Monsoon in Delhi, summer in London | Hindustan Times

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The freak summer of 1976 in London was talked about for years. Now it seems commonplace. Who knows heat waves in summer could be the new normal? (REUTERS)

Monsoon in Delhi, summer in London

Weather shapes perceptions and experiences. The author reflects on changing attitudes towards monsoons in Delhi and summers in London, noting how climate influences mood, lifestyle, and personal transformation across different geographical contexts.

He has a natural connect with the youth and has focussed on integrating more youngsters with the Sangh Parivar. (HT Archive)

Leader who presided over the rise of RSS

Mohan Bhagwat, RSS leader, celebrated on his 75th birthday, has transformed the organization through adaptability and commitment. Guided by principles of national unity and social harmony, he has led RSS through complex times, emphasizing youth engagement and societal development.

To define liberty, the Court had to confront its own past. And no case represented the betrayal of liberty more than ADM Jabalpur . (HT Archive)

How Puttaswamy exorcised the ghost of ADM Jabalpur

The Supreme Court's Puttaswamy judgment overturned the infamous ADM Jabalpur case, affirming privacy as a fundamental right. It reversed the Emergency-era ruling that had stripped citizens of liberty, marking a crucial moment in India's constitutional democracy.

The French will take to the streets and protest against any austerity measures, which Bayrou had suggested as part of the annual budget. (AFP)

In France, it is political crisis season again

French Premier Bayrou resigned after losing a confidence vote over austerity measures. President Macron appointed Sébastien Lecornu as new prime minister. Political crisis deepens amid economic challenges, potential street protests, and growing far-right influence, signaling potential systemic changes.

The SCO also provided India and China with a platform for direct dialogue, and both nations voiced their willingness to find common ground on bilateral issues despite notable differences. (AFP)

Onus on China to take SCO beyond symbolism

Prime Minister Modi at SCO summit urged combating terrorism, with China's support crucial. India seeks to leverage the platform for regional connectivity and strategic interests, while pushing for a more effective multilateral approach in Eurasia.

In a multi-layered air defence system, which Sudarshan Chakra is meant to be, even man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), such as the good old Iglas, will have a role (of engaging the low-flying drones at short range). (@rajnathsingh X)

Envisaging a framework for Sudarshan Chakra

PM Modi's Mission Sudarshan Chakra aims to develop a multi-layered air defense system by 2035, integrating legacy and modern weapon platforms, focusing on unmanned aerial systems, drone defense, and adaptable military capabilities.

The old-party and the luxurious lifestyle of their children and grandchildren have been under intense public scrutiny for years. (REUTERS)

Why the old regime in Nepal had to exit

A hit-and-run incident sparked massive Gen Z protests in Nepal, leading to violent clashes, 19 youth deaths, and the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Oli. The uprising targeted political elites, symbolically dismantling the old state apparatus and demanding generational change.

Travel to Maldives simplified for Indians with new resorts amid improved ties.

The Taste by Vir Sanghvi: Maldives welcomes Indian tourists back amid new luxury resort developments

It’s never been easier for Indians to go to the Maldives. A year ago, if you believed the hype, it was all over between Delhi and Male. A newly elected government had focused on an anti-India platform, and some ministers had made offensive anti-Indian remarks. It seemed to me then that this was a mere ripple in the long relationship between India and the Maldives and judging by its response, our foreign ministry took the same position and said very little in public.

We must stop treating labs as departmental property and start treating them as national infrastructure. (HT PHOTO)

India needs a new compact for government-owned labs

India needs a new approach to revive government-owned scientific labs. The Accreditation Catalyst Model proposes shared access, certification, and accountability, transforming idle infrastructure into productive testing facilities for startups, MSMEs, and researchers.

India needs to do what it takes to trigger domestic demand and get growth on a sustained above 7% a year mark. (AFP)

Tax rate cuts: Centre’s great growth gamble

The Indian government is cutting tax rates to stimulate economic growth, risking potential revenue loss. By reducing GST and personal income tax, they aim to boost consumption and trigger private investment, hoping increased economic activity will offset the fiscal strain.

Going forward, Beijing may find itself as a sole security guarantor to try and make sure that the Taliban and Pakistan do not disintegrate into chaos. (AP)

Chinese checkers with Pakistan and the Taliban

China's foreign minister visited Kabul for a trilateral dialogue, aiming to mediate tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban. Beijing seeks to manage regional security, economic interests, and counter-terrorism challenges while navigating complex diplomatic relationships.

Educate Girls founder Safeena Husain with girls at the Pragati Project in Udaipur.

Mind the Gap: In her words: Safeena Husain

Educate Girls, founded by Safeena Husain, works to keep girls in school across rural India. By mobilizing communities, they've helped two million girls, aiming to boost education, delay marriage, and increase potential income and national GDP.

The IMF pegged Georgia’s economic growth for the year 2025-26 at 6% — far less than the previous year. (Shutterstock)

Georgia’s balancing act in Russia’s neighbourhood

Georgia navigates a delicate geopolitical landscape, balancing between Russia and the West amid economic challenges. Citizens remain cautious about Russia's intentions, with mixed feelings about their government's approach, while struggling with unemployment and uncertain future prospects.

A study of past GST dispute found that the majority of disputes on classification and rate were in the food sector and automobile parts. (REUTERS)

What guides the new GST reforms exercise

Prime Minister Modi emphasizes GST reforms focusing on structural changes, rate rationalization, and taxpayer ease. The reforms aim to simplify tax slabs, reduce disputes, support MSMEs, and enhance economic inclusivity while prioritizing common people's interests.

Bhupen Hazarika was an intellectual at heart — curious, articulate, and driven by an insatiable desire to understand the world. (HT Archive)

Bhupen Hazarika: A voice for the people

Bhupen Hazarika, a legendary Assamese musician, transcended musical boundaries, championing social justice and unity. Awarded Bharat Ratna, he embodied cultural diversity, connecting people through powerful songs that celebrated humanity, roots, and shared aspirations across India.

l Black Butterflies by Priscilla Morris and the latest Robert Galbraith thriller.

Book Box | Himalayan floods, Sarajevo siege and the stories that anchor us

During Himalayan floods, the author finds solace in books like "Black Butterflies" and J.K. Rowling's thriller. She draws parallels between her challenging situation and the protagonist Zora's experiences during the Sarajevo siege, finding comfort and inspiration through reading.

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