The Economic Times

Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited announced a power cut for July 25. Urgent maintenance work at the Abbigere substation will cause the disruption. Electricity supply will be unavailable for four hours during the afternoon. Several areas including Kammagondanahalli and Abbigere Industrial Area will be affected. This outage is scheduled to occur between 10 am and 2 pm.

Indonesian rescuers are searching for a missing speedboat carrying eleven European tourists and two local crew members. The vessel departed Tanjung Unauna regency on Friday morning and failed to arrive as scheduled. Concerns arose when their speedboat had not arrived by afternoon, prompting an immediate search. Search teams are covering approximately 300 square nautical miles of waters around Tomini Bay.

Iran's Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali on Friday said that Tehran's swift response in rescuing all crew members, including 28 Indian nationals, after a Mozambican-flagged LPG tanker was attacked near Iranian territorial waters reflected the Islamic Republic's commitment to protecting the lives and safety of seafarers irrespective of their nationality.

Thirteen children fell ill after consuming suspected mushroom-laced chocolate at a New Jersey YMCA summer camp. Authorities are investigating the incident which occurred shortly after eleven AM on Thursday. Camp staff enacted emergency protocols and contacted emergency services and parents immediately. Police have identified a suspect but no charges have been filed as the investigation continues.

Market participants expect the reserves to rise going ahead as inflows from the foreign currency non resident bank FCNR(B) deposits start to trickle in.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded the removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy and sought an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk alleged harassment while leaving Safdarjung Hospital before his transfer. Safdarjung Hospital rejected these claims, stating the video predates a court order. Wangchuk was on a hunger strike for examination reforms and protester protection. He ended his fast after receiving government assurances and assurances from MPs. He was later shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on July 21.

A special judge has taken charge of a designated court for paper leak cases. This new fast-track court will handle unfair means in public examinations. The trial for the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak may transfer to this court. This action follows Prime Minister Modi's announcement for swift justice. The court will now operate as a specially designated fast-track court.

Madhya Pradesh High Court has designated four special fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases. These courts will aim to dispose of all cases within three months of charge sheet filing. This decision follows the central government's assurance to establish similar courts for exam malpractices.

Jhandu Kumar secured India's first medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. He won a bronze in Men's Heavyweight Para Powerlifting in Glasgow. Kumar, son of a vegetable vendor, overcame significant financial and physical challenges. He trained rigorously after long workdays to achieve his sporting dream. This bronze medal marks a life-changing achievement for the determined athlete.

A Spanish region is using rescued donkeys to prevent devastating wildfires because these animals graze on dry vegetation, creating natural firebreaks across forests. The Tivissa Donkeys Firefighters initiative rescued abandoned animals, and this sustainable approach combines animal welfare with environmental conservation efforts. Canada is also exploring similar grazing methods to reduce wildfire risks.

Ahmedabad-Viramgam Highway closed due to excessive water flow from heavy rainfall. Authorities are maintaining extra vigilance in Dholka and Viramgam areas. Rescue operations have relocated hundreds of people as a precautionary measure. South Gujarat, especially Valsad, received extremely heavy rainfall causing widespread flooding.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has been diagnosed with typhoid but vowed protests will continue. Nationwide demonstrations demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation will persist. Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after receiving government assurances. The CJP seeks a written commitment and a neutral venue for discussions. They maintain that Pradhan's resignation is the only acceptable outcome.

The Trump administration admitted cancelling grants based on state political identity. This action targeted sixteen states which had voted for Democrat Kamala Harris. Officials previously claimed cancellations were due to project viability and national energy needs. Democrats criticized the move as weaponizing government and punishing families for political views.

Vozinha, Cape Verde's FIFA World Cup 2026 hero, has agreed to join Chilean giants Colo Colo after emerging as one of the tournament's biggest breakout stars. The 40-year-old goalkeeper, previously linked with Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, completed a remarkable journey from free agent to FIFA Dream Team selection following his stunning World Cup performances.

Scorching temperatures across Europe also raise concerns over potential crop losses. This situation could lift costs for staples like bread and cooking oil.

The Kerala High Court denied parole to a man convicted of rape. He sought leave to attend his wife's post-funeral ceremony. The court cited the grave nature of the offences committed. Granting parole would send a wrong message to society, it stated. Maximum leniency was already shown by allowing funeral attendance.

Howard University unenrolled over five hundred incoming students this week. These students did not meet financial and enrollment obligations by deadlines. Many affected students shared their distress on social media platforms. The university stated it will review each case for potential reinstatement. This situation has caused significant anxiety for aspiring scholars.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari condemned the attack on police and journalists. He visited injured journalists at SSKM Hospital and ensured their treatment. Opposition leader Ritabrata Banerjee also met the injured and demanded swift action. Protests erupted in Kolkata regarding the NEET paper leak issue. Police managed the crowd and ensured the demonstration remained peaceful.

Two workers died in a firecracker factory explosion in Saharanpur's Kunda Basi village. Local authorities immediately rushed to the site and began a thorough investigation. Earlier this week, fourteen women workers were hospitalized after an ammonia gas leak. This incident occurred at a meat processing plant in Saharanpur's Gagalheri area. Work at the plant was temporarily halted as officials launched a formal probe.

Bijendra Kumar Gupta, the main accused in the Maharashtra TET paper leak case, was apprehended. Bhiwandi Police arrested Gupta from Bihar on Saturday, officials confirmed. Gupta has now been brought to Pune Airport for further legal proceedings. He will subsequently be taken to Pune for continued investigation. Police identified Gupta as the prime accused in the paper leak.

Commonwealth Games Schedule July 25: India secured a bronze medal in para powerlifting on Day 2 of the Games. Swimmers and boxers also advanced, showing strong performances. Day 3 features gymnastics, boxing, and swimming events for India. Sachin Siwach begins his boxing campaign in the men's 60kg category. Medal prospects on Day 3 depend on qualification for finals.

Bihar Bandh news: A Bihar bandh has been called today by AISA and student groups over education reforms and the resignation of the Union Education Minister. Heavy security is in place across the state, including capital Patna, with some student leaders detained. Commuters should expect potential disruptions and traffic diversions in various areas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit the United States next week. He is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Tuesday. This meeting follows President Trump's remarks at a White House dinner. Netanyahu will also attend Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral during his visit. The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran will be a key topic.

Japanese proverb of the day, Hana wa sakuragi, hito wa bushi, offers timeless wisdom that still shapes modern thinking. Meaning Among flowers, the cherry blossom; among people, the warrior, this traditional Japanese proverb values honor above success and character above comfort. The cherry blossom blooms briefly yet leaves a lasting impression. The warrior earns respect through courage and integrity, not longevity.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the Centre. He feared a crackdown and wanted to prevent violence against protesters and students. Wangchuk emphasized his primary goal was protecting students from legal consequences and violence. Union ministers met him and agreed to consider compensation and parliamentary discussion. He expressed confidence that the movement would continue pressing for the minister's resignation.

The United States will restart importing Mexican cattle after a year-long ban. This halt had previously driven American beef prices to record highs. The ban was initially imposed to prevent the screwworm pest from entering the country. However, the pest was later detected in Texas and New Mexico farms. Imports will resume in Douglas, Arizona, in thirty days with phased reopenings.

Prime Minister Modi raised Indian maritime worker safety with President Trump. He also highlighted this issue at the G7 Summit Outreach Session. The ongoing West Asia conflict disrupted global maritime trade and caused seafarer losses. Both leaders reaffirmed commitment to strengthening the India-US partnership. They also welcomed progress in defense, technology, energy, and trade.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated Tehran will not yield to American pressure or intimidation. He asserted that the United States relies on coercion, which is the main barrier to dialogue. Araghchi emphasized protecting Iranian interests and people as a core principle for the nation. He urged SCO members to counter Washington's unilateralist agenda and dominance. Iran's armed forces and diplomats are executing complementary roles for the nation.

President Donald Trump attended a rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner. The event occurred with enhanced security measures and a smaller attendance. Journalists received awards for their reporting on the administration. The dinner aimed to reaffirm the importance of a free press. Tensions between the media and the president remain high.

President Donald Trump has implemented new tariffs on sixty trading partners. These duties were imposed using previously utilized legal authorities. Additional tariffs target Canadian goods under an untested justification. Analysts suggest these actions could prove more durable to legal challenges. This move generates significant trade uncertainty for global economies.

Devshayani Ekadashi 2026: Devshayani Ekadashi in 2026 falls on Saturday, July 25, beginning Chaturmas. This sacred period signifies Lord Vishnu's divine sleep for four months. Devotees observe fasts and prayers for spiritual growth and blessings. The Ekadashi Tithi begins on July 24 and ends on July 25. Fasting concludes on July 26 after sunrise, marking the end of this observance.

The Trump administration faces two new lawsuits challenging its latest global tariffs of 10%-12.5%, imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act. Small businesses argue the tariffs unlawfully revive measures previously struck down by the US Supreme Court and fail to justify country-specific actions. The cases add to ongoing legal disputes over billions of dollars in refunds from earlier invalidated tariffs.

Thousands fled homes as massive forest fires raged out of control. French and Spanish firefighters battled intense blazes fueled by high temperatures. Evacuations impacted areas near Bordeaux and Madrid, with some fleeing by boat. European nations sent reinforcements to aid firefighting efforts in both countries. Spain has experienced its worst fires on record this year.

The cabinet approved a bill proposing stricter punishments for paper leaks. Union ministers met with CJP leaders to discuss the NEET examination paper leak. Both sides agreed to meet again on Saturday for further discussions. The government is considering compensation and withdrawal of FIRs against students. This follows recent steps like fast-track courts and a secretary replacement.

Private equity firm Bain Capital has agreed to acquire UK-based nutraceutical company Vitabiotics, expanding its presence in the global wellness and supplements market. The deal covers Vitabiotics UK business, Indias Meyer Organics and operations in Africa. The transaction value was not disclosed, but sources said the company was valued between $850 million and $900 million.

African proverb of the day highlights the saying, Anxiety will not let you die of hunger. The proverb explains how worry can encourage people to take action and meet their basic needs. It also reminds people that while concern can support survival, too much anxiety can affect peace of mind, appetite and health. The saying continues to remain relevant because it reflects human behaviour, survival instinct and emotional balance.

Psychology says people who ask others to move a bit and let them sit even if there is not much space in public transport aren't always trying to inconvenience others. Psychology explains that this behavior can reflect social communication, awareness of shared spaces, and the need for fairness. Different psychological theories suggest that politely requesting space often comes from practical thinking, confidence, and cooperation rather than selfish intentions.

Appearing on behalf of the petitioner, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan submitted that a petition had been filed. There is urgency. Police excess is going against students. Something has to be done... the court is standing in between, the senior lawyer submitted. Speaking for the bench, CJI Kant said that the bench will take up the plea on Monday.

In a significant response to the NEET-UG paper leak scandal, the National Testing Agency has dismissed forty-seven officials. To tackle examination fraud, Delhi Police has inaugurated a Special Task Force, tasked with investigating leaks in central government recruitment exams.