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The Wire
Exclusive: Details of Top Secret India-Seychelles Military Agreement Leaked Online
Exclusive: Details of a top‑secret India‑Seychelles military agreement were leaked online by an insider with government access. The 2018 pact, signed to develop military facilities and station Indian troops on Seychelles’ Assumption Island, was uploaded to YouTube on March 6, 2024, along with three Google Drive folders containing the full text of the 2018 agreement, its 2015 version, and a 2015 side letter outlining conditions for Indian personnel. The leak also revealed detailed drawings from the Detailed Project Report, potentially necessitating revisions and delays. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to comment, while the Seychelles Parliament must ratify the agreement for it to take effect. President Danny Faure is scheduled to attend the International Solar Alliance summit in Delhi on March 11.
By: Devirupa Mitra for The Wire, summarised by Leela Menon
The Wire
P-5 Privileges Breached as Britain Blinks and Indian Judge is Elected to International Court of Justice
Dalveer Bhandari, an Indian former Supreme Court judge, was re‑elected to the International Court of Justice after Britain withdrew its candidate, Sir Christopher Greenwood, during a last‑minute UN vote. The withdrawal broke the long‑standing informal rule that the five permanent Security Council members (the P‑5) automatically secure a seat on the ICJ. In the Security Council all 15 members voted for Bhandari, while the General Assembly, with 183 votes in favour and 10 abstentions, confirmed his election. The move drew congratulations from India and sparked debate in the UK about the implications for British diplomacy and the future of UN reforms.
By: Devirupa Mitra for The Wire, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
IndianOil set for board revamp as govt proposes four MD positions
Indian Oil Corporation’s board will be restructured by the government, replacing its current eight functional directors with four managing director positions. The new structure would feature an executive chairman and four MDs overseeing finance, subsidiaries and alliances; refineries and pipelines; strategy, planning, business development, HR and R&D; and marketing. Functional directors for HR, pipelines and R&D would be eliminated, aiming to streamline operations and accelerate innovation. The proposal awaits approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.
By: Sanjeev Choudhary for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
Hindustan Times
Govt opposes plea in Supreme Court on income-based quota for SC, ST and OBCs
The Centre opposed Supreme Court petitions seeking income‑based reservation preferences for SC, ST, OBC and EWS categories, arguing that such changes fall under executive and legislative purview, not judicial mandate. In a counter affidavit, it cited precedents—Indra Sawhney, Chinnaiah, Nagaraj, Ashoka Kumar Thakur—to assert that the creamy layer doctrine applies only to OBCs, not SCs or STs, and that altering notified lists requires Parliament. The government deemed the petitions misconceived and urged dismissal, with hearings slated for August 18.
By: Utkarsh Anand for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
Trump expresses optimism about lower fuel prices as US-Iran move closer to potential deal on Strait of Hormuz
Trump says progress in US‑Iran talks over the Strait of Hormuz could lower gasoline prices and stabilize a key oil route. He voiced confidence that the conflict would end soon and reiterated the US commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. While security concerns remain, negotiations are advancing, with the US Navy maintaining control of the waterway. Trump’s remarks were made at the Oval Office to reporters.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Scroll.in
India brought back 274 fugitives from 36 countries since 2019, says Centre
India’s Ministry of Home Affairs reported that since 2019 the country has repatriated 274 fugitives from 36 nations. Among them, 62 were wanted for violent crimes, 53 for sexual offences, 17 for terrorism or anti‑national activities, 16 for drug offences, and nine for financial crimes. The repatriation numbers rose from 9 in 2019 to 70 in 2025, with 45 so far in 2026. In the last three years, 401 Red Corner notices were issued, 107 in 2024, 112 in 2025 and 182 in 2026.
By: Scroll Staff for Scroll.in, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Who is Zanny Minton Beddoes? Elon Musk calls The Economist's editor-in-chief ‘traitor to the West’ after long interview
Elon Musk branded The Economist editor‑in‑chief Zanny Minton Beddoes a ‘traitor to the West’ after a July 23 interview where Beddoes challenged his claims of civil war in Britain and support for Germany’s AfD. Musk defended his political views, citing secure borders and spending, while Beddoes accused him of spreading falsehoods to his 240 million followers. The clash highlighted Musk’s admitted political involvement and Beddoes’ reputation as a leading global economics expert.
By: Sumanti Sen for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
What happened to Jim Ross? All on WWE legend's upcoming ‘brain’ surgery, ‘I’m done’
Headline: What happened to Jim Ross? All on WWE legend's upcoming ‘brain’ surgery, ‘I’m done’ The veteran commentator, who has served as an announcer for AEW and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007, is set to undergo brain surgery to receive a shunt. He expects a one‑day hospital stay and remains optimistic about returning to work, hoping to attend AEW’s All In event on August 30. Ross, whose contract expires this month, has expressed a desire for a clean, planned exit from the ring, citing his long‑term health struggles—including Bell’s palsy, skin and colon cancer—and a recent fall that left him hospitalized for over 30 days.
By: Shweta Kukreti for Hindustan Times, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
The Hindu
Taslima Nasrin calls for UCC across subcontinent, wants ban on madrasas
Taslima Nasrin, the exiled Bangladeshi writer, urged all Indian subcontinent countries to adopt a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to safeguard women from religious discrimination, speaking in Kolkata on August 1. She highlighted the suffering of Hindus in Bangladesh, the influence of extremist teachings in madrasas, and called for their closure in favor of secular schools. Nasrin also criticized the West Bengal government’s handling of free speech, citing an incident that blocked poet Joy Goswami from speaking. Her remarks come amid West Bengal’s UCC committee formation.
By: Shiv Sahay Singh for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
NTA floats Rs 7.5 cr security tender to tighten exam safeguards after NEET paper leak
NTA has floated a Rs 7.5 crore tender to secure its headquarters and regional offices after the NEET paper leak. The contract, valid two years with possible extensions, seeks a security firm to guard staff, visitors, exam material, server rooms and other sensitive sites, using metal detectors, GPS‑tracked patrols, biometric attendance and digital incident reporting. Bidders must score 70 % technical weight, have five years’ experience, and meet financial thresholds, with bids due 17 Aug.
By: ET Online for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
NDTV
A Swing And A Hit — Spider-Man: Brand New Day Movie Review
Spider‑Man: Brand New Day, directed by Dustin Daniel Cretton, re‑boots the hero by stripping away his high‑tech persona and focusing on Peter Parker’s everyday struggles. The film blends a grounded narrative with a homemade costume, intimate POV shots, and a modest score, while still delivering action. Tom Holland delivers a mature, relatable Spider‑Man, supported by Zendaya’s evolved MJ and Jon Bernthal’s Punisher, creating a buddy‑cop dynamic. The movie prioritises human connection over spectacle, earning praise for its heartfelt tone.
By: Prajwal Jayaraj for NDTV, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
Hindustan Times
'Next stop, Only Fans': Laura Loomer mocks Marjorie Taylor Greene's Cameo launch as MAGA feud deepens
Laura Loomer criticized former congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s new Cameo account, joking that Greene’s venture is a step toward OnlyFans after Greene began charging fans for personalized videos. Loomer’s remark follows Greene’s resignation from Congress and her break with President Trump, sparking a bitter feud between the two conservative figures. Greene’s Cameo launch, offering birthday wishes and pep talks for $149‑$180 and business videos for about $5,000, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing MAGA rift.
By: Sehjal Gupta for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Deccan Chronicle
Monalisa Opens Up on Motherhood, Family, And Her New Series
Monalisa opens up about her new web‑series role in *Love to Hate You*, her journey from Bhojpuri cinema to television and reality shows, and her commitment to staying controversy‑free. She shares the emotional toll of IVF, caring for ageing parents, and balancing family with a demanding career. The actress praises authenticity over drama, reflects on her first film’s success, and urges respect for parents in old‑age homes. She ends by thanking fans and promising to keep delivering love and entertainment.
By: DC Web Desk for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
Hindustan Times
‘I didn't want to leave Glasgow empty-handed’: Tejaswin Shankar after winning miraculous bronze in men’s decathlon
Headline: ‘I didn't want to leave Glasgow empty-handed’: Tejaswin Shankar after winning miraculous bronze in men’s decathlon. 27‑year‑old Tejaswin Shankar secured a bronze medal in the men’s decathlon at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, despite a knee injury that forced him to withdraw from the high‑jump event where he was a favourite. His perseverance earned India a second CWG medal for him, following his 2022 high‑jump bronze. Shankar praised teamwork, expressed a hunger for more success, and received praise from Prime Minister Modi.
By: Prateek Srivastava for Hindustan Times, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
The Economic Times
Japanese Proverb of the Day: “Money grows on… — Life lessons on perseverance, discipline, resilience, determination and why the best investment is in yourself
Japanese Proverb of the Day: ‘Money grows on the tree of persistence’ reminds readers that lasting success and financial prosperity stem from consistent effort, patience, and determination rather than luck. The saying likens prosperity to fruit that only appear after a tree is nurtured, urging people to stay committed to goals, work through challenges, and trust that persistence will eventually yield growth, opportunity, and long‑term success. It encourages disciplined, resilient, and forward‑moving attitudes in everyday life and work.
By: Advaita Suresh for The Economic Times, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
Hindustan Times
BJP leader's daughter explains why she backs CJP, calls new education minister a 'bleak joke'
Yashaswinee Raje Singh, daughter of former BJP MLA Vikram Singh, publicly backed Gen Z protests demanding Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over the NEET‑UG 2026 paper leak. She praised the Cockroach Janta Party’s social‑media campaign and criticized Pradhan’s resignation letter as “martyr‑like.” Singh also called the appointment of Pralhad Joshi a “bleak joke,” while distancing herself from her father’s politics. The protests, which lasted 36 days, ended with Pradhan’s resignation and government concessions.
By: HT News Desk for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
Eric Trump-backed defense technology company Space-Eyes to go public in $638 million SPAC deal
Space‑Eyes, a Miami‑based defense tech firm developing AI‑powered counter‑drone and geospatial intelligence solutions, will go public via a $638 million merger with SPAC McKinley Acquisition Corp. Eric Trump, now the third‑largest private investor, will serve as strategic adviser, helping secure board candidates and leveraging his security experience. The deal aims to raise up to $251.7 million, enabling the company to scale through third‑party manufacturing and pursue multi‑million‑dollar government contracts worldwide, with a closing target in Q4 2026 on Nasdaq as CUAS.
By: list.metadata.agency for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
Hackers hit Bitcoin’s safest hiding place in ongoing attack
Hackers exploited a software flaw in Coldcard Bitcoin wallets, siphoning roughly $86 million from over 4,500 wallets worldwide. The vulnerability stemmed from a predictable seed‑phrase generation mechanism that used deterministic values instead of true randomness, allowing attackers to reverse‑engineer keys. Coinkite released updated firmware to mitigate the breach, but the incident highlighted the risks of self‑custody and prompted widespread concern in the crypto community.
By: Bloomberg for The Economic Times, summarised by Dev Iyer
The Economic Times
FPIs reverse 4-month selling trend with Rs 20,200 cr inflow in July
FPIs reversed a four‑month selling streak in July, becoming net buyers of Indian equities for the first time in that period by investing Rs 20,200 crore, driven by attractive valuations, improving corporate earnings and a more favourable global backdrop. Debt markets also saw inflows, with Rs 29,212 crore via the general route and Rs 3,033 crore through the fully accessible route. Despite this turnaround, FPIs have withdrawn a net Rs 2.54 lakh crore from Indian equities in 2026, far exceeding the 2025 outflow. Market experts cite stable domestic markets, reasonable large‑cap valuations, easing US dollar pressure and near‑peak US interest rates as key factors, while future flows will hinge on global developments, crude oil prices, US‑Iran tensions, Q1FY27 earnings and RBI policy.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
From L’Oreal to Unilever, global FMCG giants step up India investments to expand retail reach
From L’Oreal to Unilever, global FMCG giants step up India investments to expand retail reach. Global consumer product makers reported strong demand and market share gains in India during the June quarter, with companies like Mondelez, L’Oreal, Reckitt, Unilever, Nestle, Coca‑Cola and PepsiCo citing resilient consumer demand, accelerating premiumisation, expanding distribution and strong digital channels. They plan further investments to strengthen presence in India, seen as a key long‑term growth engine and second‑largest market for many firms.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
Quote of the day by Alexander the Great: "Through every generation of the human race there has been a constant war, a war with..." — Inspiring life lessons on freedom, discipline, resilience, perseverance, and why conquering fear precedes every great victory by the history's greatest military commanders
Headline: Quote of the day by Alexander the Great: "Through every generation of the human race there has been a constant war, a war with..." — Inspiring life lessons on freedom, discipline, resilience, perseverance, and why conquering fear precedes every great victory by the history's greatest military commanders. The article explains Alexander’s famous quote, emphasizing that the true battle is internal, against fear. Conquering this fear unlocks personal freedom and mental strength, while surrendering to it leads to psychological captivity. The message urges readers to face anxiety daily, cultivating courage, resilience, and self‑mastery for lasting success.
By: Piyush Shukla for The Economic Times, summarised by Anaya Sen
Hindustan Times
India, US working to conclude trade agreement early: Govt
India’s commerce ministry said its talks with the U.S. Trade Representative secured a lower tariff for Indian goods, with both sides aiming for an early conclusion of the India‑U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement. The U.S. imposed a 10% ad‑valorem duty on Indian imports, down from an initially proposed 12.5%, placing India in the lower tier of additional tariffs. Exemptions cover 45% of exports, including pharmaceuticals and smartphones, while 55% face a comparatively lower tariff than other economies.
By: HT Correspondent for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
The Hindu
Kerala CM Satheesan’s chopper journey draws flak from CPI(M)
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan faces criticism from the CPI(M) after using a state‑hired helicopter, intended for air ambulance and emergencies, for a personal trip to Kochi to visit his father‑in‑law. The flight, which encountered bad weather and returned to Thiruvananthapuram, was denounced by CPI(M) members as misuse of public resources, while Health Minister K. Muraleedharan defended the move, citing evolving transport needs. Social media echoed the backlash, recalling past critiques of helicopter use by former leaders.
By: The Hindu Bureau for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Who is Daniel Adongo? ICE deports ex-NFL player with criminal record after visa overstay
Former NFL linebacker Daniel Ogama Adongo, 37, was deported by ICE after overstaying his visa in 2016 and accumulating a criminal record, including convictions for criminal mischief, intimidation, battery and disorderly conduct. The Laken Riley Act mandates detention without bond for illegal entrants convicted of certain crimes. Adongo, who played for the Indianapolis Colts from 2013 to 2015, was removed on June 20 following a DOJ immigration judge order. ICE highlighted his removal as a community safety measure.
By: Sumanti Sen for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
RFK's daughter Kerry Kennedy responds to Fauci diary release: 'Mum admired you, considered you a hero'
Kerry Kennedy, daughter of late Senator Robert F. Kennedy, defended Dr. Anthony Fauci after Senator Rand Paul released Fauci’s pandemic‑era diaries. Kennedy posted on X that her mother, Ethel Kennedy, admired Fauci and called him a hero, sharing an excerpt where the Kennedys invited him to a Fourth of July gathering. She criticized the diary release as a privacy violation, arguing that private journals should only be published if they reveal wrongdoing. Fauci faces a Senate hearing on COVID‑19 origins.
By: Shirin Gupta for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Anbumani says Mekedatu dam would block Cauvery flows to TN
Anbumani Pillai, former union health minister and PMK leader, warned that Karnataka’s Mekedatu dam project would block Cauvery water flow to Tamil Nadu. He cited erratic releases from Karnataka’s reservoirs, claiming the state is diverting water to the Krishna Raja Sagara reservoir instead of Tamil Nadu’s share. With reservoirs near full capacity, he argued Mekedatu would trap surplus water, preventing any flow into Tamil Nadu. He urged the state to unite parties and farmers to oppose the project and protect its water rights.
By: Staff for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
Quote of the Day by Spider-Man: 'Anyone can win a fight when the odds are easy! It's when the going's tough…'
Quote of the Day by Spider‑Man: ‘Anyone can win a fight when the odds are easy! It’s when the going’s tough…’ The line, from The Amazing Spider‑Man #33 (1966), captures a pivotal moment where Peter Parker, trapped under machinery with water rising, must retrieve a serum for Aunt May. Marvel frames it as a classic test of resilience, emphasizing that true courage is shown when success seems impossible, not when it’s easy. The message transcends comics, urging perseverance in any daunting challenge.
By: Trisha Bhattacharya for Mint, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
India Today
Animesh Kujur marches into 200m semis, Toor-Gill reach shot put final
Animesh Kujur secured a spot in the men’s 200m semi‑finals at the Commonwealth Games with a season’s best 20.46 seconds, topping Heat 4 and ranking seventh overall. Meanwhile, shot putters Tajinderpal Singh Toor and Samardeep Singh Gill advanced to the final; Toor cleared 20.14m, the second‑best overall, while Gill’s best 19.95m placed him fifth among qualifiers. India now aims to turn these strong performances into medals in Glasgow.
By: India Today Sports Desk for India Today, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Hindustan Times
How to attract more miracles into your life with 9 simple practices, according to a Feng Shui expert
Kanakanjali Roy, Deputy Chief Content Producer at HT Digital Streams, writes on astrology, lifestyle, and psychology, guiding readers toward emotional clarity. With a background as a senior copywriter and entertainment reporter, she covers celebrity events, film reviews, and web series. A Gauhati University English Literature graduate, she also pens poetry and reflective pieces on self‑love and modern relationships. Outside work, she enjoys nature, travel, and Instagram musings, encouraging readers to notice everyday stories and connect deeply with themselves and the world.
By: Kanakanjali Roy for Hindustan Times, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
NDTV
Updated WTC Points Table After Pakistan Thrash West Indies To Level Series
Pakistan climbed a spot in the World Test Championship after a dominant eight‑wicket win over the West Indies in the second Test of their Trinidad series, moving from one win in five matches to two wins in six. The victory ended Pakistan’s eight‑match away losing streak and lifted them to eighth in the nine‑team table with a 22.22% PCT. Australia tops the standings with 87.50%, followed by South Africa and New Zealand. The series finished 1‑1, with Pakistan’s Babar Azam returning as captain.
By: Staff for NDTV, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Hindustan Times
Pogacar looking to enjoy 'small things' after 5th Tour de France win
Pogacar, now a five‑time Tour de France champion, shrugged off historic comparisons, saying he simply wants to savor the victory and enjoy life’s small pleasures. He described the final stage as a grueling battle with Mathieu van der Poel, noting the intense effort and the narrow photo‑finish that secured his win. Meanwhile, Remco Evenepoel finished second, claiming it vindicated his ambition to compete in Grand Tours after critics doubted his mountain abilities.
By: Staff for Hindustan Times, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Deccan Chronicle
DFGC, UNICEF India Renew Partnership to Boost Early Childhood Disability Care
DFGC and UNICEF India have renewed their partnership to boost disability‑inclusive early childhood development from August 2026 to July 2029. The new phase builds on the first period’s successes—training 20,000 frontline workers and 50,000 paediatricians, strengthening 2,200 Anganwadi centres, and establishing Centres of Excellence. The focus will be on early identification of developmental delays, expanding district care through DEICs, and deepening family support to ensure timely, coordinated services for high‑risk infants and young children.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Anaya Sen
The Economic Times
Arvind Kejriwal hits out at BJP over 'use of AK-47' on student protesters in Bihar
Arvind Kejriwal criticised the BJP after a video surfaced showing a police constable allegedly firing an AK‑47 at a student protest in Siwan, Bihar, on July 25. The constable was suspended and departmental proceedings began. Kejriwal questioned whether students should be treated as terrorists and invoked the historic ‘Vacate the throne’ slogan. Tejashwi Yadav demanded a judicial probe into the incident. The incident sparked criticism from Congress leaders and raised concerns over police use of firearms against protesters.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Scroll.in
‘The Last Free Naga’: Jim Wungramyao Kasom’s short stories recreate the North East of the 1990s
‘The Last Free Naga’ by Jim Wungramyao Kasom presents 12 short stories set in the Naga homeland of the 1990s, weaving vivid depictions of misty valleys, rivers, and forests with the harsh realities of war, violence, and social change. The narrator resists romanticising, instead offering a sober, intimate portrayal of people’s lives, their struggles to stay or leave, and the enduring influence of land and community. The prose, rich in sensory detail, invites readers to linger with the characters long after the final page.
By: Suchismita Ghosh for Scroll.in, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
Uttarakhand rains: Alaknanda, Mandakini breach danger mark; schools shut in 3 districts
Rajendra Kumar Saxena, a veteran of nearly two decades in financial journalism, serves as Content Editor at Livemint.com, overseeing story selection, original reporting, editing, and SEO-driven content strategy to reach a global audience. His expertise spans global economics, commodities, stock markets, politics, banking, foreign affairs, and technology. Saxena’s career includes stints at Financialexpress.com and The Hindu, and he holds a Master of Journalism from MCNUJC in Delhi.
By: Rajendra Saxena for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
Hindustan Times
Lko’s Kalyan Singh cancer institute: Another doctor quits; psychiatry dept set to shut down
Lko’s Kalyan Singh cancer institute faces a crisis as Dr Tiwari resigns, citing a large salary gap with other government and premier medical institutions. His departure threatens to shut down the psychiatry department, depriving cancer patients of essential mental‑health support. This exit follows earlier resignations of a neurosurgeon and a nuclear medicine doctor, with about 28 specialists leaving in two years. With only 42 specialists on staff versus a sanctioned 121, the centre struggles to meet daily patient demands.
By: HT Correspondent for Hindustan Times, summarised by Farah Qureshi
The Hindu
SIR excludes 1.8 lakh voters from Meghalaya's draft electoral roll
SIR has removed 1.8 lakh voters from Meghalaya’s draft electoral roll, cutting the list from 23,49,645 to 21,69,243 electors. The revision identified 81,490 deceased, 45,011 untraceable or absent voters, 42,532 people who had permanently shifted, 6,701 duplicate entries and 4,668 refused or other cases. The exercise achieved 100% distribution and digitisation of forms, linked 7,75,665 electors directly to the 2005 SIR database and 11,70,792 through ancestral records, while 2,22,786 remain unlinked. The draft roll launch starts a statutory period for claims and objections until September 4, and the Election Commission has approved adding 86 new polling stations, raising the total to 3,637.
By: Staff for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
Scroll.in
An evolutionary model that predates Darwin’s natural selection is making a comeback
An evolutionary model that predates Darwin’s natural selection is making a comeback. The article explains how the discredited Lamarckian idea—that parents can acquire traits during their lifetimes and pass them to offspring—has gained new support through epigenetic studies. Experiments with worms, plants, and even killer whales show inherited small RNAs and learned skills that improve offspring survival. The author argues Lamarckian acquisition can coexist with natural selection, enhancing evolutionary theory and practical applications in agriculture and conservation.
By: Pim Edelaar, The Conversation, Pim Edelaar, The Conversation for Scroll.in, summarised by Dev Iyer
Deccan Herald
US role in West Asia could be reduced because of Pak-Saudi-Turkiye defence pact: Experts
Pakistani, Saudi and Turkish leaders signed a joint defence pact on Friday, pledging collective retaliation if any member is attacked, amid rising tensions in West Asia. The agreement signals a shift in regional security dynamics and could reduce the United States’ influence in the area, according to experts. The three nations aim to deter external threats and strengthen their military cooperation, potentially reshaping alliances and power balances across the region.
By: Staff for Deccan Herald, summarised by Leela Menon
Times Of India
Amid opposition walkout, Rajya Sabha gives approval to Vande Mataram bill
Amid a mass walkout by opposition MPs, the Rajya Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, allowing up to three years’ jail or a fine for those who prevent or disturb the rendition of 'Vande Mataram'. The opposition, including Congress, TMC, DMK, RJD, and Sena UBT, protested the bill and demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on police action against NEET paper‑leak protesters. While AAP joined the debate, BJP MPs welcomed the criminalisation, and AIADMK criticised the practice of playing state anthems after the national song.
By: TNN for Times Of India, summarised by Leela Menon
India Today
Seattle food festival shooting kills 2, injures 5 including toddler
Seattle food festival shooting kills 2, injures 5 including toddler. During the final hours of the annual Bite of Seattle festival near the Space Needle, a gunman opened fire around 6 pm, killing two people and injuring five others, including a two‑year‑old boy. Police evacuated the Seattle Center campus, sent SWAT teams, and treated victims at Harborview Medical Centre. Authorities have not yet identified a suspect or confirmed arrests, and the incident halted the event’s proceedings.
By: India Today World Desk for India Today, summarised by Anaya Sen
NDTV
ITC Shares Jump 4% As Cigarette Revenue Surges 81%, Jefferies Flags Volume Resilience
ITC Ltd. shares surged 4.1% to Rs 292.55 after its cigarette business posted an 81% year‑on‑year revenue jump to Rs 15,383 crore, prompting Jefferies to upgrade the stock to 'Buy' with a Rs 350 target. Despite the cigarette boom, consolidated profit fell 27.1% to Rs 3,579 crore, revenue dropped 14.4% to Rs 16,908 crore, and EBITDA margin contracted to 26.7%. Other brokers offered mixed views, citing volume resilience, price hikes, and tax uncertainties.
By: Anirudh Saligrama for NDTV, summarised by Meera Rao
The Wire
Listen | If Satluj Had Been Released Two Years Ago, It Would Have Come And Gone Without Controversy
Headline: Listen | If Satluj Had Been Released Two Years Ago, It Would Have Come And Gone Without Controversy The film Satluj was removed from an OTT platform within 48 hours of its release, sparking debate. Made four years earlier, the director Honey Trehan refused 127 censor cuts. After the takedown, the film circulated freely in Punjab. Veteran journalist Kanwar Sandhu expressed surprise at government actions, noting the abrupt removal raised curiosity. He compared the handling to the farm protests, criticizing unilateral decisions and a half‑hearted concession by the prime minister.
By: Sidharth Bhatia for The Wire, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Russia-Ukraine War: CCTV Captures Powerful Strike Shaking Ukraine's Pavlohrad City
Headline: Russia-Ukraine War: CCTV Captures Powerful Strike Shaking Ukraine's Pavlohrad City Security camera footage captured a powerful strike on Pavlohrad in eastern Ukraine, causing a blast that shook the city and echoed explosions across the area. Authorities are assessing the damage as the conflict continues to intensify throughout the region. The incident highlights the ongoing volatility and the impact of the war on local communities.
By: hindustantimes.com, Hindustan Times for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
Meta executives to meet MeitY officials on AI content rules and takedown safeguards after Modi video glitch
Meta senior executives will meet MeitY officials on 5‑6 August to discuss India’s AI content rules after a technical glitch temporarily removed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reel from Facebook. The video was briefly inaccessible, prompting Meta to issue a statement, apologise, and claim new protocols for prominent accounts. Parliamentary panel chief Nishikant Dubey demanded an apology from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, warning that failure could lead to loss of Section 79 safe‑harbour protection.
By: Sayak Basu for Mint, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Big scoop on use of pellet guns during CJP Jantar Mantar protest: Police daily diary entry reveals details
Big scoop on use of pellet guns during CJP Jantar Mantar protest: Police daily diary entry reveals details. An entry in the Parliament Street Police Station diary confirms that on July 20, a deputy police commissioner and CRPF deputy commandant ordered at least two rounds of firing, including 55 non‑electric shells, 15 electric shells, tear‑smoke grenades and two ARG rounds with plastic pellets. Four protesters sustained pellet wounds, one likely to lose eyesight. The incident is under Supreme Court scrutiny, with petitions seeking decommissioning of pellet‑firing weapons and compensation for victims.
By: Prawesh Lama for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
RBI gives banks more time to implement bulk deposit rate norms, deadline now Oct 1
RBI has extended the deadline for banks to implement new differential interest rate rules on bulk deposits to October 1, after receiving feedback. The norms allow banks to set varied rates on deposits above Rs 3 crore, factoring in Liquidity Coverage Ratio run‑off rates. Banks must publish daily bulk deposit rates by 10:00 am, with a 10‑minute grace. Deposits below Rs 3 crore remain exempt, and RBI declined requests for broader run‑off rate use or standard categorisation.
By: Joel Rebello for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
Deccan Herald
Govt says nitrate contamination found in groundwater of 502 districts across 26 states
Govt says nitrate contamination found in groundwater of 502 districts across 26 states. Anupriya Patel informed Lok Sabha that 20.71% of analysed groundwater samples exceeded 45 mg per litre nitrate levels. The finding covers 502 districts in 26 states, highlighting widespread contamination. The data underscores the need for remedial action and monitoring to safeguard drinking water quality across the country.
By: Ajith Athrady for Deccan Herald, summarised by Anaya Sen
Hindustan Times
Why are SpaceX investors asking Elon Musk to paint Starship pink?
Why are SpaceX investors asking Elon Musk to paint Starship pink? Investors use a Tesla‑style Q&A platform to influence SpaceX’s earnings calls, voicing interests beyond finances, such as branding, education, charity, and sponsorships. Questions range from the Artemis program to selling heat‑shield tiles for fans, and even a pink Starship. The forum shows retail investors view SpaceX as a broader brand tied to Musk’s long‑term vision, not just a rocket maker.
By: Durva More for Hindustan Times, summarised by Meera Rao
Times Of India
'Disgusting': BJP targets Udhayanidhi Stalin over remark against actor 'Trisha'
Headline: 'Disgusting': BJP targets Udhayanidhi Stalin over remark against actor 'Trisha' Udhayanidhi Stalin, DMK leader of the opposition in Tamil Nadu, sparked controversy during a protest on the Cauvery dispute when a crowd chant of "Trisha" prompted him to make a remark widely seen as a vulgar double entendre. BJP spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy condemned the comment as "disgusting, obscene, vulgar and shameful," calling for his arrest. TVK MLA Rhevanth Charan also denounced the DMK leader’s conduct, labeling it a decline in political standards and warning of further backlash.
By: Lairenlakpam Warli for Times Of India, summarised by Leela Menon