India's first domestically manufactured C-295 military transport aircraft has successfully completed its maiden test flight, marking a major milestone for the country's aerospace and defence manufacturing sector. Built at the Tata-Airbus facility in Gujarat, the aircraft is part of India's effort to boost indigenous defence production under the 'Make in India' initiative.   The C-295 will eventually replace the Indian Air Force's ageing Avro fleet and strengthen tactical airlift capabilities. A total of 56 aircraft are being procured, with 40 to be built in India. Defence officials said the successful flight is a significant step towards self-reliance in military aviation.  

A vessel carrying 14 Indian sailors was involved in an incident near Oman's Shinas Port, marking the third such maritime incident reported in the region within three days. The Indian Embassy in Muscat said it is closely monitoring the situation and is in touch with Omani authorities and the ship's management company.   The latest development comes amid growing security concerns along key Gulf shipping routes following recent attacks on commercial vessels. Officials have not reported any casualties among the Indian crew, and the cause of the incident is yet to be confirmed. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and gather more information. (PC: India Today)

US-based real estate technology company Opendoor has decided to shut down its India operations, affecting nearly 250 employees. CEO Kaz Nejatian said the company is relocating operational roles closer to its customer base in the United States as part of a business transformation strategy. He added that advances in technology and the use of AI-enabled teams have reduced the need for overseas operations. The company clarified that the decision was not linked to the performance of its Indian workforce and said affected employees would receive severance packages, outplacement support and other transition assistance. (PC: X)

The Trinamool Congress suffered another setback on Thursday as Rajya Sabha MP Prakash Chik Baraik resigned from the Upper House, becoming the third party MP to quit in four days. In his resignation letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, Baraik sought immediate acceptance of his resignation. He said the West Bengal Assembly election mandate favoured the BJP and that he was respecting the people's verdict. Earlier, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy and Sushmita Dev also resigned from the Rajya Sabha. Sources claim more Trinamool MPs could step down in the coming days. (PC: The Indian Express)

Three Indian sailors who went missing after a US strike on the oil tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman have been confirmed dead, according to Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The vessel was carrying 24 Indian crew members, of whom 21 were rescued after the attack. The incident has sparked concern over the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the conflict-hit Gulf region. India had earlier lodged a strong protest with the United States over the strike. The government said it is extending all possible support to the families of the deceased sailors.(PC: India Today)

For the first time in at least 26 years, no Indian company is among the top 10 constituents of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, a key global benchmark for investors. HDFC Bank and Reliance Industries have slipped to 11th and 12th positions, while India's overall weight in the index has fallen to a six-year low of 10.87%. Analysts say the shift reflects growing global preference for artificial intelligence and technology stocks. The decline could reduce passive foreign fund inflows, adding pressure on India's markets as rising crude oil prices and global uncertainty weigh on investor sentiment. (PC: ai)

At least 15 people, including 11 civilians and four security personnel, have been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, according to local authorities. The unrest began after activist group Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opposed the reservation of 12 assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees in the upcoming elections. Despite the group being banned under anti-terrorism laws, thousands of protesters continued their march towards Muzaffarabad. Security has been tightened across the region, with surveillance flights and roadblocks in place, while rights groups have raised concerns over arrests and the use of force. (PC: BBC)

Newly revealed court testimony shows that billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates alleged that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein attempted to use knowledge of Gates’ extramarital relationships to pressure and influence him. According to testimony presented in court proceedings, Epstein allegedly sought leverage over Gates after their meetings concerning philanthropy and financial matters. Gates stated that he rejected Epstein’s attempts and distanced himself from the financier. The disclosures have renewed public scrutiny of Epstein’s network of high-profile associates and the methods he allegedly used to cultivate influence among prominent business and political figures. (PC: Reuters)

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly launched 12 ballistic missiles at the Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan, targeting U.S. F-35, F-15, and F-16 fighter jets stationed there. The strike came in retaliation for recent U.S. attacks on Iranian military facilities. Jordanian air defenses reportedly intercepted several missiles, while neighboring Gulf nations increased security measures amid fears of further escalation. The attack has heightened concerns over a broader regional war, disrupted air traffic across parts of the Middle East, and renewed worries about global energy security and stability. (PC: Reuters)

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Kerala—especially Thiruvananthapuram—has transformed into a football carnival. Giant cutouts, colorful flags, murals, and fan rallies celebrating football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominate streets and neighborhoods. Localities such as Rajaji Nagar are witnessing intense yet festive fan rivalries among supporters of Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and France. Many fans view this tournament as a possible final World Cup for Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar, adding emotional significance. While celebrations showcase Kerala’s deep football culture, residents also highlight the need for better sports infrastructure to nurture local talent. (PC: The Hindu)