PM Modi Condemns Terrorism at BRICS Summit
At the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi didn’t mince words: terrorism is a “grave threat to humanity.” Speaking on peace and global governance, he condemned the April 22 Pahalgam attack, a sentiment echoed by all BRICS leaders. Modi stressed that those funding or sheltering terrorists must face harsh consequences. He also pushed for urgent reforms in global bodies like the UN Security Council, arguing they’re outdated for today’s challenges. Developing nations, he said, need more support for sustainable growth. Modi proposed a BRICS science repository and AI cooperation to boost the Global South’s voice. The summit’s declaration reflected India’s priorities, especially on UN reforms. With a multipolar world in focus, Modi’s vision for BRICS is clear: unity and innovation for a balanced global order. Tomorrow, he’ll tackle climate and health issues.
Bihar’s Electoral Revision Sparks Upper-Caste Disquiet
In Bihar’s Saurath village, known for its Brahmin marriage gatherings, a different wait grips residents. The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls has everyone, including upper castes, scrambling for domicile certificates. Only 150 of 2,200 applications have been processed in Saurath, says Vibhakar Jha. Upper castes, over 15% of Bihar’s population, feel harassed by extra document demands. This echoes frustrations among marginalised groups like EBCs and minorities. In Madhubani, locals like Satish Chandra Mishra worry about losing votes due to migration. The revision, meant to clean voter lists, is causing chaos, with complaints of uncooperative officials. Even BJP leaders hear grumbles. For Poonam Kumari, a cancer survivor, securing her certificate was a triumph. As state polls loom, this “political harakiri” could shift Bihar’s electoral mood, affecting all parties.
Shubhanshu Shukla’s Space Experiments on Axiom Mission 4
High above Earth, Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom Mission 4 crew are pushing science forward on the International Space Station. On Day 12, Shukla studied myogenesis, examining how space weakens muscles, crucial for astronaut health. He also worked on the Space Micro Algae project, exploring how these tiny organisms could provide food and oxygen for deep-space missions. Meanwhile, Tibor Kapu investigated fruit fly DNA to improve radiation protection. The crew tested wearable sound monitors for better noise tracking and used AI for health scans. Nanomaterials were also studied for medical wearables. Beyond science, Commander Peggy Whitson and Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski shared mission updates, blending personal stories with high-tech goals. With Poland and Texas engaging in talks, this mission is about people and progress, shaping humanity’s future beyond our planet.
Nico Hulkenberg’s Podium Snub at British Grand Prix
Nico Hulkenberg’s first-ever Formula 1 podium at the British Grand Prix was a fairytale moment. Starting 19th, the 37-year-old Sauber driver clinched third, outpacing legends like Lewis Hamilton. His clever strategy in tricky conditions led to Sauber’s first podium in 13 years. But the celebration turned sour. McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who took first and second, ignored Hulkenberg during the podium festivities, sparking fan outrage on social media. Labelled selfish, the duo focused on their team instead of acknowledging Hulkenberg’s milestone. Still, the veteran stayed upbeat, showered with champagne by Mercedes and Aston Martin. “It’s surreal,” he said, reflecting on his 239-race journey. This triumph puts Sauber, soon to be Audi, on an upward trajectory, proving grit and timing can beat the odds.
Shubman Gill Shines in India’s Historic Test Win
India’s cricket team made history at Edgbaston, crushing England by 336 runs to level the Test series 1-1. Shubman Gill, the young captain, led with a stunning 430-run match tally, including a 269 and a rapid 161. Akash Deep, stepping in for Jasprit Bumrah, stole the show with a 10-wicket haul, dismantling England’s batting. Sachin Tendulkar praised Gill’s “sublime” innings and Deep’s dream spell, especially a gem to dismiss Joe Root. Sourav Ganguly noted India’s dominance without Bumrah, calling Gill’s leadership and batting “fantastic.” VVS Laxman hailed the team’s spirit. England, chasing a record 608, collapsed to 271. This win, India’s first at Edgbaston in nine attempts, sets the stage for a thrilling third Test at Lord’s, with Gill proving India’s future is bright.
Jio BlackRock Raises $2.1 Billion in First Fund
Jio BlackRock Asset Management hit a milestone, raising over $2.1 billion in its first fund offering. In just three days, the mutual fund schemes drew 90 institutional investors and 67,000 retail investors. This blockbuster debut signals strong confidence in the partnership between Jio and BlackRock, blending local expertise with global financial muscle. The funds, focused on cash and debt schemes, aim to deliver stable returns for diverse investors. While details on specific allocations remain sparse, the massive inflow highlights India’s growing appetite for mutual funds. This success could reshape the investment landscape, offering accessible options for retail investors while attracting big players. Jio BlackRock’s swift fundraising sets a high bar, and all eyes are on how they’ll deploy this capital to drive growth and innovation in India’s financial sector.
CJI Gavai Champions Marathi Education Amid Language Row
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai made a heartfelt case for mother-tongue education, saying it fosters better understanding and lasting values. Speaking at his old Marathi-medium school in Mumbai, he credited his roots for his success. His comments come amid Maharashtra’s heated language debate. The BJP-led government’s April resolution mandating Hindi as a third language in primary schools sparked outrage from parties like Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, who accused it of undermining Marathi pride. After protests, the government backtracked, allowing other language options, then scrapped the resolution entirely on June 29. Uddhav and Raj Thackeray celebrated this as a win for Marathi identity. Gavai’s personal story, honed by elocution and cultural events, underscored how mother-tongue learning builds confidence and character, resonating deeply in a state fiercely protective of its linguistic heritage.
