Times of India

The government is against extending the creamy layer to SC and ST reservation benefits, emphasizing that the challenges these communities face are rooted in more than economic issues. Reservation serves to right historical wrongs and ensure equitable access. The Supreme Court has permitted states to categorize castes within SC groups, but only Parliament holds the power to amend the lists of SC and ST populations eligible for these allocations.

In a significant phone discussion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu evaluated the progress made in their strategic partnership and bilateral engagements. They also addressed current developments in West Asia, amidst Israel's increasing international scrutiny due to its military actions. This exchange highlights their continued efforts to bolster cooperation and deepen ties between India and Israel.

Despite the tightening of regulations, foreign contributions to NGOs have surged. Recently, however, there has been a notable decline in the number of registered NGOs, now totaling merely 14,500 compared to several lakh in the past. The government emphasizes that the amendments focus on specific foreign-funded channels, aiming to enhance oversight without hindering the broader civil society framework.

Rahul Gandhi briefed opposition parties on discussions regarding the delimitation bill. The opposition maintains its stand on women's reservation within the current Lok Sabha strength. Discussions also covered the FCRA bill, with concerns raised about its impact on minorities. Some members noted potential government removal of retrospective effect clauses. Parliamentary functioning remains contingent on government statements regarding protests and donations.

Chief minister Lalduhoma from Mizoram held a pivotal meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday, where Shah confirmed that amendments to the FCRA will not have a retroactive effect. Church representatives were also part of the discussion, emphasizing the need for suggestions to safeguard the FCRA. A vital debate on the proposed bill is set for August 12, promising to clarify future legislative actions.

The Supreme Court has officially closed the chapter on the Bofors payoff case by dismissing an appeal that challenged the Delhi High Court's 2005 ruling, which had previously annulled criminal proceedings against the Hinduja brothers. Advocate Ajay K Agrawal filed the appeal, but the court decided against allowing more time for arguments, finalizing the legal dispute once and for all.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Territorial Army's significant contributions to Viksit Bharat. The force embodies the citizen-soldier concept, safeguarding borders and maintaining internal security. Territorial Army personnel provide surge capacity and act as a bridge to society. They are also first responders during natural calamities and aid environmental conservation efforts. Ecological task forces have planted ten crore saplings, supporting national climate goals.

India's Gaganyaan mission has achieved significant milestones in developing critical human-rating systems. Propulsion stages and structures for the launch vehicle have been fully developed and tested. Crew safety systems, including the escape system, have also been successfully developed and qualified. The first uncrewed experimental mission is targeted for late 2026. This will be followed by two more uncrewed flights before the maiden human orbital mission.

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth became the first Indian woman to complete the elite Fighter Combat Leader course. Captain Shivani Sehrawat is now the first woman officer appointed Aide-de-Camp to the Army chief. Kanth previously qualified for daytime combat missions on a MiG-21 Bison aircraft. She later transitioned to piloting the advanced Sukhoi Su-30 MKI frontline fighter jet. These achievements highlight growing gender inclusion within India's defense forces.

France has made a formal proposal for supplying 114 Rafale fighter jets to India, estimating the deal at approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore. This strategic partnership will see 94 jets produced locally under the Make-in-India initiative. The Indian government is now reviewing the proposal to ensure it aligns with the integration of indigenous missile systems, with hopes to finalize the agreement by the end of this year.

A Bengaluru-based startup is revolutionising space operations with its jetpack satellites designed to dock with aging spacecraft, effectively taking over propulsion responsibilities. Aule Space has successfully validated its crucial technology at an ISRO facility, setting the stage for future demonstrations. With plans for a groundbreaking private satellite docking trial next year, this innovation could save billions by prolonging the functionality of essential assets in orbit.

UK health authorities have recorded almost 200 fatalities linked to the anti-obesity medications Mounjaro and Wegovy. These drugs have been associated with more than 150,000 adverse effects. Notably, semaglutide, which is marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy, accounts for 59 deaths, while tirzepatide, known as Mounjaro, has resulted in 120 deaths and over 106,000 adverse reactions, and liraglutide, or Saxenda, has 37 deaths with 4,528 adverse effects recorded.

At 97, Betty Bromage has broken her own Guinness World Record as the oldest female wing walker. The Cheltenham resident completed the daring challenge to raise funds for the stroke unit at Cheltenham General Hospital, where she was treated after suffering a stroke in 2025, proving resilience knows no age.

A former PoK minister faces child sex offense allegations from the 1990s. He was arrested in the UK and is currently out on police bail. Ahmed allegedly failed to attend a court date, campaigning instead in Mirpur. A UK judge allowed him to travel to Pakistan despite his bail status. Greater Manchester police may seek his extradition if he fails to appear.

An FIR has been filed by J&K Police against Iltija Mufti, accusing her of assaulting an officer amid protests. Charges against her involve public servant assault and rioting, while her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, is also named for failing to adhere to protest regulations. The PDP refutes these claims, asserting police brutality led to Iltija's injuries and criticizing the questioning of an individual in medical care.

In the Mendhar sector, two personnel from the Army Bomb Disposal Squad sustained injuries while trying to defuse a dangerous landmine. A nearby team later located and safely destroyed rusty mortar shells in the Mankote sector. The initial discovery of the landmine was made by an Army patrol, which promptly notified the bomb disposal unit.

Ladakh administration approved India's first high-altitude wildlife safari to prevent illegal off-roading. This initiative aims to protect snow leopards and bird-watching trails in the region. Guided jeep safaris will be introduced on popular tourist routes across the Union Territory. Local youths will be trained as guides for spotting wildlife and birds. The program promotes community-led conservation and responsible eco-tourism.

In a bold move, the Leh Apex Body has presented the Union government with a one-month ultimatum, calling for the withdrawal of allegations against protesters and support for the families affected by last year’s tragedies. The relatives of four deceased demonstrators are adamant about receiving justice and compensation. They have signaled potential protests if their requests are ignored, underscoring the urgent need for the Centre's attention to Ladakh's pressing concerns.

In a tragic incident, two intoxicated young men crashed their vehicle into a scooty carrying medical students, resulting in one student being declared brain dead. The police have taken swift action, arresting Suravarapu Daswanth and Andrew Joseph Edwards. Prior to the crash, the pair had been refused entry to a mall due to their drunken state. Legal proceedings are now underway against the individuals for their reckless actions.