Monsoon fury across India, IMD says above normal rain likely in September

In a major step for wildlife conservation in Jammu and Kashmir, the Hangul Conservation Breeding Centre has become fully operational following the successful translocation of a male hangul. An official involved in the project detailed the meticulous process, which included habituating female hanguls before introducing the male from Dachi Gaon National Park. The official stated, 'Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to increase the population of this critically endangered species, that is, hongul, in J&K.' The centre, which was in a preparatory phase until 2023, is now equipped with water facilities, predator-proof cladding, and a comprehensive CCTV monitoring system to track the animals' behaviour and ensure their safety. The complex and sensitive operation to tranquilize and move the male hangul was completed successfully within an hour, marking a significant milestone in the long-term survival and recovery efforts for the hongul population.

In this special report, RD INDIA TODAY's Pramod Madhav visits the M.R. Palayam Elephant Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre near Trichy, Tamil Nadu, a sanctuary for eight female elephants rescued from captivity. The report highlights the comprehensive and scientific care provided to these pachyderms, some as old as 72. Madhav notes, 'they are gentle giants, they also deserve a good life and that's what they are here'. The facility focuses on replicating a natural environment, providing daily walks, showers, mud baths, and a carefully planned diet of up to 200 kg of food and 250 litres of water per elephant. The centre emphasizes herd living to reduce stress and fosters strong bonds between the animals. All activities and health metrics for each elephant are meticulously logged on a private website for official monitoring, ensuring these rescued animals live a dignified and well-cared-for life.

Anti-government protests continue in Iran for a 13th day in a row amid threats of a potential US intervention.

A political firestorm has erupted in West Bengal following Enforcement Directorate raids on the offices of election strategy firm IPAC, triggering a direct confrontation between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Centre. A senior BJP leader accused the Chief Minister of shaming democracy, stating, 'The crucial issue is will Mamata go and snatch the papers from the ED forcibly by misusing her police force'. He condemned her actions as 'atrocious behavior'. In response, the Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP of weaponizing central agencies ahead of elections. A TMC MP alleged the raids were an attempt to steal election strategies because the BJP's internal surveys show them losing ground. The conflict has moved from the streets of Kolkata and Delhi to the Calcutta High Court, marking a significant escalation in the pre-election face-off in the state.