Tribune

• The South Korean KOSPI index experienced a historic crash over two trading sessions, contributing to a broader $620 billion market wipeout. • This sudden decline has triggered significant volatility and renewed skepticism regarding the current valuations of technology companies. • The downturn is extending beyond equities, with growing tensions and instability appearing in AI-related bond markets.

• The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, on Wednesday to combat paper leaks and cheating in public exams. • The legislation proposes stricter punishments for those involved in unfair means to ensure the integrity of the examination process. • This move matters as it addresses growing concerns over systemic corruption and the disruption of competitive exams for millions of candidates.

• The Lok Sabha has passed ‘The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026’ via a voice vote to combat paper leaks. • The legislation introduces severe penalties for offenders, including up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines reaching Rs 50 lakh. • This measure aims to protect the integrity of public examinations and ensure fairness for millions of candidates facing systemic leakages.

• The Monsoon Session of Parliament has commenced with the potential introduction of the controversial Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, known as the "One Nation, One Election" (ONOE) Bill. • The proposal aims to synchronize elections, addressing concerns that frequent polling cycles lead to development programs being put on hold due to government restrictions during election periods. • Critics and observers highlight that current election windows typically last 35-40 days, though Lok Sabha polls are extended across multiple phases that could be compressed under the new system.

• UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the UN Security Council on Thursday, July 24, emphasizing the critical role of diplomacy in resolving global crises. • Guterres acknowledged that while diplomatic efforts may have failed to prevent current military confrontations and border tensions, they remain the most effective tool for ending them. • The remarks come amid rising global uncertainty and escalating tensions that threaten international peace and security.

• UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed a UN Security Council debate on Thursday, July 24, emphasizing the critical role of diplomacy in resolving global crises. • Guterres acknowledged that while diplomatic efforts may have failed to prevent current military confrontations and border tensions, they remain the most effective tool for ending them. • The remarks come amid rising global uncertainty and escalating military tensions that are disrupting international peace and security.

• BJP leader Bindal claimed that recent civic poll results in municipal corporations, urban local bodies, and panchayat elections reflect widespread public anger against the Congress government. • The BJP reportedly secured strong victories in the Municipal Corporations of Mandi, Dharamsala, and Solan, while Bindal accused Congress of misrepresenting its success by not fielding candidates in several areas. • Bindal criticized the government for discontinuing the Himcare health insurance scheme and delaying financial assistance for seriously ill patients.