Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred Ghana’s highest civilian honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by President John Dramani Mahama during his historic visit—the first by an Indian PM in over 30 years. Recognised for his “distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership,” Modi accepted the award on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, dedicating it to India’s youth, cultural diversity, and the deep-rooted bonds with Ghana . He announced new initiatives: doubling ITEC and ICCR scholarships, setting up a Skill Development Centre, and supporting Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme. India also pledged enhanced cooperation across agriculture, healthcare, defence, digital payments (UPI), vaccine production, and aims to double bilateral trade in five years. (PC: DPR PMO)

US rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs has been found guilty of transporting people for prostitution, but not guilty of sex trafficking or other serious crimes. A New York court heard claims that he forced his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and others into sex acts. Cassie said she was abused and made to take part in “freak off” parties. Diddy’s lawyers said the sex was agreed to by all. He now faces up to 20 years in jail. Diddy thanked the jury after being cleared of the more serious charges. Cassie’s lawyer said her bravery helped expose the truth in the music industry. (PC: AP)

US President Donald Trump has intensified attacks on Indian-origin mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, calling him a "communist lunatic" and vowing to stop him from "destroying" New York City. Mamdani, who recently defeated Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, is now the front-runner in the mayoral race. Trump said he “held all the cards” and would make New York “hot and great” again. Mamdani hit back, accusing Trump of threatening him with arrest for opposing ICE. If elected in November, Mamdani will become the first South Asian mayor of a major US city. He is known for pro-Palestinian views and housing reform agenda. (PC: India Today)

At Wimbledon 2025, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz dominated the first set 6-1 against British qualifier Ollie Tarvet on Centre Court. Despite showing impressive speed and spirit, Tarvet missed five break-point chances, with Alcaraz responding with signature volleys. Meanwhile, Cameron Norrie thrilled home fans by defeating 12th seed Frances Tiafoe in four sets (4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-5) to reach the third round. “You just feel goose bumps,” Norrie said post-match. Sonay Kartal also made history as the first Briton to enter Round 3, while world number one Aryna Sabalenka advanced after beating Marie Bouzkova in straight sets. (PC: BBC)

Hamas signaled readiness to agree on a ceasefire but rejected parts of the U.S.-backed proposal unveiled by President Trump, insisting any deal must permanently end the Gaza war and include full Israeli withdrawal. Trump’s 60-day ceasefire plan—which Israel reportedly accepted—calls for phased hostage releases and a partial troop pullout . Hamas official Taher al-Nunu described the group as “ready and serious,” but negotiations remain stymied by conflicting conditions: Israel demands Hamas disarm and surrender, while Hamas demands a permanent cessation of hostilities . Mediated talks via Egypt and Qatar continue in Cairo amid rising humanitarian concerns in Gaza. (PC: Reuters)    

Nila Patel, a 56-Year-Old Indian-Origin Woman, Died In A UK Hospital After Suffering A Fatal Head Injury In An Assault On June 24 In Leicester. Leicestershire Police Said A Post-Mortem Confirmed The Cause Of Death. The Accused, 23-Year-Old Michael Chuwuemeka, Has Been Charged With Murder, Drug Offences, Dangerous Driving, And Assaulting A Police Officer. Patel’s Children, Jaidan And Danika, Paid Tribute To Their “Devoted” Mother, Calling Her A Warm, Selfless Woman Who Touched Many Lives. The Police Have Launched An Online Portal For Information. Patel’s Family Urged The Public To Honour Her Memory And Share Her Story. (PC: NDTV)

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, during his 90th birthday celebrations in Dharamshala, confirmed he will have a successor, ending speculation over the future of the 600-year-old institution. In a video message, he stated only the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the authority to appoint his successor. Reiterating that the successor must be born outside China, he dismissed Beijing’s claims of control over the process. China responded, asserting any reincarnation must be approved by its government. Thousands of followers and dignitaries, including actor Richard Gere, attended the event. Experts say China may attempt to impose its own Dalai Lama, likely to face rejection. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump launched a fierce attack on New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, calling him a "communist lunatic" and threatening to arrest him if he interferes with federal immigration operations. Trump vowed to cut federal funds to NYC if Mamdani "doesn’t do the right thing," accusing him of planning to "destroy New York." Mamdani, who could become NYC's first South Asian Muslim mayor, responded defiantly, saying Trump aims to "terrorise" those resisting ICE raids. Born in Uganda and a US citizen since 2018, Mamdani dismissed Trump’s threats as intimidation against outspoken immigrant communities. (PC: News18)

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, announced he will have a successor, affirming the continuation of the 600‑year‑old Dalai Lama institution. He entrusted his Gaden Phodrang Trust—established in 2015—with sole authority to identify and recognize his reincarnation, in consultation with senior lamas and Dharma protectors . Making the announcement ahead of his 90th birthday, he stated the next Dalai Lama may be born outside China, countering Beijing’s claim over the process . China responded by asserting that any recommenced reincarnation must follow its traditional “golden urn” lottery and gain central government approval. (PC: NDTV)

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced in absentia to six months in jail by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for contempt of court. The verdict stems from a leaked audio recording in which Hasina allegedly claimed she held a “license to kill” and made derogatory remarks about the tribunal’s authority. The ICT deemed her comments as a direct challenge to judicial integrity. This marks Hasina’s first conviction since being ousted amid mass protests in 2024. Co-accused Bulbul Shakil Akand was also sentenced to two months in jail. (PC: Reuters)