German ex-spy chief arrested for suspected espionage, treason

FRANCE24 October 7, 2026
German ex-spy chief arrested for suspected espionage, treason
German ex-spy chief arrested for suspected espionage, treason
A former German spy chief was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of espionage and treason, an embarrassing case at a time when the country is seeking to broaden the powers of its intelligence agencies. August Hanning, who ran Germany's BND foreign intelligence agency from 1998 to 2005, is accused of espionage, treason and working for foreign intelligence services, federal prosecutors said. FRANCE 24's Nick Holdsworth reports from Berlin.

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Police make seventh arrest over UK airbase incident
Police make seventh arrest over UK airbase incident

A seventh man was arrested Tuesday over a major incident last month at a British military airbase used by the United States to launch strikes on Iran, police said. The arrest came a day after President Donald Trump said the United States had withdrawn all B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford because of "threats" he believed were linked to Tehran. A 22-year-old British male was arrested in London "on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts", Britain's Counter-Terrorism Policing network said in a statement. Six men in their 20s have already been arrested and released on bail after three suspicious vans were stopped near the base in southwest England on September 27. FRANCE 24's Bénédicte Paviot reports from London.

FRANCE24 October 7, 2026
Calls to block social media platforms for minors in France amid school protests
Calls to block social media platforms for minors in France amid school protests

One factor accelerating these student protest is social media, and its being boosted even more by artificial intelligence. Some French mayors have even called for social media platforms to be temporarily blocked for minors. Our colleauges at France 2 took a look at the impact

FRANCE24 October 7, 2026
German ex-spy chief arrested for suspected espionage, treason
German ex-spy chief arrested for suspected espionage, treason

A former German spy chief was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of espionage and treason, an embarrassing case at a time when the country is seeking to broaden the powers of its intelligence agencies. August Hanning, who ran Germany's BND foreign intelligence agency from 1998 to 2005, is accused of espionage, treason and working for foreign intelligence services, federal prosecutors said. FRANCE 24's Nick Holdsworth reports from Berlin.

FRANCE24 October 7, 2026
'We're fed up': Paris students rise up in a movement that shows no sign of slowing
'We're fed up': Paris students rise up in a movement that shows no sign of slowing

Hundreds of thousands of students and their supporters took part in nationwide protests across France on Tuesday after weeks of student barricades protesting school conditions. 

Paul MILLAR October 7, 2026
Students, unions and teachers in mass movement to demand better learning conditions
Students, unions and teachers in mass movement to demand better learning conditions

A quarter of a million demonstrators took to the streets across France on Tuesday as unions and teachers joined high school students demanding better learning conditions in protests that later descended into sporadic clashes with security forces. A French policeman was on Tuesday charged with violence over the firing of a tear gas grenade last week at close range at a 14-year-old student during the high school protests that have shaken the country, the prosecutor said. Reporting from central Paris, FRANCE 24's Claire Paccalin says the protesters are adamant that "this is not it, this movement will continue, we want concrete actions from the government".

FRANCE24 October 7, 2026
France erupts overs schools: Why the violence surrounding surprise movement?
France erupts overs schools: Why the violence surrounding surprise movement?

It’s a protest movement that a broke, lame-duck French government did not see coming. Civil servants this Tuesday joining high schoolers now in their third week of picketing over long-deteriorating classroom conditions. The usual recipe for wearing down movements in France has recently been to match eventual violence with a heavy hand, the escalation turning the silent majority against the protesters as was the case with the pre-Covid Yellow Vests movement. 

François PICARD October 7, 2026
'Colossal failure: Death penalty system in America is a broken process from start to finish'
'Colossal failure: Death penalty system in America is a broken process from start to finish'

Jean-Emile Jammine is pleased to welcome Reed Brody, international human rights lawyer and former New York assistant attorney general. According to Brody, the botched execution of Christa Pike reflects a much larger problem: the relationship between capital punishment, institutional failure, due process, and human dignity. The technical failure of lethal injection exposes weaknesses throughout the legal architecture surrounding the death penalty, from the quality and adequacy of defense representation to the profound disparities between jurisdictions and the difficulties states face in administering executions. 

FRANCE24 October 6, 2026
Brazil 'has moved to the right progressively over the last two decades', expert says
Brazil 'has moved to the right progressively over the last two decades', expert says

Senator Flavio Bolsonaro received on Monday endorsements ​from Ronaldo Caiado and Romeu Zema, two right-wing politicians who ran against him in Sunday's first-round vote, ​for ‌the runoff against President Luiz ⁠Inacio Lula da Silva later this month. Speaking with FRANCE 24's Sharon Gaffney, Anthony Pereira, Executive Director of the Stone Center for Latin American Studies at Tulane University, says that "Lula's path to victory lies in mobilising voters who didn't vote in the first round" while Flavio Bolsonaro "will probably benefit from the voters who voted for other right-wing candidates and who will simply migrate to him, so it looks a lot easier for Flavio to win the second round than it does for Lula".

Sharon GAFFNEY October 6, 2026
Brazil 'has moved to the right progressively over the last two decades', expert says
Brazil 'has moved to the right progressively over the last two decades', expert says

Senator Flavio Bolsonaro received on Monday endorsements ​from Ronaldo Caiado and Romeu Zema, two right-wing politicians who ran against him in Sunday's first-round vote, ​for ‌the runoff against President Luiz ⁠Inacio Lula da Silva later this month. Speaking with FRANCE 24's Sharon Gaffney, Anthony Pereira, Executive Director of the Stone Center for Latin American Studies at Tulane University, says that "Lula's path to victory lies in mobilising voters who didn't vote in the first round" while Flavio Bolsonaro "will probably benefit from the voters who voted for other right-wing candidates and who will simply migrate to him, so it looks a lot easier for Flavio to win the second round than it does for Lula".

FRANCE24 October 6, 2026
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TG EAPCET 2026 Qualified Students Can Apply for FCRI Forestry Course

Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026–27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read: AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date  

NTR's 'God of War' Buzz Grows After Official Project Announcement

Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as  NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and  NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present,  NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks.  

Low Water, High Profits! 15 Best Crops Farmers Should Grow in Water-Scarce Areas

Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.

US lifts blockade of Iran and Iranian supreme leader endorses direct talks with American officials

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said “the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view.” WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.

AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date

Amaravati: The release of the AP EAPCET 2026 results, eagerly awaited by lakhs of students across Andhra Pradesh, has been postponed. Instead of the previously scheduled date, the results will now be announced on July 2 (Thursday), officials confirmed. According to the authorities, the decision was taken as the revised CBSE Class 12 results and the Intermediate Advanced Supplementary examination results are yet to be fully available. Officials also considered requests from students before finalizing the revised schedule. The AP EAPCET 2026 examinations were conducted from May 12 to May 20, with more than 3.29 lakh candidates appearing for the entrance test. As per the original schedule, the results were expected to be declared on June 1. However, since 25% weightage is given to Intermediate marks while preparing the final ranks, the authorities decided to wait until all qualifying examination results are available to ensure that no student is placed at a disadvantage. Officials stated that the final AP EAPCET 2026 ranks will be prepared only after incorporating the updated Intermediate and CBSE marks. The revised results are now scheduled to be released on July 2, allowing all eligible students to receive fair and accurate rankings.

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