₹2000 Notes Worth ₹6,099 Crore Still Circulating: RBI
Despite being withdrawn from circulation in 2023, ₹2,000 denomination notes worth ₹6,099 crore remain unreturned, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The high-value notes were introduced in 2016 during demonetization and later phased out. RBI clarified that these notes are no longer legal tender and urged the public to deposit them. The remaining amount highlights public reluctance or logistical issues in returning the notes. RBI continues to run awareness campaigns and provide deposit options at designated banks to complete the process and ensure a fully digitized and lower-denomination currency ecosystem.
India Clinches First-Ever Test Victory at Edgbaston
India created cricketing history by winning its first-ever Test match at Edgbaston, defeating England in a thrilling five-day encounter. The historic win came after decades of attempts at the iconic Birmingham ground. Key performances from captain Rohit Sharma, bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja led the team to glory. This victory not only boosted India’s morale in the current series but also marked a new milestone in their overseas Test record. Celebrations erupted among fans, and cricket analysts hailed the win as a sign of India’s growing dominance in world cricket.
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons Elected Suriname’s First Female President
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons made history on July 7, 2025, by becoming Suriname’s first woman president. A veteran politician and former speaker of the National Assembly, Simons campaigned on platforms of gender equality, anti-corruption, and sustainable development. Her election marks a major step forward for women’s political representation in South America. World leaders welcomed her victory, while citizens celebrated a new era of inclusive governance. Simons promised to unite the ethnically diverse nation and tackle economic challenges through reforms, investments, and transparent governance. Her leadership is expected to reshape Suriname’s political landscape.
Himachal Pradesh Introduces Face ID for Ration Distribution
Himachal Pradesh has become the first Indian state to implement facial recognition technology for the Public Distribution System (PDS). Beneficiaries can now authenticate their identity using Face ID at fair price shops, ensuring smoother and fraud-free ration delivery. The system is expected to eliminate ghost beneficiaries and increase transparency. Piloted in select districts, the initiative will soon expand state-wide. Officials say it will reduce dependence on physical documents and thumb impressions, especially helping elderly and disabled citizens. Himachal’s move is being hailed as a digital milestone in welfare services.
Lando Norris Wins Rain-Hit British Grand Prix 2025
British driver Lando Norris secured a dramatic win at the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, which was heavily affected by rain. Driving for McLaren, Norris outpaced reigning champion Max Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in a race filled with slippery conditions, strategic pit stops, and late overtakes. The win marked Norris’s first home Grand Prix victory and brought cheers from local fans. His performance under pressure is being lauded as one of his finest, making him a serious contender in this year’s Formula 1 championship.
Mauna Loa Climate Observatory Faces Closure After 65 Years
The Mauna Loa Observatory, one of the world’s most critical climate monitoring stations in Hawaii, is facing a potential shutdown after 65 years due to funding constraints and maintenance issues. Known for its continuous measurement of atmospheric carbon dioxide, the station has provided vital data on global climate change since 1958. Scientists warn that losing this resource would be a major setback for climate research and policy decisions. The U.S. government and international agencies are being urged to intervene and secure the observatory’s operations through emergency funding or partnerships.