India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1, built by Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace, is scheduled for its maiden launch from Sriharikota on July 18 at 11:30 am. The seven-storey launch vehicle will carry four Indian and international technology demonstration payloads, marking India’s private sector’s entry into the global orbital launch market. The mission will evaluate propulsion, stage separation, guidance, navigation, control and overall flight performance. Designed to carry satellites weighing up to 350 kg into Low Earth Orbit, Vikram-1 features an all-carbon composite structure, 3D-printed engines and solid-fuel boosters. The mission follows Skyroot’s successful Vikram-S suborbital launch in November 2022 and aims to establish regular commercial launch capability.

Iran has reportedly asked Yemen’s Houthi movement to prepare to block the Red Sea oil route if US-led strikes expand to target Iranian power plants, according to Reuters. The proposal was first discussed within Iran’s leadership before being conveyed to the Houthis, Tehran’s regional ally. The reported move comes as Iran remains blocked in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating hostilities with the United States. If implemented, Houthi involvement could significantly widen the conflict and further destabilise global energy supply routes by threatening another critical maritime chokepoint. The development adds to growing concerns over the expanding regional fallout from the nearly five-month-long US-Iran conflict in the Gulf. (PC: X)

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni described his players as “Indios” after their dramatic 2-1 FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over England, using the Spanish term to praise their resilience, fearlessness and competitive spirit. Scaloni clarified he meant the word in reference to the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, not citizens of India, saying his players grew up in tough environments where responsibility never weighed them down. He later acknowledged the term can carry negative historical connotations and admitted he may have made a mistake in using it. Scaloni also hailed Argentina’s fighting mentality, saying his side thrives under pressure and produced another remarkable comeback to reach the World Cup final.

One devotee died and around 100 others were injured after a stampede-like situation broke out during the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri on Thursday. The incident occurred on Bada Danda, where lakhs of devotees had gathered in light rain to witness the chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. A devotee who suffered severe breathing difficulties was taken to Puri District Headquarters Hospital but was declared dead. Around 50 injured devotees were admitted for treatment. Authorities are yet to determine the exact cause. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed grief and urged the state government to strengthen crowd management and devotee safety measures.

The United Nations has expressed grave concern after two boats carrying refugees were reportedly lost off Myanmar's coast, with hundreds feared dead. The vessels, believed to be transporting Rohingya refugees fleeing conflict and persecution, are suspected to have capsized during dangerous sea crossings. Rescue efforts remain challenging, and the exact number of casualties is still being verified. The UN urged regional governments to strengthen search-and-rescue operations and provide greater protection for vulnerable refugees undertaking perilous journeys. The suspected tragedy highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis facing the Rohingya and the risks many endure while seeking safety and a better future. (PC: AFP)

A huge surge of devotees gathered at the Singhadwara, the main entrance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, during the ongoing Rath Yatra celebrations, leading authorities to strengthen crowd-control arrangements. Police and temple officials regulated entry, deployed additional security personnel, and managed queues to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims. Thousands of worshippers waited for hours to offer prayers and witness the deities during the festival. Officials continuously monitored the situation, urging devotees to follow safety guidelines and cooperate with security measures. The large turnout highlighted the immense religious significance of the annual Rath Yatra festival in Odisha. (PC: X)

The Central Government has introduced stricter resignation and voluntary retirement rules for scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) after more than 100 personnel left the agency in recent years. Under the revised policy, scientists seeking voluntary retirement or resignation must obtain approval from the competent authority and serve a mandatory notice period, with requests subject to operational requirements. The move aims to retain experienced talent, protect critical national space programmes, and address concerns over the loss of skilled professionals to private companies and other organisations amid India's rapidly expanding space sector. (PC: X)

Tensions between Argentina and the United Kingdom have intensified after Argentina's World Cup semifinal victory over England reignited the long-running Falklands (Malvinas) sovereignty dispute. Following the match, Argentine players displayed a "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" banner, prompting Britain to urge FIFA to investigate the political display. The dispute deepened when Argentina accused a British Royal Navy warship of making an "illegal journey" into its territorial waters near the Falklands, while the UK rejected the allegation. The developments have further strained diplomatic ties, reviving decades-old tensions over the contested South Atlantic islands. (PC: AFP)

A giant billboard depicting US President Donald Trump lying in an open coffin has been installed in Tehran's Enghelab Square, carrying the message "We Will Kill Trump" in both Persian and English. The display reflects heightened tensions following the assassination of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and growing calls from Iranian hardliners for revenge. References to the deadly Minab school strike also appear on the billboard, linking it to broader anti-US sentiment. The provocative installation has intensified international concern over escalating rhetoric and the deteriorating relationship between Iran and the United States. (PC: X)

Argentina captain Lionel Messi dedicated his side's thrilling 2-1 FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over England to the late Diego Maradona, saying the football legend would have cherished the result. Argentina came from behind with late goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, with Messi providing crucial assists to secure a place in the final against Spain. Reflecting on the historic rivalry with England, Messi called the victory "a gift for Maradona" and said he believed Diego was "enjoying this immensely from up there." The emotional tribute added greater significance to Argentina's remarkable comeback and World Cup journey. (PC: X)