QUICKREADS

Rescued wild elephant released into Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve after rehabilitation
Wild elephant Tridev, rescued in Madhya Pradesh after herd conflict, was released into Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Fitted with a satellite radio collar, he was deemed healthy by an advisory committee and transported from Kanha Tiger Reserve for monitoring and potential herd integration.

Nepal unrest: Markets in border districts of UP deserted; locals anxious over safety of kin
Nepal's student-led protests have disrupted border districts in Uttar Pradesh, causing deserted markets, stranded trucks, and communication challenges. Authorities heightened border security, restricted movement, and set up helplines to manage the unrest's impact on cross-border communities.

Africa feeding 20 million more children with school meals, says World Food Programme
The World Food Programme reports that sub-Saharan Africa has increased school meal provisions for 20 million additional children in two years, totaling 87 million by 2024. This shift from foreign aid to local investment in education and health is notable amidst rising hunger. However, millions still lack access to meals, particularly in low-income countries.

Urban footprint in 8 cities doubles to 4,308 sq km over 30 years; Pune and Bengaluru lead in built-up area growth
Urban built-up areas in 8 major Indian cities doubled to 4,308 sq km over 30 years. Pune and Bengaluru led expansion, growing 332% and 186% respectively, driven by IT, infrastructure, and economic diversification.

Nishaanchi star Monika Panwar says there was barely a script on Anurag Kashyap's set: ‘I got greedy as an actor’
Monika Panwar discusses her challenging role in Anurag Kashyap's Nishaanchi, playing Manjari from her twenties to fifties. With minimal script and guidance, she embraced the experimental process, taking a bold leap in her acting career.

IMD issues yellow, orange alerts for southern states amid heavy rain
IMD issued yellow and orange alerts for southern states, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andaman and Nicobar islands, with varying intensity levels.

What Sushila Karki, Gen-Z choice to lead Nepal for now, said about her plans
Gen-Z protesters selected former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as Nepal's interim leader. She aims to hold elections within six months, address corruption, seek justice for protest victims, and establish a new political environment without traditional politicians.

Pradhan meets Abu Dhabi Education Dept head, discusses opening of more Indian curriculum-based schools in UAE
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met with UAE's Sara Musallam to discuss the establishment of more Indian curriculum schools to serve the Indian diaspora. During his visit, he highlighted the success of Atal Tinkering Labs in India and explored educational collaborations, including student exchanges. Pradhan also visited the IIT Delhi campus in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing its role in India-UAE knowledge partnership.

Facebook users to receive share of $725mn privacy settlement: Know how much you could get
Facebook users will receive payouts from a $725 million privacy settlement over data misuse. Around 17 million eligible claims will be distributed via various payment methods, with an average compensation of $30 per user.

Harry Potter set designer Stuart Craig dies at 83, JK Rowling calls him a ‘true visionary’
Stuart Craig, Oscar-winning production designer behind Harry Potter films, died at 83. J.K. Rowling praised his visionary work in creating magical sets. He designed Hogwarts and Diagon Alley, winning three Oscars and leaving an indelible mark on cinema.

Brewers vs Rangers: How Michael Helman became unlikely hero to close gap on AL West lead
Michael Helman's heroics propelled the Texas Rangers to a 5-4 win over the Brewers, extending their home winning streak and closing the gap in the AL West. The rookie's impressive performance included a two-run homer and key RBIs.

India-EU hold counter terror dialogue, exchange global threat assessments
India and EU held counter-terrorism dialogue in Brussels, condemning terrorist attacks and cross-border terrorism. They exchanged threat assessments, discussed cooperation in multilateral forums, and explored strategies to combat terrorism and online radicalization.

'Idhar mat dekho': Suryakumar Yadav warns Muhammad Waseem after UAE captain's cheeky attempt to gain advantage – Watch
Suryakumar Yadav won the toss against UAE, playfully telling captain Muhammad Waseem "don't look here" while flipping the coin. India chose to bowl first, breaking a 15-match toss losing streak, with a balanced team featuring Gill, Bumrah, and Pandya.
'Survived this? We'll get you next time': Israel's message for Hamas after Qatar strike
Israel launched an air strike in Doha targeting Hamas leaders, killing five members. The attack, described as unilateral by the US, aims to eliminate Hamas leadership. Israel warns of future strikes, while Qatar condemns the operation as state terrorism.

After Mathura, Yamuna receding in Agra
Yamuna water levels recede in Mathura and Agra, remaining above danger mark. Hema Malini visited affected areas, distributed relief, and served food at shelter homes. Flood situation easing due to reduced water discharge from barrages.