India has strongly condemned the demolition of a 125-year-old historic gurdwara in Pakistan's Punjab province, describing it as a "despicable act" that reflects the continued neglect of minority religious heritage. The shrine, considered significant to the Sikh community, was reportedly razed during redevelopment work, sparking outrage among Sikh groups and heritage activists. India urged Pakistan to ensure the protection, preservation, and respectful maintenance of Sikh religious sites and other minority places of worship. The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of religious heritage in Pakistan, with calls for accountability and stronger measures to safeguard historically important sites. (PC: X)

Air India has reduced fuel surcharges on select long-haul international routes, including North America, Europe, the UK, and Australia, following a recent decline in global crude oil and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices. The airline stated that easing fuel costs have allowed it to lower the additional charges imposed on tickets, which were previously raised during periods of high oil prices and geopolitical disruptions. The reduction is expected to make international air travel more affordable, as fuel surcharges form a significant part of ticket prices. Industry reports suggest cuts of up to 39% on some routes, offering relief to passengers planning long-haul travel. Experts say this move could also improve travel demand during the peak international season. (PC: ANI)

Five people were killed and several others injured after an LPG tanker lost control and crashed into the Kokhraj Bypass Toll Plaza in Uttar Pradesh's Kaushambi district. CCTV footage showed the tanker striking a divider before smashing into the toll plaza, triggering a gas leak and a massive explosion. The fireball and thick smoke were visible from nearly two kilometres away. The tanker driver and a toll plaza employee died instantly, while three injured workers later succumbed to burn injuries. Firefighters and police quickly contained the blaze, and authorities have launched a technical investigation into the cause of the deadly accident.

A massive wave of Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, has killed at least 30 people and injured more than 150, making it one of the deadliest attacks on the city this year. Rescue teams continued searching through the rubble of collapsed residential buildings for survivors, while authorities declared a day of mourning. Ukrainian officials condemned the assault as a deliberate attack on civilians and renewed calls for stronger international support. The strikes caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure, underscoring the continuing intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war and its devastating humanitarian impact. (PC: AFP)

The United States and China are entering a new phase of their AI rivalry, with semiconductor restrictions, alleged technology theft, espionage concerns and fierce competition over advanced AI models driving geopolitical tensions. China's latest AI model, GLM-5.2, has drawn praise from Silicon Valley, highlighting how rapidly the technology gap is narrowing despite US export controls on advanced chips. Experts say Washington still leads in cutting-edge AI hardware and research, while Beijing is accelerating domestic innovation and reducing reliance on foreign technology. The escalating contest is increasingly shaping global trade, national security and the future balance of technological power. (PC: HT)

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash after VAR overturned Joško Gvardiol's 103rd-minute equaliser. Following a lengthy review using semi-automated offside technology and the ball's embedded sensor, officials ruled that a Croatian player in an offside position had interfered with play during the build-up, leading to the goal being disallowed. Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier equalised from the penalty spot before Gonçalo Ramos scored the winner. The controversial decision sparked protests from Croatia's players and fans, ending their World Cup campaign in heartbreaking fashion. (PC: Reuters)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit New Zealand on July 10, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in more than 40 years. The landmark trip is expected to strengthen India–New Zealand ties through discussions on trade, investment, education, technology, defence cooperation and regional security. Modi is also expected to engage with the Indian diaspora and explore ways to expand collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit reflects both nations' commitment to deepening strategic and economic relations amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges in the Asia-Pacific. (PC: X)

India and Japan have agreed to strengthen their energy partnership as escalating tensions in West Asia raise concerns over global oil and gas supplies. During high-level talks, both countries pledged closer cooperation on energy security, clean energy technologies, strategic reserves and resilient supply chains. The discussions focused on reducing vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions while expanding collaboration in renewable energy, hydrogen and advanced technologies. With both nations heavily dependent on imported energy, the renewed partnership aims to ensure stable supplies, diversify energy sources and reinforce their broader strategic relationship in the face of an increasingly uncertain global energy landscape. (PC: X)

Spain produced a commanding performance to defeat Austria 3–0 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, securing a place in the Round of 16. The Spanish side controlled possession, created numerous chances and showcased clinical finishing to outclass their opponents. Austria struggled to contain Spain's attacking movement and failed to convert limited opportunities. The convincing victory underlined Spain's status as one of the tournament favourites, with their balanced display in attack and defence drawing praise. Spain will now face Portugal in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash as they continue their quest for World Cup glory. (PC: AP)

    The Calcutta High Court dismissed a man's appeal challenging a Foreigner Tribunal ruling after finding that 16 documents submitted to prove his Indian citizenship were insufficient and unreliable. The court observed that the records failed to establish a valid link to his claimed Indian ancestry and did not satisfy the legal requirements for proving citizenship. Upholding the tribunal's decision, the High Court ruled that the petitioner had failed to discharge the burden of proof placed on individuals contesting their status. The judgment underscores the importance of credible documentary evidence in citizenship-related legal proceedings in India. (PC: NDTV)