India is set to begin testing indigenous interceptor missiles next year under Project Kusha, a key component of Mission Sudarshan Chakra. The project aims to create a multi-layered air and missile defense shield by 2035, rivaling systems like the S-400. Development includes long-range surface-to-air missiles with ranges from 150-km to 350-km, with integration of various technologies for comprehensive defense.
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Despite escalating trade tensions, a top US official expressed optimism about the future of US-India relations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the strong bond between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi. While dismissing the possibility of the rupee becoming a global reserve currency, India has initiated export promotion programs in 40 key markets.
A PIL has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the collegium system's practice of considering minority community status when recommending candidates for High Court judgeships. The petitioners argue that such quotas based on religion violate the principle of secularism enshrined in the Constitution.
West Bengal has cautioned that granting governors the power to decide the fate of bills would undermine states' legislative functions. The Supreme Court's timeline for governors and the President would expedite the process of turning people's will into laws. The Constitution does not assign governors a dominating position in state legislative or executive functions, according to the TMC government.
Punjab declares itself a disaster-affected area as flood-related fatalities climb to 37, with seven new deaths reported on Wednesday. Among the victims were an elderly couple in Barnala district, killed when their house collapsed. The floods, impacting over 1,655 villages across 23 districts, have affected 3.
Mediterranean beaches reveal a hidden battle against plastic pollution through Neptune balls, formed by seagrass. These natural bundles trap significant amounts of plastic, highlighting the crucial role of seagrass meadows in combating ocean waste. Protecting these vital ecosystems is essential for both biodiversity and mitigating the impact of plastic pollution.
A preliminary investigation revealed that dual cloudbursts, not a glacial lake outburst flood, triggered the devastating flash floods in Kishtwar's Chasoti village on August 14, resulting in 65 fatalities. A prior government study had already warned of GLOF risks in vulnerable tehsils like Padder, Machail, Dachhan, Marwah, and Warwan, highlighting their susceptibility to sudden flooding events.
Cricket enthusiasts will face steeper prices for IPL tickets as the government has increased GST rates from 28% to 40%, categorising IPL viewing as a luxury activity alongside casinos. This significant hike means a Rs 1,000 ticket now costs Rs 1,400, up from Rs 1,280, impacting fans across India.
India is facing increased pressure from the US over its growing Russian oil imports, leading to a 50% tariff imposed by the Trump administration. Despite widening discounts on Russian Urals crude, making it cheaper than US alternatives, the US accuses India of funding Russia's war in Ukraine through these purchases.
India and Japan have launched an Economic Security Initiative, focusing on supply chain resilience and collaboration in sectors like semiconductors and clean energy. The countries are also strengthening ties through the Japan-India Artificial Intelligence Initiative, aiming to enhance cooperation in AI technologies. Both nations plan to increase people-to-people exchanges and foster business collaboration.
IIT-Madras has secured the top position in the NIRF 2025 "overall" category for the seventh consecutive year, while IISc-Bengaluru remains India's best university for the tenth year. Manipal Academy of Higher Education entered the top three in the university category for the first time. Delhi University colleges dominated the colleges list, with Hindu College at No. 1.