The Haj Committee of India introduces a 20-day Haj package for 2026, a first, with 10,000 slots available via lottery if needed. Applications are due by July 31. India's quota is 1,75,000 pilgrims, 1,25,000 through HCOI, the rest via private operators. The short trip, from seven cities, costs the same as the longer 40-45 day pilgrimage due to pre-booked arrangements.
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Jyoti Jhangra, a BDS student at Sharda University, tragically died by suicide after being accused of forging a professor's signature on her project file. The incident led to her father being called to campus, and despite assurances from the HOD, Jyoti felt targeted by faculty.
A significant 6.5 magnitude earthquake rattled the Tanimbar Islands region of Indonesia, originating at a depth of 110 kilometers. While there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, the event underscores Indonesia's vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The Cabinet has approved significant green energy investments, raising NTPC's limit to Rs 20,000 crore and allowing NLC India to invest Rs 7,000 crore. These decisions aim to boost renewable energy capacity, with NTPC targeting 60GW by 2032. India has already achieved 50% non-fossil fuel electricity capacity, advancing its goals for 500GW by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070.
At Lord's, India dominated early, but England fought back late on day four. Indian pacers initially rattled England, who folded for 192. However, England's pacers then struck back, leaving India at 58/4. Tensions flared, with Stokes uprooting Akash Deep's stumps. Bumrah and Siraj's fiery spells troubled the English batters.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the aggressive left-handed opener, grabbed attention again in the second Youth Test against England U-19 with a quickfire 20 off 14 balls. This followed his impressive performance in the first match, where he scored a half-century and took two wickets. England U-19 posted 309, led by Ekansh Singh's century. Suryavanshi aims to contribute significantly in the second innings.
Congress is likely to contest fewer seats in Bihar than in 2020, aiming for 50-60 seats while prioritizing winnability after a disappointing performance last time. The party seeks alliance coherence and aims to strengthen the anti-NDA coalition by promoting Rahul Gandhi's message among backward classes. This strategic shift reflects lessons learned from past failures and a focus on unity.
A recent Harvard study, analyzing over 58,000 US nurses' birth records, reveals that families with three or more children are more likely to have all boys or all girls. For families with three boys, the chance of a fourth being male is 61%, while for three girls, it's 58% for another girl.
Nvidia's market dominance in AI chips faces challenges from competitors and clients developing custom silicon. While Nvidia's valuation soared, Microsoft, fueled by Azure's growth and OpenAI investment, is poised to reach a $4.5 trillion market cap. Analysts suggest Microsoft presents a more favorable investment opportunity due to its growth potential and strategic positioning in cloud computing and enterprise software.
Rishabh Pant has hinted at his recovery from a finger injury sustained during the third Test against England. He shared a video showcasing his participation in batting, fielding, and football drills, suggesting improved fitness.
Scottie Scheffler concluded the first day of the 2025 British Open at Royal Portrush just one stroke behind the leaders after a 3-under 68. Rory McIlroy showed composure with a 1-under round, a stark contrast to his previous outing at the same course. Bryson DeChambeau, along with other major stars, faces an uphill battle after a challenging start.