Times of India

India has secured its first medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 before the opening ceremony, with Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain assured of at least bronze after receiving a semifinal bye. She faces T.K.B.P. Taafaki on July 31 for a place in the final. India begins its Glasgow campaign with a 124-member contingent targeting success across multiple sports.

Shashi Tharoor used a poetic couplet to criticize the government's paper leak response. Prime Minister Modi announced fast-track courts for swift punishment for offenders. This action plan aims to safeguard the future and welfare of the nation's youth. The Congress party has described the Centre's response as significantly delayed. Protests continue at Jantar Mantar and a hunger strike enters its twenty-sixth day.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai defended the company's AI strategy on Wednesday. He addressed investor concerns about rivals launching new models rapidly. Pichai highlighted Gemini Flash models and teased the upcoming Gemini 4 release. Google's capital expenditures increased significantly, raising investor scrutiny. The company remains committed to maintaining its competitive edge in AI.

The Delhi High Court has started a suo motu public interest litigation to monitor stray dog management. Notices were issued to the Delhi government and Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Authorities must submit a status report detailing steps taken by July thirty-first. The court expressed concern over the increasing stray dog population in the city. This action follows Supreme Court directions for all High Courts to oversee compliance.

A new study has traced the northward expansion of North American beavers into Canada's Arctic by analysing shrub growth scars and satellite images. Researchers found evidence of colonisation beginning in 2008 and say the method can help track wildlife spread, landscape changes and the effects of climate change in remote Arctic regions.

Competitive Exam explainers | Agriculture

Nvidia has gifted a DGX GB300 supercomputer to the Naval Postgraduate School. This donation provides advanced AI computing access for students and faculty. The system will support research in areas like weather prediction and cybersecurity. Admiral Samuel Paparo highlighted the importance of modernizing technological education. Nvidia partnered with DDN, VAST, and Vertiv for system integration.

While volunteering for a substantial beagle rescue, Stephanie Stern encountered Marshmallow, a sweet older beagle undergoing medical evaluations. After her work was done, Stern felt compelled to track down Marshmallow, who deserved a second chance. A rescue organization helped confirm the connection, ultimately leading Stern to adopt Marshmallow, ensuring she spent her golden years in a nurturing environment.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke announced his temporary absence from the Jantar Mantar protest site. He has been suffering from fever and severe body pain for several days. Dipke plans to rest for a few hours and will return to the protest later. The ongoing agitation demands the education minister's resignation over the NEET paper leak. Protesters continue their demonstration despite heightened security and police actions.

Once enjoyed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, bridge has faded from India's sporting landscape. Seventeen-year-old prodigy Anshul Bhatt hopes to change that. Inspired by Viswanathan Anand's belief that bridge is where chess was two decades ago, Anshul is winning world titles, mentoring young players, conducting research, and building a movement to give the mind sport its long-awaited breakthrough in India.

R Madhavan faced backlash for staying silent on the CJP-led protest demanding education minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET paper leak. He finally shared a note supporting reforms and urging strict action, but netizens slammed it as a "safe play." The protest, ongoing since June 6, saw Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and a Chalo Sansad march.

Former opener Abhinav Mukund has revealed his 2027 ODI World Cup squad. He included veteran Rohit Sharma and excluded Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill is now close to the top ODI batting ranking. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma also feature in the top five batters. Kuldeep Yadav slipped in the bowler rankings after the recent series.

Indian students protest after Portage College's business management diploma graduates faced work visa rejections. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada stated their programs were not eligible for permits. Portage College encourages affected students to retain important documents and seek legal advice. The college cannot overturn decisions made by the immigration authority. Affected students should consult official government materials and obtain independent advice.

Prime Minister Modi announced fast-track courts for NEET paper leak cases. Abhijeet Dipke of Cockroach Janta Party criticized the government's approach. He satirically highlighted the demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Protesters continue demonstrations seeking Pradhan's removal and compensation for affected students. The group insists the minister's resignation remains a non-negotiable demand.

Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna sustained a left knee injury while filming.He was initially treated locally before being airlifted for specialized evaluation.Doctors confirmed a localized collection of blood and inflammation around his knee.Production house reassured fans that the injury is minor and recovery is expected.Industry colleagues have sent wishes for his swift and complete recovery.

The US government plans to fund individual scientists directly, moving away from large institutions. This strategic shift aims to accelerate technological discovery and maintain American leadership in science. Federal agencies are tasked with submitting action plans within ninety days for implementation. The report emphasizes revitalizing science and technology through AI and new research organizations. This initiative seeks to ensure scientific advancements benefit all Americans across the nation.

A contingent of 125 Indian athletes will compete in Glasgow for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. India will participate across thirteen sports disciplines, including several para-sports events. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu are expected to lead the medal charge for India. The schedule details daily events for Indian athletes from July 24 to August 2. Indian athletes aim to add to the nation's impressive Commonwealth Games medal history.