National News

In a recent debate, claims made by Governor Walz and Senator Vance were fact-checked, revealing mixed levels of accuracy. Walz's assertion that the U.S. is producing record amounts of oil and natural gas holds true, although natural gas output is forecasted to decline in 2024. His statement about Donald Trump not paying federal taxes for 10 of the last 15 years is also mostly accurate. However, claims about Minnesota’s child tax credit reducing poverty by a third lack verified data. Vance’s claims, including those about Iran’s assets and U.S. gun violence, presented more nuanced and sometimes misleading realities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote an emotional letter to Saroj Devi, mother of Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra, expressing gratitude for her churma. Modi noted its significance during Navratri and how it reminded him of his mother. Neeraj recently won second place in the Diamond League Final with a throw of 87.86 meters.

Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist and education reformer, was released after being detained by Delhi Police for nearly 48 hours. He and 173 others were on a peaceful march to Delhi advocating for Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. They began an indefinite hunger strike in protest against their detention.

The Great Khali, standing at 7 feet 1 inch, had a notable WWE career after joining in 2006. Known for his powerful presence and memorable matches, he became India's first WWE wrestler and later inspired future wrestlers through training. Post-WWE, he found success in Bollywood and Hollywood.

In a remarkable display of bravery, a woman from Amritsar single-handedly thwarted an attempted robbery by three thieves in broad daylight, as shown in viral CCTV footage. She secured her home and protected her young daughter by cleverly blocking the entry door and calling for help.

Hathras police have filed a comprehensive 3,200-page charge sheet concerning the July 2 stampede during the "Bhole Baba" gathering in Fulrai village, which led to 121 deaths. Eleven individuals, including event organizers, are charged, but Surajpal Singh, the event's spiritual leader, is not accused. A judicial inquiry continues alongside the police investigation.

Iran's missile attack on Israel targeted key airbases, escalating regional tensions. Israel vows severe retaliation, while the US urges restraint to avoid a broader conflict. This significant escalation, in response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, threatens to draw regional powers into a larger war, testing US influence in shaping outcomes.

Japan's new foreign minister, Takeshi Iwaya, stresses the need for a constructive and stable relationship with China while safeguarding Japan's national interests. He emphasizes dialogue with China, regional peace, and condemns escalating Middle East violence, urging responsible actions from all involved.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan on Wednesday ignited a cricketing debate by claiming India under Rohit Sharma is mirroring England's aggressive 'Bazball' approach, branded 'Gamball' linked to Gautam Gambhir. Vaughan also noted India's rapid scoring and attacking play, drawing similarities to England's attacking style under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes.

Prashant Kishor on Wednesday officially launched the Jan Suraaj Party in Bihar's Patna, emphasising the need for a robust education system funded by the removal of the state's liquor ban. The launch followed a 3,000-km 'padayatra' aimed at addressing Bihar's backwardness and mobilising people for a new political alternative.

Israel has declared UN secretary-seneral Antonio Guterres "persona non grata" for not condemning Iran's missile attack on Israel. Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Guterres for not denouncing Hamas's atrocities and accused him of supporting terrorists. Guterres had called for a ceasefire amid escalating violence, urging an end to the conflict.

In a crucial debate, US Senator JD Vance and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz discussed key issues, focusing on the Middle East, climate change, and immigration. Both candidates hesitated to directly support a preemptive Israeli strike on Iran. Walz criticised Trump’s leadership, while Vance defended Trump’s foreign policy record. They addressed past misstatements and directed criticisms at their running mates, with Walz targeting Trump’s border wall failure and Vance criticising Harris’s handling of immigration.

Rising star Sarfaraz Khan slammed a double century for Mumbai in the Irani Cup against Rest of India, becoming the first Mumbai batter to achieve the milestone. Despite being dropped earlier, Sarfaraz's sensational 200 propelled him to the second-highest batting average in first-class cricket, behind Vijay Merchant.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali praises Babar Azam's decision to step down as captain of the white-ball team, calling it a 'sensible decision.' Azam resigned following disappointing performances in major tournaments, aiming to focus on his individual game and personal life. Pakistan cricket is now in search of a new white-ball skipper.