The Economic Times

Gujarat's Anti-Terrorist Squad has apprehended eight individuals suspected of having ties to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed. Arrested across Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, the group was allegedly working to establish an active terror network within the state. Authorities have registered a case against them under the UAPA and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, signaling a significant crackdown on potential terror operations.

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of When meeting people, speak only thirty percent of your thoughts. The saying reflects the importance of thoughtful communication, self-restraint, and emotional intelligence rather than speaking impulsively. It suggests that wisdom is not measured by saying everything that comes to mind, but by knowing what to share, what to withhold, and when to speak. By encouraging careful speech and active listening, the proverb reminds us that meaningful co

Orange kittens seem to be everywhere, from family living rooms and college apartments to social media feeds filled with playful feline videos. But their popularity in the United States isn't just another internet trend. It comes from a unique mix of genetics, decades of pop culture, and the way people connect emotionally with pets.

President Xi Jinping has elevated two senior military officers, Zhang Shuguang and Wang Gang, to the rank of general. This move comes amidst China's ongoing anti-corruption drive, which has significantly thinned the ranks of top military brass. The promotions fuel speculation about future leadership changes within the People's Liberation Army, with the current Central Military Commission expected to be reshuffled after the next Communist Party congress in 2027.

China is forging a new economic corridor linking Bangladesh and Myanmar, offering a strategic route to the Bay of Bengal and mirroring the CPEC's impact on India's western flank. This initiative, discussed during Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman's visit to China, aims to enhance transport links and deepen political and military ties, including a '2+2' dialogue.

Aadhaar holders can now conveniently update their email addresses directly through the Aadhaar mobile app, a new free service from UIDAI. This initiative, available for six months, aims to simplify profile management and enhance security. The feature has seen rapid adoption, with hundreds of thousands already utilizing it. Linking an email provides real-time notifications for Aadhaar usage, boosting transparency and offering an extra security layer.

KP Group has appointed Sunil Kumar Maheshwari as Vice-Chairman, bringing his extensive experience to the boards of its three listed companies. Meanwhile, ITC Hotels is expanding its Rajasthan footprint with a new 145-key Welcomhotel in Salasar, a popular pilgrimage destination. This move aims to bolster ITC Hotels' presence across various brands in the state, catering to the significant visitor influx.

A recent heatwave saw over 410 million Europeans endure scorching temperatures above 35C, impacting vast swathes from Spain to Ukraine. This June event surpassed the scale of the 2003 record heatwave, with millions in France, Spain, and Italy experiencing prolonged extreme heat. Several nations, including Germany and Poland, shattered all-time temperature records, while France recorded its hottest nights ever.

A mission is underway to save NASA's Swift Observatory from a fiery plunge. Launched from the Pacific, a specialised spacecraft named Link will rendezvous with the aging telescope, which is rapidly losing altitude due to solar activity. This rescue, costing $30 million, aims to boost Swift's orbit, potentially allowing it to continue its cosmic observations until September.

Meet Bengaluru's Pratitee Bordoloi: Thirteen-year-old Woman FIDE Master Pratitee Bordoloi won silver at the FIDE World Youth Chess Championship 2026 in Italy, finishing as Indias only medallist. A maths prodigy with a shared birthday with Garry Kasparov, she combined sharp calculation, calm preparation and independent thinking to produce an unbeaten run in the Girls Under-18 category.

The DMK has approached the Supreme Court, seeking to prevent TVK leaders, including Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, from making public statements regarding the Karur stampede. The party alleges false accusations and claims ministers involved in the incident are now in the Tamil Nadu cabinet. The plea also seeks CBI action against minister Aadhav Arjuna for alleged interference in the ongoing investigation.

Madhya Pradesh High Court has ordered protection for Additional District and Sessions Judge Tabassum Khan after she received threats following a conviction in a 2022 mob lynching case. Judge Khan sentenced 14 individuals to life imprisonment for a lynching motivated by cow smuggling suspicions. The court deemed the threats serious, impacting judicial independence, and directed police to identify and act against those responsible.

Mumbai and its surrounding districts, including Thane, Palghar, and Raigad, are bracing for intense downpours as the India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Saturday and Sunday. Expect heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in isolated areas, following a week of disrupted normal life due to the monsoon's delayed arrival. Further heavy spells are anticipated early next week.

A special court has granted conditional bail to TMC leader Shakir Ali, husband of former MP Aparupa Poddar, in connection with the 2023 Hooghly Ram Navami rally violence. Ali, a former Rishra municipality councillor, was arrested earlier this week. The court mandated his appearance before the NIA fortnightly and prohibited him from leaving West Bengal without permission until the charge sheet is filed.

Punjab Congress leader Sukhjinder Randhawa met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, highlighting deteriorating law and order, gangsterism, and narco-terrorism in the border state. Randhawa expressed concerns about extortion and the misuse of mobile phones by inmates. This meeting occurs amidst internal party dissent over the state president's retention, with supporters of former CM Charanjit Singh Channi demanding his appointment.

China has voiced concerns over bilateral cooperation that could target third parties, following India and Japan's announcement of landmark initiatives including economic and defense pacts. Beijing emphasized that such partnerships should foster regional understanding and stability, not division. The joint statement also expressed worry over the East and South China Seas, opposing unilateral actions. This comes amid strained Japan-China ties and China's leverage over rare earth minerals.

Punjab BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon has demanded the state government immediately transfer Rs 51,000 to every woman, citing a delay in fulfilling an AAP poll promise. He alleges the 'Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojna', offering Rs 1,000-1,500 monthly, falls short of the original guarantee for 51 months and excludes millions of eligible women.

New Delhi: Legal experts highlighted that the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Amendment) Act 2026 mandates 'debt' and 'default' for NCLT case admission. The amended act introduces phased resolution plan approval, restored CIRP before liquidation, and bars resolution professionals from acting as liquidators. Competition law saw a surge in merger control cases, with the CCI's approval timelines shrinking. The Supreme Court also clarified rules on merger notifications.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced a statewide Ram Raksha protest starting July 5, alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple. He urged citizens to join the agitation and hold the BJP accountable for alleged loot in the name of Hindutva. The campaign begins Sunday with prayers at a Mumbai Hanuman temple.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh-led DAC greenlit defense procurements worth 52,000 crore, bolstering the Army, Navy, and Air Force with advanced capabilities. Key acquisitions include anti-drone systems, missiles, and unmanned warfare technology. The approvals aim to significantly enhance operational readiness against modern aerial and mechanized threats, ensuring a stronger defense posture for India.

New IISc Bengaluru study: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have found that low-frequency ultrasound can selectively kill oral cancer cells while leaving healthy cells largely unharmed. The study, conducted with clinicians at MS Ramaiah Medical College and Hospitals, could help pave the way for less invasive and more targeted treatments for one of Indias most common cancers.

Hundreds of medical coders in Kochi and Kozhikode faced abrupt termination from a US-based healthcare firm, sparking outrage. Employees reported being forced out without notice, prompting intervention from Kerala's Labour Department and local MLA Uma Thomas. The company has agreed to discuss compensation and has put further terminations on hold pending a meeting with the Labour Secretary, aiming to prioritise employee continuation in service.

The Supreme Court has put a hold on a CAG audit of three private power discoms in Delhi, a move initiated by the Delhi government concerning a massive Rs 38,500 crore in accumulated regulatory assets. The court questioned the legality of the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission's (DERC) decision to appoint the CAG, ordering a status quo until further orders.

Social activist Anna Hazare has welcomed the Maharashtra government's decision to halt the implementation of new RTI rules, but is demanding their permanent withdrawal. He has postponed his planned July 5th fast in response to the suspension. Hazare emphasized that the proposed changes, including higher fees and single-subject applications, would weaken citizens' access to information. He warned of further agitation if the rules are not fully scrapped.

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has vehemently denied any electoral or political alliance with the BJP, refuting claims of selling MLAs. SDF spokesperson Yojna Khaling Rai stated these allegations are false and politically motivated, emphasizing the party's independent identity. The SDF defended its president's remark about Sikkim not becoming another Manipur as a warning against instability, while accusing the ruling SKM of growing proximity to the BJP.

Forecasters are in strong agreement that a powerful El Nio is rapidly developing, according to the United Nations weather agency. El Nio conditions have already appeared in the Equatorial Pacific. This significant development, highlighted by a scientist at the World Meteorological Organization, signals a potentially impactful shift in global weather patterns over the next few months.

Humans are wired to defend their group, not initiate conflict, a study reveals. This 'coalitional psychology' means we're more motivated to protect our community than to attack others. This instinct explains why perceived threats unite people and how leaders frame issues to gain support. Understanding this natural inclination to protect what we value is key to fostering cooperation and managing disputes responsibly.

Maharashtra has enacted a new bill to regulate all healthcare facilities, replacing an outdated law. The Maharashtra Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Bill aims to boost transparency and accountability by establishing a state council to set minimum standards and oversee registration. Patients will gain clearer rights, including access to information on their condition and treatment costs. The legislation also mandates prominent display of service rates and introduces penaltie

E-rickshaw drivers in Delhi are living in fear as a smartphone app allegedly shuts down their vehicles mid-road, risking fatal accidents. Videos show individuals remotely disabling compatible lithium-ion battery e-rickshaws, prompting a government probe. Drivers report financial losses and constant stress, fearing collisions in heavy traffic. The app reportedly allows unauthorized control, creating dangerous situations for passengers and drivers alike.

Indian MSMEs are struggling with the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, facing compliance hurdles due to a lack of financial and technical resources. Experts urge government intervention, technology transfer, and the development of alternative export markets to protect these smaller businesses. The current carbon accounting framework is seen as inequitable, disproportionately impacting developing economies and threatening the competitiveness of domestic steel and aluminium sectors.

A powerful El Nio event is officially underway, with the World Meteorological Organization warning of intensified global weather extremes. Expect increased risks of heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall across continents. India, Australia, and parts of Africa are forecast to receive less rainfall, potentially impacting agriculture and water resources. Europe may see a north-south divide in precipitation. Scientists are closely monitoring warmer ocean temperatures worldwide.

Russian drivers are flocking to Chinese electric vehicles amid severe fuel shortages caused by escalating Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure. A Moscow dealership reports a dramatic surge in EV sales, moving from a few per month to several daily. While Russia's vastness and limited charging infrastructure remain hurdles, the current fuel crisis is accelerating EV adoption, with Chinese brands dominating the market.

Maharashtra has banned the sale of 'Sting' energy drink and similar intoxicating substances within 500 meters of schools. This decision follows concerns about ingredients unsuitable for children and their impact on students. The Food and Drug Administration will enforce this restriction, and schools will conduct awareness programs on the health risks of energy drinks. The government aims to strengthen these measures and ensure effective implementation.

The Indian challenge at the Canada Open concluded today as both Tanya Hemnath and Aakarshi Kashyap were eliminated in the women's singles second round. Hemnath succumbed to Japan's Riko Gunji in straight games, while Kashyap fought hard but ultimately lost to USA's Beiwen Zhang in a three-game thriller. Their defeats mark the end of India's campaign at the Super 300 tournament.

The Calcutta High Court has ordered Trinamool Congress leaders Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee to submit affidavits in response to a contempt petition. The petition alleges that the party violated a 2018 court order by completely blocking arterial roads during their July 21, 2025, Martyrs' Day rally. The court previously mandated that public gatherings must not obstruct traffic, especially for emergency vehicles. The next hearing is scheduled for August 17.

Kerala's transport minister announced a plan to identify routes where KSRTC and private buses operate concurrently, following concerns from private operators about the 'Priyadarshini' free travel scheme for women. While not all private buses are affected, the government will pinpoint overlapping services causing financial strain. Protests are permitted, and waste on KSRTC land will be cleared.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust operates autonomously, with no accountability to the Centre or Uttar Pradesh government, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. This independent status was confirmed by the CIC, ruling the trust outside the RTI Act's purview. Ahead of a crucial July 6 meeting, the trust's governance and the future of key officials amid a donation controversy are under scrutiny.

Europe is grappling with the aftermath of a severe June heatwave, which has resulted in an estimated 3,700 excess deaths across France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Authorities caution these figures are preliminary. The extreme temperatures, linked to climate change, overwhelmed healthcare systems and caused widespread disruption. France alone reported over 2,000 excess deaths, with a significant rise in fatalities among those over 45.

Canada's wildlife boasts a surprising new champion: the Western toad. Researchers have identified a population in Alberta as Canada's most genetically distinct animal, a unique trait developed through long-term isolation. This discovery highlights the importance of protecting this species, particularly the Alberta group, for its significant contribution to the toad's overall genetic diversity and offers crucial insights for future conservation efforts.

GoDaddy warns India's crackdown on fake websites could endanger legitimate businesses globally. New court orders mandate releasing buyer details and prohibiting brand name variations, sparking a legal challenge. Experts fear this could expose individuals to harassment and force companies to exit India, impacting internet governance worldwide. The dispute highlights India's growing concern over online fraud.

The Gauhati High Court has upheld a foreigners tribunal's declaration against Aminul Hoque, a day labourer from Guwahati, after finding that his 15 submitted documents failed to establish an unbroken family chain across voter lists of three villages. The court also held that his father's oral testimony was insufficient without corroborating documentary evidence.

NATO leaders convene in Ankara facing critical challenges: maintaining US commitment amid Trump's skepticism, Europe increasing its security role, and boosting defense spending. The alliance grapples with ramping up production to meet demand, particularly for Ukraine, while Russia remains a persistent threat. Balancing these priorities and ensuring sustained support for Kyiv will be key.

On Friday, a heart-wrenching accident occurred in southwestern Pakistan when an overburdened bus veered off the highway and tumbled into a treacherous gorge. This horrifying event resulted in the loss of 40 lives and left eight individuals injured. It was reported that the bus picked up passengers from a previously disabled vehicle, amplifying its dangerous load.

Concerns over e-rickshaws being remotely disabled via a Chinese app, BAT-BMS, have prompted government action. IT Secretary S Krishnan confirmed two such applications were identified and promptly removed from app stores. He emphasized app stores' responsibility for due diligence and stated the government will engage with them to prevent the availability of potentially hazardous apps, addressing widespread cybersecurity worries.

Andhra Pradesh's ruling YSRCP has requested the Election Commission to extend the electoral roll revision by a month, alleging significant flaws in form distribution and digitisation. The party claims forms were marked as delivered without reaching voters in many areas, and digital uploads are inconsistent. They highlighted difficulties in remote regions and urged for verification of alleged false reporting to ensure a fair revision process.