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Category: Government of India

  • EAM Jaishankar meets Singapore’s Vivian Bala, reaffirms strategic ties under ‘Act East Policy’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Sunday held a meeting with his Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan, reaffirming the central role Singapore plays in India’s ‘Act East Policy’.

    In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Singapore is at the heart of our Act East Policy. Always insightful to exchange views there. Great to meet FM Vivian Bala this morning in Singapore.”

    During his visit, Jaishankar also met Teo Chee Hean, Chairman-designate of Temasek Holdings, where they discussed the ongoing transformation in India and its growing investment opportunities.

    “A great pleasure to meet Chairman-designate of Temasek Holdings Teo Chee Hean today. Discussed the transformation underway in India and its investment opportunities,” Jaishankar said in another post on X.

    According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar’s visit to Singapore includes engagements with the country’s leadership as part of regular high-level exchanges between the two nations.

    Following his engagements in Singapore, the EAM is scheduled to travel to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM) in Tianjin, where he will also hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines.

    On July 2, MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran met with Luke Goh, Permanent Secretary (Development) for Foreign Affairs of Singapore, in New Delhi. The meeting reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation and explored priority initiatives to further strengthen the India-Singapore partnership.

    The year 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. To commemorate the occasion, President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam jointly unveiled a commemorative logo in New Delhi on January 16.

    The logo features symbolic elements including colours from both national flags, the Lotus (India’s national flower), the Orchid (Singapore’s national flower), and the number 60, celebrating the milestone. According to the MEA, the design reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust, and shared values between the two countries.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • President Murmu nominates four members to Rajya Sabha; PM Modi extends best wishes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated four distinguished individuals nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu, lauding their contributions across diverse fields.
     
    In a series of posts on X, PM Modi wished all four nominees – Ujjwal Nikam, C. Sadanandan Master, Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Dr. Meenakshi Jain – success in their parliamentary roles and expressed hope that their presence would bring valuable perspectives to the Rajya Sabha.
     
    PM Modi hailed Ujjwal Nikam, a renowned legal expert, for his unwavering commitment to constitutional values and justice, acknowledging his key role in several high-profile legal cases.
     
    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Shri Ujjwal Nikam’s devotion to the legal field and to our Constitution is exemplary. He has not only been a successful lawyer but also been at the forefront of seeking justice in important cases. During his entire legal career, he has always worked to strengthen Constitutional values and ensure common citizens are always treated with dignity. It’s gladdening that the President of India has nominated him to the Rajya Sabha. My best wishes for his Parliamentary innings.”
     
    PM Modi described C. Sadanandan Master as a symbol of courage and resilience, applauding his work as a teacher, social worker, and advocate for youth empowerment despite facing threats and violence.
     
    “Shri C. Sadanandan Master’s life is the epitome of courage and refusal to bow to injustice. Violence and intimidation couldn’t deter his spirit towards national development. His efforts as a teacher and social worker are also commendable. He is extremely passionate towards youth empowerment. Congratulations to him for being nominated to the Rajya Sabha by Rahstrapati Ji. Best wishes for his role as MP,” said PM Modi.
     
    Recognising Harsh Vardhan Shringla’s diplomatic service, PM Modi noted his role in shaping India’s foreign policy and contributions during the country’s G20 Presidency.
     
    “Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla Ji has excelled as a diplomat, intellectual and strategic thinker. Over the years, he’s made key contributions to India’s foreign policy and also contributed to our G20 Presidency. Glad that he’s been nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President of India. His unique perspectives will greatly enrich Parliamentary proceedings,” said PM Modi.
     
    PM Modi also praised Dr. Meenakshi Jain, a noted historian and scholar, for her impactful work in the fields of education, literature, history, and political science.
     
    “It’s a matter of immense joy that Dr. Meenakshi Jain Ji has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha by Rashtrapati Ji. She has distinguished herself as a scholar, researcher and historian. Her work in the fields of education, literature, history and political science have enriched academic discourse significantly. Best wishes for her Parliamentary tenure,” said PM Modi. 

  • Axiom-4 splash down on July 15 at 3 pm: Jitendra Singh on Shubhanshu Shukla’s return

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday shared an update on the Axiom-4 International Space Station (ISS) Mission and said that the astronauts are expected to splash down on Earth on July 15 at 3:00 p.m. (Indian time).

    Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently on board the ISS, along with three other crew members – Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Tibor Kapu – will undock inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from the Harmony module’s space-facing port for a return to Earth.

    In a post on X, Jitendra Singh said, “As of now, undocking has been scheduled for tomorrow, 14th July at 4:30 PM IST. Arrival back to earth…. splash down scheduled for 15th July at 3:00 PM IST.”

    “These timings have a margin window of approximately 1 hour. Further update, if any, shall be shared accordingly,” he added.

    A splashdown is expected several hours after the undocking, near the coast of California in the Pacific Ocean.

    IAF Group Captain Shukla is on a 14-day mission to the ISS. He became the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who went to space in 1984.

    On the orbital post, Shukla carried out seven India-specific experiments, taking a major step in advancing India’s Gaganyaan human space flight mission.

    These included experiments to decode muscle loss, developing a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space, among others.

    The four astronauts completed experiments that included the Indian strain of Tardigrades, focusing on survival, revival, reproduction, and transcriptome: Myogenesis, which studied the impact of the space environment on human muscle cells; sprouting of methi and moong seeds, with relevance to crew nutrition; and the Cyanobacteria experiment, which studied the growth of two varieties with relevance to life support systems.

    The experiments represent a significant leap in space science and technology, contributing critical knowledge to support Gaganyaan, Bhartiya Antariksha Station, and future planetary missions.

    After landing, Shukla, along with other crew members, will undergo a rehabilitation programme (about seven days) under the supervision of the Flight Surgeons to adapt back to Earth’s gravity.

    (IANS)

  • EU says it still wants US trade deal, will defend interests

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The European Union said on Saturday it was ready to retaliate to defend its interests if the United States pressed ahead with imposing a 30% tariff on European goods from August 1.

    U.S. President Donald Trump latest salvo surprised the bloc, the United States’ largest trading partner, which had hoped to avoid an escalating trade war after intense negotiations and increasingly warm words from the White House.

    Ursula von der Leyen, head of the EU executive which handles trade policy for the 27 member states, said the bloc was ready to keep working towards an agreement before August 1,but was willing to stand firm.

    “We will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required,” she said of possible retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods entering Europe.

    EU ambassadors will discuss next steps on Sunday, before trade ministers meet in Brussels on Monday for an extraordinary meeting. They will need to decide whether to impose tariffs on 21 billion euros of U.S. imports in retaliation against separate U.S. tariffs against steel and aluminium, or extend a suspension which lasts until the end of Monday.

    The EU has so far held back from retaliating against the U.S., although it has readied two packages that could hit a combined 93 billion euros of U.S. goods

    European capitals swiftly backed von der Leyen’s position.

    German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche called for a “pragmatic outcome to the negotiations”.

    Trump’s proposed tariffs”would hit European exporting companies hard. At the same time, they would also have a strong impact on the economy and consumers on the other side of the Atlantic,” she said.

    French President Emmanuel Macron said on X that the European Commission needed more than ever to “assert the Union’s determination to defend European interests resolutely”.

    Retaliation might need to include so-called anti-coercion instruments if Trump did not back down, Macron said.

    The tool, drawn up during Trump’s first term and used against China, allows the EU to go beyond traditional tariffs on goods and impose restrictions on trade in services, if it deems that a country is using tariffs to force a change in policy.

    Spain’s Economy Ministry backed further negotiations but added that Spain and others in the EU were ready to take “proportionate countermeasures if necessary”.

    Trump has periodically railed against the European Union, saying in February it was “formed to screw the United States”.

    His biggest grievance is the U.S. merchandise trade deficit with the EU, which in 2024 amounted to $235 billion, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The EU has repeatedly pointed to a U.S. surplus in services, arguing it in part redresses the balance.

    RETALIATION

    Combining goods, services and investment, the EU and the United States are each other’s largest trading partners by far. The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU said in March the trade dispute could jeopardise $9.5 trillion of business in the world’s most important commercial relationship.

    Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s trade committee said he was now convinced the first stage of countermeasures should come into force on Monday, followed quickly by the second package.

    Trump has said he would mirror any retaliatory moves.

    Still, Trump has repeatedly announced sweeping tariffs in recent months, only to row back or suspend them before his own self-imposed deadlines. The expectation that he will again relent has led to increasingly muted responses on financial markets, which have recovered since plunging after his initial “Liberation Day” announcement of big global tariffs in April.

    Three EU officials who spoke on condition on anonymity said they saw Trump’s latest threats as a negotiating ploy.

    Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING, said Trump’s move suggested that months of negotiations remained deadlocked and that the situation was inching towards a make-or-break moment for the transatlantic trade relationship.

    “The EU will now have to decide whether to budge or to play hardball,” he said. “This will bring market volatility and even more uncertainty.”

    Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, noted that the brunt of the U.S. tariffs, if implemented, would be felt by U.S. consumers.

    However, there would also be clear repercussions for the euro area economy, already struggling with weak growth.

    The European Central Bank had used a 10% tariff on EU exports to the United States as the baseline in its latest economic projections, which put output growth in the euro area at 0.9% this year, 1.1% in 2026 and 1.3% in 2027.

    It said a 20% U.S. tariff would curb growth by 1 percentage point over the same period and also pull down inflation to 1.8% in 2027, from 2.0% in the baseline scenario. It did not even offer an estimate for the possibility of a 30% tariff.

    (Reuters)

  • Unforgiving Swiatek crushes Anisimova 6-0 6-0 to win maiden Wimbledon crown

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iga Swiatek took another stride towards tennis greatness by ruthlessly tearing apart American 13th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-0 6-0 and lifting her first Wimbledon trophy on Saturday.

    The big occasion turned into a nightmare for Anisimova who became the first woman to lose a Wimbledon final by that painful scoreline since 1911 and the first to do so at any major since Steffi Graf routed Natasha Zvereva at the 1988 French Open.

    Already a U.S. Open champion and a four-times French Open winner, Swiatek’s demolition job at the All England Club meant that she became the youngest woman since a 20-year-old Serena Williams in 2002 to lift major titles on all three surfaces.

    Her superb display on the sun-drenched lawns of London also ensured that she emerged as the first player since Monica Seles in 1992 to win her first six major finals.

    “It’s something that is just surreal. I feel like tennis keeps surprising me, and I keep surprising myself,” Swiatek told reporters after hoisting the gilded Venus Rosewater Dish.

    “I’m really happy with the whole process, how it looked like from the first day we stepped on a grasscourt. Yeah, I feel like we did everything for it to go in that direction without expecting it, just working really hard.

    “It means a lot, and it gives me a lot of experience. Yeah, I don’t even know. I’m just happy.”

    Swiatek’s triumph ended a barren 13-month run for the Polish 24-year-old, who served a short suspension late last year after an inadvertent doping violation linked to contaminated sleep medication melatonin.

    “I want to thank my coach (Wim Fissette). With the ups and downs now, we showed everybody it’s working,” Swiatek added.

    SCORCHING START

    On another warm afternoon on Centre Court, Swiatek got off to a scorching start by breaking a nervous Anisimova three times en route to dishing out the first bagel, prompting some spectators to get behind the shell-shocked American.

    A frustrated Anisimova shrieked and desperately looked to her team in the stands for any kind of guidance after conceding yet another break point early in the second set and it was not long before her machine-like opponent pulled away further.

    Anisimova continued to disappointingly crack under pressure, before Swiatek completed the brutal mauling in 57 minutes with a backhand winner on her second match point to become the first Wimbledon champion from Poland.

    Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk celebrated with a picture of himself watching a post-match interview while holding a bowl of pasta and strawberries, Swiatek’s cheat meal at Wimbledon, while President Andrzej Duda was effusive in his praise.

    “Iga! Today, on the grasscourts of Wimbledon, you wrote history – not only for Polish sport, but also for Polish pride. On behalf of the Republic of Poland – thank you,” Duda wrote.

    Victory took Swiatek to 100 wins from 120 matches at the majors, making her the quickest to get to there since Williams in 2004, and denied Anisimova the chance to become the first American to win the title since her compatriot in 2016.

    Swiatek jumped for joy on court before running towards her team in the stands to celebrate her triumph. The Friends fan was equally delighted to receive a congratulatory hug from American actress Courteney Cox, who was among the spectators.

    All this while, Anisimova was left to wonder what could have been as she sat in her seat, before the tears began to flow during her on-court interview.

    Few would have envisioned the American to hit the heights she did in the last fortnight after she fell outside the top 400 following her mental health break two years ago.

    “I didn’t have enough today,” said Anisimova, who began the tournament with a 6-0 6-0 win over Yulia Putintseva but admitted to running out of gas in the final.

    “I’m going to keep putting in the work, and I always believe in myself. I hope to be back again one day.”

    It was bitter disappointment for U.S. fans hoping for an “American Slam” this year after Madison Keys won the Australian Open at the start of the year and Coco Gauff triumphed at the French Open last month.

    (Reuters)

  • Britain’s Cash and Glasspool win Wimbledon men’s doubles title

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Fifth seeds Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool capped their dream summer with the Wimbledon crown and first Grand Slam title as a pair when the British team downed Rinky Hijikata and David Pel 6-2 7-6(3) in the men’s doubles final on Saturday.

    Queen’s Club and Eastbourne champions Cash and Glasspool became the first all-British pairing to win the All England Club trophy since 1936, when Pat Hughes and Raymond Tuckey defeated their compatriots Charles Hare and Frank Wilde in the final.

    “When you say it, it sounds incredible,” said Glasspool.

    “We’ve had a Brit win it last year (Henry Patten), the year before that (Neal Skupski) so I didn’t think too much of it, but now we needed to give you two so we did our best.”

    The local favourites shot out of the blocks after an early break thanks to a poor service game from Pel and raced through the opening set with minimum fuss, leaving fans buzzing on a sun-drenched Centre Court.

    The Australian-Dutch duo of Hijikata and Pel saved a break point at the start of the second set and applied pressure in the fourth game but their opponents were equal to the task and took a step towards the title when they went 4-2 up.

    Hijikata and Pel, who entered the tournament as alternates and survived match points in their first two rounds, drew level after eight games before Cash and Glasspool moved up a gear in the tiebreak to prevail and spark huge celebrations.

    “We’ve played a crazy amount of tennis on the grass, every match we possibly could,” said Cash.

    “So a lot of people were talking, coming into this event. There was a lot of pressure on our shoulders. And the fact we’ve been able to do what everyone was talking about is surreal.”

    The runners-up cut cheerful figures despite the defeat.

    “We didn’t even meet before the tournament,” the 34-year-old Pel said. “I mean, it was our first time speaking on the day the tournament started.”

    Hijikata, who won the 2023 Australian Open title with Jason Kubler, called his All England Club adventure a “crazy ride”.

    “It’s been so much fun playing with David,” Hijikata said.

    “He’s brought such a great energy on the court. He’s made it very easy for me out there. It’s a dream come true to be playing on Centre Court. A bit shattered, but it was a lot of fun.”

    (Reuters)

  • Iran says it will work with IAEA but inspections may be risky

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran plans to cooperate with the U.N. nuclear watchdog despite restrictions imposed by its parliament, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Saturday, while stressing that access to its bombed nuclear sites posed security and safety issues.

    A new law passed in Iran following last month’s Israeli and U.S. bombing campaign stipulates that inspection of Iran’s nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) needs approval by the Supreme National Security Council, Iran’s top security body.

    The Israeli and U.S. strikes targeted a nuclear programme which Western countries have long said was aimed at building an atomic weapon. Iran has long said its nuclear programme is purely peaceful.

    Any negotiations over Iran’s future nuclear programme are likely to require its cooperation with the IAEA, which angered Iran last month by declaring on the eve of the Israeli strikes that Tehran was violating non-proliferation treaty commitments.

    “The risk of spreading radioactive materials and the risk of exploding leftover munitions … are serious,” state media cited Araqchi as saying. “For us, IAEA inspectors approaching nuclear sites has both a security aspect … and the safety of the inspectors themselves is a matter that must be examined.”

    While Iran’s cooperation with the nuclear watchdog has not stopped, it will take a new form and will be guided and managed through the Supreme National Security Council, Araqchi told Tehran-based diplomats.

    “The IAEA’s requests for continued monitoring in Iran will be … decided on a case-by-case basis by the Council with consideration to safety and security issues,” Araqchi said.

    Iran will not agree to any nuclear deal that does not allow it to enrich uranium, Araqchi reiterated. Iran would only agree to talks limited to its nuclear programme and not encompassing defence issues such as its missiles.

    Axios cited sources on Saturday as saying Russian President Vladimir Putin had voiced support for the idea of an accord in which Tehran would bebarred from enriching uranium. Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim quoted an “informed source” as saying Putin had not sent any such message to Iran.

    Speaking to the state news agency IRNA, Araqchi said Iran was carefully considering the details of any renewed nuclear talks with the U.S. and seeking assurances that Washington would not again resort to military force. “We are in no hurry to enter into unconsidered negotiations,” he added.

    Araqchi also said any move by Britain, France and Germany to reimpose international sanctions on Iran through a so-called “snapback” mechanism under an earlier nuclear deal would “end Europe’s role” in Iran’s nuclear issue.

    Under the terms of a U.N. resolution ratifying a 2015 nuclear pact, the three European powers could reimpose United Nations sanctions against Tehran by October 18, 2025.

    (Reuters)

  • India equal England’s first-innings score of 387 with Test in balance

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Opener KL Rahul scored a century while Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant pitched in with crucial fifties as India posted 387 on day three, equalling England’s first innings, with their third test hanging in the balance at Lord’s on Saturday.

    An injury to Shoaib Bashir blunted England’s pace-spin attack strategy when India looked vulnerable with five wickets down after losing Pant and Rahul in quick succession, before Jadeja steadied their innings with his third fifty-plus knock in a row.

    England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett played a single over before stumps, remaining unbeaten at 2-0 as the five-match series remains tied with both sides looking to go 2-1 up with a win.

    “Pretty even. You toil away for three days and you sit here with a two-run lead. Looking forward to a two-day shoot-out,” England bowling coach Tim Southee told the BBC.

    India started well from an overnight score of 145-3 with Rahul accompanied by left-handed batter Pant, who scored twin centuries in the first test, battled through an injured finger on his left hand as he hooked England captain Stokes for six to bring up his fifty.

    The two added 141 runs for the fourth wicket before Pant was run out for 74 on the last ball before lunch as he played Bashir towards cover point, where Stokes made a quick turn to hit the stumps on the non-striker’s end with a swift, direct throw.

    Rahul was the next to fall, edging Bashir’s flighted ball to Harry Brook in the slip on his very next ball after reaching 100, leaving India on shaky ground at 254-5 under a warm London sun.

    But Bashir had to leave the ground when he injured a finger on his non-bowling left hand while attempting a low catch from his own delivery as Jadeja shot down the wicket. Commentators later said the 21-year-old might need extra treatment in the evening.

    JADEJA STEERS THE SHIP

    Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy, new to the crease, looked unsteady as England’s bowlers piled on the pressure. Mix-ups between the batters put Reddy at risk of getting run out on two occasions but Ollie Pope’s direct throws missed the target both times.

    However, as England returned to using two pacers soon after Bashir’s injury, the pair put together a 72-run partnership before Stokes claimed his second wicket of the match, getting Reddy to nick it to keeper Jamie Smith for 30.

    But Jadeja kept the runs flowing, scoring his third fifty-plus knock in a row, while Washington Sundar adopted a slow, cautious approach on the other end.

    Their 50-run partnership for the eighth wicket got India within 11 runs of England’s total, before Chris Woakes dismissed Jadeja for 72 as the batter’s attempt to send the ball down fine leg only took a thin edge and landed in Smith’s gloves.

    Akash Deep, in at number nine, was given out leg before wicket twice by umpire Sharfuddoula Saikat during the same over but Hawk-Eye showed the ball was missing the stumps when the batter reviewed them, overturning both decisions.

    But Deep fell soon after to Brydon Carse for seven, with Brook trapping him at third slip with a low dive.

    Sundar brought the scores level before falling to Jofra Archer for 23, bringing an end to India’s innings.

    Crawley and Duckett, batting shortly before stumps, got into arguments with Indian fielders over delays. India captain Shubman Gill clapped for Crawley when he called for the physio to check his injury after the ball hit his glove.

    Duckett shared some words with Gill as the batters saw out the over from Jasprit Bumrah, leaving the feisty contest finely poised going into the final two days.

    “He’ll be assessed overnight. Hopefully he’ll be good to go tomorrow,” Southee told reporters about Crawley’s finger injury. “Shubman Gill was lying down having a massage yesterday.”

    (Reuters)

  • Gaza truce talks faltering over withdrawal; 17 reported killed in latest shooting near aid

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Progress is stalling at talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza, with the sides divided over the extent of Israeli forces’ withdrawal from the Palestinian enclave, Palestinian and Israeli sources familiar with the negotiations in Doha said on Saturday.

    The indirect talks over a U.S. proposal for a 60-day ceasefire continued throughout Saturday, an Israeli official told Reuters, seven days since talks began. U.S. President Donald Trump has said he hoped for a breakthrough soon based on a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal.

    In Gaza, medics said 17 people trying to get food aid were killed on Saturday when Israeli troops opened fire, the latest mass shooting around a U.S.-backed aid distribution system that the U.N. says has resulted in 800 people killed in six weeks.

    Witnesses who spoke to Reuters described people being shot in the head and torso. Reuters saw several bodies of victims wrapped in white shrouds as family members wept at Nasser Hospital. The Israeli military said its troops had fired warning shots, but that its review of the incident had found no evidence of anyone hurt by its soldiers’ fire.

    Delegations from Israel and Hamas have been in Qatar pushing for an agreement which envisages a phased release of hostages, Israeli troop withdrawals and discussions on ending the war.

    The Israeli official blamed the impasse on Hamas, which he said “remains stubborn, sticking to positions that do not allow the mediators to advance an agreement”. Hamas has previously blamed Israeli demands for blocking a deal.

    A Palestinian source said that Hamas had rejected withdrawal maps which Israel had proposed that would leave around 40% of Gaza under Israeli control, including all of the southern area of Rafah and further territories in northern and eastern Gaza.

    Two Israeli sources said Hamas wanted Israel to retreat to lines it held in a previous ceasefire before it renewed its offensive in March.

    The Palestinian source said aid issues and guarantees on an end to the war were also presenting a challenge.The crisis could be resolved with more U.S. intervention, the source said.

    Hamas has long demanded an agreement to end the war before it would free remaining hostages; Israel has insisted it would end the fighting only when all hostages are released and Hamas is dismantled as a fighting force and administration in Gaza.

    SHOOTING

    Saturday’s reported mass shooting near an aid distribution point in Rafah was the latest in a series of such incidents that the United Nations rights office said on Friday had seen at least 798 peoplekilled trying to get food in six weeks.

    “We were sitting there, and suddenly there was shooting towards us. For five minutes we were trapped under fire. The shooting was targeted. It was not random. Some people were shot in the head, some in the torso, one guy next to me was shot directly in the heart,” eyewitness Mahmoud Makram told Reuters.

    “There is no mercy there, no mercy. People go because they are hungry but they die and come back in body bags.”

    After partially lifting a total blockade of all goods into Gaza in late May, Israel launched a new aid distribution system, relying on a group backed by the United States to distribute food under the protection of Israeli troops.

    The United Nations has rejected the system as inherently dangerous and a violation of humanitarian neutrality principles. Israel says it is necessary to keep militants from diverting aid.

    The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages into Gaza. At least 20 of the remaining 50 hostages there are believed to still be alive.

    Israel’s campaign against Hamas has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, displaced almost the entire population of more than 2 million people, sparked a humanitarian crisis and left much of the territory in ruins.

    Thousands of Israelis rallied in central Tel Aviv on Saturday demanding a deal that would release all remaining hostages being held by Hamas.

    Protester Boaz Levi told Reuters here was there to pressure the government, “to get to a hostage deal as soon as possible because our friends, brothers, are in Gaza and it’s about the time to end this war. That is why we are here.”

    (Reuters)

  • AIIA to host Shalyacon 2025: A three-day national seminar on Ayurvedic surgery

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi will host Shalyacon 2025, a three-day national seminar from July 13 to 15, coinciding with Sushruta Jayanti, celebrated annually on July 15 to honor Acharya Sushruta, widely regarded as the Father of Surgery. Organized by AIIA’s Department of Shalya Tantra under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, in collaboration with the National Sushruta Association, the event marks the 25th Annual Conference of the association.

    The inaugural ceremony on July 14 will be attended by Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Ayush, as the Chief Guest. Guests of Honour include Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush; Prof. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice Chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur; and Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Nesari, Director of the Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar.

    Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, Director (I/C) of AIIA, emphasized the institute’s commitment to advancing Ayurveda globally. “Shalyacon reflects AIIA’s dedication to integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern surgical advancements, equipping emerging Ayurvedic surgeons with the skills and confidence to practice integrated surgical care,” she said.

    The seminar, themed around Innovation, Integration, and Inspiration, will feature live surgical demonstrations on July 13 and 14, including general surgeries, anorectal procedures, and urosurgical cases. The first day will showcase ten general endoscopic laparoscopic surgeries, while the second day will feature sixteen anorectal surgeries, providing participants with real-time learning opportunities.

    Shalyacon 2025 is expected to draw over 500 scholars, surgeons, researchers, and academicians from India and abroad. The event will foster idea exchange, highlight clinical advancements, and explore emerging trends in Ayurvedic surgical practices. A special plenary session spanning all three days will cover topics such as General and Laparoscopic Surgery, Wound Management, Para-surgical Techniques, Anorectal Surgery, Asthi-Sandhi Marma Chikitsa, and surgical innovations.

    On the final day, over 200 oral and poster presentations will contribute to scholarly discussions. Additionally, a Scientific Session will provide a platform for researchers and clinicians to present their work, followed by a cultural program to conclude the event.
    This dynamic confluence of tradition and technology underscores AIIA’s mission to advance Ayurvedic surgery and promote its global relevance.

  • Trump intensifies trade war with 30% tariffs on EU and Mexico

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico and the European Union starting on August 1, after weeks of negotiations with the key U.S. allies and top trading partners failed to reach a comprehensive trade deal.

    In an escalation of the trade war that has angered U.S. allies and rattled investors, Trump announced the latest tariffs in separate letters to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum posted on Truth Social on Saturday.

    Both the EU and Mexico responded by calling the tariffs unfair and disruptive while pledging to continue to negotiate with the U.S. for a broader trade deal before the August deadline.

    The European Union and Mexico are among the largest U.S. trading partners.

    Trump has sent similar letters to 23 other U.S. trading partners this week, including Canada, Japan and Brazil, setting blanket tariff rates ranging from 20% up to 50%, as well as a 50% tariff on copper.

    Trump said the 30% tariff rate was “separate from all sectoral tariffs”, which means 50% levies on steel and aluminum imports and a 25% tariff on auto imports would remain at those levels.

    The August 1 deadline gives countries targeted by Trump’s letters time to negotiate a trade deal that could lower the threatened tariff levels.

    The spate of letters shows Trump has returned to the aggressive trade posture that he took in early April when he announced a slew of reciprocal tariffs against trading partners that sent markets tumbling before the White House delayed implementation.

    But with the stock market hitting record highs in recent weeks and a bullish economy, Trump is showing no signs of slowing down his trade war.

    Trump promised to use the 90-day pause in April to strike dozens of new trade deals with trading partners, but has only secured framework agreements with Britain, China and Vietnam.

    The EU had hoped to reach a comprehensive trade agreement with the U.S. for the 27-country bloc.

    Trump’s letter to the EU included a demand that Europe drop its own tariffs, an apparent condition of any future deal.

    “The European Union will allow complete, open Market Access to the United States, with no Tariff being charged to us, in an attempt to reduce the large Trade Deficit,” Trump wrote.

    EU President von der Leyen said the 30% tariffs “would disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic.”

    She also said while the EU will continue to work towards a trade agreement, they “will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required.”

    Mexico’s economy ministry said Saturday that it was informed the U.S. would send a letter during a bilateral meeting Friday with U.S. officials.

    “We mentioned at the roundtable that it was unfair treatment and that we did not agree,” the ministry’s statement said.

    MEXICO’S TARIFF RATE LOWER THAN CANADA’S

    Mexico’s proposed tariff level is lower than Canada’s 35% rate, with both letters citing fentanyl flows even though government data shows the amount of the drug seized at the Mexican border was significantly higher than the Canadian border.

    “Mexico has been helping me secure the border, BUT, what Mexico has done, is not enough. Mexico still has not stopped the Cartels who are trying to turn all of North America into a Narco-Trafficking Playground,” Trump wrote.

    Mexico sends more than 80% of its total exported goods to the U.S. and free trade with its northern neighbor drove Mexico to overtake China as the U.S.’s top trading partner in 2023.

    The EU had initially hoped to strike a comprehensive trade agreement but more recently had scaled back its ambitions and shifted toward securing a broader framework deal similar to the one Britain brokered that leaves key details to be negotiated.

    The 27-country bloc is under conflicting pressures as powerhouse Germany urged a quick deal to safeguard its industry, while other EU members, such as France, have said EU negotiators should not cave into a one-sided deal on U.S. terms.

    Trump’s cascade of tariff orders since returning to the White House has begun generating tens of billions of dollars a month in new revenue for the U.S. government. U.S. customs duties revenue shot past $100 billion in the federal fiscal year through to June, according to U.S. Treasury data on Friday.

    The tariffs have also strained security relationships with some of America’s closest partners.

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said last week that Japan needed to wean itself from U.S. dependence in key areas. The fight over tariffs has also prompted Canada and some European allies to reexamine their security dependence on the United States, with some looking to purchase non-U.S. weapons systems.

    (Reuters)

  • Favourable agricultural output, easing inflation to support rural consumption in FY26: Report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Recent reductions in income tax burdens, benign inflation, lower interest rates and a favourable outlook for agricultural production are expected to support rural incomes and bolster overall consumption in India, according to a new report.

    Given that private final consumption expenditure constitutes nearly 60 per cent of India’s GDP, it has a strong bearing on India’s overall growth outlook.

    A sustained recovery in consumption is also vital for a meaningful pick-up in private sector capital expenditure.

    “We expect private consumption growth of 6.2 per cent in FY26 compared to an average of 6.7 per cent in the last three years. In the long run, it will be critical to monitor factors impacting household income to ensure healthy growth in private consumption,” said the report by CareEdge Ratings.

    While overall consumption growth has remained broadly healthy over the past few years, recent indicators suggest emerging pressures in urban demand, even as rural demand continues to hold firm.

    Rural consumption is expected to be supported by favourable agricultural output and easing inflation in FY26, the report mentioned.

    Recent policy support in the form of RBI rate cuts, reduced tax burdens, and easing inflationary pressures is expected to offer some relief and support to urban consumption in the near term.

    Moreover, rural consumption could get a further fillip from the likelihood of a good monsoon this year, the report mentioned.

    At a time when the income growth has been weak, the household leverage has seen an uptick. As of FY24, household debt stands at 41 per cent of GDP and 55 per cent of net household disposable income. Even though, Indian households are less leveraged than certain emerging economies such as Thailand (87 per cent of GDP), Malaysia (67 per cent) and China (62 per cent).

    The report said that it is essential to closely monitor the unsecured segment of household liabilities, which has increased in the post-pandemic years. This is particularly important in the context of moderating income growth and rising delinquencies in the segment.

    (IANS)

  • Widespread rainfall predicted across India till July 17; Delhi-NCR faces waterlogging and traffic

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast intermittent rainfall across large parts of the country till July 17, with heavy to very heavy showers expected in several regions, including the National Capital Region (NCR).

    In Delhi and surrounding areas, continuous rainfall has led to waterlogging and traffic disruptions, affecting daily life in parts of Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram. Several roads, underpasses, and residential colonies remain inundated, leading to long traffic jams and vehicle breakdowns.

    While no formal weather alert has been issued for Delhi-NCR so far, the IMD has warned of persistent rain and thunderstorms throughout the week. The region is likely to experience fluctuating weather conditions, with spells of sunshine contributing to high humidity and discomfort. Temperatures are expected to range between 23°C and 36°C, with humidity levels staying between 60 and 95 percent.

    Nationwide, the IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Central and Northwest India, especially over East Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and both eastern and western parts of Uttar Pradesh through July 17.

    Eastern and central Indian states such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal are also likely to receive isolated heavy showers during this period. In western India, isolated heavy rainfall is expected on July 13 in parts of Konkan and Goa, Gujarat, Central Maharashtra, and the Saurashtra region.

    The weather department also expects light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, to continue in Northeast India over the next seven days.

    In the South, states like Coastal Karnataka, Kerala, South Interior Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are likely to experience isolated heavy showers over the coming days.

    Due to rough sea conditions, fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal until July 16.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • PM Modi hands out 51,000 appointment letters in 16th Rozgar Mela, says youth driving nation-building

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to newly-inducted recruits in various Central government departments and organisations through video conferencing during the 16th edition of the Rozgar Mela.

    The employment drive was conducted simultaneously at 47 locations across the country.

    According to an official statement, the new recruits, selected from across India, will be joining key departments including the Ministry of Railways, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Posts, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others.

    Addressing the new appointees, PM Modi said, “Our campaign to hand out appointment letters to youth in the Central Government is underway. Today, over 51,000 youth have been given appointment letters. Through such employment initiatives, till now, lakhs of youth have secured permanent jobs in the Indian government. These individuals are now contributing significantly to nation-building.”

    He highlighted the wide spectrum of departments where the recruits will be deployed, highlighting their contribution to diverse national missions.

    “Many of you have started your careers in Indian Railways, and many will be a part of India’s security. People appointed in the postal department will take the government’s initiatives to every village. Many will be a part of the ‘Health for All’ mission, some will enhance the engine of financial inclusion, and others will further strengthen the industrial development of the country. Your department might be different, but the focus is one — service to the nation and ‘Citizen First’,” he said.

    The Prime Minister congratulated the appointees and wished them well as they begin their new professional journey.

    Stressing India’s “unlimited power — demography and democracy,” PM Modi said, “India has the largest youth population and the largest democracy. This is India’s most cherished wealth and guarantee. Our government is working day and night to make this wealth a source of progress.”

    Referring to his recent international engagements, PM Modi said, “Two days ago, I returned from a five-nation tour. In every country, India’s youth power was acknowledged. The agreements made during this tour will all benefit Indian youth.”

    Launched on October 22, 2022, the Rozgar Mela is part of the Prime Minister’s mission to prioritise employment generation. It is aimed at expediting recruitment across government departments and organisations and ensuring that vacant posts do not slow down public service delivery.

    Official data reveals that more than 10 lakh appointment letters have been issued across the country through Rozgar Melas since its inception.

    The initiative has played a key role in streamlining recruitment, improving efficiency in public services, and strengthening critical infrastructure in schools, hospitals, railway stations, police units, and tax offices.

    The appointees under the Rozgar Mela will serve in a variety of sectors, reinforcing the government’s workforce and contributing towards national development goals.

    By accelerating the selection process, the initiative is ensuring that employment generation remains at the core of India’s governance agenda.

    (IANS)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi hails UNESCO recognition of Maratha military landscapes as India’s 44th World Heritage Site

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed immense pride and joy over the inscription of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. The recognition, granted at the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, marks India’s 44th World Heritage site and celebrates the nation’s enduring cultural and architectural legacy.

    The nomination, submitted for the 2024–25 cycle, features a group of twelve strategically located forts that exemplify the Maratha Empire’s military acumen and architectural brilliance from the 17th to 19th centuries CE. The inscription followed an extensive eighteen-month evaluation involving technical reviews and an on-site mission by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).

    Reacting to the announcement, Prime Minister Modi took to X, saying:

    “Every Indian is elated with this recognition. These ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ include 12 majestic forts, 11 of which are in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu. When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural pride and emphasis on social welfare. The great rulers inspire us with their refusal to bow to any injustice. I call upon everyone to go visit these forts and learn about the rich history of the Maratha Empire. Here are pictures from my visit to Raigad Fort in 2014. Had the opportunity to bow to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Will always cherish that visit.”

    Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also extended congratulations to the nation, calling the recognition a proud moment for India’s cultural diplomacy and historical preservation.

    The twelve forts that comprise the Maratha Military Landscapes include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, as well as Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.

    These forts are strategically situated across diverse terrains—ranging from hilltops and dense forests to plateaus and coastal islands. Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Salher, Rajgad, and Gingee are hill forts. Pratapgad is a hill-forest fort, Panhala is a hill-plateau fort, Vijaydurg is a coastal fort, and Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, and Sindhudurg are classified as island forts.

    Eight of these forts—Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee—fall under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The remaining four—Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgad—are maintained by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra.

    India’s nomination was accepted under UNESCO criteria (iv) and (vi), recognizing the forts for their outstanding architectural and technological significance, as well as their deep cultural and historical associations. The nomination received overwhelming support from 18 of the 20 State Parties present, with the final deliberation lasting 59 minutes.

    This recognition follows the inscription of the Moidams of Charaideo in Assam during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi last year. With this new addition, India now ranks sixth globally and second in the Asia-Pacific region for the number of World Heritage Sites.

    India is currently serving as a member of the World Heritage Committee for the 2021–2025 term and continues to strengthen its global cultural presence through the dedicated efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India—the country’s nodal agency for all matters related to World Heritage. Presently, India also has 62 sites on the Tentative List, a prerequisite for future World Heritage nominations.

  • Maratha military landscapes of India inscribed as 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, France, the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” were officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This significant recognition marks India’s 44th World Heritage site and highlights the country’s remarkable historical and architectural heritage, reflecting its enduring cultural legacy on the global stage.

    The nomination, submitted for the 2024–25 cycle, highlights a group of twelve strategically located forts that exemplify the Maratha Empire’s military acumen and architectural brilliance between the 17th and 19th centuries CE. The inscription followed a rigorous eighteen-month process that included multiple technical evaluations and an on-site mission by ICOMOS, the International Council on Monuments and Sites.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated the nation on this significant achievement, praising the recognition of India’s historical and cultural contributions to global heritage.

    The Maratha Military Landscapes comprise forts located across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The twelve forts include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, along with Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.

    These sites are spread across diverse terrains, from hilltops and dense forests to plateaus and coastal islands. Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Salher, Rajgad, and Gingee are categorized as hill forts. Pratapgad is classified as a hill-forest fort, while Panhala stands on a plateaued hill and is recognized as a hill-plateau fort. Vijaydurg is a notable coastal fort, whereas Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, and Sindhudurg are island forts surrounded by the Arabian Sea.

    Eight of these forts—Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee—are under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The remaining four—Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgad—are safeguarded by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra.

    The inclusion of these forts under UNESCO’s World Heritage List is a result of India’s nomination under criteria (iv) and (vi), which pertain to architectural and technological significance and strong association with living traditions and historical events. The collective ensemble presents a sophisticated understanding of geography, defense strategy, and regional adaptation.

    During the committee meeting, 18 out of 20 State Parties supported India’s proposal. The deliberation lasted for 59 minutes, after which the proposal received enthusiastic backing from all member states, UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre, and advisory bodies such as ICOMOS and IUCN.

    This global recognition comes on the heels of the Moidams of Charaideo in Assam, which were inscribed at the 46th session held in New Delhi last year. India now ranks sixth globally and second in the Asia-Pacific region for the most number of World Heritage Sites.

    India is currently a member of the World Heritage Committee (2021–2025) and continues to promote its cultural and natural legacy through the efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India, the nodal agency for all World Heritage matters. The country also maintains 62 sites on its Tentative List, which serves as a prerequisite for future nominations.

  • PM Modi to distribute over 51,000 appointment letters at 16th Rozgar Mela today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a push to accelerate employment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly inducted candidates in various government departments and organisations on Saturday at the 16th edition of the Rozgar Mela, which will take place virtually.

    PM Modi will address the recruits via video conferencing at around 11 a.m.

    Today’s event will be organised at 47 locations across the country, covering recruitments in several key Central Government Ministries and Departments. These include the Ministry of Railways, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Posts, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, the Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Labour & Employment, among others.

    The new recruits, selected from different parts of the country, will take up roles in various sectors, further strengthening government service delivery and infrastructure.

    The appointments are expected to bring fresh energy and commitment to public administration while ensuring that government departments are adequately staffed to meet the growing demands of governance.

    This nationwide employment initiative, launched by PM Modi on October 22, 2022, is part of the government’s mission-mode approach to creating new job opportunities and bolstering the public workforce. Since its inception, the Rozgar Mela has led to the issuance of over 10 lakh appointment letters across India, according to official data.

    The Rozgar Mela symbolises the government’s ongoing commitment to harnessing the potential of India’s youth. By offering structured employment and career development opportunities, the initiative seeks to inspire the younger generation to actively contribute to nation-building.

    With a strong focus on merit, transparency, and efficiency, the Rozgar Mela continues to speed up the recruitment process and enhance public sector capacity.

    (IANS)

  • Alcaraz muscles past Fritz to reach Wimbledon final

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Twice defending champion Carlos Alcaraz tamed the towering Taylor Fritz to reach his third straight Wimbledon final, rediscovering his A-game when it mattered most to battle past the American in a 6-4 5-7 6-3 7-6(6) victory on Friday.

    Eyeing a sixth Grand Slam title, the Spaniard was eventually too strong for the metronomically consistent Fritz, whose biggest weapons were still not damaging enough to unsettle the second seed under a fiery sun on Centre Court.

    Alcaraz’s victory set the stage for a tantalising final against either world number one Jannik Sinner or 24-time major winner Novak Djokovic, who will duel it out in the second semi-final on Friday.

    Fritz broke Alcaraz for the first and only occasion to take the second set as the Spaniard’s intensity levels dropped, but the champion quickly regained the upper hand, breaking twice in the third set and coming through a tense tiebreak to clinch victory.

    -Reuters

  • Delhi CM Rekha Gupta distributes Rs 5 lakh each to 24 fire-hit Dilli Haat artisans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday distributed cheques of Rs 5 lakh each to 24 artisans whose stalls were damaged in a fire that broke out at Dilli Haat in April.

    On the evening of April 30, a devastating fire broke out at Dilli Haat, INA, completely destroying 24 artisan stalls. Following the incident, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced an ex gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh for each affected artisan.

    A total amount of Rs 1.20 crore was distributed to 24 artisans who were engaged in displaying handicrafts, jewellery, carpets, woodwork, textiles, and other traditional crafts.

    “The newly elected government, blessed by the people of Delhi, stands firmly with the victims. Cheques of Rs 5 lakh each have been distributed to all affected artisans, and six months’ rent for their shops has been waived,” Gupta said.

    The Delhi CM assured that the process of justice will no longer face delays and that every rightful claim will be settled on time.

    Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, who was present during the cheque distribution ceremony, said the government is committed to protecting the interests of artisans and extending all necessary support to them. He added that the Delhi government stands with them, and through this ex gratia relief, aims to help them regain their footing.

    “Our arts and crafts are the soul of our cultural heritage. Preserving them and supporting their custodians is our collective responsibility,” he said.

    — IANS

  • Mild tremors felt in Delhi-NCR, second earthquake in two days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mild tremors were felt across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday evening after an earthquake struck Haryana’s Jhajjar for the second day in a row.

    According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), a 3.7 magnitude quake hit Jhajjar at 7.49 pm at a depth of 10 km. Jhajjar lies about 60 km from the national capital.

    On Thursday morning, a stronger 4.4 magnitude earthquake had jolted the same area around 9 am, causing brief panic among residents.

    There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

  • NCC ideal for India’s youth: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday chaired the first Governing Council Meeting of the National Cadet Corps Alumni Association (NCCAA) at South Block, New Delhi. Addressing the delegation, the Defence Minister described the NCC as “a platform that presents an ideal for the youth of the country.”

    He termed former NCC cadets as strong pillars of India who are contributing to the nation’s development across diverse fields — not passively, but as active drivers of change.

    “We need to include the guidance of our former cadets to accelerate the goal of national development,” he said, expressing confidence that the NCCAA will provide new energy and direction to the NCC.

    Singh also exhorted the NCC to spread the values and qualities of its cadets to a larger section of the population under the spirit of NCC Plus.

    “NCC instills these values in the youth who are associated with it. Our effort should be to ensure that these values reach even those who could not join the NCC,” the Defence Minister said.

    He further highlighted that the NCCAA can play an active role in nation-building efforts through programmes such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Swachhta Abhiyan, and various community development and social service schemes, which have the potential to impact a large segment of the population.

    Lauding the NCC for its significant contribution to the all-round development of the youth, he said, “In the true spirit of its motto ‘Unity & Discipline,’ the NCC has always been committed to national unity and nation-building. It has helped lakhs of youth, including students from remote areas, to become disciplined and motivated.”

    The NCCAA is a flagship association of NCC alumni, aimed at carrying forward the work of the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation by bringing together former and current cadets under one umbrella and enhancing their participation in the nation-building process.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the first registered member of the association, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is the second.

    The meeting was attended by Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Department of Education) Sanjay Kumar, Secretary (Department of Youth Affairs) Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence Dipti Mohil Chawla, DGNCC Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, Joint Secretary (Training) Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, CEO LD Remedial World Bala Saraswathy Nair, and Secretary, NCCAA Col Gagan Sharma.

    —IANS

  • Three in four Bihar voters have submitted forms in SIR drive: ECI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Three out of every four electors in Bihar have submitted their enumeration forms as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, taking the total coverage of the drive to 74.39 per cent, an official from the Election Commission of India (ECI) said on Friday.

    “As of 6 p.m. on Friday, 5.87 crore enumeration forms — 74.39 per cent of the total — have been collected over the last 17 days since the issuance of SIR instructions on June 24. Forms can be submitted until July 25,” the ECI said in a statement.

    The official added that with 14 days remaining until the final deadline, the rest of the exercise is expected to be completed on schedule.

    In the second phase of SIR, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are conducting door-to-door visits to assist electors and collect the filled-in enumeration forms, the statement said.

    Field-level officials, including 38 District Registration Officers (DROs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) covering all 243 Assembly Constituencies, and 963 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), are closely monitoring the progress of the drive.

    Digitisation and uploading of forms are also proceeding smoothly. According to Para 3(h) of the SIR guidelines, BLOs have successfully digitised and uploaded 3.73 crore forms via the BLO App/ECINet, out of the total collected so far.

    “A new module has been implemented in ECINet today for verification of the uploaded forms by AEROs and EROs,” the ECI added.

    A total of 77,895 BLOs — including 20,603 newly appointed officers and other election staff — are working round the clock to complete the process. Additionally, over four lakh volunteers are supporting elderly, disabled, sick, and other vulnerable citizens. A proactive force of 1.56 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs), appointed by recognised political parties, is also assisting in the effort.

    Earlier, the Supreme Court asked the ECI to consider “in the interest of justice” whether documents such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, and Ration Cards could be accepted for voter verification during the SIR in poll-bound Bihar.

    A Bench of Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Joymalya Bagchi was hearing petitions that challenged the ECI’s June 26 directive to conduct the SIR, arguing that it could “arbitrarily” disenfranchise lakhs of voters and potentially impact free and fair elections.

    Noting that the draft revised electoral rolls are scheduled to be published in August, the Supreme Court listed the matter for further hearing on July 28 before a regular Bench.

    —IANS

  • Three in four Bihar voters have submitted forms in SIR drive: ECI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Three out of every four electors in Bihar have submitted their enumeration forms as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, taking the total coverage of the drive to 74.39 per cent, an official from the Election Commission of India (ECI) said on Friday.

    “As of 6 p.m. on Friday, 5.87 crore enumeration forms — 74.39 per cent of the total — have been collected over the last 17 days since the issuance of SIR instructions on June 24. Forms can be submitted until July 25,” the ECI said in a statement.

    The official added that with 14 days remaining until the final deadline, the rest of the exercise is expected to be completed on schedule.

    In the second phase of SIR, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are conducting door-to-door visits to assist electors and collect the filled-in enumeration forms, the statement said.

    Field-level officials, including 38 District Registration Officers (DROs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) covering all 243 Assembly Constituencies, and 963 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), are closely monitoring the progress of the drive.

    Digitisation and uploading of forms are also proceeding smoothly. According to Para 3(h) of the SIR guidelines, BLOs have successfully digitised and uploaded 3.73 crore forms via the BLO App/ECINet, out of the total collected so far.

    “A new module has been implemented in ECINet today for verification of the uploaded forms by AEROs and EROs,” the ECI added.

    A total of 77,895 BLOs — including 20,603 newly appointed officers and other election staff — are working round the clock to complete the process. Additionally, over four lakh volunteers are supporting elderly, disabled, sick, and other vulnerable citizens. A proactive force of 1.56 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs), appointed by recognised political parties, is also assisting in the effort.

    Earlier, the Supreme Court asked the ECI to consider “in the interest of justice” whether documents such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, and Ration Cards could be accepted for voter verification during the SIR in poll-bound Bihar.

    A Bench of Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Joymalya Bagchi was hearing petitions that challenged the ECI’s June 26 directive to conduct the SIR, arguing that it could “arbitrarily” disenfranchise lakhs of voters and potentially impact free and fair elections.

    Noting that the draft revised electoral rolls are scheduled to be published in August, the Supreme Court listed the matter for further hearing on July 28 before a regular Bench.

    —IANS