The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted a successful second experimental flight to demonstrate the Air Breathing Propulsion Technology on July 22, 2024. The propulsion systems were mounted on an RH-560 Sounding Rocket, launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The flight achieved satisfactory performance, including the successful ignition of the propulsion systems. Approximately 110 parameters were monitored to assess its performance. This data will aid in the further development of the technology. Prior to the mission, multiple ground tests were conducted at VSSC, LPSC, IPRC, and CSIR-NAL.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Union Budget 2024, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, as visionary and inclusive. He highlighted its potential to strengthen the middle class, improve education and skills development, and empower tribal, Dalit, and backward communities. Modi emphasized the budget's focus on manufacturing, infrastructure, and economic participation of women, small traders, and MSMEs. With strong plans to continue lifting individuals out of poverty, the budget aims to energize the aspirations of the neo-middle class and create unprecedented opportunities for the youth.

During a NEET-UG hearing, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud reprimanded senior advocate Mathews Nedumpara for interrupting another lawyer. Nedumpara claimed seniority, but the CJI warned him to respect the court's decorum. When Nedumpara refused to back down, the CJI threatened to call security to remove him. The advocate eventually left the courtroom. The incident highlighted the CJI's commitment to maintaining order and decorum in the court. The hearing continued without further disruption, ensuring a smooth proceeding. The CJI's firm stance asserted his authority and upheld the court's dignity.

Tennis player Andy Murray has announced his retirement from professional tennis. The 37-year-old Briton will compete in the Paris Olympics, marking the end of his career. Murray has won two Olympic gold medals in men's singles and a mixed doubles silver. He has struggled with injuries, recently undergoing surgery to remove a spinal cyst. Murray received an emotional farewell at Wimbledon after losing in the men's doubles. He will represent Great Britain in the Paris Olympics, closing out a career spanning over two decades. His final tournament is expected to be an emotional farewell.

In Budget 2024, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced significant changes in customs duties. The government is reducing duties on cancer medicines, mobile phones, gold, silver, and seafood, aiming to lower retail prices. Gold and silver duties will drop to 6%, potentially boosting demand and curbing smuggling. Conversely, customs duties on ammonium nitrate and non-biodegradable plastics will rise by 10% and 25%, respectively. These measures reflect the government's efforts to address public health and environmental concerns while impacting various sectors.

The UK is set for continued warm weather this week, with temperatures reaching up to 26°C on Wednesday, following the hottest day of the year at 31.9°C in London. Despite the warmth, rain and thunderstorms are anticipated as summer progresses. Early mornings in northern Scotland may see temperatures drop to single figures, while showers will return from the west, moving eastward. By Thursday, heavy rain is expected, with sporadic showers on Friday and Saturday. The Met Office predicts a changeable weather pattern for August, with drier conditions in the south and wetter spells in the north.

In the Union Budget 2024, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced revised tax slabs under the new tax regime, aimed at benefiting salaried individuals. The standard deduction was increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, saving taxpayers Rs 17,500 annually. New tax slabs include 0% tax on income up to Rs 3 lakh, 5% on Rs 3 lakh to Rs 7 lakh, and varying rates up to 30% for incomes above Rs 15 lakh. Additionally, deductions for NPS contributions were raised from 10% to 14%, and family pension deductions increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000.

The Indian rupee fell to a new low of 83.69 against the US dollar, down from 83.6275 before the Budget announcement. The decline came after the government proposed increasing capital gains tax, leading to a stock market drop. The exemption limit for certain financial assets will be raised to ₹1.25 lakh per year for middle and upper-middle-class individuals. The rupee's slide continues amidst global economic uncertainty. The previous low of 83.6775 was breached, marking a new record. The government's Budget moves aim to balance revenue and growth, but their impact on markets is being closely watched.

A Ukrainian drone strike on a ferry at Port Kavkaz in southern Russia has left one person dead and several others wounded. The ferry caught fire, but the blaze is under control with no risk of spreading. The attack occurred near the strategic Kerch bridge, connecting Russia to annexed Crimea. This is the second strike in the area in two months, following an oil terminal hit in May. Emergency services are on the scene, and authorities are investigating the incident. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

In a bid to boost employment, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a new scheme in the 2024 Budget. The government will contribute one-month's salary to the Provident Fund of all new employees across sectors. This move aims to benefit 210 lakh youths entering the workforce. The initiative comes after the BJP faced discontent over job opportunities in the general elections. The government hopes to address employment concerns with this scheme, providing financial support to new entrants in the job market. The move is expected to have a positive impact on youth employment.