The Times of India

Food Corporation of India has strengthened rules for subsidized rice distribution. Distilleries are now directly accountable for any misuse of this grain. The Food Corporation of India will file criminal cases for diversion or misuse. This move aims to prevent diversion and improve oversight of the ethanol supply chain. New operational guidelines ensure strict utilization of rice for ethanol production.

Anil Menon, an Indian-American astronaut, begins his first space mission. He will spend eight months aboard the International Space Station. Menon will research microgravity's physiological impacts and test new medical technologies. His Indian heritage stems from his father who emigrated from India. He previously supported polio immunisation programmes in India.

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has come to the defense of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway project, while also taking aim at critics with disdainful comments. In the assembly, he referred to Raj Thackeray as nothing more than a mimicry artist, cautioning that spreading misinformation tarnishes the reputation of Maharashtra as a whole. His remarks have sparked backlash from opposition leaders, who are quick to challenge his statements.

The Home Affairs Ministry issued fresh directions to all state governments. These directions reiterate existing rules for singing the National Anthem and National Song. Authorities must ensure strict compliance with the correct script and pronunciation. The National Song is to be sung before the National Anthem when both are performed. This ensures adherence to protocols established for national symbols.

Prashant Kishor stated the BJP faces challenges in the Bankipur bypoll. The original candidate withdrew citing family reasons, and a new one was named. Kishor believes this shows no constituency is a permanent stronghold. He also suggested BJP supporters desire a different leader for Bihar. The Bankipur by-election is scheduled for July 30.

In a surprising turn of events, a Bharatiya Janata Party candidate has stepped down from the Bankipur bypoll, citing family reasons. The party has swiftly chosen Neeraj Kumar Sinha as the new candidate. This change paves the way for Prashant Kishor's highly anticipated first appearance in the electoral arena, as he prepares to contest against the BJP's stronghold in this area.

Assa Doron is a professor of Anthropology and South Asia at Australian National University. He is the author and co-author of several books, including Life on the Ganga, The Great Indian Phone Book, and Waste of a Nation. Alex Broom is academic director at Australian Research Council, professor of Sociology, and director of the Sydney Centre for Healthy Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Sydney. He is the author of several books on the social dynamics of health, illness

Recent reports highlight heightened concerns over the Yarlung Tsangpo mega dam in China, amidst fears of geological faults and potential earthquakes. Meanwhile, in Assam, the government is taking a firm stance against polygamy by planning to terminate the employment of offenders and restrict access to welfare benefits. Additionally, the UK has recognized significant technology companies as essential third parties for cloud services.

The opposition parties are grappling with significant turmoil following vital splits that have diminished their strength in Parliament. Recent shifts have bolstered the ruling NDA coalition's standing. As the Monsoon session approaches, the potential reintroduction of a Constitution Amendment Bill looms. Internal fractures within several regional parties could further compromise the opposition's capacity to impede crucial legislation.

In a heartfelt gesture, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay visited families affected by the Karur stampede disaster. He distributed job appointment orders to eligible dependants as part of rehabilitation efforts, visibly moved by their immense sorrow. This visit coincided with the High Court's evaluation of the government's permanent job appointment policies. Furthermore, Vijay criticized the opposition DMK for allegedly exploiting the tragedy for political gain.

India's UDAN scheme aims to make flying affordable for all citizens. The initial phase connected many smaller cities but faced sustainability challenges. A modified UDAN scheme now focuses on airport development and broader ecosystem support. This new phase includes increased financial aid and indigenous aircraft integration. The government hopes this will create a self-sustaining regional aviation network.

A Kerala medical student was murdered in Uzbekistan by a fellow student. The victim allegedly faced repeated demands to convert her religion before her death. Uzbek authorities have arrested the accused student in connection with the ongoing investigation. Indian authorities are assisting the victim's family and liaising with Uzbek officials. A second post-mortem was conducted in Kerala after the body's repatriation.

Assam's government proposed barring polygamous individuals from state welfare schemes. Government employees practicing polygamy may face dismissal from their service. The state also plans to amend existing rules for disciplinary actions. This initiative aims to promote women's empowerment and gender justice. The government will resume its welfare schemes from August onwards.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland for a historic two-day visit. He was welcomed by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the airport. Discussions will focus on trade, commerce, and defence cooperation between the nations. This visit follows the recent signing of a Free Trade Agreement in April. Modi will also engage with the Indian diaspora and prominent personalities.

The Supreme Court will hear petitions on July 13 concerning alleged Ram temple donation embezzlement. Three petitions seek a court-monitored CBI probe into financial irregularities. Petitioners also demand a forensic audit of the Trust's entire finances. An investigation is underway in Uttar Pradesh, with eight accused arrested. Temple trust members express faith in the ongoing investigation and administration.

The Delhi High Court upheld actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in multiple cheque bounce cases. The court sentenced the actor to three months imprisonment for these offenses. This judgment dismissed petitions challenging the trial court's earlier decision. Yadav had previously paid approximately Rs 4.25 crore to the complainant company. He is also facing a separate loan dispute case with a large outstanding amount.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the panel's two-day meeting in Goa, Chaudhary said consultations held across the country had received overwhelming support from civil society stakeholders for the proposal. He also cited estimates suggesting that frequent elections cost the Indian economy nearly Rs 7 lakh crore. The committee held discussions on the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, beginning its Goa visit with an interaction involving chief minister Pramod Sawant and members of

Sonam Wangchuk stated his hunger stabilized after thirteen days of fasting at Jantar Mantar. He asserted his constitutional right to peaceful protest should not be violated by authorities. Wangchuk supports students demanding accountability for examination irregularities and pending Ladakh issues. He believes the education minister's resignation could restore youth confidence politically. The protest continues with a planned march to Parliament on July 20.

The panel examined issues relating to Internal control and quality assurance in execution of MES contracts based on Chapter II of CAG Report No. 1 of 2026. It also reviewed findings under Abandonment of buildings constructed costing Rs. 166.16 crore due to substandard construction and delay in fixing of responsibility contained in Paragraph 3.3 of CAG Report No. 28 of 2025.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused opposition parties of appeasement politics. He alleged they disrespected Hindu faith by allowing prayers at Hanumangarhi temple. Adityanath stated these parties opposed Ayodhya's development and Ram temple construction. He highlighted the current government's role in building the grand Ram temple. The chief minister also mentioned opposition to Ayodhya's transformation and new projects.

India's food safety regulator has taken action against alcohol manufacturers by issuing notices regarding the use of unauthorized flavors in their drinks. Additionally, misleading age claims on product packaging are being investigated. Companies are required to justify why regulatory action shouldn't be enforced against them. Meetings with industry associations and FSSAI are scheduled for next week to discuss these pressing issues.

India's drug regulator has announced a proposal to limit the use of identical brand names for various medications, aiming to improve patient safety and reduce consumer confusion. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is currently seeking public feedback on this initiative, which may require pharmaceutical companies to rethink their branding approaches for different products, ensuring brand names appropriately reflect the unique characteristics of each medication.

Over 800 Medical Colleges Issued Conditional Renewal LettersMedical colleges receive conditional renewal letters for MBBS seats from the National Medical Commission. Institutions must rectify deficiencies within forty-five days before follow-up evaluations occur. The regulator replaces routine annual inspections with surprise assessments for continuous oversight. This new mechanism aims to ensure colleges maintain standards throughout the academic year. Non-compliance may lead to reduced student

Seventy medical colleges and hospitals have not linked their CCTV systems with the National Medical Commission's control center. Prominent Delhi institutions are among those failing to comply with mandatory regulations. The National Medical Commission has issued repeated directives since 2022 for compliance. These institutions must now immediately connect their surveillance systems for remote monitoring. Failure to comply may result in appropriate regulatory action by the commission.

Addressing the Prawaas 5.0 and Bharat Prawaas Awards event in Gandhinagar, Gadkari said the government's hydrogen initiative was part of a broader push towards cleaner mobility. Our ministry is doing a pilot project on ten routes for hydrogen trials. I am sure the future of the transportation industry is hydrogen, and hydrogen is the fuel of the future, and we are working on that, Gadkari was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Stepping into the MCG evokes two simultaneous emotions for any Indian. First, the thrill of an India-Australia match and second, the realisation that, in both our nations, cricket is not merely a sport but a shared passion. Yet, today, there is no pressure of a 'last-over finish.' Instead, there is only the joy of the game, the warmth of our friendship, and the energy of future champions, PM Modi said.

Petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed E25 is currently undergoing testing. No decision has been made regarding the rollout of this fuel blend. Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari noted ethanol's lower calorific value impacts mileage slightly. He also emphasized offering people choices of alternative fuels regionally. Puri added that past engine damage complaints were attributed to other causes.

Indian patients now have access to a new once-weekly insulin alternative. This drug offers a significant reduction in injections from daily to just 52 days annually. Doctors see this as an expansion of treatment options rather than a complete replacement. The weekly insulin is best suited for specific patients requiring basal insulin replacement. While an important advance, other diabetes treatments are also reducing insulin needs.

Allows Headmistress' Prosecution For Not Informing Cops Of Rape Plaint

Intense rainfall caused a landslide near Himkoti on the new pilgrimage track. This incident prompted the temporary suspension of the battery car service on the route. The old yatra route remained unaffected, and devotees continued their journey on the traditional path. Shrine board authorities are working to clear the debris and monitor the area. Yatris are advised to follow official advisories and check travel updates.

The National Conference has invited various political parties for a protest. This demonstration is scheduled for July 20 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The protest aims to demand the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. Invitations have been extended to leaders from across the political spectrum. The event coincides with the opening day of Parliament's monsoon session.

Army chief General Dhiraj Seth visited forward areas along the Line of Control. He reviewed the region's security situation and counter-infiltration grid. General Seth also assessed operational preparedness and combat readiness of troops. He interacted with soldiers deployed at forward posts to boost morale. The visit occurred amid heightened security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.