Super Kings coach will begin his tenure later this summer, with Marcus Trescothick serving as interim coach for the upcoming Pakistan series. Fleming expressed enthusiasm about partnering with returning Test captain Joe Root. The new coaching setup aims to strengthen England's red-ball cricket program going forward.

'May do same with Army': Oppn attacks BJP for India Hockey's saffron jersey

J&K School Blames Copy-Paste Error for Circular Banning Bindi, Tilak, Kalava

A school in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district issued a circular that appeared to prohibit students from wearing religious items such as bindi, tilak, and kalava. The school attributed the controversial directive to a copy-paste error, distancing itself from any deliberate intent to impose the restriction. Recognising the sensitivity of the issue, Chief Education Officer Poonch, Javed Iqbal Gulshan, summoned the school principal to provide a formal explanation. The incident drew attention due to its implications for religious expression among Hindu students.

Government to hold policy, tech discussions with Meta within a week on removal of PM Modi’s post

Delhi Crime Branch Arrests MBA Graduate After 2 Years for Rape and Blackmail

Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested an MBA graduate who had been evading law enforcement for approximately two years. The accused is alleged to have raped a woman at gunpoint and recorded explicit photos and videos of the assault. He reportedly used this material to blackmail and sexually exploit the victim over an extended period by threatening to release the content publicly. The suspect's arrest was carried out by the Crime Branch following a prolonged investigation.

James Bond-themed Florida mansion listed for $85 million in Delray Beach

A luxury mansion called Villa Skyfall, inspired by the James Bond franchise, has been listed for $85 million in Delray Beach, Florida. The property is located within the exclusive Stone Creek Ranch community. The estate features nine bedrooms, a grand salon with crystal chandeliers, a hidden poker lounge, and a rainforest-themed spa. The listing includes all furnishings, allowing buyers to move in and enjoy the property immediately.

25 Cats Rescued from Japan Mall Cat Cafe After Earthquake Triggers Gas Explosion

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan, causing an explosion at an Aeon mall that housed a Cat Cafe MOFF outlet. Staff initially evacuated the premises following the quake but returned to rescue the 25 cats inside. A subsequent gas explosion forced the rescuers to evacuate a second time. Despite the dangerous conditions, all 25 cats were ultimately rescued safely.