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Technology can personalise and multiply messages, but participation still depends on trust, dialogue and a sense of shared ownership  Public value and financial sustainability need not be opposing goals.

When broadcasting was committed to public good

A village in Madhya Pradesh, Bandrabhan, renamed itself Kalyani Gram after achieving a malaria-free year, inspired by a health program that fostered community engagement. Kalyani transformed broadcasting into a tool for social change, expanding across 21 states and earning global recognition for empowering communities. This success underscores the importance of trust and participation in media’s evolving landscape.

The idea is to have a contract where the buyer and seller engage over a long period of time, beyond merely the initial order.

Evolved procurement key to defence drones' utility

India's drone procurement practices struggle to keep pace with rapid technological advancements and evolving warfare needs, despite a $2 billion investment to strengthen its drone fleet. Long-term vendor relationships favor established players, leaving smaller manufacturers unsure of future demand. To remain competitive, India must adopt iterative, collaborative R&D processes akin to those in the civilian sector and address transactional procurement challenges.

A bag full of books and notebooks is not evidence of an excellent school. Nor is an occupied child necessarily learning.

The unbearable weight of learning, in school bags

Despite policies to lighten students' burdens, many children still carry excessively heavy school bags daily. Court rulings and government guidelines have emphasized the need for reduced homework and bag weight, but compliance remains inadequate, often worsening socio-economic disparities. A coordinated approach involving schools, parents, and regulators is essential to ensure children's well-being and educational equity.

The senior BJP leader and former home minister Narottam Mishra was denied a ticket by the party to contest in the assembly bypoll.

Narottam Mishra skips BJP meet held to discuss Datia assembly bypoll defeat

Senior Madhya Pradesh BJP leader Narottam Mishra skipped a critical party review meeting following the Datia assembly bypoll loss, raising concerns about his influence within the party. His absence stood out, as BJP leaders sought to analyze the defeat of their candidate by over 6,000 votes. A committee was formed to investigate the loss, reflecting the party's internal strife.

SC criticised the Orissa High Court for dismissing Jani’s appeal. (File)

‘Evidence unreliable’: SC acquits man who spent 22 years in jail over murders

The Supreme Court on Tuesday acquitted Arjun Jani, who spent 22 years in prison for a triple murder due to unreliable evidence. Criticizing the Orissa High Court for dismissing his appeal over a procedural delay, the court emphasized the failure of justice for marginalized individuals. Jani had been sentenced to life imprisonment in 2006 based on inadequate evidence.

Julie Tétart is a 34-year-old French basketball player who competes for Monaco Basket Association in Ligue Féminine 2.

Who is Julie Tétart? All on French trans basketball star & potential WNBA career

Julie Tétart, a standout player in France's LF2, set a league record with 21 points and 30 rebounds in March 2026. Despite her impressive stats and winning multiple awards, including Player of the Year, she wasn't named MVP, igniting criticism over perceived bias against transgender athletes. Tétart remains open to WNBA opportunities despite her age. She is a 34-year-old transgender woman who plays for Monaco Basket.

Perez Hilton health issues: Blogger was hospitalized weeks before horrific livestream, sold Christian merch to pay bills

Perez Hilton health issues: Blogger was hospitalized before horrific livestream

Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton faced a distressing incident livestreaming self-harm on TikTok, prompting police involvement due to mental health concerns. Previously hospitalized for severe health issues, including an ulcer and blood clots, he later expressed newfound faith in God. Amid financial struggles, Hilton had recently promoted Christian merchandise to cover mounting hospital bills.

A couple was killed after the concrete roof of a room near their agricultural fields collapsed in Baraundi village under Ladwa subdivision of Kurukshetra district in the early hours of Tuesday. The deceased were identified as Karnail Singh (50) and his wife, Jaswinder Kaur (45). (HT Photo)

Roof collapse kills couple in Kurukshetra village

A couple, Karnail Singh (50) and Jaswinder Kaur (45), died when the concrete roof of their room near agricultural fields collapsed in Baraundi village, Kurukshetra district, due to heavy rain. Their son discovered the tragedy while bringing tea. A probe is underway to determine the cause, as the collapse also damaged agricultural equipment. They leave behind three children.

The data revealed that the state retained its position among the top states with maximum cases, reporting 25,359 cases involving  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>620.37 crore in FY 2024-25 and 3,482 cases involving  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>454.17 crore during FY 2025-26, for the period covered in the reply. (Representational image)

Report tabled in Lok Sabha: Haryana among top three states in financial fraud cases, says RBI data

Haryana has become a major hotspot for financial fraud, reporting 84,378 cases worth ₹1,336.40 crore over three years, ranking third nationwide after Maharashtra and Delhi. Despite a rise in reported frauds, recovery efforts have proven inadequate, with only ₹50.56 crore retrieved in FY 2025-26. Experts cite digital payment growth and strong banking networks as contributing factors.

Over the past week, several local and international civil society organisations have called on Islamabad to end the escalating restrictions, including the crackdown on press freedom and internet blackouts in PoK.

Pakistan tightens rules for foreign media as POK protests gain attention

New guidelines from Pakistan's Ministry of Information mandate that foreign journalists obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before covering news outside major cities, amidst ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Civil society groups raise alarms about restrictions on press freedom and excessive force against demonstrators. These measures reflect heightened control over media amid civil unrest in the region.

Four years after a trial court awarded death sentence to two persons for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in 2018, the Punjab and Haryana high court has remanded back the case after it found some “irregularities” in the trial. (Getty Images/iStockphoto/ Representational image)

Rape & murder of 12-year-old: 4 years after Panipat court awards death penalty, HC orders retrial

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has remanded the death sentence case of two men convicted for the 2018 rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl, citing trial irregularities. Key evidence was inadequately handled, with investigators failing to submit a crucial forensic report. The court requested expedited proceedings to rectify the trial deficiencies and ensure justice.

Dozens of power employees, under the banner of the Haryana Bijli Karamchari Evam Engineer Sanyukt Sangharsh Morcha, staged a protest at the City Office, Power Colony, Panchkula, on Tuesday against the Haryana government’s proposed power sector reforms. (Representational image)

Haryana: Employees threaten statewide strike over proposed power sector reforms

Dozens of power employees protested in Panchkula against Haryana’s proposed power sector reforms, citing “anti-worker and anti-public policies.” They oppose parallel licensing, Agri DISCOM, smart metering, and privatization, threatening a statewide strike from August 11 to 13 if demands aren't met. Union leaders warned these reforms could burden the state’s finances and harm rural consumers.

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren (in picture) underlined that every action required for their welfare would be taken

CM Soren reacts to exam irregularities stir in Ranchi: ‘Waiting for CID report’

Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured job aspirants protesting over alleged recruitment examination irregularities that the Jharkhand CID's investigation report is pending. The indefinite sit-in at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium seeks central agency probes and the cancellation of exams conducted by TDPL. Former CM Raghubar Das urged direct dialogue with students, emphasizing the need for justice amidst escalating grievances over corruption claims. The CID has made arrests and postponed the Combined Civil Services Mains Examination due to ongoing protests.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini carries the sacred kalash containing soil from the birthplace of Guru Ravidas during the Kalash Vandan Yatra, in Gurugram, on Tuesday. (PTI)

Saini hits back at Punjab assembly resolution, seeks answers on ‘paper leak’ in state

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini criticized Punjab's resolution condemning the BJP-led government's response to paper leaks, questioning AAP's silence on a recent pharmacy paper leak. He highlighted concerns over recruitment fairness in Punjab and accused Congress of vote-bank politics. Saini announced a yatra dedicated to Guru Ravidas to promote social harmony and equality across states.

Praggnanandhaa leads after rapid phase at St. Louis, blitz next

Praggnanandhaa leads after rapid phase at St. Louis, blitz next

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa topped the St. Louis Rapid section with 12 points from 18 games, maintaining his Grand Chess Tour finals hopes despite a final round loss to Jorden van Foreest. His performance featured four wins and four draws. He now faces 18 blitz games, with key competitors Sindarov and So trailing closely behind him. The event precedes the Sinquefield Cup, a classical tournament.

In truth, happiness flows in the moment we stop burdening it with conditions. Even the best people have a flawed side—they cheat, betray, or let us down. It is human to err, but it is equally human to rise above the situation and mend broken trust. It matters less how badly something shattered, and more how well you can repair it. (Shutterstock/ Representational image)

Spice of Life: Finding happiness in the grace of forgetting well

The article explores the distinct responses to life's adversities, contrasting individuals who gracefully bear trauma with those bogged down by grievances. It highlights the stoic strength of a woman who, despite immense loss, offers support to others without seeking sympathy. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of embracing happiness by letting go of past pains to foster resilience and personal growth.

Bilal Gani Lone. (File)

Bilal Lone seeks people’s support after hinting at mainstream political entry

Bilal Gani Lone, a former associate of the Hurriyat Conference, has expressed interest in entering mainstream politics, asking for a chance from the public in Handwara. Emphasizing new leadership and change, he seeks to distance himself from past separatist ties. Bilal, whose brother Sajad Lone shifted to pro-India politics in 2009, aims to revive local political engagement.

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah plays golf during the inauguration of the J&K Open PGTI Golf Tournament, in Srinagar on Tuesday. (ANI)

J&K govt planning to establish golf academy in Kashmir: Omar

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced plans to establish a golf academy to nurture young talent, emphasizing the region's golfing potential during the J&K Open's inauguration. The tournament, marking a significant return of professional golf, attracted over 100 golfers. Abdullah aims to promote golf tourism as a key element of J&K's broader tourism strategy.

According to the report placed before the court by the SSP, Crime Branch (EOW), the Crime Branch received the complaint on May 11 and forwarded it to its headquarters on May 20 for approval regarding the further course of action. (File)

Vaishno Devi ‘fake silver’ offering row: Jammu court seeks report, action on evidence-preservation plea

A local court in Jammu has mandated a comprehensive investigation by police into the alleged ₹550-crore “fake silver” offerings at the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. The chief judicial magistrate’s directive, issued on July 29, seeks a report on evidence preservation amidst claims of misappropriation of approximately 20 tonnes of silver. Background details indicate that the inquiry began with a complaint filed in May.

The Himalayan Serow recorded in camera. (Screenshot)

Himalayan Serow makes camera debut in Dalhousie

For the first time, the elusive Himalayan Serow has been recorded on camera in the Dhauladhar range, Himachal Pradesh, confirming its presence in the region. Previously thought extinct, the sighting occurred during a routine patrol near the Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary. Classified as Vulnerable, this discovery emphasizes the ecological richness and biodiversity of the area, underscoring the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.

The Tamil Nadu government has maintained that the setup of any reservoir in an upper riparian state could curtail downstream flow and needed detailed scrutiny by the statutory bodies overseeing Cauvery water management, as well as the consent of all states sharing the Cauvery water system. (PTI)

A duel whose name was writ on Cauvery waters

The crisis over Cauvery water sharing between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka escalates, with Karnataka asserting the Mekedatu Dam Project as a solution while Tamil Nadu insists on regulatory scrutiny. Political tensions, including calls for statewide protests and lack of bipartisan support in Tamil Nadu, hinder effective dialogue. Historical context underscores the long-standing nature of these disputes.

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath in the assembly in Lucknow on Tuesday. (Deepak Gupta/HT)

Amid Opposition protests, UP govt presents 59,019.54 crore supplementary budget

The Uttar Pradesh government, amidst opposition protests regarding alleged Ram temple donation theft, presented a supplementary budget of ₹59,019.54 crore for 2026-27 during the Monsoon session. The budget focuses on development, especially in health and energy sectors, while opposition MLAs disrupted proceedings demanding discussions on the donation issue, leading to further tensions in the assembly.

Two alleged gang member of the smugglers who were caught after the courier was looted (HT Photo)

Gold smuggling through Lko’s CCSIA: Greed induced double-cross exposes inter-state gang; 2 held

Lucknow police arrested two members of a gold smuggling syndicate involving couriers from Gulf countries. Initially offering free tickets home, the gang coerced individuals into smuggling gold hidden in body cavities. After a double-cross involving greed, accused Deepak Verma and Ram Pratap Dubey were apprehended, while Mahboob Alam, the courier, is aiding further investigations.

A fire broke out in the gynaecology ward of the mother and child department at the Jalandhar Civil Hospital on Tuesday morning (HT)

Pregnant women, newborns evacuated after blaze at Jalandhar hospital ward

A fire at Jalandhar Civil Hospital's gynaecology ward early Tuesday was swiftly contained, allowing 60 patients, including pregnant women and newborns, to evacuate safely. The blaze sparked from a short-circuit in air conditioners, prompting immediate action from hospital staff and the fire brigade. An inspection of the hospital's electrical systems is underway to prevent future incidents.

Under the state quota, in-service doctors receive a 40% reservation. (HT FILE)

HC upholds Haryana’s admission policy for in-service doctors

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld Haryana's September 2024 admissions policy for MD/MS courses, granting a 40% reservation for in-service doctors, regardless of their service in rural areas. The court emphasized the state's right to enhance medical facilities in underserved regions and noted valid distinctions between those who've served in challenging areas and those who haven't, ensuring improved healthcare access.

DK Shivakumar

Resignation a part of politics: DKS over legislators’ threats

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar warned disgruntled Congress legislators threatening resignation after missing out on ministerial positions during the recent cabinet expansion, stating he would accept resignations swiftly. He urged patience, emphasizing party loyalty and upcoming opportunities in state boards. Amidst claims of internal discontent, Shivakumar denied any rift following former CM Siddaramaiah’s absence. Meanwhile, the BJP criticized the lack of female representation in the cabinet.

All details about Lock Upp Sach ya Sazaa's final redemption day.

Lock Upp season 2 grand finale: When and where to watch final redemption day

Lock Upp Season 2's grand finale, airing today at 8 pm on Netflix, will see finalists Shivangi Joshi and Shreya Kalra vying for the Rs 1 crore trophy after intense competition and viewer involvement secured their spots. The finale will feature celebrity jury questioning, thrilling tasks, and special performances, culminating in the winner's reveal after weeks of drama and rivalries.

A tree fell over a vehicle following a continuous downpour and strong winds in Patiala on Tuesday. (ANI)

143 mm rain drowns Patiala, exposes civic lapses

Heavy rains in Patiala on Tuesday caused widespread flooding, impacting numerous localities and exposing the city’s inadequate stormwater drainage system. With 143 mm of rainfall recorded, the IMD issued a yellow alert, warning of continued wet weather. Residents criticized the municipal authorities for failing to desilt drains pre-monsoon, demanding urgent repairs and compensation.

Nail lamps can cause skin cancer

Excessive use of UVA lamps can cause skin cancer, cautions a dermatologist

Gel manicures, popular for their long-lasting glossy finish, may pose skin cancer risks due to UVB lamp exposure used during application. Dermatologist Dr. Ritika Shanmugam warns that cumulative UV exposure can lead to genetic mutations and skin damage. High-risk individuals should take precautions, such as using SPF, UV-protective gloves, and opting for LED lamps to safeguard their skin.

These dishwashers are designed keeping in view Indian cooking patterns.

Is a dishwasher worth buying for Indian families? Pros, cons and hidden truths

Adoption of dishwashers in India is increasing due to busy lifestyles and rising water concerns, despite historical reluctance rooted in cultural norms and misconceptions about efficacy and water use. Modern models now address Indian cooking demands, featuring specialized cycles and better hygiene. However, potential buyers must consider practicality, space, and ongoing costs before purchasing.