National News

In a troubling turn of events, Paris finds itself at the center of a child abuse controversy, with reports surpassing 100 allegations of mistreatment and sexual assault within schools. Fueled by the Gisèle Pelicot case, concerned parents are pushing for thorough investigations and accountability from authorities.

Indian Air Force helicopters are battling a major forest fire in Himachal Pradesh's Kasauli. Mi-17 and Chinook choppers are dousing flames in inaccessible areas, even ferrying water from Sukhna Lake. Thick smoke billowed from the scenic town's forests, including orchards and oak trees, as authorities continue efforts to control the blaze.

Pooja Tomar stands at a career crossroads as she prepares to face China’s Shi Ming in her third UFC bout in Macau. At 32, victory is pivotal for India’s first female UFC fighter to keep her momentum and future options alive. Yet, beyond results, Tomar’s impact on Indian MMA has already been significant, with the Budhana-born fighter helping bring unprecedented visibility to the sport while continuing to dream of an eventual IPL-like moment for MMA in India.

Delhi authorities have deployed rapid response teams across all districts to prevent illegal animal sacrifice and cruelty ahead of Bakrid. Strict guidelines prohibit public slaughter, sale of animals in unauthorized spots, and the sacrifice of specific animals. Criminal cases will be filed for violations, with awareness campaigns also planned.

Republican politicians face a stark choice: unwavering loyalty to Donald Trump or political oblivion. Recent primary defeats, like Senator John Cornyn's, underscore Trump's absolute control. Conservatism alone is insufficient; submission to Trump is paramount. This dynamic forces GOP figures to prioritize his approval, even as national polls show unease, highlighting a deep ideological divide within the party.

Sourav Ganguly believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is India's future but not yet ready for Test cricket, advocating for his inclusion in T20s. He also feels Auqib Nabi deserved a spot in the India squad alongside Prince Yadav. Ganguly acknowledges Rishabh Pant's Test prowess while noting his T20 struggles and the challenges of captaincy.

Girish Sharma's journey from Zomato delivery rider to Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi, highlights relentless perseverance. Facing multiple rejections and waitlists after two failed CAT attempts, Sharma refused to settle for less. His story emphasises unwavering determination and the refusal to accept limitations, proving that sustained effort, not just inspiration, drives success.

A traveler returning from Uganda has been isolated in Bengaluru with mild body ache, prompting heightened surveillance by Indian authorities. While no confirmed Ebola case has been detected in India, the individual is undergoing testing as a precautionary measure amid ongoing outbreaks in Africa.

INS Kolkata thwarted a potential pirate attack on merchant vessel MV Mashallah 1 in the Western Indian Ocean. The Indian Navy warship, on anti-piracy patrol, swiftly deployed its helicopter for surveillance and conducted boarding operations, ensuring the safety of the ship and its crew. This intervention highlights the Navy's commitment to protecting vital shipping lanes.

Banks across numerous Indian states are closed today for Eid-ul-Adha, impacting branch services like cheque clearance and cash deposits. Customers are urged to verify local holiday schedules. While physical banking is halted, digital services including internet banking, mobile apps, and ATMs remain fully operational. Plan ahead for essential branch tasks and utilize online channels to avoid disruption.

The ruling marks another setback for the entrepreneur, who is already facing legal challenges from overseas investors across multiple jurisdictions. In the United States, lenders are attempting to recover losses tied to a soured $1.2 billion loan.

India strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN Security Council, accusing it of sponsoring cross-border terrorism and violating sovereignty through decades of aggression. India's envoy stated Pakistan's actions, including its "doctrine of bleeding India by a thousand cuts," expose its hollow rhetoric on the UN Charter.

In an IPL season bereft of the talent and regular presence of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has seemingly taken over the mantle. As the teenager dazzles with explosive batting, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal says the BCCI and Rajasthan Royals must help nurture his rise and prepare him for the challenges ahead.

Authorities in Delhi have busted an illegal spice manufacturing unit in Khari Baoli, seizing over 800 kg of counterfeit spices. The operation uncovered grinding machinery and a large quantity of non-edible adulterants, including industrial dyes, mixed with common spices like red chilli and turmeric.

Rajat Patidar backed his pre-match claim of preferring pace over spin with a breathtaking 93 off 33 balls against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026 Qualifier 1. The RCB skipper smashed nine sixes -- seven against pacers -- and now has 41 sixes this IPL season, with 27 coming against fast bowlers. Batting at No. 4, Patidar has scored 486 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 196.76, underlining his impact as one of RCB's most destructive middle-order batters.

Glenn Phillips reacted angrily after Gujarat Titans’ 92-run loss to RCB in IPL 2026 Qualifier 1. When a reporter asked if GT had mentally given up while chasing 255, Phillips called it a “silly” and “terrible” question, insisting professional cricketers never quit. He admitted scoreboard pressure hurt GT after early wickets, but said the team must now stay calm and prepare for the Eliminator.

Cloudflare is laying off over 1,100 employees, about 20% of its workforce, to restructure around AI adoption. CEO Matthew Prince explained the cuts target 'measurers' – roles like middle management and operations – as AI enhances efficiency. He believes AI will boost productivity for 'builders' and 'sellers', allowing greater investment in growth areas.

Youngster Divya Deshmukh continued her fine start at Norway Chess by defeating country No. 1 Koneru Humpy in an Armageddon tiebreak after a tactical classical draw. It was a bleak day for India in the open section, however, as R Praggnanandhaa lost in classical to Alireza Firouzja, while D Gukesh fell to Wesley So in Armageddon.

Anushka Sharma passionately cheered for husband Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru during their IPL match. Captured praying and chanting, her devotion resonated with fans. A heartwarming moment also saw her respond with a smile and wave to a fan's greeting, showcasing her engaging personality amidst the high-stakes game.