Gold loan outstanding of banks rises 43.4% in 1st half of FY25

French President Emmanuel Macron urged Russia to accept the US-brokered proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, stressing the need to end atrocities. Macron criticized Russia for delaying statements and assured France's unwavering support for Ukraine's peace efforts, announcing a video conference with partners to address the issue. Full Article

Retired Test opener David Warner doubts whether England's aggressive "Bazball" approach will succeed in Australia due to bouncier pitches and high-risk tactics. The strategy, led by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, saw mixed results, with England failing to retain the Ashes and losing in India. Warner, now playing for London Spirit in The Hundred, is eager for the challenge and expects a mixed reception from fans at Lord's, where tensions flared during the 2023 Ashes....

Pakistan army reported that 18 of the 26 hostages killed by Balochistan Liberation Army militants in a train ambush were army and paramilitary soldiers, with five paramilitary soldiers of Frontier Corps dying during the operation. The terrorists attacked the Jaffar Express, holding over 400 passengers hostage, leading to a security forces operation that resulted in the deaths of all 33 terrorists and the rescue of more than 300 passengers. The operation lasted 30 hours, with...

BRS legislators filed complaints against Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for making criminal comments against former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, alleging physical harm intentions and seeking legal action. They lodged complaints at Pet Basheerabad and Film Nagar police stations, accusing Mr. Revanth Reddy of threatening to eliminate Mr. Chandrasekhar Rao and urging police to register cases under relevant laws and ensure Mr. Chandrasekhar Rao's security. Full Article

Paris, Rome, and London have ordered new air defense missiles in response to a US policy shift in ties with Europe, where President Trump questioned the US role in NATO. The joint statement by France, Italy, and the United Kingdom confirms the order of 218 additional Aster missiles and accelerated delivery of previously ordered missiles, demonstrating their commitment to bolstering air defense capabilities. This move comes amid pressure for European governments to enhance defense measures...

Russian President Vladimir Putin urged Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region to surrender, following a plea from US President Donald Trump to spare their lives. Putin assured that if the soldiers lay down their arms, they would receive guaranteed life and dignified treatment. He called on Ukraine's leaders to issue an order for their troops to surrender, in line with Trump's call for mercy. Full Article