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Category: Government of India

  • Shadow of War Falls Over Strait of Hormuz After Israel Strikes Iran

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel launched widescale strikes against Iran on Friday, saying it targeted nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders during the start of a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    Iran, which has denied such intentions, has in the past threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz for traffic in retaliation to Western pressure. Experts have said that any closure of the strait could restrict trade and impact global oil prices.

    Below are details about the strait:

    The strait lies between Oman and Iran and links the Gulf north of it with the Gulf of Oman to the south and the Arabian Sea beyond.

    It is 21 miles (33 km) wide at its narrowest point, with the shipping lane just two miles (three km) wide in either direction.

    WHY DOES IT MATTER?

    About a fifth of the world’s total oil consumption passes through the strait. Between the start of 2022 and last month, roughly 17.8 million to 20.8 million barrels of crude, condensate and fuels flowed through the strait daily, according to data from Vortexa.

    OPEC members Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Iraq export most of their crude via the strait, mainly to Asia.

    The UAE and Saudi Arabia have sought to find other routes to bypass the strait.

    Around 2.6 million bpd of unused capacity from existing UAE and Saudi pipelines could be available to bypass Hormuz, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said in June last year.

    Qatar, among the world’s biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporters, sends almost all of its LNG through the strait.

    Iran has threatened over the years to block the strait but has never followed through.

    The U.S. Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, is tasked with protecting commercial shipping in the area.

    HISTORY OF TENSIONS

    In 1973, Arab producers led by Saudi Arabia slapped an oil embargo on Western supporters of Israel in its war with Egypt.

    While Western countries were the main buyers of crude produced by the Arab countries at the time, nowadays Asia is the main buyer of OPEC’s crude.

    The United States more than doubled its oil liquids production in the last two decades and has turned from the world’s biggest oil importer into one of the top exporters.

    During the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq War, the two sides sought to disrupt each other’s exports in what was called the Tanker War.

    In July 1988, a U.S. warship shot down an Iranian airliner, killing all 290 aboard, in what Washington said was an accident and Tehran said was a deliberate attack.

    In January 2012, Iran threatened to block the strait in retaliation for U.S. and European sanctions. In May 2019, four vessels – including two Saudi oil tankers – were attacked off the UAE coast, outside the Strait of Hormuz.

    (Reuters)

  • China tells G7 to stop ‘manipulating’ China issues for its own agenda

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    China warned the Group of Seven advanced economies on Friday against “manipulating” issues related to the world’s second-largest economy for their own agenda, after they accused Beijing of unfair business practices a year earlier.

    Beijing’s criticism of the G7 and what it represents comes amid a surge in global trade tension between the United States and China this year, as well as within the bloc’s membership.

    In remarks ahead of a three-day G7 summit in Canada set to start from Sunday, Lin Jian, a spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry, accused the group of having always upheld a Cold War mentality.

    The bloc should “stop interfering in other countries’ internal affairs, stop undermining other countries’ development, (and) stop manipulating issues related to China,” Lin told a regular news conference.

    The G7 provokes conflicts and confrontations, said Lin, adding that such practices were “doomed to fail”.

    In the communique after its 2024 summit in Italy that mentioned China more than 20 times, the G7 said its companies needed to be protected from China’s unfair business practices.

    It also warned of action against Chinese financial institutions that helped Russia obtain weapons for its war in Ukraine.

    The participation of countries beyond the grouping, such as India and Brazil, in last year’s event also irked China, which viewed the move as a bid to sow discord among countries of the Global South.

    New leaders will represent five of the G7’s members – Britain, Canada, Germany, Japan and the United States – at next week’s summit.

    (Reuters)

  • Gold crosses ₹1 lakh on MCX as Israel-Iran tensions fuel safe-haven demand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Gold prices on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) opened sharply higher on Friday, breaching the ₹1 lakh mark per 10 grams for the first time. The rally was driven by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which boosted safe-haven demand for the yellow metal. Silver prices also saw gains in early trade.

    MCX gold opened at ₹99,500 per 10 grams, up ₹1,108 or 1.12% from the previous close of ₹98,392. Shortly after, prices surged to ₹1,00,403, crossing the psychological ₹1 lakh threshold. By 12:44 p.m., gold was trading at ₹99,673, up 1.30%.

    Retail gold prices in India reflected the same trend. According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), as of 12:50 p.m., 22-carat gold was priced at ₹9,679 per gram, while 24-carat gold stood at ₹9,917 per gram.

    Silver mirrored gold’s upward movement. It opened at ₹1,06,450 per kg, up ₹565 or 0.53% from the previous close of ₹1,05,885. It touched a high of ₹1,06,799 and was trading at ₹1,06,328 per kg, up 0.42% at 12:45 p.m.

    The rise in domestic prices is in line with the global trend, where gold hit its highest level in over a month. Spot gold rose 1.3% to $3,428.28 an ounce after reaching its highest level since May 7. U.S. gold futures were up 1.4% at $3,449.60. The metal has gained over 3.5% so far this week.

    The surge in bullion prices comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. Reports suggest that Israel carried out airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and military facilities, sparking fears of a wider regional conflict.

    Geopolitical uncertainty often drives investors towards gold, widely regarded as a safe-haven asset during crises.

    Colin Shah, Managing Director of Kama Jewelry, commented on the surge: “Gold prices in India hitting an all-time high is on expected lines given the latest developments in geopolitical tensions and the weakening of the Indian rupee.”

    He added that while gold may face short-term resistance, it is likely to hover between ₹1,00,200 and ₹1,00,500 per 10 grams on the MCX, depending on how international economic and political events unfold.

    -IANS

  • Inflation to average 2.5% over next six months: HSBC

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s inflation is expected to average around 2.5 per cent over the next six months, according to a report by HSBC Global Research released on Friday.

    The report attributed the softer inflation outlook to a high base effect from last year, as well as stable food prices and adequate grain supplies. Data for June is already trending slightly below May levels, it noted.

    “Vegetable prices in the first 10 days of June have increased in the range of 0–13 per cent, but the high base from last year is helping keep overall inflation in check,” HSBC said in its outlook.

    The monsoon, which began early this year, has slowed recently. Despite this, the sowing of key summer crops such as rice and pulses is reportedly progressing well. Combined with strong cereal production from last year, this has helped keep granaries well-stocked—providing the government with flexibility to release grain stocks gradually and manage food inflation over a longer horizon.

    Headline and core inflation (excluding gold) stood at 2.8 per cent, well below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4 per cent. Food prices remained in deflation for the fifth consecutive month, falling by 0.2 per cent on a month-on-month basis. Prices of items such as fruits, eggs, fish, meat, and sugar showed subdued momentum.

    However, high gold prices continue to exert upward pressure on core inflation. With gold accounting for 1.1 per cent of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket, and prices having risen by over 30 per cent in recent months, core inflation remains slightly elevated. Excluding gold, HSBC estimates core inflation at 3.5 per cent year-on-year.

    Looking ahead, the report forecasts that core inflation could ease further in the second half of 2025 if gold prices decline, as projected by HSBC’s commodities team. It also expects external factors to aid disinflation, including a stronger rupee, falling commodity prices, and weaker global demand—particularly from China.

    The RBI has already cut the policy rate by 100 basis points this year and reduced the cash reserve ratio by an equivalent amount. HSBC expects the central bank to maintain a pause in its August and October policy meetings, before delivering one final 25-basis-point rate cut in December. This would bring the repo rate down to 5.25 per cent by the end of the year.

    IANS

  • Inflation to average 2.5% over next six months, below RBI forecast: HSBC

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s inflation is expected to average around 2.5 per cent over the next six months, significantly lower than the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) forecast of 3.5 per cent, according to a report by HSBC Global Research released on Friday.

    The report attributed the softer inflation outlook to a high base effect from last year, as well as stable food prices and adequate grain supplies. Data for June is already trending slightly below May levels, it noted.

    “Vegetable prices in the first 10 days of June have increased in the range of 0–13 per cent, but the high base from last year is helping keep overall inflation in check,” HSBC said in its outlook.

    The monsoon, which began early this year, has slowed recently. Despite this, the sowing of key summer crops such as rice and pulses is reportedly progressing well. Combined with strong cereal production from last year, this has helped keep granaries well-stocked—providing the government with flexibility to release grain stocks gradually and manage food inflation over a longer horizon.

    Headline and core inflation (excluding gold) stood at 2.8 per cent, well below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4 per cent. Food prices remained in deflation for the fifth consecutive month, falling by 0.2 per cent on a month-on-month basis. Prices of items such as fruits, eggs, fish, meat, and sugar showed subdued momentum.

    However, high gold prices continue to exert upward pressure on core inflation. With gold accounting for 1.1 per cent of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket, and prices having risen by over 30 per cent in recent months, core inflation remains slightly elevated. Excluding gold, HSBC estimates core inflation at 3.5 per cent year-on-year.

    Looking ahead, the report forecasts that core inflation could ease further in the second half of 2025 if gold prices decline, as projected by HSBC’s commodities team. It also expects external factors to aid disinflation, including a stronger rupee, falling commodity prices, and weaker global demand—particularly from China.

    The RBI has already cut the policy rate by 100 basis points this year and reduced the cash reserve ratio by an equivalent amount. HSBC expects the central bank to maintain a pause in its August and October policy meetings, before delivering one final 25-basis-point rate cut in December. This would bring the repo rate down to 5.25 per cent by the end of the year.

    IANS

  • Air India crash: PM Modi visits Ahmedabad crash site, assesses damage, meets injured

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the site of the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, where the London-bound flight carrying 242 people went down a day earlier.

    The aircraft crashed minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 people. Only one passenger – a British national of Indian origin – survived.

    “The scene of devastation is saddening,” PM Modi said in a post on X after reviewing the wreckage. “Met officials and teams working tirelessly in the aftermath. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy.”

    After his visit to the crash site, the Prime Minister proceeded to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, where he met the injured and offered support to grieving families. He also interacted with doctors and medical staff — including those who had been hurt in the crash — and reviewed the condition of patients receiving treatment.

    Later, the Prime Minister chaired a high-level review meeting in Ahmedabad, joined by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and other senior officials from both the Central and State governments.

    Flight AI-171, headed to London Gatwick, crashed into the hostel complex of BJ Medical College at 1:38 p.m. IST on Thursday, triggering a massive blaze and a large-scale emergency response.

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the crash site on Thursday and later chaired a high-level meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Naidu, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and senior officials to review relief and rescue measures.

    Shah said DNA testing was underway to confirm the identities of the victims and assured that results would be delivered at the earliest by Gujarat’s Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU). DNA samples of family members arriving from abroad would be collected on arrival, he added.

    A formal investigation into the crash has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in accordance with international protocols under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), said Civil Aviation Minister Naidu. A high-level expert committee is also being formed to examine the incident and suggest safety improvements to prevent future tragedies.

    The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced it would send a team of investigators to India to assist the AAIB.

    “The NTSB will be leading a team of US investigators travelling to India to assist the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau with its investigation into the crash of an Air India Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad, India, Thursday,” the agency said, noting that all official updates would come from the Indian government under ICAO’s Annex 13 protocols.

    Rescue and Relief Operations Continue

    Rescue operations continued through the night as teams sifted through debris for missing aircraft parts.

    Parts of the plane’s fuselage were scattered around the smouldering building into which it crashed. The tail of the plane was stuck on top of the building.

    Air India CEO Campbell Wilson reached Ahmedabad early Friday. The airline said it had set up Friends & Relatives Assistance Centres at Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gatwick airports to support the families of those on board.

    “These centres are facilitating the travel of family members to Ahmedabad,” Air India posted on X. Emergency contact numbers were also issued for those seeking information: 1800 5691 444 for calls from within India, and +91 8062779200 for international callers.

    The Tata Group, which took over Air India in 2022, announced a compensation of Rs 1 crore for the family of each deceased passenger.

    “Tata Group will provide Rs 1 crore to the families of each person who has lost their life in this tragedy. We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support. Additionally, we will provide support in the building up of the B J Medical’s hostel,” Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said on X.

    Earlier, Air India released a breakdown of the nationalities of those on board: 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

    (With inputs from agencies)

  • DGT, Shell India roll out green skills, EV training programme across five states

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Directorate General of Training (DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has partnered with Shell India to launch a Green Skills and Electric Vehicle (EV) training programme. The initiative, implemented by Edunet Foundation, Shell’s training partner, will be conducted across selected Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

    The initiative is part of the Centre’s broader efforts to align skill development with India’s transition to a low-carbon future. It is aimed at preparing students and trainers for emerging opportunities in green energy and e-mobility sectors.

    According to the MSDE, the programme will be delivered in a phased, multi-tier model. Four NSTIs will host a 240-hour advanced EV Technician course covering EV systems, diagnostics, and battery technologies. In parallel, 12 ITIs equipped with Shell-supported laboratories will offer a 90-hour job-oriented EV skills course. An additional 50-hour foundational green skills module is being introduced in ITIs without physical labs to build basic awareness around sustainability.

    All modules have been jointly developed by DGT, Shell India, and Edunet Foundation, and are aligned with industry requirements. More than 250 trainers will also undergo upskilling under a dedicated Training of Trainers (ToT) component. On completion, participants will receive certification jointly issued by Shell and DGT, and receive structured placement support.

    A key feature of the programme is the establishment of specialised EV skill labs within selected institutes, aimed at delivering hands-on training and practical exposure to industry standards.

    “This collaboration with Shell India reflects the government’s deeper commitment to aligning skilling with sustainability,” said Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE and Minister of State for Education. “Green energy, electric mobility, and the broader climate transition are not just environmental imperatives—they represent a generational opportunity for India to lead through innovation, talent, and enterprise.”

    Speaking on the partnership, Trishaljit Sethi, Director General of Training at MSDE, said the programme is a step towards bringing “cutting-edge training infrastructure and industry-relevant curriculum” to vocational training centres. “By integrating EV technologies into our ITIs and NSTIs, we are equipping students with hands-on experience aligned with real-world demand,” she said.

    Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India and Senior Vice President, Shell Lubricants, Asia-Pacific, said the programme was part of Shell’s commitment to building a low-carbon future. “Through our collaboration with DGT and Edunet Foundation, we are providing students with practical and future-ready expertise in green energy and electric mobility,” she said.

    The launch comes as India intensifies its push towards net-zero emissions. Government schemes such as the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME), alongside state-level EV policies in Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, are driving demand for a skilled green workforce.

    The programme is expected to strengthen employability in green mobility sectors while ensuring alignment with national skill development frameworks.

  • Offered fullest support: EAM Jaishankar speaks to UK, Portugal, Canada over Air India plane crash

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said that he is in touch with his counterparts from the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada in the aftermath of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 241 lives.

    “In touch with FS @DavidLammy of UK, FM @PauloRangel_pt of Portugal and FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash. Expressed our profound condolences and offered fullest support in this hour of grief,” Jaishankar wrote in a post on X on Friday.

    He had earlier posted: “Thank all foreign leaders and Governments for their condolences at the tragic loss of lives in the Ahmedabad air crash. We appreciate this deeply.”

    The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, plummeting into a densely populated area near BJ Medical College.

    The crash led to the deaths of 241 of the 242 people on board. The sole survivor, a British national of Indian origin, is currently under medical care.

    Among the deceased were 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese citizens, and 1 Canadian national, making the tragedy an international one. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has since been coordinating with affected countries, offering full assistance with identification, repatriation, and communication with bereaved families.

    Emergency services continue recovery efforts at the site, while DNA testing is underway at BJ Medical College to identify remains too severely damaged for visual recognition.

    Several families from across India, including those from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, are still awaiting confirmation of their loved ones.

    The Indian government has assured a thorough investigation into what is now considered one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent Indian history.

    Authorities from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are cooperating with international agencies to determine the cause of the crash.

    (With inputs from agencies)

  • Delhi heatwave likely to ease as IMD forecasts rain today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    North India, currently reeling under intense heat, is expected to get some relief soon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warning of thunderstorms, lightning and rain on the night of June 13.

    IMD has advised people to remain alert as strong winds are likely to reach speeds of 40–50 km/h, particularly on the night of June 13 and morning of June 14. People are advised to avoid standing in open areas or under trees during this time.

    On June 13, the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 42°C, with a minimum of around 31°C and humidity levels up to 67%. The IMD has warned that hot and humid conditions will persist during the day, but there is a possibility of thunderstorms with rain after the evening.

    From June 14, the mercury is likely to reach 41°C, while the minimum will stay around 29°C. On June 15, a further dip is expected, with the maximum at 40°C and the minimum at 28°C. The forecast for these days includes “thunderstorms with rain,” which should bring some much-needed relief from the heat.

    On June 16 and 17, the sky is expected to remain cloudy with light to moderate rainfall. Maximum temperatures are likely to settle around 38°C, with minimums at 27–28°C.

    Rain and thunderstorms are also expected to continue on June 18 and 19. Minimum temperatures are expected to be around 26°C, and maximums between 37–38°C, with humidity levels hovering around 80–85%. The rain will also prove beneficial for farmers, as it will help increase soil moisture aiding in the sowing of Kharif crops.

    Meanwhile, health experts advise caution during this transition period, as the risk of viral infections may rise.

    The IMD has urged citizens to remain vigilant, particularly on the night of June 13 and morning of June 14, when strong winds and lightning are expected. People are advised to avoid standing in open areas or under trees during this time.

    According to the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC), the peak power demand in Delhi reached 8,423 MW at 3:06 PM on Thursday. This figure represents the highest recorded load in the city up to June 12.

  • New training initiative launched to prepare youth for green jobs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Directorate General of Training (DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has partnered with Shell India to launch a Green Skills and Electric Vehicle (EV) training programme. The initiative, implemented by Edunet Foundation, Shell’s training partner, will be conducted across selected Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

    The initiative is part of the Centre’s broader efforts to align skill development with India’s transition to a low-carbon future. It is aimed at preparing students and trainers for emerging opportunities in green energy and e-mobility sectors.

    According to the MSDE, the programme will be delivered in a phased, multi-tier model. Four NSTIs will host a 240-hour advanced EV Technician course covering EV systems, diagnostics, and battery technologies. In parallel, 12 ITIs equipped with Shell-supported laboratories will offer a 90-hour job-oriented EV skills course. An additional 50-hour foundational green skills module is being introduced in ITIs without physical labs to build basic awareness around sustainability.

    All modules have been jointly developed by DGT, Shell India, and Edunet Foundation, and are aligned with industry requirements. More than 250 trainers will also undergo upskilling under a dedicated Training of Trainers (ToT) component. On completion, participants will receive certification jointly issued by Shell and DGT, and receive structured placement support.

    A key feature of the programme is the establishment of specialised EV skill labs within selected institutes, aimed at delivering hands-on training and practical exposure to industry standards.

    “This collaboration with Shell India reflects the government’s deeper commitment to aligning skilling with sustainability,” said Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE and Minister of State for Education. “Green energy, electric mobility, and the broader climate transition are not just environmental imperatives—they represent a generational opportunity for India to lead through innovation, talent, and enterprise.”

    Speaking on the partnership, Trishaljit Sethi, Director General of Training at MSDE, said the programme is a step towards bringing “cutting-edge training infrastructure and industry-relevant curriculum” to vocational training centres. “By integrating EV technologies into our ITIs and NSTIs, we are equipping students with hands-on experience aligned with real-world demand,” she said.

    Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India and Senior Vice President, Shell Lubricants, Asia-Pacific, said the programme was part of Shell’s commitment to building a low-carbon future. “Through our collaboration with DGT and Edunet Foundation, we are providing students with practical and future-ready expertise in green energy and electric mobility,” she said.

    The launch comes as India intensifies its push towards net-zero emissions. Government schemes such as the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME), alongside state-level EV policies in Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, are driving demand for a skilled green workforce.

    The programme is expected to strengthen employability in green mobility sectors while ensuring alignment with national skill development frameworks.

  • Key targets and capabilities: a look at Iran’s nuclear facilities amid Israeli strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel said early on Friday it had struck Iranian nuclear targets to block Tehran from developing atomic weapons, and Iranian media and witnesses reported explosions including at the country’s main uranium enrichment facility. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strikes are aimed at hurting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile factories and military capabilities.

    Below are some of Iran’s main nuclear facilities.

    WHERE ARE IRAN’S NUCLEAR FACILITIES?

    Iran’s nuclear programme is spread over many locations. While the threat of Israeli airstrikes has loomed for decades, only some of the sites have been built underground.

    DOES IRAN HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPONS PROGRAMME?

    The United States and the U.N. nuclear watchdog believe Iran had a coordinated, secret nuclear weapons programme that it halted in 2003. The Islamic Republic denies ever having had one or planning to have one.

    Iran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions under a 2015 deal with world powers. That pact fell apart after Trump – then serving his first term as president – pulled the United States out of it in 2018 and Iran started abandoning the restrictions in the following year.

    IS IRAN INCREASING ITS URANIUM ENRICHMENT?

    Yes. Iran has been expanding its uranium enrichment programme ever since the pact broke down, reducing the so-called “breakout time” it would need to produce enough weapons-grade uranium for a nuclear bomb to days or little more than a week from at least a year under the 2015 deal.

    Actually making a bomb with that material would take longer. How long is less clear and is the subject of debate.

    Iran is now enriching uranium to up to 60% fissile purity, close to the 90% of weapons-grade, at two sites, and in theory it has enough material enriched to that level, if enriched further, for six bombs, according to a yardstick of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the U.N. watchdog.

    NATANZ

    Netanyahu said on Friday that Israel had targetted Natanz as part of its attack.

    A complex at the heart of Iran’s enrichment programme on a plain abutting mountains outside the Shi’ite Muslim holy city of Qom, south of Tehran. Natanz houses facilities including two enrichment plants: the vast, underground Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) and the above-ground Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP).

    An exiled Iranian opposition group revealed in 2002 that Iran was secretly building Natanz, igniting a diplomatic standoff between the West and Iran over its nuclear intentions that continues today.

    The FEP was built for enrichment on a commercial scale, able to house 50,000 centrifuges. Around 16,000 centrifuges are currently installed there, roughly 13,000 of which are in operation, refining uranium to up to 5% purity.

    Diplomats with knowledge of Natanz describe the FEP as being about three floors below ground. There has long been debate about how much damage Israeli airstrikes could do to it.

    Damage has been done to centrifuges at the FEP by other means, including an explosion and power cut in April 2021 that Iran said was an attack by Israel.

    The above-ground PFEP houses only hundreds of centrifuges but Iran is enriching to up to 60% purity there.

    FORDOW

    On the opposite side of Qom, Fordow is an enrichment site dug into a mountain and therefore probably better protected from potential bombardment than the FEP.

    The 2015 deal with major powers did not allow Iran to enrich at Fordow at all. It now has around 2,000 centrifuges operating there, most of them advanced IR-6 machines, of which up to 350 are enriching to up to 60%.

    The United States, Britain and France announced in 2009 that Iran had been secretly building Fordow for years and had failed to inform the IAEA. U.S. President Barack Obama said then: “The size and configuration of this facility is inconsistent with a peaceful programme.”

    ISFAHAN

    Iran has a large nuclear technology centre on the outskirts of Isfahan, its second largest city.

    It includes the Fuel Plate Fabrication Plant (FPFP) and the uranium conversion facility (UCF) that can process uranium into the uranium hexafluoride that is fed into centrifuges.

    Iran also stores enriched uranium at Isfahan, diplomats say.

    There is equipment at Isfahan to make uranium metal, a process that is particularly proliferation-sensitive since it can be used to devise the core of a nuclear bomb.

    The IAEA has said there are machines for making centrifuge parts at Isfahan, describing it in 2022 as a “new location”.

    KHONDAB

    Iran has a partially built heavy-water research reactor originally called Arak and now Khondab. Heavy-water reactors pose a nuclear proliferation risk because they can easily produce plutonium which, like enriched uranium, can be used to make the core of an atom bomb.

    Under the 2015 deal, construction was halted, the reactor’s core was removed and filled with concrete to make it unusable. The reactor was to be redesigned “to minimise the production of plutonium and not to produce weapon-grade plutonium in normal operation”. Iran has informed the IAEA that it plans to start operating the reactor in 2026.

    TEHRAN RESEARCH CENTRE

    Iran’s nuclear research facilities in Tehran include a research reactor.

    BUSHEHR

    Iran’s only operating nuclear power plant, on the Gulf coast, uses Russian fuel that Russia then takes back when it is spent, reducing the proliferation risk.

    (Reuters)

  • Delhi Airport, Air India issue travel advisory amid rising Iran-Israel tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday issued a travel advisory for passengers flying to Iran and Iraq, urging them to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight schedules and operational updates. The advisory comes amid escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel and growing uncertainty over the region’s airspace.

    The IGIA statement said: “Delhi operations are running smoothly. However, due to the evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq, and the neighbouring region, some flight schedules have been impacted.

    Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. We strongly urge all passengers to rely only on official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.”

    On Friday, Israel said it had targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and senior military commanders in the initial phase of what it described as a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

    Air India aslo announced that it has altered the routes of several flights. In a post on X, the airline said: “Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, the following 16 Air India flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.

    We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimize it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellations or complimentary rescheduling are also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations.”

    Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a separate advisory for Indian nationals in Israel, urging them to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential movement, and strictly follow local safety instructions.

    Sharing the message on social media, the Indian mission underscored the importance of caution and preparedness for citizens residing in or travelling through Israel.

    “In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols as advised by the Israeli authorities and Home Front Command (https://oref.org.il/eng). Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country, and stay close to safety shelters,” the Embassy posted on X.

    The Embassy also urged Indian citizens to stay informed through official sources and to remain in contact with the mission in case of any emergency.

  • India urges Iran and Israel to avoid escalation, emphasises dialogue and diplomacy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Friday expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel and called for restraint from both sides. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement urging diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.

    “We are deeply concerned at the recent developments between Iran and Israel,” the MEA said.

    The ministry added, “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports related to attacks on nuclear sites.”

    India urged both nations to avoid further escalation and instead engage through established diplomatic channels.
    “India urges both sides to avoid any escalatory steps. Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards a de-escalation of the situation and resolving underlying issues. India enjoys close and friendly relations with both countries and stands ready to extend all possible support,” the statement read.

    The MEA also confirmed that Indian missions in both Iran and Israel are in touch with the Indian communities there.
    “All Indian nationals in the region are advised to exercise caution, stay safe, and follow local security advisories,” the statement added.

    The Indian government’s statement comes amid reports that Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iran on Friday. According to The Times of Israel, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant declared a state of emergency following the military action.

    “Following the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future,” Gallant was quoted as saying.

    He added that he had signed a special order declaring a state of emergency across the country.
    “You must obey the instructions of the Home Front Command and the authorities and remain in the protected areas,” he said.

    Air raid sirens were sounded across Israel as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened his security cabinet. According to Tzvika Tessler of the IDF Home Front Command, the sirens were intended to alert the public to an unprecedented threat level, although no attack had occurred at the time.

    “In the coming few hours, Israel could experience a significant attack from the east,” Tessler said, warning that the assault could involve “heavy missiles” capable of reaching targets across the country. “We will issue far-reaching warnings,” he added.

    The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed it had launched an aerial campaign targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. According to the Times of Israel, dozens of military and nuclear-related targets across Iran are being struck as part of the operation, codenamed “Nation of Lions.”

    The IDF claimed that Iran possesses enough enriched uranium to build multiple nuclear bombs within days, which it described as an “imminent threat” requiring immediate action.

    -ANI

  • Air India flight makes emergency landing in Thailand after bomb threat

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An Air India flight from Phuket in Thailand to India’s capital New Delhi received an onboard bomb threat on Friday and made an emergency landing on the island, airport authorities said.

    All 156 passengers on flight AI 379 had been escorted from the plane, in line with emergency plans, an Airports of Thailand official said.

    The aircraft took off from Phuket airport bound for the Indian capital at 9.30 a.m. (0230 GMT) on Friday, but made a wide loop around the Andaman Sea and landed back on the southern Thai island, according to flight tracker Flightradar24.

    The incident follows the crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad on Thursday shortly after takeoff.

    AOT did not provide details on the bomb threat. Air India did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Indian airlines and airports were inundated with hoax bomb threats last year, with nearly 1,000 hoax calls and messages received in the first 10 months, nearly 10 times that of 2023.

    (Reuters)

  • India, China agree to expedite resumption of direct flights, rebuild bilateral ties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and China have agreed to expedite the resumption of direct air services and work towards stabilising and rebuilding their bilateral ties, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

    The announcement followed a meeting between Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during his two-day visit to India. The two sides reviewed the progress made since their last talks in Beijing on January 27 and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening people-centric exchanges.

    Foreign Secretary Misri expressed appreciation for China’s cooperation in restarting the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra this year.

    Both countries agreed to accelerate steps toward restarting direct flights, with India pressing for the early conclusion of an updated Air Services Agreement. Discussions also covered visa facilitation and enhanced engagement between media and think tanks.

    Marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, both sides reviewed commemorative activities planned for the year and pledged to support their successful execution.

    Additionally, they agreed to hold functional-level dialogues in economic and trade sectors to resolve outstanding concerns and promote mutual interests.

  • Israel Launches Unprecedented Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Program as Middle East Braces for Escalation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel launched widescale strikes against Iran on Friday, targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders in what officials described as the start of a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon. The attacks represent a dramatic escalation in tensions between the two adversaries and have thrown the Middle East into chaos.

    The Israel Defense Forces said the operation, titled ‘Rising Lion’, involved strikes against dozens of military targets, including the country’s nuclear program. Israeli military officials indicated that more than 200 fighter jets participated in the operation, which targeted locations across Iran in the early hours of Friday morning.

    The attacks killed Major General Hossein Salami, the head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Israeli forces also claimed to have eliminated other senior Iranian military commanders, dealing a significant blow to Iran’s military leadership structure. As head of the Revolutionary Guard Corps, Salami was one of Iran’s most powerful military figures, overseeing the country’s most potent military arm and reporting directly to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

    The strikes targeted Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz, though the International Atomic Energy Agency reported no increase in radiation levels at the site following the attacks. The agency confirmed that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted during the operation.

    Iran’s armed forces spokesperson Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi warned that Israel and the United States would pay a ‘heavy price’ for the strikes. Iranian state media reported that residential areas in Tehran were hit and that civilians, including children, were among the casualties.

    Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a special state of emergency across the country, warning citizens to expect missile and drone retaliation. Sirens sounded across Israel in the hours before dawn as the country braced for potential Iranian counter-attacks. The strikes come at a particularly sensitive time, as the Trump administration has been pursuing diplomatic negotiations with Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly characterized Iran’s nuclear program as an existential threat to Israel’s survival. The White House has reportedly sought to distance itself from the Israeli operation, with Trump administration officials stating that the United States provided no military support for the strikes.

  • Families across India mourn loss of loved ones in Ahmedabad plane crash

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As the nation comes to terms with the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI-171, grief has swept across households, with families mourning the loss of loved ones in what is being counted among India’s worst aviation disasters.

    The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, flying from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport on June 12, ramming into a nearby hostel. Only one passenger survived, while casualties on the ground are also feared.

    Among the victims was Anju Sharma, originally from Kurukshetra and living in Vadodara with her family. She was on her way to London to visit her elder daughter when the crash occurred.

    Her uncle, Balkishan Sharma, said he was deeply shaken. “I rarely watch TV. She was my brother’s eldest daughter. I found out about the tragedy from the news.”

    In Uttarsanda village in Gujarat’s Kheda district, the family of Rupal Patel is mourning her death. A resident of London for 15 years and mother of three, Rupal had returned to India for medical treatment.

    “My sister came for a week for treatment. After her operation, she was feeling well. She was happy to return to her husband and three children in London. I dropped her at the airport, and by the time I got home, I heard the devastating news,” said her brother, Pawan Patel.

    Rupal was seated in 19J on the flight. After being informed of the crash, her husband left London immediately with their children — a 13-year-old and twin 7-year-olds — to travel to Gujarat. “The kids were waiting for their mother to return. They had no idea she would never come back,” her husband said.

    In Ahmedabad, families waited overnight outside BJ Medical College as forensic teams carried out DNA sampling to identify the deceased, many of whom were burned beyond recognition.

    “Smoke suddenly rose high in the sky. There was fire. The flight had crashed, there were many people on board,” said Jairam, an eyewitness who lives around two kilometres from the site.

    The list of passengers on flight AI-171 showed that at least 33 of them were from Gujarat’s Anand district, 19 from Vadodara, and 17 from Kheda.

    The government has promised full support to the victims’ families and a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.

    IANS

  • Kohli-backed World Bowling League to roll out next year

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first edition of the World Bowling League (WBL), backed by celebrity cricketer Virat Kohli and baseball star Mookie Betts, will roll out with six franchises competing in iconic locations early next year, league chief Adi K. Mishra told Reuters.

    The WBL is looking to transform a pastime for millions around the world into a cutting edge, made-for-TV experience via a heady mix of celebrity franchise owners, exotic locations and technological innovation.

    “It’s an incredible sport which just hasn’t been structured correctly for the past 50-60 years and everyone just dismisses it as a recreational activity,” Mishra, the founder and CEO of sports tech firm League Sports Co, said in a video call from the United States.

    “We are going to launch with six franchises in the first quarter of next year. It’s going to be a team of four – two male and two female bowlers.”

    Mishra did not go into detail about the format but said professional bowlers would compete in the core sport while celebrities would take part in auxiliary events, with teams collecting points throughout the season.

    With its origins in ancient Egypt, bowling’s heyday in the United States was in the 1960s and 70s when every town and suburb had its own alley.

    Even today, some 200 million people put on flat-soled shoes and take to the lanes every year, including 75 million in the U.S., Mishra said.

    The WBL is by no means the first attempt to create a professional circuit in the Tenpin game, and American Don ‘Mr Bowling’ Carter was the first athlete in any sport to ink a $1 million sponsorship deal back in 1964.

    What separates the WBL from previous attempts, Mishra says, is its global reach – the league is in the advanced stage of finalising franchises in Japan, South Korea, Singapore and India – and the ambitious vision.

    “Our first fundamental premise was – how can we take this and make this an aspirational product?” Mishra added.

    “We want to take two lanes and put them in iconic locations around the world – Hudson Yards in New York, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, a variety of different locations in Dubai and India.”

    TAILOR-MADE FOR TV

    Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Betts bought the first announced franchise in May and the WBL pulled off another marketing coup when Kohli came on board as a strategic investor last month.

    Mishra did not provide financial details of Bett’s purchase but said negotiations on the sale of the remaining franchises were in the final stages.

    The league plans to simplify scoring, gather a host of celebrity and corporate backers, and use ball-tracking and other technology to create a product that works on television and digital platforms.

    Weaving complimentary programming featuring celebrity bowlers like Betts and Kohli around the core sport would make it an irresistible proposition for broadcasters, said Mishra.

    “We already have many broadcasters lined up and a lot of them think this sport, the way we’ve designed it, can fit into their ultra-premium segment.

    “A lot of them believe they can bring in other influencers and celebrities, who come in and bowl as well. So there’s a lot of ‘shoulder programming’ that you can create with the sport, which is not possible with a lot of other sports.”

    Mishra and Kohli know each other through their joint ownership of a team in the E1 electric powerboat world championship, and the cricketer’s fondness for bowling came as a pleasant surprise as the WBL was being in the planning stage.

    “Over the years, I’ve met a lot of celebs who happen to be closet bowlers,” Mishra said.

    “We were speaking about various things about the team and it turned out that he has been bowling and watching it since he was 11-12.

    “That was a big surprise for me and we wanted him to be part of this. Hopefully we’ll get him to bowl when he has more time for it.”

    (Reuters)

  • Air India crash: PM Modi visits Ahmedabad crash site, calls it a scene of “devastation”

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the site of the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, where the London-bound flight carrying 242 people went down a day earlier.

    The aircraft crashed minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 people. Only one passenger – a British national of Indian origin – survived.

    “The scene of devastation is saddening,” PM Modi said in a post on X after reviewing the wreckage. “Met officials and teams working tirelessly in the aftermath. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy.”

    He was accompanied by Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Gujarat State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and other senior officials during the site inspection.

    Flight AI-171, headed to London Gatwick, crashed into the hostel complex of BJ Medical College at 1:38 p.m. IST on Thursday, triggering a massive blaze and a large-scale emergency response.

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the crash site on Thursday and later chaired a high-level meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Naidu, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and senior officials to review relief and rescue measures.

    Shah said DNA testing was underway to confirm the identities of the victims and assured that results would be delivered at the earliest by Gujarat’s Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU). DNA samples of family members arriving from abroad would be collected on arrival, he added.

    A formal investigation into the crash has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in accordance with international protocols under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), said Civil Aviation Minister Naidu. A high-level expert committee is also being formed to examine the incident and suggest safety improvements to prevent future tragedies.

    The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced it would send a team of investigators to India to assist the AAIB.

    “The NTSB will be leading a team of US investigators travelling to India to assist the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau with its investigation into the crash of an Air India Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad, India, Thursday,” the agency said, noting that all official updates would come from the Indian government under ICAO’s Annex 13 protocols.

    Rescue and Relief Operations Continue

    Rescue operations continued through the night as teams sifted through debris for missing aircraft parts.

    Parts of the plane’s fuselage were scattered around the smouldering building into which it crashed. The tail of the plane was stuck on top of the building.

    Air India CEO Campbell Wilson reached Ahmedabad early Friday. The airline said it had set up Friends & Relatives Assistance Centres at Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gatwick airports to support the families of those on board.

    “These centres are facilitating the travel of family members to Ahmedabad,” Air India posted on X. Emergency contact numbers were also issued for those seeking information: 1800 5691 444 for calls from within India, and +91 8062779200 for international callers.

    The Tata Group, which took over Air India in 2022, announced a compensation of Rs 1 crore for the family of each deceased passenger.

    “Tata Group will provide Rs 1 crore to the families of each person who has lost their life in this tragedy. We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support. Additionally, we will provide support in the building up of the B J Medical’s hostel,” Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said on X.

    Earlier, Air India released a breakdown of the nationalities of those on board: 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

    (With inputs from agencies)

  • After Israel strikes Iran, airlines divert flights, airspace closed

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Airlines cleared out of the airspace over Israel, Iran and Iraq and Jordan on Friday after Israel launched attacks on targets in Iran, Flightradar24 data showed, with carriers scrambling to divert and cancel flights to keep passengers and crew safe.

    Proliferating conflict zones around the world are becoming an increasing burden on airline operations and profitability, and more of a safety concern.

    Six commercial aircraft have been shot down unintentionally and three nearly missed since 2001, according to aviation risk consultancy Osprey Flight Solutions.

    Israel on Friday said it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was closed until further notice, and Israel’s air defence units stood at high alert for possible retaliatory strikes from Iran.

    Israeli flag carrier El Al Airlines said it had suspended flights to and from Israel.

    Iranian airspace has been closed until further notice, according to state media and notices to pilots.

    As reports of strikes on Iran emerged, a number of commercial flights by airlines including Dubai’s Emirates, Lufthansa and Air India were flying over Iran.

    Air India, which overflies Iran for its Europe and North American flights, said several flights were being diverted or returned to their origin, including ones from New York, Vancouver, Chicago and London.

    Emirates and Lufthansa did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

    Iraq early on Friday closed its airspace and suspended all traffic at its airports, Iraqi state media reported.

    Eastern Iraq near the border with Iran contains one of the world’s busiest air corridors, with dozens of flights crossing between Europe and the Gulf, many on routes from Asia to Europe, at any one moment.

    Flights steadily diverted over Central Asia or Saudi Arabia, flight tracking data showed.

    Jordan, which sits between Israel and Iraq, closed its airspace several hours after the Israeli campaign began.

    “The situation is still emerging – operators should use a high degree of caution in the region at this time,” according to Safe Airspace, a website run by OPSGROUP, a membership-based organisation that shares flight risk information.

    Several flights due to land in Dubai were diverted early on Friday. An Emirates flight from Manchester to Dubai was diverted to Istanbul and a flydubai flight from Belgrade diverted to Yerevan, Armenia.

    Budget carrier flydubai said it had suspended flights to Amman, Beirut, Damascus, Iran and Israel and a number of other flights had been cancelled, rerouted or returned to their departure airports.

    Qatar Airways cancelled its two scheduled flights to Damascus on Friday, Flightradar24 data shows.

    The Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East since October 2023 led to commercial aviation sharing the skies with short-notice barrages of drones and missiles across major flight paths – some of which were reportedly close enough to be seen by pilots and passengers.

    Airspace in the Middle East last year was crossed daily by 1,400 flights to and from Europe, Eurocontrol data show.

    Last year, planes were shot down by weaponry in Kazakhstan and in Sudan. These incidents followed the high-profile downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014 and of Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 en route from Tehran in 2020.

    (Reuters)

  • IAEA says no increase in radiation levels at Iran’s Natanz nuclear site

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The International Atomic Energy Agency on Friday said there was no increase in radiation levels at the Natanz nuclear site that was targeted during an Israeli attack, citing information given to them by Iranian authorities.

    The international atomic energy watchdog also added that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted during the attack.

    More to follow.

    (Reuters)

  • WTC final, Day 3: Australia target bigger lead as Cummins reflects on milestone wicket

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australia will look to add 20 to 30 more runs to their second innings total when the third day of the World Test Championship final against South Africa resumes at Lord’s on Friday, said captain Pat Cummins.

    Australia will resume on 144-8 in the second innings, a total of 218 runs ahead as they seek to set an imposing target for South Africa to chase to win the match.

    “Initially, we felt anything over 200 was good but you just want to get as many runs as you can,” Cummins told a press conference at the end of Thursday’s play.

    “Hopefully we’ll get another 20 or 30 in the morning. That’d be good. I think that would give us a few more options to bowl at, allow a few more aggressive fields and those kind of things.”

    Mitchell Starc was unbeaten on 16 and Nathan Lyon had one run at stumps on Thursday.

    In test history at Lord’s there have only been three higher targets successfully chased down, so Australia look to be in the driving seat in a match dominated by high-quality bowling.

    The pick of the bunch was Cummins, who produced the best bowling figures by a test captain at Lord’s as his 6-28 gave Australia a 74-run first-innings lead.

    He also brought up 300 test wickets when Kagiso Rabada was the last wicket in South Africa’s first innings to fall.

    “That’s something I always kind of thought about as a pretty good sign of durability, resilience and longevity. So, I feel pretty proud to join that group,” he added.

    The first test wicket for the 32-year-old was against South Africa in Johannesburg in late 2011.

    “I’ve had a really good run the last half a dozen years or so of not missing too many games. You know for the first few years I didn’t know where my second test match was coming.

    “I feel like I’ve got lots of miles in the legs and don’t feel like I’m going to end any anytime soon.

    “I really need to thank the medical staff, the way they looked after me in the early years to get through test matches,” he added.

    (With agency input)

  • Indian stock market opens in red as Israel-Iran tensions rise

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian benchmark indices opened sharply lower on Friday as escalating tensions between Israel and Iran rattled investor sentiment. Heavy selling pressure was witnessed in auto, IT, financial services, and PSU bank stocks during early trade.

    At around 9:33 a.m., the Sensex was trading 896.50 points, or 1.10 per cent, lower at 80,795.44, while the Nifty fell 278.50 points, or 1.12 per cent, to 24,609.70.

    The Nifty Bank index dropped 633.80 points, or 1.13 per cent, to 55,448.75. The Nifty Midcap 100 declined by 603.90 points, or 1.03 per cent, to trade at 57,836.95, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 was down 192.75 points, or 1.04 per cent, at 18,272.30.

    Analysts warned that the economic fallout from Israel’s military action could be severe if hostilities with Iran persist. Israel has already declared that its operation could last several days.

    “The market impact will depend on the duration of the conflict. In the near term, investors are likely to adopt a risk-off approach. Sectors dependent on oil derivatives—such as aviation, paints, adhesives, and tyres—may face pressure. In contrast, oil producers like ONGC and Oil India could prove more resilient,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    The Nifty had already closed over one per cent lower in the previous session amid signs of rising geopolitical tension in the Middle East. As of this morning, Israel has launched pre-emptive strikes on Iran, prompting a broad-based risk-off sentiment across global markets.

    “Technically, Wednesday’s ‘buyer rejection’ candle, which followed the bearish ‘upside gap two crows’ pattern earlier in the week, was a clear warning of caution building in the market,” noted Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities.

    Among the top laggards in the Sensex pack were Tata Motors, L&T, PowerGrid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, SBI, Titan, and Infosys.

    Across Asian markets, indices in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Jakarta, Japan, Seoul, and China were all trading in the red.

    In the previous U.S. trading session, the Dow Jones closed at 42,967.62, up 101.85 points or 0.24 per cent. The S&P 500 gained 23.02 points or 0.38 per cent to end at 6,045.26, while the Nasdaq rose by 46.61 points or 0.24 per cent to close at 19,662.49.

    On the institutional front, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) extended their selling for the second consecutive day, offloading equities worth ₹3,831.42 crore on June 12. Meanwhile, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought equities worth ₹9,393.85 crore on the same day.

    — IANS

  • Israel hits Iran nuclear facilities, missile factories; Tehran vows revenge

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel launched widescale strikes against Iran on Friday, saying it targeted nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders and that this was start of a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    Iranian media and witnesses reported explosions including at the country’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz, while Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes.

    Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards corps said its top commander, Hossein Salami, was killed and state media reported the unit’s headquarters in Tehran had been hit. Several children had been killed in a strike on a residential area in the capital, it said.

    “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a recorded video message.

    “Moments ago Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a statement that Israel had “unleashed its wicked and bloody” hand in a crime against Iran and that it would receive “a bitter fate for itself”.

    An Israeli military official said Israel was striking “dozens” of nuclear and military targets including the facility at Natanz in central Iran. The official said Iran had enough material to make 15 nuclear bombs within days.

    The United States said it had no part in the operation, which raises the risk of a fresh escalation in tensions in the Middle East, a major oil producing region.

    Alongside extensive air strikes, Israel’s Mossad spy agency led a series of covert sabotage operations inside Iran, Axios reported, citing a senior Israeli official. These operations were aimed at damaging Iran’s strategic missile sites and its air defence capabilities.

    Iranian state media reported that at least two nuclear scientists, Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi were killed in Israeli strikes in Tehran.

    Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was closed until further notice, and Israel’s air defence units stood at high alert for possible retaliatory strikes from Iran.

    “Following the pre-emptive strike by the State of Israel against Iran, a missile and UAV (drone) attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate time frame,” Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a statement.

    Israeli military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said tens of thousands of soldiers had been called up and “prepared across all borders”.

    “We are amidst a historic campaign unlike any other. This is a critical operation to prevent an existential threat, by an enemy who is intent on destroying us,” he said.

    Israeli Minister Gideon Saar was holding “marathon of calls” with counterparts around the world regarding Israel’s attack on Iran, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

    U.S. “NOT INVOLVED”

    U.S. President Donald Trump said that Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and that the United States was hoping to get back to the negotiating table, in an interview with Fox News after the start of the Israeli air strikes on Iran.

    “We will see,” Fox News reporter Jennifer Griffin quoted Trump as saying in a post on X.

    Trump would convene a meeting of the National Security Council on Friday morning, the White House said. He had said on Thursday an Israeli strike on Iran “could very well happen” but reiterated his hopes for a peaceful resolution.

    The U.S. military is planning for the full range of contingencies in the Middle East, including the possibility that it might have to help evacuate American civilians, a U.S. official told Reuters.

    Iran’s armed forces spokesperson said Israel and its chief ally the United States would pay a “heavy price” for the attack, accusing Washington of providing support for the operation.

    While the U.S. tried to distance itself from Israel’s military operation, an Israeli official told public broadcaster Kan that Israel had coordinated with Washington on Iran.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States was not involved in the strikes and Tel Aviv had acted unilaterally for self-defence.

    “We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said in a statement.

    “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel,” he added.

    The State Department issued an advisory saying that all U.S. government employees in Israel and their family members should “shelter in place until further notice”.

    The attacks triggered sharp falls in stock prices in Asian trade on Friday, led by a selloff in U.S. futures, while oil prices jumped as investors scurried to safe havens such as gold and the Swiss franc.

    U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned any military escalation in the Middle East, said deputy U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq.

    “The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford,” Haq said.

    NUCLEAR TALKS

    U.S. and Iranian officials were scheduled to hold a sixth round of talks on Tehran’s escalating uranium enrichment programme in Oman on Sunday, according to officials from both countries and their Omani mediators.

    A U.S. official said those talks were still scheduled to proceed despite the Israeli attack.

    The Israeli military said on Friday that it was forced to act based on new intelligence information showing that Iran was “approaching the point of no return” in the development of a nuclear weapon.

    “In recent months, this program has accelerated significantly, bringing the regime significantly closer to obtaining a nuclear weapon,” it said in a statement, without disclosing the purported evidence.

    A source familiar with U.S. intelligence reports said there had been no recent change in the U.S. intelligence assessment that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon and that Khamenei had not authorised the restarting of the nuclear weapons programme that was shuttered in 2003.

    (Reuters)

  • FIFA World Cup: Miami officials play down travel concerns a year from kick-off

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As a gleaming clock began ticking towards the 2026 World Cup, Miami officials launched the city’s one-year countdown seeking to allay fears that America’s stricter immigration stance could deter the overseas fans that it hopes to attract.

    The celebratory unveiling on Wednesday, featuring singer Marc Anthony, came just days after unrest in Los Angeles and amid the implementation of stricter border controls under President Donald Trump’s administration.

    “I don’t think anybody has anything to be afraid of. Miami is an incredibly welcoming place, and we’re very excited to welcome the world,” Alina T. Hudak, president of the 2026 Miami Host Committee, said at the countdown event.

    The digital clock, soon to greet travellers at Miami International Airport, marks 365 days until the start of the biggest World Cup in history — 48 teams playing 104 matches across three North American nations.

    However, security arrangements have drawn particular scrutiny, especially regarding the involvement of immigration enforcement agencies.

    Marcio Carvalho Da Silva Correia, a Brazilian visitor to Miami, told Reuters he had heard people talking about concerns they had about the World Cup.

    “They’re scared they’ll show up and get deported,” he said.

    “But I think, given how beautiful the party is going to be, nothing like that is going to happen.”

    Rodney Barreto, co-chair of the Miami Host Committee, confirmed that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be involved in security operations.

    “They will be there to support us with security, but not to capture people,” he said.

    At Fiorito, an Argentine restaurant in Miami’s Little Haiti neighbourhood, fans of the South American nation’s defending champions expressed confidence that their countrymen would travel regardless.

    “Wherever the World Cup is, it’s great … we’re excited about being world champions and we can do much more,” Argentina supporter Nicolas Lomazzi.

    For Miami, a city shaped by successive waves of immigration, hosting the tournament represents a delicate balancing act — showcasing its multicultural identity while navigating an increasingly complex immigration landscape.

    Brazilian-born Miami resident Pedro Lub said the city’s Latino population was really excited about soccer’s biggest tournament coming to town and he hoped the immigration authorities did not use it as an excuse for a crackdown.

    “I have a lot of friends that are in weird situations without status or something like that and yeah, everybody’s worried,” he told Reuters.

    “People are just trying to watch a soccer match. It’d be pretty bad if they got caught just trying to have fun.

    “I think people are expecting it to be a great tournament.”

    -Reuters

  • NASA delays Axiom-4 mission to ISS amid Russian module air leak concerns

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA indefinitely delayed a four-person crew’s mission to the International Space Station on Thursday over an escalating probe into air leaks aboard the orbiting laboratory’s Russian segment.

    The U.S. space agency said it was working with Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency, to “understand a new pressure signature” detected by cosmonauts in the Zvezda Service Module, a more than 2-decade-old core compartment that for months has sprung small leaks.

    “Cosmonauts aboard the space station recently performed inspections of the pressurized module’s interior surfaces, sealed some additional areas of interest, and measured the current leak rate,” NASA said in a statement. “Following this effort, the segment now is holding pressure.”

    The agency did not immediately respond to questions on what the leak rate was.

    Small cracks on the ISS in recent years, particularly on the aging Russian segment, have contributed to the international partnership’s decision to retire the ISS by 2030.

    Leaks of air from the cracks have been minor and posed no immediate safety threats to the station‘s astronauts but are increasingly worrisome signs of aging that NASA and Roscosmos have been investigating, while having crew members patch the leaks with tape, glue and other solutions.

    Scheduled to be aboard the Axiom Mission 4 is Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot and one of four astronauts-in-training picked by the Indian Space Research Organization to fly on India’s own debut crewed mission, the Gaganyaan mission planned for 2027.

    Shukla, 39, will be the first astronaut to go to the ISS from India’s astronaut corps.

    -Reuters

  • Delhi airport issues travel advisory amid Iran-Israel tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday issued a travel advisory for passengers flying to Iran and Iraq, urging them to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight schedules and operational updates. The advisory comes amid escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel and growing uncertainty over the region’s airspace.

    The IGIA statement said: “Delhi operations are running smoothly. However, due to the evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq, and the neighbouring region, some flight schedules have been impacted.

    Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. We strongly urge all passengers to rely only on official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.”

    On Friday, Israel said it had targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and senior military commanders in the initial phase of what it described as a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

    Air India aslo announced that it has altered the routes of several flights. In a post on X, the airline said: “Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, the following 16 Air India flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.

    We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimize it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellations or complimentary rescheduling are also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations.”

    Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a separate advisory for Indian nationals in Israel, urging them to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential movement, and strictly follow local safety instructions.

    Sharing the message on social media, the Indian mission underscored the importance of caution and preparedness for citizens residing in or travelling through Israel.

    “In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols as advised by the Israeli authorities and Home Front Command (https://oref.org.il/eng). Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country, and stay close to safety shelters,” the Embassy posted on X.

    The Embassy also urged Indian citizens to stay informed through official sources and to remain in contact with the mission in case of any emergency.

  • Air India crash in Ahmedabad: 241 dead, only one survivor among 242 on board

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    nly one passenger survived after an Air India flight carrying 242 people crashed shortly after take-off in Ahmedabad on Thursday, the airline said in a statement.

    “We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital,” Air India said.

    “The survivor is a British national of Indian origin,” it added.

    Air India also released a breakdown of the nationalities of those on board: 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

    Flight AI-171, bound for London Gatwick, went down minutes after departing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 p.m. IST. The aircraft crashed into a residential complex near BJ Medical College, sparking a massive fire and triggering a large-scale emergency response.

    In a separate post on X, the airline said it has established support centers at multiple airports to assist the families of the victims.

    “Air India has set up Friends & Relatives Assistance Centres at Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Gatwick airports to provide support and take care of the needs of the families and loved ones of those on flight AI171. These centres are facilitating the travel of family members to Ahmedabad,” the airline said.

    Emergency contact numbers have also been shared for those seeking information: 1800 5691 444 for calls from within India, and +91 8062779200 for international callers.

  • Oil soars more than 9% after Israel strikes Iran, rattling investors

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Oil prices surged more than 9% on Friday, hitting their highest in almost five months after Israel struck Iran, dramatically escalating tensions in the Middle East and raising worries about disrupted oil supplies.

    Brent crude futures LCOc1 jumped $6.29, or 9.07%, to $75.65 a barrel by 0315 GMT after hitting an intraday high of $78.50, the highest since January 27. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 was up $6.43, or 9.45%, at $74.47 a barrel after hitting a high of $77.62, the loftiest since January 21.

    Friday’s gains were the largest intraday moves for both contracts since 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine, causing energy prices to spike.

    Israel said it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders on Friday at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    “This has elevated geopolitical uncertainty significantly and requires the oil market to price in a larger risk premium for any potential supply disruptions,” ING analysts led by Warren Patterson said in a note.

    Several oil traders in Singapore said it was still too early to say if the strike will affect Middle East oil shipments as it will depend on how Iran retaliates and if the U.S. will intervene.

    “It’s too early to tell but I think the market is worried about shutting off of the Strait of Hormuz,” one of the traders said.

    MST Marquee senior energy analyst Saul Kavonic said the conflict would need to escalate to the point of Iranian retaliation on oil infrastructure in the region before oil supply is materially impacted.

    He added that Iran could hinder up to 20 million barrels per day of oil supply via attacks on infrastructure or limiting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, in an extreme scenario.

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Israel will receive “harsh punishment” following Friday’s attack that he said killed several military commanders.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday called Israel’s strikes against Iran a “unilateral action” and said Washington was not involved while also urging Tehran not to target U.S. interests or personnel in the region.

    “Iran has announced an emergency and is preparing to retaliate, which raises the risk of not just disruptions but of contagion in other neighbouring oil producing nations too,” said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.

    “Although Trump has shown reluctance to participate, U.S. involvement could further raise concerns.”

    In other markets, stocks dived in early Asian trade, led by a selloff in U.S. futures, while investors scurried to safe havens such as gold and the Swiss franc.

    (Reuters)

  • Israel strikes Iran nuclear facilities, missile factories

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel said it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders on Friday at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    Iranian media and witnesses reported explosions including at the country’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz, while Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes.

    Iranian state television reported that Hossein Salami, the chief of the elite Revolutionary Guards corps, had been killed and the unit’s headquarters in Tehran had been hit. Several children had been killed in a strike on a residential area in the capital, it said.

    “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a recorded video message.

    “Moments ago Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a statement that Israel had “unleashed its wicked and bloody” hand in a crime against Iran and that it would receive “a bitter fate for itself”.

    An Israeli military official said Israel was striking “dozens” of nuclear and military targets including the facility at Natanz in central Iran. The official said Iran had enough material to make 15 nuclear bombs within days.

    The United States said it had no part in the operation, which raises the risk of a fresh escalation in tensions in the Middle East, a major oil producing region.

    Alongside extensive air strikes, Israel’s Mossad spy agency led a series of covert sabotage operations inside Iran, Axios reported, citing a senior Israeli official. These operations were aimed at damaging Iran’s strategic missile sites and its air defence capabilities.

    Iranian state media reported that at least two nuclear scientists, Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi were killed in Israeli strikes in Tehran.

    Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was closed until further notice, and Israel’s air defence units stood at high alert for possible retaliatory strikes from Iran.

    “Following the pre-emptive strike by the State of Israel against Iran, a missile and UAV (drone) attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate time frame,” Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a statement.

    Israeli military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said tens of thousands of soldiers had been called up and “prepared across all borders”.

    “We are amidst a historic campaign unlike any other. This is a critical operation to prevent an existential threat, by an enemy who is intent on destroying us,” he said.

    Israeli Minister Gideon Saar was holding “marathon of calls” with counterparts around the world regarding Israel’s attack on Iran, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

    U.S. “NOT INVOLVED”

    U.S. President Donald Trump would convene a meeting of the National Security Council on Friday morning, the White House said.

    Iran’s armed forces spokesperson said Israel and its chief ally the United States would pay a “heavy price” for the attack, accusing Washington of providing support for the operation.

    An Israeli official told Israel public broadcaster Kan that Israel had coordinated with Washington on the strikes.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio however said the United States was not involved and Tel Aviv had acted unilaterally for self-defence.

    “We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said in a statement.

    “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel,” he added.

    The State Department issued an advisory saying that all U.S. government employees in Israel and their family members should “shelter in place until further notice”.

    The attacks triggered sharp falls in stock prices in early Asian trade on Friday, led by a selloff in U.S. futures, while oil prices jumped as investors scurried to safe havens such as gold and the Swiss franc.

    NUCLEAR TALKS DEADLOCKED

    U.S. and Iranian officials were scheduled to hold a sixth round of talks on Tehran’s escalating uranium enrichment program in Oman on Sunday, according to officials from both countries and their Omani mediators. But the talks have appeared to be deadlocked.

    Trump said on Thursday an Israeli strike on Iran “could very well happen” but reiterated his hopes for a peaceful resolution.

    A source familiar with U.S. intelligence reports said there has been no recent change in the U.S. intelligence assessment that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and that Khamenei has not authorised the restarting of the nuclear weapons program that was shuttered in 2003.

    Even so, U.S. intelligence had indicated that Israel was preparing a strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities.

    The U.S. military was planning for the full range of contingencies in the Middle East, including the possibility that it might have to help evacuate American civilians, a U.S. official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

    (Reuters)