More Today's Headlines
Axis Bank Q1 Net Profit Rises 22% on Higher NII and Lower Provisions; Peers Also Report Growth
Axis Bank reported a 22-23% year-on-year rise in Q1 FY27 standalone net profit to around Rs 7,114 crore, driven by an 8% increase in net interest income (NII) and a 44% decline in provisions. Advances grew 19%, led by a 38% rise in corporate loans, while net interest margin (NIM) compressed to 3.46%. Other income fell 7%, mainly due to lower trading income. Asset quality remained stable with gross NPAs at 1.28%. The bank's consolidated net profit was Rs 7,632 crore. Similar growth trends were observed in peer banks HDFC, ICICI, and IDBI, with HDFC posting a 5% profit rise, ICICI 16%, and IDBI 5%, amid steady asset quality and loan growth.
Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital After Hunger Strike; Delhi Police Conducts Planned Operation
Activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from the Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Hospital following a 20-day hunger strike, as per Delhi High Court orders and medical advice due to his deteriorating health. Delhi Police conducted a carefully planned early-morning operation involving plainclothes officers, white sheets to shield the transfer, and multiple security layers. Protesters and supporters alleged forceful removal and lack of transparency, while police maintained the move was necessary for medical care and urged peaceful vacating of the site. Wangchuk remains stable under medical supervision, with protests continuing amid heightened security and political debate.
72nd National Film Awards Announced: Article 370, Yami Gautam, Mammootty, Kartik Aaryan Win Top Honours
The 72nd National Film Awards, announced on July 18, 2026, recognized films certified in 2024. The Hindi political thriller Article 370 won Best Feature Film, Best Actress for Yami Gautam, and Best Music Direction. Mammootty (Bramayugam) and Kartik Aaryan (Chandu Champion) shared the Best Actor award. Tamil film Amaran won Best Direction, while Telugu film Kalki 2898 AD received Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Other notable winners included Srikanth as Best Hindi Film and Sanjay Mishra as Best Supporting Actor.



