Payments major PhonePe launches firecracker insurance policy for Diwali | Insurance

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facing pressure to increase military spending amidst the conflict in Ukraine and an isolationist U.S. presidency, as outdated equipment and undersized forces pose significant challenges.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

The Cochin Shipyard Ltd has commenced construction of the seventh Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft for the Indian Navy, which will replace the existing Abhay-class ASW Corvettes, bolstering India's coastal defense capabilities significantly. The first ship is scheduled for completion by March 2025, marking a milestone in the modernization efforts of the Indian Navy and showcasing the country's commitment to enhancing its maritime security. Full Article

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the second Indian to go to space on the Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station in spring 2025, selected by ISRO and NASA. Peggy Whitson will command the mission, with Shukla as the pilot, as part of a diverse team that includes private astronauts from previous Axiom missions. The team has been training for months, with Shukla expressing excitement and confidence in their ability to...