ONGC opens new well in KG-D5 block to boost India’s energy sufficiency; Hardeep Puri hails ‘major milestone’

Russian forces are encircling the strategic eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, disrupting supply lines and steel production, prompting most residents to flee due to severe hardships and lack of basic utilities. Ukrainian forces are reinforcing defenses and leadership in response to the intensified Russian offensive, aiming to protect the city and its critical infrastructure. Full Article

Mamta Kulkarni was expelled from Kinnar Akhara at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, along with Mahamandaleshwar Laxminaryan Tripathi, who inducted her and faced accusations of violating rules. Rishi Ajay Das, founder of Kinnar Akhara, announced plans to restructure the sect after Kulkarni was designated as Mahamandaleshwar without his knowledge, prompting criticism from figures like Baba Ramdev and transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa for her sudden anointment and past involvement in drug cases. Full...

European leaders are facing pressure to increase military spending amidst the conflict in Ukraine and an isolationist U.S. presidency, as outdated equipment and undersized forces pose significant challenges. With Trump's push for a 5% GDP spending on defense and rising costs, European nations are considering shifting funds from social programs to enhance military capabilities against emerging threats. The debate over reallocation of resources highlights the necessity for European countries to strengthen their defense capabilities in...

The appointment of Mamta Kulkarni as Mahamandaleshwar has sparked a rift in the Kinnar Akhada, prompting founder Rishi Ajay to take action, potentially removing Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi. The announcement is expected today at noon, causing tensions and differing opinions within the religious community and leading to internal conflict within the influential Akhada. Full Article

Hamas confirmed the death of military leader Mohammed Deif and top commanders in an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis on July 13. Israel's military provided intelligence verifying Deif's death, while also releasing Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli and Thai hostages amid ceasefire negotiations. Full Article

Hamas-led militants in Gaza released eight hostages during a tense stand-off, as Israel prepares to release 110 Palestinian prisoners. The ceasefire, initiated after Hamas's October 7 attack, remains in place despite initial disagreements over the order of releases. Negotiations continue under international mediation to resolve the conflict between the two sides. Full Article