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Mumbai: In one of Maharashtra's biggest food safety crackdowns targeting high-profile establishments, the state's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the FSSAI food business licences of five of Mumbai's most prestigious clubs after surprise inspections uncovered widespread hygiene and food safety violations.The action follows inspections conducted between July 24 and July 27 under the supervision of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who has intensified enforcement against food safety violations across Maharashtra. Officials said the violations were serious and systemic, posing a potential public health risk.Five clubs whose FSSAI food licences have been suspended:<ol><li>Cricket Club of India (CCI)</li><li>MIG Cricket Club</li><li>Willingdon Sports Club</li><li>RK Juhu Gymkhana</li><li>Aparna Juhu Gymkhana</li></ol>The clubs have been directed to halt food operations until all deficiencies are rectified and compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is verified by the FDA.<h2>Cockroaches, rotten food and unhygienic kitchens</h2>According to the FDA, inspectors found multiple violations across kitchens, storage facilities and food preparation areas.At the Cricket Club of India (CCI), officials found live cockroach and fly infestations in food preparation and waste disposal areas, rotten vegetables, overripe mushrooms and expired food items. Water was reportedly dripping onto stored food inside cold storage, while clogged drains, grease accumulation and stagnant water were found near the kitchen. Inspectors also flagged the absence of segregation between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food preparation, poor food labelling practices, failure to follow First-In-First-Out (FIFO) and First-Expired-First-Out (FEFO) storage protocols, and unhygienic utensils and cutting boards placed directly on the floor.At MIG Cricket Club, the FDA found an unauthorised caterer operating without a valid FSSAI licence. Officials also reported cockroach infestation, cobwebs inside the kitchen, improper storage of raw and cooked food, absence of periodic food and water testing, lack of mandatory health records for food handlers and failure to notify authorities about management-related changes.At Willingdon Sports Club, RK Juhu Gymkhana and Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, inspectors found poor pest control measures, rusted and corroded food-processing equipment, unhygienic kitchens, improper storage of food ingredients and several lapses in food safety documentation and hygiene compliance.<h2>Mumbai's oldest and most prestigious clubs</h2>The action is significant because it targets institutions that have long been considered among Mumbai's most exclusive sporting and social clubs.Founded in 1933, the Cricket Club of India is one of India's most iconic cricket institutions and the custodian of the historic Brabourne Stadium, which has hosted numerous international cricket matches.Willingdon Sports Club, established in 1918, is among Mumbai's oldest elite recreational clubs, known for tennis, squash, swimming and other sporting facilities.Founded in 1969, MIG Cricket Club has played a major role in Mumbai's cricketing ecosystem and has produced several first-class and international cricketers.RK Juhu Gymkhana and Aparna Juhu Gymkhana are well-known private clubs in Mumbai's western suburbs, catering to thousands of members through sports, dining and social events.<h2>Wider crackdown continues</h2>The inspection drive covered seven food establishments across Mumbai. Besides suspending the licences of the five clubs, the FDA also issued a Stop Business Notice to Goregaon Sports Club for allegedly operating its food business without a valid FSSAI licence, while another establishment was served with an improvement notice.The crackdown follows a series of high-profile enforcement actions by the Maharashtra FDA against restaurants, clubs and food businesses across the state. Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has repeatedly stated that no establishment—regardless of its reputation or clientele—will be exempt from food safety regulations.The suspended clubs will be allowed to resume food operations only after rectifying all deficiencies and obtaining clearance from the FDA.&nbsp;

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has suspended the FSSAI food business licences of five prominent Mumbai clubs, including the Cricket Club of India and Willingdon Sports Club, after surprise inspections uncovered serious hygiene violations.

Mumbai: In one of Maharashtra's biggest food safety crackdowns targeting high-profile establishments, the state's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the FSSAI food business licences of five of Mumbai's most prestigious clubs after surprise inspections uncovered widespread hygiene and food safety violations. The action follows inspections conducted between July 24 and July 27 under the supervision of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who has intensified enforcement against food safety violations across Maharashtra. Officials said the violations were serious and systemic, posing a potential public health risk. Five clubs whose FSSAI food licences have been suspended: Cricket Club of India (CCI) MIG Cricket Club Willingdon Sports Club RK Juhu Gymkhana Aparna Juhu Gymkhana The clubs have been directed to halt food operations until all deficiencies are rectified and compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is verified by the FDA. Cockroaches, rotten food and unhygienic kitchens According to the FDA, inspectors found multiple violations across kitchens, storage facilities and food preparation areas. At the Cricket Club of India (CCI), officials found live cockroach and fly infestations in food preparation and waste disposal areas, rotten vegetables, overripe mushrooms and expired food items. Water was reportedly dripping onto stored food inside cold storage, while clogged drains, grease accumulation and stagnant water were found near the kitchen. Inspectors also flagged the absence of segregation between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food preparation, poor food labelling practices, failure to follow First-In-First-Out (FIFO) and First-Expired-First-Out (FEFO) storage protocols, and unhygienic utensils and cutting boards placed directly on the floor. At MIG Cricket Club, the FDA found an unauthorised caterer operating without a valid FSSAI licence. Officials also reported cockroach infestation, cobwebs inside the kitchen, improper storage of raw and cooked food, absence of periodic food and water testing, lack of mandatory health records for food handlers and failure to notify authorities about management-related changes. At Willingdon Sports Club, RK Juhu Gymkhana and Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, inspectors found poor pest control measures, rusted and corroded food-processing equipment, unhygienic kitchens, improper storage of food ingredients and several lapses in food safety documentation and hygiene compliance. Mumbai's oldest and most prestigious clubs The action is significant because it targets institutions that have long been considered among Mumbai's most exclusive sporting and social clubs. Founded in 1933, the Cricket Club of India is one of India's most iconic cricket institutions and the custodian of the historic Brabourne Stadium, which has hosted numerous international cricket matches. Willingdon Sports Club, established in 1918, is among Mumbai's oldest elite recreational clubs, known for tennis, squash, swimming and other sporting facilities. Founded in 1969, MIG Cricket Club has played a major role in Mumbai's cricketing ecosystem and has produced several first-class and international cricketers. RK Juhu Gymkhana and Aparna Juhu Gymkhana are well-known private clubs in Mumbai's western suburbs, catering to thousands of members through sports, dining and social events. Wider crackdown continues The inspection drive covered seven food establishments across Mumbai. Besides suspending the licences of the five clubs, the FDA also issued a Stop Business Notice to Goregaon Sports Club for allegedly operating its food business without a valid FSSAI licence, while another establishment was served with an improvement notice. The crackdown follows a series of high-profile enforcement actions by the Maharashtra FDA against restaurants, clubs and food businesses across the state. Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has repeatedly stated that no establishment—regardless of its reputation or clientele—will be exempt from food safety regulations. The suspended clubs will be allowed to resume food operations only after rectifying all deficiencies and obtaining clearance from the FDA.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has suspended the FSSAI food business licences of five prominent Mumbai clubs, including the Cricket Club of India and Willingdon Sports Club, after surprise inspections uncovered serious hygiene violations.

Mumbai's elite clubs under scanner: FDA suspends food licences of five iconic clubs over serious hygiene violations

With just two days left before the July 31 income tax return (ITR) deadline, many taxpayers are still stuck on one question: Should you file under the old tax regime or the new one? It's a decision that can directly affect how much tax you pay, and unlike previous years, the answer isn't the same for everyone. With the July 31 deadline fast approaching, taking a few extra minutes to compare both regimes could save you money and prevent an expensive filing mistake.Notably, the new tax regime is now the default option. But that doesn't automatically mean it's the better choice. Here's a last-minute guide to help you decide before you hit "Submit".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-income-tax-return-2026-filing-itr-this-year-here-s-how-ai-could-save-or-sink-your-return-1783653826947">India Income Tax Return 2026: Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return</a><h2>New regime vs old regime: The biggest differences</h2>The choice boils down to a simple trade-off.The old tax regime lets you reduce your taxable income by claiming deductions and exemptions. These include popular benefits such as Section 80C investments, health insurance under Section 80D, home loan interest, HRA and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA).The new tax regime, on the other hand, offers lower tax rates but removes most of these exemptions and deductions.So the question isn't which regime has lower tax rates. It's whether your deductions are large enough to make the old regime worthwhile.<h2>The old regime may work better for you if...</h2>You could save more tax under the old regime if you:<ul><li>Claim the full Section 80C deduction through EPF, PPF, ELSS or life insurance</li><li>Pay significant health insurance premiums</li><li>Receive House Rent Allowance (HRA)</li><li>Have a home loan with substantial interest payments</li><li>Regularly claim deductions under multiple sections of the Income Tax Act</li></ul>For many salaried employees who maximise these benefits every year, the old regime can still result in a lower tax bill.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/itr-last-date-2026-what-happens-if-you-miss-deadline-know-about-late-fees-interest-delayed-refunds-1785137854083">ITR last date 2026: What happens if you miss deadline?</a><h2>The new regime may suit you if...</h2>The new regime is often the simpler choice if you:<ul><li>Don't claim many deductions</li><li>Have recently started working</li><li>Don't have a home loan</li><li>Live in your own house or don't receive HRA</li><li>Prefer straightforward tax filing without maintaining investment proofs</li></ul>Many young professionals fall into this category, making the new regime financially attractive as well as easier to manage.<h2>Can't I just use the same tax regime I used last year?</h2>One of the biggest mistakes taxpayers make is assuming the same regime that worked last year will also work this year. A salary hike, a new home loan, changes in investments, or even switching jobs can alter the calculation significantly.If your employer already deducted TDS under one regime, don't panic. While filing your return, you can still choose the regime you're eligible for, subject to the applicable tax rules.<h2>A few things to check before filing</h2>Before submitting your ITR, make sure you have:<ul><li>Verified your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS</li><li>Checked that salary, bank interest and capital gains are correctly reflected</li><li>Claimed all eligible deductions, if opting for the old regime</li><li>Selected the correct tax regime before filing</li><li>E-verified your return after submission</li></ul><h2>The bottom line</h2>There's no universal winner in the old-versus-new tax debate. To sum it up, if you've spent the year investing, paying insurance premiums or servicing a home loan, the old regime may still leave you with a lower tax outgo. If you have few deductions and want a hassle-free filing experience, the new regime could be the better option.

With the July 31 income tax return deadline approaching, taxpayers need to decide whether to file under the old or new tax regime. Here's a last-minute comparison before you submit your 2026 ITR.

With just two days left before the July 31 income tax return (ITR) deadline, many taxpayers are still stuck on one question: Should you file under the old tax regime or the new one? It's a decision that can directly affect how much tax you pay, and unlike previous years, the answer isn't the same for everyone. With the July 31 deadline fast approaching, taking a few extra minutes to compare both regimes could save you money and prevent an expensive filing mistake. Notably, the new tax regime is now the default option. But that doesn't automatically mean it's the better choice. Here's a last-minute guide to help you decide before you hit "Submit". Also read | India Income Tax Return 2026: Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return New regime vs old regime: The biggest differences The choice boils down to a simple trade-off. The old tax regime lets you reduce your taxable income by claiming deductions and exemptions. These include popular benefits such as Section 80C investments, health insurance under Section 80D, home loan interest, HRA and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA). The new tax regime, on the other hand, offers lower tax rates but removes most of these exemptions and deductions. So the question isn't which regime has lower tax rates. It's whether your deductions are large enough to make the old regime worthwhile. The old regime may work better for you if... You could save more tax under the old regime if you: Claim the full Section 80C deduction through EPF, PPF, ELSS or life insurance Pay significant health insurance premiums Receive House Rent Allowance (HRA) Have a home loan with substantial interest payments Regularly claim deductions under multiple sections of the Income Tax Act For many salaried employees who maximise these benefits every year, the old regime can still result in a lower tax bill. Also read | ITR last date 2026: What happens if you miss deadline? The new regime may suit you if... The new regime is often the simpler choice if you: Don't claim many deductions Have recently started working Don't have a home loan Live in your own house or don't receive HRA Prefer straightforward tax filing without maintaining investment proofs Many young professionals fall into this category, making the new regime financially attractive as well as easier to manage. Can't I just use the same tax regime I used last year? One of the biggest mistakes taxpayers make is assuming the same regime that worked last year will also work this year. A salary hike, a new home loan, changes in investments, or even switching jobs can alter the calculation significantly. If your employer already deducted TDS under one regime, don't panic. While filing your return, you can still choose the regime you're eligible for, subject to the applicable tax rules. A few things to check before filing Before submitting your ITR, make sure you have: Verified your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS Checked that salary, bank interest and capital gains are correctly reflected Claimed all eligible deductions, if opting for the old regime Selected the correct tax regime before filing E-verified your return after submission The bottom line There's no universal winner in the old-versus-new tax debate. To sum it up, if you've spent the year investing, paying insurance premiums or servicing a home loan, the old regime may still leave you with a lower tax outgo. If you have few deductions and want a hassle-free filing experience, the new regime could be the better option.

With the July 31 income tax return deadline approaching, taxpayers need to decide whether to file under the old or new tax regime. Here's a last-minute comparison before you submit your 2026 ITR.

ITR deadline is July 31. Still haven't filed? Here's how to pick the right tax regime before it's too late

A Qantas flight flew for more than 24 hours from Melbourne to France, setting a record in the skies. The Airbus has been upgraded to undertake the world’s longest nonstop commercial flights starting next year. It flew from Toulouse on July 23 for 19 hours and 13 minutes before landing in Melbourne, Australia, on July 24, its first ultra-long-haul test flight. It then took off from Australia for Toulouse on July 27 and landed on July 28, flying non-stop for 24 hours and 25 minutes.&nbsp;Airbus has developed the A350-1000ULR for Qantas Airways, which plans to start nonstop flights between Sydney and either New York or London in 2027. The airline has ordered a dozen aircraft for its Project Sunrise routes and bookings will open in February.&nbsp;The latest flight to Toulouse covered 12,460 nautical miles in total, Airbus said. Data from flight-tracking service Flightradar24 shows the route stretched across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and North America. Its previous flight from Toulouse covered 17,000km with four Airbus pilots and the five flight-test engineers on board. They monitored the aircraft systems in the cockpit and from the main cabin. The return flight to Toulouse had two Qantas pilots, besides the test flight crew, including three Airbus pilots and five flight-test engineers.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/more-than-75-000-people-watched-a-20-hour-qantas-flight-on-flightradar24-friday-1784906333362">Why more than 75,000 people watched a record Qantas flight on Flightradar24 Friday?</a><h2>Pilot shifts, resting spaces on Qantas Airbus A350-1000ULR&nbsp;</h2>“We have organised a schedule to allow a Qantas pilot to take the controls at specific times,” Xavier Pepin, the Airbus test pilot who captained the return flight, said in a post. Each pilot covered a four-hour shift, and the crew was rotated every two hours. "This staggered approach ensures that when a new pilot joins the cockpit, they overlap for two hours with the outgoing pilot," he said.&nbsp;A twin flight crew rest compartment allows pilots to enter or exit rest areas without disturbing each other. The plane has been fitted with an extra rear centre fuel tank that can carry 20,900 litres, which helps it fly the extra 1,000 nautical miles. This allows it to travel non-stop for nearly 10,000 nautical miles.<h2>3.6 million people tracked return flight to Toulouse</h2>The return flight from Melbourne was tracked by 3.6 million people, according to Flightradar24. This makes it the second-most-tracked flight ever on the flight tracking service. The Royal Air Force flight that carried Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin in 2022 remains the most-tracked flight. More than 75,000 people tracked the initial flight to Melbourne.<h2>Current longest flight</h2>The current record holder for the longest non-stop flight is Singapore Airlines, which connects New York City and Singapore and flies for 18-19 hours. Qantas Airways is hoping to keep the time under 21 hours and 40 minutes. It would carry up to 238 passengers, with more than 40 per cent of seats allocated to First, Business, and Premium Economy tickets.&nbsp;

Qantas Airways return test flight from Melbourne to Toulouse flew for more than 24 hours non-stop, setting a new record. The Airbus has been specifically designed for Qantas. More than 3.6 million people tracked the flight. Services will start in October 2027.

A Qantas flight flew for more than 24 hours from Melbourne to France, setting a record in the skies. The Airbus has been upgraded to undertake the world’s longest nonstop commercial flights starting next year. It flew from Toulouse on July 23 for 19 hours and 13 minutes before landing in Melbourne, Australia, on July 24, its first ultra-long-haul test flight. It then took off from Australia for Toulouse on July 27 and landed on July 28, flying non-stop for 24 hours and 25 minutes. Airbus has developed the A350-1000ULR for Qantas Airways, which plans to start nonstop flights between Sydney and either New York or London in 2027. The airline has ordered a dozen aircraft for its Project Sunrise routes and bookings will open in February. The latest flight to Toulouse covered 12,460 nautical miles in total, Airbus said. Data from flight-tracking service Flightradar24 shows the route stretched across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and North America. Its previous flight from Toulouse covered 17,000km with four Airbus pilots and the five flight-test engineers on board. They monitored the aircraft systems in the cockpit and from the main cabin. The return flight to Toulouse had two Qantas pilots, besides the test flight crew, including three Airbus pilots and five flight-test engineers. Also Read: Why more than 75,000 people watched a record Qantas flight on Flightradar24 Friday? Pilot shifts, resting spaces on Qantas Airbus A350-1000ULR “We have organised a schedule to allow a Qantas pilot to take the controls at specific times,” Xavier Pepin, the Airbus test pilot who captained the return flight, said in a post. Each pilot covered a four-hour shift, and the crew was rotated every two hours. "This staggered approach ensures that when a new pilot joins the cockpit, they overlap for two hours with the outgoing pilot," he said. A twin flight crew rest compartment allows pilots to enter or exit rest areas without disturbing each other. The plane has been fitted with an extra rear centre fuel tank that can carry 20,900 litres, which helps it fly the extra 1,000 nautical miles. This allows it to travel non-stop for nearly 10,000 nautical miles. 3.6 million people tracked return flight to Toulouse The return flight from Melbourne was tracked by 3.6 million people, according to Flightradar24. This makes it the second-most-tracked flight ever on the flight tracking service. The Royal Air Force flight that carried Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin in 2022 remains the most-tracked flight. More than 75,000 people tracked the initial flight to Melbourne. Current longest flight The current record holder for the longest non-stop flight is Singapore Airlines, which connects New York City and Singapore and flies for 18-19 hours. Qantas Airways is hoping to keep the time under 21 hours and 40 minutes. It would carry up to 238 passengers, with more than 40 per cent of seats allocated to First, Business, and Premium Economy tickets.

Qantas Airways return test flight from Melbourne to Toulouse flew for more than 24 hours non-stop, setting a new record. The Airbus has been specifically designed for Qantas. More than 3.6 million people tracked the flight. Services will start in October 2027.

3.6mn people track 24hr Qantas flight from Melbourne to Toulouse: Pilot shifts, fuel tank and other details

&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Jul 28) said US President Donald Trump had agreed to grant Ukraine licences to manufacture Patriot air defence missile systems, marking a potentially significant step in Kyiv's efforts to strengthen its domestic defence industry.Speaking to Fox News after meeting Trump at the White House, Zelensky said the agreement built on discussions the two leaders had begun earlier this month during the NATO summit in Ankara. "We began it in Ankara to give Ukraine licences for the production of Patriots," Zelensky said. "This is important, because we need more and quicker."He added that Trump had accepted the proposal during Tuesday's meeting. "Today, we had a very good meeting with President Trump. He accepted that he will give us licences," Zelensky said.Posting photographs from the meeting, Trump also said that it "went very well!" while noting that "Many things were discussed".<h2>Joint production discussed</h2>Zelensky said he later met executives from major US defence companies to explore the possibility of jointly producing Patriot systems. "I hope that we will do co-production. This is very important," he said.Ahead of the White House meeting, the Ukrainian president had told reporters at the US Capitol that Ukraine's most urgent military requirement remained protection against Russian ballistic missile attacks."The real problem is anti-ballistic systems and anti-ballistic missiles," he said. "Of course, I shared what we need... I shared it with the president today."<h2>Air defence remains Kyiv's top priority</h2>Ukraine has repeatedly sought additional Patriot missile systems as Russia has stepped up the use of ballistic missiles and long-range drone attacks.According to the United Nations, last month was the deadliest for Ukrainian civilians since April 2022, with Russian missile strikes causing heavy casualties across the country.A senior Ukrainian official said Kyiv's immediate priority is securing approval to acquire additional Patriot interceptors while also expanding domestic production capacity through licensed manufacturing.The White House meeting came as fighting intensified once again, with Ukraine launching hundreds of drones into Russia while Moscow continued overnight drone attacks and strikes on Ukrainian cities and port infrastructure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said US President Donald Trump has agreed to grant Ukraine licences to manufacture Patriot air defence missile systems, a move aimed at strengthening Kyiv's domestic defence production as Russia intensifies missile and drone attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Jul 28) said US President Donald Trump had agreed to grant Ukraine licences to manufacture Patriot air defence missile systems, marking a potentially significant step in Kyiv's efforts to strengthen its domestic defence industry. Speaking to Fox News after meeting Trump at the White House, Zelensky said the agreement built on discussions the two leaders had begun earlier this month during the NATO summit in Ankara. "We began it in Ankara to give Ukraine licences for the production of Patriots," Zelensky said. "This is important, because we need more and quicker." He added that Trump had accepted the proposal during Tuesday's meeting. "Today, we had a very good meeting with President Trump. He accepted that he will give us licences," Zelensky said. Posting photographs from the meeting, Trump also said that it "went very well!" while noting that "Many things were discussed". Joint production discussed Zelensky said he later met executives from major US defence companies to explore the possibility of jointly producing Patriot systems. "I hope that we will do co-production. This is very important," he said. Ahead of the White House meeting, the Ukrainian president had told reporters at the US Capitol that Ukraine's most urgent military requirement remained protection against Russian ballistic missile attacks. "The real problem is anti-ballistic systems and anti-ballistic missiles," he said. "Of course, I shared what we need... I shared it with the president today." Air defence remains Kyiv's top priority Ukraine has repeatedly sought additional Patriot missile systems as Russia has stepped up the use of ballistic missiles and long-range drone attacks. According to the United Nations, last month was the deadliest for Ukrainian civilians since April 2022, with Russian missile strikes causing heavy casualties across the country. A senior Ukrainian official said Kyiv's immediate priority is securing approval to acquire additional Patriot interceptors while also expanding domestic production capacity through licensed manufacturing. The White House meeting came as fighting intensified once again, with Ukraine launching hundreds of drones into Russia while Moscow continued overnight drone attacks and strikes on Ukrainian cities and port infrastructure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said US President Donald Trump has agreed to grant Ukraine licences to manufacture Patriot air defence missile systems, a move aimed at strengthening Kyiv's domestic defence production as Russia intensifies missile and drone attacks.

Ukraine to manufacture Patriot systems? Zelensky says Trump gave green light

Delhi Police on Tuesday (Jul 28) rejected allegations by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) that a truck loaded with stones was deliberately placed near Jantar Mantar ahead of its ‘Chalo Sansad’ march to trigger violence and frame protesters. This comes after a media outlet claimed that it traced the vehicle with its registration number. The Delhi Police said that the claims that the truck was placed as part of a conspiracy against protesters were “false and misleading.”<h2>‘Completely baseless’: Delhi Police</h2>Responding to a report by Newslaundry, the DCP New Delhi clarified that the truck was seized in connection with an accident with an EECO van on July 16. Six people were injured in the incident. It added that the vehicle was initially placed near PS Parliament Street while in custody due to space constraints. Due to the planned “Chalo Sansad” march, it was later emptied and moved to a different location in the early hours of July 20.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-abhijeet-dipke-founder-of-cockroach-janta-party-leading-neet-protests-that-triggered-dharmendra-pradhan-s-resignation-1784979308879">Who is Abhijeet Dipke? Founder of Cockroach Janta Party leading NEET protests that triggered Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation</a>“It is clarified that claims alleging that *Truck No. HR63 E 6865 was deliberately deployed by Delhi Police near Jantar Mantar or outside any political party office* are false and misleading,” DCP New Delhi said in a statement. “The truck was seized in FIR No. 65/2026 on *16.07.2026* in connection with a road traffic accident involving the truck and an EECO van, in which six persons were injured earlier that day.”It added, “The seized vehicle was initially parked near PS Parliament Street for safe custody due to space constraints. Considering the law and order arrangements for the "Chalo Sansad" movement, it was later emptied and shifted to a safer place in the early hours of 20.07.2026, after due instructions to the owner.”The post further said that any claim linking the vehicle to a conspiracy against protesters is “completely baseless”. It also urged citizens not to circulate unverified information and only rely on official sources.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It is clarified that claims alleging that *Truck No. HR63 E 6865 was deliberately deployed by Delhi Police near Jantar Mantar or outside any political party office* are false and misleading. The truck was seized in FIR No. 65/2026 on *16.07.2026* in connection with a road…&mdash; DCP New Delhi (@DCPNewDelhi) <a href="https://x.com/DCPNewDelhi/status/2082134851185189135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What did CJP claim?</h2>The statement by Delhi Police came after CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed that a truck loaded with stones was deliberately parked near the protest site, suggesting a possible conspiracy by the authorities against protesters. The video quickly went viral on social media, with people questioning why the truck was parked there.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/that-is-the-job-of-centre-delhi-hc-dismisses-plea-seeking-nia-probe-into-cjp-neet-protest-1784887546202">‘That is the job of Centre’: Delhi HC dismisses plea seeking NIA probe into CJP NEET protest</a>“Truck loaded with stones have been parked at Jantar Mantar,” Dipke wrote on X while sharing a video of the truck filled with stones. “What are the police authorities upto? Are they orchestrating stone-pelting on the peaceful CJP protesters?”“We have received input that the authorities are planning something heinous where they will allow goons to disrupt the protest and then blame it on the peaceful CJP protesters,” he further claimed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Truck loaded with stones have been parked at Jantar Mantar. What are the police authorities upto? Are they orchestrating stone-pelting on the peaceful CJP protesters? <a href="https://t.co/luwTkVWI7S">pic.twitter.com/luwTkVWI7S</a>&mdash; Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) <a href="https://x.com/abhijeet_dipke/status/2079007007281910032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The police clarification came after the CJP protest turned violent when clashes broke out between the protesters and police. More than 200 police personnel and over 65 protesters were injured in the incident. Police have since registered multiple cases in connection with the violence and continue to investigate the incidents surrounding the protest.

A stone-laden truck near Jantar Mantar sparked a controversy ahead of the CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march, with allegations of a possible conspiracy. Here’s what Delhi Police said.

Delhi Police on Tuesday (Jul 28) rejected allegations by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) that a truck loaded with stones was deliberately placed near Jantar Mantar ahead of its ‘Chalo Sansad’ march to trigger violence and frame protesters. This comes after a media outlet claimed that it traced the vehicle with its registration number. The Delhi Police said that the claims that the truck was placed as part of a conspiracy against protesters were “false and misleading.” ‘Completely baseless’: Delhi Police Responding to a report by Newslaundry, the DCP New Delhi clarified that the truck was seized in connection with an accident with an EECO van on July 16. Six people were injured in the incident. It added that the vehicle was initially placed near PS Parliament Street while in custody due to space constraints. Due to the planned “Chalo Sansad” march, it was later emptied and moved to a different location in the early hours of July 20. Also read | Who is Abhijeet Dipke? Founder of Cockroach Janta Party leading NEET protests that triggered Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation “It is clarified that claims alleging that *Truck No. HR63 E 6865 was deliberately deployed by Delhi Police near Jantar Mantar or outside any political party office* are false and misleading,” DCP New Delhi said in a statement. “The truck was seized in FIR No. 65/2026 on *16.07.2026* in connection with a road traffic accident involving the truck and an EECO van, in which six persons were injured earlier that day.” It added, “The seized vehicle was initially parked near PS Parliament Street for safe custody due to space constraints. Considering the law and order arrangements for the "Chalo Sansad" movement, it was later emptied and shifted to a safer place in the early hours of 20.07.2026, after due instructions to the owner.” The post further said that any claim linking the vehicle to a conspiracy against protesters is “completely baseless”. It also urged citizens not to circulate unverified information and only rely on official sources.

A stone-laden truck near Jantar Mantar ahead of the CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march sparked a controversy, with allegations of a conspiracy against protesters. Here’s what Delhi Police said.

Was stone-laden truck planted at Jantar Mantar before CJP march? Delhi Police reveals truth about ‘conspiracy’ claim

American Airlines was forced to halt departures across the United States on Tuesday after a major IT outage disrupted its operations, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a nationwide ground stop for the carrier.The FAA imposed the ground stop at around 6:30 pm EDT (2230 GMT), ordering all American Airlines aircraft that had not yet taken off to remain on the ground while the airline worked to resolve the technical issue. Flights already in the air were not affected.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/scary-rogue-ai-on-the-loose-openai-agent-hit-another-tech-firm-s-customer-suggests-report-1785292505727">'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report</a><h2>What happened?</h2>American Airlines has not disclosed what caused the IT failure. Reports suggest that the outage impacted the airline's website, mobile app and other customer-facing systems, with more than 1,500 users reporting problems on outage-tracking platform DownDetector.American Airlines acknowledged the disruption, saying a "technology issue briefly impacted connectivity" across some of its systems. "We're currently experiencing a systemwide IT outage. Our IT team is working to get everything restored as quickly as possible," the airline said in a comment on a post on X during the disruption.The ground stop lasted about 45 minutes before the FAA lifted the restriction after the airline restored its systems."Connectivity has been fully restored. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience. We appreciate the efforts of our team to bring our systems back online so quickly and take care of our customers," American Airlines said in a statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-admits-in-court-why-it-canceled-hundreds-of-energy-grants-the-reason-people-voted-for-kamala-harris-1784951660505">Trump administration admits in court why it cancelled hundreds of energy grants. The reason? People voted for Kamala Harris</a><h2>How many flights were affected?</h2>The outage caused widespread disruption to the airline's schedule. According to flight-tracking website FlightAware, more than 1,100 flights, or about 30 per cent of American Airlines' operations on Tuesday, were delayed, while 221 flights were cancelled.Another aviation tracking service, Flightradar24, reported that around 130 fewer American Airlines aircraft were in the air compared with the same time a week earlier.The disruption also coincided with severe thunderstorms affecting several airports along the US East Coast, compounding delays for travellers.&nbsp;

American Airlines temporarily halted departures across the United States after a systemwide IT outage prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to issue a nationwide ground stop, delaying more than 1,100 flights before operations resumed about 45 minutes later.

American Airlines was forced to halt departures across the United States on Tuesday after a major IT outage disrupted its operations, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a nationwide ground stop for the carrier. The FAA imposed the ground stop at around 6:30 pm EDT (2230 GMT), ordering all American Airlines aircraft that had not yet taken off to remain on the ground while the airline worked to resolve the technical issue. Flights already in the air were not affected. Also read | 'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report What happened? American Airlines has not disclosed what caused the IT failure. Reports suggest that the outage impacted the airline's website, mobile app and other customer-facing systems, with more than 1,500 users reporting problems on outage-tracking platform DownDetector. American Airlines acknowledged the disruption, saying a "technology issue briefly impacted connectivity" across some of its systems. "We're currently experiencing a systemwide IT outage. Our IT team is working to get everything restored as quickly as possible," the airline said in a comment on a post on X during the disruption. The ground stop lasted about 45 minutes before the FAA lifted the restriction after the airline restored its systems. "Connectivity has been fully restored. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience. We appreciate the efforts of our team to bring our systems back online so quickly and take care of our customers," American Airlines said in a statement. Also read | Trump administration admits in court why it cancelled hundreds of energy grants. The reason? People voted for Kamala Harris How many flights were affected? The outage caused widespread disruption to the airline's schedule. According to flight-tracking website FlightAware, more than 1,100 flights, or about 30 per cent of American Airlines' operations on Tuesday, were delayed, while 221 flights were cancelled. Another aviation tracking service, Flightradar24, reported that around 130 fewer American Airlines aircraft were in the air compared with the same time a week earlier. The disruption also coincided with severe thunderstorms affecting several airports along the US East Coast, compounding delays for travellers.

American Airlines temporarily halted departures across the United States after a systemwide IT outage prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to issue a nationwide ground stop, delaying more than 1,100 flights before operations resumed about 45 minutes later.

American Airlines flights grounded nationwide by FAA for nearly an hour. What happened?

Following the massive 7.1-magnitude earthquake in Japan on Tuesday (Jul 29), a video has gone viral on social media showing a cat detecting the tremors moments before the shaking starts. The footage captured on a pet camera highlights how animals can reportedly detect major earthquakes before they even happen.&nbsp;In the video, the feline can be seen lying on the bed. Suddenly, it jolts up, becoming alert as it checks its surroundings, as if it can detect something is wrong. Just seconds later, the entire room can be seen shaking as the earthquake hits, with several items falling in the room.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇯🇵 Shocking video of a cat detecting an earthquake in Japan before it even starts Writer: Sol<a href="https://t.co/a05lZ0QqNE">pic.twitter.com/a05lZ0QqNE</a>&mdash; Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://x.com/MarioNawfal/status/2082241440432762967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The powerful quake hit the country’s southwestern region of Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu island, resulting in widespread destruction, triggering fires and leaving thousands of homes without power. According to Japanese authorities, at least 13 people were killed, and several were injured as buildings collapsed, trapping people under the rubble. Rescuers are racing against time to locate the survivors.“Thirteen people have died,” Takaichi said, confirming the death toll a day after the tremor that was recorded at the highest level on Japan’s Shindo scale of seismic shaking.“Extensive damage has been confirmed, including casualties, collapsed buildings, fires and damage to roads,” she added.According to officials, more than 9,000 people were in evacuation centres across five prefectures. “We have received reports of seven people with serious injuries and 29 with minor injuries. Furthermore, as of 7:00 am today (2200 GMT Tuesday), 9,186 people have sought refuge in 506 evacuation centres across five prefectures, including Kumamoto and Fukuoka,” government spokesman Minoru Kihara said on Wednesday (Jul 29).Among the worst-hit areas was a shopping mall in Kashima, where a suspected gas explosion reportedly caused parts of the structure to collapse. Officials said eight people were rescued from the building, while several others suffered injuries. Authorities were still trying to determine the exact number of people trapped inside.Rescue teams also faced challenges at a Nippon Paper Industries factory in Yatsushiro, where a damaged smokestack partially collapsed. Local officials said nine people were reported missing from the facility.The earthquake caused multiple emergencies across Kumamoto, including damaged bridges, disrupted transport services and collapsed sections of roads. A pedestrian walkway collapsed into a river, while a freight train was reportedly overturned during the quake.Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active countries. The island nation lies on top of four major tectonic plates along the western edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire”. With a population of about 125 million people, Japan experiences about 1,500 earthquakes every year and accounts for about 18 per cent of the earthquakes in the world.In 2011, the country was struck by a massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake, which triggered a tsunami. About 18,500 people were killed or went missing in the disaster.

A viral video shows a cat reacting moments before Japan’s 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck. The quake killed 13 people, damaged buildings and triggered massive rescue operations in Kumamoto.

Following the massive 7.1-magnitude earthquake in Japan on Tuesday (Jul 29), a video has gone viral on social media showing a cat detecting the tremors moments before the shaking starts. The footage captured on a pet camera highlights how animals can reportedly detect major earthquakes before they even happen. In the video, the feline can be seen lying on the bed. Suddenly, it jolts up, becoming alert as it checks its surroundings, as if it can detect something is wrong. Just seconds later, the entire room can be seen shaking as the earthquake hits, with several items falling in the room.

A viral video shows a cat reacting moments before Japan’s 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck. The quake killed 13 people, damaged buildings and triggered massive rescue operations in Kumamoto.

Cat’s bizarre reaction before Japan earthquake goes viral: Did it detect the tremors?

Guru Purnima honours one of the oldest relationships India has known - between a guru and a disciple. This year, Indians are marking this day on July 29. The day celebrates knowledge and sharing it with the world. It is the birth anniversary of Sage Veda Vyasa, the man who put the Vedas together and gave the world the Mahabharata. It's also remembered as the day Lord Shiva first taught yogic wisdom to the Saptarishis, who then spread out and shared the knowledge and wisdom with others.&nbsp;In 2026, Guru Purnima also carries an astrological significance. "Jupiter, the planet linked to wisdom, is at the strongest point in its yearly cycle on this very day," Acharya Poonam Dutta (Satyamshakti), Founder &amp; Chief Astrologer, Annant Drishti, says. She adds, "Every Guru Purnima carries a bit of this meaning anyway, since the festival and the planet share the same root idea. But this year adds something more."&nbsp;Jupiter is currently moving through Cancer. This is the sign where it feels unusually at home. "Cancer belongs to the Moon, the planet tied to emotion and instinct. When Jupiter sits here, its wisdom stops staying purely in the head. It becomes something felt, not just something understood," she says.<h2>Jupiter and Sun are strongest at this time</h2>So what does it mean for you? Acharya Poonam says that with the Sun also being prominent during this period, it is "pushing us towards self-understanding, while Jupiter offers the wisdom needed to walk that path." This combination brings “an unusually supportive stretch for finally shedding old confusion or self-doubt.”<h2>The courage to do what's right</h2>Additionally, this is also the best time to start practising meditation. The Purnima runs from July 28 until 8:05 PM on July 29. Further, until 3:14 pm on July 29, the Moon rests in Uttara Ashadha nakshatra, which is tied to the universal deities of dharma, i.e. the Vishwadevas. "It is also connected to the Virat Swaroop of Shree Krishna. This is that vast cosmic form he revealed in the Bhagavad Gita. This nakshatra carries themes of quiet resolve, and the courage to do what's right even when it costs something," Acharya Poonam says.<h2>Guru Purnima 2026 opens the doors to practising spirituality</h2>After this time, the Moon will shift into Lord Vishnu's Shravana Nakshatra. "This nakshatra governs the ability to receive teaching with humility. The ability of a human to hold onto it with devotion. Really two qualities that sit right at the heart of every real guru-shishya bond," she says.From July 29, a window opens for anyone hoping to enter the spiritual realm. "This configuration offers a strong window to begin something new. That could mean starting formal study, reaching out to a teacher, picking up meditation, or just sitting with the question of where ignorance is still clouding one's own thinking."

Guru Purnima 2026 is the time to start new things, shed self-doubt, and enter the realm of spirituality If you are looking to start practising meditation, today is the day for it. Here is how the stars align and affect you this Guru Purnima.

Guru Purnima honours one of the oldest relationships India has known - between a guru and a disciple. This year, Indians are marking this day on July 29. The day celebrates knowledge and sharing it with the world. It is the birth anniversary of Sage Veda Vyasa, the man who put the Vedas together and gave the world the Mahabharata. It's also remembered as the day Lord Shiva first taught yogic wisdom to the Saptarishis, who then spread out and shared the knowledge and wisdom with others. In 2026, Guru Purnima also carries an astrological significance. "Jupiter, the planet linked to wisdom, is at the strongest point in its yearly cycle on this very day," Acharya Poonam Dutta (Satyamshakti), Founder & Chief Astrologer, Annant Drishti, says. She adds, "Every Guru Purnima carries a bit of this meaning anyway, since the festival and the planet share the same root idea. But this year adds something more." Jupiter is currently moving through Cancer. This is the sign where it feels unusually at home. "Cancer belongs to the Moon, the planet tied to emotion and instinct. When Jupiter sits here, its wisdom stops staying purely in the head. It becomes something felt, not just something understood," she says. Jupiter and Sun are strongest at this time So what does it mean for you? Acharya Poonam says that with the Sun also being prominent during this period, it is "pushing us towards self-understanding, while Jupiter offers the wisdom needed to walk that path." This combination brings “an unusually supportive stretch for finally shedding old confusion or self-doubt.” The courage to do what's right Additionally, this is also the best time to start practising meditation. The Purnima runs from July 28 until 8:05 PM on July 29. Further, until 3:14 pm on July 29, the Moon rests in Uttara Ashadha nakshatra, which is tied to the universal deities of dharma, i.e. the Vishwadevas. "It is also connected to the Virat Swaroop of Shree Krishna. This is that vast cosmic form he revealed in the Bhagavad Gita. This nakshatra carries themes of quiet resolve, and the courage to do what's right even when it costs something," Acharya Poonam says. Guru Purnima 2026 opens the doors to practising spirituality After this time, the Moon will shift into Lord Vishnu's Shravana Nakshatra. "This nakshatra governs the ability to receive teaching with humility. The ability of a human to hold onto it with devotion. Really two qualities that sit right at the heart of every real guru-shishya bond," she says. From July 29, a window opens for anyone hoping to enter the spiritual realm. "This configuration offers a strong window to begin something new. That could mean starting formal study, reaching out to a teacher, picking up meditation, or just sitting with the question of where ignorance is still clouding one's own thinking."

Guru Purnima 2026 is the time to start new things, shed self-doubt, and enter the realm of spirituality. If you are looking to start practising meditation, today is the day for it. Here is how the stars align and affect you this Guru Purnima.

Guru Purnima 2026 opens doors to the spiritual realm and is the time to do what's right

Donald Trump went bizarrely off script at late South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral on Tuesday, telling his sister that not "everybody liked him." The President did not hesitate to say unsuitable things, something the people of America have gotten used to during his tenure at the White House. He was given a speech by his writers for Graham's eulogy. He started off fine, but then decided to pick on a detail and use it to basically mock the late senator.&nbsp;"Virtually everyone—Republican or Democrat—liked Lindsey," said Trump, before getting the urge to add his own take about the dead person being remembered. "Well, not everybody. But it sounds good. Not everybody. He was a tough cookie, OK? I have to be—I have to veer from this for a second. He was a tough cookie, Darline, but he was beautiful," Trump said, addressing Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-did-donald-trump-say-about-guantanamo-at-lindsey-graham-s-funeral-viral-joke-from-eulogy-explained-1785278494113">What did Donald Trump say about Guantanamo at Lindsey Graham's funeral?</a>&nbsp;Graham passed away on July 11 after suddenly falling ill. A preliminary medical report found that he had died from a tear in his aorta due to the hardening of his arteries.<h2>Trump recalled how Graham and became friends</h2>Trump also told the mourners about how he and Graham had become friends after he entered politics. He recalled the time he flashed Graham's phone number on TV during the 2016 presidential election debate. "He said, 'I had that number for 20 years.' His phone totally—I don't know what he did with it. But it exploded. That was the beginning of friendship in a way," Trump said. "But it was Lindsey who had the last laugh, because while I blew up his phone for one day, we became great friends and Lindsey did not stop calling me for the next 10 years."&nbsp;Trump was also caught with his eyes closed at the funeral while sitting next to Vice President JD Vance. At one point, he took out Tic Tac's and showed them to his deputy. Reacting to his apparent nap, a user wrote on social media, "Yes everyone, this is the man that holds the nuclear codes. Let that sink in." Another wrote, "If the speaker is speaking of ANYONE but Trump, he’s bored, shifting, sweating, desperate for it to be over." &nbsp;

Donald Trump could not help being his usual self at Lindsey Graham's funeral. He mocked the late senator, saying that he was a tough cookie and not everyone liked him. He was also caught with his eyes shut and pulling out Tic Tacs.

Donald Trump went bizarrely off script at late South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral on Tuesday, telling his sister that not "everybody liked him." The President did not hesitate to say unsuitable things, something the people of America have gotten used to during his tenure at the White House. He was given a speech by his writers for Graham's eulogy. He started off fine, but then decided to pick on a detail and use it to basically mock the late senator. "Virtually everyone—Republican or Democrat—liked Lindsey," said Trump, before getting the urge to add his own take about the dead person being remembered. "Well, not everybody. But it sounds good. Not everybody. He was a tough cookie, OK? I have to be—I have to veer from this for a second. He was a tough cookie, Darline, but he was beautiful," Trump said, addressing Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone. Also Read: What did Donald Trump say about Guantanamo at Lindsey Graham's funeral? Graham passed away on July 11 after suddenly falling ill. A preliminary medical report found that he had died from a tear in his aorta due to the hardening of his arteries. Trump recalled how Graham and became friends Trump also told the mourners about how he and Graham had become friends after he entered politics. He recalled the time he flashed Graham's phone number on TV during the 2016 presidential election debate. "He said, 'I had that number for 20 years.' His phone totally—I don't know what he did with it. But it exploded. That was the beginning of friendship in a way," Trump said. "But it was Lindsey who had the last laugh, because while I blew up his phone for one day, we became great friends and Lindsey did not stop calling me for the next 10 years." Trump was also caught with his eyes closed at the funeral while sitting next to Vice President JD Vance. At one point, he took out Tic Tac's and showed them to his deputy. Reacting to his apparent nap, a user wrote on social media, "Yes everyone, this is the man that holds the nuclear codes. Let that sink in." Another wrote, "If the speaker is speaking of ANYONE but Trump, he’s bored, shifting, sweating, desperate for it to be over."

Donald Trump could not help being his usual self at Lindsey Graham's funeral. He mocked the late senator, saying that he was a tough cookie and not everyone liked him. He was also caught with his eyes shut and pulling out Tic Tac.

'Well, not everybody...' - Donald Trump makes inappropriate remark at Lindsey Graham's funeral

At least 75 people have been confirmed dead in the devastating Assam floods. According to the latest report from the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS) issued on Tuesday (Jul 28), seven latest fatalities were reported from Sivasagar. The floods continue to affect seven districts — Sivasagar, Charaideo, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon, Sonitpur and Kamrup (Metropolitan).<h2>Over 3.3 lakh people affected</h2>The DRIMS report said the floods have affected 3,32,639 people across 622 villages in 21 revenue circles. The agricultural sector has also suffered extensive damage, with 45,341.98 hectares of crop area remaining submerged.Among the state's rivers, the Dhansiri at Numaligarh continues to flow above the danger level, although no river has crossed its highest flood level mark.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-floods-over-4-45-lakh-affected-across-six-districts-631-villages-inundated-charaideo-worst-hit-1785198555842">Assam floods: Over 4.45 lakh affected across six districts; 631 villages inundated, Charaideo worst-hit</a><h2>Families of Assam flood victims to get ₹9 lakh compensation</h2>Following the rise in casualties, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a series of relief measures for flood-hit families. "We will leave no stone unturned to support our people and help them rebuild their lives," he said in a post on X.Under the revised package, the state government has waived the requirement of a post-mortem for disbursing the ₹4 lakh ex gratia provided for flood-related deaths. In addition, the Chief Minister announced ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, taking the total compensation for the families of flood victims to ₹9 lakh.The government also said that families of people who remain missing for more than 30 days will be eligible for the ₹4 lakh ex gratia.<h2>Cash support for affected families</h2>To provide immediate assistance, the government will distribute ₹15,000 in cash to more than one lakh severely flood-affected families for essential household needs. The state also announced that the Orunodoi welfare scheme will resume from August 1, with beneficiaries in Charaideo, Jorhat, Golaghat and Sivasagar receiving a special instalment of ₹2,500 for the month.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-scientists-miss-the-real-reason-behind-gujarat-s-record-rain-meet-the-pacific-decadal-oscillation-wion-decodes-1784967048004">Gujarat floods: Is El Niño to blame? Why the state saw 400 mm rain in hours</a><h2>Relief for students</h2>The relief package also includes support for students affected by the floods. Beginning August 1, students in severely affected districts will receive book grants ranging from ₹1,000 for Higher Secondary students to ₹5,000 for postgraduate students.The state government will also provide free textbooks, assistance for school uniforms, and reissue lost Class X and XII marksheets and certificates free of charge. &nbsp;

The death toll in Assam's floods has risen to 75 after seven more fatalities were reported from Sivasagar, with over 3.3 lakh people affected. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a relief package, including ₹9 lakh compensation for the families of those killed.

At least 75 people have been confirmed dead in the devastating Assam floods. According to the latest report from the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS) issued on Tuesday (Jul 28), seven latest fatalities were reported from Sivasagar. The floods continue to affect seven districts — Sivasagar, Charaideo, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon, Sonitpur and Kamrup (Metropolitan). Over 3.3 lakh people affected The DRIMS report said the floods have affected 3,32,639 people across 622 villages in 21 revenue circles. The agricultural sector has also suffered extensive damage, with 45,341.98 hectares of crop area remaining submerged. Among the state's rivers, the Dhansiri at Numaligarh continues to flow above the danger level, although no river has crossed its highest flood level mark. Also read | Assam floods: Over 4.45 lakh affected across six districts; 631 villages inundated, Charaideo worst-hit Families of Assam flood victims to get ₹9 lakh compensation Following the rise in casualties, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a series of relief measures for flood-hit families. "We will leave no stone unturned to support our people and help them rebuild their lives," he said in a post on X. Under the revised package, the state government has waived the requirement of a post-mortem for disbursing the ₹4 lakh ex gratia provided for flood-related deaths. In addition, the Chief Minister announced ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, taking the total compensation for the families of flood victims to ₹9 lakh. The government also said that families of people who remain missing for more than 30 days will be eligible for the ₹4 lakh ex gratia. Cash support for affected families To provide immediate assistance, the government will distribute ₹15,000 in cash to more than one lakh severely flood-affected families for essential household needs. The state also announced that the Orunodoi welfare scheme will resume from August 1, with beneficiaries in Charaideo, Jorhat, Golaghat and Sivasagar receiving a special instalment of ₹2,500 for the month. Also read | Gujarat floods: Is El Niño to blame? Why the state saw 400 mm rain in hours Relief for students The relief package also includes support for students affected by the floods. Beginning August 1, students in severely affected districts will receive book grants ranging from ₹1,000 for Higher Secondary students to ₹5,000 for postgraduate students. The state government will also provide free textbooks, assistance for school uniforms, and reissue lost Class X and XII marksheets and certificates free of charge.

The death toll in Assam's floods has risen to 75 after seven more fatalities were reported from Sivasagar, with over 3.3 lakh people affected. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a relief package, including ₹9 lakh compensation for the families of those killed.

Assam flood toll rises to 75 as seven drown in Sivasagar; CM Himanta announces ₹9 lakh aid for victims' families

A study has found that our planet's most destructive disasters strike based on a regular cycle. These are events that have the potential to end all life on Earth or create conditions that eventually wipe everyone off the face of our planet. Professor Michael Rampino, a geologist at New York University, says that any of these disasters occurs every 27 million years. His scientific predictions, published in the journal Evolving Earth, show that Earth could be due for one such event in the near future.&nbsp;Rampino claims that something happens to our solar system every few years which triggers devastation on Earth. He analysed 89 geological events that struck in the last 260 years. This includes mass extinction events, asteroid collisions, a series of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, fluctuations in sea levels, oceans losing their oxygen, and changes in seafloor spreading rates. He claims that all of them are linked with a mysterious hidden chain.<h2>Three cycles of destruction and mass extinctions</h2>While the idea was first proposed in the 1980s, it was widely dismissed by critics as baseless. However, Rampino is almost sure that a single thread ties all mass extinction events. He further claims that there are shorter mini–cycles which connect some events every 8.9 million years, while some had a longer cycle of up to 270 million years. In one case, he found that the ages of cooled lava from massive volcanic eruptions spread over thousands of square miles matched almost exactly with his 27–million–year–cycle.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cataclysmic-bordeaux-france-wildfires-create-giant-fire-cloud-pyrocumulonimbus-1785128996426">Cataclysmic Bordeaux wildfire is generating its own thunderstorms inside massive fire cloud</a><h2>Earth's orbit influenced by solar system and Milky Way likely trigger geological events&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Rampino believes that they could be occurring because of the shifts taking place deep inside Earth. He, in turn, connects this with Earth's orbit around the Sun, and goes a step further and further links them to the galaxy. Our planet's semi–liquid mantle circulates at a slow speed. When this movement changes, it could trigger deadly volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and other geological processes.&nbsp;Rampino also found that variations in Earth's orbit and its movements within the galaxy as a whole also affect the occurrences on our planet. Our solar system is constantly moving, and every 30 million years it crosses the plane of the Milky Way. At this time, comets out in the Oort cloud are disturbed, sending some of them towards us. He noted that the wobbling of the solar system coincides with major events on Earth.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/100km-asteroid-exploded-and-changed-moon-and-earth-800mn-years-ago-1784715305298">100km asteroid exploded in the solar system and changed Moon and Earth 800mn years ago</a><h2>Dark matter collide and trigger major upheaval on Earth</h2>He then suggests that Earth gathers dark matter particles when it moves through the galactic centre, which then gather in the core, collide and annihilate each other, causing heat to be released, "which could initiate an intense pulse of global geologic activity." He says this process could be up to 250 times the Earth's present internal heat flux. Rampino says nine of the Earth's 13 mass extinctions occurred within 0.3 to six million years of crossing the galactic plane.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/physicist-warns-of-unseen-threat-in-space-blames-humans-for-a-doomsday-system-1784621355783">Physicist warns of unseen threat in space, blames humans for a ‘doomsday system’</a>&nbsp;He says that the last time Earth passed the plane was three to four million years ago. This means it will happen again in the next two million years. However, Rampino admits the topic remains controversial, has limited evidence and is counter to interpretations of the nature of the geologic record. &nbsp;

Earth's mass extinctions and other disasters could be following a pattern. A scientist has claimed that Earth's orbit, influenced by the solar system's movement through the Milky Way, could be causing earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and other such events on Earth. 

A study has found that our planet's most destructive disasters strike based on a regular cycle. These are events that have the potential to end all life on Earth or create conditions that eventually wipe everyone off the face of our planet. Professor Michael Rampino, a geologist at New York University, says that any of these disasters occurs every 27 million years. His scientific predictions, published in the journal Evolving Earth, show that Earth could be due for one such event in the near future. Rampino claims that something happens to our solar system every few years which triggers devastation on Earth. He analysed 89 geological events that struck in the last 260 years. This includes mass extinction events, asteroid collisions, a series of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, fluctuations in sea levels, oceans losing their oxygen, and changes in seafloor spreading rates. He claims that all of them are linked with a mysterious hidden chain. Three cycles of destruction and mass extinctions While the idea was first proposed in the 1980s, it was widely dismissed by critics as baseless. However, Rampino is almost sure that a single thread ties all mass extinction events. He further claims that there are shorter mini–cycles which connect some events every 8.9 million years, while some had a longer cycle of up to 270 million years. In one case, he found that the ages of cooled lava from massive volcanic eruptions spread over thousands of square miles matched almost exactly with his 27–million–year–cycle. Also Read: Cataclysmic Bordeaux wildfire is generating its own thunderstorms inside massive fire cloud Earth's orbit influenced by solar system and Milky Way likely trigger geological events Rampino believes that they could be occurring because of the shifts taking place deep inside Earth. He, in turn, connects this with Earth's orbit around the Sun, and goes a step further and further links them to the galaxy. Our planet's semi–liquid mantle circulates at a slow speed. When this movement changes, it could trigger deadly volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and other geological processes. Rampino also found that variations in Earth's orbit and its movements within the galaxy as a whole also affect the occurrences on our planet. Our solar system is constantly moving, and every 30 million years it crosses the plane of the Milky Way. At this time, comets out in the Oort cloud are disturbed, sending some of them towards us. He noted that the wobbling of the solar system coincides with major events on Earth. Also Read: 100km asteroid exploded in the solar system and changed Moon and Earth 800mn years ago Dark matter collide and trigger major upheaval on Earth He then suggests that Earth gathers dark matter particles when it moves through the galactic centre, which then gather in the core, collide and annihilate each other, causing heat to be released, "which could initiate an intense pulse of global geologic activity." He says this process could be up to 250 times the Earth's present internal heat flux. Rampino says nine of the Earth's 13 mass extinctions occurred within 0.3 to six million years of crossing the galactic plane. Also Read: Physicist warns of unseen threat in space, blames humans for a ‘doomsday system’ He says that the last time Earth passed the plane was three to four million years ago. This means it will happen again in the next two million years. However, Rampino admits the topic remains controversial, has limited evidence and is counter to interpretations of the nature of the geologic record.

Earth has gone through 13 mass extinction events in its over 4.6 billion-year history, and all of them could be linked to an occurrence in the Milky Way. A scientist has found a pattern to them and claims the exact same thing happens every few years

Scientist finds a pattern to Earth's mass extinctions, and it's hiding in deep space

An autonomous AI agent developed by OpenAI that went rogue during internal security testing and carried out a cyberattack on AI platform Hugging Face also compromised a customer hosted on cloud computing company Modal Labs, according to a Reuters report citing the company's chief technology officer and sources familiar with the incident.Modal stressed that its own infrastructure was never breached, saying the AI agent exploited a vulnerability in code published by one of its customers rather than breaking into the company's platform.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/openai-google-are-selling-ai-to-chinese-firms-blacklisted-by-pentagon-says-report-the-battleground-of-ai-export-controls-1783675864444">OpenAI, Google are selling AI to Chinese firms blacklisted by Pentagon, says report: The battleground of AI export controls</a><h2>OpenAI agent found exposed customer endpoint</h2>According to a timeline published by Hugging Face on Tuesday, the rogue AI agent first broke into a sandbox, an isolated testing environment, hosted on a third-party provider before using it as a launchpad for the wider attack.Although Hugging Face did not identify the provider, Modal CTO Akshat Bubna confirmed it was Modal's infrastructure.Bubna said the AI agent took advantage of a customer who had published an unauthenticated endpoint, effectively allowing anyone on the internet to execute code inside its sandbox."The customer's code left the digital equivalent of a front door unlocked," Modal said, adding that its platform and security isolation mechanisms were not compromised in any way.The incident suggests the autonomous AI system moved beyond Hugging Face during its hacking campaign, targeting additional online services.<h2>OpenAI confirms multiple accounts were compromised</h2>OpenAI declined to comment specifically on Modal but referred to a company update stating that the rogue AI agent had compromised four accounts across four separate services. The company did not publicly identify those services, although a person familiar with the matter confirmed Modal was one of them.OpenAI added that it had found no other incident matching the severity or scale of the Hugging Face breach, which it described as involving a platform-level compromise. Following the incident, OpenAI said it had deactivated, encrypted and restricted access to the experimental AI model involved in the attack.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/forget-typing-and-clicking-openai-wants-a-jarvis-like-chatgpt-that-works-across-your-devices-1785082235273">OpenAI wants ChatGPT everywhere, including the smart glasses you wear</a><h2>What happened?</h2>The breach dates back to early July, when OpenAI was testing advanced AI systems designed to assess offensive cybersecurity capabilities inside a tightly controlled environment.According to the company, the AI models unexpectedly discovered a way to obtain internet access despite being confined to a secure sandbox.Rather than simply completing their assigned evaluation, the models independently decided to search for information that could help them "cheat" the test. That led them to target Hugging Face, one of the world's largest repositories of AI models, datasets and software.OpenAI said the system chained together multiple attack techniques, including the use of stolen credentials, to gain access.<h2>AI security concerns intensify</h2>The incident has become one of the most closely watched AI safety events to date because the attack was carried out autonomously, without direct human instruction. Hugging Face said the intrusion differed from conventional cyberattacks because the entire operation, from reconnaissance to exploitation, was conducted by an AI agent.Chief executive Clement Delangue said the sophistication of the attack initially led the company to suspect it had originated from a leading AI laboratory. "We strongly believe there was no malicious intent on their part," Delangue wrote on X, referring to OpenAI, while describing the autonomous behaviour as "mind-blowing."Hussein Abbass, a computing professor at UNSW Canberra, told AFP that the incident was "amazing on many fronts"."It did not just attack Hugging Face. It actually attacked its internal system to exploit its own vulnerabilities," Abbass said. “And that's scary,” he added.

An autonomous AI agent developed by OpenAI that compromised Hugging Face during internal security testing also breached a customer hosted on Modal Labs by exploiting an exposed endpoint. All you need to know.

An autonomous AI agent developed by OpenAI that went rogue during internal security testing and carried out a cyberattack on AI platform Hugging Face also compromised a customer hosted on cloud computing company Modal Labs, according to a Reuters report citing the company's chief technology officer and sources familiar with the incident. Modal stressed that its own infrastructure was never breached, saying the AI agent exploited a vulnerability in code published by one of its customers rather than breaking into the company's platform. Also read | OpenAI, Google are selling AI to Chinese firms blacklisted by Pentagon, says report: The battleground of AI export controls OpenAI agent found exposed customer endpoint According to a timeline published by Hugging Face on Tuesday, the rogue AI agent first broke into a sandbox, an isolated testing environment, hosted on a third-party provider before using it as a launchpad for the wider attack. Although Hugging Face did not identify the provider, Modal CTO Akshat Bubna confirmed it was Modal's infrastructure. Bubna said the AI agent took advantage of a customer who had published an unauthenticated endpoint, effectively allowing anyone on the internet to execute code inside its sandbox. "The customer's code left the digital equivalent of a front door unlocked," Modal said, adding that its platform and security isolation mechanisms were not compromised in any way. The incident suggests the autonomous AI system moved beyond Hugging Face during its hacking campaign, targeting additional online services. OpenAI confirms multiple accounts were compromised OpenAI declined to comment specifically on Modal but referred to a company update stating that the rogue AI agent had compromised four accounts across four separate services. The company did not publicly identify those services, although a person familiar with the matter confirmed Modal was one of them. OpenAI added that it had found no other incident matching the severity or scale of the Hugging Face breach, which it described as involving a platform-level compromise. Following the incident, OpenAI said it had deactivated, encrypted and restricted access to the experimental AI model involved in the attack. Also read | OpenAI wants ChatGPT everywhere, including the smart glasses you wear What happened? The breach dates back to early July, when OpenAI was testing advanced AI systems designed to assess offensive cybersecurity capabilities inside a tightly controlled environment. According to the company, the AI models unexpectedly discovered a way to obtain internet access despite being confined to a secure sandbox. Rather than simply completing their assigned evaluation, the models independently decided to search for information that could help them "cheat" the test. That led them to target Hugging Face, one of the world's largest repositories of AI models, datasets and software. OpenAI said the system chained together multiple attack techniques, including the use of stolen credentials, to gain access. AI security concerns intensify The incident has become one of the most closely watched AI safety events to date because the attack was carried out autonomously, without direct human instruction. Hugging Face said the intrusion differed from conventional cyberattacks because the entire operation, from reconnaissance to exploitation, was conducted by an AI agent. Chief executive Clement Delangue said the sophistication of the attack initially led the company to suspect it had originated from a leading AI laboratory. "We strongly believe there was no malicious intent on their part," Delangue wrote on X, referring to OpenAI, while describing the autonomous behaviour as "mind-blowing." Hussein Abbass, a computing professor at UNSW Canberra, told AFP that the incident was "amazing on many fronts". "It did not just attack Hugging Face. It actually attacked its internal system to exploit its own vulnerabilities," Abbass said. “And that's scary,” he added.

An autonomous AI agent developed by OpenAI that compromised Hugging Face during internal security testing also breached a customer hosted on Modal Labs by exploiting an exposed endpoint. All you need to know.

'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report

The Donald Trump administration on Tuesday (Jul 28) expanded US restrictions on foreign technology by banning the import of certain humanoid and quadruped robots manufactured abroad. Citing national security and cybersecurity concerns, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that "advanced robotic devices" have been added to its list of prohibited products and companies. The move targets what the agency described as "mobile robots" that walk on two or four legs, mimicking human or animal movement.Notably, most humanoid robots currently sold in the United States are manufactured overseas, particularly in China.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-tower-of-babel-and-why-did-pope-leo-warn-about-it-while-talking-about-ai-wion-decodes-1779790151646">Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI?</a><h2>National security concerns</h2>According to the FCC, the decision follows recommendations from a White House task force, which concluded that foreign-built robots could pose cybersecurity risks to critical infrastructure and threaten the safety and security of US residents.The administration said the robots could potentially be exploited for surveillance, data collection or cyber intrusions.Among the cases cited by the task force was that of French programmer Sammy Azdoufal, who reportedly gained access to data from thousands of robotic vacuum cleaners manufactured by Chinese company DJI.The FCC's blacklist already includes certain drones as well as Chinese telecommunications firms Huawei and China Telecom.The agency also expanded the blacklist to include foreign-made inverters, devices used to convert direct current from batteries or solar panels into alternating current for use on the electrical grid.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-s-next-terror-threat-may-not-cross-the-border-it-may-enter-through-your-phone-wion-decodes-1784346117443">India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes</a><h2>Ban applies only to future models</h2>The restrictions will apply only to new robot models seeking approval for the US market. Robots that have already been authorised or sold in the country will not be affected.The Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security will retain the authority to grant exemptions where necessary.A Trump administration official told AFP that the ban covers both robots imported fully assembled and those assembled in the United States if more than 35 per cent of their components are manufactured abroad.<h2>Push to boost US robotics manufacturing?</h2>The move comes as the Trump administration continues to encourage domestic manufacturing of advanced technologies, including robotics. Several companies already produce or assemble humanoid robots in the United States, including Boston Dynamics, Tesla, Figure AI and Agility Robotics.South Korean automaker Hyundai, which recently acquired Boston Dynamics, has announced plans to build a robotics factory in the United States capable of producing 30,000 robots annually.Elon Musk's Tesla is also preparing to begin industrial production of its Optimus humanoid robot at factories in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas. The company says it ultimately aims to produce 1 million robots annually in Fremont and 10 million annually in Austin, although current plans focus primarily on assembly rather than full-scale manufacturing.Meanwhile, Figure AI assembles robots at its facility in San Jose, California, while Agility Robotics operates a factory in Salem, Oregon, with an annual production capacity of 10,000 robots.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has banned the import of foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots on national security grounds, citing cybersecurity risks posed by advanced robotic devices while seeking to boost domestic robotics manufacturing.

The Donald Trump administration on Tuesday (Jul 28) expanded US restrictions on foreign technology by banning the import of certain humanoid and quadruped robots manufactured abroad. Citing national security and cybersecurity concerns, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that "advanced robotic devices" have been added to its list of prohibited products and companies. The move targets what the agency described as "mobile robots" that walk on two or four legs, mimicking human or animal movement. Notably, most humanoid robots currently sold in the United States are manufactured overseas, particularly in China. Also read | Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI? National security concerns According to the FCC, the decision follows recommendations from a White House task force, which concluded that foreign-built robots could pose cybersecurity risks to critical infrastructure and threaten the safety and security of US residents. The administration said the robots could potentially be exploited for surveillance, data collection or cyber intrusions. Among the cases cited by the task force was that of French programmer Sammy Azdoufal, who reportedly gained access to data from thousands of robotic vacuum cleaners manufactured by Chinese company DJI. The FCC's blacklist already includes certain drones as well as Chinese telecommunications firms Huawei and China Telecom. The agency also expanded the blacklist to include foreign-made inverters, devices used to convert direct current from batteries or solar panels into alternating current for use on the electrical grid. Also read | India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes Ban applies only to future models The restrictions will apply only to new robot models seeking approval for the US market. Robots that have already been authorised or sold in the country will not be affected. The Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security will retain the authority to grant exemptions where necessary. A Trump administration official told AFP that the ban covers both robots imported fully assembled and those assembled in the United States if more than 35 per cent of their components are manufactured abroad. Push to boost US robotics manufacturing? The move comes as the Trump administration continues to encourage domestic manufacturing of advanced technologies, including robotics. Several companies already produce or assemble humanoid robots in the United States, including Boston Dynamics, Tesla, Figure AI and Agility Robotics. South Korean automaker Hyundai, which recently acquired Boston Dynamics, has announced plans to build a robotics factory in the United States capable of producing 30,000 robots annually. Elon Musk's Tesla is also preparing to begin industrial production of its Optimus humanoid robot at factories in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas. The company says it ultimately aims to produce 1 million robots annually in Fremont and 10 million annually in Austin, although current plans focus primarily on assembly rather than full-scale manufacturing. Meanwhile, Figure AI assembles robots at its facility in San Jose, California, while Agility Robotics operates a factory in Salem, Oregon, with an annual production capacity of 10,000 robots.

The Trump administration has banned the import of foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots on national security grounds, citing cybersecurity risks posed by advanced robotic devices while seeking to boost domestic robotics manufacturing.

Making way for Musk's Optimus? Trump administration bans foreign-made humanoid robots. Here's why

Oil prices surged more than 3 per cent in early Asian trading on Wednesday (Jul 29) after the United States military said it had intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran. At around 0015 GMT, US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 3.67 per cent to $82.17 a barrel, while Brent crude climbed 3.39 per cent to $86.94 a barrel.The sharp gains came after US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had launched multiple ballistic missiles targeting US forces in the Middle East.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-avoids-higher-us-tariff-secures-lower-10-rate-here-s-how-1784854529326">India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how</a><h2>US intercepts Iranian missiles</h2>"At 5:45 pm ET today, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on US forces based in the Middle East," CENTCOM said in a post on X.It added that all of the missiles were successfully intercepted, without disclosing the locations that were targeted.The latest exchange shattered a days-long pause in direct attacks between Washington and Tehran. The two sides had largely held fire over the weekend after nearly two weeks of nightly US strikes on Iran and repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting American allies across the Gulf.The current escalation began in mid-July after Iran attacked several ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-has-evil-intentions-vows-it-will-never-get-nuclear-weapons-rubio-warns-iran-will-continue-to-pay-a-very-heavy-price-1784857820016">Trump warns Iran has 'evil intentions', vows it will 'never' get nuclear weapons</a><h2>Fears of wider regional conflict resurface</h2>Oil prices had fallen sharply during the weekend lull as markets grew hopeful that tensions were easing. Investor sentiment was further supported after US President Donald Trump said there was a "good chance" of progress in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.However, Tuesday's missile launch reignited fears of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt crude supplies from the Middle East, prompting traders to push oil prices sharply higher.

Global oil prices rose more than 3% after the US military said it intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran at American forces in the Middle East, reigniting fears of a wider regional conflict and potential disruptions to crude supplies.

Oil prices surged more than 3 per cent in early Asian trading on Wednesday (Jul 29) after the United States military said it had intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran. At around 0015 GMT, US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 3.67 per cent to $82.17 a barrel, while Brent crude climbed 3.39 per cent to $86.94 a barrel. The sharp gains came after US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had launched multiple ballistic missiles targeting US forces in the Middle East. Also read | India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how US intercepts Iranian missiles "At 5:45 pm ET today, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on US forces based in the Middle East," CENTCOM said in a post on X. It added that all of the missiles were successfully intercepted, without disclosing the locations that were targeted. The latest exchange shattered a days-long pause in direct attacks between Washington and Tehran. The two sides had largely held fire over the weekend after nearly two weeks of nightly US strikes on Iran and repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting American allies across the Gulf. The current escalation began in mid-July after Iran attacked several ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. Also read | Trump warns Iran has 'evil intentions', vows it will 'never' get nuclear weapons Fears of wider regional conflict resurface Oil prices had fallen sharply during the weekend lull as markets grew hopeful that tensions were easing. Investor sentiment was further supported after US President Donald Trump said there was a "good chance" of progress in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. However, Tuesday's missile launch reignited fears of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt crude supplies from the Middle East, prompting traders to push oil prices sharply higher.

Global oil prices rose more than 3% after the US military said it intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran at American forces in the Middle East, reigniting fears of a wider regional conflict and potential disruptions to crude supplies.

Oil prices jump over 3% after US says it intercepted Iranian missile attack

A heartbreaking video from the devastating Assam floods has surfaced on the internet. The video shows a father submerged in neck-deep flood water with three children in a tub, as he pushed through in search of safe highlands. The video shows the children are scared and sobbing continuously as their father tries to rescue them. It was shared by the Indian Youth Congress on its Instagram handle and racked up over 215,000 views. While many praised the courage of the father to risk his own life to save his children, others criticised the lack of rescue boats and other safety infrastructure.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Amid Assam&#39;s devastating floods, a father was seen swimming through floodwaters while carrying his children in a large tub to safety. The viral visuals have become a powerful symbol of a parent&#39;s courage, sacrifice, and unconditional love.<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AssamFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssamFloods</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/FloodRescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FloodRescue</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Father?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Father</a> <a href="https://t.co/uz5ZousOSM">pic.twitter.com/uz5ZousOSM</a>&mdash; Apka Aashish (@ApkaAashish) <a href="https://x.com/ApkaAashish/status/2081983125257883750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>68 people died in devastating upper Assam flood</h2>Assam is witnessing a devastating flood; 68 people have died, while around 40 are missing and around 4.45 lakh people remain affected across six districts: Sivasagar, Golaghat, Charaideo, Jorhat, Nagaon and Kamrup. Multiple agencies, including NDRF, SDRF and civil defence personnel, are carrying out rescue operations in the affected areas. Around 67 boats are deployed in the affected areas, according to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority bulletin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-two-protesters-isfahan-january-2026-unrest-1785238730473">Iran publicly executes two protesters in Isfahan over January unrest</a>In every monsoon season, floods are a recurring theme in Assam. According to the National Flood Commission, roughly 40 per cent of the state is flood-prone. Every monsoon season, heavy rainwater increases the volume of the two major rivers, Brahmaputra and Barak, and their tributaries, which then inundate the nearby plains, wreaking havoc on the livelihoods of people.This monsoon season, exceptionally heavy rain and cloudbursts across parts of neighbouring Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Assam have triggered floods, which have been described by Irrigation Minister Pijush Hazarika as the worst in six decades. Unlike other years, it was not the Brahmaputra that swelled and gradually inundated the flat plains from east to west. But this year it was a sudden rise in water level in tributaries like Dhansiri, Dikhow, and Jhanji, which usually work as the natural drainage system for the Brahmaputra. This flood submerged the relatively safer upper Assam region of the state.&nbsp;

A viral video from the Assam floods shows a father wading through neck-deep water with his three children. The state has reported 68 deaths and over 4.45 lakh people affected.

A heartbreaking video from the devastating Assam floods has surfaced on the internet. The video shows a father submerged in neck-deep flood water with three children in a tub, as he pushed through in search of safe highlands. The video shows the children are scared and sobbing continuously as their father tries to rescue them. It was shared by the Indian Youth Congress on its Instagram handle and racked up over 215,000 views. While many praised the courage of the father to risk his own life to save his children, others criticised the lack of rescue boats and other safety infrastructure.

A viral video from the Assam floods shows a father wading through neck-deep water with his three children. The state has reported 68 deaths and over 4.45 lakh people affected.

Heartbreaking video shows Assam father carrying three children through neck-deep floodwaters

A think tank report has claimed that Russia is spreading disinformation by manipulating AI. It is spreading false narratives on websites and social media platforms, which the AI models are retrieving and regurgitating, thus giving users wrong information. This new form of information warfare has been dubbed "Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) poisoning". Commenting on the research done by think tank Demos, shadow technology secretary Julia Lopez said on Monday, "As AI becomes a primary source of information for millions of people, hostile states will inevitably seek to manipulate these systems just as we have seen on social media and search engines," the Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;She added that "governments must ensure AI companies have robust safeguards to identify and clearly label state-backed disinformation." The authors of the report state that as more and more depend on AI tools for information, “whoever controls what those systems retrieve and believe gains enormous leverage.”<h2>AI tools favoured a foundation sanctioned by EU</h2>RAG poisoning means that the information on the internet is manipulated so that AI models draw from it and amplify false and misleading claims. Demos found that five frontier AI tools cited information about the Russian outlet Foundation to Battle Injustice (FBI) after suspected RAG poisoning. This favour happened despite it being sanctioned by the European Union.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-rambles-against-ukraine-on-tv-after-cancelling-navy-day-parade-fearing-an-attack-1785137839555">Putin rambles in TV speech after cancelling Navy Day parade fearing an attack by Ukraine</a>&nbsp;The body is a fake human-rights defence group formed by Wagner group founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in March 2021. It is used as a front for Russian state influence and disinformation campaigns. However, when further checks were carried out, 31 per cent of the AI responses did not identify the FBI as a sanctioned group. The think tank also noted that around half of them debunked the false claims made by the FBI.&nbsp;British AI minister Kanishka Narayan said that British voters are rightfully worried about the risks of the technology, and there are groups that are constantly working to spread disinformation through AI models.

A report has claimed that Russia is poisoning the internet with false narratives in a bid to manipulate AI tools so that it gives wrong information to people accessing them for news and other things.  

A think tank report has claimed that Russia is spreading disinformation by manipulating AI. It is spreading false narratives on websites and social media platforms, which the AI models are retrieving and regurgitating, thus giving users wrong information. This new form of information warfare has been dubbed "Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) poisoning". Commenting on the research done by think tank Demos, shadow technology secretary Julia Lopez said on Monday, "As AI becomes a primary source of information for millions of people, hostile states will inevitably seek to manipulate these systems just as we have seen on social media and search engines," the Daily Mail reported. She added that "governments must ensure AI companies have robust safeguards to identify and clearly label state-backed disinformation." The authors of the report state that as more and more depend on AI tools for information, “whoever controls what those systems retrieve and believe gains enormous leverage.” AI tools favoured a foundation sanctioned by EU RAG poisoning means that the information on the internet is manipulated so that AI models draw from it and amplify false and misleading claims. Demos found that five frontier AI tools cited information about the Russian outlet Foundation to Battle Injustice (FBI) after suspected RAG poisoning. This favour happened despite it being sanctioned by the European Union. Also Read: Putin rambles in TV speech after cancelling Navy Day parade fearing an attack by Ukraine The body is a fake human-rights defence group formed by Wagner group founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in March 2021. It is used as a front for Russian state influence and disinformation campaigns. However, when further checks were carried out, 31 per cent of the AI responses did not identify the FBI as a sanctioned group. The think tank also noted that around half of them debunked the false claims made by the FBI. British AI minister Kanishka Narayan said that British voters are rightfully worried about the risks of the technology, and there are groups that are constantly working to spread disinformation through AI models.

A report has claimed that Russia is poisoning the internet with false narratives in a bid to manipulate AI tools so that it gives wrong information to people accessing them for news and other things. &nbsp;

Information warfare: Russia poisoning AI tools to amplify false claims, think tank claims

Maleeha Lodhi, former Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN in New York, criticised PM Shehbaz Sharif after he expressed solidarity with Spain and France over devastating wildfires, contrasting his response with the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Her response came after Shehbaz Sharif said in a post on X, "The devastating wildfires affecting France and the immense hardship they have caused are deeply disturbing and alarming. On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to President Emmanuel Macron, the Government of France, and the French people, especially those who have been displaced or otherwise affected by this tragedy." "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those battling these fires and the communities in their path. We hope the situation is brought under control at the earliest and that recovery efforts progress swiftly. Pakistan stands in solidarity with France during this difficult time and remains ready to extend any assistance that may be required," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The devastating wildfires affecting France and the immense hardship they have caused is deeply disturbing and alarming. On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to President Emmanuel Macron, the Government of…&mdash; Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://x.com/CMShehbaz/status/2081799162597884396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reacting to the remarks, Maleeha Lodhi took to X to question the Prime Minister's silence on the situation closer home. "No sorrow over those killed in AJK today in crackdown on protestors?" she wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">No sorrow over those killed in AJK today in crackdown on protestors ? <a href="https://t.co/zHfVY45ked">https://t.co/zHfVY45ked</a>&mdash; Maleeha Lodhi (@LodhiMaleeha) <a href="https://x.com/LodhiMaleeha/status/2081820386027880624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-a-spacex-rocket-crash-into-the-moon-at-8-750-km-hr-on-this-day-1785224201496">Watch a SpaceX rocket crash into the moon at 8,750 km/hr on THIS day</a><h2>Netizens react</h2>After Lodhi's statement on X, netizens flooded her comment sections with mixed opinions over the issue in PoK and Pakistan's PM's response. One of the netizens said, "Madam, our leadership is totally concerned with international matters, whether mediation or any other issue, least bothered about domestic issues which are becoming more unmanageable either politically or kinetically." The next lashed out at PM and said," What do you expect from these morally crept vultures ruling class in Pakistan for the last 50 years under the umbrella of corrupt generals,… for them value of human life is less than a tree. Hard state bullets to the peaceful protesters. Shameful." Another hit out at Lodhi and said, "Sadly you are one of them. You have always defended these type of states atrocities." "He is gutless. Making out to be a worlds statesman whilst his own house burns and he turns to face the other way."the next also said. Maleeha Lodhi's comment comes against the backdrop of ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where demonstrations led by the Pakistan-administered Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) have continued for weeks. The protests, which began in June, stem from opposition to reserved legislative seats for Kashmiri refugees residing elsewhere in Pakistan, with demonstrators demanding greater political representation for PoK residents. The unrest has intensified in recent weeks, with clashes reported between protestors and security forces in areas including Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, resulting in casualties among both civilians and law enforcement personnel.&nbsp;

Maleeha Lodhi's comment comes against the backdrop of ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where demonstrations led by the Pakistan-administered Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) have continued for weeks. 

Maleeha Lodhi, former Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN in New York, criticised PM Shehbaz Sharif after he expressed solidarity with Spain and France over devastating wildfires, contrasting his response with the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Her response came after Shehbaz Sharif said in a post on X, "The devastating wildfires affecting France and the immense hardship they have caused are deeply disturbing and alarming. On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to President Emmanuel Macron, the Government of France, and the French people, especially those who have been displaced or otherwise affected by this tragedy." "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those battling these fires and the communities in their path. We hope the situation is brought under control at the earliest and that recovery efforts progress swiftly. Pakistan stands in solidarity with France during this difficult time and remains ready to extend any assistance that may be required," he added.

Maleeha Lodhi's comment comes against the backdrop of ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where demonstrations led by the Pakistan-administered Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) have continued for weeks.&nbsp;

'No sorrow for PoK?': Ex-Pak envoy questions Shehbaz Sharif's silence amid his wildfire solidarity for France

Anthony Fauci, the public face of America's Covid-19 pandemic response, kept a diary in which he once described US President Donald Trump as "the smartest person in the world" and "really a famous guy", before his views soured. More than 1,141 pages of material spanning December 2019 to December 2022 have been publicly released. Described in the US media as Fauci's "meticulous notes", these were obtained through congressional oversight, document requests and subpoenas rather than voluntary release by Fauci. The former Chief Medical Advisor to the US President is due to testify before a key congressional committee on Wednesday (Jul 29). What else do the publicly released excerpts reveal? Fair warning: strong language ahead.<h2>What Fauci thought of Trump: From adoration to contempt</h2>The early years of their interaction during Trump's first term, which ended as Covid became a global pandemic, appeared cordial. But in an entry dated 27 February 2020, Fauci recounted urging Trump not to underplay the virus's seriousness, warning it could damage his re-election prospects if the outbreak worsened.Fauci later described Trump as "rambling", "getting out of control", and called some of his press briefings "a total s**t show".Among his strongest comments, Fauci described Trump as "desperate" about re-election, "a true embarrassment", "spewing nonsense" and "incorrigible". In a March 2021 entry, he also compared Trump's post-election conduct to that of Hitler, calling him "truly an obnoxious adolescent".<h2>Fauci noted down his tensions with White House staff</h2>The diaries also recorded his frustrations with then White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, who Fauci alleged had threatened to limit his television appearances, shouted at him and pushed for softer public messaging.Fauci also called Michael Caputo, the then US Department of Health and Human Services spokesman, "a con man who is completely full of sh**."<h2>Fauci on Covid origins and the lab-leak theory: Did he favour the Covid natural-origin hypothesis?</h2>One of the biggest controversies surrounding the pandemic has been ‘the lab-leak theory’, which argued that the Covid virus may have escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Fauci later faced criticism over NIH-funded research involving EcoHealth Alliance and its links to research conducted with the Wuhan Institute of Virology.But in his diary entries, Fauci appeared to oppose the Lab theory. In a diary entry dated 26 January 2020, Fauci wrote: "The first infection was in early December and was not connected to the [Wuhan] market... Now we know the market was not the source, it was the amplifier." He added that "somewhere the virus jumped from animals to humans."A 1 February 2020 entry describing a conference call with outside scientists recorded that only two participants favoured a natural origin, while most others felt "deliberate insertion was possible".The entries show Fauci documenting private scientific discussions about possible origins while publicly maintaining that more evidence and investigation were needed.&nbsp;In later entries, he dismissed some congressional allegations as "conspiracy theory-like" and "a waste of our time".Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lies-disinformation-censorship-gabbard-releases-never-before-seen-docs-to-prove-he-helped-bury-covid-lab-leak-evidence-china-wuhan-lab-1781858814910">'Lies. Disinformation. Censorship': Gabbard releases 'never-before-seen' docs to prove Fauci helped bury COVID files</a><h2>Fauci noted his growing public profile. Was it all about him?</h2>Fauci's multiple diary entries reflected on the intense media attention that he was getting at the time. A 21 March 2020 entry said: "Big front page article about me appeared in The Washington Post. Very flattering. The situation with my national and international fame is explosive and really unimaginable.""It is not hyperbole to say that today I am the most famous and talked about person in the country and one of the most recognisable people in the world," he wrote.Other entries include comments such as "Press is going wild with me", while referring to interactions with celebrities including Barbra Streisand, Julia Roberts, Steph Curry and Larry Ellison. He also noted merchandise such as "Fauci socks", "Fauci doughnuts", Fauci fan art and prayer candles.<h2>Fauci had influence on Covid restrictions in the US</h2>The diary entries suggest Fauci played an influential advisory role as governments considered restrictions during the pandemic. On 15 March 2020, he wrote: "I spoke with Bill de Blasio [the then New York Cit... and convinced him... to close the NYC schools... I went on to tell him he should close the bars and restaurants in NYC."Another entry has drawn attention because it records Fauci discussing with former CDC Director Tom Frieden an estimated Covid case fatality rate of "more like 0.2-0.3% rather than 2.0%". As scientific understanding evolved, Fauci later gave Congress higher estimates based on the information available at the time.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed</a><h2>How were the Fauci diary entries accessed, and what happens next?</h2>The diary entries and private notes were released recently by Republican Senator Rand Paul, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, as part of the committee's investigation into Covid origins and gain-of-function research.The release comes ahead of Fauci's testimony before the committee. Paul has argued the entries show differences between Fauci's private discussions and some of his public statements on issues including Covid origins and pandemic restrictions.<h2>Is Fauci's privacy violated by the release of the diary entries?</h2>Notes created during official duties by a senior federal official may be subject to the Federal Records Act and congressional oversight. The material was obtained through legal processes rather than Fauci's consent, raising broader questions about the balance between officials' expectations of privacy for work-related records and public accountability.<h2>Political controversy erupts over Fauci diary entries</h2>Republicans have cited the diary entries to question Fauci's credibility and highlight what they describe as inconsistencies between his private notes and public statements.Supporters of Fauci have argued that the excerpts have been released selectively and should be viewed in the broader context of rapidly evolving scientific evidence during the pandemic.Fauci continues to face political scrutiny. He also received a pre-emptive federal pardon from former President Joe Biden covering potential federal offences related to his official pandemic work, although it does not prevent congressional oversight or testimony.

More than 1,141 pages of Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diaries have been accessed by a key Congressional panel. Exceprts reveal his private views on Donald Trump, Covid origins, White House tensions. Fauci faces a Senate testimony. What do his alleged diary entries tell?



Anthony Fauci, the public face of America's Covid-19 pandemic response, kept a diary in which he once described US President Donald Trump as "the smartest person in the world" and "really a famous guy", before his views soured. More than 1,141 pages of material spanning December 2019 to December 2022 have been publicly released. Described in the US media as Fauci's "meticulous notes", these were obtained through congressional oversight, document requests and subpoenas rather than voluntary release by Fauci. The former Chief Medical Advisor to the US President is due to testify before a key congressional committee on Wednesday (Jul 29). What else do the publicly released excerpts reveal? Fair warning: strong language ahead. What Fauci thought of Trump: From adoration to contempt The early years of their interaction during Trump's first term, which ended as Covid became a global pandemic, appeared cordial. But in an entry dated 27 February 2020, Fauci recounted urging Trump not to underplay the virus's seriousness, warning it could damage his re-election prospects if the outbreak worsened. Fauci later described Trump as "rambling", "getting out of control", and called some of his press briefings "a total s**t show". Among his strongest comments, Fauci described Trump as "desperate" about re-election, "a true embarrassment", "spewing nonsense" and "incorrigible". In a March 2021 entry, he also compared Trump's post-election conduct to that of Hitler, calling him "truly an obnoxious adolescent". Fauci noted down his tensions with White House staff The diaries also recorded his frustrations with then White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, who Fauci alleged had threatened to limit his television appearances, shouted at him and pushed for softer public messaging. Fauci also called Michael Caputo, the then US Department of Health and Human Services spokesman, "a con man who is completely full of sh**." Fauci on Covid origins and the lab-leak theory: Did he favour the Covid natural-origin hypothesis? One of the biggest controversies surrounding the pandemic has been ‘the lab-leak theory’, which argued that the Covid virus may have escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Fauci later faced criticism over NIH-funded research involving EcoHealth Alliance and its links to research conducted with the Wuhan Institute of Virology. But in his diary entries, Fauci appeared to oppose the Lab theory. In a diary entry dated 26 January 2020, Fauci wrote: "The first infection was in early December and was not connected to the [Wuhan] market... Now we know the market was not the source, it was the amplifier." He added that "somewhere the virus jumped from animals to humans." A 1 February 2020 entry describing a conference call with outside scientists recorded that only two participants favoured a natural origin, while most others felt "deliberate insertion was possible". The entries show Fauci documenting private scientific discussions about possible origins while publicly maintaining that more evidence and investigation were needed. In later entries, he dismissed some congressional allegations as "conspiracy theory-like" and "a waste of our time". Also read: 'Lies. Disinformation. Censorship': Gabbard releases 'never-before-seen' docs to prove Fauci helped bury COVID files Fauci noted his growing public profile. Was it all about him? Fauci's multiple diary entries reflected on the intense media attention that he was getting at the time. A 21 March 2020 entry said: "Big front page article about me appeared in The Washington Post. Very flattering. The situation with my national and international fame is explosive and really unimaginable." "It is not hyperbole to say that today I am the most famous and talked about person in the country and one of the most recognisable people in the world," he wrote. Other entries include comments such as "Press is going wild with me", while referring to interactions with celebrities including Barbra Streisand, Julia Roberts, Steph Curry and Larry Ellison. He also noted merchandise such as "Fauci socks", "Fauci doughnuts", Fauci fan art and prayer candles. Fauci had influence on Covid restrictions in the US The diary entries suggest Fauci played an influential advisory role as governments considered restrictions during the pandemic. On 15 March 2020, he wrote: "I spoke with Bill de Blasio [the then New York Cit... and convinced him... to close the NYC schools... I went on to tell him he should close the bars and restaurants in NYC." Another entry has drawn attention because it records Fauci discussing with former CDC Director Tom Frieden an estimated Covid case fatality rate of "more like 0.2-0.3% rather than 2.0%". As scientific understanding evolved, Fauci later gave Congress higher estimates based on the information available at the time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed How were the Fauci diary entries accessed, and what happens next? The diary entries and private notes were released recently by Republican Senator Rand Paul, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, as part of the committee's investigation into Covid origins and gain-of-function research. The release comes ahead of Fauci's testimony before the committee. Paul has argued the entries show differences between Fauci's private discussions and some of his public statements on issues including Covid origins and pandemic restrictions. Is Fauci's privacy violated by the release of the diary entries? Notes created during official duties by a senior federal official may be subject to the Federal Records Act and congressional oversight. The material was obtained through legal processes rather than Fauci's consent, raising broader questions about the balance between officials' expectations of privacy for work-related records and public accountability. Political controversy erupts over Fauci diary entries Republicans have cited the diary entries to question Fauci's credibility and highlight what they describe as inconsistencies between his private notes and public statements. Supporters of Fauci have argued that the excerpts have been released selectively and should be viewed in the broader context of rapidly evolving scientific evidence during the pandemic. Fauci continues to face political scrutiny. He also received a pre-emptive federal pardon from former President Joe Biden covering potential federal offences related to his official pandemic work, although it does not prevent congressional oversight or testimony.

More than 1,141 pages of Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diaries have been accessed by a key Congressional panel. Exceprts reveal his private views on Donald Trump, Covid origins, White House tensions. Fauci faces a Senate testimony. What do his alleged diary entries tell?&nbsp;

'Total s**t show': Fauci diaries reveal what Covid tsar thought about Trump and his own rising fame. What else is in the notes?

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s return to Parliament on Monday (Jul 27) was marked by high political drama. Greeted with high-energy chants of "Dharmendra Pradhan zindabad" from BJP and NDA MPs, his reception immediately drew sharp criticism from Opposition benches. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for celebrating following weeks of intense scrutiny over the NEET paper leak controversy that triggered Pradhan’s resignation.The show of solidarity inside Parliament has reignited a crucial question: after stepping down from the Cabinet, does Pradhan return to the BJP’s organizational engine room, or is a political comeback on the horizon? While the party leadership has made no official announcement, the public display of support makes one thing clear: Pradhan remains a key political asset for the BJP.<h2>What's next for Pradhan?</h2>If the BJP does choose to redeploy Pradhan, the safest bet, for now, appears to be the organisation rather than the Cabinet. Pradhan has long been described as one of the party's seasoned election managers. Within the BJP, he has long been regarded as an experienced organisation builder and election strategist, having previously served as the party's National General Secretary and as election or organisational in-charge for states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.That track record matters because the BJP tends to lean on senior leaders who understand booth-level strategy, coalition arithmetic and campaign management. The party has already used Pradhan in this role before, including as Bihar election in-charge, which reinforces the sense that he remains an asset in state-level battles.While a return to the election machinery, whether in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab or another state, would fit his resume, there is no official BJP announcement pointing to that assignment yet.<h2>Odisha remains his natural turf</h2>If the BJP wants to use Pradhan where he already has political weight, Odisha is the obvious place to look. Reuters describes him as a key figure in the state's BJP rise, with deep roots in the party's organisation and a record of helping shape its electoral gains there.That makes a larger Odisha role, or even a broader national organisational assignment, more plausible than a random return to a ministry. It would also allow the party to use him where he is already known as a strategist rather than simply a former minister.<h2>A Cabinet return in the cards?</h2>Given the apparent hatred for Pradhan among Gen Z and the younger generations, a quick return to government doesn't seem plausible.The education ministry has already been handed to Pralhad Joshi, and BJP leader Sambit Patra has dismissed reports suggesting that Pradhan was offered a new portfolio as "fictional" and "unfounded."However, that does not rule out a Cabinet role later, but it does make an immediate comeback to government less likely than a return to party work. For now, the official picture is simple: Pradhan remains an influential BJP face, but there is no confirmed assignment beyond his role as a sitting MP.<h2>So, what next for Dharmendra Pradhan?</h2>While Pradhan's future remains undecided, the evidence points more strongly toward an organisational or election-management role than a fresh Cabinet berth. His experience in Odisha and multiple states gives the BJP a ready-made strategist if it chooses to deploy him again. Notably, until the party says otherwise, all this remains speculation.

Dharmendra Pradhan's warm welcome by BJP and NDA MPs in Parliament has reignited speculation over his political future. While the party has announced no new role, here's what may be in his future.

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s return to Parliament on Monday (Jul 27) was marked by high political drama. Greeted with high-energy chants of "Dharmendra Pradhan zindabad" from BJP and NDA MPs, his reception immediately drew sharp criticism from Opposition benches. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for celebrating following weeks of intense scrutiny over the NEET paper leak controversy that triggered Pradhan’s resignation. The show of solidarity inside Parliament has reignited a crucial question: after stepping down from the Cabinet, does Pradhan return to the BJP’s organizational engine room, or is a political comeback on the horizon? While the party leadership has made no official announcement, the public display of support makes one thing clear: Pradhan remains a key political asset for the BJP. What's next for Pradhan? If the BJP does choose to redeploy Pradhan, the safest bet, for now, appears to be the organisation rather than the Cabinet. Pradhan has long been described as one of the party's seasoned election managers. Within the BJP, he has long been regarded as an experienced organisation builder and election strategist, having previously served as the party's National General Secretary and as election or organisational in-charge for states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. That track record matters because the BJP tends to lean on senior leaders who understand booth-level strategy, coalition arithmetic and campaign management. The party has already used Pradhan in this role before, including as Bihar election in-charge, which reinforces the sense that he remains an asset in state-level battles. While a return to the election machinery, whether in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab or another state, would fit his resume, there is no official BJP announcement pointing to that assignment yet. Odisha remains his natural turf If the BJP wants to use Pradhan where he already has political weight, Odisha is the obvious place to look. Reuters describes him as a key figure in the state's BJP rise, with deep roots in the party's organisation and a record of helping shape its electoral gains there. That makes a larger Odisha role, or even a broader national organisational assignment, more plausible than a random return to a ministry. It would also allow the party to use him where he is already known as a strategist rather than simply a former minister. A Cabinet return in the cards? Given the apparent hatred for Pradhan among Gen Z and the younger generations, a quick return to government doesn't seem plausible. The education ministry has already been handed to Pralhad Joshi, and BJP leader Sambit Patra has dismissed reports suggesting that Pradhan was offered a new portfolio as "fictional" and "unfounded." However, that does not rule out a Cabinet role later, but it does make an immediate comeback to government less likely than a return to party work. For now, the official picture is simple: Pradhan remains an influential BJP face, but there is no confirmed assignment beyond his role as a sitting MP. So, what next for Dharmendra Pradhan? While Pradhan's future remains undecided, the evidence points more strongly toward an organisational or election-management role than a fresh Cabinet berth. His experience in Odisha and multiple states gives the BJP a ready-made strategist if it chooses to deploy him again. Notably, until the party says otherwise, all this remains speculation.

Dharmendra Pradhan's warm welcome by BJP and NDA MPs in Parliament has reignited speculation over his political future. While the party has announced no new role, here's what may be in his future.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s parliament return sparks comeback speculation: What’s next for the BJP heavyweight? | WION Decodes

Super El Niño is affecting tea crops in the Nilgiris this season, according to a paper, which warns that rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns are spelling trouble for the plantations in the region. P Murugesan, author of the paper and Advisory Officer at the UPASI Tea Research Foundation Regional Centre in Coonoor, said that tea tracts in South India are not governed by "the quantum of total annual rainfall but by its temporal distribution." So even if the annual rainfall is fine, "an increase in dry-day frequency and a rise in short-duration high-intensity rainfall events could lead to agronomically significant moisture deficits."&nbsp;Tea is harvested continuously as young shoots, and is vulnerable to even the slightest change in climate. An increasingly hot Earth affects shoot growth, internodal length, harvesting time, yield, quality and long-term bush health. Temperature, soil moisture, irradiance, and humidity dictate the crop’s growth and overall leaf quality. Murugesan wrote in “Super El Niño: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for The Nilgiris" that there hasn't been a drastic drop in total annual rainfall volume in the region, as per the meteorological data.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sharks-expected-to-invade-california-beaches-as-super-el-nino-heats-up-the-pacific-1784627452211">Sharks expected to invade California beaches as Super El Niño heats up the Pacific</a>&nbsp;However, there has been a higher frequency of dry days and short-duration, high-intensity rainfall events. The average temperature has increased by approximately 0.5 degrees Celsius, and the geographic reach of frost and hailstorm damage has expanded, long-term observatory data from the Nilgiris shows.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-satellite-spots-strongest-sign-of-super-el-nino-confirming-all-predictions-what-to-expect-1780666935157">NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Niño, confirming all predictions - What to expect?</a>&nbsp;“Because tea shoots are harvested continuously, these volatile conditions directly affect internodal length, shoot development, and harvesting schedules, ultimately threatening long-term bush health and crop yields,” Murugesan said.<h2>Steps to protect tea plantation from El Nino</h2>As Earth continues to become warmer, and threats like Super El Niño continue to become stronger, he says there is a need for steps to mitigate the effects. He has called for immediate field-level interventions including strategic shade management, optimising canopy cover using shade trees such as Gliricidia sepium to regulate microclimates and protect tea bushes. “The governing principle for tea management under Super El Niño conditions is unambiguous. So, protect the bush before protecting the crop," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The tea plantations in the Nilgiris have fallen victim to Super El Niño, according to a paper. Scientists say dry days have increased in the region even though annual rainfall has not dropped significantly. This has affected the crop

Super El Niño is affecting tea crops in the Nilgiris this season, according to a paper, which warns that rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns are spelling trouble for the plantations in the region. P Murugesan, author of the paper and Advisory Officer at the UPASI Tea Research Foundation Regional Centre in Coonoor, said that tea tracts in South India are not governed by "the quantum of total annual rainfall but by its temporal distribution." So even if the annual rainfall is fine, "an increase in dry-day frequency and a rise in short-duration high-intensity rainfall events could lead to agronomically significant moisture deficits." Tea is harvested continuously as young shoots, and is vulnerable to even the slightest change in climate. An increasingly hot Earth affects shoot growth, internodal length, harvesting time, yield, quality and long-term bush health. Temperature, soil moisture, irradiance, and humidity dictate the crop’s growth and overall leaf quality. Murugesan wrote in “Super El Niño: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for The Nilgiris" that there hasn't been a drastic drop in total annual rainfall volume in the region, as per the meteorological data. Also Read: Sharks expected to invade California beaches as Super El Niño heats up the Pacific However, there has been a higher frequency of dry days and short-duration, high-intensity rainfall events. The average temperature has increased by approximately 0.5 degrees Celsius, and the geographic reach of frost and hailstorm damage has expanded, long-term observatory data from the Nilgiris shows. Also Read: NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Niño, confirming all predictions - What to expect? “Because tea shoots are harvested continuously, these volatile conditions directly affect internodal length, shoot development, and harvesting schedules, ultimately threatening long-term bush health and crop yields,” Murugesan said. Steps to protect tea plantation from El Nino As Earth continues to become warmer, and threats like Super El Niño continue to become stronger, he says there is a need for steps to mitigate the effects. He has called for immediate field-level interventions including strategic shade management, optimising canopy cover using shade trees such as Gliricidia sepium to regulate microclimates and protect tea bushes. “The governing principle for tea management under Super El Niño conditions is unambiguous. So, protect the bush before protecting the crop," he said.

The tea plantations in the Nilgiris have fallen victim to Super El Niño, according to a paper. Scientists say dry days have increased in the region even though annual rainfall has not dropped significantly. This has affected the crop

Dry days from Super El Niño claim an Indian favourite victim in the Nilgiris

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stage that has been tumbling in space since January 2025 is set to crash into the Moon next month. The event will also be visible from Earth, provided you have a telescope. The rocket will carve a new crater in the Moon, throwing plumes of lunar dust several kilometres high in the air.&nbsp;The rocket delivered Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander and ispace's Resilience lander towards the Moon in 2025. But it did not have enough fuel left to return to Earth's atmosphere or take a trip into deep space. It has been in an unstable orbit since then after escaping Earth's gravity. It has now been caught in the Moon's gravity and is moving towards it. An upcoming collision will be visible from Earth.<h2>When will SpaceX rocket crash into Moon?</h2> The rocket will collide with the Moon on August 5. The impact will happen near the Einstein Crater at 12:05 pm IST. A new study that hasn't been peer-reviewed yet has presented what to expect from the crash. Astronomer Bill Gray tracked the object using his Project Pluto software and was the first to reveal the details of the impact.<h2>How big is the SpaceX rocket?</h2>The SpaceX rocket is nearly 40 feet long, 13 feet wide, and weighs 4,000 kg. It will strike the Moon at a speed of nearly 8,750 km/hr. It will gouge a crater in the lunar surface measuring about 65 to 100 feet wide. It will send lunar regolith flying for several kilometres into the air. The rocket itself is expected to fall apart since it is hollow.&nbsp;Since the event is happening during the day, professional and amateur astronomers can see the flash and dust plume, and even click pictures if they have cameras suited for the event.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Moon will have a new crater soon, which will be made by a man-made object. A SpaceX rocket is tumbling towards the Moon and will crash next month. You can see the impact, flash and plume of dust from Earth.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stage that has been tumbling in space since January 2025 is set to crash into the Moon next month. The event will also be visible from Earth, provided you have a telescope. The rocket will carve a new crater in the Moon, throwing plumes of lunar dust several kilometres high in the air. The rocket delivered Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander and ispace's Resilience lander towards the Moon in 2025. But it did not have enough fuel left to return to Earth's atmosphere or take a trip into deep space. It has been in an unstable orbit since then after escaping Earth's gravity. It has now been caught in the Moon's gravity and is moving towards it. An upcoming collision will be visible from Earth. When will SpaceX rocket crash into Moon? The rocket will collide with the Moon on August 5. The impact will happen near the Einstein Crater at 12:05 pm IST. A new study that hasn't been peer-reviewed yet has presented what to expect from the crash. Astronomer Bill Gray tracked the object using his Project Pluto software and was the first to reveal the details of the impact. How big is the SpaceX rocket? The SpaceX rocket is nearly 40 feet long, 13 feet wide, and weighs 4,000 kg. It will strike the Moon at a speed of nearly 8,750 km/hr. It will gouge a crater in the lunar surface measuring about 65 to 100 feet wide. It will send lunar regolith flying for several kilometres into the air. The rocket itself is expected to fall apart since it is hollow. Since the event is happening during the day, professional and amateur astronomers can see the flash and dust plume, and even click pictures if they have cameras suited for the event.

The Moon will have a new crater soon, which will be made by a man-made object. A SpaceX rocket is tumbling towards the Moon and will crash next month. You can see the impact, flash and plume of dust from Earth.

Watch a SpaceX rocket crash into the moon at 8,750 km/hr on THIS day

A social media influencer was reportedly killed by her estranged husband less than two weeks after she uploaded a video on TikTok accusing him of being a paedophile, according to police and court records. Police indicated that the 43-year-old woman, identified as Sara Gilson, also known as Sara Duffey, was discovered dead with a gunshot wound. She was found dead alongside her 48-year-old estranged husband, Jeremiah Shawn Duffey, at their home in Collinsville, a suburb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the US, on Thursday night. Investigators suspected that Duffey shot Gilson before ending his own life. However, the case is still under investigation. The deaths occurred weeks after Gilson had filed for a protective order on 10 June to keep Duffey away from the family residence. Court documents indicate that the same day, another woman also sought a protective order, alleging Duffey had acted inappropriately towards her teenage daughter. The legal filings cited by The Oklahoman claim a fellow youth basketball coach reportedly witnessed Duffey kissing and touching the girl inappropriately.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-democratic-adaptation-gap-can-democracies-respond-before-the-streets-take-over-1785218274205">The democratic adaptation gap: Can democracies respond before the streets take over?</a><h2>How did the whole incident unfold?</h2>The filings additionally allege that the teenager later confided in her mother that Duffey had sent her inappropriate texts, invited her to his hotel room during basketball trips, and paid her money to stay silent. These claims were subsequently reported to police in Owasso, Oklahoma. In her own court filing, Gilson cited the allegations against Duffey and further claimed that he had access to guns, had threatened suicide and had "gone on the run". After a month, on 11 July, Gilson posted a sombre TikTok video on her account with tens of thousands of followers. Seated silently in a chair, on-screen text read: "Preparing for when Netflix drops a documentary about my soon-to-be ex-husband who I just found out is a paedophile." "I wish I were joking," she wrote in the caption. Twelve days later, that post, nearly at 11.15 pm on Thursday, police received a 911 call originating from inside the Collinsville home. Dispatchers reported hearing a woman screaming, followed by a sound resembling a gunshot, before the line went dead. Shortly after, a young boy called 911 from a neighbour's house, telling dispatchers that his stepfather had shot his mother, according to police. Upon arrival, officers discovered both Gilson and Duffey deceased, each having apparently sustained gunshot wounds to the head. Investigators suspect the incident was a murder-suicide, although the inquiry remains active. Gilson's son was placed in protective custody before being handed over to another parent uninvolved in the incident. She leaves behind a son and a daughter.&nbsp;

Sara Gilson was found dead alongside her 48-year-old estranged husband, Jeremiah Shawn Duffey, at their home in Collinsville, a suburb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the US, on Thursday night.

A social media influencer was reportedly killed by her estranged husband less than two weeks after she uploaded a video on TikTok accusing him of being a paedophile, according to police and court records. Police indicated that the 43-year-old woman, identified as Sara Gilson, also known as Sara Duffey, was discovered dead with a gunshot wound. She was found dead alongside her 48-year-old estranged husband, Jeremiah Shawn Duffey, at their home in Collinsville, a suburb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the US, on Thursday night. Investigators suspected that Duffey shot Gilson before ending his own life. However, the case is still under investigation. The deaths occurred weeks after Gilson had filed for a protective order on 10 June to keep Duffey away from the family residence. Court documents indicate that the same day, another woman also sought a protective order, alleging Duffey had acted inappropriately towards her teenage daughter. The legal filings cited by The Oklahoman claim a fellow youth basketball coach reportedly witnessed Duffey kissing and touching the girl inappropriately. Also read: The democratic adaptation gap: Can democracies respond before the streets take over? How did the whole incident unfold? The filings additionally allege that the teenager later confided in her mother that Duffey had sent her inappropriate texts, invited her to his hotel room during basketball trips, and paid her money to stay silent. These claims were subsequently reported to police in Owasso, Oklahoma. In her own court filing, Gilson cited the allegations against Duffey and further claimed that he had access to guns, had threatened suicide and had "gone on the run". After a month, on 11 July, Gilson posted a sombre TikTok video on her account with tens of thousands of followers. Seated silently in a chair, on-screen text read: "Preparing for when Netflix drops a documentary about my soon-to-be ex-husband who I just found out is a paedophile." "I wish I were joking," she wrote in the caption. Twelve days later, that post, nearly at 11.15 pm on Thursday, police received a 911 call originating from inside the Collinsville home. Dispatchers reported hearing a woman screaming, followed by a sound resembling a gunshot, before the line went dead. Shortly after, a young boy called 911 from a neighbour's house, telling dispatchers that his stepfather had shot his mother, according to police. Upon arrival, officers discovered both Gilson and Duffey deceased, each having apparently sustained gunshot wounds to the head. Investigators suspect the incident was a murder-suicide, although the inquiry remains active. Gilson's son was placed in protective custody before being handed over to another parent uninvolved in the incident. She leaves behind a son and a daughter.

&nbsp;Sara Gilson was found dead alongside her 48-year-old estranged husband, Jeremiah Shawn Duffey, at their home in Collinsville, a suburb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the US, on Thursday night.&nbsp;

US influencer killed by estranged husband weeks after accusing him of 'pedophilia' on TikTok

Meta on Tuesday (Jul 28) said Prime Minister Indian Narendra Modi's Facebook video on the government's response to examination paper leaks was briefly removed due to a technical error and has now been restored. "The content was removed in error and has since been restored," a Meta spokesperson said in a statement.The Meta-owned platform had briefly restricted access to the video in the early hours of July 28 before making it available again.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-warns-agitation-could-return-claims-bihar-assam-to-withdraw-firs-against-neet-protesters-1785206639381">CJP warns agitation could return; claims Bihar, Assam to withdraw FIRs against NEET protesters</a><h2>PM's first direct message to students</h2>The video, released on July 23, marked Prime Minister Modi's first direct address to Gen Z during the 36-day-long Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led agitation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 examination irregularities.In his address, Modi assured students that the government would introduce stronger legal measures to tackle examination paper leaks."I have issued directions to departments to set up Fast-Track Courts," the Prime Minister said, adding that a draft law providing for stringent punishment and special courts to deal with paper leak cases would be placed before the Union Cabinet and later introduced in Parliament.He also said the government had ensured that the academic year of nearly 22 lakh students was not disrupted. "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth," Modi said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-bjp-for-felicitating-dharmendra-pradhan-in-parliament-accuses-modi-government-of-celebrating-ruined-futures-1785202503666">Rahul Gandhi slams BJP for felicitating Dharmendra Pradhan in Parliament, accuses Modi government of 'celebrating ruined futures'</a><h2>Centre introduces anti-paper leak Bill</h2>The Prime Minister's remarks came amid nationwide protests demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities.The Centre has since introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament.The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the existing law by providing for imprisonment of up to 10 years, higher financial penalties and the establishment of Special Fast-Track Courts to hear paper leak cases.<h2>Protests ended after Pradhan's resignation</h2>The student agitation was formally called off on July 25 after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister.The Centre also reached an understanding with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk, agreeing to withdraw cases against protesters, prevent police intimidation and bring in stronger anti-paper leak legislation.

Meta said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook video outlining the government's response to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak was briefly removed due to a technical error before being restored, as the Centre moves ahead with tougher anti-paper leak legislation.

Meta on Tuesday (Jul 28) said Prime Minister Indian Narendra Modi's Facebook video on the government's response to examination paper leaks was briefly removed due to a technical error and has now been restored. "The content was removed in error and has since been restored," a Meta spokesperson said in a statement. The Meta-owned platform had briefly restricted access to the video in the early hours of July 28 before making it available again. Also read | CJP warns agitation could return; claims Bihar, Assam to withdraw FIRs against NEET protesters PM's first direct message to students The video, released on July 23, marked Prime Minister Modi's first direct address to Gen Z during the 36-day-long Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led agitation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 examination irregularities. In his address, Modi assured students that the government would introduce stronger legal measures to tackle examination paper leaks. "I have issued directions to departments to set up Fast-Track Courts," the Prime Minister said, adding that a draft law providing for stringent punishment and special courts to deal with paper leak cases would be placed before the Union Cabinet and later introduced in Parliament. He also said the government had ensured that the academic year of nearly 22 lakh students was not disrupted. "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth," Modi said. Also read | Rahul Gandhi slams BJP for felicitating Dharmendra Pradhan in Parliament, accuses Modi government of 'celebrating ruined futures' Centre introduces anti-paper leak Bill The Prime Minister's remarks came amid nationwide protests demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities. The Centre has since introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the existing law by providing for imprisonment of up to 10 years, higher financial penalties and the establishment of Special Fast-Track Courts to hear paper leak cases. Protests ended after Pradhan's resignation The student agitation was formally called off on July 25 after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister. The Centre also reached an understanding with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk, agreeing to withdraw cases against protesters, prevent police intimidation and bring in stronger anti-paper leak legislation.

Meta said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook video outlining the government's response to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak was briefly removed due to a technical error before being restored, as the Centre moves ahead with tougher anti-paper leak legislation.

Why did Meta remove PM Modi's Facebook video on paper leaks? Tech company blames 'technical error'

France has fined Infosys after gaps were found in the company's system for tracking employee working hours. The company disclosed in a stock exchange filing that it was asked to pay €175,000 (Rs 1.91 crore) for not complying with local labour regulations. French labour laws state that employees will work 35 hours a week, which could be extended in some positions and roles to 48 hours. This requires all companies to monitor the working hours of all employees, including those hired on a contractual basis.&nbsp;In a July 25 filing, Infosys said that its employee working time recording system was found to be non-compliant with local legal requirements. &nbsp;DRIEETS Île-de-France, the French labour authority, concluded that Infosys’ working time recording system did not fully comply with French labour laws. It found that the system’s reliability, auditability and monitoring capabilities had certain shortcomings for certain categories of employees, making it difficult for regulators or auditors to review and validate actual hours worked.<h2>France has strict labour laws</h2>France's labour laws require all companies to follow a set of rules. They need to monitor the working hours to ensure employees do not work more than the said hours, and if that happens, they are paid overtime as mandated by law. For salaried employees on forfait jours (fixed number of days per year), employers have to track the number of days worked. Overtime is paid at 125 per cent for the first eight hours when total hours exceed 35 hours, and the compensation jumps to 150 per cent thereafter.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-techie-with-h1-b-visa-deported-and-humiliated-by-ice-here-is-what-infosys-said-1768457903335">Indian techie with H1-B visa deported and humiliated by ICE? Here is what Infosys said</a>&nbsp;The filing does not specify which categories of Infosys employees were affected by the findings. Infosys said that it is reviewing the communication and that the fine would not impact its financials, operations or other business activities.&nbsp;<h2>Netizens react to Infosys being fined in France</h2>Meanwhile, Indians are talking about it on social media, especially since Narayana Murthy, Infosys founder, had called for a 70-hour work week in the country. One wrote, "Narayan Murthy crying somewhere in streets of India. This slavery mindset can only be applied to third world country like ours, but in Europe??" Another stated, "France's move is absolutely right. forcing employees to work excessive hours at the expense of their mental health and family life is completely unacceptable…"

Infosys has been fined nearly Rs 2 crore because its system for tracking employee working hours was found non-compliant with labour regulations. The country requires all companies to track the hours so that employees are not overworked without adequate overtime compensation. 

France has fined Infosys after gaps were found in the company's system for tracking employee working hours. The company disclosed in a stock exchange filing that it was asked to pay €175,000 (Rs 1.91 crore) for not complying with local labour regulations. French labour laws state that employees will work 35 hours a week, which could be extended in some positions and roles to 48 hours. This requires all companies to monitor the working hours of all employees, including those hired on a contractual basis. In a July 25 filing, Infosys said that its employee working time recording system was found to be non-compliant with local legal requirements. DRIEETS Île-de-France, the French labour authority, concluded that Infosys’ working time recording system did not fully comply with French labour laws. It found that the system’s reliability, auditability and monitoring capabilities had certain shortcomings for certain categories of employees, making it difficult for regulators or auditors to review and validate actual hours worked. France has strict labour laws France's labour laws require all companies to follow a set of rules. They need to monitor the working hours to ensure employees do not work more than the said hours, and if that happens, they are paid overtime as mandated by law. For salaried employees on forfait jours (fixed number of days per year), employers have to track the number of days worked. Overtime is paid at 125 per cent for the first eight hours when total hours exceed 35 hours, and the compensation jumps to 150 per cent thereafter. Also Read: Indian techie with H1-B visa deported and humiliated by ICE? Here is what Infosys said The filing does not specify which categories of Infosys employees were affected by the findings. Infosys said that it is reviewing the communication and that the fine would not impact its financials, operations or other business activities. Netizens react to Infosys being fined in France Meanwhile, Indians are talking about it on social media, especially since Narayana Murthy, Infosys founder, had called for a 70-hour work week in the country. One wrote, "Narayan Murthy crying somewhere in streets of India. This slavery mindset can only be applied to third world country like ours, but in Europe??" Another stated, "France's move is absolutely right. forcing employees to work excessive hours at the expense of their mental health and family life is completely unacceptable…"

Infosys has been fined nearly Rs 2 crore because its system for tracking employee working hours was found non-compliant with labour regulations. The country requires all companies to track the hours so that employees are not overworked without adequate overtime compensation.&nbsp;

France fines Infosys Rs 1.9 crore because of how it tracked employee hours

This World Nature Conservation Day, Zee Media launches its "My Earth, My Duty" campaign with the journey of Satyam Dixit, a young environmental changemaker who shaped his personal struggles into a mission for the environment. Satyam, as the son of a pedal rickshaw puller, grew up in modest circumstances and later worked as a watchman. Living in a rented home, he began earning while still in school by selling momos and continued supporting his family through college by working as a delivery executive. These formative experiences, marked by hardship and hustle, shaped in him a deep sense of responsibility and a spirit of service toward others.<h2>Journey since the COVID-19 pandemic</h2>The turning point in his career came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Satyam had originally intended to prepare for the UPSC examination; however, he devoted his energy toward helping communities navigate the crisis. That period of service eventually evolved into a citizen-led environmental initiative centred on cleanliness, waste management, and public awareness.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-aims-for-200-ship-navy-by-2035-to-counter-china-and-pakistan-gravitas-1785172061511">India aims for 200-ship Navy by 2035 to counter China and Pakistan | Gravitas</a> What began as a small effort with a handful of volunteers has since grown into a full-fledged movement active in more than 200 cities across India. The initiative regularly conducts cleanup drives at public spaces and riverbanks, having removed large volumes of waste from these areas. It also champions sustainable practices, promoting recycling and the responsible disposal of plastic and religious waste. Beyond cleanup drives, the initiative focuses on changing public behaviour by encouraging citizens to take genuine ownership of their surroundings through sustained awareness campaigns and active community participation. Satyam Dixit's story stands as a testament to how individual determination can spark collective action, embodying the core message of Zee Media's "My Earth, My Duty" campaign: real, lasting change begins when ordinary people step up and take responsibility for the world around them.

Beyond cleanup drives, the initiative focuses on changing public behaviour by encouraging citizens to take genuine ownership of their surroundings through sustained awareness campaigns and active community participation.

This World Nature Conservation Day, Zee Media launches its "My Earth, My Duty" campaign with the journey of Satyam Dixit, a young environmental changemaker who shaped his personal struggles into a mission for the environment. Satyam, as the son of a pedal rickshaw puller, grew up in modest circumstances and later worked as a watchman. Living in a rented home, he began earning while still in school by selling momos and continued supporting his family through college by working as a delivery executive. These formative experiences, marked by hardship and hustle, shaped in him a deep sense of responsibility and a spirit of service toward others. Journey since the COVID-19 pandemic The turning point in his career came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Satyam had originally intended to prepare for the UPSC examination; however, he devoted his energy toward helping communities navigate the crisis. That period of service eventually evolved into a citizen-led environmental initiative centred on cleanliness, waste management, and public awareness. Also read: India aims for 200-ship Navy by 2035 to counter China and Pakistan | Gravitas What began as a small effort with a handful of volunteers has since grown into a full-fledged movement active in more than 200 cities across India. The initiative regularly conducts cleanup drives at public spaces and riverbanks, having removed large volumes of waste from these areas. It also champions sustainable practices, promoting recycling and the responsible disposal of plastic and religious waste. Beyond cleanup drives, the initiative focuses on changing public behaviour by encouraging citizens to take genuine ownership of their surroundings through sustained awareness campaigns and active community participation. Satyam Dixit's story stands as a testament to how individual determination can spark collective action, embodying the core message of Zee Media's "My Earth, My Duty" campaign: real, lasting change begins when ordinary people step up and take responsibility for the world around them.

Beyond cleanup drives, the initiative focuses on changing public behaviour by encouraging citizens to take genuine ownership of their surroundings through sustained awareness campaigns and active community participation.

Zee Media launched 'My Earth, My Duty' campaign on World Nature Conservation Day

Nearly 2,500 years ago, two prophets had visions of the Dead Sea coming to life as waters flowed east from Jerusalem. The deadly waters were healed, fruit trees bloomed, and fish thrived. Believers think that this is linked to a prophecy about catastrophic wars and the end of humanity. But this exact scenario is unfolding next to the barren body of water. Freshwater pools filled with plants and aquatic life have emerged beside it about 20 kilometres east of Jerusalem.&nbsp;The Dead Sea has an extremely high salt concentration that does not allow for any fish, seaweeds or aquatic plants to survive. The salinity level is around 34 per cent, nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. This environment would kill any kind of life almost immediately. So the discovery of this pool of water supporting life has come as a surprise, with some people seeing it as a precursor to the prophecy about catastrophe and doom.<h2>Prophets had visions of waters flowing to the Dead Sea</h2>Ezekiel 47 describes water flowing east from under the threshold of a temple in Jerusalem before entering the sea. "When these waters enter the sea, the waters will be healed, and everything that enters this river will live," the passage says. Later, Zechariah also described a similar vision, and said that "living waters" would flow out of Jerusalem. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/charming-antichrist-will-deceive-the-world-priest-warns-biblical-prophecy-could-come-true-1773303931153">'Charming' Antichrist will deceive the world: Priest warns Biblical prophecy could soon come true</a>&nbsp;Scientists don't see it as a supernatural event and have a reasonable explanation for what is happening in the Dead Sea. They attribute the pools of fresh water to sinkholes around sections of the shoreline.&nbsp;The Dead Sea contains a mix of magnesium chloride, potassium and calcium. The dense waters allow people to float on water. Today, fresh water is travelling through porous limestone from higher ground around Jerusalem, with gravity carrying it east. The Dead Sea is located about 1,400 feet below sea level, and hence is the lowest exposed point on Earth. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/move-over-rapture-another-prophecy-claims-comet-will-end-the-world-in-2026-1758790270916">Rapture did not happen, but another world-ending event has been prophesied for 2026</a>&nbsp;It is also receding, which led to underground freshwater springs being exposed. Clear pools have appeared at the bottom of sinkholes, with reeds, algae, insects, birds and small aquatic organisms forming small ecosystems in a region that has only been seen as dead all these years. In 2016, a fish was photographed in the pool of fresh water.<h2>People link revelation to a prophecy about Israel</h2>But some people have connected it to a biblical passage about Israel, whose restoration is followed by a group of nations invading the country during the "last days." It kick-starts a period of tribulations, with Zechariah saying the Mount of Olives will split from east to west when the Lord returns. This is when the living waters will flow towards Jerusalem. However, none of these things has happened.&nbsp;But scientists have documented more than 9,000 sinkholes on the Israeli side and call the pools of water an environmental crisis. So it is neither the end of times, nor is it a sign of Jesus descending on Earth.

Dead Sea has such a high salt concentration that no life can survive here. However, fresh pools of water around it have triggered rumours of visions that two prophets had 2.500 years ago. It is seen as the start of a prophecy about catastrophic wars and the end of humanity.

Nearly 2,500 years ago, two prophets had visions of the Dead Sea coming to life as waters flowed east from Jerusalem. The deadly waters were healed, fruit trees bloomed, and fish thrived. Believers think that this is linked to a prophecy about catastrophic wars and the end of humanity. But this exact scenario is unfolding next to the barren body of water. Freshwater pools filled with plants and aquatic life have emerged beside it about 20 kilometres east of Jerusalem. The Dead Sea has an extremely high salt concentration that does not allow for any fish, seaweeds or aquatic plants to survive. The salinity level is around 34 per cent, nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. This environment would kill any kind of life almost immediately. So the discovery of this pool of water supporting life has come as a surprise, with some people seeing it as a precursor to the prophecy about catastrophe and doom. Prophets had visions of waters flowing to the Dead Sea Ezekiel 47 describes water flowing east from under the threshold of a temple in Jerusalem before entering the sea. "When these waters enter the sea, the waters will be healed, and everything that enters this river will live," the passage says. Later, Zechariah also described a similar vision, and said that "living waters" would flow out of Jerusalem. Also Read: 'Charming' Antichrist will deceive the world: Priest warns Biblical prophecy could soon come true Scientists don't see it as a supernatural event and have a reasonable explanation for what is happening in the Dead Sea. They attribute the pools of fresh water to sinkholes around sections of the shoreline. The Dead Sea contains a mix of magnesium chloride, potassium and calcium. The dense waters allow people to float on water. Today, fresh water is travelling through porous limestone from higher ground around Jerusalem, with gravity carrying it east. The Dead Sea is located about 1,400 feet below sea level, and hence is the lowest exposed point on Earth. Also Read: Rapture did not happen, but another world-ending event has been prophesied for 2026 It is also receding, which led to underground freshwater springs being exposed. Clear pools have appeared at the bottom of sinkholes, with reeds, algae, insects, birds and small aquatic organisms forming small ecosystems in a region that has only been seen as dead all these years. In 2016, a fish was photographed in the pool of fresh water. People link revelation to a prophecy about Israel But some people have connected it to a biblical passage about Israel, whose restoration is followed by a group of nations invading the country during the "last days." It kick-starts a period of tribulations, with Zechariah saying the Mount of Olives will split from east to west when the Lord returns. This is when the living waters will flow towards Jerusalem. However, none of these things has happened. But scientists have documented more than 9,000 sinkholes on the Israeli side and call the pools of water an environmental crisis. So it is neither the end of times, nor is it a sign of Jesus descending on Earth.

Dead Sea has such a high salt concentration that no life can survive here. However, fresh pools of water around it have triggered rumours of visions that two prophets had 2.500 years ago. It is seen as the start of a prophecy about catastrophic wars and the end of humanity.

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