As we gather for our daily assembly, let's take a moment to catch up on the latest happenings from around the globe and right here at home. From significant developments in national politics and foreign policy to impactful international events, and exciting updates in the worlds of business and sports, here are your headlines for August 19, 2025.
National News
PM Modi Criticizes Opposition's Political Stance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the opposition of opportunism, claiming that those who once disregarded the Constitution are now championing it for political gain.
Election Commission Gives Rahul Gandhi Seven-Day Deadline
The Election Commission has issued a strict directive to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, demanding he submit a sworn affidavit with proof of his "vote theft" allegations within seven days or issue a public apology.
Devastating Cloudburst in Kishtwar Claims Over 60 Lives
A tragic cloudburst has struck the Kishtwar region, resulting in over 60 deaths and many more missing. Rescue operations are underway in the affected area, where a base camp for the Machail Mata Yatra was located.
India Endorses Dialogue to End Ukraine War After US-Russia Meeting
Following the recent summit between US and Russian Presidents, India has expressed its support for continued dialogue to resolve the Ukraine conflict, backing a diplomatic solution over military confrontation.
Chinese Foreign Minister Arrives for India Border Talks
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in India for a visit aimed at resuming crucial border talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, signaling a potential new phase in diplomatic relations.
International News
Trump to Sign Order on Mail-in Ballots and Voting Machines
US President Donald Trump has announced he will sign an executive order to eliminate mail-in ballots and voting machines ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, a move he believes will ensure election integrity.
Zelenskyy and European Leaders Head to Washington for Trump Meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Washington accompanied by a coalition of top European leaders to present a united front in his meeting with President Trump, following the inconclusive US-Russia talks on Ukraine.
Donald Trump Rules Out Crimea and NATO Membership for Ukraine
Ahead of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, Donald Trump has stated that Ukraine will not reclaim Crimea and must abandon its goal of joining NATO as part of any potential peace agreement with Russia.
Spain Deploys More Troops as Wildfires Rage, Europe Sends Aid
Spain has dispatched 500 more soldiers to help battle ongoing wildfires fueled by a prolonged heat wave. Other European countries are providing reinforcements, including planes and firefighting teams, to combat the blazes.
Sports News
Sarfaraz Khan Smashes Century, Sends Message to Selectors
In a stellar performance, Indian batsman Sarfaraz Khan scored 138 runs off 114 balls in a domestic match in Chennai, sending a strong statement to the national selectors who have dropped him from the squad.
Mohun Bagan Refuses to Release Players for National Camp
Mohun Bagan has declined to release its players for a national team camp, citing injury concerns as the primary reason for their decision.
Bangladesh Confident of Winning Asia Cup, Says Jaker Ali Anik
Bangladesh batter Jaker Ali Anik has stated that the team is heading into the Asia Cup with the ambition of becoming champions, fueled by recent T20I series victories.
Indian Woman Triple Jumper Suspended on Doping Charges
An Indian woman triple jumper has been provisionally suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after testing positive for a banned substance, a setback for the nation's athletic community.
Bangladesh to Replace Pakistan in Asia Cup Hockey
Bangladesh is set to replace Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup hockey tournament after the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) refused to travel to India, citing security concerns.
Rajeev Ram Wins Cincinnati Open
USA's Rajeev Ram has clinched the Cincinnati Open title in a hard-fought match, a victory he celebrated with a heartfelt tribute to his family and his former coach.
Business News
India's Unemployment Rate Falls to Three-Month Low
According to the latest government data, India's unemployment rate dropped to a three-month low in July, with a notable increase in female labor force participation.
Government Urges Exporters to Focus on Domestic Consumption
The Indian government is advising exporters to shift their focus towards the domestic market to mitigate the impact of rising global tariffs and trade disputes.
Eastern States to Face Stricter Fiscal Adjustments Amid GST Reform
Reports indicate that eastern Indian states may face sharper fiscal adjustments as the government prepares to rationalize GST rates, aiming to simplify the tax structure.
India Considers Easing FDI Rules for Solar Sector
India is reportedly contemplating easing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rules for its solar industry to attract more foreign capital, particularly from China, while simultaneously planning to tighten regulations on IT and data.
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