UP Congress chief writes to PM, seeks probe into ethanol-blended fuel policy

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai urged Prime Minister Modi to investigate the Centre’s ethanol-blended fuel policy, claiming it neglects vehicle owners’ concerns. He criticized the government’s push towards E20, E85, and E100 blends, asserting they threaten public interest. Rai previously called for transparency amid allegations that ethanol fuel is priced similarly to regular petrol, lacking accountability for blending issues.

Andrea Pirlo out of running for Italy coach job due to Russian betting links

Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from consideration as Italy's next head coach amid controversy over his association with a Russian betting company, Fonbet, which conflicted with Italy's gambling laws. Initially the leading candidate, he faced political pressure that ultimately led to his disqualification, despite support from Paolo Maldini and Leonardo. Silvio Baldini remains caretaker manager while other candidates emerge.

Carly Simon husband and kids: Grammy Award-wining singer reveals health scare

Carly Simon, 81, has publicly revealed her Parkinson's disease diagnosis, sharing her struggles and adapting to the condition. After initial health issues led to further assessments, she expressed gratitude for support from loved ones and emphasized the disease's challenges. Alongside this, she also treated basal cell carcinoma, highlighting her difficult health journey.

Viral video sparks dating rumours between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Mrunal Thakur

Cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal and actor Mrunal Thakur sparked dating rumors after a viral video showed them at a Bandra West café, leading fans to speculate about their relationship. Social media buzzed with comments, ranging from queries about their connection to guesses about potential collaborations. Mrunal was last seen in *Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai*, while Yashasvi recently played in the ODI series against Afghanistan.

Delhi HC directs removal Of ‘Kala Hiran’ teaser allegedly inspired by Salman Kha

The Delhi High Court ordered the removal of the teaser for the film "Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy," which allegedly references Salman Khan's 1998 blackbuck poaching case, within 24 hours, as directed in an application by Khan’s lawyer, Parag Khandhar. The court noted clear likenesses to Khan, including a lookalike wearing his signature bracelet, necessitating this action.

Problematics | Book # 6

This week's puzzle, derived from a Mensa puzzle by Alan Wareham, challenges readers to identify the unique arrangement of 11 classic novels based on specific clues, including the placement of titles like "Frankenstein" and "Pride and Prejudice." The puzzle's adaptation includes additional conditions to enhance complexity. Background includes the original source and the puzzle’s aim for reader engagement.

Offers to help CJP volunteers get home emerge as Jantar Mantar protest ends

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest ended after the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, with the government agreeing to key demands, including compensation for families of students who died by suicide over a NEET paper leak and withdrawing cases against protesters. Support for protesters returning home is being organized by activists, though reports of continued detentions in some states have raised concerns over the government's assurances. The CJP urges the government to honor these commitments.

Supreme Court reserves decision on Abu Salem plea for his release

The Supreme Court has reserved orders on gangster Abu Salem’s plea for release, asserting he has completed his 25-year sentence. His appeal follows the Bombay high court's dismissal of his petition. Salem, extradited to India, received life sentences for a 1995 murder and the 1993 Mumbai blasts, with his incarceration period in dispute. He claims his term began in 2002, while the government states it started in 2005.

Neurologist warns of a brain and spine condition that is often 'misdiagnosed'

Dr. Praveen Gupta, a neurologist, emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS), a debilitating disease affecting young women in India. Symptoms include blurred vision, numbness, weakness, and fatigue. Early diagnosis enhances treatment efficacy, allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life. Misinterpretation of symptoms can lead to delays in obtaining necessary care.

US woman shares 5 'craziest' things that surprised her most in India. Watch

An American woman, Macy Gonsalvez, sparked a lively debate online after sharing five "crazy" aspects of life in India, including the prohibition on revealing a baby's gender before birth, the country's late-night social culture, and unique water heating systems. Her observations prompted varied user reactions, highlighting affordable healthcare and conveniences like quick delivery services. Gonsalvez's insights reflect cultural adjustments and conveniences encountered while living in India.

Kai Sato: California man missing for over a month found drifting in Ocean

A California man, Kai Sato, 39, was rescued alive after drifting in the Pacific Ocean for over a month, surviving on minimal food and seawater condensation. His sailboat broke two weeks into his solo trip to Hawaii. After being spotted by a container ship, Sato expressed joy and gratitude for his rescue. He plans to travel to the Philippines next.

Therapist Jeffrey Meltzer shares 5 subtle green flag signs to look out for

Therapist Jeffrey Meltzer identifies five subtle green flags in relationships: 1) Respectful boundary-setting without aggression; 2) Genuinely kind individuals who help without expecting anything in return; 3) The ability to admire others without feeling inferior; 4) Consistency in honoring commitments; and 5) Celebrating others' successes without competition. This guidance aids in recognizing positive character traits. Meltzer is a licensed mental health counselor in Florida.

Nvidia's $750B AI deals spark fears of an AI bubble and circular financing

Nvidia Corp. is pursuing AI infrastructure deals potentially exceeding $750 billion, heightening concerns over a possible AI bubble. A notable agreement with SK Group is valued at over $500 billion, while talks with OpenAI could secure up to $250 billion. Critics highlight circular financing risks, but Nvidia's CEO defends the strategy, emphasizing the ecosystem's growth.

Srikkanth slams Tilak, demands Patidar call-up: ‘Where is the consistency?’

Krishnamachari Srikkanth advocates for Rajat Patidar's inclusion in India's T20I team, questioning Tilak Varma's performance, especially after a lackluster showing in the series against Zimbabwe, where he scored just 11 runs. Despite India's dominance in the series, Srikkanth emphasized Patidar's credentials, urging for a call-up. He also criticized the team's fielding and proposed shifting to tri-series formats for increased engagement.

‘Filth, garbage’: Kangana reacts to ‘puke inducing’ Gen Z protest videos

BJP MP Kangana Ranaut harshly criticized Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protesters, calling them "filth" and expressing disgust at videos of their demonstrations. She claimed they left "sixty metric tonnes of waste" at Jantar Mantar. The CJP, protesting examination irregularities, has pushed for accountability; their recent protests contributed to the resignation of education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Esha grabs gold, Manu settles for bronze in women's 25m pistol at ISSF World Cup

Indian shooter Esha Singh won gold in the women's 25m pistol event at the ISSF World Cup, defeating Olympic-medallist Manu Bhaker, who claimed bronze. Esha scored 40 hits in the final, while Manu secured her medal after a shoot-off with 28 hits. Both athletes excelled in qualification, and their performances mark significant achievements for India.

Lock Upp 2: Harshad Chopda in love with Shivangi Joshi? Sufi, Dheeraj reveal

Sufi Motiwala clarified that Harshad Chopda and Shivangi Joshi are not in love but are simply "dramatic best friends." The speculation arose from their interactions and a comment by Shilpa Shinde dubbing them 'lovebirds.' Despite rumors, Motiwala emphasized their friendship and urged others to let them be. Meanwhile, Lock Upp Season 2 nears its semi-final, sparking discussions about relationships among contestants.

Delhi HC grants Cong leaders 3 weeks to respond to ED plea in National Herald case

The Delhi High Court has granted Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi three weeks to respond to the ED's petition challenging a special court's dismissal of its chargesheet in the National Herald money laundering case. The special court deemed the ED's approach legally flawed, stating a prosecution under the PMLA must stem from a law enforcement agency.

India must prevent its way to better health

India stands on the brink of becoming a leading economy, but it faces the critical challenge of maintaining population health. A shift towards self-care is emerging, as individuals prioritize proactive health choices. With non-communicable diseases dominating national health costs, enhancing health literacy and access to preventive care is essential. Collective efforts in policy, industry, and personal health choices can drive this transformation.

Real impact of employment starts with the first job

India's employment landscape emphasizes not just job creation but the quality of first jobs, crucial for young people's long-term career success. With a 3.1% overall unemployment and 9.9% youth unemployment, the focus must shift to fostering skills and confidence through structured roles. Investment in first-job experiences enhances career trajectories and supports economic growth, demanding collaboration between educators and employers.

Air filter wall, oil tankers and more: Trump goes on an AI image spree

US President Donald Trump, on Truth Social, accused Canada of causing polluted air in the US due to forest mismanagement, warning of tariffs as a consequence. Amid AI-generated posts, he portrayed himself as the nation’s savior and suggested a giant air-filter wall at the border. Relations with Canada remain strained amid forest fire impacts.

Ram Mandir theft: A test of our dharma, not of God’s power

Reports of donation theft at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya raise concerns about the sacred space's integrity, prompting questions: If God exists, why allow such wrongdoing? Hindu teachings suggest God permits moral choices, emphasizing that virtue only exists with the possibility of vice. True devotion lies in maintaining a pure heart, transcending material failures.

Opportunity and avenues to save critical to women’s access to finance

The 2025 Global Findex Database reveals that nearly 90% of Indian women own bank accounts, up from 78% in 2021, but many lack financial resilience as 65% cannot cover expenses for a month after income loss. Women often rely on family for emergency funds, highlighting the need for targeted financial solutions to enhance formal savings and economic empowerment.

Monsoon but still dealing with dry skin? Doctor says your AC could be the reason

Dryness during the monsoon may arise from air-conditioned environments, which reduce humidity and lead to moisture loss, emphasizes dermatologist Dr. Kanika Popli. Oily skin can also be dehydrated; thus, consistent moisturizing and gentle cleansing are essential. Notably, sunscreen remains crucial even on cloudy days for long-term skin health. Skincare routines should focus on simplicity.

Towards an inclusive Indo-Pacific

On July 22, Quad foreign ministers from the US, India, Japan, and Australia met in Manila, reaffirming commitment to a free Indo-Pacific and ASEAN unity. However, skepticism arises as Quad's initiatives show limited progress amidst a shifting US focus. India strengthens ties with Japan and Australia while advocating for an inclusive Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions with China.

Geopolitical implications of the Houthi threat

On July 23, Saudi Arabia reported attacks on two oil tankers by the Houthis militia in the Red Sea, escalating oil prices to $100 per barrel amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have threatened maritime trade, disrupting global supply chains. These events highlight regional volatility impacting economies worldwide, particularly for energy-dependent countries like India.

Coaching as a parallel education system

India's education system faces immense parental dissatisfaction, prompting families to invest significantly in private coaching due to a lack of confidence in schools. Coaching centres have morphed into alternative education systems, prioritizing exam preparation over holistic learning, thus skewing definitions of success. To restore faith in education, reforms must improve classroom rigor and ensure equitable opportunities for all students.

Rain or spills, these smartphones are built to keep going

Amazon reviews highlight the XIAOMI 17 Ultra for its exceptional Leica cameras, performance, and display. While it boasts top-tier specifications, some users note HyperOS's polish and bulkiness as downsides. With IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings, it delivers premium durability, making it a standout choice for photography enthusiasts and power users seeking a reliable smartphone.

Gynaecologist shares when it is normal and when you should see a doctor?

Spotting between periods is often normal, with common causes including ovulation bleeding, implantation bleeding, and breakthrough bleeding from hormonal contraception, as noted by Dr. Megha Jindal. However, recurring spotting may indicate health issues like endometriosis or hormonal imbalances affecting fertility. Evaluation typically involves a history review and hormonal tests. Awareness of consistent spotting is crucial for those trying to conceive.

Fears of Hormuz-like chokehold by China: Where India stands amid global churn

The latest ‘Point Blank’ discussion highlights the US-China rivalry and Middle East tensions reshaping global strategies. The East Asia Summit emphasized the Indo-Pacific's importance, with nations opposing China's maritime expansion. Concurrently, India and the US navigate complex ties, focusing on mutual geopolitical interests amid rising Iranian threats. A precarious global landscape emerges, underscoring military power against economic interdependence.