Times of India

India's Navy is significantly boosting its maritime security with new drone technology. Requests for tactical multi-copter surveillance drones and approval for shipborne unmanned aerial systems are underway. These advancements, alongside indigenous development of underwater vehicles, mirror global trends. Nations like the US and UK are also integrating unmanned systems, signaling a future where drones are central to naval combat, reducing risks and enhancing capabilities.

Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from all Trinamool Congress posts, citing a loss of confidence from party chief Mamata Banerjee. Bhattacharya rejected claims of disloyalty, stating her decision stemmed from a phone call where Banerjee blamed her for the rebel faction's takeover of the party office. This move follows the TMC's internal crisis and a significant electoral defeat.

Texas beaches have been inundated with nearly 60 colourful plastic piggy banks, baffling locals and experts. These buoyant containers, originating from countries like the Dominican Republic and Guatemala, have washed ashore over the past year. While many speculate about cargo spills, experts suggest they likely entered waterways after being discarded, eventually drifting to the Texas coast. Despite public curiosity, the piggy banks have only contained sand dollars.

Argentina sealed their place in the last 16 for the sixth straight World Cup after defeating Cape Verde in a tense round-of-32 match at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday (IST).

The second quarter of 2026 showcased explosive growth in Indian real estate, attracting a staggering $2.9 billion in institutional investments—marking a remarkable 70% increase from the previous year. With a six-year peak now reached, both domestic and international investors exhibited robust confidence, particularly in office and mixed-use properties. Notably, ADIA’s substantial $675 million investment underscored the sector's resilience amid global challenges.

A cryptocurrency dispute is now central to the investigation of an alleged kidnapping and gang rape of two foreign women in Pakistan. One victim claims Raza Dar, a relative of the deputy prime minister, demanded $100,000 for their release after they were held captive and sexually assaulted. Investigators are exploring if Dar lured the women to Pakistan for a $1.5 million crypto deal, staging the abduction to appear genuine.

In India, engineering and medicine have long been the cornerstones of middle-class aspirations, symbolizing security and respect. Yet, the landscape is transforming. With the rise of AI and digital sectors, the job market now prizes flexibility and contemporary skills over old-fashioned degrees. Professions in AI, cybersecurity, and digital marketing are emerging as attractive, rewarding alternatives to traditional paths, proving that the definition of success has evolved.

India is bolstering its energy security following the Strait of Hormuz disruption. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery, a crucial step towards self-reliance for a nation heavily reliant on oil imports. This project, alongside other development initiatives, aims to strengthen manufacturing, boost exports, and enhance resilience against future supply shocks, underscoring India's commitment to national interest and citizen welfare.

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has dismissed rumours of internal party rifts, assuring that senior leaders will soon unite. He addressed speculation about replacing him with Charanjit Singh Channi, stating that Channi remains a respected leader and meetings among party members are normal. Warring emphasized that indiscipline would not be tolerated and that unity would be showcased soon for the upcoming elections.

England received a hostile welcome after arriving at their team hotel in Mexico City ahead of their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against tournament co-hosts Mexico. Hundreds of local supporters gathered outside the hotel, with many cheering for the home side while others booed as England’s team bus reached the venue.

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has lauded 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a rare T20 talent with the potential to shatter records. Karthik highlighted the youngster's fearless batting and ability to score freely. While acknowledging the immense potential, Karthik also advised Sooryavanshi to stay grounded and learn to manage off-field attention, which he believes will be his biggest challenge.

India's defence acquisitions are shifting focus from expensive big-ticket items to weapons crucial for the initial hours of conflict. Recent approvals prioritize anti-drone systems, short-range air defence, and kamikaze drones, reflecting lessons from Operation Sindoor and preparing for a two-front contingency. This move signifies a move towards network-centric warfare, emphasizing tactical edge and survivability.

The State Examination Board (SEB), Gujarat, has declared the Gujarat TAT-S Preliminary Examination Result 2026 on its official portal. Candidates can access their scorecards using their confirmation number or seat number and date of birth. The board has also issued revised final answer key updates for the Gujarati Medium Common Paper and the Science and Mathematics paper. The result follows the completion of the objection process, with qualified candidates set to appear for the TAT-S Mains Examination.

In a remarkable display of tactical prowess, Israeli commandos executed Operation Thunderbolt under the cover of night at Entebbe Airport, successfully liberating over 100 hostages from terrorists. This high-stakes rescue unfolded after failed diplomatic negotiations, leading to a fierce debate over national sovereignty. The release of previously classified documents sheds light on the contentious discussions that paved the way for this audacious military intervention.

India ended the FIH Pro League season in eighth place with 19 points from 16 matches, finishing only above Pakistan, who ended without a point.

Nvidia is ramping up its space computing ambitions with its first orbital data center, Space-1. The tech giant is actively hiring for a System Software Principal Architect to develop software for this new platform, designed to withstand harsh space conditions. This move signals Nvidia's commitment to orbital AI infrastructure, joining other tech giants like SpaceX and Google in exploring space-based connectivity and data centers.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray has strongly criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP, accusing them of arrogance and shielding colleagues who made insensitive remarks after two rain-related deaths in Mumbai. Thackeray lamented the decline of Maharashtra's political culture, urging Fadnavis to demand resignations from leaders behaving "shamelessly" to uphold the state's traditions.