Times of India

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the final World Cup of his legendary career, saying he will retire from football’s biggest stage “with a clear conscience” after giving everything for Portugal. The 41-year-old made the announcement ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash with Spain, insisting his focus remains on extending his farewell by reaching the quarter-finals.

OPEC+ has approved an additional 188,000 barrels per day production increase for August, aiming to boost global crude availability and ease price pressures, particularly for importing nations like India. This move, part of a broader unwinding of production cuts, comes as global benchmark Brent crude nears pre-conflict levels. While oil firms anticipate breaking even on petrol and diesel soon, cooking gas sales continue to incur losses.

Government has issued a stern directive to Meta, demanding the immediate removal of all paid advertisements and content on Instagram promoting child sexual abuse material. Authorities are demanding a detailed explanation within seven days regarding how such ads were permitted and what safeguards are being implemented to prevent future occurrences. This action follows reports of Instagram ads being used to direct users to illegal content.

A significant majority of NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, are no longer active, with over 72% having their licenses cancelled or expired. Since 2012, out of 52,159 granted licenses, only 14,455 currently hold active status, enabling them to receive foreign funding. This tightening of regulations aims to enhance accountability and transparency among these organizations.

Motorists with traffic violations will soon face mandatory driving tests for license renewal. The government also plans to empower tribunals to grant interim compensation to accident victims, speeding up relief. These proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act, approved by a Group of Ministers, aim to curb errant drivers and enhance road safety. The bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament soon.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce just had the wedding of the year as billions across the world cheered them on throughout the world across countries. While the wedding pictures have been kept strictly private, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds remained missing from the party. At a time when Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce publicly distanced themselves from the Hollywood power couple, it seems both Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are furious at this.

Egypt has unveiled its colossal new State Strategic Command headquarters, dubbed "Octagon," dwarfing the US Pentagon in size. This sprawling complex, covering approximately 22,000 acres, will centralize Egypt's military leadership, operations, and intelligence. President El Sisi inaugurated the "towering national edifice," highlighting its advanced technological infrastructure designed to manage military situations and confront national challenges. The Octagon represents a significant advancement in Egypt's command and control capabilities.

Indian Army conducted a large-scale mock drill in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, simulating a terrorist attack to bolster operational readiness. The exercise, involving Rashtriya Rifles and other units along the LoC and hinterland, tested evacuation, safety protocols, and inter-agency coordination. This comes as heightened security measures are in place in Surankote and Mendhar following intelligence of potential infiltration and terror activities.

Home Minister Amit Shah has ordered the CISF and coal ministry to establish rapid response teams and implement a "zero coal leakage plan" to combat rising illegal mining and coal theft in Jharkhand. Multi-layered security will be deployed in vulnerable zones, with agencies now empowered to file cases, conduct searches, and seize illegally mined coal and equipment. Shah stressed rigorous, coordinated action and regular reviews.

India is significantly boosting LPG imports from the US, aiming to double current purchases and reduce reliance on Gulf nations. This strategic shift, spurred by recent West Asian conflicts, ensures a diversified supply chain and aids in building a crucial 30-day strategic reserve. The move also strengthens energy ties with the US, helping to balance trade.

Remembering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, this tribute highlights his unwavering commitment to India's unity and selfless service. From his early life of privilege to his impactful roles as an educationist, minister, and founder of the Jana Sangh, Mookerjee championed national integrity and democratic values. His sacrifice for Jammu & Kashmir's integration remains a pivotal moment in India's history.

Fresh financial leads have emerged in the Ram Temple donation embezzlement case. Accused Avinash Shukla, during interrogation, reportedly detailed spending of Rs 19 lakh on family and friends, including wedding expenses for brothers and personal purchases like a car. Investigators are examining land deals and bank accounts, with legal action underway to recover funds. Valuables worth lakhs were previously recovered.

In a dazzling display of love, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce exchanged vows at Madison Square Garden, an event veiled in secrecy, complete with NDAs and a ban on phones. Officiated by Adam Sandler, the ceremony featured live performances by legends Paul McCartney and Stevie Nicks. Guests reveled in a whimsical 'Secret Garden' reception adorned with childhood mementos and bespoke gifts.

Kolkata's government buses are undergoing a significant colour change, shifting from blue-and-white to saffron, a move the transport minister attributes to modernization and a "dynamic double-engine regime." This rebranding extends to e-tickets, with officials maintaining it's not a formal policy shift. However, critics argue cosmetic changes distract from critical issues like driver shortages and declining fleet strength, with commuters prioritizing reliability over political symbolism.

A seaplane carrying eight people crashed into New York City's East River on Sunday, prompting a swift emergency response. All passengers were rescued by the FDNY, with two sustaining minor injuries. The aircraft, which partially capsized after a hard landing, was later righted and towed. Authorities are investigating the incident, which follows a similar seaplane rescue last month.

A resident of Hyderabad has swapped his corporate role at Amazon for the freedom of full-time Uber driving, discovering true joy in engaging with diverse passengers and discovering his city. With over 23,600 rides under his belt since 2014, he emphasizes finding daily happiness rather than sticking to a conventional office job.

Security forces surrounded Mamata Banerjee's residence as she prepared to visit Baruipur following a horrific crime. The TMC condemned the deployment, calling it a "super emergency" and questioning if their leader was being placed under house arrest. The party also criticized the BJP, alleging their promises of women's safety have proven hollow amidst the ongoing tragedy.

Chasing 151, the highest target ever set in a Women's T20 World Cup final, Australia reached 153/3 in 17.1 overs, finishing the job with 17 balls to spare.

Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', previously facing CBFC issues, was removed from Zee5 in India just two days after its digital release. The actor reacted strongly, posting '#ichallengethedarkness' and stating the film's unavailability is a setback. The streaming platform expressed commitment to bringing the film back, emphasizing its authentic narrative, while acknowledging the pause in its availability.