NewzIntel.com

Category: Government of India

  • Netanyahu vows to eliminate Iran nuclear threat as Trump keeps world guessing on military action

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel destroyed Iran’s internal security headquarters in Tehran on Thursday while Iranian missiles struck a major Israeli medical facility, marking a dramatic escalation in the seven-day conflict between the West Asian adversaries. The simultaneous attacks on critical infrastructure represent the most intense phase of direct military confrontation between the two nations in recent history.

    Israeli forces targeted multiple strategic sites across Iran, including government facilities in Tehran and the nearby city of Karaj, as well as Payam airport. The strikes came hours after Iran launched missiles that hit the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, southern Israel, which serves as a primary treatment facility for Israeli military personnel. While the hospital sustained significant structural damage, casualty reports remained limited as portions of the facility had been evacuated in anticipation of potential attacks.

    Israeli Leadership Condemns Attack, Vows Escalation

    The attack on Soroka Medical Center has sparked strong condemnation from Israeli leadership. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have announced plans to intensify military operations targeting strategic sites across Iran. The Israeli military has already launched strikes on key locations, including the Arak Heavy Water Reactor and facilities in Natanz, as part of efforts to degrade Iran’s nuclear and missile production capabilities.

    Iranian state media confirmed there is no radiation threat from the Arak facility, adding that personnel had been safely evacuated before the attack. While Netanyahu clarified that regime change in Iran is not an official Israeli objective, he acknowledged that sustained military pressure on government institutions could eventually lead to such an outcome.

    U.S. Signals Deliberate Ambiguity

    Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has maintained a deliberately vague stance when pressed about possible American military involvement in Israel’s strikes on Iran. The White House has signaled that a decision on whether the United States will join the conflict is expected within the next two weeks.

    Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has responded to American statements with warnings of “irreversible harm” should the United States choose to intervene militarily. European nations, while condemning Iran as a destabilizing force and reiterating that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, have also called for diplomacy and urged both sides to reduce tensions.

    Diplomatic Push from Europe

    There’s a push for renewed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, with some European officials stressing that diplomacy, not regime change, is the preferred approach. The EU has also activated civil protection mechanisms to assist citizens wishing to leave the region.

  • ECI introduces key reforms in bye-polls, paving the way for tech-driven elections

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday marked a milestone in electoral reforms during the bye-elections to five Assembly Constituencies (ACs), with the successful rollout of several new initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and voter convenience.

    The bye-polls were conducted in 24-Kadi (SC) and 87-Visavadar (Gujarat), 35-Nilambur (Kerala), 64-Ludhiana West (Punjab), and 80-Kaliganj (West Bengal), involving a total of 1,354 polling stations.

    These elections were notable for implementing, for the first time, a mobile deposit facility, upgraded Voter Turnout Reporting (VTR), 100% webcasting, and individual mock poll training for all Presiding Officers.

    Mobile Deposit Facility for Voters

    Acknowledging the widespread use of mobile phones and the difficulties faced by voters—particularly senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities (PwDs)—the ECI introduced a mobile deposit facility at all polling stations. Voters were able to safely deposit their mobile phones in designated pigeonhole boxes or jute bags at the entrance of polling booths. Volunteers were stationed at these points to assist voters, ensuring a smooth and secure experience.

    Faster and Transparent Voter Turnout Reporting

    In a major technological upgrade, the voter turnout sharing process was revamped. Presiding Officers were equipped with the new ECINET App, allowing them to directly enter voter turnout data every two hours on polling day. This real-time data was automatically aggregated at the constituency level and published at regular intervals, ensuring greater transparency and timeliness.

    Most notably, the final voter turnout data was entered immediately after the close of polling, even before the Presiding Officers departed from the station. This marks a departure from the previous system, where final turnout figures were often delayed due to manual reporting and post-poll formalities. In areas with limited network connectivity, the app allowed offline data entry, which could be synced once connectivity was restored.

    100% Webcasting Ensures Robust Monitoring

    For the first time, webcasting was conducted at nearly 100% of polling stations, covering all but one station across the five constituencies. This allowed real-time monitoring of polling activities to ensure compliance with electoral procedures. Dedicated monitoring teams at the Returning Officer (RO), District Election Officer (DEO), and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) levels oversaw the proceedings and promptly addressed any issues.

    Revival of Pre-Poll Electoral Roll Revision

    Adding another milestone, the ECI also carried out a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of the Electoral Rolls before the bye-polls—an exercise undertaken for the first time in nearly two decades in the context of bye-elections. This ensured up-to-date voter rolls and broader enfranchisement.

  • High humidity persists in Delhi despite temperature dip; IMD issues yellow alert for rain

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Residents of the national capital continued to reel under oppressive humidity on Friday, even as both maximum and minimum temperatures dropped slightly, offering little to no respite from the discomfort.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi over the next five days, forecasting intermittent rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the region.

    According to the IMD, Delhi’s maximum temperature on Friday is expected to remain below 36°C, with the minimum around 27°C. However, high humidity levels continue to make conditions uncomfortable.

    On Saturday, temperatures are likely to hover around 37°C (maximum) and 28°C (minimum), with humidity levels ranging between 80% and 82%.

    The IMD has predicted light to moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, during the evenings and nights of June 20 and 21.

    Between June 22 and 25, the capital is likely to witness cloudy skies, moderate to heavy showers, and thunderstorms, with wind speeds reaching 30–40 km/h. During this period, temperatures may further dip to 35°C (maximum) and 26–27°C (minimum), with humidity possibly soaring to 90%.

    In view of the forecast, authorities have advised residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and to avoid waterlogged areas and vulnerable roads.

    Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality showed improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to 76 (satisfactory) at 8 a.m. on Friday, down from 99 (moderate) recorded a day earlier, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

  • Europe launches diplomatic push as Israel-Iran conflict enters second week

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    World powers initiated high-stakes diplomatic efforts on Friday to defuse escalating tensions between Israel and Iran as the conflict entered its second week. Senior European diplomats met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva, seeking to prevent further escalation.

    The emergency talks come amid heightened military activity, with Israeli forces destroying three Iranian missile launchers poised to strike Israeli territory. Meanwhile, Iranian missiles continued targeting locations across Israel, including areas near major international companies in Beersheba. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that some Iranian missiles landed directly in Beersheba without interception, with one projectile falling near Microsoft facilities in the southern Israeli city.

    Diplomatic Talks in Geneva

    Senior diplomats from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany gathered with Abbas Araghchi in Geneva, accompanied by the European Union’s foreign policy chief. The negotiations aim to establish a two-week diplomatic window to de-escalate tensions, focusing on Tehran’s nuclear program.

    These talks come amid rising global concern that the conflict could spiral into open warfare, destabilizing West Asia and precipitating a humanitarian crisis. The diplomatic push also serves as a prelude to next week’s NATO summit in The Hague, where regional security will be a key focus.

    European officials underscored the urgency of dialogue, cautioning that continued military pressure on Iran risks regime collapse and widespread displacement. Meanwhile, Russia condemned Israel’s military actions, expressing support for Tehran and calling for peaceful resolutions.

    U.S. President Donald Trump has maintained strategic ambiguity on American involvement, stating that a decision will be made within two weeks.

    Escalation and Regional Impact

    European officials highlighted the potential humanitarian fallout should Iran’s government collapse under sustained military pressure. Israel’s military campaign has expanded beyond conventional targets, hitting state institutions such as police headquarters and state television offices in Tehran.

    Western and regional sources indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aims not only to degrade Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities but also to destabilize the core structures of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s regime.

    Divisions within the European Union

    The European Union remains divided over the legitimacy of Israel’s military actions. While France, Germany, and Italy support Israel’s right to self-defense, other member states question the legal justification for offensive operations against Iran under international law.

    The EU has called for restraint and adherence to international law, warning of severe risks, including radioactive contamination and widespread humanitarian consequences.

    Russia’s Position and U.S. Ambiguity

    Russia has strongly condemned what it terms Israel’s “unprovoked military assaults on a sovereign UN member state,” positioning itself as a proponent of diplomacy while backing Iran. The ongoing uncertainty from Washington, as President Trump weighs options, has left regional actors uncertain about the conflict’s trajectory.

    The Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in 639 casualties in Iran.

     

  • Yellow alert for rain in Delhi-NCR for next 5 days, temperature drops

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The weather has turned pleasant across Delhi-NCR as drop in both minimum and maximum temperature has brought relief to the people from the scorching heat.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the next five days, forecasting rain and strong winds across the region.

    On June 20, the maximum temperature is not likely to exceed 36 degrees Celsius, and the minimum is 27 degrees Celsius.

    On June 21, the temperature is expected to hover around 37 degrees C (max) and 28 degrees C (min), with humidity between 80 per cent and 82 per cent.

    According to the IMD, light to moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, is expected during the evenings and nights of June 20 and 21.

    Between June 22 and 25, the region is likely to witness cloudy skies, moderate to heavy rain, and thunderstorms, with wind speeds reaching 30-40 km/h. During this period, the maximum temperature may drop further to 35 degrees Celsius and the minimum to 26-27 degrees C. The weather department said humidity could climb up to 90 per cent, keeping the atmosphere sticky.

    However, the continuous showers have led to waterlogging in several low-lying areas of Gurugram, Noida, and East Delhi, disrupting movement. Roads remain submerged at some places, prompting the local administrations to deploy teams for drainage work.

    June 26 is expected to bring clear skies, with no weather warnings issued. The IMD has forecast partly cloudy conditions, offering respite from the persistent rain.

    Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors unless necessary, especially during thunderstorms, and to avoid waterlogged routes.

    The traffic police have also issued advisories to ensure safer commuting during this wet spell.

    Delhi’s air quality has also shown marked improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) slipping into the ‘satisfactory’ category on Thursday after remaining ‘poor’ for several days.

    According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 76 at 8 a.m. on June 20, compared to 99 a day earlier.

    (IANS)

  • Yellow alert for rain in Delhi-NCR for next 5 days, temperature drops

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The weather has turned pleasant across Delhi-NCR as drop in both minimum and maximum temperature has brought relief to the people from the scorching heat.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the next five days, forecasting rain and strong winds across the region.

    On June 20, the maximum temperature is not likely to exceed 36 degrees Celsius, and the minimum is 27 degrees Celsius.

    On June 21, the temperature is expected to hover around 37 degrees C (max) and 28 degrees C (min), with humidity between 80 per cent and 82 per cent.

    According to the IMD, light to moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, is expected during the evenings and nights of June 20 and 21.

    Between June 22 and 25, the region is likely to witness cloudy skies, moderate to heavy rain, and thunderstorms, with wind speeds reaching 30-40 km/h. During this period, the maximum temperature may drop further to 35 degrees Celsius and the minimum to 26-27 degrees C. The weather department said humidity could climb up to 90 per cent, keeping the atmosphere sticky.

    However, the continuous showers have led to waterlogging in several low-lying areas of Gurugram, Noida, and East Delhi, disrupting movement. Roads remain submerged at some places, prompting the local administrations to deploy teams for drainage work.

    June 26 is expected to bring clear skies, with no weather warnings issued. The IMD has forecast partly cloudy conditions, offering respite from the persistent rain.

    Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors unless necessary, especially during thunderstorms, and to avoid waterlogged routes.

    The traffic police have also issued advisories to ensure safer commuting during this wet spell.

    Delhi’s air quality has also shown marked improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) slipping into the ‘satisfactory’ category on Thursday after remaining ‘poor’ for several days.

    According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 76 at 8 a.m. on June 20, compared to 99 a day earlier.

    (IANS)

  • The backbone turns twenty: How NIXI quietly wired India for a digital future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    From grocery shopping through UPI to smart classrooms in remote villages, much of India’s digital progress over the past two decades has depended on something that most citizens never think about: fast, secure internet infrastructure. At the centre of this invisible but essential ecosystem is the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), which turned 20 on Thursday.

    Set up in 2003 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), NIXI has played a key role in ensuring that India’s internet remains local in routing, robust in performance, and ready for future demands. It currently operates 77 Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) across the country, which help domestic traffic stay within India’s borders — reducing latency, increasing speed, and enhancing security.

    A resilient internet, a resilient India

    In a statement marking the occasion, NIXI CEO Dr Devesh Tyagi said, “A resilient internet is the foundation of a resilient India. As we celebrate NIXI Day, we renew our commitment to making the internet faster, safer, and more inclusive.”

    The importance of the organisation came into sharp focus during the COVID-19 lockdowns. With physical movement restricted, internet traffic surged. Doctors adopted telemedicine, schools transitioned to online learning, and government services remained accessible through digital platforms. Underpinning all of this was an infrastructure designed to cope with scale and crisis — one that NIXI had quietly built over the years.

    Beyond speed: trust, inclusion, and language

    While speed and reliability have always been priorities, NIXI has also focused on inclusivity and localisation. Through its IRINN division, it is guiding India’s transition to IPv6, which will be essential as the country moves deeper into the era of connected devices, AI, and quantum computing.

    It also facilitates domain name registration in Indian languages, supporting .IN and .भारत, helping small businesses and individuals get online in their own scripts and tongues — a step that aligns with the broader push for digital inclusion.

    What’s next: smarter, more resilient networks

    With emerging technologies reshaping the digital landscape, NIXI is evolving too. Its roadmap for the future includes AI-driven smart traffic routing, IXPs in disaster-prone and underserved regions, deeper collaboration with global internet governance forums, and boosting uptake of vernacular domain names.

    This next phase is about preparing the Indian internet for scale, security, and smart infrastructure — while ensuring that no region or user is left behind.

    In a world increasingly defined by data, connectivity, and digital dependence, NIXI’s two-decade journey remains largely invisible to the average user. But its impact is felt every day — in the instant UPI payment at a vegetable stall, the buffering-free video class in a village, or a seamless government application process.

    As India pushes toward a $5 trillion digital economy, NIXI’s role as the silent enabler of connectivity becomes more critical than ever.

  • Gujarat to mark Yoga Day with state-level event in PM Modi’s hometown Vadnagar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Gujarat will mark the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21 with a state-level event in Vadnagar, the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The main celebration will take place at Sarmishta Lake, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Health Minister Rishikesh Patel, and Minister of State for Sports Harsh Sanghavi expected to attend.

    Prime Minister will lead the national event from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. More than 1.5 crore people are expected to participate across over 60,000 locations in the state.

    Yoga sessions will be held in 45,000 primary schools, 12,500 secondary schools, 2,600 colleges and three universities, involving around 5.73 lakh students and teachers. Events are also planned across 18,226 gram panchayats, 251 taluka panchayats, and all 33 district police headquarters.

    The state government has extended the campaign to 287 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 1,477 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 6,500 wellness centres, 30 prisons and 1,152 police stations. Mass yoga sessions are also scheduled at 100 Amrit Sarovar lakes.

    In the run-up to the event, yoga and ‘surya namaskar’ sessions were held at 11 locations in Vadnagar, including Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Tana-Riri Garden, Kirti Toran, the Vadnagar Museum, and the local railway station. Additionally, over 35 large-scale yoga events — each with more than 1,000 participants — were organised in Junagadh, Porbandar, Surat, Vadodara and Ahmedabad.

    Last year, Gujarat recorded the highest participation in the country with 1.31 crore people taking part in Yoga Day activities.

  • 100 tourist destinations, 50 cultural sites to mark Yoga Day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of Culture will celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21 by hosting yoga sessions at 100 iconic tourist destinations and 50 cultural sites across the country. The initiative is part of a broader effort to blend India’s rich cultural heritage with its ancient wellness traditions.
     
    These events will run in parallel with the main national celebration, which will take place in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the observance. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan are also expected to be present at the Visakhapatnam event, organised by the Ministry of Ayush.
     
    Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will join the celebrations at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, one of the many historic venues selected for the nationwide programme.
     
    Celebrations at heritage sites
     
    Yoga sessions will be held at several UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Charaideo Maidam (Assam), Rani Ki Vav and Dholavira (Gujarat), Hampi and Pattadakal (Karnataka), Khajuraho and Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh), the Sun Temple in Konark (Odisha), Elephanta Caves (Maharashtra), and the Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu).
     
    Apart from these, prominent cultural and historical landmarks such as Golconda Fort and Salarjung Museum (Hyderabad), Humayun’s Tomb, Purana Qila and Safdarjung Tomb (Delhi), Jallianwala Bagh (Amritsar), Chittorgarh and Kumbhalgarh Forts (Rajasthan), Leh Palace (Ladakh), Pari Mahal (Srinagar), Bekal Fort (Kerala), and Hazarduari and Cooch Behar Palaces (West Bengal) will also host yoga demonstrations.
     
    Institutional support
     
    Various offices and institutions under the Ministry of Culture — including its attached, subordinate, and autonomous bodies — are actively involved in executing the initiative across states. The Ministry described the effort as a means to “reinforce the commitment to linking India’s cultural legacy with the wellness traditions of yoga.”
     
    Since its inception in 2015, International Day of Yoga has been celebrated with increasing participation across India and globally, aimed at promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga.

  • PM Modi, national leaders extend birthday wishes to President Murmu

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in extending birthday greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, lauding her life and leadership as a source of inspiration for millions across the country.
     
    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Warmest birthday wishes to Rashtrapati Ji. Her life and leadership continue to inspire crores of people across the country. Her unwavering commitment to public service, social justice and inclusive development are a beacon of hope and strength for everyone. She has always worked to empower the poor and downtrodden. May she be blessed with a long and healthy life in service of the people.”
     
    President Murmu, who assumed office as the 15th President of India on July 25, 2022, is the country’s first tribal woman to occupy the highest constitutional post. Her journey from grassroots politics to the Rashtrapati Bhavan is often cited as a testament to the strength and inclusivity of Indian democracy.
     
    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also conveyed his greetings, noting that her rise to the presidency reflects the robust democratic foundations of the country. “Her steadfast commitment to social justice, empowerment of the poor and inclusive growth continues to inspire the nation,” he posted on X.
     
    BJP National President and Union Minister J.P. Nadda, in his message, praised the President’s contribution to tribal welfare and her focus on education and healthcare. “Your dedication towards public welfare and building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ is inspiring,” he wrote.
     
    Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari extended his wishes for her good health and long life, while Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, writing

  • Two decades of NIXI: The quiet engine powering India’s digital future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    From grocery shopping through UPI to smart classrooms in remote villages, much of India’s digital progress over the past two decades has depended on something that most citizens never think about: fast, secure internet infrastructure. At the centre of this invisible but essential ecosystem is the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), which turned 20 on Thursday.

    Set up in 2003 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), NIXI has played a key role in ensuring that India’s internet remains local in routing, robust in performance, and ready for future demands. It currently operates 77 Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) across the country, which help domestic traffic stay within India’s borders — reducing latency, increasing speed, and enhancing security.

    A resilient internet, a resilient India

    In a statement marking the occasion, NIXI CEO Dr Devesh Tyagi said, “A resilient internet is the foundation of a resilient India. As we celebrate NIXI Day, we renew our commitment to making the internet faster, safer, and more inclusive.”

    The organisation’s role came into sharp focus during the COVID-19 lockdowns. As physical mobility shut down, internet traffic surged. Doctors turned to telemedicine. Schools moved online. Government services continued digitally. Underpinning all of this was an infrastructure designed to cope with scale and crisis — one that NIXI had quietly built over the years.

    Beyond speed: trust, inclusion, and language

    While speed and reliability have always been priorities, NIXI has also focused on inclusivity and localisation. Through its IRINN division, it is guiding India’s transition to IPv6, which will be essential as the country moves deeper into the era of connected devices, AI, and quantum computing.

    It also facilitates domain name registration in Indian languages, supporting .IN and .भारत, helping small businesses and individuals get online in their own scripts and tongues — a step that aligns with the broader push for digital inclusion.

    What’s next: smarter, more resilient networks

    With emerging technologies reshaping the digital landscape, NIXI is evolving too. Its roadmap for the future includes AI-driven smart traffic routing, IXPs in disaster-prone and underserved regions, deeper collaboration with global internet governance forums, and boosting uptake of vernacular domain names.

    This next phase is about preparing the Indian internet for scale, security, and smart infrastructure — while ensuring that no region or user is left behind.

    The quiet enabler

    In a world increasingly defined by data, connectivity, and digital dependence, NIXI’s two-decade journey remains largely invisible to the average user. But its impact is felt every day — in the instant UPI payment at a vegetable stall, the buffering-free video class in a village, or a seamless government application process.

    As India pushes toward a $5 trillion digital economy, NIXI’s role as the silent enabler of connectivity becomes more critical than ever.

  • Russia says any use of tactical nuclear weapons by US in Iran would be catastrophic, TASS reports

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Potential use of tactical nuclear weapons by the United States in Iran would be a catastrophic development, Russian state news agency TASS quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying on Friday.

    Peskov was commenting on what he called speculative media reports about that possibility. His comments, as reported by TASS, did not mention any media by name.

    The Guardian newspaper reported that U.S. defence officials were briefed that using conventional bombs against Iran’s underground uranium enrichment facility at Fordow would not be enough to destroy it completely, and that destroying it would require initial attacks with conventional bombs and then dropping a tactical nuclear weapon from a B-2 bomber.

    However, the British newspaper said President Donald Trump was not considering using a tactical nuclear weapon on Fordow and the possibility was not presented by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, in meetings in the White House Situation Room.

    Trump said on Thursday that any decision on potential U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict would be made within two weeks.

    Russia, which has close ties with Iran, has warned strongly against U.S. military intervention on the side of Israel.

    (Reuters)

  • LA Lakers to be sold in NBA record-breaking $10 billion deal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Buss family is entering an agreement to sell a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, ESPN reported on Wednesday, marking the end of an era for one of the NBA’s most influential owners.

    Mark Walter, the CEO and chairman of holding company TWG Global, is set to take the majority ownership under the agreement which values the Lakers at $10 billion, ESPN reported, making it the largest-ever sale of a professional sports team.

    The Boston Celtics had become the latest NBA franchise to change ownership in March, closing a $6.05 billion sale to an investment group led by Bill Chisholm, a record figure for the league at the time.

    Walter, already an established figure in Los Angeles sports, has existing shares in MLB team Los Angeles Dodgers and WNBA franchise Los Angeles Sparks.

    The Lakers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    The late Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers in 1979 and turned it into one of the most popular franchises in all of professional sports, winning five championships during their now-iconic “Showtime” era in the 1980s.

    His daughter, Jeanie Buss, took over as principal owner after Jerry died in 2013, making her one of the most powerful women in sports.

    Jeanie Buss will stay on as governor after the sale, according to the ESPN report.

    Lakers Hall of Fame point guard Earvin “Magic” Johnson – a former player, coach, and executive with the team during the Buss family’s tenure — congratulated both parties on reaching the agreement.

    “Laker fans should be ecstatic. A few things I can tell you about Mark – he is driven by winning, excellence, and doing everything the right way,” Johnson, who is also a co-owner of the Dodgers alongside Walter, said in a post on X.

    “He will put in the resources needed to win! I can understand why Jeanie sold the team to Mark Walter because they are just alike.

    “Job well done to my sister Jeanie Buss for striking an incredible deal and picking the right person to carry on the Lakers legacy and tradition of winning… Mark Walter is the best choice and will be the best caretaker of the Laker brand.”

    -Reuters

  • LA Lakers to be sold in NBA record-breaking $10 billion deal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Buss family is entering an agreement to sell a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, ESPN reported on Wednesday, marking the end of an era for one of the NBA’s most influential owners.

    Mark Walter, the CEO and chairman of holding company TWG Global, is set to take the majority ownership under the agreement which values the Lakers at $10 billion, ESPN reported, making it the largest-ever sale of a professional sports team.

    The Boston Celtics had become the latest NBA franchise to change ownership in March, closing a $6.05 billion sale to an investment group led by Bill Chisholm, a record figure for the league at the time.

    Walter, already an established figure in Los Angeles sports, has existing shares in MLB team Los Angeles Dodgers and WNBA franchise Los Angeles Sparks.

    The Lakers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    The late Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers in 1979 and turned it into one of the most popular franchises in all of professional sports, winning five championships during their now-iconic “Showtime” era in the 1980s.

    His daughter, Jeanie Buss, took over as principal owner after Jerry died in 2013, making her one of the most powerful women in sports.

    Jeanie Buss will stay on as governor after the sale, according to the ESPN report.

    Lakers Hall of Fame point guard Earvin “Magic” Johnson – a former player, coach, and executive with the team during the Buss family’s tenure — congratulated both parties on reaching the agreement.

    “Laker fans should be ecstatic. A few things I can tell you about Mark – he is driven by winning, excellence, and doing everything the right way,” Johnson, who is also a co-owner of the Dodgers alongside Walter, said in a post on X.

    “He will put in the resources needed to win! I can understand why Jeanie sold the team to Mark Walter because they are just alike.

    “Job well done to my sister Jeanie Buss for striking an incredible deal and picking the right person to carry on the Lakers legacy and tradition of winning… Mark Walter is the best choice and will be the best caretaker of the Laker brand.”

    -Reuters

  • Europeans try to coax Iran back to diplomacy, as Trump considers strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    European foreign ministers are set to meet their Iranian counterpart on Friday aiming to create a pathway back to diplomacy over its contested nuclear programme despite the U.S. considering joining Israeli strikes against Iran.

    Ministers from Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, as well as the European Union’s foreign policy chief spoke to Abbas Araqchi earlier this week and have been coordinating with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

    In a rare call, they pressed upon Araqchi the need to return to the negotiating table and avoid further escalation. At Iran’s suggestion, the two sides agreed to meet face-to-face.

    The talks will be held in Geneva, where an initial accord between Iran and world powers to curb its nuclear programme in return for sanctions lifting was struck in 2013 before a comprehensive deal in 2015. They come after negotiations between Iran and the United States collapsed when Israel launched what it called Operation Rising Lion against Iran’s nuclear facilities and ballistic capabilities on June 12.

    “The Iranians can’t sit down with the Americans whereas we can,” said a European diplomat. “We will tell them to come back to the table to discuss the nuclear issue before the worst-case scenario, while raising our concerns over its ballistic missiles, support to Russia and detention of our citizens.”

    The European powers, who were not part of Iran’s nuclear negotiations with the United States, had grown increasingly frustrated by the U.S. negotiating strategy in the talks. They deemed some of the demands unrealistic, while fearing the possibility of a weak initial political framework that would lead to open-ended negotiations.

    Two diplomats said there were no great expectations for a breakthrough in Geneva, where the European Union’s foreign policy chief will also attend.

    But they said it was vital to engage with Iran because once the war stopped, Iran’s nuclear programme would still remain unresolved given that it would be impossible to eradicate the know-how acquired, leaving it potentially able to clandestinely rebuild its programme.

    An Iranian official said Tehran has always welcomed diplomacy, but urged the E3 to use all available means to pressure Israel to halt its attacks on Iran.

    “Iran remains committed to diplomacy as the only path to resolving disputes — but diplomacy is under attack,” the official said.

    Speaking after holding talks in Washington with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said there was a window for diplomacy.

    “We discussed how a deal could avoid a deepening conflict. A window now exists within the next two weeks to achieve a diplomatic solution,” he said on X, referring to the White House saying on Thursday that President Donald Trump would give two weeks before deciding whether to join Israeli strikes.

    Prior to Israel’s strikes, the E3 and U.S. put forward a resolution that was approved by the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency, a U.N. watchdog, which declared Iran in breach of its nuclear non-proliferation obligations.

    As part of last week’s IAEA resolution, European officials had said they could refer Iran to the United Nations Security Council later in the summer to add pressure on Iran if there was no progress in the nuclear talks.

    That would be separate to them reimposing UN sanctions, known as the snapback mechanism, before October 18 when the 2015 accord expires.

    The Europeans are the only ones who can launch the snapback mechanism, with diplomats saying the three countries had looked to set a final deadline at the end of August to launch it.

    “Iran has repeatedly stated that triggering snapback will have serious consequences,” the Iranian official said.

    (Reuters)

  • Pakistan fears militants will thrive on restive border if Iran destabilised

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Separatist and jihadist militants on the Pakistan-Iran border could take advantage of any collapse of authority in Iran, fears that Pakistan’s army chief pressed in a meeting this week with the U.S. President Donald Trump.

    Anti-Iranian and anti-Pakistan outfits operate on both sides of the 560-mile (900km) long border. As Israel bombs Iran’s nuclear program, its officials have repeatedly indicated that they are seeking to destabilize the Iranian government or see it toppled.

    As well as worrying about chaos spilling over from Iran, Pakistan is concerned about the precedent set by Israel of attacking the nuclear installations of another country. Nuclear-armed rivals Pakistan and India fought a four-day conflict in May.

    Following a Wednesday lunch at the White House with Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Trump said: “They’re not happy about anything”, referring to Pakistan’s views on the Israel-Iran conflict.

    Pakistan’s military said on Thursday that the two had discussed Iran,“with both leaders emphasizing the importance of resolution of the conflict”.

    Pakistan has condemned Israel’s attack on Iran as a violation of international law.

    “This is for us a very serious issue what is happening in our brotherly country of Iran,” Shafqat Ali Khan, spokesman for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said on Thursday. “It imperils the entire regional security structures, it impacts us deeply.”

    Some of the militant groups on the border have welcomed the upheaval.

    Jaish al-Adl (JaA), an Iranian jihadist group formed from ethnic Baluch and Sunni Muslim minorities and which operates from Pakistan, said Israel’s conflict with Iran was a great opportunity.

    “Jaish al-Adl extends the hand of brotherhood and friendship to all the people of Iran and calls on all people, especially the people of Baluchistan, as well as the armed forces, to join the ranks of the Resistance,” the group said in a statement on June 13.

    Conversely, Pakistan fears that separatist militants from its own Baluch minority, which are based in Iran, will also seek to step up attacks.

    “There’s a fear of ungoverned spaces, which would be fertile ground for terrorist groups,” said Maleeha Lodhi, a former Pakistani ambassador to Washington.

    Pakistan has unstable borders with Taliban-run Afghanistan and arch-rival India. It does not want to add another volatile frontier on its long border with Iran.

    The Iran-Pakistan border region is populated with ethnic Baluch, a minority in both countries who have long complained about discrimination and launched separatist movements. On Pakistan’s side, the region is a province called Balochistan and in Iran it is Sistan-Baluchistan.

    Until Israel’s bombing of Iran, Tehran was closer to Pakistan’s arch-rival India. Pakistan and Iran had even traded air strikes last year, accusing each other of harboring Baluch militants. But the attack on Iran has upended alliances, as India has not condemned Israel’s bombing campaign.

    China has also said that it is deeply concerned about the security situation in Balochistan, with the area being a focus of Beijing’s multi-billion dollar infrastructure investment program in Pakistan, centred on the new Chinese-run port of Gwadar. Baluch militant groups in Pakistan have previously targeted Chinese personnel and projects.

    On Iranian side of the border, Tehran has at different times accused Pakistan, Gulf nations, Israel and the United States of backing the anti-Iran Baluch groups.

    Simbal Khan, an analyst based in Islamabad, said the different Baluch groups could morph into a “greater Baluchistan” movement which seeks to carve out a new nation from the Baluch areas of Pakistan and Iran.

    “They’re all going to fight together if this blows up,” said Khan.

    (Reuters)

  • Several injured in Russia’s overnight attack on Ukraine’s Odesa

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 14 people were injured when Russian drones attacked the Ukrainian Black Sea city of Odesa overnight, damaging high-rise buildings and railway infrastructure, local authorities said on Friday.

    Odesa is Ukraine’s largest Black Sea port, key for imports and exports, and has been under constant missile and drone attacks by Russia since the war began.

    “Despite the active work of air defence forces, there is damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, a higher education institution, a gas pipeline and private cars,” local governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram messenger.

    Kiper released photos of burning houses and charred high-rise buildings.

    Local emergencies service said that during the attack there were at least 10 drone strikes on residential buildings, causing massive fires.

    Ukraine’s air force said on Friday that Russia had launched 86 drones on Ukraine overnight.

    The military noted its air defence units shot down 34 drones while another 36 drones were lost – in reference to the Ukrainian military using electronic warfare to redirect them – or they were drone simulators that did not carry warheads.

    However, the military reported that drones hit 8 locations.

    Ukrainian state railways Ukrzaliznytsia reported that Odesa railway station was damaged during the attack, with power wires and rails damaged.

    Russian drones also attacked Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine overnight, damaging several private and multi-storey houses, Kharkiv officials said.

    (Reuters)

  • India, Central American Integration System hold virtual dialogue to deepen cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and the Central American Integration System (SICA) held a virtual dialogue on Wednesday to strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen engagement across key sectors. The meeting was co-chaired by Rajesh Vaishnaw, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, and Alejandro Solano, Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs of Costa Rica, which currently holds the Pro-Tempore Presidency of SICA.

    Senior officials from the SICA Secretariat, including the Director of International Cooperation, Carmen Marroquín, and representatives from SICA member countries also participated in the discussions.

    Highlighting the shared values of democracy, sustainable development, and South-South cooperation, the Indian side reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the region through its development partnership initiatives. These include the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), and a dedicated SME grant programme.

    Vaishnaw emphasized India’s readiness to collaborate with SICA in areas such as digital transformation, affordable healthcare, disaster resilience, and renewable energy, underscoring India’s success in these fields.

    SICA member countries appreciated India’s proactive and consistent support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and other natural disasters. Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation in critical sectors including food and nutritional security, health, connectivity, agriculture, digital infrastructure, energy, and trade and investment.

    The dialogue reaffirmed the commitment to sustained political engagement and regional cooperation, with Panama set to assume the SICA presidency later this year.

  • DGFT imposes new restrictions on imports of precious metal alloys and compounds

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued two new notifications aimed at regulating the import of certain precious metal alloys and chemical compounds.

    As per the notification issued on 17 June, the government has restricted the import of alloys of palladium, rhodium and iridium containing more than 1 % gold by weight. This expands the earlier restriction on platinum imports (issued on 5 March 2025) to cover the entire Customs Tariff Heading (CTH) 7110 at the 4-digit level, ensuring a uniform import policy across precious metals and their alloys.

    However, the import of alloys containing less than 1 % gold remains unrestricted, thereby safeguarding the interests of key industrial sectors such as electronics, automotive components, and specialised chemical manufacturing. This calibrated policy aims to strike a balance between trade facilitation and regulatory oversight.

    In a related move, DGFT has also issued another notification restricting the import of colloidal metals and certain compounds under CTH 2843. The restriction is intended to curb the misuse of chemical imports for bringing gold into the country in disguised forms.
    To support genuine industrial needs, imports under CTH 2843 will be permitted against an import authorisation, specifically for sectors such as electronics, electrical, and chemical manufacturing.

    Detailed notifications are available on the DGFT website at https://dgft.gov.in.

  • Indian stock market opens higher amid positive Asian cues

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets opened on a positive note on Friday, supported by firm cues from Asian peers. Gains in PSU bank, IT, and auto stocks contributed to the early momentum.

    At 9:25 a.m., the BSE Sensex was up 228.15 points, or 0.28%, at 81,590.02. The NSE Nifty also advanced, rising 55.10 points, or 0.22%, to 24,848.35.

    In sectoral indices, the Nifty Bank rose by 102.35 points (0.18%) to trade at 55,679.80. However, broader markets showed mixed trends. The Nifty Midcap 100 declined marginally by 16.85 points (0.03%) to 57,143.10, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 62.50 points (0.35%) to 17,950.60.

    Analysts noted that the Nifty has been consolidating within a range of 24,500 to 25,000 over the past month. This trend, they said, is likely to persist unless there is a decisive geopolitical development.

    “There is uncertainty surrounding the Israel-Iran conflict. A resolution or sudden end to the war could trigger a breakout on the upside. However, if the war drags on and crude prices rise above $85 per barrel, we may see pressure on the lower end of the range,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    Among the top gainers on the Sensex were Bajaj Finserv, UltraTech Cement, Mahindra & Mahindra, SBI, Axis Bank, and Sun Pharma. On the other hand, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance, Tech Mahindra, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Power Grid Corporation were among the major laggards.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak for the third consecutive session on June 19, with net purchases worth ₹934.62 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also remained net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹605.97 crore on the same day.

    Across Asia, markets in Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Shanghai were trading in the green. Jakarta was the only major market in the region trading in the red.

    Meanwhile, US markets remained closed on Thursday in observance of Juneteenth National Independence Day. In the previous session on Wednesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined by 44.14 points (0.10%) to close at 42,171.66. The S&P 500 ended 1.85 points lower (0.03%) at 5,980.87, while the Nasdaq gained 25.18 points (0.13%) to settle at 19,546.27.

  • US court lets Trump retain control of California National Guard for now

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. appeals court let Donald Trump on Thursday retain control over California’s National Guard while the state’s Democratic governor proceeds with a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Republican president’s use of the troops to quell protests and unrest in Los Angeles.

    A three-judge panel of the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals extended a pause it placed on U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer’s June 12 ruling that Trump had called the National Guard into federal service unlawfully.

    Breyer’s ruling was issued in a lawsuit against Trump’s action brought by Governor Gavin Newsom.

    Breyer ruled that Trump violated the U.S. law governing a president’s ability to take control of a state’s National Guard by failing to coordinate with the governor, and also found that the conditions set out under the statute to allow this move, such as a rebellion against federal authority, did not exist.

    Breyer ordered Trump to return control of California’s National Guard to Newsom. Hours after Breyer acted, the 9th Circuit panel put the judge’s move on hold temporarily.

    Amid protests and turmoil in Los Angeles over Trump’s immigration raids, the president on June 7 took control of California’s National Guard and deployed 4,000 troops against the wishes of Newsom. Trump also ordered 700 U.S. Marines to the city after sending in the National Guard. Breyer has not yet ruled on the legality of the Marine Corps mobilization.

    At a court hearing on Tuesday on whether to extend the pause on Breyer’s decision, members of the 9th Circuit panel questioned lawyers for California and the Trump administration on what role, if any, courts should have in reviewing Trump’s authority to deploy the troops.

    The law sets out three conditions under which a president can federalize state National Guard forces, including an invasion, a “rebellion or danger of a rebellion” against the government or a situation in which the U.S. government is unable with regular forces to execute the country’s laws.

    The Justice Department has said that once the president determines that an emergency that warrants the use of the National Guard exists, no court or state governor can review that decision.

    Trump’s decision to send troops into Los Angeles prompted a national debate about the use of the military on U.S. soil and inflamed political tensions in the second most-populous U.S. city.

    The protests in Los Angeles lasted for more than a week, but subsequently ebbed, leading Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to lift a curfew she had imposed.

    California argued in its June 9 lawsuit that Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and the Marines violated the state’s sovereignty and U.S. laws that forbid federal troops from participating in civilian law enforcement.

    The lawsuit stated the situation in Los Angeles was nothing like a “rebellion.” The protests involved sporadic acts of violence that state and local law enforcement were capable of handling without military involvement, according to the lawsuit.

    The Trump administration has denied that troops are engaging in law enforcement, saying that they are instead protecting federal buildings and personnel, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

    The 9th Circuit panel is comprised of two judges appointed by Trump during his first term and one appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden.

    (Reuters)

  • US court lets Trump retain control of California National Guard for now

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. appeals court let Donald Trump on Thursday retain control over California’s National Guard while the state’s Democratic governor proceeds with a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Republican president’s use of the troops to quell protests and unrest in Los Angeles.

    A three-judge panel of the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals extended a pause it placed on U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer’s June 12 ruling that Trump had called the National Guard into federal service unlawfully.

    Breyer’s ruling was issued in a lawsuit against Trump’s action brought by Governor Gavin Newsom.

    Breyer ruled that Trump violated the U.S. law governing a president’s ability to take control of a state’s National Guard by failing to coordinate with the governor, and also found that the conditions set out under the statute to allow this move, such as a rebellion against federal authority, did not exist.

    Breyer ordered Trump to return control of California’s National Guard to Newsom. Hours after Breyer acted, the 9th Circuit panel put the judge’s move on hold temporarily.

    Amid protests and turmoil in Los Angeles over Trump’s immigration raids, the president on June 7 took control of California’s National Guard and deployed 4,000 troops against the wishes of Newsom. Trump also ordered 700 U.S. Marines to the city after sending in the National Guard. Breyer has not yet ruled on the legality of the Marine Corps mobilization.

    At a court hearing on Tuesday on whether to extend the pause on Breyer’s decision, members of the 9th Circuit panel questioned lawyers for California and the Trump administration on what role, if any, courts should have in reviewing Trump’s authority to deploy the troops.

    The law sets out three conditions under which a president can federalize state National Guard forces, including an invasion, a “rebellion or danger of a rebellion” against the government or a situation in which the U.S. government is unable with regular forces to execute the country’s laws.

    The Justice Department has said that once the president determines that an emergency that warrants the use of the National Guard exists, no court or state governor can review that decision.

    Trump’s decision to send troops into Los Angeles prompted a national debate about the use of the military on U.S. soil and inflamed political tensions in the second most-populous U.S. city.

    The protests in Los Angeles lasted for more than a week, but subsequently ebbed, leading Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to lift a curfew she had imposed.

    California argued in its June 9 lawsuit that Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and the Marines violated the state’s sovereignty and U.S. laws that forbid federal troops from participating in civilian law enforcement.

    The lawsuit stated the situation in Los Angeles was nothing like a “rebellion.” The protests involved sporadic acts of violence that state and local law enforcement were capable of handling without military involvement, according to the lawsuit.

    The Trump administration has denied that troops are engaging in law enforcement, saying that they are instead protecting federal buildings and personnel, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

    The 9th Circuit panel is comprised of two judges appointed by Trump during his first term and one appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden.

    (Reuters)

  • SpaceX Starship rocket explodes in setback to Musk’s Mars mission

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    SpaceX’s massive Starship spacecraft exploded into a dramatic fireball during testing in Texas late on Wednesday, the latest in a series of setbacks for billionaire Elon Musk’s Mars rocket program.

    The explosion occurred around 11 p.m. local time while Starship was on a test stand at its Brownsville, Texas Starbase while preparing for the tenth test flight, SpaceX said in a post on Musk’s social-media platform X.

    The company attributed it to a “major anomaly” and said all personnel were safe. Its engineering teams were investigating the incident, and it was coordinating with local, state and federal agencies regarding environmental and safety impacts, the company said.

    “Preliminary data suggests that a nitrogen COPV in the payload bay failed below its proof pressure,” Musk said in a post on X, in a reference to a nitrogen gas storage unit known as a Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel. “If further investigation confirms that this is what happened, it is the first time ever for this design,” he continued.

    The Starship rocket appeared to experience at least two explosions in quick succession, lighting up the night sky and sending debris flying, according to video capturing the moment it exploded.

    The 400-foot (122-meter) tall Starship rocket system is at the core of Musk’s goal of sending humans to Mars. But it has been beset by a string of failures this year.

    In late May, SpaceX’s Starship rocket spun out of control about halfway through a flight without achieving some of its most important testing goals. The Starship lifted off from SpaceX’s Starbase, Texas, launch site, flying beyond the point of two previous explosive attempts earlier this year that sent debris streaking over Caribbean islands and forced dozens of airliners to divert course.

    Two months earlier, the spacecraft exploded in space minutes after lifting off from Texas, prompting the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to halt air traffic in parts of Florida.

    Videos on social media showed fiery debris streaking through the dusk skies near South Florida and the Bahamas after Starship broke up in space shortly after it began to spin uncontrollably with its engines cut off, a SpaceX live stream of the mission showed. Musk called that explosion “a minor setback.”

    The FAA said earlier this month that it had closed an agency-required investigation into the mishap, citing the probable cause as a hardware failure in one of the engines. SpaceX identified eight corrective actions to prevent a recurrence and the FAA said it verified SpaceX implemented those prior to the late May Starship mission.

    In January, a Starship rocket broke up in space minutes after launching from Texas, raining debris over Caribbean islands and causing minor damage to a car in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi to launch projects worth ₹18,600 crore in Odisha, unveil vision document

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the state-level event in Bhubaneswar today, commemorating one year of the newly elected government in Odisha. The Prime Minister’s visit is set to mark the beginning of a fresh phase of development in the state, with the inauguration and foundation laying of projects valued at over ₹18,600 crore.

    The projects span a wide range of critical sectors, including drinking water supply, irrigation, agriculture-related infrastructure, healthcare, and rural connectivity. Notable among them are new national highway segments, a new railway line, and other public infrastructure intended to improve service delivery and quality of life across Odisha.

    A landmark feature of the day’s agenda will be the flagging off of new train services extending to Boudh district—bringing it onto the national railway map for the first time. This move is expected to bolster regional connectivity and support local economic growth.

    In an effort to promote clean energy and sustainable urban transport, the Prime Minister will also flag off 100 electric buses under the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) system. Designed to serve the capital and adjoining regions, the initiative is aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of urban mobility while enhancing convenience for daily commuters.

    Another key highlight will be the release of the Odisha Vision Document, which presents a long-term development strategy for the state. Framed with an eye on two landmark milestones—2036, the centenary of Odisha as India’s first linguistic state, and 2047, the centenary of Indian independence—the document outlines a roadmap for inclusive and sustainable growth across sectors.

    Further adding to the cultural and heritage agenda of the state, the Prime Minister will launch the Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana. This scheme seeks to convert the birthplaces of prominent Odia personalities into heritage villages, complete with museums, statues, interpretation centres, and libraries. It is expected to both preserve Odisha’s rich cultural history and promote heritage tourism.

    The Prime Minister will also felicitate women achievers from across Odisha. The ceremony will honour over 16.5 lakh “Lakhpati Didis”, women who have attained economic self-reliance through various government-supported livelihood initiatives.

     

     

     

     

  • PM Modi to launch projects worth ₹18,600 crore in Odisha, unveil vision document

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the state-level event in Bhubaneswar today, commemorating one year of the newly elected government in Odisha. The Prime Minister’s visit is set to mark the beginning of a fresh phase of development in the state, with the inauguration and foundation laying of projects valued at over ₹18,600 crore.

    The projects span a wide range of critical sectors, including drinking water supply, irrigation, agriculture-related infrastructure, healthcare, and rural connectivity. Notable among them are new national highway segments, a new railway line, and other public infrastructure intended to improve service delivery and quality of life across Odisha.

    A landmark feature of the day’s agenda will be the flagging off of new train services extending to Boudh district—bringing it onto the national railway map for the first time. This move is expected to bolster regional connectivity and support local economic growth.

    In an effort to promote clean energy and sustainable urban transport, the Prime Minister will also flag off 100 electric buses under the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) system. Designed to serve the capital and adjoining regions, the initiative is aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of urban mobility while enhancing convenience for daily commuters.

    Another key highlight will be the release of the Odisha Vision Document, which presents a long-term development strategy for the state. Framed with an eye on two landmark milestones—2036, the centenary of Odisha as India’s first linguistic state, and 2047, the centenary of Indian independence—the document outlines a roadmap for inclusive and sustainable growth across sectors.

    Further adding to the cultural and heritage agenda of the state, the Prime Minister will launch the Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana. This scheme seeks to convert the birthplaces of prominent Odia personalities into heritage villages, complete with museums, statues, interpretation centres, and libraries. It is expected to both preserve Odisha’s rich cultural history and promote heritage tourism.

    The Prime Minister will also felicitate women achievers from across Odisha. The ceremony will honour over 16.5 lakh “Lakhpati Didis”, women who have attained economic self-reliance through various government-supported livelihood initiatives.

     

     

     

     

  • PM Modi to launch projects worth ₹18,600 crore in Odisha, unveil vision document

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the state-level event in Bhubaneswar today, commemorating one year of the newly elected government in Odisha. The Prime Minister’s visit is set to mark the beginning of a fresh phase of development in the state, with the inauguration and foundation laying of projects valued at over ₹18,600 crore.

    The projects span a wide range of critical sectors, including drinking water supply, irrigation, agriculture-related infrastructure, healthcare, and rural connectivity. Notable among them are new national highway segments, a new railway line, and other public infrastructure intended to improve service delivery and quality of life across Odisha.

    A landmark feature of the day’s agenda will be the flagging off of new train services extending to Boudh district—bringing it onto the national railway map for the first time. This move is expected to bolster regional connectivity and support local economic growth.

    In an effort to promote clean energy and sustainable urban transport, the Prime Minister will also flag off 100 electric buses under the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) system. Designed to serve the capital and adjoining regions, the initiative is aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of urban mobility while enhancing convenience for daily commuters.

    Another key highlight will be the release of the Odisha Vision Document, which presents a long-term development strategy for the state. Framed with an eye on two landmark milestones—2036, the centenary of Odisha as India’s first linguistic state, and 2047, the centenary of Indian independence—the document outlines a roadmap for inclusive and sustainable growth across sectors.

    Further adding to the cultural and heritage agenda of the state, the Prime Minister will launch the Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana. This scheme seeks to convert the birthplaces of prominent Odia personalities into heritage villages, complete with museums, statues, interpretation centres, and libraries. It is expected to both preserve Odisha’s rich cultural history and promote heritage tourism.

    The Prime Minister will also felicitate women achievers from across Odisha. The ceremony will honour over 16.5 lakh “Lakhpati Didis”, women who have attained economic self-reliance through various government-supported livelihood initiatives.

     

     

     

     

  • IDY 2025: PM Modi’s efforts gave yoga global recognition, says Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing global recognition to yoga, inspiring countries around the world to embrace the practice with enthusiasm.

    Addressing an event at a Yoga, Meditation, and Medical Camp in Delhi’s Shalimar Bagh ahead of International Yoga Day, Gupta said, “PM Modi got Yoga Day recognized on the world stage in such a way that every country in the world is adopting Yoga with great affection today… India will be able to prosper only if it remains healthy.”

    The central theme for this year’s International Yoga Day is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underlining the connection between individual wellness and planetary health.

    Now in its 11th year, International Yoga Day was first observed in 2015 following a resolution moved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the United Nations in 2014. The inaugural celebration in New Delhi set two Guinness World Records — one for the largest yoga session and another for the most nationalities participating in a single event.

    The Centre has rolled out 10 key initiatives this year, with Yoga Sangam as the flagship event. Scheduled for June 21, from 6:30 am to 7:45 am, it will host a synchronized mass yoga demonstration at over one lakh locations nationwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Other events include Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Park, Harit Yoga, and Yoga Mahakumbh.

    ANI

  • IDY 2025: PM Modi’s efforts gave yoga global recognition, says Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing global recognition to yoga, inspiring countries around the world to embrace the practice with enthusiasm.

    Addressing an event at a Yoga, Meditation, and Medical Camp in Delhi’s Shalimar Bagh ahead of International Yoga Day, Gupta said, “PM Modi got Yoga Day recognized on the world stage in such a way that every country in the world is adopting Yoga with great affection today… India will be able to prosper only if it remains healthy.”

    The central theme for this year’s International Yoga Day is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underlining the connection between individual wellness and planetary health.

    Now in its 11th year, International Yoga Day was first observed in 2015 following a resolution moved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the United Nations in 2014. The inaugural celebration in New Delhi set two Guinness World Records — one for the largest yoga session and another for the most nationalities participating in a single event.

    The Centre has rolled out 10 key initiatives this year, with Yoga Sangam as the flagship event. Scheduled for June 21, from 6:30 am to 7:45 am, it will host a synchronized mass yoga demonstration at over one lakh locations nationwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Other events include Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Park, Harit Yoga, and Yoga Mahakumbh.

    ANI

  • Prime Minister to inaugurate railway, power, and housing projects in Siwan, Bihar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to Bihar, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, beginning his tour with a public programme in Bihar’s Siwan district, on Friday. At around noon, PM is scheduled to lay the foundation stone and inaugurate a series of development projects, addressing the gathering on the occasion.

    In Siwan, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Vaishali–Deoria railway line, a project worth over ₹400 crore, and will flag off a new train service along this route. Additionally, in a move to strengthen regional connectivity, he will flag off a Vande Bharat Express between Patliputra and Gorakhpur via Muzaffarpur and Bettiah—an important link for North Bihar.

    In line with India’s “Make in India – Make for the World” campaign, PM Modi will flag off the first export locomotive manufactured at the Marhowra Plant. The locomotive, which will be shipped to the Republic of Guinea, is equipped with high-horsepower engines, advanced AC propulsion systems, and regenerative braking technologies.

    In alignment with efforts to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate six sewage treatment plants under the Namami Gange programme. These plants, developed at a cost of over ₹1,800 crore, are intended to meet the sanitation needs of towns situated along the river and improve the overall water quality.

    Additionally, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for a series of water supply and sanitation projects worth over ₹3,000 crore. These initiatives span several towns in Bihar and aim to ensure the delivery of clean and safe drinking water to local populations.

    Addressing the power sector, the Prime Minister will initiate the installation of a 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) across 15 grid substations in Bihar, including those in Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, and Siwan. With capacities ranging from 20 to 80 MWh per substation, the BESS facilities are expected to help electricity distribution companies manage demand more efficiently by feeding stored electricity into the grid during peak hours.

    In the housing sector, PM Modi will release the first instalment under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) to more than 53,600 beneficiaries in Bihar. To mark the occasion, he will also hand over keys to a few recipients as part of a Grih Pravesh ceremony for over 6,600 newly constructed houses under the scheme.

    Following his engagements in Siwan, PM Modi will travel to Odisha and Andhra Pradesh to continue his official tour on June 21.

     

  • US top diplomat Rubio discussed Israel-Iran war with key partners

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met British foreign minister David Lammy on Thursday and held separate calls with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to discuss the war between U.S. ally Israel and its regional rival Iran.

    KEY QUOTES

    The U.S. State Department said that Rubio and the foreign ministers agreed that “Iran can never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon.”

    Lammy said the same on X while adding that the situation in the Middle East “remained perilous” and a “window now exists within the next two weeks to achieve a diplomatic solution.”

    WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

    The air war between Iran and Israel – which began on June 13 when Israel attacked Iran – has raised alarms in a region that was already on edge since the start of Israel’s military assault on Gaza in October 2023.

    President Donald Trump will decide in the next two weeks whether the U.S. will get involved in the war, the White House said on Thursday. Trump has kept the world guessing on his plans, veering from proposing a swift diplomatic solution to suggesting Washington might join the fighting on Israel’s side.

    The White House said late on Thursday that Trump will take part in a national security meeting on Friday morning.

    CONTEXT

    Israel, which is the only country in the Middle East widely believed to have nuclear weapons, said it struck Iran to prevent Tehran from developing its own nuclear weapons. Iran, which says its nuclear program is peaceful, has retaliated with its own strikes on Israel.

    Iran is a party to Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty while Israel is not.

    Israeli air attacks have killed 639 people in Iran, the Human Rights Activists News Agency says. Israel says at least two dozen Israeli civilians have died in Iranian attacks.

    The foreign ministers of Britain, France, Germany and the European Union were due to meet in Geneva with Iran’s foreign minister on Friday to try to de-escalate the conflict.

    (Reuters)