India has defended its imports of Russian oil after Donald Trump warned of possible trade tariffs. Responding to criticism, foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “There cannot be double standards. Western countries are also buying gas, uranium and other goods from Russia.” He added, “India buys oil to meet the needs of its people.” After the Ukraine war began, India became a major buyer of discounted Russian crude, despite Western sanctions. The US and EU continue limited trade with Moscow. Trade negotiations between India and the US are expected to resume in Delhi on August 25. (PC: X)

Rani Kapur, mother of late businessman Sunjay Kapur, has filed a criminal complaint in the UK, urging authorities to investigate her son’s death, which she claims involved “foul play”. Sunjay Kapur died under mysterious circumstances during a polo match in London on June 12. In her letter, Rani alleges forged documents, coercion, and financial conspiracy involving entities across the UK, India, and the US. She called for a forensic audit, CCTV retrieval, and coordination with global authorities. Amid a Rs 30,000-crore Sona Comstar family feud, Rani said, “I still don’t know what happened to my son. I need closure. (PC: X)

India strongly criticised the US and EU for "unjustified and unreasonable" targeting over its oil imports from Russia, following US President Donald Trump's threat to hike tariffs. The Ministry of External Affairs defended the imports as essential for securing affordable energy for Indian consumers, especially after Western countries diverted supplies toward Europe post-Ukraine conflict. India highlighted the West’s own continued trade with Russia, saying, “Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion.” New Delhi also recalled how the US had earlier encouraged India to buy Russian oil to stabilise global markets during the energy crisis.

US President Donald Trump on Monday warned of a tariff hike on India, accusing it of profiting from Russian oil during the Ukraine war. “India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then... selling it on the Open Market for big profits,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He added, “They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine.” Citing this, Trump said he would “substantially” raise the tariff India pays to the US. The remark has sparked concern over potential trade tensions between New Delhi and Washington. (PC: India Today)

Indian-American billionaire Vinod Khosla has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) could take over 80% of jobs in the next 3 to 5 years. Speaking on a podcast with Nikhil Kamath, Khosla said AI will change many fields, from finance to medicine. He advised young people to learn quickly and stay flexible. He believes the future will need generalists, not specialists. Khosla said services like education and healthcare could become nearly free with AI. He also said that people who learn to use AI will replace those who don’t. For him, the real power lies in how humans choose to use AI. (PC: khoslaventures.com)

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that India has halted Russian oil imports, Indian officials confirmed no change in policy. Trump called the alleged move a “good step” amid threats of punitive tariffs targeting nations buying Russian oil. However, India continues sourcing crude from Russia, citing long-term contracts and economic necessity. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized decisions are based on global market conditions and national interest. India, now one of Russia’s top oil customers, imported 1.75 million barrels per day from January to June. While Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports, further penalties remain possible. Officials insist India’s energy strategy supports price stability and complies with international norms. (PC: Reuters & TRT Global)

In a heartfelt diplomatic gesture, the Iranian Embassy in India extended warm Friendship Day wishes to the Indian government, celebrating centuries of cultural and civilizational ties. The message highlighted the enduring bond between the two nations, transcending dynasties, faiths, and rulers, and emphasized shared values in literature, language, philosophy, and art. Hours later, the Indian Embassy in Tehran reciprocated with equal warmth, affirming the millennia-old friendship and mutual respect between the peoples of India and Iran. Both embassies exchanged messages on social media, reinforcing the spirit of cooperation and historical connection. The exchange was widely appreciated as a symbol of enduring diplomacy and cultural affinity. (PC: BBC & News 18)

Stephen Miller, a top aide to Donald Trump, has accused India of financing Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to purchase oil from Moscow. Speaking on Fox News, Miller called India’s near-parity with China in Russian oil imports “astonishing” and “not acceptable.” The Trump administration recently imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened further penalties unless India halts its energy and arms trade with Russia. Despite mounting pressure, Indian officials reaffirmed their commitment to sourcing oil based on national interest and energy security. Miller acknowledged Trump’s “tremendous” relationship with Prime Minister Modi but emphasized that all diplomatic and financial options remain on the table to end the war. (PC: Mint & CNN)

Just 90 days after India’s Operation Sindoor dismantled terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistan has rebuilt over 15 terror camps and launchpads with direct support from its intelligence agency ISI. These camps, located in areas like Kel, Shardi, Athmuqam, and Chakothi, now use advanced tech including drones, radar camouflage, and satellite masking to evade Indian surveillance. Four launchpads along the International Border, including a drone center in Shakargarh, have also been reactivated. Camps now house fewer militants and include women and children as shields. Intelligence reports warn of renewed cross-border threats, with ISI allocating over PKR 100 crore to revive terror networks destroyed during India’s precision strikes. (PC: PBS & The Economic Times)

Sara Tendulkar, daughter of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, has been appointed brand ambassador for Tourism Australia’s $130 million “Come and Say G’day” campaign. Targeting Indian travelers, Sara will feature in TV, digital, and social media promotions showcasing Australia’s culture, nature, and adventure. The campaign launches first in China on August 7, then rolls out globally. Other ambassadors include Robert Irwin (US), Nigella Lawson (UK), Yosh Yu (China), and Abareru-kun (Japan), alongside mascot Ruby the Roo. This marks the second phase of the campaign, raising total investment to $255 million since 2022. Tourism Australia aims to boost international visits and economic growth through this star-powered initiative.