The 2027 edition of the Pirelli Calendar pays homage to India, showcasing a stunning lineup of local talent. Initiated by renowned Norwegian photographer Sølve Sundsbø alongside the late Raghu Rai, the project has been lovingly completed by his daughter Avani Rai. This iteration embraces outdoor settings, featuring both celebrated icons and skilled local artisans, reflecting a profound evolution from sensual imagery to the celebration of cultural identity and diverse narratives.
The Bar Council of India has put a pause on NALSAR's enrollments for the 2026 law graduates. This decision comes in the wake of an alleged smear campaign against Chief Justice Surya Kant's presence at the convocation. The Council demands a comprehensive report from NALSAR within three days, requiring identification of those behind this campaign. The situation will be reviewed on August 19, 2026.
A notable evolution in Dalit politics is unfolding in Uttar Pradesh, marked by a decline in the Bahujan Samaj Party's dominance. The Bharatiya Janata Party and the Samajwadi Party are actively courting Dalit voters ahead of elections, and the Congress party is also working to regain its historic connections. Meanwhile, Chandrashekhar Azad is establishing a distinct political identity, foreshadowing a significant shift in the Dalit electoral landscape.
Nepal's foreign minister announced that the country might have misplaced the original Sugauli Treaty papers, which played a critical role in establishing its borders with British India after the Anglo-Nepalese War. This comes at a time when border disputes with India have intensified. The government plans to systematically assess numerous international agreements, seeking to amend or renew any that are no longer pertinent.
Parliament's Monsoon Session concluded with twelve bills passed by both houses. Lok Sabha productivity reached nineteen percent while Rajya Sabha recorded thirty-nine percent. Opposition parties repeatedly disrupted proceedings and avoided government-offered discussions. The Public Examinations Bill was the only legislation fully discussed in Lok Sabha. Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed disappointment with the quality of parliamentary debates.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament concluded with both houses adjourned sine die. Repeated disruptions and political confrontations marked the proceedings throughout the session. The Rajya Sabha passed the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill after skipping question hour. Opposition MPs continued protests in the Lok Sabha demanding statements from ministers. The session ended after weeks of political confrontation and frequent disruptions.
Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday met with the Governor to recommend a 10-day parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara on humanitarian grounds, citing the deteriorating health of the prisoner's mother.
Around 86,800 people are still affected by the floods in Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon and Sivasagar. Golaghat remains the worst-hit district, with more than 42,000 people affected. Nagaon has around 20,000 affected residents, while Sivasagar has about 15,000. The situation has nevertheless improved compared with Tuesday, when nearly 1.13 lakh people were affected across the four districts. Authorities are continuing relief operations in the affected areas.
The statement comes in the wake of a ransomware group reportedly publishing hundreds of files linked to the Kudankulam plant which are said to be highly sensitive.
In a recent social media post, the police urged residents to enjoy kite flying but stay away from banned Chinese manjha and plastic-coated strings, which can cause serious injuries to people and animals. “Dear Kuchu Puchu, Patang Udao but Say NO to Chinese Manjha, Samjhe?” the police wrote, giving its usual safety messaging a more playful, social media-friendly tone.
West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari has ordered action against those making offensive comments online. He has directed law enforcement to apprehend social media users who disparage historical icon Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Additionally, Adhikari has mandated that MLAs establish public service centers named for Netaji, each receiving thirty thousand rupees in monthly state assistance to ensure service delivery to their constituents.
