India tightens foreign funding rules, US eases Iran sanctions, Messi shines at World Cup
The Indian government has amended rules governing foreign funding for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), requiring them to select purposes and areas of operation from a predefined list. The changes, notified by the Union Home Ministry on Monday, allow a range of faith-based activities but explicitly exclude proselytisation from several categories eligible for registration under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Additionally, associations with key functionaries who are foreign nationals, other than those of Indian origin, will “ordinarily not be considered” for registration or prior permission to receive foreign funds.
In other developments, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted counterparts from BRICS nations in New Delhi for a two-day meeting focusing on global security architecture. Discussions covered developments in West Asia and India-China ties. Doval met with officials from Iran, China, Brazil, and other BRICS members.
The United States Treasury Department has issued a 60-day waiver ending August 21, suspending sanctions related to the production, sale, delivery, and offloading of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products. The waiver also covers transactions involving previously sanctioned vessels, as the peace process in the region gains momentum.
At the FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina advanced to the knockout stage after Lionel Messi scored twice in a 2-0 victory over Austria, overcoming an early penalty miss. His brace set a new record in the tournament.
India and Israel discussed expanding defence cooperation during the visit of Major General (retd.) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defense. He met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and highlighted Israel’s commitment to enhancing bilateral defence ties under the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership, focusing on manufacturing, technology, and joint projects.
In domestic news, protesters from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continued a sit-in at Jantar Mantar for the third consecutive day, alleging examination irregularities and a paper leak in the NEET-UG exam. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke called for support from farmer unions and the public.
India’s core industrial sectors grew by just 0.5% in May 2026, the second-slowest pace in 21 months, official data showed. Five of eight sectors contracted, while growth in others slowed from previous months.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) dismissed as fake a video circulating on social media claiming the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, stating that the re-examination was held successfully.
