Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, was one of three girls killed in a stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport on July 29. Her parents released the last photo taken of her at the event as hundreds gathered for her funeral at St Patrick's Catholic Church. The family expressed their grief and called for peace amidst far-right riots following misinformation about the attacker's identity. Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy also condemned the violence, urging rioters to reflect on the harm caused to grieving families.

The Indian men's hockey team secured their second consecutive Olympic bronze by defeating Spain 2-1 at the Paris Olympics 2024. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, who was the tournament’s top scorer with ten goals, the team showcased resilience and skill. However, with legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh retiring, India now faces a transition period as they prepare for the LA 2028 Olympics. Key players like Hardik Singh and Abhishek are expected to lead the future squad as India aims to change the color of their medal next time.

The Ministry of Education has released the NIRF Rankings 2024, with IIT Madras securing the top spot in both the overall and engineering categories. IISc Bengaluru was ranked as the top university, followed by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and the University of Delhi (DU). In the management category, IIM Ahmedabad led the rankings. This year, new categories, including skill universities and state-funded government universities, were introduced. Over 10,800 higher education institutions participated in the rankings, reflecting a significant increase from last year’s participation.

At the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony, Tom Cruise delivered a show-stopping performance by descending from the Stade de France roof on a wire. Dressed in a leather jacket, the Hollywood star descended while musician H.E.R. played on stage. The event marked a handover to Los Angeles 2028, featuring a pre-recorded segment of Cruise traveling through Paris and arriving at Hollywood. Cruise’s stunt included a dramatic motorbike exit, accompanied by live performances from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg. IOC President Thomas Bach praised the Paris Games as “sensational.”

London is set to experience its hottest day of 2024 with temperatures reaching up to 34C on Monday. The heatwave will also impact East Anglia and the home counties, driven by high pressure from Europe. However, northern regions, including Scotland and Northern Ireland, will face thunderstorms and heavy rain. A yellow heat health warning is in effect across the UK until Wednesday, advising people to stay hydrated and keep curtains closed during peak heat. Temperatures will drop to around 27C in London on Tuesday, with cooler weather expected by midweek.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed deep shock and condemnation over Israel's airstrike on Al-Taba'een School in Gaza City, which killed at least 100 and injured many others. The school, housing displaced Palestinians, was struck during dawn prayers. Lammy called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unrestricted aid access. Despite international appeals from Egypt, the US, and Qatar, Israel continues its offensive, which has resulted in nearly 39,800 Palestinian deaths since October. The International Court of Justice has accused Israel of genocide in Gaza.

The BJP criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's remarks on the Hindenburg Research report, calling them a “deceitful” attempt to destabilize India’s financial system. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan compared the report to "shady underarm bowling," asserting it undermines confidence in India’s stock market and SEBI. Gandhi had questioned the integrity of SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, suggesting a conflict of interest. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya labeled Gandhi’s actions as an effort to destroy India’s economic progress. SEBI and the Adani Group have denied the report’s allegations as baseless and misleading.

Doctors and post-graduate students at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have extended their strike for the fourth day following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor. In response, the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) of Delhi's AIIMS has outlined six key demands: a CBI investigation, strict action against the perpetrators, compensation for the victim's family, removal of RG Kar’s principal and security in-charge, assurance for enhanced protection under the Central Protection Act, and the establishment of a memorial in the victim’s name. The protests have caused significant disruptions in medical services nationwide.

The US has deployed the USS Georgia, a guided missile submarine, to the Middle East amid rising regional tensions. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group would also accelerate its arrival. This move is in response to recent assassinations of senior Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, with concerns about Iran's potential retaliation. The Pentagon aims to bolster defenses for Israel and address threats from both Iran and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza continue, with pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and international calls for resumed talks.

India's bid for medals at the Paris Olympics 2024 ended in disappointment as archery, badminton, and boxing teams fell short. Despite historic semi-final appearances, the archery team missed out on a medal, finishing fourth in the mixed team event. The badminton contingent returned empty-handed for the first time since 2008, with Lakshya Sen’s bronze medal match loss being a notable setback. Boxing, despite high hopes for Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain, also failed to secure any medals due to tough draws and challenging matches. This marks a significant letdown following India’s record-setting performance in Tokyo 2020.