India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly rejected allegations by former Japanese minister Hideki Makihara that India was responsible for delays in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the remarks as an "individual opinion" that was "at considerable variance with facts." He reaffirmed that India and Japan continue to work closely and that discussions on the high-speed rail project are progressing smoothly. The MEA also clarified that the first section is expected to open in 2027 using Indian high-speed trains, while Japan's next-generation E10 Shinkansen trains remain under development for future deployment. (PC: X)

Brenda Fricker, the acclaimed Irish actress and the first Irish woman to win an Academy Award for acting, has died at the age of 81 after a period of ill health. She won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1990 for her unforgettable performance as Christy Brown's mother in My Left Foot. Fricker also earned worldwide recognition for playing the compassionate Pigeon Lady in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. With a career spanning more than six decades across film, television, and theatre, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy in Irish and international cinema. (PC: Reuters)

The Department of Space has tightened resignation and voluntary retirement rules for ISRO's Group 'A' scientists and engineers after reports that more than 100 personnel sought to leave in recent months. The directive instructs ISRO centres not to routinely accept exit requests from staff working on critical projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Any resignation request must now be sent to the Department of Space with the centre director's recommendations for final approval. The move aims to prevent disruptions to nationally important missions while addressing growing concerns over talent retention within India's premier space agency. (PC: ISRO)

Sir Garfield "Gary" Sobers, the legendary West Indies cricketer widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder in cricket history, has died at the age of 89 at his home in Barbados. Sobers became the first player to hit six sixes in a single over of first-class cricket in 1968 and held the Test record of 365 not out for 36 years. Across 93 Tests, he scored 8,032 runs and claimed 235 wickets. Knighted in 1975, Sobers inspired generations with his extraordinary versatility, leadership, and sportsmanship, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in world cricket. (PC: X)

Scientists have discovered 24-million-year-old fossilised leaves of the kewra (kevda) plant in Assam's Makum Coalfield, revealing that the species existed long before the Himalayas reached their present form and far before human civilisation. Researchers from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences found four exceptionally preserved leaves matching modern kewra plants. Published in the journal Geobios, the study suggests India served as a vital refuge for ancient tropical plant species during major climate changes. The discovery bridges a crucial gap in the plant's evolutionary history and offers valuable insights into biodiversity, climate evolution, and India's prehistoric ecosystems. (PC: Instagram)

Former Japanese Justice Minister Hideki Makihara blamed Indian authorities for delays in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, alleging poor coordination, missed commitments, and bureaucratic hurdles. He claimed these issues slowed the implementation of Japan's Shinkansen technology in India. Responding swiftly, India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected the remarks, calling them an individual opinion with "considerable variance with facts." The MEA reaffirmed that the flagship India-Japan high-speed rail project is progressing well through continued bilateral cooperation and regular discussions. Both governments remain committed to completing India's first bullet train corridor despite earlier land acquisition and implementation challenges. (PC: X)

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has emerged as the leading contender to replace Keir Starmer as leader of the UK Labour Party, according to political developments reported by Reuters. Burnham has gained strong backing from Labour members, trade unions and grassroots supporters, positioning him as the favourite to lead the party into the next general election. If elected Labour leader, he would become the party's candidate for Prime Minister. His campaign focuses on public services, economic reform and regional development. The leadership contest is expected to play a crucial role in shaping Britain's political future and Labour's direction. (PC: Reuters)

The United States has intensified its military operations against Iran, with US Marines boarding a vessel in the Gulf of Oman as part of enhanced maritime security efforts. The move follows expanded US airstrikes targeting Iranian military and infrastructure sites, escalating tensions across the Middle East. Iran has vowed retaliation, while regional security remains on high alert amid fears of further attacks on shipping routes and strategic waterways. The developments have heightened concerns over global energy supplies and the possibility of a broader regional war, as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis continue to face significant challenges. (PC: Reuters)

England manager Thomas Tuchel has come under intense criticism from the British media following England's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Newspapers questioned his tactical decisions, team selection and inability to guide a talented squad beyond the latter stages of the tournament. Several reports described England's campaign as disappointing, with concerns raised over the team's lack of creativity and attacking intent in crucial matches. The defeat has sparked widespread debate over Tuchel's future as head coach, with fans and pundits demanding answers after another missed opportunity to end England's long wait for a major international trophy. (PC: PTI)

India captain Rohit Sharma faces what could be his final chance to cement his place in Test cricket as India prepares for the decisive match against England at Lord's. With inconsistent performances and increasing scrutiny over his form, the series decider has taken on added significance for the veteran opener. A strong performance could silence critics and reaffirm his leadership, while another failure may intensify calls for a transition to younger players. As India aims to clinch the series, all eyes will be on Rohit's bat in a match that could shape both the team's future and his Test career. (PC: ANI)