The United States Central Command announced strikes against Iranian military targets, including air defence and communication sites, in retaliation for alleged attacks on commercial shipping and US personnel. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry claims these strikes caused over 50 civilian casualties at a wedding and vowed a firm response. Iran's state media also reported retaliatory ballistic missile and drone attacks on US bases in Jordan and Bahrain, claims which were partially corroborated by Kuwait and Jordan reporting intercepted drones and missiles.
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara announced that over 200 taluks are likely to be declared drought-affected after phased assessments. The state has convened a special legislative session to discuss the crisis, farmer assistance, and seek significant financial relief and loan waivers from the Union government, while also alleging a "step-motherly attitude" from the Centre regarding fund releases.
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning that the Makkah Defence Alliance, a newly formed pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, stands ready to activate its collective defence provisions in response to escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Prince William and Kate have launched a sports-led suicide prevention initiative, urging organisations across Britain to foster open conversations, recognise warning signs and make support accessible.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claims to have captured a US unmanned submersible near the Strait of Hormuz and launched ballistic missile strikes against a US airbase in Jordan and two US Navy destroyers. These actions are stated as retaliation for recent US attacks on Iranian oil tankers. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) had previously reported destroying Iranian crude oil carriers after IRGC missile attacks on US warships. The escalating tensions have led to regional air defence activations and warnings to tanker crews.
India is making a significant push to establish itself as a global semiconductor manufacturing hub, driven by strategic investments and policy support. The upcoming SEMICON India 2026 event will showcase the country's advancements and ambitions in this critical industry, which underpins virtually all modern electronic devices and has faced global supply chain vulnerabilities.
Pakistan, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia have signed a trilateral defence pact, agreeing to treat an attack on one as an attack on all. Analysts suggest this alliance could significantly diminish the United States' strategic influence in West Asia and elevate Pakistan's geopolitical standing, potentially acting as a deterrent in regional conflicts.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Trump administration rule that sought to cap the stays of foreign students, journalists, and exchange visitors, citing potential 'catastrophic' damage to the US economy and higher-education system.
The Lahore High Court dismissed Muhammad Rizwan's petition challenging notices from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) awaits the NCCIA's forensic report on mobile phones seized from Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq to decide on potential disciplinary action against the players.
A joint report by Dell Technologies and Zinnov reveals that despite high ambition, nearly 70% of India's Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are stuck at the pilot stage for AI adoption. Foundational gaps in data, infrastructure, and governance are identified as key bottlenecks preventing the scaling of AI initiatives into enterprise-wide production. The report highlights the need for significant reskilling of the workforce and robust foundations for industrialising AI responsibly.
Indian two-wheeler buyers are increasingly opting for feature-rich, higher-end variants and premium motorcycles, driven by technology, safety, and easier access to finance, according to TVS Motor Company. The company is also exploring alternative electric motor technologies to secure its supply chain amidst growing EV penetration.
Pro Ref chief Howard Webb confirmed that VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were stood down after 'tunnel vision' led to the incorrect awarding of Erling Haaland's goal in the Manchester derby, acknowledging the error to Manchester United.
The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.
New Portugal manager Jorge Jesus included 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo in his first squad for upcoming Nations League matches, emphasising that team selection will strictly depend on current performance.
Donald Trump has explicitly acknowledged that the US Constitution's 22nd Amendment prevents him from seeking a third presidential term in 2028, despite expressing a desire to run again and noting strong support from his base.
United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to extend his contract, leading the men's national team through the 2030 World Cup, following their last-16 finish at this year's finals.
American tennis player Iva Jovic defeated her close friend Alexandra Eala of the Philippines in a three-hour, three-set thriller at the U.S. Open. Jovic's victory secured her a spot in the fourth round, marking her best performance at the tournament to date.
The opposition has intensified its criticism of the government's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh allege the move is a result of US pressure, particularly from American card companies, and demand an immediate rollback, warning of increased costs for consumers.
Madhya Pradesh BJP MLA Usha Thakur has sparked controversy by claiming that 4.5 lakh girls elope with non-Hindu men during Garba celebrations annually, leading to demographic change. She advocated banning non-Hindus from Garba pandals, a stance supported by the VHP, which suggests Aadhaar checks to prevent "love jihad." The Congress has condemned her remarks, demanding an apology, and highlighted similar controversial statements from another BJP MLA.
'We desperately want India to send the army as the evacuation process needs to be escalated immediately.'
American tennis star Jessica Pegula defeated Sorana Cirstea in straight sets (6-3, 6-4) to advance to the U.S. Open quarter-finals. This victory keeps Pegula's hopes alive for her first major title, while Cirstea made her final Grand Slam appearance before retirement. Pegula will now compete for a spot in her third consecutive U.S. Open semi-final.
Xi brought in asymmetrical power play by stating that India should have 'strategic cognition' and 'strategic judgement made on the basis of the stage of development the two countries are at'. This is a very nuanced way of asserting China's coercive diplomatic posture and reflects Beijing's penchant to unleash border instability at will, restrict rare earth metal exports, exert pressure on India at global and regional orders, asserts China expert Srikanth Kondapalli.
Coal inventories at India's thermal power stations have fallen to 22.9 million tonnes, providing only a seven-day fuel cover and affecting 74 out of 190 plants, a situation last seen in October 2023.
Defending champions NorthEast United FC secured a resounding 6-0 victory over Bodoland FC in their opening Group F fixture of the 135th Durand Cup. Alaaeddine Ajaraie led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by goals from Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia, Redeem Tlang, and Antonio Moyano, showcasing a commanding performance.
Eighth seed Ben Shelton defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets at the US Open, advancing to the quarter-finals. He will now face defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, with Shelton expressing confidence in his game and acknowledging Alcaraz's impressive return from injury.
American Frances Tiafoe defeated former champion Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling three-set match at the U.S. Open, reaching the quarter-finals. Tiafoe, who had a poor head-to-head record against Medvedev, showcased his best form, employing strategic net play and powerful groundstrokes to secure a significant victory.
Coco Gauff staged a remarkable comeback at the US Open, saving two match points to defeat Mirra Andreeva 2-6 7-6(7) 6-2 and secure her spot in the semi-finals. The 2023 champion overcame a poor start and a challenging tiebreak to win, setting up a clash with second seed Elena Rybakina.
Ajit Agarkar has informed the BCCI he will not continue as chief selector, prompting the board to begin searching for his successor as his contract ends October 4.
The BRICS summit in New Delhi brings together leaders from major emerging economies to address global challenges like trade disputes, geopolitical upheavals, and the economic impact of conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. India, as chair, aims to position BRICS as an economic growth engine, focusing on the Global South's food, energy, and supply chain security. The summit also highlights the grouping's expansion and its growing influence in global governance.
An Indian-origin woman, Shalini Thakur, was shot dead in California by Rohit, an undocumented immigrant from India, who had allegedly stalked her for months. Rohit later died by suicide after a police standoff. Thakur had previously reported the stalking and obtained a restraining order.
Police in Jamui, Bihar, have arrested two main accused in the molestation of a minor girl, bringing the total arrests to five. The arrests followed an encounter where the accused were injured. The incident, captured in a viral video, has ignited a fierce political debate between the ruling NDA and opposition parties over law and order in the state.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that Iran will not succumb to "bullying" from the US and Israel, vowing to protect national interests amidst escalating West Asian hostilities. During his visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit, Pezeshkian also discussed strengthening bilateral ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and advocated for local currencies in BRICS trade, positioning Iran as a strategic energy and transport partner.
Pakistan summoned US Charge d'Affaires Natalie Baker to lodge a "strong demarche" following remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India. Pakistan's Foreign Office condemned Gor's characterisation, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory and that the US ambassador's statement contradicted the US's long-standing position and commitment to international law.
US President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at cracking down on 'birth tourism' and limiting eligibility for birthright citizenship, weeks after the Supreme Court rejected a similar directive.
The BCCI has significantly revised the pay structure for umpires and match referees after a decade, introducing new categories and substantially increasing per-day fees. A merit-based promotion and relegation system has also been implemented to ensure high standards in domestic cricket officiating. Additionally, the board addressed its stance on the National Sports Governance Act, updated age-fraud policies, and called for support for physically challenged cricketers.
'Nitishji as CM never supported the UCC and publicly expressed his strong reservations over UCC.'
Government sources state that Meta, due to its algorithmic amplification of content, can no longer be considered a "simple intermediary" but rather a "service provider," implying greater responsibility and potential loss of legal immunity. This shift comes as Meta commits to directly reporting child abuse content to Indian law enforcement, amidst increasing government scrutiny over harmful online content and algorithmic bias.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's planned meet-and-greet sessions with the Tamil diaspora in London have been cancelled due to public safety concerns and directives from the Metropolitan Police. The TVK party appealed to supporters to refrain from gathering, as CM Vijay is in the UK to attract investments, having already secured agreements worth Rs 12,300 crore.
American 10th seed Amanda Anisimova was defeated by Austrian Anastasia Potapova in the third round of the U.S. Open. Potapova secured a 6-2, 7-5 victory, reaching the fourth round for the first time, while Anisimova struggled with unforced errors and failed to replicate her previous year's success.
BRICS members have expressed 'serious concerns' over the unilateral imposition of trade and finance-related measures, including higher tariffs and non-tariff barriers, stating these actions distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO rules. The grouping also highlighted elevated risks to the global economic outlook due to geopolitical tensions, trade fragmentation, and protectionism.
