The Economic Times

WhatsApp is rolling out a new username feature, allowing users to connect without sharing phone numbers. The company has released an FAQ addressing concerns about impersonation and scams, following a government notice. Usernames are optional, and a username key adds an extra layer of security. Well-known names are being reserved for legitimate owners, with WhatsApp monitoring for misuse.

India is accelerating plans to divest stakes in major state-owned entities, including the nation's largest insurer, Life Insurance Corp., to boost public finances. Hindustan Zinc and several banks are also slated for stake sales. Officials are actively engaging with investment bankers to gauge market appetite and finalize offerings, aiming to raise significant funds to support the government's fiscal goals.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, marking her first official visit to India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present as marching contingents honored the visiting leader. The two prime ministers are set to hold bilateral talks to bolster cooperation in trade, investment, and defense. This visit is seen as a significant step in strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Single injection for osteoarthritis: A research team from the University of Colorado Boulder, CU Anschutz, and Colorado State University has developed two new therapies that showed reversal of osteoarthritis in animal studies within four to eight weeks. The project, funded under a federal programme with up to $33.5 million, has now advanced to its second phase.

Indian Naval Ships Udaygiri, Shakti, and Kavaratti concluded a successful operational deployment in Southeast Asia, reinforcing India's maritime partnerships. The fleet, led by Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, visited Singapore and participated in a joint naval drill with the Royal Thai Navy. These engagements underscore India's commitment to regional maritime security and its Act East Policy, fostering stronger ties with ASEAN nations.

Meghalaya's government has approached the Supreme Court challenging the High Court's decision to grant bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of murdering her husband during their 2025 honeymoon in the state. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued the bail was granted based on a minor error in supplying arrest documents, raising concerns about the accused absconding. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the plea urgently.

Just 79 days after its inauguration, the Rs 12,000 crore Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is reportedly riddled with large potholes, sparking outrage online. Videos of the damaged road have gone viral, with users questioning construction quality. The Congress has alleged widespread corruption in infrastructure projects under the current government, citing this as a prime example of deteriorating public assets.

UNESCO has warned Pakistan to reverse econstruction work at Taxila's historical sites, Mohra Moradu and Sirkap, or risk being placed on the UN agency's danger list. Concerns were raised about interventions undermining the sites' integrity, with new masonry replacing ancient walls and heights being altered. Pakistan's archaeology department insists the work is conservation, not reconstruction, aimed at stabilization and preservation.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized Japan's crucial role in India's Act East Policy, highlighting joint efforts for a free and open Indo-Pacific alongside the US. India is actively addressing trade regulations with Japan to boost exports during Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit, which focuses on enhancing trade, investment, and strategic ties. This collaboration builds on Japan's prior commitment to invest billions in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart will inaugurate Maruti Suzuki's expansive new manufacturing facility in Kharkhoda, Haryana today. This state-of-the-art plant, a significant step in the 'Make in India' initiative, boasts advanced technology, a focus on sustainability with 100% renewable energy and water recycling, and aims to boost annual production significantly, creating thousands of jobs.

US President Donald Trump has shared an AI-generated video on Truth Social, depicting himself as a doctor offering a 'treatment plan' for TDS. The clip features fictional patients crediting his advice for their recovery. The video concludes with Trump recommending avoiding 'fake news,' praying, and enjoying a Diet Coke for a remarkable life improvement.

Visakhapatnam is emerging as India's next AI infrastructure hub, attracting massive investments from tech giants like Google and Reliance. The city's strategic coastal location, coupled with potential for clean energy and robust industrial capabilities, makes it ideal for data centers and subsea cables, according to experts. This development, analysts say, promises to boost India's digital resilience and AI capabilities, positioning the nation for significant growth in the global tech landscape.

Long-time Tata Group associate Mehli K. Mistry has stepped down as a director from Ratan Tata's personal investment firm, RNT Associates. Mistry, who worked closely with the former Tata Sons chairman and is an executor of his will, cited other commitments for his departure. RNT Associates, established in 2009, has notably invested in prominent Indian startups like Ola Electric and Urban Company.

Delhi finally welcomed the Southwest Monsoon on Thursday, five days past its usual arrival. This marks the first July monsoon since 2021, with the India Meteorological Department predicting thunderstorms and rain across the city. Residents can expect generally cloudy skies as the monsoon makes its presence felt, offering a much-needed respite.

Ayodhya police have recorded the statement of Champat Rai, former general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, as part of the probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram temple donations. Rai had previously offered to resign, taking moral responsibility for the controversy. The investigation is ongoing, with police seeking details and documents related to the suspected fraud. The controversy erupted after allegations of donation mismanagement surfaced publicly.

The Amarnath Yatra 2026 is set for a 57-day run from July 3 to August 28, expecting lakhs of devotees. Pilgrims can choose between the shorter Baltal route or the longer Pahalgam trek. Registration requires a Rs 150 fee and a valid health certificate issued after April 8, 2026. Helicopter services are available to Panchtarni, but the final six kilometers to the cave shrine must be covered on foot.

Delhi Police apprehended a Ghaziabad man, Nishant Tyagi, in connection with hoax bomb threat emails sent to prominent organisations like NIA, ISRO, and DRDO, as well as an Air India flight. The 36-year-old has a history of mental illness since 2008. Authorities confirmed the threats were false after thorough security checks. The investigation into his motive is ongoing.

Horrific child abuse allegations have surfaced at Capgemini's Bengaluru daycare, with videos reportedly showing toddlers subjected to cruel treatment. Five workers are booked under the Juvenile Justice Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The alleged abuse includes locking children in toilets and forcing them into washing machines. Capgemini is cooperating with authorities and temporarily closing the facility as investigations continue.

Monsoon brings humidity, sweat, and sticky skin, and suddenly your regular cleansing routine stops feeling like enough. The question most people quietly wonder about: does it actually matter whether you use bar soap or a face wash? Turns out, it does, and the difference is bigger than you'd expect.

Samsung Group is set to inject a massive 140 trillion won ($90 billion) into South Korea's central Chungcheong province. This significant investment will bolster the production of display panels, batteries, chips, and related materials. Samsung Display and Samsung Electronics are leading the charge with substantial allocations for advanced chip packaging and next-generation battery development, aiming to boost domestic capabilities and talent.

Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party, is set to visit Iran to pay her respects at the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following an invitation from his office. This invitation underscores the long-standing and strategic relationship between Iran and India. Mufti regards this as a significant honor and views it as a unique opportunity to participate in the solemn state funeral ceremonies in Tehran.

Apple is gearing up for its September launch, with reports suggesting the debut of the highly anticipated iPhone Ultra, its first foldable device. Alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, the Ultra is expected to command a premium price, potentially exceeding Rs 2 lakh in India. Details also hint at a powerful A20 chip and advanced camera features for these new models.

R Praggnanandhaa has started strong at the Zagreb Grand Chess Tour, securing joint second place after the opening day. He defeated top seed Vincent Keymer and held draws against formidable opponents Maxime Vachier-Lagrave and World Champion D Gukesh. Alireza Firouzja leads the tournament.

He added a report by the Japanese newspaper The Yomiuri Shimbun, which noted that these initiatives, valued at approximately 2 trillion yen on the Japanese side, aim to deepen their footprint in India's expanding market.

Iran is struggling to sell its growing oil stockpile at sea as a US deadline looms, potentially costing Tehran vital revenue and weakening its negotiating position. Weak demand from China, its primary buyer, and lingering sanctions concerns are major hurdles. While some oil has been discharged in China, India remains cautious, awaiting payment clarity and a full sanctions lift. Attractive pricing could still revive Asian interest.

India has strongly urged the global community to unite against terrorism, emphasizing that a terrorist is a terrorist and no grievance can justify such acts. Speaking at the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni called for an end to double standards and accountability for those involved in terror.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the inaugural batch of over 4800 pilgrims for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra from Jammu. The 57-day pilgrimage, commencing July 3rd from Pahalgam and Baltal routes, will conclude on August 28th. Extensive arrangements have been made for devotees undertaking this sacred journey to witness the naturally formed ice Shivling.

The U.S. nuclear regulator is proposing to replace the 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable' (ALARA) radiation protection standard with objective dose limits. Proponents claim this will bring clarity and speed up new reactor development, while critics argue it could allow higher radiation exposure for workers and the public to cut industry costs, potentially increasing cancer risks.

Iran has sharply criticized a US-led security summit in Bahrain, asserting that the Strait of Hormuz falls under Tehran's command, not American authority. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi dismissed the summit's legitimacy, stating that regional security must be managed by neighboring states without foreign military intervention. The meeting, attended by military leaders from twelve nations, aimed to ensure the free flow of commerce through the vital waterway.

Chennai girl studies on the footpath beside her mother's flower stall in Tambaram. The young girl's unwavering focus on her studies beside her mother's flower stall has ignited national conversation. The viral video has sparked conversation nationwide about parenting, hard work, grit and determination amid tough times.

New York City braces for a packed July 4th weekend with major events including a massive fireworks display, naval ship celebrations, and a World Cup match. Thousands of NYPD officers will be on duty, with enhanced security measures at waterfronts and Penn Station. Police are also prepared for potential crowds surrounding a rumored celebrity wedding at Madison Square Garden, though no specific threats have been identified.

Odisha's government has approved a massive Rs 2,000 crore deep sea fishing mission to establish the state as a premier marine export hub. This plan, spanning a decade, aims to boost fish production by 2 lakh metric tonnes annually, create over 50,000 jobs, and significantly increase seafood exports. The initiative will modernize infrastructure and strengthen fishing communities, fostering blue economy growth.

Actor Hugh Jackman's powerful quote underscores the idea that significant change often requires personal sacrifice, be it time, comfort, or energy. Jackman's words emphasize that purpose imbues hardship with meaning, urging action beyond mere belief and revealing that true generosity extends beyond finances, fostering personal purpose through selfless contribution.

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan's Knight Riders Group has inaugurated a cutting-edge cricket stadium in Los Angeles, a significant development for the sport in the US. This world-class venue will host matches during the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Khan expressed his joy, calling it the realization of a long-held dream and a new home for the LA Knight Riders, ready for its first competitive match.

India has reaffirmed its commitment to Venezuela through Operation Amistad, offering support following devastating twin earthquakes. While rescue efforts continue amidst a grim casualty count, with thousands feared dead and a critical shortage of resources like gasoline hindering operations, Indian medical teams are actively engaged in relief work. The nation stands in solidarity during this challenging period.

FIFA 2026: Mexico ended a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout win, beating Ecuador 2-0. England narrowly escaped an upset, with Harry Kane's brace securing a 2-1 victory over DR Congo. Belgium staged a dramatic comeback, overcoming a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time. The United States comfortably advanced, defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0.

A coalition of 117 prominent citizens from India and Pakistan has penned an open letter to their respective Prime Ministers, urging an immediate restoration of peace, normalcy, and bilateral communication. The group, comprising social activists and intellectuals, aims to break the diplomatic deadlock by fostering dialogue and resuming trade.

Karnataka Police have filed a case against five daycare workers at Capgemini's on-campus creche in Bengaluru. Allegations of physical assault, intimidation, and cruelty against employees' children have surfaced. The IT giant has stated its commitment to employee well-being and is fully cooperating with authorities. As a precautionary step, the daycare facility has been temporarily shut down.

Nayara Energy, India's largest private fuel retailer, has slashed petrol prices by Rs 5 and diesel by Rs 3 per litre nationwide. This marks the first retail price cut in over two years, following a dip in global crude oil costs. While Nayara reversed its earlier March hike, state-run oil companies like IOC, BPCL, and HPCL have maintained their current rates, leaving consumers with differing prices across the country.

The United States on Wednesday signed an agreement to build a new embassy compound in Jerusalem, a move that Israel said reflected the unbreakable alliance between the countries. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the agreement to build Washington's permanent embassy in Jerusalem underscored the unbreakable alliance between the two countries.