National Conference leader Omar Abdullah challenged the Centre over its push for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), urging the BJP-led government to introduce it in Parliament rather than implementing it in BJP-ruled states like Uttarakhand. He argued that if the government is serious about a nationwide UCC, it should debate and pass it through proper legislative process in Parliament, ensuring democratic discussion. Omar criticized the BJP's selective approach, calling it politically motivated rather than genuinely reformist. His remarks came amid growing opposition from regional and minority-focused parties against the UCC, which aims to replace personal religious laws governing marriage, divorce, and inheritance with a single uniform law for all citizens.

Seven former Australian cricket captains—including Ian Chappell, Greg Chappell, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Mark Taylor, Kim Hughes, and Michael Clarke—have jointly urged Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong to raise concerns over the detention of former Pakistan PM and cricket legend Imran Khan with Pakistani authorities. Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023, facing multiple charges critics call politically motivated. The ex-skippers cited their shared cricketing bonds and called for Khan's rights and fair treatment. They emphasized the importance of democratic values and human rights in Australia-Pakistan relations. The appeal highlights the intersection of sport and diplomacy, leveraging cricket's unique cultural significance in both nations to advocate for Khan's release or due legal process.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have reduced their holdings in 14 smallcap stocks after consistently buying them for two consecutive quarters. This reversal in strategy has significantly impacted these stocks, with share prices declining by up to 55%. The selloff reflects FIIs' cautious approach amid global uncertainties, rising interest rates, and shifting risk appetite. Key affected sectors include manufacturing, IT, and financials. Analysts suggest FIIs are reallocating funds to largecaps or safer assets due to valuation concerns and weak earnings. Retail investors are advised to exercise caution.

A powerful tornado struck Wanning city in China's Hainan province, causing significant destruction. The severe weather event toppled numerous trees, damaged buildings, and disrupted daily life for residents. Strong winds accompanied the tornado, uprooting vegetation and scattering debris across roads. Local authorities launched emergency response efforts, deploying rescue teams to clear blocked roads and assist affected residents. No immediate reports of casualties were confirmed, though property damage was extensive. Meteorological agencies had issued warnings as severe weather systems moved through the region.

Gurgaon biker Sia, who was hit in a hit-and-run incident, expressed frustration over delayed police action after the accused was finally arrested. Sia, a woman biker, was struck by a vehicle while riding in Gurgaon. Despite filing a complaint, she alleged police were slow to act, prompting public outrage on social media. The accused was eventually apprehended following mounting pressure. Sia criticized authorities for not taking swift action initially, highlighting concerns over road safety and negligent law enforcement response in such cases.

**बाजार में तिहरा दबाव हावी**

भारतीय शेयर बाजार पर तीन बड़े नकारात्मक कारक हावी हैं। पहला, क्रूड ऑयल की कीमतों में तेज उछाल से आयात बिल बढ़ने की चिंता है। दूसरा, बॉन्ड यील्ड में बढ़ोतरी से विदेशी निवेशक इक्विटी से पैसा निकाल रहे हैं। तीसरा, ब्याज दरें बढ़ने की आशंका से कंपनियों की उधारी लागत बढ़ेगी, जिससे मुनाफे पर असर पड़ेगा। विशेषज्ञों की सलाह है कि ट्रेडर्स इंट्राडे में शॉर्ट पोजीशन बनाएं लेकिन मुनाफा मिलते ही बुक कर लें, ओवरनाइट पोजीशन न रखें क्योंकि बाजार में अनिश्चितता बनी हुई है।

Scientists discovered two new frog species in Mizoram, India. One species, a bush frog, was remarkably found hiding in plain sight in easily accessible areas, having been previously overlooked due to its resemblance to known species. Researchers used molecular and morphological analyses to confirm both as distinct species. The discoveries highlight Mizoram's rich yet underexplored biodiversity in the Indo-Burma hotspot. These findings emphasize the need for continued surveys in northeastern India, where many species likely remain undocumented.

A woman sparked online debate by challenging the notion that earning ₹1 lakh per month is the "new normal" in India. She argued that social media creates a distorted reality by predominantly showcasing top earners, making high salaries seem common. In reality, most Indians earn far less, with average salaries significantly below this benchmark. She emphasized that platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram amplify success stories, creating unrealistic financial expectations. Her post went viral, resonating with many who feel pressured by such comparisons, urging people to recognize the gap between social media portrayals and actual income statistics across the country.

A major report warns the Hindu Kush Himalaya region is approaching a critical tipping point due to climate change. Rising temperatures are accelerating glacier melt, threatening water supply for nearly two billion people across Asia. Scientists predict up to 80% of glaciers could disappear by 2100 under high-emission scenarios. This would intensify flooding, droughts, and food insecurity in countries like India, Nepal, and China. Experts urge immediate global action to cut emissions and invest in climate adaptation to protect vulnerable mountain communities and downstream populations.

An Indian startup based in Noida is making waves in the aerospace and defense sector by developing drones and satellites domestically. Leveraging India's push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the company is designing and manufacturing advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and small satellites for defense, surveillance, and commercial applications. Operating from Noida's growing tech ecosystem, the startup benefits from government policies encouraging private players in space and defense. With rising demand for indigenous aerospace technology, the company aims to reduce India's dependence on imports while creating high-tech jobs locally.

A joint Nepal-India rescue team is nearing the final stage of operations to save workers trapped inside the Chilime Hydropower tunnel in Rasuwa district, Nepal. Workers became trapped after a tunnel collapse during construction. Nepal Army, armed police, and Indian disaster response teams have been working tirelessly using advanced drilling and manual digging techniques. The operation has faced challenges due to debris, limited oxygen, and narrow passages. Authorities remain hopeful of reaching survivors soon.

US 10-year Treasury bond yields surged past the critical 5% mark, raising alarm across global markets. This spike reflects persistent inflation fears, rising government debt, and expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates longer. Warren Buffett has famously called bonds a "terrible investment," arguing that fixed returns erode purchasing power during inflationary periods. He favors productive assets like equities over bonds, which he believes offer inadequate compensation for inflation risk and currency devaluation over time.

A NATO fighter jet intercepted and shot down a drone over Lithuanian airspace after it crossed from neighboring Belarus or Russia, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The incident followed Russia's renewed nuclear threats amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Lithuanian authorities confirmed the unmanned aerial vehicle was likely of Russian origin. NATO allies condemned the airspace violation, calling it reckless provocation. The alliance reaffirmed its commitment to defending every inch of NATO territory, deploying additional air defense assets to the Baltic region.

**Penny Stock Hits 5% Upper Circuit Below ₹10**

A penny stock trading under ₹10 has hit its 5% upper circuit limit, attracting significant investor attention. Penny stocks are low-priced, high-risk shares often prone to sharp price swings due to low liquidity and speculative trading. Hitting the upper circuit means the stock reached its maximum allowed price increase for the day, halting further buying. Investors should exercise extreme caution, as such stocks can be manipulated. Always verify fundamentals, promoter holdings, and financials before investing. SEBI advises against speculative bets on penny stocks. Do your due diligence before acting.

Dinesh Kumar Sharma has been sworn in as the new Lieutenant-Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He took the oath of office at a ceremony held in Port Blair. Sharma, a seasoned administrative figure, succeeds the previous Lieutenant-Governor and has been appointed by the President of India. In his new role, he will oversee the administration of the strategically important Union Territory in the Bay of Bengal. Key officials, dignitaries, and military personnel attended the swearing-in ceremony.