1. NEET-UG Re-Test Ordered by Supreme Court Amid Paper Leak and Grace Marks Row
In a major development, the Supreme Court has ordered that 1,563 NEET-UG students who received grace marks must retake the exam on August 3, 2025. This decision comes after massive outrage across the country over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2025 examination. Reports had surfaced about paper leaks, poor invigilation, and unjust awarding of grace marks, which led to protests by students and parents nationwide. The court criticized the National Testing Agency (NTA) for compromising exam integrity and ordered it to offer the affected students a choice: appear for a re-test or retain their original score minus the grace marks. The NTA has been told to ensure transparency and robust systems in future exams. This case has reignited concerns about fairness in national-level competitive exams and the mental toll such controversies take on aspirants.
2. India Passes the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill in Lok Sabha
The Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2025 was passed in the Lok Sabha this week, marking a major step in India’s data privacy regulation. The bill gives citizens more control over how their personal data is collected, stored, and processed by companies. It introduces strict consent requirements, allowing users to withdraw permission anytime. It also requires organizations to delete data if it’s no longer necessary. However, there is criticism that the bill allows the government to bypass these protections in the name of national interest, which may reduce accountability. Despite concerns, the bill is being hailed as a much-needed measure in today’s digital age where data breaches, spam calls, and identity theft are rising. The bill will now go to the Rajya Sabha for approval before it becomes law. Businesses across India are preparing to revamp their data handling policies to comply with the upcoming rules.
3. Assam and Bihar Devastated by Monsoon Floods, Thousands Displaced
Heavy rains triggered devastating floods in Assam and Bihar, affecting over 15 lakh people across several districts. Rivers like the Brahmaputra, Kosi, and Gandak have crossed danger levels, submerging villages, roads, and farmlands. Rescue teams from the NDRF and local authorities are working day and night to evacuate people to relief camps. So far, over 30 deaths have been reported, with thousands displaced and homes destroyed. Waterborne diseases are rising, and food shortages have been reported in some areas. In Assam, Kaziranga National Park is also submerged, threatening wildlife. The Chief Ministers of both states have requested additional funds from the central government. Climate experts blame erratic monsoons and poor flood management systems. Citizens and volunteers are sharing SOS messages on social media to seek help for stranded people. Relief materials are being sent, but many villages remain unreachable due to damaged roads.
4. US Faces Record-Breaking Heatwave, Cities Cross 50°C
The United States is facing an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures reaching above 50°C in some southwestern states like Arizona, Nevada, and parts of California. Cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas are under red alert as hospitals report a spike in heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly and outdoor workers. Authorities have opened cooling centers and imposed work restrictions. Power grids are under pressure due to high demand for air conditioning, and several blackouts have been reported. Scientists have confirmed that this heatwave is intensified by climate change and the El Niño weather pattern. The U.S. National Weather Service warned that such extreme weather events may become more frequent and deadly. Environmental activists are urging stronger action on climate policy. Meanwhile, public services and delivery workers continue to work in dangerous heat conditions, raising concern about labor protections in such crises.
5. Countdown Begins for Paris 2024 Olympics: 1 Year to Go
The world is gearing up for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, set to begin exactly one year from now in July 2025. France has unveiled a floating Olympic stadium on the Seine River, showcasing its ambition to make the event not only grand but eco-friendly. Over 15,000 athletes from around the world are expected to compete in 329 events across 32 sports. Special focus is being given to security, transportation, and sustainability. Paris plans to cut carbon emissions by 50% compared to previous Olympics. India is planning to send its biggest-ever Olympic squad, with high hopes in sports like boxing, wrestling, shooting, and badminton. The Olympic torch will begin its relay from Marseille in May 2025. Ticket sales have opened, and tourism promotions are in full swing. This Olympics promises to blend French culture with modern innovation, especially in its unique public-space-based venues.
6. Sweden Joins NATO Amid Russia Tensions
In a historic move, Sweden officially joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) this week, becoming the alliance’s 32nd member. This ends Sweden’s longstanding policy of neutrality that it maintained for over 200 years. The final hurdle was Turkey, which had blocked Sweden’s entry, but lifted its objections after diplomatic talks. This expansion comes amid growing tensions between NATO and Russia, especially after the war in Ukraine. Russia has condemned Sweden’s move and threatened to increase military presence near its borders. For NATO, Sweden’s entry strengthens its northern defense and gives it greater access to the Arctic region. The U.S. and European allies welcomed the move, calling it a powerful message of unity. Sweden, in return, gains protection under NATO’s collective defense clause, which states that an attack on one member is an attack on all.
7. China’s Real Estate Crisis Deepens: Evergrande Ordered to Liquidate
China’s property sector crisis worsened as a Hong Kong court ordered the liquidation of Evergrande, one of the country’s biggest real estate developers. Once valued at over $300 billion, Evergrande is now bankrupt and unable to repay its massive debts. The court’s decision affects thousands of unfinished housing projects and millions of investors, including global firms. Many Chinese families who invested their life savings in these homes are protesting. This marks a significant moment in China’s economic slowdown. The government is now under pressure to stabilize the property sector without triggering more defaults. Analysts fear this could have a ripple effect across the global economy. China’s real estate sector contributes nearly 30% to its GDP, and any collapse could lead to long-term damage, including rising unemployment and reduced global investor confidence.
8. ISRO Launches GSAT-30R Satellite for Improved Connectivity
India’s space agency ISRO launched the GSAT-30R satellite successfully from Sriharikota. This satellite replaces the aging GSAT-30 and aims to boost India’s telecom, broadcasting, and emergency communication services. Equipped with advanced transponders, GSAT-30R will improve TV signals, internet coverage in rural areas, and connectivity during natural disasters. The satellite is expected to last over 15 years and is part of India’s broader effort to upgrade its digital infrastructure. PM Modi and ISRO Chairman S. Somanath congratulated the team for their continued excellence. ISRO is also preparing for upcoming missions like Gaganyaan (India’s first manned mission) and the next phase of Chandrayaan (Moon exploration).
9. UNESCO Releases Global AI Guidelines for Education
UNESCO unveiled a comprehensive global framework on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. The framework includes guidelines on ethical AI use, student privacy, digital equity, and preventing AI-generated misinformation. It emphasizes that AI tools should support — not replace — teachers. Countries are encouraged to train educators to responsibly integrate AI into classrooms. The framework also warns against over-reliance on AI for student assessments. This initiative comes at a time when generative AI tools like ChatGPT are being used widely in schools and colleges. India, the U.S., and EU nations are reviewing how to include these guidelines in their national education policies. The main goal is to ensure AI benefits learning without creating new inequalities or data risks.
10. World Nature Conservation Day (July 28): India Launches ‘Mission Aranya’
As the world gears up to celebrate World Nature Conservation Day on July 28, India announced Mission Aranya, a new program focused on creating urban forests, wildlife corridors, and reducing plastic waste in eco-sensitive zones. This year’s global theme is “Restore, Reconnect, and Rewild,” highlighting the urgent need to protect biodiversity and reverse environmental damage. Across the globe, conservationists are organizing clean-up drives, tree-planting events, and awareness campaigns. India aims to plant 10 crore trees under the new mission by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, scientists warn that rapid deforestation, species extinction, and pollution are reaching alarming levels. Citizens are being urged to reduce single-use plastics, conserve water, and protect natural habitats to ensure a sustainable future.
