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Donald Trump Receives Massive Applause at RNC Despite Bandaged Ear


1. Donald Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention with a bandaged ear.
2. He received thunderous applause at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.
3. This was his first public appearance since surviving the assassination attempt.


Washington, D.C., July 16: Donald Trump, appearing at the Republican National Convention with a bandaged ear following an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally, received thunderous applause from the crowd at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.

This marked his first public appearance since the incident.

Accompanied by his VP pick JD Vance and family members, Trump entered Lee Greenwood’s ‘God Bless the USA’ playing in the background. Despite his injury, Trump enthusiastically clapped, pumped his fist, and gave thumbs-up gestures.

Among the attendees were House Speaker Mike Johnson, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson.

The crowd chanted “Fight, fight, fight,” echoing Trump’s defiant spirit captured moments after the assassination attempt. Cheers of “USA! USA!” and “We want Trump!” filled the venue.


Also Read: Manipur Security Forces Rescue Kidnapping Victim, Arrest Five KCP(N) Militants

Trump has secured the Republican candidacy for the upcoming election on November 5, with Vance as his running mate. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump praised Vance as the best choice for Vice President after carefully considering numerous candidates.

Meanwhile, the FBI is investigating the assassination attempt as potential domestic terrorism. Investigators are focusing on suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks, examining his laptop for clues after finding no clear motive on his cell phone.

Crooks purchased ammunition and a ladder from Allegheny Arms & Gun Works and Home Depot, respectively, on the day of the shooting.

He used the ladder to access a factory roof from where he fired upon Trump.

Manipur Security Forces Rescue Kidnapping Victim, Arrest Five KCP(N) Militants


1. Manipur Security Forces rescued a kidnapped individual and arrested five Kangleipak Communist Party members.
2. The operation took place in Khongjom Tekcham Makha.
3. Khongjom Police Station oversaw the operation.


Imphal, July 16: Manipur Security Forces successfully rescued a kidnapped individual and arrested five members of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (Nongdrenkhomba) faction.

The operation was conducted in Khongjom Tekcham Makha, under the jurisdiction of Khongjom Police Station.


Also Read: BJP’s Rajya Sabha Seats Drop to 86, NDA Falls Below Majority Mark

The arrested militants have been identified as Konsam Rohit Singh (23), Yanglem Bikash Meitei (24), Thangjam Chanba Singh (27), Moirangthem Anand Singh (37), and Keisham Nelson Singh (28).

During the operation, security forces recovered several items from the suspects, including four 9mm pistols with ten live rounds, eight additional live rounds of ammunition, one 12-bore live round, a four-wheeler vehicle, and seven mobile phones.

BJP’s Rajya Sabha Seats Drop to 86, NDA Falls Below Majority Mark


1. BJP’s Rajya Sabha strength reduced as four members’ terms ended on July 13.
2. Nominated by President Droupadi Murmu, they supported PM Modi’s government policies.
3. This marks a significant change in India’s upper-house political dynamics.


New Delhi, July 15: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) witnessed a decrease in its strength within the Rajya Sabha as four of its members completed their terms on July 13, marking a notable shift in the political landscape of India’s upper house of Parliament.

Sonal Mansingh, Mahesh Jethmalani, Rakesh Sinha, and Ram Shakal, who were nominated by President Droupadi Murmu based on the BJP’s recommendation, had been staunch supporters aligned with the policies and initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

Following their departure, the BJP’s representation in the Rajya Sabha has diminished to 86 seats. Concurrently, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, now commands a total of 101 seats.

However, this figure falls short of the majority mark of 113 seats required in the 245-member House to wield outright legislative influence.

The NDA strategizes to secure additional seats in key states such as Bihar, Maharashtra, Assam, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Tripura. This move is intended to bolster their numerical advantage over opposition parties, consolidating their position within the upper house of Parliament.

The recent vacancies have prompted discussions and anticipations regarding the realignment of political allegiances.

Newly nominated members are expected to align with the treasury benches, supporting the government’s legislative agenda.

While typically non-aligned in terms of party affiliation, nominated members historically lend their support to the ruling party’s policies.

Currently, the Rajya Sabha faces a significant gap with 19 vacant seats. The Congress party eyes opportunities to strengthen its position, particularly eyeing the lone seat in Telangana.


Also Read: Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma Unveils Grade III Exam Syllabus on Twitter

Conversely, the BJP anticipates securing vacant seats in Rajasthan and Haryana, reinforcing its foothold in these regions following recent electoral shifts.

Political dynamics are further complicated by impending assembly polls and potential defections among independent or regional party-affiliated MLAs. These factors could potentially influence the balance of power within the Rajya Sabha, particularly in states preparing for elections later in the year.

The Election Commission (EC) is yet to announce the schedule for filling the 11 vacancies resulting from the resignations of several members, most of whom transitioned to roles in the Lok Sabha following recent general elections.

Notably, four vacancies in Jammu and Kashmir highlight ongoing political transformations in the region since its reorganization as a Union Territory in 2019.

As the political landscape evolves, the upcoming months are expected to witness strategic maneuvers and alliances aimed at reshaping the composition of the Rajya Sabha.

The BJP and its allies, alongside opposition parties, will navigate these shifts to secure their legislative objectives and political influence in India’s upper house of Parliament.

Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma Unveils Grade III Exam Syllabus on Twitter


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled the Grade III exam syllabus on microblogging site X.
2. The SLRC’s October 30, 2023 advertisement detailed the exam structure for Class-III posts.
3. The syllabus includes subjects like Social Studies, General Knowledge, and Logical Reasoning across different educational levels.


Guwahati, July 15: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the detailed syllabus for the upcoming Grade III examination for Assam direct recruitment on the microblogging site X.

This follows the State Level Recruitment Commission’s (SLRC) advertisement dated October 30, 2023, which outlined the examination structure for Class-III posts.

The syllabus covers three educational levels: Bachelor’s Degree, Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC), and High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) for driver positions, each with a distinct pattern of questions and subjects:

A. Bachelor’s Degree Level Posts:

  • Social Studies: 30 questions
  • General Knowledge: 35 questions
  • Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability: 20 questions
  • General Mathematics: 30 questions
  • General English: 10 questions
  • Reading Comprehension and English Language: 25 questions

The test will last three hours, comprising 150 questions worth a total of 175 marks.

B. HSSLC Level Posts:

  • Social Studies: 30 questions
  • General Knowledge: 30 questions
  • Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability: 20 questions
  • General English: 35 questions
  • General Mathematics: 35 questions

The duration of this test is also three hours, with 150 questions totaling 150 marks.


Also Read: All About Magji Ladoo: The ‘Chappan Bhog’ Prasad from Puri’s Jagannath Temple, Recently Awarded a GI Tag

C. HSLC Level Posts (Driver):

  • Social Studies: 20 questions
  • General Knowledge: 30 questions
  • Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability: 20 questions
  • General English: 30 questions
  • General Mathematics: 30 questions
  • Road Transport: 20 questions

This test will also be three hours long, consisting of 150 questions worth 150 marks.

The SLRC stated that all question papers will feature multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with one correct answer per question. Negative marking will apply, deducting 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer to a one-mark question and 0.50 marks for a two-mark question.

The question papers will be available in Assamese, Bengali, English, Bodo, and Hindi. Examination dates and times will be announced later.

All About Magji Ladoo: The ‘Chappan Bhog’ Prasad from Puri’s Jagannath Temple, Recently Awarded a GI Tag


1. Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene are gaining recognition.
2. Foods like chhena poda and similipal kai chutney (red ant chutney) have made their mark.
3. Other unique Odia foods are still emerging from the shadows.


Bhubaneswar, July 15: Odisha, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene, is gradually gaining recognition for its unique foods and products.

While some, like chhena poda and similipal kai chutney (red ant chutney), have already made a mark, others are still emerging from the shadows.

Recently, the state’s panta bhat was in the news, though not for the best reasons, after being named one of the worst-rated Indian foods by Taste Atlas.

Among Odisha’s culinary treasures, Magji Ladoo holds a special place. This traditional sweet has recently been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, highlighting its significance in the state’s culinary legacy.

Food historian and chef Sadaf Hussain emphasizes its cultural and historical importance.

Origins of Magji Ladoo

The Magji Ladoo is believed to have originated in the Kalahandi district, created by the tribal community of Majhis known for their culinary expertise. Local legends trace its roots back to between 1300 and 1400 AD.


Also Read: AI Breakthrough Revolutionizes Pesticide Detection in the Indian Tea Industry

According to these tales, Sridhar Swami, a saint at the 8th-century Kapilas shrine, offered a sweet treat made from buffalo milk cheese to Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a renowned spiritual leader. This encounter led to the creation of Magji Ladoo, which quickly became a beloved treat among locals.

Significance of Magji Ladoo

Magji Ladoo is deeply woven into the fabric of Odia culture. It is a staple at festive occasions like Diwali, Durga Puja, and Sankranti, symbolizing prosperity and often being gifted during weddings.

Its most significant association is with the Puri Jagannath Temple, where it is part of the “chappan bhog,” the 56 food offerings presented to the deity, underscoring its cultural and spiritual importance.

Making of Magji Ladoo

The magic of Magji Ladoo lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Traditionally made with buffalo milk cheese, sugar, and cardamom, it embodies the essence of Odia cuisine.

The process involves boiling the cheese and sugar to create a thick syrup, adding crushed cardamom, and shaping the mixture into small balls. The buffalo milk, considered sacred in Odia culture, adds a unique richness to the sweet.

GI Tag Recognition

The recent GI tag award for Magji Ladoo is a significant acknowledgement of its unique heritage and production process. This recognition not only protects the authenticity of the sweet but also paves the way for its wider recognition.

As Odisha’s culinary scene continues to gain prominence, Magji Ladoo stands as a delicious ambassador, carrying forward the legacy of Odia flavors and traditions.

AI Breakthrough Revolutionizes Pesticide Detection in Indian Tea Industry


1. The Indian tea industry faces stringent FSSAI standards for pesticide levels, making compliance crucial.
2. TAn AI-based rapid screening platform is set to revolutionize pesticide detection in green tea leaves.
3. This advancement offers significant benefits for the Indian tea industry.


Guwahati, July 15: The Indian tea industry is grappling with stringent FSSAI standards for permissible levels of pesticides and chemicals, prompting heightened monitoring and testing by government agencies. Compliance has become a top priority.

A new AI-based rapid screening platform is set to revolutionize pesticide detection in green tea leaves, offering a significant advancement for the Indian tea industry.

In a pioneering collaboration, the Tea Research Association (TRA) Tocklai, Kolkata, and Arogyam Medisoft Solution Pvt Ltd, a deep-tech digital life sciences company, have completed the first phase of validating ACLIVIA for Tea. ACLIVIA is the brand name of the product developed by Arogyam Medisoft Solution Pvt Ltd.

“Pesticide residue testing of green leaf before production is key to making the entire tea supply chain compliant. ACLIVIA for tea is a first of its kind for the global tea industry,” said Joydeep Phukan, Secretary of TRA.

The ACLIVIA device, no bigger than a book and weighing just 500 grams, can rapidly detect pesticide residues and other contaminants in just 2 to 30 minutes.


Also Read: Lautaro Martinez’s Late Goal Secures Argentina’s Record 16th Copa America Title with 1-0 Win Over Colombia in Extra Time

It is portable, easy to use, and capable of transmitting data to a cloud-based server when connected to the internet.

Configured to screen for various pesticides, including Monocrotophos, Fipronil, Cypermethrin, Acephate, Imidacloprid, and Acetamiprid, ACLIVIA is a groundbreaking innovation for the global tea industry.

The analytical performance of ACLIVIA has been studied on water and green tea leaf for the rapid detection of Monocrotophos at TLabs, Tea Research Association, Kolkata.

The results were compared with LC-MS/GC-MS results, and the device successfully determined pesticide residue at 10 parts per billion.

The kit is now available for deployment at bought leaf factories, other manufacturing points, and mobile testing vans.

“Rapid detection of pesticide residue in tea at the green leaf stage is crucial for serving a safe cup of tea to consumers. ACLIVIA is a compact, user-friendly solution that will be invaluable in producing chemical-compliant teas,” said Atul Rastogi, CEO of Luxmi Tea Co.

The core biosensing technology was developed by an R&D group at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Kolkata and transferred to Arogyam Medisoft for commercialization.

C-DAC expressed satisfaction with the successful trials and acknowledged the support from the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) and the C-SPARK initiative of C-DAC.

“Other kits struggle to reach the regulatory limit for detection at 10 parts per billion, whereas this device can satisfactorily detect Monocrotophos up to 5 parts per billion in green tea leaves,” said Bappaditya Kanrar, a scientist at the Tea Research Association.

The cost of the device ranges from Rs 1.3 to 3.5 lakh based on the variant, from single-channel to multi-channel. Each analysis costs Rs 150.

“The launch of ACLIVIA marks a significant milestone in our commitment to enhancing food safety through innovative technology,” said Partha Chakraborty, Chief Scientific Officer of Arogyam Medisoft Solution.

“Our collaboration with TRA Tocklai, Luxmi Tea, and C-DAC has been instrumental in successfully validating ACLIVIA for Tea. We are proud to offer a solution that addresses the critical need for rapid pesticide residue detection and empowers tea growers and producers to safeguard their products and consumers effectively,” he added.

Lautaro Martinez’s Late Goal Secures Argentina’s Record 16th Copa America Title with 1-0 Win Over Colombia in Extra Time


1. Argentina secured their 16th Copa America title with a 1-0 victory over Colombia in extra time.
2. Lautaro Martinez’s 111th-minute goal made Argentina the most successful team in Copa America history.
3. The match took place at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, showcasing a thrilling showdown.


Miami, July 15: Argentina clinched their 16th Copa America title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Colombia in extra time at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.

Lautaro Martinez sealed the win with a goal in the 111th minute, securing Argentina’s place as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, surpassing Uruguay.

This victory also marks Argentina’s second consecutive Copa America title, alongside their 2022 World Cup triumph.

Captain Lionel Messi, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, possibly concluded his international career on a high note, having lifted three major trophies.

However, Messi had to be substituted due to a leg injury in the second half, leaving the pitch with mixed emotions.


Also Read: Deepinder Goyal, Zomato Founder, Enters Billionaire Club

Angel Di Maria, who announced his retirement from international football after the tournament, also bid farewell to the Argentine jersey.

The match itself was marred by a delayed start caused by crowd trouble, with ticketless fans causing chaos before kickoff.

Despite the chaotic scenes, the game saw both teams trading chances throughout regular time and extra time.

Inter Milan’s Martinez finally broke the deadlock with a superb strike past Colombia’s goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, securing Argentina’s historic victory amidst tense moments in the thrilling final.

Deepinder Goyal, Zomato Founder, Enters Billionaire Club


1. Zomato’s stock hit a record high of Rs 232 on the BSE, up 4% in a single day.
2. The surge pushed Zomato’s market cap above Rs 1.9 lakh crore.
3. Founder Deepinder Goyal’s net worth surpassed Rs 8,000 crore with his 4.24% stake in Zomato.


New Delhi, July 15: The stock of Zomato surged 4% to a lifetime high of Rs 232 on the BSE, marking a 300% increase since its low in July 2023.

This surge propelled Zomato’s market cap to over Rs 1.9 lakh crore, elevating Goyal’s net worth beyond Rs 8,000 crore. Goyal, owning 36.95 crore shares, holds a 4.24% stake in the company.

The rise is credited to Blinkit’s robust performance in quick commerce, outperforming competitors and poised for profitability sooner than expected.


Also Read: NH10 Closed: Landslide and Rainfall Disrupt Sikkim Route via Kalimpong

Zomato targets EBITDA break-even for Blinkit by Q1 fiscal 2025, bolstered by strong investor confidence in its food delivery business.

Analysts foresee Blinkit’s value exceeding Zomato’s core business, with a projected GOV growth of 53% CAGR from FY2024-27, aiming to surpass food delivery by FY29. Acquired in 2022 for $568 million, Blinkit has transformed into Zomato’s most valuable segment.

Deepinder Goyal, an IIT Delhi graduate, co-founded Zomato in 2011, pivoting from FoodieBay.com.

His vision and strategic investments have solidified Zomato as India’s food tech industry leader, achieving unicorn status in 2018.

NH10 Closed: Landslide and Rainfall Disrupt Sikkim Route via Kalimpong


1. NH10 vehicle movement halted by landslide and rain at Selfie Dhara viewpoint, Kalimpong, West Bengal.
2. Sikkim MP urges central government to address NH10 issues in Lok Sabha session.
3. Continuous rainfall and landslides disrupt traffic between West Bengal and Sikkim indefinitely.


Gangtok, July 15: Vehicle movement on NH10, connecting West Bengal with Sikkim, has been halted indefinitely due to ongoing restoration work following continuous rainfall and a landslide at the Selfie Dhara viewpoint in Kalimpong, West Bengal.

Traffic Police officer Jagdish commented, “The NH10 has been in bad condition for a few days now. Vehicular movement is stopped… The restoration work is underway. The railway JCB is also being used… It seems like the road would be open in 2-3 days…”

Earlier this month, Lok Sabha MP Indrahang Subba, representing the Sikkim Parliamentary Constituency, urged the central government during his speech in the Lok Sabha session to address the ‘typical’ issues and frequent disruptions on National Highway 10 (NH10) caused by incessant rainfall and landslides.

He emphasized the urgent need for a resolution to ensure smooth connectivity and alleviate the challenges faced by commuters. This marked the first demand for assistance regarding the monsoon situation in Sikkim raised by the Sikkim MP in the Lok Sabha session.


Also Read: NITI Aayog Report: Assam Leads Northeast in Sustainable Development Progress

Praising the Centre for developing Sikkim and its once narrow roads, Subba highlighted the importance of NH10, the only 2-lane highway in the state.

He urged for the intervention of a central agency, stating, “Following the disturbances, we have requested Prime Minister Modi to ask any central agency to intervene and look into the matter as there is no assistance from the Bengal government who have failed to maintain the road.”

Subba also asserted that Sikkim, a peaceful and beautiful state with significant tourism potential, faces typical monsoon issues, not only affecting Sikkim but the entire Himalayan region.

These issues, lasting 5-6 months each year, lead to landslides and road disturbances, affecting tourists and locals alike.

NITI Aayog Report: Assam Leads Northeast in Sustainable Development Progress


1. Assam topped the latest SDG India Index 2023-24 by NITI Aayog.
2. The state improved its score by 8 points since the 2020-21 edition.
3. Assam’s progress highlights its commitment to sustainable development.


New Delhi, July 15: Assam has emerged as a top performer in the latest SDG India Index 2023-24 released by NITI Aayog, improving its overall score by 8 points since the 2020-21 edition. This marks significant progress in sustainable development for the northeastern state.

Since 2018, Assam has consistently improved, increasing its score by 16 points and securing a place in the “Front Runner” category, which indicates a score between 65 and 99 on the SDG index. This reflects Assam’s commitment to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Manipur matched Assam’s progress, also improving by 8 points and joining the “Front Runner” category.

Other northeastern states showed varying degrees of improvement: Tripura advanced by 6 points, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim by 5 each, Mizoram by 4, Meghalaya by 3, and Nagaland by 2.


Also Read: By-election Results: INDIA Secures 6 Seats, Leads in 4; NDA Wins 1, Ahead in Another

While most northeastern states achieved “Front Runner” status, Meghalaya and Nagaland remain in the “Performer” category. However, Meghalaya achieved “Front Runner” status in the goal of Good Health and Well-Being, highlighting its progress in this area.

The NITI Aayog report categorizes states into four performance levels: achiever, front runner, performer, and aspirant. This classification helps track progress and encourage competition among states in achieving sustainable development targets.

Nationally, the SDG India Index 2023-24 reveals positive trends across all states and union territories. The country’s overall SDG score reached 71, significantly improving from 66 in 2020 to 21 and 57 in 2018. Substantial progress was noted in goals related to poverty elimination, decent work and economic growth, climate action, and life on land.

The index, measuring progress on 113 indicators across 16 SDGs, is crucial for fostering competitive and cooperative federalism among states.

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