Bhavani Reddy from Kondakaram, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, stunned the world by clinching three gold medals at the 2025 Asian Youth & Junior Weightlifting Championships. Despite growing up in poverty, with her father working as a daily-wage mason, Bhavani’s grit and discipline led her to international glory. Trained by coach Gadipalli Anand, she lifted a total of 159 kg in the 48 kg category. Her journey from a remote village to the global stage is a testament to perseverance. Her father’s unwavering support and Anand’s mentorship were pivotal. Bhavani’s triumph has sparked national pride and inspired countless youth across India. (PC: X)

An Indian student’s F-1 visa to the U.S. was temporarily refused after failing to disclose their Reddit account on the DS-160 form. Despite the account being public and containing no offensive content, the visa officer couldn’t access it during screening and issued a 221(g) slip, requesting all social media handles be made public. This incident follows a June 23 directive from the U.S. Embassy mandating F, M, and J visa applicants to adjust privacy settings for thorough vetting. The State Department emphasized that visa screening continues post-issuance and can lead to revocation. The case highlights growing scrutiny of digital footprints in U.S. immigration processes. (PC: Live Science & Go Kite Tours)

On July 17, India successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. Conducted under the Strategic Forces Command, the launches validated all operational and technical parameters. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement as a boost to India’s strategic deterrence. The tests followed the July 16 trial of the Akash Prime missile in Ladakh, which intercepted two high-speed aerial targets at altitudes above 4,500 metres. Akash Prime features an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker and is tailored for high-altitude warfare. These back-to-back successes reinforce India’s air defence capabilities and readiness in forward regions. (PC: ANI & Business Today)

Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala received an honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford, coinciding with Bradford’s designation as the UK City of Culture 2025. Sharing her gratitude on Instagram, Koirala emphasized her unconventional journey of learning through life, resilience, and service. She expressed pride in receiving the honor alongside Burberry’s Creative Director Daniel Lee. The actress also paid tribute to her late grandmother, Sushila Koirala, calling her the “first teacher” who shaped her values. Koirala’s recent acclaimed performance in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar further highlights her enduring impact. She encouraged graduates to keep growing and shining, celebrating the milestone with heartfelt reflection and pride. (PC: Instagram)

Milind Soman pays tribute to Fauja Singh, the legendary 114-year-old marathoner known as the “Turbaned Tornado,” who passed away on July 14 after being hit by a reckless driver near his home. Soman reflects on Singh’s extraordinary journey, starting marathons at 89, running to heal from personal loss, and inspiring millions with his discipline and spirit. His death highlights India’s unsafe roads and the urgent need for pedestrian safety. Singh’s legacy is not just athletic but deeply human, reminding us that running is a form of meditation and resilience. His life calls for action: safer streets, stricter laws, and respect for every life. (PC: The Mirror & The Indian Express)

A massive fire broke out early Friday morning at a private iron factory in Sembakkam, Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the site, prompting immediate deployment of fire and rescue personnel. The blaze triggered panic in the surrounding area, though no casualties have been reported yet. Rescue operations are currently underway, with authorities working to contain the fire and assess the damage. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and further details are awaited. Officials have urged the public to avoid the vicinity while emergency teams continue their efforts. The incident has raised concerns over industrial safety protocols in the region.

Former India coach Gary Kirsten has advised rising star Shubman Gill to adopt key captaincy qualities from MS Dhoni to become a great leader for India. While Gill has shown promise with the bat and leadership skills in recent matches, Kirsten emphasized the importance of man-management, calm decision-making, and maintaining composure under pressure—hallmarks of Dhoni's leadership. Kirsten noted that technical skills and cricketing strategy are only part of the equation; managing team dynamics is crucial. Gill’s aggressive style was highlighted, suggesting he needs balance and maturity to reach the next level as India's captain. (PC: PTI)  

Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of misusing the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to systematically target senior Congress leaders. Speaking to the media on July 18, Venugopal alleged that the Modi–Shah duo seems to have assigned the ED a "monthly assignment" against opposition figures. His comments followed recent ED raids, including on Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, linked to an alleged liquor scam. Congress leaders condemned the actions as political harassment, demanding accountability and warning against the misuse of investigative agencies. (PC: ANI)  

  In the early hours of July 18, over 20 Delhi schools—including Abhinav Public School (Rohini Sector 3) and Richmondd Global School (Paschim Vihar)—received threatening emails claiming bombs were planted on their premises. Both Delhi Police and Fire Service teams swiftly evacuated students and staff, conducting extensive searches; no explosives were found . This marks the fourth wave of such threats this week, following previous alerts to St. Thomas School, St. Stephen's College, Navy and CRPF schools, and others between July 14–16 . Authorities are investigating, treating these as potential hoaxes while heightening security protocols across educational institutions. (PC: Facebook)  

Kamana Shukla from Lucknow became the first Indian woman to receive a live call from the International Space Station (ISS). Her husband, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, recently completed an 18-day mission aboard the ISS as part of India's growing space collaboration efforts. The couple’s emotional moment marks a personal milestone and national pride. Kamana, a dentist by profession, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting their journey from school friends to global recognition. Shubhanshu’s safe return and family reunion in Houston added to the emotional significance of this unique achievement for India. (PC: Zee News)