Chaired by Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Corridor Development Shane Getson, the committee will support the Alberta government’s work to develop economic corridors and enhance trade between Alberta and India.
This will include providing strategic insight and advice on areas of mutual benefit between Alberta and India, including energy, agriculture, technology, film and television, tourism, aerospace, talent mobility and more.
The committee held its first meeting on June 12 and will convene quarterly.
“Diversifying Alberta’s global partnerships is key to building a strong, resilient economy. India’s size, growth and global influence make it a strategic priority, and this committee will ensure we’re taking practical steps to expand our reach and deliver results.”
“Economic corridor development is more than commodities and infrastructure; it’s about building long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships. India is a huge fast-growing market with many Albertans having strong connections there. We want to leverage those relationships to create economic corridors that will last for generations. After all, fortune favours the bold.”
While Alberta has a long history of international partnership and collaboration with regions around the globe, this is the first time Alberta has struck an advisory committee focused on enhancing our province’s economic corridors with a specific market.
The committee is advisory in nature and members participate on a voluntary basis without renumeration.
Committee members
The committee has nine members:
Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Corridor Development Shane Getson (chair)
Mr. Radhe Gupta, founder and CEO, Rohit Group (member designate)
Mr. Harish Consul, founder and CEO, Ocgrow Ventures (member designate)
Ms. Ilona Maitra, senior business development officer, Palliser Group and CMO, Let’sGameNow (member designate)
Dr. Amit Kumar, professor of mechanical engineering, University of Alberta (member designate)
Mr. Rajeev Mittal, director, HK Consultants Inc. (member designate)
Mr. Puneet Manchanda, manager, Enbridge, and president, Council of India Societies of Edmonton (member designate)
Mr. Buta Singh Rehill, entrepreneur (member designate)
Mr. Francis Aranha, district manager, Compass Group (member designate)
Quick facts
Alberta has had an international office in India, collocated with the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi, since 2014.
India is currently the fifth largest economy in the world and was the seventh largest export market for Alberta in 2024.
Alberta’s exports to India were approximately $611.5 million in 2024, and consisted primarily of vegetables, nickel, energy products, iron and steel, wood pulp, plastics, machinery and mechanical appliances.
Alberta’s imports from India were approximately $510.5 million in 2024, and consisted primarily of iron or steel, machinery, rubber, electronics and textiles.
Indian technology companies such as MPhasis, Wipro Solutions, Tech Mahindra, Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys have opened offices in Alberta in the past few years.
The Universities of Alberta, Calgary and Lethbridge, as well as other post-secondary institutions in Alberta, have established collaborative agreements with various post-secondary institutions in India allowing for intellectual capital and talent exchange.
According to the 2021 Census by Statistics Canada, 122,145 Alberta residents identified as having Indian ethnic or cultural origins – the third-largest Indo-Canadian population in Canada (after Ontario and British Columbia).
FORT WAYNE, Ind., June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: FELE) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a stock purchase transaction involving shares held within the Patricia Schaefer Settlement Trust, a trust established by the late Patricia Schaefer. The purchase transaction involved the acquisition of 1,200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price equal to $86.78 per share, which was the volume-weighted average price of the stock on NASDAQ for the five trading days preceding today’s closing.
Joe Ruzynski, Chief Executive Officer of Franklin Electric, commented on the transaction, stating, “We were saddened to learn of the passing of Patricia Schaefer, a pillar of her community and the daughter of our founder. As we had the option to repurchase shares, we were pleased to be able to provide a source of liquidity for Ms. Schaefer’s estate to satisfy its tax obligations. This purchase also reflects our confidence in Franklin Electric’s strong balance sheet, cash flow generation, our strategic plans, and our future. We are proud to demonstrate our belief in the company’s enduring prospects while simultaneously supporting the needs of the Schaefer estate.”
In connection with the purchase transaction, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an increase to the Company’s share repurchase authorization of 1,200,000 shares of common stock, such that after the transaction described herein, the Company will continue to be authorized to repurchase up to an aggregate 1,126,635 shares of its common stock.
AboutFranklinElectric Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of systems and components for the movement of water and energy. Recognized as a technical leader in its products and services, Franklin Electric serves customers worldwide in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, municipal, and fueling applications. Franklin Electric is proud to be recognized in Newsweek’s lists of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024, Most Trustworthy Companies 2024, and Greenest Companies 2025; Best Places to Work in Indiana 2024; and America’s Climate Leaders 2024 by USA Today.
“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements contained herein, including those relating to market conditions or the Company’s financial results, costs, expenses or expense reductions, profit margins, inventory levels, foreign currency translation rates, liquidity expectations, business goals and sales growth, involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, risks and uncertainties with respect to general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, weather conditions, new housing starts, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, effect of price increases, raw material costs, technology factors, integration of acquisitions, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, future trends, epidemics and pandemics, and other risks which are detailed in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, included in Item 1A of Part I of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, Exhibit 99.1 attached thereto and in Item 1A of Part II of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made herein are based on information currently available, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
ROSEMONT, Ill., June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wintrust Financial Corporation (“Wintrust”) (Nasdaq: WTFC) today announced that on July 15, 2025 it will redeem (i) all of the 5,000,000 issued and outstanding shares of its Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D (the “Series D Preferred Stock”) (Nasdaq: WTFCM), for a redemption price of $25.00 per share, and (ii) all of the 11,500 issued and outstanding shares of its 6.875% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series E (the “Series E Preferred Stock”), and all of the related 11,500,000 issued and outstanding depositary shares (the “Depositary Shares”) (Nasdaq: WTFCP), each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of Series E Preferred Stock, for a redemption price of $25,000 per share of Series E Preferred Stock (or $25.00 per Depositary Share). The redemptions will be funded with a portion of the net proceeds from Wintrust’s previously disclosed public offering of depositary shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of its 7.875% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series F, which was completed on May 22, 2025.
The Series D Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock (and related Depositary Shares) will be redeemed on the upcoming dividend payment date of July 15, 2025 (the “Redemption Date”). On and after the Redemption Date, no shares of Series D Preferred Stock, Series E Preferred Stock or Depositary Shares will remain outstanding, and trading of the Series D Preferred Stock and Depositary Shares on the NASDAQ Stock Market will also cease.
The regular quarterly dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock and the Series E Preferred Stock represented by the Depositary Shares will be paid separately on the Redemption Date to holders of record on July 1, 2025 for such dividend payment in the customary manner. Accordingly, the redemption price will not include any accrued and unpaid dividends. On and after the Redemption Date, all dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock (and related Depositary Shares) will cease to accrue.
The Series D Preferred Stock and the Depositary Shares are held only in book-entry form through The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) and will be redeemed in accordance with the applicable procedures of DTC. Payment to DTC for the Series D Preferred Stock will be made by Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, as redemption agent for the Series D Preferred Stock (the “Redemption Agent”). The address for the Redemption Agent is as follows:
Equiniti Trust Company, LLC 28 Liberty Street, 53rd Floor New York, NY 10005
Payment to DTC for the Depositary Shares will be made by U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as depositary (the “Depositary”), in accordance with the deposit agreement governing the Depositary Shares. The address for the Depositary is as follows:
U.S. Bank Global Corporate Trust 111 Fillmore Ave E St. Paul, MN 55107
Investors in the Series D Preferred Stock and the Depositary Shares should contact the bank or broker through which they hold a beneficial interest in the Series D Preferred Stock or Depositary Shares, as applicable, for information about obtaining the redemption price payment for the shares of Series D Preferred Stock or Depositary Shares, as applicable, in which they have a beneficial interest.
About Wintrust
Wintrust is a financial holding company whose common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Guided by its “Different Approach, Better Results” philosophy, Wintrust offers the sophisticated resources of a large bank while providing a community banking experience to each customer. Wintrust operates more than 200 retail banking locations through 16 community bank subsidiaries in the greater Chicago, southern Wisconsin, west Michigan, northwest Indiana, and southwest Florida market areas. In addition, Wintrust operates various non-bank business units, providing residential mortgage origination, wealth management, commercial and life insurance premium financing, short-term accounts receivable financing/outsourced administrative services to the temporary staffing services industry, and qualified intermediary services for tax-deferred exchanges.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and certain assumptions made by our management. Investors are cautioned that such statements are predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. Wintrust’s expected financial results or other plans, including Wintrust’s intention to redeem the outstanding shares of the Series D Preferred Stock, the Series E Preferred Stock and the Depositary Shares, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, any of which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see Wintrust’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and any of Wintrust’s subsequent SEC filings. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and, except as required by law, Wintrust undertakes no duty to update the information.
For more information contact: Timothy S. Crane, President & Chief Executive Officer David A. Dykstra, Vice Chairman & Chief Operating Officer (847) 939-9000
GREAT FALLS – A Hays woman accused of witness tampering and failing to report child abuse appeared this week for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Chantel Lee King, 56, pleaded not guilty to a superseding indictment charging her with two counts of attempted obstructing justice by witness tampering and two counts of failure to report child abuse. If convicted of the most serious charge contained in the superseding indictment, King faces 20 years imprisonment, $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Johnston presided. King was released on conditions pending further proceedings.
Count 1 of the superseding indictment alleges that in September 2020, King knowingly attempted to intimidate and corruptly persuade another person, with intent to hinder, delay, and prevent the communication to a law enforcement officer or judge of the United States of information relating to the commission or possible commission of a federal offense, namely aggravated sexual abuse in Indian Country, sexual abuse in Indian Country, and abusive sexual contact in Indian Country, and took a substantial step towards the commission of the offense.
Count 2 of the superseding indictment alleges that in September 2020, King, a teacher, school counselor, instructional aide, teacher’s aide, and teacher’s assistant, employed by a tribal, Federal, public, and private school, knowing or having reasonable suspicion that Jane Doe 1 was abused in Indian Country, did fail to immediately report such abuse to the local child protective services agency or local law enforcement agency.
Count 3 of the superseding indictment alleges that in October 2020, King, a teacher, school counselor, instructional aide, teacher’s aide, and teacher’s assistant, employed by a tribal, Federal, public, and private school, knowing or having reasonable suspicion that Jane Doe 2 was abused in Indian Country, did fail to immediately report such abuse to the local child protective services agency or local law enforcement agency.
Count 4 of the superseding indictment alleges that in October 2020, King knowingly attempted to intimidate and corruptly persuade another person, with intent to hinder, delay, and prevent the communication to a law enforcement officer or judge of the United States of information relating to the commission or possible commission of a federal offense, namely aggravated sexual abuse in Indian Country, sexual abuse in Indian Country, and abusive sexual contact in Indian Country, and took a substantial step towards the commission of the offense.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-38.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
The John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition is a simulated hearing under the rules of the WTO dispute settlement system involving exchanges of written submissions and adversarial hearings before panelists on international trade law issues. The competition is organized by the European Law Students’ Association (ELSA). The WTO has been a technical supporter of the competition since its inception in 2002.
This year, 65 student teams from 35 WTO members competed in the Regional Rounds, including South and West Asia, East Asia and Oceania, Africa, the Americas (North, South, and the Caribbean), and Europe. Nineteen teams competed in the South and West Asia Round, 12 teams were represented in the East Asia and Oceania Round, 11 teams participated in the African Round, eight teams competed in the All-American Round, and 18 teams took part in the two European Regional Rounds. From these 65 teams, 24 qualified for the Final Oral Round, representing a wide global participation from 15 WTO members: Belgium, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Kenya, the Netherlands, the Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Chinese Taipei, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
DDG Ellard opened the Final Oral Round and welcomed the students to the WTO on 10 June. In her opening remarks, DDG Ellard emphasized the importance of the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition to capacity building by training students in international trade law, legal writing, and oral advocacy skills. DDG Ellard noted that her own experience participating in moot court as a law student showed her “the immense value of the experience you have embarked on in the development of knowledge, skills, and life-long friendships and connections.” DDG Ellard noted that Jackson Moot alumni can be found working in governments, academia, think tanks, law firms, and the WTO Secretariat.
DDG Ellard congratulated Mr Marios Tokas of the Geneva Graduate Institute and Mr Panagiotis Kyriakou of the law firm Archipel, authors of this year’s moot problem. She noted that the topic of the case the students have been debating “demonstrates our challenge in addressing modern day problems — such as digital transfer of data, protection of consumer privacy, and regulation of competition (or anti-trust).” She drew the students’ attention to the ongoing work in the WTO on digital technologies and trade and e-commerce-related issues. “These efforts underscore the vision that even as trade evolves the rules-based approach with the WTO at its centre must continue to be the way forward with the economic rule of law,” she said.
Noting that the international trade community supports the competition, DDG Ellard thanked all the sponsors and WTO staff members who contributed to the organization of the competition and wished teams the best of luck.
The students also had the opportunity to meet DG Okonjo-Iweala on 13 June and heard from her how much the WTO looks forward to welcoming the students each year not only to the competition, but to the community of international trade law.
During this week, teams are competing against each other before panels of WTO law experts. The grand final of the competition will take place on Saturday, 14 June, and will be livestreamed here.
TULSA, Okla. – Michael David Gregory from Commerce, Oklahoma was sentenced today for the death of a two-month-old child who died from severe head and eye injuries that a child abuse pediatrician diagnosed as abusive head trauma. Additionally, Gregory was also sentenced for assault related to brain injuries he caused to another two-month-old child, the twin sister of the first infant, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Gregory, 30, to a total of 240 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Judge Hill further ordered Gregory to pay a $200 special monetary assessment.
According to a charging document, Gregory pleaded guilty to one count of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country and one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. According to his plea agreement, Gregory was caring for the twin two-month-old infants at an apartment he shared with his girlfriend in Commerce, Oklahoma. While Gregory’s girlfriend was at work, Gregory forcefully picked up and handled the newborn infants. Gregory admitted that his actions caused traumatic and severe brain and eye injuries in both infants, resulting in the death of one child identified as A.M.R.
Michael David Gregory is not a member of a federally recognized tribe. However, the apartment in which Gregory cared for the twins is located on the Quapaw Nation reservation, and both infants are considered “Indian persons” because they are eligible for membership in the Choctaw Nation.
Michael David Gregory was previously released on bond in this case. Judge Hill ordered him to report to a United States Bureau of Prisons facility on July 22, 2025.
The Commerce Police Department and the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melody Nelson prosecuted the case.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is expanding access to vital care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities by approving Medicaid State Plan Amendments (SPAs) in several states. Indian Health Service (IHS) and Tribal clinics in Minnesota, New Mexico,Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming are now authorized to provide Medicaid clinic services beyond the physical clinic site, including in homes, schools, and other appropriate community locations.
The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) announced a significant financial commitment of ₹6,000 crore to strengthen the Agri Stack initiative under the Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM) during the National Conference on Agri Stack: Turning Data into Delivery, held at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. The funding, aimed at transforming India’s agricultural landscape through technology, will support States in building robust digital infrastructure for farmer-centric governance.
The allocation includes ₹4,000 crore for developing Farmer Registries, including legal heir systems, and ₹2,000 crore for conducting Digital Crop Surveys. The funds will be disbursed on a first-come-first-served basis, incentivizing States to accelerate their adoption of digital tools. Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary (Agriculture), emphasized the importance of linking State Farmer Registries with updated Records of Rights (RoR) to ensure accurate farmer identification and seamless delivery of schemes like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, and KCC.
A key highlight of the conference was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Maharashtra, Kerala, Bihar, and Odisha, alongside the PSB Alliance with the National Farmers’ Welfare Program Implementation Society (NFWPIS). These agreements aim to provide small and marginal farmers with digital access to credit services through Farmer Registry-linked authentication, reducing paperwork and enhancing financial inclusion.
The conference also saw the launch of the Special Central Assistance (SCA) Guidelines, jointly unveiled by the Secretaries of Agriculture and Land Resources, alongside other dignitaries. Technical sessions addressed challenges such as outdated tribal land records and errors in crop survey data, proposing solutions like remote sensing, AI/ML tools, and automated data validation to improve efficiency.
Shri Pramod Kumar Meherda, Additional Secretary (Digital), MoA&FW, underscored the need for data quality assurance and compliance with Unified Farmer Service Interface (UFSI) standards. The initiative is poised to empower farmers with tools like Digitally Verifiable Certificates (DVCs) and farmer authorization systems, enabling secure sharing of land and crop information.
The Ministry’s commitment to leveraging technology for transparent governance marks a significant step toward inclusive, data-driven agricultural development, promising better access to services for millions of farmers across India.
The National Conference on Agri Stack: Turning Data into Delivery, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi, highlighted groundbreaking AI-driven innovations and state-led achievements in transforming India’s agricultural ecosystem through the Agri Stack initiative.
A standout feature was the unveiling of an AI-powered chatbot, built using Google Gemini and trained on Agri Stack data, capable of answering farmers’ queries in multiple languages. Additional AI tools are being piloted for crop identification, facial authentication of surveyors, and optimizing backend systems, showcasing the Ministry’s push toward cutting-edge technology. The Chief Knowledge Officer and Advisor (CKO&A) introduced the Digitally Verifiable Credential (DVC), or Kisan Pehchan Patra, which allows farmers to generate authenticated credentials for specific land parcels and crops, integrated with DigiLocker and dynamically updated upon land mutation.
The conference also launched a unified grievance redressal portal with OTP-based login, multilingual support, and audio upload features, enabling farmers to resolve land-related disputes efficiently. Farmers can now authorize representatives to access services or lodge grievances, enhancing accessibility.
A dedicated session, “Insights from States on Agri Stack Usage,” featured presentations from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. Maharashtra highlighted its progress in enrolling farmers in the Farmer Registry and sought central support for a Data Provisioning Engine (DPE) and an AI-driven advisory sandbox, Mahavistaar AI. Uttar Pradesh shared its success in integrating Agri Stack with MSP e-procurement for 2024, while addressing challenges in Digital Crop Survey (DCS) implementation. Karnataka showcased multi-layered innovations, including linking its FRUITS platform with banking systems, using Agri Stack for disaster relief, and integrating soil health cards for personalized advisories.
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw from the historic Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement (RCBA) reached between the Federal Government and the Six Sovereigns—the states of Washington and Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation:
“Donald Trump doesn’t know the first thing about the Northwest and our way of life—so of course, he is abruptly and unilaterally upending a historic agreement that finally put us on a path to salmon recovery, while preserving stable dam operations for growers and producers, public utilities, river users, ports and others throughout the Northwest. This decision is grievously wrong and couldn’t be more shortsighted.
“The Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement was the result of years of painstaking work—this was a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize infrastructure across the Columbia River Basin, support reliable clean energy, and save imperiled salmon and steelhead runs. The Trump administration’s senseless decision to tear it up is a betrayal of our Tribes and a tremendous setback for the entire Northwest.
“After nearly 30 years of litigation, this agreement also led to a durable stay in court proceedings, which is now in jeopardy. I am going to continue doing everything I can to support the restoration of healthy and abundant salmon runs—including through the annual Appropriations process. We must save our salmon.”
In August 2022, Senator Murray and Governor Inslee released joint findings and recommendations at the conclusion of an extensive, months-long joint federal-state process that evaluated the feasibility of breaching the Lower Snake River Dams as a way of protecting endangered salmon and steelhead species. Murray and Inslee concluded that breach was not feasible at that time as more needs to be done to replace the benefits of the dams–particularly investments in clean energy—but that it is imperative to prioritize major salmon recovery projects that can be undertaken in the near term. Senator Murray’s statement on the findings of the Murray-Inslee joint federal-state process is HERE.
A final version of the independent report commissioned by Senator Murray and Governor Inslee can be found HERE. The independent report—along with months of public input, and discussion with stakeholders and Tribes—helped guide the Senator and Governor’s August 2022 recommendation.
In December 2023, Senator Murray applauded the agreement reached between the federal government and the Six Sovereigns to allow for an extended stay in court proceedings on litigation involving the management of the Columbia-Snake River System.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
AAIB Update: Air India flight AI171
Update on the fatal accident which occurred in Ahmedabad, India on 12 June 2025
A team of four investigators from the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has arrived in India. They have expertise in aircraft operations, engineering and recorded data. Their role is to provide additional support and expertise to the safety investigation being led by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.
The UK AAIB has ‘Expert’ status in the Indian safety investigation. In accordance with international protocols, release of information on the investigation rests solely with the Indian authorities.
British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): 020 7008 5000.
President Wavel Ramkalawan visited the Paradise Arena at Roche Caiman earlier this week to assess preparations for the upcoming International Boxing Tournament being organised by Tides Seychelles.
Set to be hosted on home soil later this month, the highly anticipated event will welcome boxers from across the Indian Ocean and beyond, further establishing Seychelles as a growing hub for regional sporting competitions.
During his visit, the President had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Colvin Beaudouin representative of Tides Seychelles, as well as Mr. Ameer Afif from Hunt, Deltel & Co Ltd—the main sponsor of the event. The President also interacted with several local boxers and their coaches Mr Jerry Legras and Roland Raforme, commending their discipline, perseverance and dedication to the sport.
President Ramkalawan expressed his appreciation for the initiative undertaken by Tides Seychelles and praised the collaborative effort between private sponsors, local organisers, and the boxing community in promoting youth engagement and sporting excellence in Seychelles.
“The boxing ring is not just a platform for physical strength, but a symbol of discipline, respect and unity. I am proud to see our youth so determined and focused. Seychelles is proud of you,” said the President.
He further encouraged the young athletes to continue striving for greatness, reminding them that representing Seychelles on an international stage is both a privilege and a powerful opportunity.
The International Boxing Tournament promises to be a thrilling event on the nation’s sporting calendar and will serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
Google sued Chile-based LATAM Airlines in U.S. federal court on Thursday, seeking a declaration that Brazilian courts cannot force the tech giant to take down a YouTube video in the U.S. that accused a LATAM employee of sexually abusing a child.
Alphabet’s Google, which owns YouTube, said in the lawsuit that LATAM was attempting to “make an end-run” around protections for free speech under the U.S. Constitution by suing in Brazil to force the video’s removal worldwide.
“LATAM has not received any official communication about the court case,” the company told Reuters.
Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda said in a statement that the company has “long supported the legal principle that courts in a country have jurisdiction over content available in that country, but not over what content should be available in other countries.”
Right-wing social media companies Trump Media and Rumble filed a similar lawsuit in Florida in February against a Brazilian judge who had ordered them to remove the U.S.-based accounts of a leading supporter of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. A federal judge decided in the case that the companies were not required to comply with the order in the United States.
According to Google’s lawsuit filed in San Jose, California, U.S. citizen and Florida resident Raymond Moreira posted two YouTube videos in 2018 of his 6-year-old son outlining allegations of sexual abuse that the child said he experienced from a LATAM employee while traveling as an unaccompanied minor.
Moreira sued LATAM in Florida in 2020 over the alleged abuse, which led to a confidential settlement.
LATAM sued Google in Brazil in 2018 seeking an order to remove the video from YouTube. A Brazilian appeals court is set to consider next week whether it has the authority to order Google to take down the video worldwide.
Google asked the court in California on Thursday to declare that LATAM cannot force the tech giant to remove the video in the United States.
Canada’s Supreme Court upheld an order for Google to remove some search results worldwide in a separate case in 2018. A California judge halted that order’s U.S. enforcement in 2017.
Persons with disabilities are more likely to live in poverty than working-age persons without disabilities because of economic and social exclusion, barriers to employment, and other factors. Recognizing this, the Government of Canada created the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) to support the financial security of working age, low-income persons with disabilities by providing them with direct financial support.
Through the Canada Disability Benefit Act that came into force on June 22, 2024, investments of $6.1 billion over six years provided under Budget 2024, and the Canada Disability Benefit Regulations that came into force on May 15, 2025, the CDB is now enshrined into Canada’s social safety-net.
The benefit is administered by Service Canada, and will provide a maximum of $200 per month, for a total of $2,400 per year, to low-income persons with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64. It is estimated that this benefit will increase the financial well-being of over 600,000 low-income persons with disabilities. The benefit is intended to supplement, not replace, existing provincial and territorial income support measures and fill a gap in the federal social safety net between the Canada Child Benefit and Old Age Security for working-age persons with disabilities.
As of June 20, 2025, people will be to apply in a manner that works best for them, including an online self-serve option. If needed, people can receive assistance applying for the benefit by phone or in person at their nearest Service Canada Centre. The first payments of the CDB will be made in July 2025 for applications received and approved by June 30, 2025.
To receive the benefit, a person must:
be a resident of Canada for the purposes of the Income Tax Act
have been approved for the disability tax credit
be between the ages of 18 and 64
have filed an income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency for the previous tax year (their spouse or common-law partner, if they have one, must have also file their taxes.)
be one of the following:
a Canadian citizen
a permanent resident
a protected person
a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the past 18 months
someone who is registered or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act.
If a person is married or has a common-law partner, their spouse or common-law partner must also have filed an income tax and benefit return with the Canada Revenue Agency for the previous tax year. In some exceptional cases, this requirement may be waived.
With the support from the CDB, persons with disabilities will have more money to cover the costs of accessible housing, medical care and disability supports.
SOUTH BEND – Late yesterday, Jonathan Alan Peters, 33 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to one count of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Peters was sentenced to 420 months in prison, 15 years of supervised release. Restitution will be imposed at a later date.
According to documents in the case, Peters took photographs depicting images of child sexual abuse material. He then distributed the images to other people on the Internet. The investigation revealed he possessed 110 images and 29 videos which depicted child sexual abuse material.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Mishawaka Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
SOUTH BEND – Yesterday, Nvaun Lewis, 30 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Lewis was sentenced to 88 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, police conducted a traffic stop in Michigan City and found Lewis in possession of a loaded pistol with an extended magazine and a “full auto” switch. Lewis had multiple prior felony convictions, including robbery and armed robbery, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Michigan City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
2. With a view towards enhancing ease of doing business and keeping in view the sector-specific constraints, it has been decided to allow importers to make advance remittance for import of shipping vessel, without bank guarantee, or an unconditional, irrevocable standby Letter of Credit, up to USD 50 million, subject to the conditions mentioned in para-C.1.3.3 of MD-Imports, as applicable.
3. AD banks may bring the contents of this circular to the notice of their constituents concerned.
4. The directions contained in this circular have been issued under Section 10(4) and Section 11(1) of the FEMA, 1999 (42 of 1999) and are without prejudice to permissions / approvals, if any, required under any other law.
The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said Iran, its strategic ally, was “paying the price” for supporting militant groups in Gaza in their decades-long struggle against Israel, after Israel launched large-scale attacks on Friday against Iran.
Hamas leaders have repeatedly thanked Iran for its military and financial support to the group in its fight against Israel, including during the ongoing war that erupted in October 2023.
“Iran is today paying the price for its steadfast positions in support of Palestine and its resistance, and its adherence to its independent national decision,” Hamas said in a statement.
Tehran has vowed retaliation for Israel’s early morning attack on Iranian military and nuclear facilities that killed several top commanders. Israel said it was working to intercept 100 drones that were launched by Iran, but had not reached Israel.
Hamas armed wing spokesperson Abu Ubaida said in a post on Telegram later on Friday that the group would stand by Iran in its conflict against Israel.
“The Zionist enemy is completely deluded if it thinks that these treacherous strikes can undermine the fronts of resistance or stabilize the pillars of this fragile entity in the region,” he said.
“On the contrary, it continues to make successive strategic mistakes that will bring it closer to its inevitable demise, God willing.”
ADVISORY – ANNVILLE – Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy for At-Risk Teens Graduates Latest Class
The latest class of the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) for teens will graduate on their way to a brighter future. The cadets successfully completed the 22-week residential phase of the program and will now embark on a 24-month mentorship phase in their home communities.
Dr. George M. Schwartz (Brig. Gen. Ret.) will be the commencement speaker.
The KSCA provides Pennsylvania teens who are struggling an opportunity to learn skills such as self-discipline, leadership, and responsibility through an engaging, safe, and structured residential experience. Cadets are guided to improve their academic standing, regain credits, and increase their potential for future employment or further their high school or post-secondary education.
WHAT: Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy’s graduation
WHEN: Saturday, June 14, 2024, 10 A.M.
WHERE: Bldg. 8-80 Bearty Ave. Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA
NOTE: All media interested in covering the graduation should contact Angela Watson at watsona@pa.govor 717-507-7000 today to arrange easy access to the event.
DIRECTIONS: All visitors must enter through the main gate. All other entrances and exits to Fort Indiantown Gap are permanently closed. Take I-81 North and get off at exit 85B Indiantown Gap. This will put you on 934 north to the main gate. You must show a state- or federally-issued identification card to enter the installation. Continue through the access point to the first light, and take a right onto Service Rd. Next, take a right onto Bearty Ave. Then turn right on Bellamy Ave. to Bldg. 8-80. More information here: https://www.ftig.ng.mil/Gate-Construction/.
NOTE: Commonwealth Media Services will film the graduation ceremony and distribute video through PAcast after the event.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolences to Britain’s King Charles III over the deaths of many Britons in the crash of an Air India plane.
In his message, the Chinese leader said he was shocked to learn of the crash of the Air India plane, which resulted in the deaths of many Britons.
On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi Jinping expressed deep sorrow for the victims, expressed sincere condolences to the families of the victims and the injured, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a message of condolences to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW DELHI, June 13 (Xinhua) — Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said he has met the sole survivor of a plane crash that occurred in the western state of Gujarat on Thursday.
“Air India flight AI-171 crashed this afternoon and it is feared that many passengers have lost their lives. The entire country mourns and supports the families of the victims,” he told reporters. “There were 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. The good news is that one passenger survived the crash and I met him. The death toll will be announced after proper DNA testing,” the home minister added.
A. Shah noted that attempts to save people failed because 125,000 liters of fuel caught fire when the plane crashed and the temperature rose to extreme levels. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW DELHI, June 13 (Xinhua) — Aviation authorities have recovered one of the two black boxes from the Air India plane that crashed in the western Indian state of Gujarat, local newspaper Hindustan Times reported.
The plane, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday afternoon.
“One of the two black boxes, located in the tail section of the plane, was found and placed under secure guard. The Main Directorate of Civil Aviation will take away equipment to analyze the recordings. The second black box, located in the front section of the plane, has yet to be found,” the newspaper writes, citing a source.
There were 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese and one Canadian on board the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed on the grounds of a medical college, as well as two pilots and 10 flight attendants.
Air India confirmed on Friday that all 241 people on board were killed in the crash. The sole survivor is being treated in hospital.
The Air Accident Investigation Bureau of the Indian government is investigating the cause of the incident.
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said he spoke with Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran after the crash and expressed his willingness to support the Indian government’s investigation.
The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft with tail number AI171 fell from a height of about 250 meters after takeoff and crashed on the territory of the medical college, causing serious damage to buildings.
One person was killed at the college, at least nine were missing and 50 were injured, according to a local medical organization. –0–
President Donald Trump has promised not to cut Medicaid many times over the past decade, including in the tax-and-spending legislative package he has made a top priority in his second administration.
But several provisions in the bill, which the House of Representatives passed in a largely party-line 215-214 vote in May 2025, could cause millions of Americans enrolled in Medicaid to lose their health insurance coverage, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Medicaid is funded jointly by the federal government and the states. The program provides nearly 80 million Americans, most of whom are low-income or have disabilities, with health insurance.
As a scholar who researches access to health care, I am concerned about the possibility that millions of people will lose their health insurance coverage should this bill become law. In many cases, that could occur due to new bureaucratic obstacles the bill would introduce.
The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan agency that provides evidence-supported information to Congress, estimates that 10.9 million Americans would lose their health insurance by 2034 if the House of Representatives’ version of that package were to become law.
Another 2.1 million people who the CBO estimates would end up uninsured are Americans who today have coverage they bought in the marketplaces that the Affordable Care Act created.
Other estimates suggest that the number of Americans losing their coverage could run even higher.
Obstructing Medicaid expansion
The House bill would reduce incentives the federal government provides states to expand their Medicaid programs as part of the ACA.
Eliminating these incentives would make it even less likely that Texas and the other nine states that still have not expanded Medicaid eligibility would do so in the future.
The bill would also make it harder for states to come up with their share of Medicaid funding by limiting “provider taxes.” These taxes are charged to hospitals, doctors and other medical providers. The revenue they raise help pay for the state’s share of Medicaid costs.
Losing Medicaid coverage may leave millions of low-income Americans without insurance coverage, with no affordable alternatives for health care.
A supporter of the Affordable Care Act stands in front of the Supreme Court building on Nov. 10, 2020. Samuel Corum/Getty Images
Making Medicaid enrollment more complicated
Other proposed changes in the House bill would indirectly cut Medicaid coverage by forcing people to deal with more red tape to get or keep it.
This would happen primarily through the introduction of “work requirements” for Medicaid coverage. When enrolled in the program, applicants who are between 19 and 64 years old would need to certify they are working at least 80 hours a month or spending that much time engaged in comparable activities, such as community service.
Work requirements specifically target people eligible for Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act’s expansion of the program. They tend to have slightly higher incomes than the other people eligible for this benefit.
Arkansas gave Medicaid work requirements a try during the first Trump administration. Researchers who studied what happened found that 1 in 4 of the Arkansans enrolled in Medicaid affected by the policy lost their health insurance coverage. They also found that in most cases, this occurred because of bureaucratic obstacles, and that the policy didn’t lead to more people getting jobs.
By some estimates, the work requirements provision alone would lead to close to 5 million people of the 7.8 million being denied Medicaid coverage.
Changes in the House version of the bill would make it harder to get this coverage. This includes reducing the time Americans have to enroll in plans and eliminating certain subsidies. It also makes the enrollment process more complicated.
Some states may also reduce eligibility for certain groups or cover fewer services, as states seek to reduce their Medicaid costs.
And some states, including Iowa and Utah, are already pursuing work requirements on their own whether or not they become mandatory across the nation.
If fewer Americans have health insurance due to changes the Trump administration is making and the policies embedded in the pending tax-and-spending legislative package, the health of millions of people could get worse due to forgone care. And at the same time, their medical debts could grow larger.
Dr. Simon F. Haeder has previously received funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for unrelated projects.
Residents of the national capital may finally get some relief from the relentless heat, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms and rainfall later on Friday, which are expected to ease the sweltering conditions that have gripped Delhi and surrounding regions for the past several days.
Speaking to IANS, IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava said: “The maximum temperature in Delhi-NCR remains high, and the night temperature is also above normal. Due to these conditions, we had issued a red alert on Thursday. For June 13, we are expecting hot and humid conditions during the day, with a possibility of a heatwave in some parts of the region. Accordingly, we have issued an orange to red alert for today.”
Srivastava added that thunderstorm activity is anticipated by Friday night, with wind speeds ranging from 40 to 60 km/h.
“This weather pattern may persist for the next two to three days, which is likely to bring down the maximum temperature,” he said.
“Currently, Delhi is recording temperatures around 44 degrees Celsius. We expect this to fall to around 40 degrees Celsius by June 15 or 16.”
Srivastava also said that northwestern India is also expected to remain hot, with no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 48–72 hours.
“We estimate a potential drop of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in the coming days. However, western Rajasthan will continue to face severe heat conditions, for which a red alert has been issued. Warm night conditions are being observed across the region, with night temperatures also staying above average, increasing the overall impact.”
The IMD has issued red alerts for Punjab and Haryana for the next two days due to expected extreme conditions. Rajasthan is also under a red alert for Friday, which will be followed by an orange alert for the next two days. In Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, orange alerts have been issued as cooler weather is expected over the weekend.
Srivastava also noted a likelihood of light to very light rainfall in parts of Delhi, associated with the thunderstorm activity.
“While the intensity of the rainfall may be low, it will contribute to a temporary cooling effect and offer some respite from the oppressive heat.”
Responding to whether this summer has been hotter than usual, Srivastava said: “Heatwaves are not new to Delhi or North India. We witnessed similar extreme temperatures last year as well. It would not be accurate to say this year is significantly worse; rather, such patterns are becoming increasingly frequent.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK and Scottish governments join forces to boost Scottish growth
Scottish Secretary and Minister for Business co-chair business forum
Business and trade union groups working with governments to grow Scotland’s economy faster
Murray urges new collaboration for Scotland’s defence industry
For the first time in more than two years, the Scottish Business Growth Group was convened in Edinburgh today, bringing the UK and Scottish governments together with business leaders to discuss how they can deliver economic growth.
The forum, jointly chaired by the Scottish Secretary Ian Murray and the Scottish Government’s Minister for Business Richard Lochhead, brings together officials from both of Scotland’s governments alongside business representatives and the Scottish Trades Union Congress. With economic growth the UK Government’s number one priority, Murray used a speech in March at the University of Edinburgh to announce that this group would be reconvened, with a fresh focus on collaboration across governments and sectors.
During the meeting, the Scottish Secretary provided updates on recent and upcoming announcements from the UK Government and outlined their significance for businesses in Scotland. This includes the Spending Review, the Strategic Defence Review and economic opportunities for the Scottish supply chain, the recent trade deals agreed with the EU, US and India – and the modern Industrial Strategy which will be announced shortly.
Recognising there are already a range of areas in which the UK and Scottish governments work constructively with business, the Scottish Secretary called for collaboration in new areas which could yield significant economic benefits, such as defence.
Murray has also been working with business groups as part of his Brand Scotland programme and last week announced that the Scotland Office will fund the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to launch a new international trade initiative. This collaboration will be supported by a grant of £100,000, to promote Scottish goods and services and bring foreign direct investment into Scotland.
Following the meeting, Mr Murray said:
“Scotland has two governments and most Scots rightly expect their politicians to work in partnership wherever possible, especially on something as important as economic growth. Political differences aside, I have always sought to engage constructively with Scottish Government ministers and I was delighted to co-chair this important forum today with Richard Lochhead.
“The business and trade union groups which joined our discussion challenged us to go further and faster in helping businesses and workers feel the benefits of economic growth. I am determined to meet that challenge and want the Scottish Government to work with me in areas where we have not previously collaborated.
“With the UK Government committing to significant increases in defence spending, there are huge opportunities for Scottish workers and defence firms, but only if both governments fully commit to giving our young people the skills they need and backing our world class defence industry.
“On nuclear power, the announcement this week of UK Government investment for Sizewell in England is a reminder of the huge potential of nuclear power. Thousands of skilled jobs and billions of pounds of investment could come to Scotland, but only if both governments work in partnership with industry to unlock those opportunities.
“Boosting Scottish exports and selling the best of Scotland overseas is a key lever in delivering economic growth at home. Our Brand Scotland programme, boosted by £2.25 million in the Spending Review, will do just that. I am delighted to be working with the Scottish Government and businesses of all sizes to deliver trade missions and sell our goods and services to the world.”
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has extended condolences to the government and people of India after a plane that was carrying 242 passengers crashed.
“The thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the people of India as well as the people of all other countries affected by the crash during this difficult time and extends its sympathy to those families who have lost loved ones,” the department said in a statement.
This as an India Airlines plane crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. Flight AI171 was en route from Ahmedabad to London when it crashed into a hostel for doctors.
It was carrying 242 passengers from various nationalities, and the cause of the crash is still unknown.
According to the latest reports, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has visited the scene of the plane crash and met the injured people in the hospital.
BBC reported that the sole survivor, British national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, who sat in seat 11A, is recovering in hospital, with his brother stating he “has no idea how he survived”.
The British public service broadcaster stated there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian on the flight.
Meanwhile, other reports indicate that at least 290 people are dead as families continue to provide DNA samples to assist in identification victims.
Former India’s Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who served between 2016 and 2021, was among the passengers on the plane. – SAnews.gov.za
The Human Sciences Research Council’s Africa BRICS and Global South (ABGS) research unit will host a seminar focused on utilising the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to promote regional health-industrial integration and foster inclusive development across the continent.
The ABGS research unit, based at the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC), focuses on issues related to Africa, BRICS, and the Global South.
Their research explores topics like economic integration, health security, and the role of BRICS in the Global South.
The hybrid seminar will be held at the HSRC Building in Pretoria on Tuesday, 17 June 2025.
Presented by Senior Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, Dr Geoffrey Banda, the seminar will focus on how the AfCFTA can be a powerful catalyst for strengthening Africa’s local health security through increased and resilient regional trade, industrialisation, and innovation.
“The seminar will further explore how aligning health and industrial policy within the framework of the AfCFTA can drive job creation, enhance resilience, and support the continent’s broader development ambitions under Agenda 2063,” the advisory read.
In his recent book, “Cancer Care in Pandemic Times: Building Inclusive Local Health Security in Africa and India”, Banda makes a strong argument for an interdisciplinary approach that combines health research with industrialisation and regional economic integration.
The HSRC said this approach aims to develop sustainable and context-specific solutions to the health challenges faced in Africa.
Key themes to be explored include the vulnerabilities associated with reliance on global supply chains, the intentional connection between health and industrial capabilities, the transition to new technologies along with industrial capabilities, and the use of the AfCFTA to scale innovative procurement.
“This approach aims to gradually develop continental innovation ecosystems that support resilient regional trading systems.”- SAnews.gov.za
Residents of the national capital may finally get some relief from the relentless heat, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms and rainfall later on Friday, which are expected to ease the sweltering conditions that have gripped Delhi and surrounding regions for the past several days.
Speaking to IANS, IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava said: “The maximum temperature in Delhi-NCR remains high, and the night temperature is also above normal. Due to these conditions, we had issued a red alert on Thursday. For June 13, we are expecting hot and humid conditions during the day, with a possibility of a heatwave in some parts of the region. Accordingly, we have issued an orange to red alert for today.”
Srivastava added that thunderstorm activity is anticipated by Friday night, with wind speeds ranging from 40 to 60 km/h.
“This weather pattern may persist for the next two to three days, which is likely to bring down the maximum temperature,” he said.
“Currently, Delhi is recording temperatures around 44 degrees Celsius. We expect this to fall to around 40 degrees Celsius by June 15 or 16.”
Srivastava also said that northwestern India is also expected to remain hot, with no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 48–72 hours.
“We estimate a potential drop of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in the coming days. However, western Rajasthan will continue to face severe heat conditions, for which a red alert has been issued. Warm night conditions are being observed across the region, with night temperatures also staying above average, increasing the overall impact.”
The IMD has issued red alerts for Punjab and Haryana for the next two days due to expected extreme conditions. Rajasthan is also under a red alert for Friday, which will be followed by an orange alert for the next two days. In Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, orange alerts have been issued as cooler weather is expected over the weekend.
Srivastava also noted a likelihood of light to very light rainfall in parts of Delhi, associated with the thunderstorm activity.
“While the intensity of the rainfall may be low, it will contribute to a temporary cooling effect and offer some respite from the oppressive heat.”
Responding to whether this summer has been hotter than usual, Srivastava said: “Heatwaves are not new to Delhi or North India. We witnessed similar extreme temperatures last year as well. It would not be accurate to say this year is significantly worse; rather, such patterns are becoming increasingly frequent.”
The black box of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed minutes after takeoff from Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, has been recovered from the wreckage of the aircraft.
The black box, technically known as the flight data recorder, is expected to play a vital role in uncovering the cause of the disaster. It contains crucial information such as flight speed, altitude, engine performance, and cockpit audio, including communications between the pilots and air traffic control.
These specialised devices are built to withstand extreme temperatures, water, and severe impact, ensuring the survival of key data even under catastrophic conditions.
Contrary to its name, the black box is typically painted bright orange to make it easier to locate amid the wreckage.
Constructed from highly durable materials like steel and titanium, the device houses two main components: the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). The DFDR logs technical flight parameters, while the CVR captures audio from the cockpit, including pilot discussions and radio exchanges with air traffic control.
In a parallel development, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has also recovered a digital video recorder (DVR) from the wreckage.
Investigators believe this could serve as additional evidence, offering visual insights into the final moments of the crash.
Authorities are now preparing to analyse both the flight recorders and the DVR to piece together a comprehensive timeline of events leading up to the crash.
In a significant lead-up to the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), the Ministry of Ayush is set to host ‘Yoga Connect 2025’, a hybrid global summit, on June 14, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. Centered around the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the summit will bring together an esteemed gathering of yoga practitioners, policymakers, health experts, business leaders, and researchers from India and around the world.
Organized by the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), the event will feature over 1,000 participants attending in person, with many more joining virtually from leading international yoga institutions and wellness communities. Delegates from countries such as Bahrain, the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Korea will be participating, reflecting the growing global influence of India’s yoga movement.
A major highlight of the summit will be the release of the ‘Yoga Prabhava’ report, a comprehensive nationwide study conducted by CCRYN. This report evaluates the impact of the International Day of Yoga over the past decade, offering valuable insights into the reach, effectiveness, and transformative potential of yoga initiatives across the country. It is expected to be a key resource for academicians, public health professionals, and policy researchers.
Alongside this report, the summit will also unveil three important publications. The first is an e-book titled “Decadal Impact of Yoga,” capturing the evolution and influence of yoga in India and abroad over the last ten years. The second is a detailed report on the scientometric analysis of yoga research, providing a data-driven perspective on global yoga scholarship. The third, “Bhartiya Vriksha Vaibhavam,” is an illustrative booklet highlighting the significance of native Indian trees and their ecological and cultural relevance.
The summit will feature a range of thematic sessions addressing yoga’s role in the prevention of non-communicable diseases, research on the Common Yoga Protocol, the impact of IDY, and emerging innovations under the Yoga-Tech domain. Other discussions will explore the applications of yoga in women’s health across life stages, yoga’s growing integration into commerce and industry, and the broader vision of making yoga accessible for all.
Several renowned figures from the yoga world are expected to attend and share their perspectives, including Swami Baba Ramdevji, Acharya Balkrishna, HR Nagendraji, His Holiness Bikkhu Sanghasena, and Sri Bharath Bhushanji. Their participation will add depth to discussions on yoga’s role in enhancing personal wellness and advancing public health.
‘Yoga Connect 2025’ is not just a celebration of yoga’s achievements over the past decade; it is also a forward-looking platform for global collaboration, innovation, and inclusive wellness. The summit marks ten years since the United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, a move that catalyzed India’s global yoga movement. It also commemorates yoga’s recognition by UNESCO as a symbol of India’s intangible cultural heritage.
