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Category: India

  • UPI revolution pushes India to global lead in real-time digital payments

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has firmly established itself as a global leader in real-time digital payments, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at the forefront of this transformation. According to a recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability”, India’s digital infrastructure has become a global benchmark, with UPI now processing over 18 billion transactions each month.

    Launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India, UPI has redefined how Indians send and receive money – bringing together multiple bank accounts in a single mobile app for instant, secure, and low-cost transactions. In June 2025 alone, the platform handled transactions worth over ₹24.03 lakh crore, showing a 32% increase from the same period last year.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India, serving 491 million individuals and 65 million merchants, and connecting 675 banks on a unified platform. Globally, it processes 640 million transactions daily, recently surpassing Visa’s volume, and now powers nearly 50% of all real-time payments worldwide.

    The system has expanded beyond India’s borders and is now live in seven countries, including Singapore, UAE, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and France – marking its first entry into Europe. India is also pushing for UPI’s adoption among BRICS nations, aiming to enhance remittances and financial inclusion on a global scale.

    Backed by strong digital infrastructure, policy vision, and inclusive design, UPI is no longer just a domestic innovation but a model for the world. Its success signals India’s growing stature in global fintech and its commitment to building a cashless, connected, and inclusive digital economy.

  • RRBs reduced from 43 to 28 to simplify management, ease of service delivery: FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The amalgamation of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) has resulted in formation of a state-level RRB with contiguous area of operation leading to simplifying management and ease of service delivery, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday.

    In a written reply to a question on the first day of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session, FM Sitharaman said that guided by the principle of ‘One State-One RRB’, the government continued with the process of further consolidation of RRBs in “Phase IV amalgamation” to achieve the benefits of scale efficiency and cost rationalisation, whereby number of RRBs has been reduced from 43 to 28 (with effect from May 1, 2025) in 26 states and 2 UTs.

    “The RRBs have increased their capital base, enhancing the financial stability and resilience of the merged entity. By consolidating operations and eliminating redundancies on account of separate administrative structures, amalgamation is expected to lead to cost savings,” the finance minister informed.

    Further, amalgamated RRBs can invest in and leverage advanced technology platforms, leading to improved operational efficiency and customer service, she mentioned in her reply in the Lok Sabha.

    The government has constituted state-level monitoring committee (SLMC) and national-level project monitoring unit (NLPMU) to oversee and monitor the implementation of the amalgamation programme.

    “NABARD has issued National Level Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), containing detailed guidelines, which, inter alia, advises setting up of Amalgamation Project Management Unit (APMU), Steering Committee and Functional Committees in every anchor/transferee RRB to finalise the harmonised policies and operational guidelines, and to handle day-to-day integration plan,” the finance minister noted in her reply.

    A study on the impact of amalgamation of RRBs on their financial performance was undertaken by NABARD in 2021 and it was observed that the amalgamation process in the past had resulted in improved viability and financial performance of the RRBs.

    The study revealed that during the different phases of amalgamation, the share of profitable and sustainably viable RRBs improved continuously and the quantum of accumulated losses as a percentage of total assets also declined

    (IANS)

  • UPI transforms everyday life in India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed how millions manage money, making the country a global leader in fast, real-time digital payments. The world is also recognizing the power of Digital India and UPI. A recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability” highlights UPI’s success as a model of public digital infrastructure.

    UPI has made a name for itself in the fintech world. Real-time digital transactions in India now exceed the total of such transactions globally – an achievement that is drawing worldwide attention.

    With over 18 billion transactions monthly, UPI enables seamless money transfers, bill payments, and merchant transactions. Its interoperability allows users across banks and apps to transact effortlessly, fostering innovation and competition in India’s fintech space.

    Before UPI, digital payments in India were limited by closed-loop systems, where transactions can only happen within the same platform. UPI changed this. It connected banks and fintech apps through a common platform. Now, a user can pick any UPI-enabled app and pay someone using another app, without worrying about which bank they use. This is true interoperability in action.

    UPI’s impact is visible in daily life – people can send or receive money 24/7, pay via QR codes, manage multiple accounts in one app, and enjoy fast, secure, and private transactions. Even grievances can be addressed directly through the app.

    This digital shift rests on strong foundations. The Jan Dhan Yojana brought over 55.83 crore people into the banking system. The Aadhaar platform, with over 142 crore cards, enabled secure digital identity. Meanwhile, rapid 5G rollout and low-cost data – dropping from Rs 308/GB in 2014 to just Rs 9.34 – expanded digital access to the remotest corners.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India and has gone global, operating in seven countries and pushing for adoption within the BRICS bloc.

    India’s digital revolution, powered by UPI, is redefining everyday life and setting a new global standard for inclusive and interoperable digital finance.

     

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The plan for the Decade of Science and Technology is aimed at achieving technological leadership

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A meeting of the Coordination Committee for the Decade of Science and Technology was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko. Participants discussed the interim results of the Decade’s initiatives for 2025 and preparations for the V Congress of Young Scientists.

    “The Decade of Science and Technology, announced by President Vladimir Putin, is aimed at strengthening the role of science and technology in solving key development problems of the country. Its main goal is to achieve technological leadership of Russia. To achieve this, a special plan has been developed, which provides for the popularization of modern scientific knowledge and obtaining a real socio-economic effect. One of the main annual events – the Congress of Young Scientists – has been included in the national project “Youth and Children” since this year. The event will traditionally bring together representatives of the scientific community, business leaders, as well as representatives of state and public organizations from Russia and other countries,” said Deputy Prime Minister, Co-Chairman of the Coordination Committee for the Decade of Science and Technology Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Last year, more than 7,000 people from 85 regions of Russia and abroad took part in the Congress of Young Scientists.

    The Decade’s initiatives strengthen the human resources potential of the scientific and technological sphere.

    “Holding the Decade of Science and Technology in Russia is, of course, a very important initiative of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. It is aimed at popularizing scientific achievements and creating conditions for doing science. I believe that the organizers and all participants of the Decade of Science and Technology are, on the whole, successfully coping with these tasks,” said Gennady Krasnikov, President of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Minister of Education and Science Valery Falkov noted that the Decade of Science and Technology forms the correct perception of science and the profession of a scientist. According to surveys, the proportion of parents who welcome their children’s choice of a career in the scientific field is increasing, now there are more than 60%.

    “We also see a growing interest among young people in engineering specialties, which is associated with the extensive work within the Decade of Science and Technology. Compared to 2022, admission to engineering programs in 2024 increased by 7% – from 213 thousand to 228 thousand people,” the minister emphasized.

    Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Denis Sekirinsky reported that scientific volunteering is developing, the study of the legacy of the Soviet scientific school continues, the network of scientific playgrounds for children is expanding – today there are 55 of them in 41 cities in Russia. In the “Science and Innovation” domain, 26 services are available for the research community. In Russia, 12 new routes for popular science tourism have been launched in the regions, and in general, there are 87 of them in the country.

    “Since the beginning of 2025, more than 3,000 events of the Decade of Science and Technology have been held, reaching more than 4 million people. This reflects the scale of the work done and sets a high bar for the second half of the year. The development of existing formats continues, new areas are emerging so that more and more young people see science as an opportunity for professional growth and participation in the future of the country,” he said.

    Sofia Malyavina, Director General, spoke about the work of the operator of the Decade of Science and Technology, ANO National Priorities: “Since the beginning of the Decade of Science and Technology in 2022, we have organized more than a hundred excursions and lectures “Science is Nearby”, created dozens of thematic TV projects and podcasts, and attracted over 100 thousand schoolchildren and students to participate in competitions. Since the beginning of 2025 alone, over 24 thousand publications about science have been published – on television, radio, in the press, and online. Interest in this topic is growing, and our task is to ensure that as many people as possible learn about scientific achievements and the specialists behind them.”

    The head of Rosmolodezh Grigory Gurov noted that the scientific volunteer community consists of more than 60 thousand people, and in 2025, more than 3 thousand volunteers joined it: “Rosmolodezh, together with the “Movement of the First”, is implementing the direction “Science and Technology. “DARE AND DISCOVER”, which helps popularize science among children and young people, including through the flagship project “First in Science”. This year, we plan to launch at least 600 “First” scientific clubs in 30 pilot regions. We support young people who strive to develop in science, we create conditions so that children and young people can implement their ideas and propose innovative projects within the framework of the national project “Youth and Children”, launched on the initiative of the President of Russia.”

    Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President and Head of the Interdepartmental Working Group for the Preparation and Holding of the Congress of Young Scientists and Associated Events, spoke about the preparations for the anniversary V Congress of Young Scientists to be held on November 26–28, 2025.

    “Special attention in 2025 is being paid to expanding the international component of the Congress of Young Scientists – active work is underway to invite foreign scientists from friendly countries to participate in the congress. As part of the international promotion, the congress was presented at external communication platforms, including off-site events and presentation sessions of the SPIEF in Mexico, Turkey, India, and Arab countries. Also this year, the partner of the invitation campaign is Friends for Leadership – an association created following the XIX World Festival of Youth and Students, which operates in 130 countries. As a result of the work, to date, more than 1.6 thousand participants have submitted applications to participate in the congress,” said Anton Kobyakov.

    Among the innovations of the upcoming congress, the Presidential Advisor named the holding of the BRICS Social and Humanitarian Research Forum on the sidelines of the congress. In addition, exhibition clusters dedicated to industry, technological development, healthcare, ecology, and digitalization will be organized within the framework of the congress exhibition.

    The Director General of the State Corporation Rosatom, Alexey Likhachev, spoke about the events of the V Congress of Young Scientists related to the topic of the atom and the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry.

    The Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug Dmitry Artyukhov paid attention to the regional experience of implementing the Decade’s initiatives.

    The director of the National Center “Russia” Natalia Virtuozova spoke about the activities of the National Center “Russia” to implement the tasks of the Decade. According to her, one of the strategic areas was the popularization of science fiction – through exhibition projects, international discussion platforms and educational programs. The flagship of this work was the international symposium “Creating the Future”.

    The head of the Educational Foundation “Talent and Success” Elena Shmeleva, the rector of the Lomonosov Moscow State University Viktor Sadovnichy, the rector of the Presidential Academy Alexey Komissarov put forward a number of proposals for holding projects and events within the framework of the Decade and the Congress of Young Scientists.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Landmine dispute escalates tensions between Thailand and Cambodia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Thailand has accused Cambodia of recently placing landmines in a disputed border area after three soldiers were injured, but Phnom Penh said they had veered off agreed patrol routes and triggered a mine left behind from decades of war.

    Thai authorities made the claim after three soldiers were injured, with one losing a foot, by a landmine explosion while on a routine patrol on July 16 on the Thai side of the disputed border area between Ubon Ratchathani and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province.

    Cambodia’s Defence Ministry denied that new mines had been planted, saying in a statement on Sunday the soldiers had strayed from agreed patrol routes into areas that contain unexploded landmines. The country is littered with landmines laid during decades of war.

    Thailand’s army said on Monday that 10 freshly laid Russian-made PMN-2 type landmines, which are not used or stockpiled by Thailand, were found between July 18 and July 20 in areas near where the soldiers were injured.

    “This is a clear violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Thailand and an outright breach of principles that are fundamental to international law,” Maratee Nalita Andamo, deputy spokesperson for the Thai Foreign Ministry, said on Monday in Bangkok.

    Data from the Cambodia Mine Action Centre, which estimates there are still 4 to 6 million landmines scattered across the country, shows five people were killed and a dozen injured by mines and unexploded ordnance in Cambodia in the first four months of 2025.

    The area where the mine exploded is near where a Cambodian soldier was killed in May after a brief exchange of gunfire between troops on both sides.

    The incident has flared into a broader diplomatic dispute between the Southeast Asian neighbours that has destabilised the Thai government and seen the Prime Minister suspended from office.

    Thailand said it will issue a formal condemnation and call for accountability from Cambodia for breaching the anti-landmine convention under the Ottawa Treaty, and the army will also increase vigilance during border patrols.

    (Reuters)

  • Parliament Monsoon Session: Lok Sabha adjourned till 2pm

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Lok Sabha was adjourned until 2 PM on Monday following uproar by Opposition MPs demanding a discussion on the recent Pahalgam terror attack and the government’s response through Operation Sindoor.

    The House convened at 11 AM but was first adjourned until noon after Opposition members disrupted proceedings, insisting on a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the developments surrounding the attack and Operation Sindoor.

    Expressing his disappointment at the disruptions, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appealed to members to maintain decorum and allow discussions to proceed.

    “This is the Question Hour, and the government is willing to discuss every issue. The House should function, and discussions must take place as per the rules and procedures,” Birla said.

    Despite his appeal, continued sloganeering by Opposition members forced the Speaker to adjourn the House again until 2 PM.

    When the House reconvened, protests resumed after the officiating Speaker informed members that Speaker Om Birla had not granted assent to any of the adjournment motions.

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue, “The government is completely ready for discussion on any issue.”

    Responding to the ongoing disruptions, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said, “A meeting of the Business Advisory Committee will be held at 2:30 PM to finalise the agenda for discussion. The government is ready, but they (Opposition MPs) are protesting in the Well of the House. This is not the right way to begin the Monsoon Session.”

    Following the adjournment, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressed concern over being denied the opportunity to speak, “The question is – why is the Defence Minister allowed to speak in the House while Opposition members, including me as LoP, are not? This is a new approach. Conventionally, if ministers can speak, the Opposition should also be allowed.”

    Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed the sentiment, stating, “If the government is truly ready for discussion, then they should let the Leader of the Opposition speak. He stood up to speak, and he should be allowed to do so.”

    Meanwhile, BJP MP Baijayant Panda tabled the Report of the Select Committee on the Income Tax Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. The report contains 285 recommendations aimed at overhauling the existing six-decade-old legislation.

    The Monsoon session will run until August 21, with a break scheduled between August 12 and August 18. A total of 21 sittings are planned over the 32-day period.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • PM Modi opens Parliament’s Monsoon Session with call for unity, hails Operation Sindoor as symbol of national pride

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Monsoon Session of Parliament, calling it a “true celebration of victory” and a moment of collective national pride. Addressing the media outside Parliament, the Prime Minister highlighted recent achievements across defence, science, economy, and digital governance, urging unity among lawmakers to strengthen the nation’s resolve.

    Calling the monsoon a symbol of “renewal and rejuvenation,” PM Modi pointed to favourable weather conditions and record-high water reservoir levels—three times the ten-year average—as indicators of a strong agricultural and rural economic outlook.

    “This Monsoon Session is a moment of great pride for the country,” he said, referring to the recent unfurling of the Indian tricolour aboard the International Space Station. He described the milestone as a unifying moment for both Houses of Parliament and an inspiration for India’s youth in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.

    PM Modi praised the success of Operation Sindoor, India’s precision strike targeting terrorist camps. “Our armed forces achieved their mission with 100 percent success, neutralizing high-value targets within 22 minutes,” he said. He attributed this precision and efficiency to India’s growing defence self-reliance, highlighting global recognition of ‘Made in India’ military technology.

    The Prime Minister called on Parliament to come together in a unified tribute to the operation, stating that such solidarity would boost defence sector innovation, manufacturing, and employment for India’s youth.

    On the internal security front, PM Modi spoke about the decline of terrorism, Naxalism, and Maoism. He noted that many districts once dominated by insurgency have now transformed into “Green Growth Zones,” underscoring the growing influence of constitutional order over violence.

    He also highlighted India’s rise from being among the “Fragile Five” economies in 2014 to being on the cusp of becoming the world’s third-largest economy. He noted that 250 million people have risen out of poverty during the past decade, and emphasized that inflation—currently around 2 percent—has stabilized the cost of living for citizens.

    Turning to digital achievements, the Prime Minister lauded the widespread adoption of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which he described as a symbol of India’s leadership in the global fintech landscape. He said UPI has now become a recognized name worldwide.

    Citing data from the International Labour Organization, PM Modi noted that more than 900 million Indians are now covered under social security. He also highlighted India’s successful eradication of trachoma, as declared by the World Health Organization, describing it as a key milestone in the nation’s public health journey.

    Addressing the recent Pahalgam terror attack, PM Modi credited a united response by MPs across party lines for exposing Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terrorism at the global level. “This cross-party effort strengthened our diplomatic campaign and helped the world understand India’s position,” he said.

    As the session got underway, the Prime Minister made a final appeal for unity among MPs. “While political opinions may vary, our intentions in matters of national interest must remain aligned,” he said. Modi urged all Members of Parliament to carry forward the spirit of “one voice” in championing India’s sovereignty, development, and aspirations.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/BANGLADESH – Political and social tensions as the country heads toward general elections

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Dhaka (Agenzia Fides) – Clashes between supporters of political parties have once again created social instability in Bangladesh. Tensions have flared in recent days in the city of Gopalganj, south of Dhaka, where members of the Awami League, the party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has fled abroad, attacked the march of activists from the National Citizen Party, the student party that officially presented itself to voters in early 2025.Following the clashes in Gopalganj, the government imposed a curfew to regain control of the situation, while four people died and 13 were injured in clashes with police.Social tensions are flaring up again as the country nears the finish line of the next general elections, which the interim government Muhammad Yunus, after considerable domestic and international pressure, has announced will be held in April 2026.Sheikh Hasina is currently in India and has been tried for the repression of protesters during the student protests that, in August 2024, brought an end to her 15-year rule. Hasina has been accused of ordering police to fire on protesters (there were numerous casualties), while the exiled leader maintains that the accusations against her are politically motivated.Meanwhile, the Awami League has been banned in Bangladesh, pending the outcome of the trial. The party was barred from participating in the elections after the Election Commission suspended its registration. The measure has exacerbated social polarization and tensions.Meanwhile, the consequences of the collapse of the industrial sector are being felt in the country, with a significant drop in foreign investment, steadily rising inflation, and ever-rising costs for basic goods. “A sense of frustration is growing among people, which could have repercussions in the voting process,” notes a local Fides source in the Catholic community.In a country with 170 million inhabitants, the vast majority of whom are Muslim, Christians and other religious minorities have expressed concern about the return of radical Islamic parties to the political scene. Indeed, Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has overturned the ban on the country’s main Muslim party, which for more than ten years had been relegated to the margins of society by the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Jamaat-e-Islami will now be able to participate in the next general elections and is preparing to broaden its base of political consensus. The danger, highlighted especially by civil society organizations and associations, is the influence that Islamist parties could have on the country’s future government. Therefore, the interim government has been asked to complete the process of constitutional reforms before the elections, defining an institutional and legal framework based on the principles of democracy, pluralism, and equality. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 19/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Knee injury ends Reddy’s England tour, Arshdeep out of Manchester test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s bowling attack suffered a double blow on Monday when Nitish Kumar Reddy was ruled out of the remainder of their tour of England due to a knee injury while fellow seamer Arshdeep Singh will also miss the fourth test in Manchester.

    India’s board (BCCI) did not share details of Reddy’s injury but cricket news website ESPNcricinfo reported the 22-year-old had damaged a ligament while training in the gym on Sunday.

    The bowling all-rounder, who played in two of the three tests so far in England, would be returning to India, the BCCI added.

    Arshdeep’s wait for a test debut goes on after the 26-year-old suffered a hand injury, and right-arm pacer Anshul Kamboj has been drafted into the squad as cover.

    “He sustained an impact injury to his left thumb while bowling in the nets at a training session in Beckenham,” the BCCI said in a statement.

    “The BCCI medical team is monitoring his progress.”

    With seamer Akash Deep nursing a groin issue, India could be left with no choice but to play pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in the Manchester test beginning on Wednesday.

    India had planned to limit Bumrah’s workload after the pacer had back surgery early this year, and he was due to be available for only one of the remaining two tests.

    England lead the five-match series 2-1.

    (Reuters)

  • India’s GDP to grow at 6.5% in FY26; inflation expected to average 4%: Crisil

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to grow at 6.5% in the current fiscal year (FY26), driven by improving domestic consumption and other positive indicators, according to a report released by Crisil on Monday.

    The Crisil Intelligence near-term outlook highlighted global uncertainty stemming from US tariff actions as the primary risk to India’s growth. However, it noted that the economy is likely to be supported by an above-normal monsoon, income tax relief, and the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) rate cuts.

    GDP growth accelerated to 7.4% year-on-year in the fourth quarter of FY25, up from 6.4% in the previous quarter. Overall, GDP grew by 6.5% in FY25.

    The report also pointed to a significant decline in inflation, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation falling to 2.1% in June – its lowest in 77 months – driven by negative food inflation.

    “Given the current inflation trajectory, an above-normal monsoon forecast, and expectations of soft global oil and commodity prices, we project average CPI inflation to ease to 4% this fiscal, down from 4.6% last fiscal,” the report stated.

    Crisil also anticipates one more repo rate cut by the RBI this fiscal, followed by a pause.

    “The MPC cut the policy rate by 100 basis points between February and June 2025. Its shift in stance from accommodative to neutral in June reflects the front-loading of rate cuts and a data-dependent approach going forward,” it said. The 100 bps Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut will be implemented in four tranches between September and November 2025.

    On the fiscal front, the Union Budget has targeted a reduction in the central government’s fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP this fiscal, down from 4.8% in FY25.

    Gross market borrowing is estimated at ₹14.8 lakh crore for this fiscal – 5.8% higher year-on-year – with 54% of the budgeted borrowing planned for the first half of the fiscal, the report added.

    As of May, the fiscal deficit stood at 0.8% of the full-year budget target, significantly lower than the 3.1% recorded in the same period last fiscal. This was attributed to higher revenue receipts and lower revenue expenditure.

    The report further projects India’s current account deficit (CAD) to average 1.3% of GDP in FY26, compared to 0.6% in the previous fiscal year.

    (IANS)

  • When you butcher civilians, you don’t get pass but justice: US House Committee on TRF ban

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The US House Committee on Foreign Affairs has strongly backed the recent designation of The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), emphasising that the group’s violent actions warrant international condemnation and justice, not leniency.

    Posting on its official handle on X, the committee stated: “President Trump calls it like it is. The Resistance Front is a foreign terrorist organization and deserves the designation. When you butcher civilians, you don’t get a pass—you get JUSTICE.”

    The remarks came after the US Department of State officially designated TRF, a proxy of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as both a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).

    The group claimed responsibility for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were brutally killed in one of the deadliest attacks on Indian soil since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

    In its official statement, the US Department of State said: “The Department of State is adding The Resistance Front (TRF) as a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). TRF, a Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) front and proxy, claimed responsibility for the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians. This was the deadliest attack on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks conducted by LeT. TRF has also claimed responsibility for several attacks against Indian security forces, including most recently in 2024.”

    The department emphasised that these actions reflect the Trump Administration’s commitment to national and global security.

    “These actions taken by the Department of State demonstrate the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting our national security interests, countering terrorism, and enforcing President Trump’s call for justice for the Pahalgam attack.”

    The TRF designation comes amid increasing international pressure on Pakistan to curb terror groups operating from its soil. India has long accused Pakistan of sheltering and supporting LeT and its front organisations, including TRF, which emerged in 2019 as a shadow group to avoid international scrutiny.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi shares article commending progress in Meghalaya

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared an article highlighting progress made by the state of Meghalaya.

    In response to an article shared by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, PM Modi said on X, “Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlights Meghalaya’s remarkable transformation driven by tourism, youth empowerment, women-led SHGs, initiatives like the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the Vibrant Village Programme and more. With strong government support and vibrant community spirit, the state stands as a blueprint for a resilient and self-reliant India.”

    In her article, FM Sitharaman highlighted Meghalaya’s remarkable progress across infrastructure, youth empowerment, agriculture, and cultural preservation – from smooth highways connecting Guwahati to Shillong, to the scenic Umiam Lake being developed as a world-class tourism hub under the SASCI scheme.

    FM Sitharaman said that her visits to local Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) revealed a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, with Meghalaya’s farmers and women leaders turning into business owners. The export of pineapples to Dubai and the cultivation of shitake mushrooms with Japanese collaboration are just a few indicators of agricultural innovation.

    She added that the heritage conservation is also thriving in Meghalaya. In the village of Siej, community members are preserving the iconic living root bridges, with efforts underway for UNESCO World Heritage recognition. Her journey culminated in Sohbar and Cherrapunji (Sohra), where vibrant border villages and institutions like the Ramakrishna Ashram embody a blend of tradition, service, and self-reliance.

    The visit reaffirmed Meghalaya’s position as a beacon of inclusive development, where community spirit and government initiatives together are building a confident, sustainable, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

  • VP & Chairman Rajya Sabha calls for bonhomie among the political parties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>Suggestions for improvement is not condemnation or criticism, parties must engage in constructive politics, appeals VP
    Politics is not confrontation; I cannot visualise a political party being against the concept of Bharat-VP
    Have mutual respect, don’t trade unbecoming language on television, avoid personal attacks, urges VP
    Isn’t it tiring to the ears? Our ears are fed up, aren’t they? —VP on bitterness on TV debates
    We can have differences of opinion, we can have disagreements but how can we have bitterness in our hearts? -VP
    Hope for meaningful and serious deliberations in upcoming session, says VP

    Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today calling for bonhomie and mutual respect amongst the political parties stated, “I appeal to everyone in the political spectrum — please have mutual respect. Please don’t trade unbecoming language on television or otherwise against the leadership of one party or the other. This culture is not our civilizational essence. We have to be careful with our language…..Avoid personal attacks. I appeal to politicians. Time for us to stop calling politicians names. It does no good to our culture when, in various political parties, people take on senior people of other political parties and call them names.

    We must have an absolute sense of decorum, mutual respect — and that is the demand of our culture. We otherwise cannot have unity in our thought process…..Trust me, if political dialogue takes place at a higher level if leaders mingle more frequently. They have greater discourse among themselves. They exchange ideas at an individual level — interest of the nation will be served……. Why should we fight amongst ourselves? Let us not look for enemies within. Every Indian political party and every parliamentarian, to my knowledge, is a nationalist at the end of the day. He believes in the nation. He believes in the progress of the nation…….Democracy is never of a kind where the same party will ever come to power. We have seen in our lifetime, the change takes place at state level, at panchayat level, at municipal level, that’s a democratic process. But one thing is for sure, there has to be continuity of development, continuity of our civilisational ethos, and that comes only from one aspect. We must respect democratic culture.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1946933500747354215

    “A thriving democracy, friends, cannot afford an atmosphere of constant acrimony…..Your mind must be disturbed when you find political acrimony, when you find political atmosphere in a different direction. I urge everyone in the country that political temperature must be brought down. Politics is not confrontation, politics can never be unidirectional. There will be different political thought processes but politics means achieving the same object but somehow in different ways. I strongly believe no person in this country will think against the nation. I cannot visualise a political party being against the concept of Bharat. They may have different ways, different thinking; but they must learn to discuss with each other, have dialogue with each other. Confrontation is not a way out. When we fight amongst ourselves, even in the political arena, we are strengthening our enemy. We are giving them enough material to divide us. Therefore, young minds are a great pressure group. You have very strong power. Your thought process will control the politician, your parliamentarian, your legislator, your corporator. Think of the nation. Think of the development”, he added.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1946931973399990494

    Addressing the inaugural programme for the eighth batch of participants of the Rajya Sabha Internship Programme (RSIP) at the Vice-President’s Enclave today, Shri Dhankhar underlined, “ Let us not have politics when there is national interest, let us not have politics over development, let us not have politics when it comes to the growth of the nation. Let us not have politics when it is an issue of national security, national concern and that can happen because India has to stand proud amongst the comity of nations. We are well regarded in the world. The very idea that Bharat can be controlled from outside goes against our claim. We are a nation, a sovereign nation. Why should our political agenda be set by forces that are inimical to Bharat? Why should our agenda be even influenced by our enemies?”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1946927630928007516

    Drawing attention towards the bitterness among the political parties being reflected on  television debates he stated, “ Every political party has matured leadership. Every political party, big or small, has commitment towards national development and therefore duty of the youth to ensure this mindset. This thought process must come in social media and once you will find our television debates soothing, positive, appealing, just imagine how much change can come — just take a moment to observe. What do we usually see? What do we hear? Isn’t it tiring to the ears? Our ears are fed up, aren’t they? Brother, why is it like this? We come from a great culture. There is a foundation to our ideology. We can have differences of opinion — we can have disagreements — but how can we have bitterness in our hearts? We are Indians. What does our culture teach us? Anantavad — the belief in endless dialogue. What does Anantavad mean? It means discussion and debate. What does discussion and debate mean? It means expression. And expression means — speak your thoughts freely, but do not become so convinced of your own opinion that you believe it to be the final and absolute truth. Don’t assume that no one else can possibly have a different point of view than yours.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1946932657591562485

    Highlighting the need for meaningful discussions in the upcoming monsoon session of the Parliament, Shri Dhankhar said, “ We must be resilient. We must believe in our point of view. But we must also have respect for the other point of view. If we believe in our point of view and think, “I am the only one who is right, and everyone else is wrong” — that is not democracy. That is not our culture. That is ego. That is arrogance. We must control our ego. We must control our arrogance. We must try to understand why the other person holds a different point of view — that is our culture. What has India historically been known for? Discourse, dialogue, debate, deliberation. These days, we do not see all this happening in Parliament. I assume the upcoming session will be an important one. I have every hope that there will be meaningful discussions and serious deliberations that will take Bharat to greater heights. It is not that everything is perfect. We will never live in times where everything is perfect. There will always be some shortcomings in certain areas at any given time. And there is always room for improvement. If someone gives a suggestion to improve something, it is not condemnation. It is not a criticism. It is only a suggestion for further development. Therefore, I appeal to political parties to engage in constructive politics. And when I say this, I appeal to all parties — those on the treasury benches, the ruling party, and the opposition parties.”

  • PM Modi hails Operation Sindoor as ‘Vijay Utsav’, urges unified salute to armed forces in Parliament

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed Operation Sindoor as a “Vijay Utsav” (victory celebration) for the nation, describing it as a shining testament to the strength and precision of the Indian Armed Forces. Speaking to the media ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the Prime Minister called for a united parliamentary tribute to the operation’s success, which he said would further encourage national defence capabilities and inspire citizens across the country.

    “This Monsoon Session is a ‘Vijay Utsav’,” PM Modi said. “The entire world has witnessed the strength of the Indian Armed Forces. The objective set for Operation Sindoor was achieved with 100 percent success. In just 22 minutes, our forces neutralised terrorists in their own hideouts.”

    The Prime Minister recounted how the operation had first been announced during an event in Bihar and praised the ‘Made in India’ defence initiative, stating that it is now drawing increasing global interest.

    “The ‘Made in India’ defence systems showcased during the operation reflect a new era of India’s military self-reliance. Whenever I interact with leaders of other countries, there is growing curiosity and appreciation for Indian-made weapons,” he noted.

    PM Modi expressed hope that Parliament will engage in meaningful discussion on Operation Sindoor during the ongoing session. He emphasized that a unified expression of national pride by lawmakers would not only bolster the morale of the armed forces but also foster innovation, manufacturing, and job creation in the defence sector.

    “When the House expresses its sentiments on this ‘Vijay Utsav’ with one voice, it will strengthen India’s defence resolve, encourage innovation, and create employment opportunities for the youth,” he said.

    Highlighting another moment of national pride, the Prime Minister also recalled the recent milestone of Indian astronaut Subhanshu Shukla aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where the Indian Tricolour was unfurled for the first time.

    “This session is a celebration of victory and pride. The image of our national flag on the ISS has filled every Indian with joy and pride. It has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among the youth toward science, technology, and innovation,” he said, calling it a historic chapter in India’s space journey.

    PM Modi also touched on the importance of the monsoon, calling it a symbol of “renewal and rejuvenation.” He noted that the current monsoon conditions are progressing positively and will benefit agriculture, farmers, and the broader rural economy.

    “The favourable monsoon is set to boost the agricultural sector, strengthen the farmers’ economy, and contribute to national growth,” he added.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 Pre-orders Match S25 Series, Setting New Benchmark for Flagships in India

    Source: Samsung

    JB Park, President and CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia
     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced that it’s recently-launched – Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy ZFlip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE smartphones – have received record pre-orders, signaling huge consumer demand and excitement for the brand’s seventh generation of foldable smartphones. Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy ZFlip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE secured 210,000 pre-orders in the first 48 hours, breaking previous records, and nearly equaling the pre-orders received for Galaxy S25 series earlier this year.
     
    “The record pre-orders for our ‘made in India’ foldable smartphones reinforce our belief that young Indian consumers are quick to adopt latest technology. Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers our most advanced smartphone experience yet – powerful, immersive, intelligent, and portable all in one. Galaxy Z Flip7 adapts, anticipates and empowers users, unlocking a smarter, more intuitive way to engage with the world. Powered by the new One UI 8 and Android 16 right out of the box, the new devices deliver true multimodal AI experiences. The success of the new devices are a stepping stone for our larger goal – the mainstreaming of foldable smartphones in India,” said JB Park, President and CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia.
     
    Galaxy Z Fold7 seamlessly blends precision engineering and powerful intelligence to elevate everyday interactions – all in its thinnest and lightest design to date. At just 215 grams, Galaxy Z Fold7 is even lighter than Galaxy S25 Ultra. It is just 8.9 mm thick when folded and 4.2 mm thick when unfolded. It delivers the premium performance and experience of an ultra smartphone, while unlocking new levels of efficiency and productivity with a larger, more immersive display when unfolded.
     
    Galaxy Z Flip7, a compact AI phone with multimodal capabilities, is powered by a new FlexWindow. Small enough to slip into a pocket, yet powerful enough to deliver the handiest assistance, it melds Galaxy AI with a new edge-to-edge FlexWindow, a flagship level camera and an ultra-compact and iconic design. From intuitive voice AI to the best selfie capabilities, Galaxy Z Flip7 is an intelligent pocket-sized companion built for seamless interaction and everyday reliability. Weighing just 188 grams and measuring only 13.7mm when folded, Galaxy Z Flip7 is the slimmest Galaxy Z Flip yet.
     
    While Galaxy Z Fold7 is available in stunning colours such as Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow and Jet Black; the Galaxy Z Flip7 comes in Blue Shadow, Jet Black and Coral Red. Galaxy Z Flip 7FE comes in Black and White colours. Apart from this, consumers buying the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 through Samsung.com will have an additional colour to choose from – Mint.
     
    Both devices bring multimodal AI capabilities, delivering experiences that maximize the benefits of the expansive foldable display of the Galaxy Z Fold7 to boost productivity.  Designed as a true multimodal agent, One UI 8 seamlessly combines large-screen multitasking with intelligent tools that understand what users’ type, say and even see. Thanks to Google’s Gemini Live, users can share their screen in real time while speaking with the AI assistant — enabling contextual requests based on what’s visible. In addition, One UI 8 brings enhanced privacy to personalized AI experiences with the new Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP). KEEP creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments within the device’s secures storage area, ensuring each app can access only its own sensitive information and nothing more.
     
    The main display on Galaxy Z Fold7 is 11% larger than the previous generation. The 8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display offers ultra-rich contrast, true blacks and vibrant detail that makes everything pop. It also gets Vision Booster and up to 2,600 nits of peak brightness.
     
    The Armor FlexHinge on Galaxy Z Fold7 is thinner and lighter, thanks to an enhanced water droplet design and newly implemented multi-rail structure that reduces visible creasing. The cover display is made with Corning® Gorilla® Glass Ceramic 2, a new glass ceramic that has crystals intricately embedded within its glass matrix. Advanced Armor Aluminum in the frame and hinge housing increases strength and hardness by 10%. The main display is restructured to be thinner and lighter — yet stronger. This was achieved by implementing the Titanium plate layer. Additionally, Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) was increased to be 50% thicker, making the display tougher.
     
    Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, Galaxy Fold7 delivers stupendous performance boosts of 41% in NPU, 38% in CPU, and 26% in GPU compared to the previous generation. This power fuels Galaxy Z Fold7’s ability to process more AI experiences on-device without compromise. In addition, with the first 200MP wide-angle camera in the Galaxy Z series, it captures 4x more detail, producing images that are 44% brighter. In addition, Samsung’s next-generation ProVisual Engine processes images faster.
     
    Galaxy Z Flip7 comes with a stunning FlexWindow display, which brings essentials front and center and makes it easy to type out quick messages. The 4.1-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flip7, with edge-to-edge usability that enables users to see and do more on the cover screen. With 2,600 nits of peak brightness, the FlexWindow gets an upgrade with Vision Booster, enhancing outdoor visibility so users can stay connected wherever they are. The main display is a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, built for an ultra-smooth, immersive experience.
     
    The cover and back of Galaxy Z Flip7 are protected by Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2. The Armor FlexHinge is thinner than the hinge on the previous generation and features a restructured design and high-strength materials for smoother folds and long-lasting durability. A robust Armor Aluminum Frame provides a tough exterior for resilience. The 4,300mAh battery is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flipdelivering up to 31 hours of video play time on a single charge.
     
    Galaxy Z Flip7 FE features a 6.7-inch Main Display for an immersive viewing experience. The 50MP FlexCam enables high-quality selfies and video in Flex Mode, letting users capture content hands-free, without even opening the device.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology Graduates 383 Students

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    In its 18th commencement, Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology graduated 383 students, including 44% female graduates, in degree and diploma programs yesterday, 19 July.

    The degree program graduates include 13 in Agricultural Engineering, 26 in Chemical Engineering, 30 in Civil Engineering, 39 in Computer Science and Technology, 27 in Electrical and Electronics Technology, 27 in Mechanical Technology, and 28 in Mining Technology.

    The diploma program graduates include 23 in Automotive Technology, 28 in Computer Application, 18 in Computer Technology and Networking, 13 in Construction Technology, 23 in Electrical Technology, 24 in Electronics Technology, 26 in Mining Technology, 11 in Surveying, and 11 in Cooling System Technology.

    Dr. Araya Zeray, Dean of the College, stated that since its establishment in 2004, the College has been providing higher education in eight fields of study in degree programs and nine in diploma programs, significantly contributing to the production of professionals who play a vital role in the country’s economic development.

    Dr. Araya further noted that the College has 79 academic staff members—44 foreigners and 35 nationals. He also mentioned that as part of ongoing staff development efforts, 18 staff members are currently pursuing master’s and PhD programs abroad in Russia, China, India, Hungary, and Japan.

    A representative of the graduates, commending the support of parents, lecturers, and the college community, expressed their commitment to live up to the expectations of the Government and people who provided them with the opportunity for higher education.

    The honorary guest, Mr. Abraha Asfaha, Minister of Public Works, underlined the significance of engineering and technology in national economic development and called on the graduates to apply their knowledge practically in their respective workplaces.

    Since its establishment, Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology has graduated 7,671 students in degree and diploma programs.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Microsoft alerts businesses, governments to server software attack

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Microsoft has issued an alert about “active attacks” on server software used by government agencies and businesses to share documents within organizations, and recommended security updates that customers should apply immediately.

    The FBI said on Sunday it is aware of the attacks and is working closely with its federal and private-sector partners, but offered no other details.

    In an alert issued on Saturday, Microsoft said the vulnerabilities apply only to SharePoint servers used within organizations. It said that SharePoint Online in Microsoft 365, which is in the cloud, was not hit by the attacks.

    “We’ve been coordinating closely with CISA, DOD Cyber Defense Command and key cybersecurity partners globally throughout our response,” a Microsoft spokesperson said, adding that the company had issued security updates and urged customers to install them immediately.

    The Washington Post, which first reported the hacks, said unidentified actors in the past few days had exploited a flaw to launch an attack that targeted U.S. and international agencies and businesses.

    The hack is known as a “zero day” attack because it targeted a previously unknown vulnerability, the newspaper said, quoting experts. Tens of thousands of servers were at risk.

    In the alert, Microsoft said that a vulnerability “allows an authorized attacker to perform spoofing over a network.” It issued recommendations to stop the attackers from exploiting it.
    Microsoft has issued an alert about “active attacks” on server software used by government agencies and businesses to share documents within organizations, and recommended security updates that customers should apply immediately.

    The FBI said on Sunday it is aware of the attacks and is working closely with its federal and private-sector partners, but offered no other details.

    In an alert issued on Saturday, Microsoft said the vulnerabilities apply only to SharePoint servers used within organizations. It said that SharePoint Online in Microsoft 365, which is in the cloud, was not hit by the attacks.

    “We’ve been coordinating closely with CISA, DOD Cyber Defense Command and key cybersecurity partners globally throughout our response,” a Microsoft spokesperson said, adding that the company had issued security updates and urged customers to install them immediately.

    The Washington Post, which first reported the hacks, said unidentified actors in the past few days had exploited a flaw to launch an attack that targeted U.S. and international agencies and businesses.

    The hack is known as a “zero day” attack because it targeted a previously unknown vulnerability, the newspaper said, quoting experts. Tens of thousands of servers were at risk.

    In the alert, Microsoft said that a vulnerability “allows an authorized attacker to perform spoofing over a network.” It issued recommendations to stop the attackers from exploiting it.

    In a spoofing attack, an actor can manipulate financial markets or agencies by hiding the actor’s identity and appearing to be a trusted person, organization or website.

    Earlier, Microsoft said it is working on updates to 2016 and 2019 versions of SharePoint. If customers cannot enable recommended malware protection, they should disconnect their servers from the internet until a security update is available, it added.
    In a spoofing attack, an actor can manipulate financial markets or agencies by hiding the actor’s identity and appearing to be a trusted person, organization or website.

    Earlier, Microsoft said it is working on updates to 2016 and 2019 versions of SharePoint. If customers cannot enable recommended malware protection, they should disconnect their servers from the internet until a security update is available, it added.

  • Owen shines on debut as Australia beat Windies in first T20

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mitchell Owen made an impressive debut as Australia beat West Indies by three wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match Twenty20 International series in Jamaica on Sunday.

    Owen took a wicket with his medium pace bowling before returning to smash 50 off 27 balls as Australia chased down a 190-run target with seven balls to spare.

    West Indies, who lost the preceding test series 3-0, got off to a strong start after being put into bat at Sabina Park.

    Captain Shai Hope (55), Roston Chase (60) and Shimron Hetmyer (38) laid the platform for a 200-plus score but the late flourish they expected never materialised.

    Andre Russell, who will quit international cricket after the second T20 on Tuesday, made only eight.

    Australia’s Ben Dwarshuis (4-36) mowed down the middle and lower order as West Indies were forced to settle for a modest 189-8.

    While Australia lost both their openers, captain Mitchell Marsh and Jake Fraser-McGurk, inside the powerplay they were propped up by a breezy 80-run stand by Cameron Green (51) and Owen.

    Green belted five sixes in his 26-ball blitz, while Owen smacked six of them before holing out in the 17th over with Australia on the cusp of victory.

    (Reuters)

  • ECB to host next three World Test Championship finals till 2031, ICC says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will continue to host the biennial final of the World Test Championship for the next three editions till 2031, global governing body ICC said on Sunday.

    The match, which crowns the world champions in the longest format of the sport, has been held in England since it was introduced, with Southampton hosting the first edition in 2021 and the two subsequent finals taking place in London.

    “We are absolutely delighted that England and Wales has been chosen to host the next three ICC World Test Championship finals,” the ECB chief executive Richard Gould said.

    “It’s a testament to the passion that fans in this country have for this treasured format of the game and the willingness of supporters from around the world to travel here for these games.”

    The 2025 final at Lord’s, where South Africa beat defending champions Australia, was attended by 109,227 people over four days and received 225 million digital views, the ICC said in a statement last month.

    “Hosting these finals is a privilege, and we look forward to working with the ICC to build on the success of the previous editions,” Gould added.

    (Reuters)

     

  • Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

    Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

    Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

    The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

    Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

    Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

    The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

    The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

  • Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

    Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

    Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

    The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

    Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

    Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

    The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

    The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

  • Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

    Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

    Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

    The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

    Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

    Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

    The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

    The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

  • All decisions in this country, a sovereign nation, are taken by its leadership-VP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>There is no power on the planet to dictate India how to handle its affairs-VP
    We work in tandem, we have mutual respect, diplomatic dialogues. But at the end of the day, we are sovereign, we take our own decisions-VP
    Is it required to have wrestling sessions as to who said what?, VP expresses concern
    Our object is not to just simply grow our economy, Our object is to develop the people-VP
    Vice-President Addresses Officer Trainees of the Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) 2024 Batch

    Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that, “Don’t be guided by narratives outside. All decisions in this country, a sovereign nation, are taken by its leadership. There is no power on the planet to dictate India how to handle its affairs. We do live in a nation and nations that are a comity. We work in togetherness, we work in tandem. We have mutual respect, diplomatic dialogues. But at the end of the day, we are sovereign, we take our own decisions.”

    https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946559722725007704

    He underlined, “Is it required to play every bad ball? Is it required to have wrestling sessions as to who said what? One who scores good runs on the cricket pitch always leaves bad balls. They are tempting, but not attempted. And those who attempt, you have safe gloves of the wicket keeper and someone in the gully.”

    “There will be challenges. Challenges will be to create divisiveness. For example, we have seen global conflagrations — two of them in particular, you know them. These have become open-ended. Look at the devastation of property, human lives, and their misery. And look at our calibration. We taught a lesson — taught it well. We chose Bahawalpur and Muridke, and then brought it to a temporary conclusion. ‘Operation Sindoor’ is not over — it continues. Some people ask the question — why was it stopped? We are a nation that believes in peace, nonviolence, a land of Buddha, Mahavira, and Gandhi. We do not wish to kill even living beings — how can we target human beings? The idea was to generate sanity, to generate a sense of humanity in the others”, he added.

    https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946562875889463711

    Addressing the officer trainees of Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) 2024 batch at the Vice-President’s Enclave today, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ Our demographic dividend is a global envy. 65% of our population is below 35 years of age. The median age of this country is 28, whereas that of China and the U.S. is around 38–39, and Japan, 48. Now, you are the chosen ones. You’ve got the opportunity to serve Bharat, home to one-sixth of humanity. And look at the area of your working. If you commit yourself, keeping into view our civilizational ethos, we are a unique nation. No nation can boast or claim to be closer to us — five thousand years of heritage, culture, legacy, knowledge, wisdom, repository. In such a situation — eighteen lakh acres? If you engage — which you are engaging, your seniors are engaging — you can define to the entire country, how to manage the estates, how to manage ecology, how to manage the environment, how to raise herbal gardens, what is sustainable development, how to protect and how to use modern technology.”

    “One aspect about which I am slightly concerned. Development, civilian development, close to the proximity of your states, requires your sanction. That sanction often gets into the domain of discretion and suffers delay. I would urge — evolve a mechanism or a protocol. Let people know about it — what height they can have. Why should the system come into play? With the kind of technology we have, we should be fully aware. Why can’t we put it on one platform? This is the area — if your building is coming up here, height will be this. Yet agencies have to be hired. People have to pay for it. Delay takes place. Now you can take the lead. You will earn the goodwill of the people around”, he added.

    https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946560846785917408

    Expressing his concern over rising coaching centres in the country he stated, “Coaching is needed for skill. Coaching is needed to make you self-dependent. If for a limited number of seats, all over the country there are coaching centers vying with one another for advertisement space in newspapers. Not one — one page, two pages, three pages, sometimes four pages in a row. And what a spectacle — putting you boys and girls in photographs. No, this is not Bharat. We can’t have commodification and commercialisation. We have to believe in Gurukul. You have to come out of — youth has to come out of the silos. You have to know the opportunities elsewhere. Those opportunities are also very necessary for the development of the nation….I am not against anyone, but why should coaching become an integral part of education? After more than three decades, the nation has been blessed after getting input from stakeholders in hundreds of thousands, National Education Policy. Why coaching? Coach has to improve your skill. We can’t have people cramming and then getting through. We want thinking minds to get in and go there. Always bear that in mind”. 

    https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946561334973460885

    Talking about ‘Viksit Bharat’ he stated, “ Our object is not to just simply grow our economy. Our object is to develop the people. Viksit Bharat is not our dream. It is not even our destination now. We are marching in that direction. Every day we are progressing towards that direction, and that’s a big challenge because 10 years of phenomenal development has given the people a taste of development. People of my generation never believed…there will be a toilet in the house, a gas connection in the house, internet connection, piped water, roads close by, school or health center, such world-class trains to travel. No. We never imagined. So the nation now has become globally the most aspirational nation in the world.”

    https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946550260601606602

    Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary, Govt. of India, Shri S.N. Gupta, Director General, Defence Estates, Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Director, NIDEM and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

  • Sensex, Nifty open flat amid India-US trade deal uncertainty

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened on a cautious note Monday, as uncertainty surrounding the India-US trade deal weighed on investor sentiment and capped early gains.

    The Nifty rose 30.60 points, or 0.12 per cent, to open at 24,999, while the Sensex added 160.80 points, or 0.20 per cent, to start at 81,918.53. However, both indices quickly gave up their gains. By 9:20 am, the Sensex had slipped 50 points, or 0.05 per cent, to 81,714, and the Nifty was down 17 points, or 0.07 per cent, at 24,951.

    Analysts attribute the weak start to investor unease over the lack of progress in the fifth and latest round of India-US trade negotiations.

    “The failure to reach a breakthrough in the trade talks is pushing countries to pursue multilateral FTAs to reduce reliance on the US,” said Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert. “The final signing of the India-UK FTA this week will symbolize a broader shift towards multilateralism in a post-Pan-Americana world.”

    India and the UK had concluded negotiations on their FTA in May. Bagga stressed the need for India to deepen trade ties through new and existing FTAs, especially with ASEAN countries, where current terms favor imports over exports.

    Adding to the market pressure are concerns over a lackluster Q1 earnings season and ongoing uncertainty around US tariff policies. A potential US-India tariff deal is being closely watched as a possible trigger for market recovery.

    Another factor influencing sentiment is the flood of primary market activity. With several large IPOs and qualified institutional placements (QIPs) lined up, investors are diverting funds away from the secondary market. Promoters and private equity firms continue to dilute stakes, adding to the supply overhang.

    Meanwhile, a potentially positive development could emerge on the policy front. The NITI Aayog has reportedly recommended allowing automatic approvals for Chinese investments of up to 24 per cent in Indian companies, a move that could revive Chinese capital inflows and signal India’s openness to alternatives beyond the US.

    On the NSE, all major broad-market indices were under pressure. The Nifty 100 dropped 0.13 per cent, Nifty Midcap 100 slipped 0.10 per cent, and Nifty Smallcap 100 fell by 0.10 per cent.

    Sectorally, only Nifty Media, Nifty Metal, and Nifty Realty showed gains. The rest lagged, with Nifty Auto down 0.37 per cent, Nifty FMCG lower by 0.32 per cent, Nifty IT falling 0.67 per cent, and Nifty PSU Bank declining the most, by 0.70 per cent.

    “The Nifty 50 did not perform well last week, ending down by 181 points. Back-to-back bearish candles indicate that sellers are in control, which could push prices further down,” said Sunil Gurjar, SEBI-registered analyst and founder of Alphamojo Financial Services. “A breakdown below 25,250 would signal a strong downtrend. The 24,650 level could act as crucial support. If breached, it may confirm further downside. That said, prices remain above key moving averages, hinting at underlying strength.”

    (With inputs from ANI)
    @918920982302

  • Over three lakh perform Amarnath Yatra in 18 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 300,000 yatris have undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra in the 18 days since it began on July 3. With 20 days still left for the yatra’s conclusion on August 9, the figure is likely to exceed the official estimate of 3.5 lakh this year.

    Officials said that as of Sunday, 3.07 lakh pilgrims had ‘darshan’ inside the holy cave shrine.

    “Another batch of 3,791 yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas today for the Valley in two escorted convoys. The first convoy of 52 vehicles carrying 1,208 yatris to the Baltal base camp left at 3:33 a.m., while the second convoy of 96 vehicles carrying 2,583 yatris to the Pahalgam base camp left at 4:06 a.m.,” officials said.

    J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), visited the Baltal base camp on Sunday. The L-G chaired a meeting of officials to review the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the yatra. He had lunch with the yatris at one of the ‘Langars’ at Baltal and also interacted with them. The L-G expressed satisfaction with both the security and other arrangements made for the yatra.

    This year, the Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on July 10. The Chhari Mubarak was taken to Pahalgam by a group of seers led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its seat at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.

    In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple, where the Bhumi Pujan was held. It was then taken back to its seat at the Dashnami Akhara building. It will begin its final journey towards the cave shrine from the Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the yatra.

    Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, as this takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. An additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and the local police. The Army has deployed over 8,000 specially trained commandos to secure the passage of the yatris.

    This year, the yatra started on July 3 and will end after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Yatris approach the holy cave shrine, situated 3,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, from either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot over four days. Those using the shorter Baltal route trek 14 km to reach the shrine and can return to the base camp the same day after having darshan.

    No helicopter services are available to yatris this year due to security reasons.

    The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe the structure symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

    (IANS) 

  • Calm reported in Syria’s Sweida, Damascus says truce holding

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Residents reported calm in Syria’s Sweida on Sunday after the Islamist-led government announced that Bedouin fighters had withdrawn from the predominantly Druze city and a U.S. envoy signalled that a deal to end days of fighting was being implemented.

    With hundreds reported killed, the Sweida bloodshed is a major test for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, prompting Israel to launch airstrikes against government forces last week as it declared support for the Druze.Fighting continued on Saturday despite a ceasefire call.

    Interior Minister Anas Khattab said on Sunday that internal security forces had managed to calm the situation and enforce the ceasefire, “paving the way for a prisoner exchange and the gradual return of stability throughout the governorate”.

    Reuters images showed interior ministry forces near the city, blocking the road in front of members of tribes congregated there. The Interior Ministry said late on Saturday that Bedouin fighters had left the city.

    U.S. envoy Tom Barrack said the sides had “navigated to a pause and cessation of hostilities”. “The next foundation stone on a path to inclusion, and lasting de-escalation, is a complete exchange of hostages and detainees, the logistics of which are in process,” he wrote on X.

    Kenan Azzam, a dentist, said there was an uneasy calm but the city’s residents were struggling with a lack of water and electricity. “The hospitals are a disaster and out of service, and there are still so many dead and wounded,” he said by phone.

    Another resident, Raed Khazaal, said aid was urgently needed. “Houses are destroyed … The smell of corpses is spread throughout the national hospital,” he said in a voice message to Reuters from Sweida.

    The Syrian state news agency said an aid convoy sent to the city by the government was refused entry while aid organised by the Syrian Red Crescent was let in. A source familiar with the situation said local factions in Sweida had turned back the government convoy.

    Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported on Sunday that Israel sent urgent medical aid to the Druze in Sweida and the step was coordinated with Washington and Syria. Spokespeople for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Foreign Ministry and the military did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

    The Druze are a small but influential minority in Syria, Israel and Lebanon who follow a religion that is an offshoot of a branch of Shi’ite Islam. Some hardline Sunnis deem their beliefs heretical.

    The fighting began a week ago with clashes between Bedouin and Druze fighters. Damascus sent troops to quell the fighting, but they were drawn into the violence and accused of widespread violations against the Druze.

    Residents of the predominantly Druze city said friends and neighbours were shot at close range in their homes or in the streets by Syrian troops, identified by their fatigues and insignia.

    Sharaa on Thursday promised to protect the rights of Druze and to hold to account those who committed violations against “our Druze people”.

    He has blamed the violence on “outlaw groups”.

    While Sharaa has won U.S. backing since meeting President Donald Trump in May, the violence has underscored the challenge he faces stitching back together a country shattered by 14 years of conflict, and added to pressures on its mosaic of sectarian and ethnic groups.

    COASTAL VIOLENCE

    After Israel bombed Syrian government forces in Sweida and hit the defence ministry in Damascus last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had established a policy demanding the demilitarisation of territory near the border, stretching from the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to the Druze Mountain, east of Sweida.

    He also said Israel would protect the Druze.

    The United States however said it did not support the Israeli strikes. On Friday, an Israeli official said Israel agreed to allow Syrian forces limited access to the Sweida area for two days.

    A Syrian security source told Reuters that internal security forces had taken up positions near Sweida, establishing checkpoints in western and eastern parts of the province where retreating tribal fighters had gathered.

    On Sunday, Sharaa received the report of an inquiry into violence in Syria’s coastal region in March, where Reuters reported in June that Syrian forces killed 1,500 members of the Alawite minority following attacks on security forces.

    The presidency said it would review the inquiry’s conclusions and ensure steps to “bring about justice” and prevent the recurrence of “such violations”. It called on the inquiry to hold a news conference on its findings – if appropriate – as soon as possible.

    The Syrian Network for Human Rights said on July 18 it had documented the deaths of at least 321 people in Sweida province since July 13. The preliminary toll included civilians, women, children, Bedouin fighters, members of local groups and members of the security forces, it said, and the dead included people killed in field executions by both sides.

    The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, another monitoring group, has reported a death toll of at least 940 people.

    Reuters could not independently verify the tolls.

    (Reuters)

  • Japan’s shaky government loses upper house control

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japan’s ruling coalition lost control of the upper house in an election on Sunday, further weakening Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s grip on power even as he vowed to remain party leader, citing a looming tariff deadline with the United States.

    While the ballot does not directly determine whether Ishiba’s administration will fall, it heaps pressure on the embattled leader who also lost control of the more powerful lower house in October.

    Ishiba’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner Komeito returned 47 seats, short of the 50 seats it needed to ensure a majority in the 248-seat upper chamber in an election where half the seats were up for grabs.

    That comes on top of its worst showing in 15 years in October’s lower house election, a vote which has left Ishiba’s administration vulnerable to no-confidence motions and calls from within his own party for leadership change.

    Speaking late on Sunday evening after exit polls closed, Ishiba told NHK he “solemnly” accepted the “harsh result”.

    “We are engaged in extremely critical tariff negotiations with the United States…we must never ruin these negotiations. It is only natural to devote our complete dedication and energy to realizing our national interests,” he later told TV Tokyo.

    Asked whether he intended to stay on as premier, he said “that’s right”.

    Japan, the world’s fourth largest economy, faces a deadline of August 1 to strike a trade deal with the United States or face punishing tariffs in its largest export market.

    The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party finished second with 22 seats.

    Meanwhile, the far-right Sanseito party announced its arrival in mainstream politics, adding 14 seats to one elected previously. Launched on YouTube a few years ago, the populist party found wider appeal with its ‘Japanese First’ campaign and warnings about a “silent invasion” of foreigners.

    ‘HAMMERED HOME’

    Opposition parties advocating for tax cuts and welfare spending struck a chord with voters, as rising consumer prices – particularly a jump in the cost of rice – have sowed frustration at the government’s response.

    “The LDP was largely playing defence in this election, being on the wrong side of a key voter issue,” said David Boling, a director at consulting firm Eurasia Group.

    “Polls show that most households want a cut to the consumption tax to address inflation, something that the LDP opposes. Opposition parties seized on it and hammered that message home.”

    The LDP has been urging fiscal restraint, with one eye on a very jittery government bond market, as investors worry about Japan’s ability to refinance the world’s largest debt pile. Any concessions the LDP must now strike with opposition parties to pass policy will only further elevate those nerves, analysts say.

    “The ruling party will have to compromise in order to gain the cooperation of the opposition, and the budget will continue to expand,” said Yu Uchiyama, a politics professor at the University of Tokyo.

    “Overseas investors’ evaluation of the Japan economy will also be quite harsh.”

    Sanseito, which first emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic spreading conspiracy theories about vaccinations and a cabal of global elites, is among those advocating fiscal expansion.

    But it is its tough talk on immigration that has grabbed attention, dragging once-fringe political rhetoric into the mainstream.

    It remains to be seen whether the party can follow the path of other far-right parties with which it has drawn comparisons, such as Germany’s AfD and Reform UK.

    “I am attending graduate school but there are no Japanese around me. All of them are foreigners,” said Yu Nagai, a 25-year-old student who voted for Sanseito earlier on Sunday.

    “When I look at the way compensation and money are spent on foreigners, I think that Japanese people are a bit disrespected,” Nagai said after casting his ballot at a polling station in Tokyo’s Shinjuku ward.

    Japan, the world’s fastest aging society, saw foreign-born residents hit a record of about 3.8 million last year.

    That is still just 3% of the total population, a much smaller fraction than in the United States and Europe, but comes amid a tourism boom that has made foreigners far more visible across the country.

    (Reuters)

  • Parliament’s Monsoon Session to begin today amid opposition heat over Operation Sindoor, electoral roll row

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Monsoon Session of Parliament is set to begin on Monday, marking the first sitting since Operation Sindoor, India’s precision airstrikes targeting terror camps in Pakistan in the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address both Houses before proceedings officially commence.

    The session, running from July 21 to August 21, will include 21 sittings over 32 days. Both Houses will be adjourned from August 12 to August 17 for Independence Day celebrations and reconvene on August 18.

    This session is set against a tense political backdrop, with the Opposition demanding answers on several key national issues. Chief among them is Operation Sindoor, launched following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, most of them tourists. The Opposition is pressing for a detailed statement from the Prime Minister and clarity on the operation’s strategic objectives and aftermath. Additionally, it has called on the government to respond to U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of mediating peace between India and Pakistan — a claim New Delhi has consistently denied.

    Another issue expected to dominate the debate is the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Opposition parties have raised concerns over the timing and transparency of the exercise, alleging that it is a politically motivated move to influence the upcoming state elections. The government has denied these allegations, stating that the revision is part of routine electoral procedures.

    Despite these contentious matters, the government is prepared to push ahead with an ambitious legislative agenda. Several key bills are slated for introduction, including legislation on GST reforms, amendments to taxation laws, public trust regulation, sports governance, ports and minerals management, and the preservation of geo-heritage sites. A parliamentary panel report on the proposed Income Tax Bill, 2025, is also scheduled to be tabled in the Lok Sabha, signaling a possible overhaul of the country’s tax framework.

    Adding to the already weighty agenda, Parliament is also expected to take up a proposal concerning the removal of a judge, further heightening political sensitivities during the session.

    In a high-level all-party meeting held on Sunday, chaired by Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, 54 leaders from 40 political parties discussed the agenda and key concerns for the session. Rijiju reiterated the government’s commitment to discussing all issues of national importance, including Operation Sindoor, within the rules and conventions of Parliament.

    “We are very open to a discussion on important issues like Operation Sindoor. These are issues of great national importance. The government is not shying away and will never shy away, but is open to discussions within rules and conventions,” said Rijiju.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Ceasefire Holds in Syria After Deadly Sectarian Clashes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A tenuous ceasefire has taken hold in Syria’s Suwayda province after a week of sectarian violence between Druze fighters, Bedouin tribes, and government forces, which killed over 800 people, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). Announced by President Ahmed al-Sharaa on July 19, the truce is holding, with security forces deployed to enforce peace and oversee the withdrawal of Bedouin fighters from Suwayda city. The conflict began on July 13, triggered by the abduction of a Druze merchant on the Damascus highway, escalating tensions in the Druze-majority province. Government forces, accused of siding with Bedouin fighters and committing abuses against Druze civilians, intensified the clashes. Israel responded with airstrikes on Syrian military targets, citing protection of the Druze minority.

    A US-brokered ceasefire between Syria and Israel on July 18, followed by al-Sharaa’s comprehensive truce, has shown progress. Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri endorsed the agreement, calling for safe passage for Bedouin fighters and humanitarian aid for civilians. While earlier ceasefires failed, the latest has seen Bedouin fighters leave Suwayda city, with security checkpoints established.

    Skepticism persists among some Druze leaders, wary of the government’s Sunni Islamist leanings. The UN and international actors, including the US and EU, welcomed the ceasefire but urged accountability for reported atrocities, including executions. The violence displaced many, with Suwayda’s hospitals overwhelmed, reporting over 300 casualties since last Monday.

    Israel targeted the Syrian Defense Ministry headquarters and a site near the presidential palace, marking a rare escalation. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of ‘painful blows’ if Syrian forces did not withdraw from the south President al-Sharaa’s interim government, in power since ousting Bashar al-Assad in 2024, faces challenges in unifying Syria’s diverse groups. The ceasefire’s success depends on enforcing security and addressing sectarian grievances to prevent further unrest.

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on July 18, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 7,138.57 5.28 4.50-6.30
         I. Call Money 1,238.40 5.11 4.75-5.40
         II. Triparty Repo 3,345.50 5.22 5.00-5.30
         III. Market Repo 140.12 4.76 4.50-5.00
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,414.55 5.47 5.40-6.30
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 15,023.65 5.35 4.75-5.45
         II. Term Money@@ 596.00 – 5.35-5.70
         III. Triparty Repo 3,98,881.50 5.31 5.20-5.43
         IV. Market Repo 1,84,937.94 5.36 5.00-5.60
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/07/2025 7 Fri, 25/07/2025 2,00,027.00 5.49
    3. MSF# Fri, 18/07/2025 1 Sat, 19/07/2025 151.00 5.75
      Fri, 18/07/2025 2 Sun, 20/07/2025 0.00 5.75
      Fri, 18/07/2025 3 Mon, 21/07/2025 800.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 18/07/2025 1 Sat, 19/07/2025 1,13,210.00 5.25
      Fri, 18/07/2025 2 Sun, 20/07/2025 0.00 5.25
      Fri, 18/07/2025 3 Mon, 21/07/2025 3,380.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -3,15,666.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       6,150.48  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     6,150.48  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -3,09,515.52  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks          
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 18, 2025 9,91,739.51  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending July 25, 2025 9,63,288.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 18, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on June 27, 2025 5,79,904.00  

    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.

    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.

    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.

    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.

    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/744

    MIL OSI Global Banks –