Microsoft Fires Two Employees for Protesting Company's Ties to Israeli Military
Microsoft has terminated two employees who participated in a sit-in at the company president's office to protest the firm's contracts with Israel. The protest group, "No Azure for Apartheid," demanded Microsoft sever ties related to allegations that its Azure cloud software is used for surveillance of Palestinians. The company stated the workers were fired for "serious breaches of company policies." The incident follows other employee protests at Microsoft over its work with the Israeli military.
Argentina Eases Entry Rules for Indian Travellers with US Visas
Argentina has relaxed its entry requirements for Indian citizens, allowing those who hold a valid US tourist visa to enter the country without needing to apply for a separate Argentine visa. The move was announced by Argentina's Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, who hailed it as "wonderful news" that will boost tourism between the two nations. The policy change comes as India and Argentina are expanding cooperation in several areas, including agriculture and trade.
Hyderabad Sets Up 74 Artificial Ponds for Eco-Friendly Ganesh Idol Immersion
Ahead of the Ganesh festival, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has established 74 artificial ponds across the city to facilitate eco-friendly idol immersions. The initiative, which includes portable tanks, excavated ponds, and smaller "baby ponds," aims to decentralize immersion activities, reduce pollution in major lakes like Hussainsagar, and ensure smoother festival management. Each site will be equipped with cranes and sanitation staff to assist devotees and manage the process efficiently.
US Imposes 50% Total Tariff on Indian Goods Amid Dispute Over Russian Oil
The United States has imposed an additional 25% tariff on many Indian products, bringing the total levy to 50%. The new duty, which took effect August 27, is a punitive measure by the Trump administration in response to India's continued purchases of Russian crude oil. The move escalates trade tensions and is expected to impact $48.2 billion worth of Indian exports, including garments, gems, and chemicals, potentially leading to job losses and slower economic growth in affected sectors.
India Condemns Killing of Journalists in Gaza Airstrike
India's Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the killing of five journalists in an Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, Gaza, calling the incident "shocking and deeply regrettable." In a formal statement, New Delhi reiterated its long-standing position against the loss of civilian lives in conflict zones. The statement noted that Israeli authorities have reportedly launched an investigation into the attack, which has drawn widespread international concern from press freedom and humanitarian organizations.
India Nears $1 Billion Deal for US-Made GE Jet Engines for LCA Fighters
Amid escalating trade tensions, India is close to finalizing a deal worth approximately $1 billion with American firm GE to procure 113 GE-404 engines. These engines will power the next batch of 97 indigenous LCA Mark 1A Tejas fighter jets. This purchase is in addition to a previous order for 99 engines. The deal's progression, despite the new US tariffs on Indian goods, highlights the continued strategic and defense partnership between the two nations, which operates in parallel to economic disputes.
Historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan Submerged by Ravi River Floods
The historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, one of Sikhism's holiest sites, has been partially submerged by severe floodwaters from the Ravi river. Visuals show water entering the main complex, with reports of two to four feet of standing water throughout the premises. The sacred Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib has been safely moved to a higher floor. The flooding has also inundated nearby fields and villages, disrupting access to the site, which is currently closed to Indian pilgrims.
Red Alert Issued for Three Himachal Pradesh Districts Amid Torrential Rains
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the districts of Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi in Himachal Pradesh due to ongoing heavy rainfall. The severe weather has already caused multiple landslides, blocking key roads, including the highway connecting Mandi and Kullu. Authorities are on high alert as rising water levels and the risk of further landslips pose a significant threat to life and property in the vulnerable Himalayan state, with more heavy rain forecast.
Veteran Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from Indian Premier League
Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a 16-year career. The 38-year-old, who retired from international cricket last year, confirmed he will now explore playing in other T20 leagues globally. Ashwin finishes as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, with 187 wickets in 221 matches. He was instrumental in Chennai Super Kings' title victories in 2010 and 2011 and also played for several other franchises.
US Issues Formal Notice for 50% Tariffs on Indian Goods, Effective August 27
The U.S. has issued a formal notice to implement a 50% tariff on all Indian products, effective August 27. The move follows President Trump's executive order penalizing India for its significant purchases of Russian crude oil and military equipment amid the war in Ukraine. The steep tariffs threaten to severely impact Indian exports across multiple sectors. In response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India will withstand the economic pressure and continue to strengthen its self-reliant economy.
Landslide on Vaishno Devi Shrine Route Kills at Least 30 Pilgrims
At least 30 pilgrims were killed and 14 injured after a massive landslide struck the route to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. The tragedy occurred near Adhkwari following several days of relentless heavy rainfall that has battered the region. Rescue operations are underway to evacuate the stranded and search for those feared trapped under the debris. The pilgrimage to the holy shrine has been suspended until further notice as the situation remains critical.
Trump Fires Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, Sparking Legal and Economic Concerns
US President Donald Trump has fired Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, citing allegations of mortgage fraud. This unprecedented move challenges the long-standing independence of the US central bank and is expected to trigger a significant legal battle. The action could have profound ramifications for the global economy, as it represents a direct attempt by the executive branch to exert control over monetary policy. Cook's removal would also give Trump an opportunity to appoint a more politically aligned governor.
Trump Attempts to Fire Federal Reserve Governor, Sparking Legal Challenge
US President Donald Trump has attempted to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, an unprecedented move that challenges the central bank's political independence. Trump cited allegations of mortgage fraud as the reason for her removal. Cook has refused to resign, calling the action illegal and baseless, and has announced she will file a lawsuit to contest the firing. The confrontation raises significant legal questions and could have profound implications for the US and global economies by undermining the Fed's autonomy.
Enforcement Directorate Raids AAP Leader Saurabh Bharadwaj in Hospital Construction Probe
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted raids at 13 locations in Delhi-NCR, including the residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj. The searches are part of a money laundering investigation into alleged large-scale corruption, cost escalations, and fund misappropriation in hospital construction projects sanctioned by the Delhi government. The probe follows an FIR filed by the Delhi Police's Anti-Corruption Branch, intensifying the legal challenges faced by the AAP leadership.
Supreme Court Appoints Special Investigation Team to Probe Vantara Wildlife Centre
The Supreme Court has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by former apex court judge Jasti Chelameswar, to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the Vantara Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The SIT will investigate allegations of unlawful animal acquisition, mistreatment, and non-compliance with wildlife protection laws and international trade regulations. The probe follows petitions raising concerns about the facility's operations. Vantara has stated it will extend full cooperation to the investigation.