The Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, which killed 260 people, remains mired in controversy as investigators focus on why both fuel-control switches were moved to cut-off seconds after take-off. A cockpit voice recording captures one pilot questioning the action, but identities remain unclear. Experts warn against speculation until the final report, expected within a year. The AAIB and US NTSB have urged patience, rejecting premature media reports blaming crew error. Indian pilots’ unions condemned the speculation, calling for focus on maintenance, systems, and facts. The mystery deepens over whether it was human error or a technical fault. (PC: BBC)

An Air India flight from Hong Kong to Delhi suffered a tail fire incident after landing at IGI Airport on July 22. The airline confirmed the auxiliary power unit (APU) caught fire after the plane had parked and passengers were disembarking. Fortunately, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated without injury. The aircraft has been grounded for investigation, and the regulator has been notified. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) also confirmed a probe is underway. This comes after two other Air India incidents on Monday, raising fresh concerns over aviation safety and operational oversight in India. (PC: X)

A viral video showing employees welcoming a foreign client with a dance performance at an Indian office has sparked outrage online. Staff danced to Telugu and Bollywood songs, including a solo on Main Tera Boyfriend, as the client watched and later joined in. While some online users defended it as a team-building activity, others slammed it as “cringe,” “cheap,” and “unprofessional.” Critics argued such acts undermine India’s professional image globally. Others said these performances aim to boost morale and create memorable moments. The debate has reignited concerns over workplace culture, with some calling for more professionalism in corporate environments. 

Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reports 33 deaths, including 12 children, from malnutrition in the last 48 hours as humanitarian conditions worsen. The total death toll from malnutrition since 2023 now stands at 101, with 80 being children. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned Gaza’s “last lifelines” are collapsing under Israel’s continued offensive. The World Health Organization says Israel’s ground assault in central Gaza is hampering humanitarian operations. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the “grotesque” suffering. Israel claims its troops came under fire in Deir al-Balah and remains in contact with aid agencies operating in the region. (PC: BBC)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he is “wishing him good health” after Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned citing medical reasons. Dhankhar, 74, wrote to President Droupadi Murmu, stating he was stepping down “to prioritise health care.” His resignation was accepted, and an official notification is awaited. PM Modi praised Dhankhar’s contributions in a post on X, acknowledging his public service. Dhankhar’s tenure was supposed to continue till 2027. He had recently undergone angioplasty at AIIMS Delhi. As Rajya Sabha Chairman, he faced fierce opposition, including a failed impeachment attempt during his tenure in Parliament. (PC: News18)

A UK F-35B fighter jet, stranded at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram airport for 39 days due to technical issues, finally departed. The British High Commission confirmed the aircraft’s safe take-off after extensive repairs by UK defence engineers. The jet had made an emergency landing on June 14 following a malfunction during a sortie over the Indian Ocean. The British side expressed gratitude to Indian authorities for their support. Valued at $110 million, the F-35B is a top-tier stealth aircraft. The UK stressed its commitment to strengthening defence ties with India through continued cooperation and collaboration.

Portugal’s parliament has reclassified rape as a public crime, aligning the country with wider European legal standards. Under the new law, authorities can investigate and prosecute rape cases without requiring a formal complaint from the victim. The legislation, proposed by Bloco de Esquerda, LIVRE, and PAN, passed with support from the Social Democratic Party and parts of the Socialist Party, despite some internal abstentions. Witnesses can now report rape, triggering immediate investigations. Critics raised concerns over victims’ autonomy, but lawmakers said further discussions will refine legal details. The law amends Portugal’s Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Victim’s Statute. (PC: Representative)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United Kingdom and Maldives from July 23-26, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed. In London, Modi will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III, and unveil the much-awaited India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement announced on May 6. Discussions will cover trade, technology, defence, and climate. In the Maldives, Modi will attend the 60th Independence Day celebrations as Guest of Honour on July 26. Talks with President Mohamed Muizzu will focus on strengthening the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership established in 2024 to boost bilateral ties. (PC: X)

The U.S. is set to introduce a $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” for most non‑immigrant visa applicants under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed July 4, 2025. This fee, non‑waivable and charged annually with inflation adjustments, applies to tourists, students, temporary workers and exchange visitors but exempts those on the Visa Waiver Program. Travelers who meet all visa conditions can leave on time, no unauthorized work may get reimbursed after departure. U.S. Travel Association warns the fee could deter international visitors ahead of major events like the 2026 World Cup and ’28 Olympics. (PC: Mint & History.com)

The UK and 27 other nations have condemned Israel for the “inhumane killing” of Gaza civilians seeking aid, calling for an immediate end to the war. In a joint statement, they criticized Israel’s “dangerous” aid delivery model and highlighted over 800 deaths near aid sites. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Israel’s actions are harming its global standing. Gaza’s health ministry reported rising deaths from hunger and malnutrition, with hospitals running out of food. Israel rejected the criticism, blaming Hamas for obstructing aid. The UN warned Gaza’s humanitarian crisis is worsening, with 90,000 women and children needing urgent treatment. (PC: BBC)