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Category: India

  • Turkey blocks X’s Grok chatbot for alleged insults to Erdogan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A Turkish court has blocked access to Grok, the artificial intelligence chatbot developed by the Elon Musk-founded company xAI, after it generated responses that authorities said included insults to President Tayyip Erdogan.

    Issues of political bias, hate speech and accuracy of AI chatbots have been a concern since at least the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, with Grok dropping content accused of antisemitic tropes and praise for Adolf Hitler.

    The office of Ankara’s chief prosecutor has launched a formal investigation into the incident, it said on Wednesday, in Turkey’s first such ban on access to an AI tool.

    Neither X nor its owner Elon Musk has commented on the decision.

    Last month, Musk promised an upgrade to Grok, suggesting there was “far too much garbage in any foundation model trained on uncorrected data”.

    Grok, which is integrated into X, reportedly generated offensive content about Erdogan when asked certain questions in Turkish, media said.

    The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) adopted the ban after a court order, citing violations of Turkey’s laws that make insults to the president a criminal offence, punishable with up to four years in jail.

    Critics say the law is frequently used to stifle dissent, while the government maintains it is necessary to protect the dignity of the office.

    (Reuters)

  • Indian NBFCs to clock 25 pc growth in education loan assets in FY26 amid US uncertainties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    For non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) in India, education loans have been the fastest-growing asset class, clocking over 50 per cent growth in the assets under management (AUM) over the past few years, a report said on Wednesday. This fiscal (FY26), growth is seen moderating to 25 per cent with AUM reaching Rs 80,000 crore.

    The pace is likely to halve this fiscal as disbursements for pursuing educational courses in the US decelerate following a raft of policy changes in that country, according to the report by Crisil Rating.

    To mitigate the impact, NBFCs are diversifying into new geographies and product adjacencies. While non-performing assets (NPAs) have remained stable so far, asset quality will be monitorable given the global uncertainties and a large proportion of AUM (85) remaining under contractual principal moratorium, the report mentioned.

    The education loan AUM of NBFCs grew a rapid 48 per cent to Rs 64,000 crore last fiscal. That followed an even faster 77 per cent growth in fiscal 2024.

    “Policy uncertainties in the US, combined with measures including reduced visa appointments and the proposed elimination of Optional Practical Training norms have culled newer loan originations. This has led to a 30 per cent decline in total disbursements to that geography last fiscal,” said Malvika Bhotika, Director, Crisil Ratings.

    Disbursements linked to even Canada, the second-largest market, fell as student visa rules turned stricter, including increased financial requirements via proof of available funds, and cap on permits.

    “Consequently, overall education loan disbursements were up only 8 per cent in fiscal 2025, compared with 50 per cent in fiscal 2024, Bhotika mentioned.

    To offset these headwinds, NBFCs have sharpened focus on other geographies.

    Disbursements linked to courses in the UK, Germany, Ireland and smaller countries have doubled in the past fiscal as students opted for alternative destinations.

    The share of such geographies in total disbursements rose to almost 50 per cent in fiscal 2025 from 25 per cent a year ago.

    NBFCs are also looking at domestic student loans and adjacencies such as school funding, loans for skill development, certification and coaching. Given the lower ticket sizes of such loans, their share in the overall portfolio is unlikely to be material, but they may lend some stability in times of global uncertainties.

    “The ability of NBFCs to scale up and maintain asset quality in some of the newer domestic products will bear watching as well,” said Sonica Gupta, Associate Director, Crisil Ratings. Moreover, the agility of the NBFCs to navigate the complexities of the global landscape, characterised by uncertainty and change in preferences of students, will be crucial for sustained growth and success.

    (IANS)

  • Indian NBFCs to clock 25 pc growth in education loan AUM in FY26 amid US uncertainties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    For non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) in India, education loans have been the fastest-growing asset class, clocking over 50 per cent growth in the assets under management (AUM) over the past few years, a report said on Wednesday. This fiscal (FY26), growth is seen moderating to 25 per cent with AUM reaching Rs 80,000 crore.

    The pace is likely to halve this fiscal as disbursements for pursuing educational courses in the US decelerate following a raft of policy changes in that country, according to the report by Crisil Rating.

    To mitigate the impact, NBFCs are diversifying into new geographies and product adjacencies. While non-performing assets (NPAs) have remained stable so far, asset quality will be monitorable given the global uncertainties and a large proportion of AUM (85) remaining under contractual principal moratorium, the report mentioned.

    The education loan AUM of NBFCs grew a rapid 48 per cent to Rs 64,000 crore last fiscal. That followed an even faster 77 per cent growth in fiscal 2024.

    “Policy uncertainties in the US, combined with measures including reduced visa appointments and the proposed elimination of Optional Practical Training norms have culled newer loan originations. This has led to a 30 per cent decline in total disbursements to that geography last fiscal,” said Malvika Bhotika, Director, Crisil Ratings.

    Disbursements linked to even Canada, the second-largest market, fell as student visa rules turned stricter, including increased financial requirements via proof of available funds, and cap on permits.

    “Consequently, overall education loan disbursements were up only 8 per cent in fiscal 2025, compared with 50 per cent in fiscal 2024, Bhotika mentioned.

    To offset these headwinds, NBFCs have sharpened focus on other geographies.

    Disbursements linked to courses in the UK, Germany, Ireland and smaller countries have doubled in the past fiscal as students opted for alternative destinations.

    The share of such geographies in total disbursements rose to almost 50 per cent in fiscal 2025 from 25 per cent a year ago.

    NBFCs are also looking at domestic student loans and adjacencies such as school funding, loans for skill development, certification and coaching. Given the lower ticket sizes of such loans, their share in the overall portfolio is unlikely to be material, but they may lend some stability in times of global uncertainties.

    “The ability of NBFCs to scale up and maintain asset quality in some of the newer domestic products will bear watching as well,” said Sonica Gupta, Associate Director, Crisil Ratings. Moreover, the agility of the NBFCs to navigate the complexities of the global landscape, characterised by uncertainty and change in preferences of students, will be crucial for sustained growth and success.

    (IANS)

  • Broadband subscribers in India cross 944 million, up 2.17% in FY 25: TRAI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The number of broadband subscribers rose to 944.12 million in India, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) data showed on Tuesday.

    TRAI released its “Indian Telecom Services – Yearly Performance Indicators Report” for 2024–25, offering a detailed overview of India’s telecom and broadcasting sectors from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.

    India’s internet subscribers rose to 969.10 million from 954.40 million at the end of March 2025, the Ministry of Communications said in a statement. Broadband connections accounted for 944.12 million, registering a 2.17% growth, while narrowband users declined sharply by 17.66% to 24.98 million.

    Mobile Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) saw a notable increase of 16.89%, rising from ₹149.25 to Rs 174.46. Prepaid ARPU rose, while postpaid ARPU marginally declined.

    Total wireless data usage jumped 17.46% to 2,28,779 Petabytes (PB), and data revenue grew 15.49% to Rs 2.15 lakh crore. The number of wireless data users also rose to 939.51 million.

    India’s total telephone subscriber base grew marginally by 0.13% to 1,200.80 million. However, overall teledensity slipped from 85.69% to 85.04%. While urban subscriptions increased slightly, urban teledensity declined by 1.70%. Rural subscriptions also rose, but rural teledensity saw a minor dip.

    Wireless subscribers fell by 0.73%, with a net loss of 8.5 million users. Wireline connections, however, surged by 9.62% to 37.04 million, boosting wireline teledensity from 2.41% to 2.62%.

    The sector’s Gross Revenue (GR) grew by 10.72% to Rs 3.72 lakh crore, while Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) rose 12.02% to Rs 3.03 lakh crore. Spectrum Usage Charges and license fees also recorded significant increases.

    In the broadcasting sector, India had 918 permitted private satellite TV channels as of March 2025, with 333 pay channels (232 SD and 101 HD). Pay DTH subscribers declined to 56.92 million, down from 61.97 million the previous year.

    There were 388 operational private FM radio stations across 113 cities, operated by 33 broadcasters after a recent merger. Community Radio Stations also saw growth, increasing from 494 to 531.

    The full report is available on TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in).

  • Germany move closer to Euro 2025 knockouts with 2-1 win over Denmark

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Germany’s Sjoeke Nuesken and Lea Schueller struck in the second half to fire the eight-times champions to the verge of the Euro 2025 quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Denmark on Tuesday that left the Danes on the brink of an early exit.

    Trailing 1-0 in a game in which two key VAR decisions in the first half went against them, Germany finally got on the scoresheet when they were awarded a penalty in the 56th minute. Nuesken stepped up and calmly slotted her spot-kick into the bottom corner.

    Schueller put the Germans ahead 10 minutes later after a failed clearance by Denmark landed at the Bayern Munich forward’s feet and she swept it into the far corner.

    “This is a victory of mentality, we knew it was going to be tight, we were very happy we were able to turn it around,” Germany coach Christian Wueck said. “It was the mentality, they really wanted to win, so we love to take that away with us.”

    Germany had celebrated what they thought was the opening goal by Klara Buehl but boos rang around the packed St Jakob-Park stadium when it was ruled offside.

    That seemed to halt Germany’s momentum and Amalie Vangsgaard struck for Denmark in the 26th minute when she took a touch before unleashing a shot from a tight angle past Ann-Katrin Berger.

    Germany thought they had won a penalty earlier when the referee whistled and pointed to the spot because of a Denmark handball but VAR determined it was outside the box, prompting more boos from the German fans.

    The Germans will secure their quarter-final place if Poland fail to beat Sweden in Tuesday’s late Group C game.

    Germany defeated Poland in their tournament opener but it came at a heavy cost as captain Giulia Gwinn suffered a knee injury that ended her tournament. Banners of support for the absent skipper dotted the crowd on Tuesday.

    Although Gwinn’s loss was huge, the team’s collective strength enabled them to come from behind after trailing at halftime for only the fourth time in Euros history, as they cranked up the intensity in the second half, finishing the game with 27 shots to Denmark’s five.

    Germany have dominated the Euros since they won the competition for the first time as West Germany in 1989. They lost 2-1 to England in the 2022 final, but have been rebuilding after suffering a shock exit in the group stage of the 2023 World Cup. Denmark had lost to neighbours Sweden in their opener.

    “I think our performance is good in general for a team working extremely hard, but it’s a very good German team,” Denmark coach Andree Jeglertz said.

    “It’s about winning and taking points, and I’m very disappointed that we don’t manage to keep the result, or at least get a point in the end.”

    (Reuters)

  • Germany move closer to Euro 2025 knockouts with 2-1 win over Denmark

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Germany’s Sjoeke Nuesken and Lea Schueller struck in the second half to fire the eight-times champions to the verge of the Euro 2025 quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Denmark on Tuesday that left the Danes on the brink of an early exit.

    Trailing 1-0 in a game in which two key VAR decisions in the first half went against them, Germany finally got on the scoresheet when they were awarded a penalty in the 56th minute. Nuesken stepped up and calmly slotted her spot-kick into the bottom corner.

    Schueller put the Germans ahead 10 minutes later after a failed clearance by Denmark landed at the Bayern Munich forward’s feet and she swept it into the far corner.

    “This is a victory of mentality, we knew it was going to be tight, we were very happy we were able to turn it around,” Germany coach Christian Wueck said. “It was the mentality, they really wanted to win, so we love to take that away with us.”

    Germany had celebrated what they thought was the opening goal by Klara Buehl but boos rang around the packed St Jakob-Park stadium when it was ruled offside.

    That seemed to halt Germany’s momentum and Amalie Vangsgaard struck for Denmark in the 26th minute when she took a touch before unleashing a shot from a tight angle past Ann-Katrin Berger.

    Germany thought they had won a penalty earlier when the referee whistled and pointed to the spot because of a Denmark handball but VAR determined it was outside the box, prompting more boos from the German fans.

    The Germans will secure their quarter-final place if Poland fail to beat Sweden in Tuesday’s late Group C game.

    Germany defeated Poland in their tournament opener but it came at a heavy cost as captain Giulia Gwinn suffered a knee injury that ended her tournament. Banners of support for the absent skipper dotted the crowd on Tuesday.

    Although Gwinn’s loss was huge, the team’s collective strength enabled them to come from behind after trailing at halftime for only the fourth time in Euros history, as they cranked up the intensity in the second half, finishing the game with 27 shots to Denmark’s five.

    Germany have dominated the Euros since they won the competition for the first time as West Germany in 1989. They lost 2-1 to England in the 2022 final, but have been rebuilding after suffering a shock exit in the group stage of the 2023 World Cup. Denmark had lost to neighbours Sweden in their opener.

    “I think our performance is good in general for a team working extremely hard, but it’s a very good German team,” Denmark coach Andree Jeglertz said.

    “It’s about winning and taking points, and I’m very disappointed that we don’t manage to keep the result, or at least get a point in the end.”

    (Reuters)

  • Joao Pedro brace sends Chelsea into Club World Cup final

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Joao Pedro kept the celebrations to a minimum after scoring twice to send Chelsea into the Club World Cup final, his goals proving the undoing of his former club Fluminense in a bittersweet meeting at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

    The 23-year-old Brazilian forward, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion six days ago, found the net in the 18th minute with a superb strike and again early in the second half with another excellent finish to seal his team’s 2-0 victory and passage to the final.

    He held his hands up apologetically after each strike against the club where he spent his formative years, even as his teammates swarmed around him on the pitch, only briefly cracking a smile after the second goal.

    “They (Fluminense) gave everything to me. They showed me to the world. If I’m here, it’s because they believed in me,” said Pedro.

    “I’m very grateful but this is football – I have to be professional. I feel sorry for them but I have to do my job.”

    Pedro made his debut for Chelsea in their 2-1 quarter-final win over Palmeiras on Friday with only a couple training sessions under his belt. Four days later, he was in the starting team.

    “Today I think because I started, I had more time to do my stuff and I had to score. The team won, the team played well and that’s important,” he added in televised remarks.

    Pedro joined a month after Chelsea signed Liam Delap, as the club moved to plug a forward shortage.

    Chelsea face the winner of the second semi-final on Wednesday between Paris St Germain and Real Madrid. The final is set for Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

    (Reuters)

  • Joao Pedro brace sends Chelsea into Club World Cup final

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Joao Pedro kept the celebrations to a minimum after scoring twice to send Chelsea into the Club World Cup final, his goals proving the undoing of his former club Fluminense in a bittersweet meeting at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

    The 23-year-old Brazilian forward, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion six days ago, found the net in the 18th minute with a superb strike and again early in the second half with another excellent finish to seal his team’s 2-0 victory and passage to the final.

    He held his hands up apologetically after each strike against the club where he spent his formative years, even as his teammates swarmed around him on the pitch, only briefly cracking a smile after the second goal.

    “They (Fluminense) gave everything to me. They showed me to the world. If I’m here, it’s because they believed in me,” said Pedro.

    “I’m very grateful but this is football – I have to be professional. I feel sorry for them but I have to do my job.”

    Pedro made his debut for Chelsea in their 2-1 quarter-final win over Palmeiras on Friday with only a couple training sessions under his belt. Four days later, he was in the starting team.

    “Today I think because I started, I had more time to do my stuff and I had to score. The team won, the team played well and that’s important,” he added in televised remarks.

    Pedro joined a month after Chelsea signed Liam Delap, as the club moved to plug a forward shortage.

    Chelsea face the winner of the second semi-final on Wednesday between Paris St Germain and Real Madrid. The final is set for Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

    (Reuters)

  • Joao Pedro brace sends Chelsea into Club World Cup final

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Joao Pedro kept the celebrations to a minimum after scoring twice to send Chelsea into the Club World Cup final, his goals proving the undoing of his former club Fluminense in a bittersweet meeting at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

    The 23-year-old Brazilian forward, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion six days ago, found the net in the 18th minute with a superb strike and again early in the second half with another excellent finish to seal his team’s 2-0 victory and passage to the final.

    He held his hands up apologetically after each strike against the club where he spent his formative years, even as his teammates swarmed around him on the pitch, only briefly cracking a smile after the second goal.

    “They (Fluminense) gave everything to me. They showed me to the world. If I’m here, it’s because they believed in me,” said Pedro.

    “I’m very grateful but this is football – I have to be professional. I feel sorry for them but I have to do my job.”

    Pedro made his debut for Chelsea in their 2-1 quarter-final win over Palmeiras on Friday with only a couple training sessions under his belt. Four days later, he was in the starting team.

    “Today I think because I started, I had more time to do my stuff and I had to score. The team won, the team played well and that’s important,” he added in televised remarks.

    Pedro joined a month after Chelsea signed Liam Delap, as the club moved to plug a forward shortage.

    Chelsea face the winner of the second semi-final on Wednesday between Paris St Germain and Real Madrid. The final is set for Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

    (Reuters)

  • Sweden reach Euro 2025 knockouts with 3-0 win over Poland

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Sweden subjected Poland to an all-out aerial attack, scoring three headed goals in a 3-0 win to reach the knockout stages of the women’s European Championship, with captain Kosovare Asllani playing the role of air traffic controller throughout.

    The mercurial 35-year-old sent an early looping header bouncing off the woodwork before teeing up Stina Blackstenius to open the scoring.

    She then netted a header herself after the break, with Lina Hurtig adding a third from a corner as the Swedes guaranteed a top-two spot in Group C and a place in the next round. They will face Germany in their final group game on Saturday to decide who finishes top.

    “The plan was to attack through the flanks and through the wings, because we knew we would have a lot of space there, so we tried to attack, and got a lot of crosses in,” Asllani told Reuters.

    “The first goal, I waited one second extra, waited for their defenders to move, for me to chip it in to Stina. So it’s three headers, three beautiful goals, the three points.”

    The Swedes never relented, pushing down the wings throughout the game.

    “We had seen clips where they are centred themselves a lot, so it felt natural for us to go wide and work from there. It worked for the whole game, so we just kept going at it,” midfielder Filippa Angeldahl told Reuters.

    “We’ll go through Germany and we’ll take a lot of things with us from today. Obviously we’re strong in the box and we want to get in the box as much as possible.”

    With Poland and Denmark now eliminated, it remains to be seen whether the Swedes will adopt the same tactics against Germany when the two sides battle it out in Zurich, and Asllani had a steely look when asked what the plan would be.

    “We want to win the group. That’s clear,” she said.

    (Reuters)

     

  • India’s internet subscribers cross 969 million in FY25, driven by broadband growth: TRAI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s internet subscriber base grew by 1.54% in the financial year 2024–25, rising from 954.40 million in March 2024 to 969.10 million in March 2025, according to data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on Tuesday.

    The growth was primarily driven by an increase in broadband subscribers, which rose from 924.07 million to 944.12 million, marking a 2.17% year-on-year gain.

    In contrast, narrowband subscriptions declined by 17.66%, falling from 30.34 million to 24.98 million during the same period.

    The report, titled Indian Telecom Services – Yearly Performance Indicators, also noted a 16.89% increase in mobile Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), which climbed from ₹149.25 to ₹174.46. While prepaid ARPU saw a notable rise, postpaid ARPU recorded a slight decline.

    Total wireless data usage jumped 17.46% to 2,28,779 Petabytes (PB), and data revenue grew 15.49% to Rs 2.15 lakh crore. The number of wireless data users also rose to 939.51 million.

    India’s total telephone subscriber base grew marginally by 0.13% to 1,200.80 million. However, overall teledensity slipped from 85.69% to 85.04%. While urban subscriptions increased slightly, urban teledensity declined by 1.70%. Rural subscriptions also rose, but rural teledensity saw a minor dip.

    Wireless subscribers fell by 0.73%, with a net loss of 8.5 million users. Wireline connections, however, surged by 9.62% to 37.04 million, boosting wireline teledensity from 2.41% to 2.62%.

    The sector’s Gross Revenue (GR) grew by 10.72% to Rs 3.72 lakh crore, while Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) rose 12.02% to Rs 3.03 lakh crore. Spectrum Usage Charges and license fees also recorded significant increases.

    In the broadcasting sector, India had 918 permitted private satellite TV channels as of March 2025, with 333 pay channels (232 SD and 101 HD). Pay DTH subscribers declined to 56.92 million, down from 61.97 million the previous year.

    There were 388 operational private FM radio stations across 113 cities, operated by 33 broadcasters after a recent merger. Community Radio Stations also saw growth, increasing from 494 to 531.

    The full report is available on TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in).

     

  • European heatwave caused 2,300 deaths, scientists estimate

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Around 2,300 people died of heat-related causes across 12 European cities during the severe heatwave that ended last week, according to a rapid scientific analysis published on Wednesday.

    The study targeted the 10 days, ending July 2, during which large parts of Western Europe were hit by extreme heat, with temperatures breaching 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) in Spain and wildfires breaking out in France.

    Of the 2,300 people estimated to have died during this period, 1,500 deaths were linked to climate change, which made the heatwave more severe, according to the study conducted by scientists at Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

    “Climate change has made it significantly hotter than it would have been, which in turn makes it a lot more dangerous,” said Dr Ben Clarke, a researcher at Imperial College London.

    The study covered 12 cities including Barcelona, Madrid, London and Milan, where the researchers said climate change had increased heatwave temperatures by up to 4 degrees Celsius.

    The researchers used established epidemiological models and historical mortality data to estimate the death toll, which reflects deaths where heat was the underlying reason for mortality, including if exposure exacerbated pre-existing health conditions.

    The scientists said they used peer-reviewed methods to quickly produce the estimated death toll, because most heat-related deaths are not officially reported and some governments do not release this data.

    Last month was the planet’s third-hottest June on record, behind the same month in 2024 and 2023, the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service said in a monthly bulletin on Wednesday.

    Western Europe experienced its warmest June on record, with much of the region experiencing “very strong heat stress” – defined by conditions that feel like a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more, Copernicus said.

    “In a warming world, heatwaves are likely to become more frequent, more intense and impact more people across Europe,” said Samantha Burgess, Copernicus’ strategic lead for climate.

    Researchers from European health institutes reported in 2023 that as many as 61,000 people may have died in Europe’s sweltering heatwaves in 2022, according to new research, suggesting countries’ heat preparedness efforts are falling fatally short.

    The build-up of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere – which mostly come from the burning of fossil fuels – means the planet’s average temperature has increased over time. This increase in baseline temperatures means that when a heatwave comes, temperatures can surge to higher peaks.

    (Reuters)

  • India set to explore over 2.5 lakh sq km in one of the largest offshore energy efforts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In one of the world’s largest offshore energy exploration initiatives, India is set to explore more than 2.5 lakh square kilometres under the Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP) Round X, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri said on Wednesday.

    “We are ready to enter a new era of energy… In the field of oil and gas exploration and production, there are no longer obstacles, only possibilities,” the minister said in a post on X.

    Hardeep Singh Puri is currently attending a meeting of the Offshore Energy Cluster in Bergen, Norway.

    “The bold decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the ‘no-go’ area is not only strengthening the country’s energy security but also preparing India to lead a major transformation in the energy sector,” he added.

    The Union Minister also met Kristian Sorensen, CEO of BW LPG, the world’s leading owner and operator of LPG vessels, which owns and operates Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs) with a total carrying capacity of over 4 million CBM.

    “The company is among the leaders in LPG shipping, accounting for 20 per cent of LPG imports into India. During our meeting in Oslo, we discussed ways to further strengthen the collaboration between BW LPG and Indian energy companies,” Puri said.

    Meanwhile, the oil and gas blocks being offered under the OALP have already attracted interest from both global and domestic energy players. Round X is expected to set new benchmarks for participation and investment.

    The Petroleum Ministry has also invited feedback and suggestions on the Draft Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, the Model Revenue Sharing Contract (MRSC), and the Petroleum Lease by July 17, 2025, as part of India’s push to accelerate the oil and gas sector.

    Hardeep Puri is scheduled to engage with ministers, officials and industry leaders at ‘Urja Varta 2025’ at Bharat Mandapam on July 17, ahead of India’s Round X of exploration and production bidding for oil and gas blocks, which is among the largest globally.

    —IANS

  • New deadlines for fuel ban on end-of-life vehicles in Delhi-NCR

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Tuesday extended the deadline for enforcement of its direction to deny fuel to End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles in Delhi-NCR. The decision was taken during the Commission’s 24th meeting, following concerns raised by the Delhi Government (GNCTD) regarding technological and operational challenges in its implementation.

    As per the amended clause of Statutory Direction No. 89, fuelling will be denied to EoL vehicles identified through Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems or other mechanisms from November 1, 2025, in Delhi and five high vehicle density districts of NCR – Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat. The directive will come into force across the rest of the NCR from April 1, 2026.

    GNCTD, in communications dated July 3 and July 7, 2025, flagged key issues, including incomplete integration of the ANPR system with neighbouring state databases, technical glitches, and enforcement difficulties. The state also raised legal concerns about geographic inconsistency under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and highlighted potential hardships for vehicle owners.

    CAQM acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the need for a uniform enforcement timeline to prevent loopholes. The communications highlighted the lack of integration between the system and vehicle databases of neighbouring states, warning that this could lead to ‘fuel tourism’ and the emergence of an illegal cross-border fuel market, as vehicles denied fuel in Delhi may cross state borders to refuel.

    Authorities were also reminded that EoL vehicles, once deregistered, are illegal for road use in Delhi-NCR and must be impounded when identified.

    The Transport Departments of Delhi and NCR states have been instructed to expedite ANPR system trials, ensure personnel training, and launch awareness campaigns for fuel station operators and the public. Agencies must report progress on EoL vehicle removal to the Commission monthly.

    This amendment provides additional time to resolve implementation gaps while reinforcing the CAQM’s commitment to phasing out polluting vehicles in the region.

  • New deadlines for fuel ban on end-of-life vehicles in Delhi-NCR

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Tuesday extended the deadline for enforcement of its direction to deny fuel to End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles in Delhi-NCR. The decision was taken during the Commission’s 24th meeting, following concerns raised by the Delhi Government (GNCTD) regarding technological and operational challenges in its implementation.

    As per the amended clause of Statutory Direction No. 89, fuelling will be denied to EoL vehicles identified through Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems or other mechanisms from November 1, 2025, in Delhi and five high vehicle density districts of NCR – Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat. The directive will come into force across the rest of the NCR from April 1, 2026.

    GNCTD, in communications dated July 3 and July 7, 2025, flagged key issues, including incomplete integration of the ANPR system with neighbouring state databases, technical glitches, and enforcement difficulties. The state also raised legal concerns about geographic inconsistency under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and highlighted potential hardships for vehicle owners.

    CAQM acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the need for a uniform enforcement timeline to prevent loopholes. The communications highlighted the lack of integration between the system and vehicle databases of neighbouring states, warning that this could lead to ‘fuel tourism’ and the emergence of an illegal cross-border fuel market, as vehicles denied fuel in Delhi may cross state borders to refuel.

    Authorities were also reminded that EoL vehicles, once deregistered, are illegal for road use in Delhi-NCR and must be impounded when identified.

    The Transport Departments of Delhi and NCR states have been instructed to expedite ANPR system trials, ensure personnel training, and launch awareness campaigns for fuel station operators and the public. Agencies must report progress on EoL vehicle removal to the Commission monthly.

    This amendment provides additional time to resolve implementation gaps while reinforcing the CAQM’s commitment to phasing out polluting vehicles in the region.

  • New deadlines for fuel ban on end-of-life vehicles in Delhi-NCR

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Tuesday extended the deadline for enforcement of its direction to deny fuel to End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles in Delhi-NCR. The decision was taken during the Commission’s 24th meeting, following concerns raised by the Delhi Government (GNCTD) regarding technological and operational challenges in its implementation.

    As per the amended clause of Statutory Direction No. 89, fuelling will be denied to EoL vehicles identified through Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems or other mechanisms from November 1, 2025, in Delhi and five high vehicle density districts of NCR – Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat. The directive will come into force across the rest of the NCR from April 1, 2026.

    GNCTD, in communications dated July 3 and July 7, 2025, flagged key issues, including incomplete integration of the ANPR system with neighbouring state databases, technical glitches, and enforcement difficulties. The state also raised legal concerns about geographic inconsistency under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and highlighted potential hardships for vehicle owners.

    CAQM acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the need for a uniform enforcement timeline to prevent loopholes. The communications highlighted the lack of integration between the system and vehicle databases of neighbouring states, warning that this could lead to ‘fuel tourism’ and the emergence of an illegal cross-border fuel market, as vehicles denied fuel in Delhi may cross state borders to refuel.

    Authorities were also reminded that EoL vehicles, once deregistered, are illegal for road use in Delhi-NCR and must be impounded when identified.

    The Transport Departments of Delhi and NCR states have been instructed to expedite ANPR system trials, ensure personnel training, and launch awareness campaigns for fuel station operators and the public. Agencies must report progress on EoL vehicle removal to the Commission monthly.

    This amendment provides additional time to resolve implementation gaps while reinforcing the CAQM’s commitment to phasing out polluting vehicles in the region.

  • ICC issues arrest warrants for Taliban leaders over persecution of women

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday issued arrest warrants for two Taliban leaders in Afghanistan including supreme spiritual leader Haibatullah Akhundzada, accusing them of the persecution of women and girls.

    The ICC said there were reasonable grounds to believe that Akhundzada and Abdul Hakim Haqqani, chief justice of the Taliban, had committed the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds against girls, women and other persons non-conforming with the Taliban’s policy on gender, gender identity or expression.

    Since the Islamist Taliban returned to power in 2021 it has clamped down on women’s rights, including limits to schooling, work and general independence in daily life.

    The Taliban condemned the warrants as an example of hostility towards Islam.

    “We neither recognise anything by the name of an international court nor do we consider ourselves bound by it,” the Taliban government’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, added in a statement.

    It is the first time judges of the ICC have issued a warrant on charges of gender persecution.

    “While the Taliban have imposed certain rules and prohibitions on the population as a whole, they have specifically targeted girls and women by reason of their gender, depriving them of fundamental rights and freedoms,” the court said.

    The full warrants and details on the specific incidents they are based on remain under seal to protect witnesses and victims, the court said.

    NGOs hailed the warrants and called on the international community to back the ICC’s work.

    “The international community should fully back the ICC in its critical work in Afghanistan and globally, including through concerted efforts to enforce the court’s warrants,” Human Rights Watch International Justice director Liz Evenson, said in a statement.

    The ICC has been under increased criticism from non-member states such as the United States, Israel and Russia.

    Last year the court issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict. The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2023 on suspicion of deporting children from Ukraine.

    Neither Russia nor Israel is a member of the court and both deny the accusations and reject ICC jurisdiction.

    Last month the United States imposed sanctions on four ICC judges including two who were involved in a ruling that allowed prosecutors to open a formal investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan, including alleged crimes committed by American troops.

    The ICC said it was an attempt to undermine the independence of an international judicial institution that provides hope and justice to millions of victims.

    (Reuters)

  • National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

    The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

    National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

    The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

    The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

    India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

    As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

    In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

  • National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

    The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

    National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

    The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

    The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

    India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

    As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

    In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

  • National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

    The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

    National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

    The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

    The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

    India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

    As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

    In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

  • Prime Minister Modi arrives in Namibia on final leg of five-nation tour

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Windhoek, Namibia, on Wednesday morning, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Namibia in nearly three decades and only the third such visit from India to the southern African nation.

    PM Modi is in Namibia on a State visit at the invitation of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Upon his arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, the Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome and greeted by Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi. In a symbolic gesture reflecting cultural exchange, PM Modi also tried his hand at playing traditional Namibian drums at the airport.

    In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Prime Minister’s visit underscores India’s “multi-faceted and deep-rooted historical ties with Namibia”. The visit marks the final leg of his five-nation tour, which included stops in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil.

    “During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with President Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also pay homage to the Founding Father and first President of Namibia, the late Dr. Sam Nujoma, and is expected to address the Parliament of Namibia,” the MEA said.

    The Indian diaspora in Namibia has welcomed the Prime Minister’s visit with great enthusiasm. Members of the community are preparing to greet him with a traditional Garba dance. “We are thrilled that Prime Minister Modi has arrived in Namibia. We will present a Garba dance to welcome him,” said a member of the diaspora.

    In a post on X, PM Modi described Namibia as a “valued and trusted African partner” and said he looked forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation during his engagements.

    “Landed in Windhoek a short while ago. Namibia is a valued and trusted African partner with whom we seek to boost bilateral cooperation. Looking forward to meeting President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and addressing the Namibian Parliament today,” the Prime Minister said.

  • Over 1.11 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first six days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    More than 1.11 lakh devotees have undertaken the annual Amarnath Yatra in just six days since the pilgrimage began on July 3, officials confirmed on Wednesday. Another batch of 7,579 pilgrims departed from Jammu earlier today, continuing the spiritual journey to the holy cave shrine nestled in the Kashmir Himalayas.

    According to officials, a total of 1,11,000 pilgrims have had ‘darshan’ at the sacred cave shrine so far. The latest group left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two heavily guarded convoys. The first convoy, comprising 133 vehicles carrying 3,031 pilgrims, departed at 3:25 a.m. en route to the Baltal base camp. The second convoy of 169 vehicles, with 4,548 pilgrims aboard, left at 3:40 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.

    Officials from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the yatra, said that in addition to those traveling from Jammu, a significant number of pilgrims have been registering on-site directly at Baltal and Nunwan.

    The Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the next 24 hours, with the possibility of isolated intense showers and thunderstorms.

    Security arrangements remain at their highest alert level in light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow, where Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians. In response, authorities have deployed an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), reinforcing existing personnel from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. All transit camps and routes—from Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar to the base camps and onwards to the shrine—are under multi-tier security coverage.

    Despite the shadow of past violence, the Yatra has witnessed strong local support. Residents have welcomed pilgrims warmly, with many standing at entry points such as the Navyug Tunnel near Qazigund, offering garlands and placards.

    This year’s Amarnath Yatra will run for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the sacred festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    The cave shrine, located 3,888 meters above sea level, is accessible via two primary routes: the traditional 46-km trail from Pahalgam, which passes through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni; and the shorter 14-km Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round trip within a single day.

    Due to heightened security concerns, helicopter services have been suspended for this year’s Yatra.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • Buddhists to observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā at Sarnath, marking the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Mahabodhi Society of India and supported by the Ministry of Culture, will observe Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā on July 10 with a solemn ceremony at the historic Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath.

    Also known as Dhammacakkappavattana Divas, Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā commemorates the First Turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. It was on this day that the Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, delivered his first sermon to the five ascetics at the Deer Park in Sarnath.

    The event marks the formal beginning of Buddha Dhamma or the Buddha’s teachings.

    The day also signifies the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional Rainy Season Retreat observed by monastics across the Buddhist world.

    According to the Ministry of Culture, the observance will begin at 4:00 pm with a solemn “Parikrama” and chanting ceremony at the Dhamek Stupa. This will be followed by the Mangalacharan, or chanting of the Mangala Sutta, and reflections by monks, scholars, and dignitaries.

    Sarnath is known as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings It was here that the Buddha first expounded the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

    Āshāḍha Pūrṇimā is observed across Buddhist-majority countries under different names, such as Esala Poya in Sri Lanka and Asalha Bucha in Thailand.

    The day also coincides with Guru Purnima, a festival observed by Hindus to honour spiritual teachers and mentors.

    The International Buddhist Confederation, established in 2012 following the Global Buddhist Congregation in New Delhi, is the world’s first international umbrella body representing Buddhist organizations, monastic orders, and lay institutions from diverse traditions and geographies.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the IBC currently has over 320 member organizations across 39 countries.

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the 2-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on July 09, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 2-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 1,00,000
    Total amount of offers received (in ₹ crore) 97,315
    Amount accepted (in ₹ crore) 97,315
    Cut off Rate (%) 5.49
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 5.46
    Partial Acceptance Percentage of offers received at cut off rate NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)     

    Press Release: 2025-2026/679

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • India and Brazil reaffirm strategic partnership with roadmap for next decade

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a State Visit to Brazil on Tuesday at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with both leaders pledging to deepen ties across a wide range of strategic areas.

    In a joint statement, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to bolster the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership, describing their shared vision as rooted in common values and aimed at advancing peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

    Defence and Security

    PM Modi and President Lula welcomed growing military collaboration, including joint exercises and senior‐level visits. They noted the recent Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information, and established a Bilateral Cybersecurity Dialogue to share expertise on cyber threats. Both condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and voiced Brazil’s solidarity with India. They condemned all forms of terrorism and agreed to deepen action against UN-designated groups such as Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad, including measures at the UN and FATF. An agreement to combat international terrorism and organized crime was also signed, and both leaders pledged support for the UN Convention on Cybercrime at its signing in Hanoi next year.

    They called for UN Security Council reform, backing expansion in permanent and non-permanent seats with fair representation for Asia, Africa and Latin America. Brazil reaffirmed support for India’s bid for a non-permanent Council seat in 2028–29, while India endorsed Brazil’s aspiration for permanent membership. The two urged a UN Charter review conference in 2025, marking the Organization’s 80th anniversary.

    On Middle East peace, both leaders urged a return to diplomacy, endorsing a two-state solution alongside safe humanitarian access in Gaza and backing UNRWA’s mandate. They also called for renewed dialogue to end hostilities in Ukraine.

    Food and Nutritional Security

    As leading agricultural producers, India and Brazil agreed to advance sustainable farming, fair trade and public stockholding for food security. They reaffirmed the goal of eradicating hunger by 2030 and pledged support for the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. Joint research on crop productivity, animal genetics and biotechnology will be encouraged through collaboration between national R&D bodies.

    Energy Transition and Climate Action

    The leaders underscored strong collaboration on bioenergy and biofuels, reaffirming their commitment to the Global Biofuels Alliance and exploring sustainable aviation fuel. PM Modi welcomed Brazil’s ‘Tropical Forests Forever Fund’ and India confirmed its support for Brazil’s presidency of COP30 in Belém next year.

    Both sides agreed to step up collaboration on climate finance, sustainable development, and a stronger, fairer international financial system, while urging developed countries to meet their Official Development Assistance commitments.

    Digital Cooperation and Emerging Tech

    Acknowledging the transformative potential of digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies, the two countries signed an MoU to deepen cooperation. India and Brazil pledged to work together on global digital governance and boost direct ties between their innovation ecosystems.

    Industrial Partnerships

    Both leaders noted growing bilateral investment flows and agreed to streamline visa processes to boost business and tourism. They invited closer ties in pharmaceuticals- highlighting Indian API firms in Brazil-aviation, defence equipment, mining, and oil and gas, including carbon capture technologies. A ministerial Commerce and Trade Review Mechanism will oversee the implementation of the 2020 Bilateral Investment Cooperation and Facilitation Treaty and the 2022 Double Taxation Protocol.