Former defence secretary and ex-governor of Chhattisgarh, Shekhar Dutt, passed away on Wednesday. He also served as a deputy national security advisor and was a decorated soldier, recognized for his contributions to India's defence and national security. The defence ministry honored his legacy, highlighting his service as a 1969-batch IAS officer and his gallantry during the 1971 India-Pakistan War, for which he received the Sena Medal while serving with the 218 Medium Regiment.

A federal judge has blocked President Trump's asylum ban at the US-Mexico border, ruling that he exceeded his authority by declaring illegal immigration an emergency. The judge's 128-page opinion stated that Trump's proclamation, which aimed to prevent migrants from seeking asylum, went beyond executive power limits. This ruling is a setback for Trump, who has focused on immigration enforcement. The ACLU challenged the ban, arguing it violated US law and international treaties. The judge has stayed the order for 14 days to allow for an appeal.

The Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage commenced in Kashmir with a convoy of 5,892 pilgrims, marked by chants and traditional hospitality. Despite recent terrorist threats, devotees showed immense faith, with heightened security measures in place. The pilgrimage runs from July 3 to August 9, with strict travel advisories for pilgrims and media. Among the first-day pilgrims were women, children, and sadhus, all determined to reach the sacred cave shrine. Officials emphasized the yatra's significance for communal harmony in Kashmir, while expressing hopes for the restoration of statehood.

A court settlement with the Department of Homeland Security has restored the SEVIS registration of 358 international students, primarily from India, retroactively to prevent gaps in their immigration status. The settlement ensures that their Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) dates are reset, and any unemployment days due to SEVIS termination are removed. Additionally, it protects against future negative impacts on immigration applications. The students were represented by several law firms, and the settlement is seen as a significant victory for their F-1 visa status.