Jaishankar questions relevance of Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi defence pact

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for a pragmatic relationship with China amidst strained ties following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. He underscored the importance of continuing business with China and other nations while maintaining national confidence. Jaishankar also addressed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, noting India's assessment of its implications on security and regional stability.

Jinxed? Lko-Knp E-way faces fresh soil erosion

The Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway faces significant soil erosion, threatening a major collapse near Bandukheda, with 10 meters of road shoulder washed away. Recent damage includes the Chiraiya Nala culvert, where erosion has compromised structural integrity. Repair efforts are ongoing as concerns about construction quality rise due to repeated erosion since July. NHAI awaits an IIT Khadakpur report for further assessment.

France’s badminton surge gathers pace with Alex Lanier

France has emerged as a significant force in badminton, highlighted by Alex Lanier's historic advance to the World Championships final, marking the country's first medal at this event. The team's success includes a shocking Thomas Cup run and a European Men's Championship victory. With three players in the top 15, Belgium's structured development is showing dividends on the international stage.

Chandigarh Chord | The school that grew with Chandigarh

St. John’s High School, established in 1959 in Chandigarh, is more than an educational institution; it embodies the city’s youthful spirit. While its modernist architecture reflects Chandigarh’s planning ideals, it is the memories of camaraderie, play, and personal growth that resonate with alumni. As Chandigarh evolves, St. John’s remains a nostalgic anchor in the city’s collective memory.

For an hour, Delhi disappeared into candlelight and jazz

The Candlelight initiative's "The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans" captivated audiences on August 16 at Piano Man, showcasing local musicians and creating an intimate atmosphere with candlelight and live jazz. The event, designed to democratize music access, surprisingly garnered phenomenal responses, with more performances anticipated later this year, aiming to broaden appreciation for diverse genres.

UP Board makes 18% GST mandatory on recognition fee

Schools in Uttar Pradesh must now pay an 18% GST on recognition fees, effective April 1, 2026, as mandated by the UP Board. Applications without GST will be rejected. Institutions must pay the fee into the state treasury and then submit GST payments separately, as per the new regulations rooted in a 2024 finance ministry directive.

Waterlogging in Prayagraj sparks scrutiny, HC seeks permanent solution

Severe waterlogging in Prayagraj has prompted urgent action from the Allahabad high court, which directed officials to submit a long-term flood prevention plan. The administration criticized for drainage blockages is deploying 43 pumps and conducting sanitation measures. Continuous rainfall exacerbated flooding in vulnerable areas. Rural villages also reported significant crop losses due to overflowing water bodies.

After World Championships, Gopichand turns focus to the Asian Games

New Delhi: After a historic women’s doubles bronze at the BWF World Championships, chief national coach Pullela Gopichand outlines a focused approach for the Asian Games ahead, emphasizing specialized coaching for a deep roster. While celebrating Gayatri Gopichand’s achievement, he remains optimistic about the team's camaraderie. This reflects India's evolving badminton landscape, targeting future mixed doubles success.

UP apprises HC on construction of trauma centre in Prayagraj

In a recent PIL, the Allahabad High Court addressed the urgent need for a trauma center at Motilal Nehru Medical College, with the state government proposing a 180-day timeline for DPR approval and contractor selection. The court criticized state officials for delays, urging immediate action to meet the healthcare needs of Prayagraj and surrounding areas. Concerns were also raised about delays in completing the children’s wing at SN Children’s Hospital, with UPSCIDCO required to explain its performance.

₹75 lakh heist in Delhi: How a fired worker's robbery plot was exposed

In a daylight robbery in Delhi's Ashok Vihar on August 19, a former employee orchestrated a heist, stealing Rs 75 lakh and valuables while holding the homeowner's wife at knifepoint. Police arrested six men and two juveniles, recovering Rs 51.52 lakh. The juvenile mastermind, fired for misconduct, had surveilled the house for a month prior.

Ganga, Yamuna swell towards danger mark, cremations shift to roads

Flood threats escalated in Prayagraj as Ganga and Yamuna levels surged toward danger marks, submerging roads and affecting localities. The Ganga reached 81.19 metres and the Yamuna 80.84 metres by Saturday evening, impacted by water from upstream barrages. Residents have begun evacuating to relief shelters amid concerns for temples and cremation sites. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

IIT-B sets new record for PhDs awarded

IIT Bombay awarded a record 620 PhDs during its 64th convocation, emphasizing a six-year completion limit to enhance PhD efficiency. Director Shireesh Kedare highlighted initiatives to attract undergraduates to PhD programs and address Gen Z’s challenges, including distractions from social media and parental expectations. The ceremony celebrated 3,763 degrees awarded across various disciplines, marking a milestone for the institute.

Why is Josh Allen not playing today vs Browns? Is he injured? Reason revealed

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen will not play in the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns, prioritizing health and evaluating team depth instead. Allen had a strong preseason debut, completing 6 of 8 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown. This decision follows a productive joint practice, allowing younger players to showcase their skills.

What happened to Ed Oliver's 2-year-old son?

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver remains unavailable for the game against the Cleveland Browns, reportedly due to mourning the tragic loss of his two-year-old son in a drowning accident. While the team initially cited injury for his absence, unconfirmed reports suggest deeper issues. Sources close to Oliver request privacy as details unfold amidst growing rumors and speculation.

Ganesh Chaturthi: Delhi is all hands-on to craft Bappa idols

As Delhiites eagerly await Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14, workshops for crafting Ganesha idols are gaining popularity, emphasizing hands-on participation. Artists offer sessions ranging from group classes to private instruction, with an eco-friendly focus. These workshops foster family bonding and devotion while allowing creativity at individual paces, transforming idol-making into a cherished communal experience beyond traditional celebrations.

DUSU election rolls out portal to report defacement on campus

Delhi University has launched an online portal for reporting defacement ahead of the DUSU elections to curb excessive campaigning. Anyone, including non-students, can report issues, ensuring anonymity. Complaints can include images or videos of violations, fostering responsibility among students. This initiative aims to maintain a clean campus and engage the community in overseeing electoral decorum.

Tharoor amid Vande Mataram row: ‘We will all stand up for entire thing if…'

In the ongoing Congress-BJP conflict over Vande Mataram, MP Shashi Tharoor confirmed Congress's stance of singing one stanza of the national anthem and two verses of Vande Mataram since 1937. The BJP has issued a resolution defending the complete version of the song and condemning Congress's decision, asserting that it reflects broader political dynamics.

Treesa, Gayatri hit the high notes despite semi-final loss

In an electrifying semi-final at the BWF World Championships, Indian women's doubles pair Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand secured a historic bronze medal amidst a cheering crowd of 8,000. Despite losing to world No. 1s Liu Shen Shu and Tan Ning, their journey showcased resilience, marking a significant achievement for Indian badminton, following their recent Arjuna award recognition.

Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods from Sept 8 as trade talks fail

The U.S. imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian goods, effective soon, after failed negotiations. Canada plans to retaliate with similar tariffs starting Sept. 8, targeting key industries like steel and agriculture. President Trump’s measures affect 5% of Canada’s annual exports, marking a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two allies.

Indian woman loses purse in Japan, stranger returns ₹1 lakh valuables intact

An Indian woman, Sonam Midha, expressed her gratitude after losing her purse in Japan, only to find it returned intact by a stranger to the police. Users online shared similar positive experiences, praising Japan’s kindness. Midha's video highlighted the emotional impact of the incident, showcasing the country's reputation for integrity. Such stories reinforce Japan's exceptional cultural values regarding honesty and community.

Farmer leader’s ‘torture in custody’: 8 cops sent to lines on new Meerut SSP’s order

New Meerut SSP BBGTS Murthy has ordered action against eight police personnel for allegedly torturing Bharatiya Kisan Union leaders in custody. The personnel were reassigned to police lines. Following complaints from leader Digvijay Bhati about an attack during a protest meeting, an investigation into former SSP Avinash Pandey was launched, despite police disputing the abuse claims based on the victims' criminal history.

Guest column | Sunday chores, cervical pain & self-care lesson

A Sunday morning of excruciating neck and arm pain prompted urgent medical consultation, revealing a diagnosis of cervical issues linked to lifestyle choices. Supported by diverse treatments and advice, the writer underscores the importance of regular exercise, proper ergonomics, and stress reduction. With proper care, managing cervical pain is possible, reflecting broader lifestyle impacts on health.

Natalie Harp reacts to ‘human printer’ tag amid security clearance concerns

Natalie Harp, a key aide to Donald Trump, humorously addressed her "human printer" nickname in letters to him, highlighting her role in printing pro-Trump articles. Having gained recent prominence in Washington, she resembles Ivanka Trump in style. Concerns about her security clearance surfaced as she reportedly avoided vetting, but the White House affirmed her loyalty and clearance.

China-bound vessel with 24 crew members sinks 200 NM off Odisha’s Paradip port

The MV Ocean-Winner, an iron-ore laden vessel bound for China with 24 crew members aboard, has sunk after departing from Paradip port. The incident occurred approximately 200 nautical miles off the coast of Paradip. This maritime disaster highlights ongoing concerns regarding shipping safety in treacherous waters and the challenges faced by maritime operations in the region.

India all but out of semi-finals race after losing to Netherlands in Hockey WC

India's chances of advancing in the Hockey World Cup are dim after a 3-1 loss to the Netherlands. Despite holding the Dutch to a draw for much of the match, India conceded in the third quarter. Harmanpreet Singh scored late from a penalty corner, but it was insufficient against goals from Telgenkamp, Hoedemakers, and van Dam.

Wanted accused fleeing STF allegedly runs over pedestrian with Thar in Ludhiana

A wanted man, Gurpreet Singh, was apprehended by Faridkot Police after running over a coconut seller with his speeding Mahindra Thar in Ludhiana's Sunder Nagar, seriously injuring the vendor. The incident began when the police pursued Singh, eventually leading to the collision. The coconut seller is hospitalized, while authorities investigate Singh's criminal background and associates.

NTA suspends private agency after power failure disrupts AIAPGET exam in Jaipur

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has rescheduled the AIAPGET exam for 49 candidates at a Jaipur center to September 1, 2026, due to a power failure. Details for the re-examination, to be held at Rajasthan College of Engineering for Women, will be shared via revised admit cards. This incident raises concerns amidst NTA's scrutiny for exam management failures, including recent removals of experts and a directive to enhance oversight.

Japanese delegation gets grand welcome in Kashi, visits Sarnath, Namo Ghat

A 75-member Japanese delegation, led by Yamanashi Prefecture Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, visited Varanasi, highlighting India's rich Buddhist heritage. They toured Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and experienced the Ganga Aarti at Namo Ghat. This visit fosters cultural ties between India and Japan and aims to boost Japanese tourism in Uttar Pradesh's historical sites.

Excl | Tom King, Damon Lindelof on making Lanterns more than a superhero show

Writers Tom King and Damon Lindelof are reshaping the superhero genre with "Lanterns," focusing on grounding its characters, Hal Jordan and John Stewart, in relatable human experiences. King emphasizes scale and realism to make superpowers feel authentic, while Lindelof believes compelling character narratives are crucial to engage both comic lovers and skeptics alike. Their approach prioritizes character over spectacle.

Ex-minister, son denied pre-arrest bail in snakebite deaths case

The Gadchiroli sessions court denied anticipatory bail to former Lok Sabha member Marotrao Kowase and his son, Vishwajit, linked to the snakebite deaths of three students at their tribal residential school. The court cited significant management negligence and potential influence over the investigation. Three other students remain hospitalized, prompting school license cancellation and government scrutiny.