The launch of the American Axiom-4 astronaut mission to the International Space Station has seen a series of delays spanning nearly three weeks, and there are indications that the mission could be further delayed. The four astronauts are prepared for their flight to the International Space Station but remain grounded and quarantined due to seemingly endless delays caused by various reasons.&nbsp;The launch, originally targeted for May 29th, was pushed to June 8th, June 9th, June 10th, June 11th, with the next targeted launch date being June 19th. However, at the time of writing this report, there is no specific launch time that has been shared by the entities involved. Usually, the time of rocket liftoff is shared at least a week ahead. In this case, it is learnt that the launch will not be taking place on the targeted date of June 19th, and a new targeted date is not yet announced by the concerned organisations.&nbsp;So far, this mission has been delayed owing to the replacement of parts on the SpaceX Crew Dragon Spacecraft, technical issues with a Falcon 9 rocket engine, unfavourable weather, a liquid oxygen leak in the Falcon 9 rocket, and an anomaly in the Russian Zvezda module on the International Space Station. Indian Air Force test pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will be the second-in-command of this mission that will ferry four astronauts to the International Space Station.&nbsp;In preparation for a spaceflight, the astronauts have to maintain peak mental and physical health. A delay would mean that they must sustain that peak for a longer period of time. It must be recalled that the Axiom-4 crew have been in quarantine (technically known as a Health Stabilization Program) since the last week of May and continue to remain in isolation. Pre-launch quarantine is followed to closely monitor the astronauts’ health to avoid exposure to any last-minute illness. Quarantine is also important to ensure that the astronauts flying to the space station don’t carry any infection to the closed environment of the International Space Station, which is their destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is known that the astronauts heading on the NASA Apollo Moon missions were kept in quarantine for three weeks. In contrast, contemporary astronauts are required to follow a two-week quarantine. Therefore, it is safe to say that the Axiom-4 crew have spent an unusually long time in isolation, going by contemporary spaceflight norms. Similarly, owing to multiple launch delays, Boeing Starliner crew members Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are also said to have endured long quarantines due to their spaceflight getting delayed from May 2024 to June 2024.&nbsp;<h2>Opportunities for launch till June 30th or from mid-July&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;“In terms of launch opportunities, we have opportunities all the way to June 30th,” Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA, had said earlier this month. Typically, every rocket launch mission has a launch window/launch opportunity—an ideal period of a few days or weeks within which the launch can take place. On each of these specific days within the launch window, there are a few minutes when the rocket can blast off to space. All of these launch times are precisely planned down to the second, based on various technical parameters. Which is why many rocket launch missions happen at odd hours, and no two missions (even of the same type) follow the same launch time or schedule. In case SpaceX and Axiom Space are unable to launch in the month of June, there are opportunities from mid-July, she added.&nbsp;<h2>3 first-timers and a veteran astronaut endure endless wait</h2>&nbsp;Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they would stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments. The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule. Peggy Whitson, America’s seniormost astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot or second-in-command. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Apart from Peggy, all those aboard this mission are first-time astronauts. Therefore, the impact of these delays on the ‘first-timer’ astronauts’ families must also be factored in.&nbsp;This Axiom-4 mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance.&nbsp;Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station, and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian Government has paid almost $64 million (Rs.550 crore) for Shukla’s training and spaceflight as part of Axiom-4. As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos, as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>How delays affect the science experiments carried by astronauts&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;India's Shukla will be carrying seven experiments with him to the microgravity environment of the International Space Station. Some of the experiments involve biological material (seeds, bacteria, muscle cells) and are time-sensitive in nature. Ideally, had the launch happened on 8th June, the astronauts would have completed their mission and returned to earth by the June 22nd or so. However, with the sensitive experiments languishing on Earth for over three weeks, they too require replacement/specific care to be maintained in pristine condition.

In preparation for a spaceflight, the astronauts have to maintain peak mental and physical health. A delay would mean that they must sustain that peak for a longer period of time.

The launch of the American Axiom-4 astronaut mission to the International Space Station has seen a series of delays spanning nearly three weeks, and there are indications that the mission could be further delayed. The four astronauts are prepared for their flight to the International Space Station but remain grounded and quarantined due to seemingly endless delays caused by various reasons. The launch, originally targeted for May 29th, was pushed to June 8th, June 9th, June 10th, June 11th, with the next targeted launch date being June 19th. However, at the time of writing this report, there is no specific launch time that has been shared by the entities involved. Usually, the time of rocket liftoff is shared at least a week ahead. In this case, it is learnt that the launch will not be taking place on the targeted date of June 19th, and a new targeted date is not yet announced by the concerned organisations. So far, this mission has been delayed owing to the replacement of parts on the SpaceX Crew Dragon Spacecraft, technical issues with a Falcon 9 rocket engine, unfavourable weather, a liquid oxygen leak in the Falcon 9 rocket, and an anomaly in the Russian Zvezda module on the International Space Station. Indian Air Force test pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will be the second-in-command of this mission that will ferry four astronauts to the International Space Station. In preparation for a spaceflight, the astronauts have to maintain peak mental and physical health. A delay would mean that they must sustain that peak for a longer period of time. It must be recalled that the Axiom-4 crew have been in quarantine (technically known as a Health Stabilization Program) since the last week of May and continue to remain in isolation. Pre-launch quarantine is followed to closely monitor the astronauts’ health to avoid exposure to any last-minute illness. Quarantine is also important to ensure that the astronauts flying to the space station don’t carry any infection to the closed environment of the International Space Station, which is their destination. It is known that the astronauts heading on the NASA Apollo Moon missions were kept in quarantine for three weeks. In contrast, contemporary astronauts are required to follow a two-week quarantine. Therefore, it is safe to say that the Axiom-4 crew have spent an unusually long time in isolation, going by contemporary spaceflight norms. Similarly, owing to multiple launch delays, Boeing Starliner crew members Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are also said to have endured long quarantines due to their spaceflight getting delayed from May 2024 to June 2024. Opportunities for launch till June 30th or from mid-July “In terms of launch opportunities, we have opportunities all the way to June 30th,” Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA, had said earlier this month. Typically, every rocket launch mission has a launch window/launch opportunity—an ideal period of a few days or weeks within which the launch can take place. On each of these specific days within the launch window, there are a few minutes when the rocket can blast off to space. All of these launch times are precisely planned down to the second, based on various technical parameters. Which is why many rocket launch missions happen at odd hours, and no two missions (even of the same type) follow the same launch time or schedule. In case SpaceX and Axiom Space are unable to launch in the month of June, there are opportunities from mid-July, she added. 3 first-timers and a veteran astronaut endure endless wait Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they would stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments. The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule. Peggy Whitson, America’s seniormost astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot or second-in-command. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Apart from Peggy, all those aboard this mission are first-time astronauts. Therefore, the impact of these delays on the ‘first-timer’ astronauts’ families must also be factored in. This Axiom-4 mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station, and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian Government has paid almost $64 million (Rs.550 crore) for Shukla’s training and spaceflight as part of Axiom-4. As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos, as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity. How delays affect the science experiments carried by astronauts India's Shukla will be carrying seven experiments with him to the microgravity environment of the International Space Station. Some of the experiments involve biological material (seeds, bacteria, muscle cells) and are time-sensitive in nature. Ideally, had the launch happened on 8th June, the astronauts would have completed their mission and returned to earth by the June 22nd or so. However, with the sensitive experiments languishing on Earth for over three weeks, they too require replacement/specific care to be maintained in pristine condition.

In preparation for a spaceflight, the astronauts have to maintain peak mental and physical health. A delay would mean that they must sustain that peak for a longer period of time.

Axiom-4 astronauts in quarantine for 3 weeks, with no launch date in sight

The Indian Government has announced a decision to further extend its financial assistance to the ongoing passenger ferry service between Nagapattinan in the Southern Indian state of&nbsp; Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in the island nation of&nbsp;Sri Lanka. According to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this assistance will be extended for another year and is in line with India's commitment towards enhancing regional connectivity and historic people-to-people ties between the two nations.&nbsp;The financial support is being extended under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism, amounting to over LKR 300 million annually(approx $1mn). It is aimed at ensuring the affordability and operational sustainability of the service by covering key logistical and operational costs, on terms similar to the previous year.Since its resumption in&nbsp;August 2024, the four-hour-long ride via the Palk Straits has facilitated the movement of over 15,000 passengers, reinforcing cultural, economic, and social exchanges between India and the neighbouring island nation. This ferry service stands as a key milestone in revitalising maritime connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Notably, the ferry ticket cost is also considerably more affordable than flight tickets between Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Jaffna, Sri Lanka.The continuation of the financial support for the ferry service also aligns with the shared vision for enhanced maritime connectivity, as reaffirmed during the visit of the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's India visit in&nbsp;December 2024, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Sri Lanka visit in&nbsp;April 2025.Future plans include the exploration of additional routes and services that will further expand connectivity and economic collaboration, said the Indian High Commission in Colombo.&nbsp;

India extends financial support for the Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai passenger ferry service for another year under the Viability Gap Funding scheme, reinforcing affordable regional connectivity, cultural ties, and maritime collaboration with Sri Lanka

The Indian Government has announced a decision to further extend its financial assistance to the ongoing passenger ferry service between Nagapattinan in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in the island nation of Sri Lanka. According to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this assistance will be extended for another year and is in line with India's commitment towards enhancing regional connectivity and historic people-to-people ties between the two nations. The financial support is being extended under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism, amounting to over LKR 300 million annually(approx $1mn). It is aimed at ensuring the affordability and operational sustainability of the service by covering key logistical and operational costs, on terms similar to the previous year. Since its resumption in August 2024, the four-hour-long ride via the Palk Straits has facilitated the movement of over 15,000 passengers, reinforcing cultural, economic, and social exchanges between India and the neighbouring island nation. This ferry service stands as a key milestone in revitalising maritime connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Notably, the ferry ticket cost is also considerably more affordable than flight tickets between Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The continuation of the financial support for the ferry service also aligns with the shared vision for enhanced maritime connectivity, as reaffirmed during the visit of the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's India visit in December 2024, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Sri Lanka visit in April 2025. Future plans include the exploration of additional routes and services that will further expand connectivity and economic collaboration, said the Indian High Commission in Colombo.

India extends financial support for the Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai passenger ferry service for another year under the Viability Gap Funding scheme, reinforcing affordable regional connectivity, cultural ties, and maritime collaboration with Sri Lanka

India continues financial assistance for Tamil Nadu- Sri Lanka ferry service

While there is emerging concern and speculation over the repeated delays in the launch of four astronauts to the International Space Station, a top NASA official has said that there are launch opportunities all the way till June 30th.&nbsp;&nbsp;Originally scheduled for launch on May 29th, the American Axiom-4 mission has been pushed repeatedly - June 8th, June 10th, June 12th, and now stands indefinitely postponed. A mix of technical reasons related to the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, Falcon 9 rocket, and weather have led to such events. "In terms of launch opportunities, we have opportunities all the way to June 30th," said Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇮🇳Shubhanshu Shukla/Axiom-4 spaceflight delay: Axiom-4 mission can be launched any day till 30th June... After that, we have opportunities from 2nd week of July. Plenty of launch opportunities, says Dana Weigel, Manager, Int&#39;l Space Station Program, NASA <a href="https://t.co/kFJRbn1eDB">pic.twitter.com/kFJRbn1eDB</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1932687522607608098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Typically, every rocket launch mission has a launch window/launch opportunity- an ideal period of a few days or weeks within which the launch can take place. On each of these specific days within the launch window, there are a few minutes when the rocket can blastoff to space.&nbsp;&nbsp;All of these launch times are precisely planned down to the second, based on various technical parameters. Which is why many rocket launch missions happen at odd hours, and no two missions(even of the same type) follow the same launch time or schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;In case SpaceX and Axiom Space are unable to launch in the month of June, there are opportunities in July as well, said Weigel. "Russians have a Progress cargo vehicle undocking from the International Space Station and new one docking, so we have a brief cut out for that. And then, a brief cut out for high solar beta. And then we have launch opportunities in the second week of July/middle of July. Plenty of opportunities to fly the vehicle," she elaborated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Predominantly, only America and Russia launch crafts to the International Space Station. Therefore, the two have to plan their traffic accordingly and coordinate the arrivals and departures with regards the Space Station. This is why Dana mentioned of a break in the month of July.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further, while launching astronaut-carrying spacecrafts to the Space Station, a technical parameter called Solar Beta needs to be factored in- it determines how much during each orbit the spacecraft is exposed to sunlight or Earth's shadow. This affects the heating or cooling of the spacecraft, ability of solar panels to generate power. For example, while circling the earth, when a spacecraft is exposed to a lot of sunlight, it could suffer overheating issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;Announcing the latest postponement, SpaceX said, "Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the <a href="https://x.com/Space_Station">@Space_Station</a>&nbsp;to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections. Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date."&nbsp;&nbsp;The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket faces a liquid oxygen leak issue. The Falcon 9 burns a mix of rocket-grade kerosene and liquid oxygen to generate thrust for liftoff, therefore a leak of liquid oxygen poses a serious threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Monday June 9th, SpaceX has announced that there was a problem with the Thrust Vector Control system in the 5th&nbsp;engine of the nine-engine Falcon 9 rocket. SpaceX also said that they have fixed the issue. Further, they also claimed to have fixed the oxygen leak issue, but the present scenario shows that the their claimed fix did not suffice and the leak persists. This is likely to further delay the mission.&nbsp;<h3>About Axiom-4 human spaceflight mission&nbsp;</h3>Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they would stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments.&nbsp;&nbsp;The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule.&nbsp;Peggy Whitson, veteran NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at&nbsp;Axiom&nbsp;Space, will command the&nbsp;Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot or second-in-command. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. This mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance.&nbsp;Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station, and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian Government has paid almost $64mn(Rs.550cr) for Shukla's training and spaceflight as part of Axiom-4.&nbsp;As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM(Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos, as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a pre-launch media briefing, Indian Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla had said that he is excited about all aspects of the Axiom-4 spaceflight.&nbsp;&nbsp;"As I stand at the threshold of a 14-day mission to the Space Station, I reflect on the path that has brought me here. From diverse systems to advanced platforms across continents and cultures, this training has been intense and deeply rewarding. Behind every minute in space likes months, years of preparation," he remarked. For the fortnight-long mission, I carry with me not just instruments and equipment, but the hopes and dreams of a billion hearts, he added.

Axiom-4 spaceflight delay: Can launch on any day till June 30th, says NASA

While there is emerging concern and speculation over the repeated delays in the launch of four astronauts to the International Space Station, a top NASA official has said that there are launch opportunities all the way till June 30th. Originally scheduled for launch on May 29th, the American Axiom-4 mission has been pushed repeatedly - June 8th, June 10th, June 12th, and now stands indefinitely postponed. A mix of technical reasons related to the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, Falcon 9 rocket, and weather have led to such events. "In terms of launch opportunities, we have opportunities all the way to June 30th," said Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA.

Originally scheduled for launch on May 29th, the American Axiom-4 mission has been pushed repeatedly-June 8th, June 10th, June 12th, and now stands indefinitely postponed

In a social media post, the Chinese Embassy Spokesperson in India has thanked the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard for rescuing mariners in distress, following a ship fire off India's southwestern state of Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;The post was referring to the Singapore-flagged cargo ship MV Wan Hai 503, which continues to witness uncontrollable onboard explosions and fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Of the total 22 crew members on board, 14 are Chinese, including 6 from Taiwan," reads the cryptic part of the post. This is China's attempt to yet again show how they view Taiwan and Taiwan's self-governance, political stance.&nbsp;&nbsp;The MV Wan Hai 503 was sailing from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Mumbai, India, a maritime route that is along the Western Coast of Sri Lanka and Western Coast of India. The vessel departed Colombo on 6th&nbsp;June and was estimated to reach Mumbai on 9th June.&nbsp;&nbsp;"This is a very interesting twist that China is trying to give. China tries to use every situation, including a Humanitarian aid mission to claim its ownership on Taiwan, which is laughable. However, this is a standard trick to shape a narrative that Taiwan has always belonged to China. Therefore, China does not hesitate to even use a critical situation at sea, where lives have been saved irrespective of nationality. Indian Navy and Coast Guard do not look at Nationality when saving lives at sea, nor do they politicize a life-threatening situation," Commodore RS Vasan(Retd), Director General, Chennai Centre for China Studies, and Region Director of National Maritime Foundation, shared his comments with WION.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Retired Commodore had served in the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On June 9, MV Wan Hai 503 encountered onboard explosion and fire 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal, Kerala. Of the total 22 crew members on board, 14 are Chinese, including 6 from Taiwan. Our gratitude goes to the Indian Navy <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a> and the Mumbai Coast Guard for their prompt… <a href="https://t.co/3V8vr1xVW9">https://t.co/3V8vr1xVW9</a>&mdash; Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaSpox_India/status/1932337683998638249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Monday, June 9th, while sailing along the southwestern Indian state of Kerala, explosions were reported on the ship's deck, four of its 22 crew were said to be missing.&nbsp;&nbsp;At 9:30am, Indian authorities were alerted about the evolving maritime distress situation, following which the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy deployed their ships and aircraft.&nbsp;&nbsp;Given the kind of repeated explosions taking place on the distressed vessel, it is suspected that it has been carrying cargo of explosive nature. Due to the joint efforts of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, 18 of the ship's 22 crew have been rescued. The search for the remaining crew continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian Coast Guard and Naval assets continue to carry out at-sea firefighting to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. However, sustained firefighting also poses the risk of tilting the balance of the ablaze ship, due to excess water being sprayed onto it.&nbsp;Therefore, while the firefighting is underway, the water must also be pumped out of the ablaze ship, to ensure it is not tilted. According to the Indian Coast Guard, the ship is slightly titled to its Port side.&nbsp;&nbsp;On a boat or ship, the port side is the left side when facing the front. More than a dozen containers from the ship are learnt to have fallen into the water, and the ablaze vessel is adrift. The vessel is reported to be at a considerable distance from the shore.&nbsp;At around 11:30pm on Monday, INS Surat, a frontline destroyer-class warship of the Indian Navy disembarked the distressed vessel's rescued crew at Mangalore Port, Karnataka. The four crew who remain missing include two Taiwanese Nationals, one Indonesian and one Myanmarese national.&nbsp;&nbsp;Notably, this is the second major maritime incident off Kerala in two weeks. On May 25th, Liberian-flagged cargo ship had sunken quite close to the Kerala coast, due to unknown reasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;All 24 crew were rescued, thanks to efforts by the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. However, there were traces of oil and chemical spill in the aftermath of the ship's sinking.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Indian Coast Guard also carried out a pollution response activity to minimize its impact. However, there are stray incidents of plastic pellets, shipping container debris washing ashore in Kerala and adjoining Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Gratitude to Indian Navy China cryptically thanks India for rescuing Chinese Taiwan crew on board

In a social media post, the Chinese Embassy Spokesperson in India has thanked the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard for rescuing mariners in distress, following a ship fire off India's southwestern state of Kerala. The post was referring to the Singapore-flagged cargo ship MV Wan Hai 503, which continues to witness uncontrollable onboard explosions and fire. "Of the total 22 crew members on board, 14 are Chinese, including 6 from Taiwan," reads the cryptic part of the post. This is China's attempt to yet again show how they view Taiwan and Taiwan's self-governance, political stance. The MV Wan Hai 503 was sailing from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Mumbai, India, a maritime route that is along the Western Coast of Sri Lanka and Western Coast of India. The vessel departed Colombo on 6th June and was estimated to reach Mumbai on 9th June. "This is a very interesting twist that China is trying to give. China tries to use every situation, including a Humanitarian aid mission to claim its ownership on Taiwan, which is laughable. However, this is a standard trick to shape a narrative that Taiwan has always belonged to China. Therefore, China does not hesitate to even use a critical situation at sea, where lives have been saved irrespective of nationality. Indian Navy and Coast Guard do not look at Nationality when saving lives at sea, nor do they politicize a life-threatening situation," Commodore RS Vasan(Retd), Director General, Chennai Centre for China Studies, and Region Director of National Maritime Foundation, shared his comments with WION. The Retired Commodore had served in the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

The vessel departed Colombo on June 7 and was expected to reach Mumbai on June 10

'Gratitude to Indian Navy': China cryptically thanks India for rescuing Chinese, Taiwan crew on board

Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness.&nbsp;

&nbsp;During her training period at INS Rajali, speaking to WION’s Sidharth.M.P, Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Dubey said, “Being a pilot was a childhood dream... and being a pilot, doing something different led me to opt for aviation in the Indian Navy. I’m extremely fortunate to be part of Helicopter Training School, INS Rajali, which is the alma mater of all naval helicopter pilots.”&nbsp;Looking back at her father’s service in the Indian Air Force, Dubey said that she had grown up with aircraft all around her and flying was a long-held desire. Dubey’s father was a senior non-commissioned officer in the Air Force.&nbsp;The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, Search and Rescue, and anti-piracy operations. Notably, the Indian Navy operates a diverse fleet of European, Russian, American, and Indian-origin helicopters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command was the Reviewing Officer of the parade. In his address, he emphasised that the new helicopter pilots have learned not just how to fly, but how to fly with purpose.&nbsp;&nbsp;He told the graduating pilots that they wear the wings of gold, not as decoration, but as proof of discipline, of focus, and of the relentless pursuit of excellence, adding that those wings are not a reward, but symbolise responsibility. The golden wings represent the Navy’s faith in them, and are a sign that they are now a part of a rich naval legacy, he stated.&nbsp;Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar said Indian naval aviation has always stood for professionalism, precision, and pride. Whether it’s flying from the decks of the ships, or from the base to the shore, whether in support of operational missions, or participating in joint exercises with foreign navies or for search and rescue, or Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief, our aviation assets have made a commendable contribution in every mission or task, he said.&nbsp;The Indian Naval Air squadron 561(Helicopter Training School) is the alma mater of each and every helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. Upholding its mission statement ‘On Time, Every Time,’ the helicopter training school has trained 866 Pilots from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and friendly foreign nations over the past five decades and continues to provide helicopter flying training of the highest standards.

The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-piracy operations.

Eighteen Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali, near Chennai, on Monday, 9th June. Their Passing Out Parade marked the successful completion of their 22-week-long intensive flying and ground training at the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561, the largest helicopter squadron of the Indian Navy. Among those passing out and earning their ceremonial golden wings was Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey, the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy. The coveted ‘golden wings’ symbolises a naval pilot’s ultimate transition from training to frontline operational readiness.

The pilots who graduated from the Helicopter Training School will now be deployed at frontline units of the Indian Navy, undertaking vital roles in reconnaissance, surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-piracy operations.

Indian Navy gets its 2nd woman chopper pilot—Sub Lt Siddhi Dubey

French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India. The Indian Air Force has been operating 36 Rafale jets, and the Indian Navy has placed orders for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft carrier-based jets. This is a significant step in Indo-French defence cooperation.&nbsp;"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.&nbsp;Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section, the firms said.&nbsp;According to the firms, the first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY2028, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month. Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms.”&nbsp;With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft (including 2,700 Falcons) delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has expertise in the design, production, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems. Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, is a significant player for aerospace and defence solutions in India. TASL offers a full range of integrated solutions across: Aerostructures &amp; Aeroengines, Airborne Platforms &amp; Systems, Defence &amp; Security, and Land Mobility. Tata Advanced Systems has a strong portfolio of partnerships and joint ventures with leading global aerospace and defence firms, making it an integral partner in the international supply chain and in some instances, a global single-source provider for leading aerospace and defence Original Equipment Manufacturers(OEMs). &nbsp;

Rafale fighter jet bodies to be made in India; Roll out from 2028


French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India. The Indian Air Force has been operating 36 Rafale jets, and the Indian Navy has placed orders for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft carrier-based jets. This is a significant step in Indo-French defence cooperation. "For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation. Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section, the firms said. According to the firms, the first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY2028, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month. Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms.” With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft (including 2,700 Falcons) delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has expertise in the design, production, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems. Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, is a significant player for aerospace and defence solutions in India. TASL offers a full range of integrated solutions across: Aerostructures & Aeroengines, Airborne Platforms & Systems, Defence & Security, and Land Mobility. Tata Advanced Systems has a strong portfolio of partnerships and joint ventures with leading global aerospace and defence firms, making it an integral partner in the international supply chain and in some instances, a global single-source provider for leading aerospace and defence Original Equipment Manufacturers(OEMs).

French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India.&nbsp;

Rafale fighter jet bodies to be made in India; Roll out from 2028

On World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard announced that it led coastal cleanup efforts that led to the removal of more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year. These activities were carried out across the Indian coastline stretching over 11,000 km, which includes marine ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and nesting beaches, which serve as critical lifelines for biodiversity and coastal livelihoods.&nbsp; This year’s theme on world environment day, #BeatPlasticPollution, underscores the urgency of tackling marine contamination. Responding to this global call, the ICG, under flagship national campaigns such as Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar, Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, and Mission LiFE, has conducted over 58 major coastal clean-up operations, successfully removing more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year, ICG said. These initiatives actively engage youth, fishermen, and local communities, fostering collective responsibility for ocean health. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) also serves as the nation’s frontline defence against environmental disasters at sea, swiftly responding to oil spills, chemical hazards, and marine pollution incidents. Equipped with specialized Pollution Control Vessels—Samudra Prahari, Samudra Paheredar, and Samudra Pavak—the ICG deploys mitigation strategies to contain, recover, and neutralize pollutants before they cause irreversible ecological damage. In the last week of May, ICG helped tackle the oil and chemical spill situation off Kerala, in the aftermath of cargo ship MSC ELSA3's sinkage.&nbsp;Through the biannual National Pollution Response (NATPOLREX) exercises, the ICG fosters seamless inter-agency coordination, ensuring over 50 national stakeholders are prepared for large-scale pollution response efforts. By integrating environmental protection into its core maritime security framework, the ICG safeguards vital ocean ecosystems, preserves biodiversity, and reinforces India’s commitment to sustainable maritime governance. Beyond pollution mitigation, the Indian Coast Guard undertakes vital wildlife conservation missions to maintain ecological balance. Operation Olivia, in 2025, successfully safeguarded over 6.98 lakh nesting olive ridley turtles along Odisha’s coast, preventing entanglement in ghost nets and illegal fishing practices.&nbsp; In the Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands, ICG units conduct anti-poaching operations, combatting illicit trade of protected marine species such as sea cucumbers, corals, and giant clams. By strengthening surveillance and enforcement, these efforts ensure the preservation of fragile marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. "Every mission, every cleanup, and every act of protection embodies the Indian Coast Guard’s enduring commitment to defending not only the seas but the lives they sustain. As India commemorates World Environment Day 2025, the ICG urges citizens to take action reduce plastic consumption, participate in conservation efforts, and become stewards of the oceans. The health of our planet begins with the health of our seas," ICG urged the public .&nbsp; &nbsp;

On World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard announced that it led coastal cleanup efforts that led to the removal of more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year. 

On World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard announced that it led coastal cleanup efforts that led to the removal of more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year. These activities were carried out across the Indian coastline stretching over 11,000 km, which includes marine ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and nesting beaches, which serve as critical lifelines for biodiversity and coastal livelihoods. This year’s theme on world environment day, #BeatPlasticPollution, underscores the urgency of tackling marine contamination. Responding to this global call, the ICG, under flagship national campaigns such as Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar, Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, and Mission LiFE, has conducted over 58 major coastal clean-up operations, successfully removing more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year, ICG said. These initiatives actively engage youth, fishermen, and local communities, fostering collective responsibility for ocean health. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) also serves as the nation’s frontline defence against environmental disasters at sea, swiftly responding to oil spills, chemical hazards, and marine pollution incidents. Equipped with specialized Pollution Control Vessels—Samudra Prahari, Samudra Paheredar, and Samudra Pavak—the ICG deploys mitigation strategies to contain, recover, and neutralize pollutants before they cause irreversible ecological damage. In the last week of May, ICG helped tackle the oil and chemical spill situation off Kerala, in the aftermath of cargo ship MSC ELSA3's sinkage. Through the biannual National Pollution Response (NATPOLREX) exercises, the ICG fosters seamless inter-agency coordination, ensuring over 50 national stakeholders are prepared for large-scale pollution response efforts. By integrating environmental protection into its core maritime security framework, the ICG safeguards vital ocean ecosystems, preserves biodiversity, and reinforces India’s commitment to sustainable maritime governance. Beyond pollution mitigation, the Indian Coast Guard undertakes vital wildlife conservation missions to maintain ecological balance. Operation Olivia, in 2025, successfully safeguarded over 6.98 lakh nesting olive ridley turtles along Odisha’s coast, preventing entanglement in ghost nets and illegal fishing practices. In the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, ICG units conduct anti-poaching operations, combatting illicit trade of protected marine species such as sea cucumbers, corals, and giant clams. By strengthening surveillance and enforcement, these efforts ensure the preservation of fragile marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. "Every mission, every cleanup, and every act of protection embodies the Indian Coast Guard’s enduring commitment to defending not only the seas but the lives they sustain. As India commemorates World Environment Day 2025, the ICG urges citizens to take action reduce plastic consumption, participate in conservation efforts, and become stewards of the oceans. The health of our planet begins with the health of our seas," ICG urged the public .

On World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard announced that it led coastal cleanup efforts that led to the removal of more than 194 tonnes of plastic waste last year.&nbsp;

World Environment Day: Indian Coast Guard removed 194 tonnes plastic waste, protected lakhs of olive ridley turtles

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the Rs 300 crore (approx. $34 million) AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility of German firm Agile Robotics, near the southern Indian city of Chennai. The German firm describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. The facility near Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.&nbsp;“We are a German firm driving new industry solutions using AI and Robotics to create the next-gen solutions. Ours is a seven-year-old firm, founded by people from the German Aerospace Institute. We are going to invest heavily here and employ 300 people,” said Rory Sexton, a Board member of Agile Robots.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chief Minister also inaugurated an Air Separation facility of the Indo-Italian joint venture firm SOL India Private Ltd. at the Ranipet SIPCOT Industrial Park. The firm is involved in the manufacture of industrial and medical oxygen. During the Global Investors Meet hosted by Tamil Nadu, this firm had committed to a cumulative investment of Rs. 300 crore ($34 million). The factory has been set up in line with that commitment.&nbsp;Both inaugurations were done by the chief minister via virtual mode from the State Secretariat in Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, government officials, and representatives from the respective firms.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tamil Nadu is the second largest state economy in India and is a leading state in manufacturing and exports in various sectors.&nbsp;The Indian Economic Survey for 2024-25 has praised the Tamil Nadu government for its performance in attracting investments and creating a large number of jobs, especially for women. For 2024-25, Tamil Nadu is ranked first in India with an economic growth of 9.69% in 2024-25.

German firm Agile Robotics describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. Its AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility near the southern Indian city of Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the Rs 300 crore (approx. $34 million) AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility of German firm Agile Robotics, near the southern Indian city of Chennai. The German firm describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. The facility near Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians. “We are a German firm driving new industry solutions using AI and Robotics to create the next-gen solutions. Ours is a seven-year-old firm, founded by people from the German Aerospace Institute. We are going to invest heavily here and employ 300 people,” said Rory Sexton, a Board member of Agile Robots. The Chief Minister also inaugurated an Air Separation facility of the Indo-Italian joint venture firm SOL India Private Ltd. at the Ranipet SIPCOT Industrial Park. The firm is involved in the manufacture of industrial and medical oxygen. During the Global Investors Meet hosted by Tamil Nadu, this firm had committed to a cumulative investment of Rs. 300 crore ($34 million). The factory has been set up in line with that commitment. Both inaugurations were done by the chief minister via virtual mode from the State Secretariat in Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, government officials, and representatives from the respective firms. Tamil Nadu is the second largest state economy in India and is a leading state in manufacturing and exports in various sectors. The Indian Economic Survey for 2024-25 has praised the Tamil Nadu government for its performance in attracting investments and creating a large number of jobs, especially for women. For 2024-25, Tamil Nadu is ranked first in India with an economic growth of 9.69% in 2024-25.

German firm Agile Robotics describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. Its AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility near the southern Indian city of Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.

European firms invest $68mn in Tamil Nadu; CM Stalin inaugurates factories

If all goes per plan, Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission will lift off around 5:52 pm Indian time, Tuesday, 10th June, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida. However, the launch date is subject to changes in weather and other technical factors. Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they will stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments. The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule.&nbsp;This is the second postponement of this spaceflight. Originally scheduled to lift off on 29th May, the mission was pushed to 8th June and now 10th June. Postponements are quite common in human spaceflight missions, as there are many factors at play, including crew health, technical specifics, and weather. The first postponement was due to technical reasons, but the reason for the latest postponement has not been specified.&nbsp;Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.&nbsp;This mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance.&nbsp;Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian government has paid almost $64 million (Rs.550 crore) for Shukla’s training and spaceflight as part of the Axiom-4 mission.&nbsp;As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity.&nbsp;He will also be having a video interaction with students from India. “Our astronaut will be directly interacting with the student community... two such events we are planning across the country,” Sudeesh Balan, Project Director at ISRO, had told WION’s Sidharth M.P.&nbsp;Axiom-4 is a unique and exciting opportunity for ISRO in international cooperation and collaboration. The experience and know-how from this mission are significant for us and would feed into the Gaganyaan programme, which is India’s own mission to send our astronauts to space and return them safely. Missions like Axiom-4 would motivate young minds to be passionate about space technology, Balan added.

Postponements are quite common in human spaceflight missions, as there are many factors at play, including crew health, technical specifics, and weather. The first postponement was due to technical reasons, but the reason for the latest postponement has not been specified.

If all goes per plan, Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission will lift off around 5:52 pm Indian time, Tuesday, 10th June, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida. However, the launch date is subject to changes in weather and other technical factors. Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they will stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments. The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule. This is the second postponement of this spaceflight. Originally scheduled to lift off on 29th May, the mission was pushed to 8th June and now 10th June. Postponements are quite common in human spaceflight missions, as there are many factors at play, including crew health, technical specifics, and weather. The first postponement was due to technical reasons, but the reason for the latest postponement has not been specified. Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. This mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian government has paid almost $64 million (Rs.550 crore) for Shukla’s training and spaceflight as part of the Axiom-4 mission. As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity. He will also be having a video interaction with students from India. “Our astronaut will be directly interacting with the student community... two such events we are planning across the country,” Sudeesh Balan, Project Director at ISRO, had told WION’s Sidharth M.P. Axiom-4 is a unique and exciting opportunity for ISRO in international cooperation and collaboration. The experience and know-how from this mission are significant for us and would feed into the Gaganyaan programme, which is India’s own mission to send our astronauts to space and return them safely. Missions like Axiom-4 would motivate young minds to be passionate about space technology, Balan added.

Postponements are quite common in human spaceflight missions, as there are many factors at play, including crew health, technical specifics, and weather. The first postponement was due to technical reasons, but the reason for the latest postponement has not been specified.

Postponed for 2nd time - Indian astronaut Shukla to now fly into space on 10th June

After a 2-day search, mortal remains of a Tanzanian Naval cadet were found in Kochi backwaters&nbsp;After a two-day search operation involving the Indian Navy's diving teams and helicopter, the mortal remains of a drowned Tanzanian Naval cadet were recovered from the Kochi backwaters early Tuesday, June 3rd. The deceased trainee has been identified as Cadet Abdul Ibrahim Salehe. He had drowned in the Kochi backwaters on Sunday, June 1st.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-request-for-talks-came-from-pakistan-islamabad-aimed-to-bring-india-to-its-knees-in-48-hours-on-may-10-but-new-delhi-turned-the-tables-in-8-1748954570199">‘Request for talks came from Pakistan’: Islamabad aimed to bring 'India to its knees in 48 hours' on May 10, but New Delhi&nbsp;turned the tables&nbsp;in&nbsp;8</a>This incident is completely unrelated to his Naval training, as the cadet is said to have gone swimming in the backwaters, at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions are active in the region. The Officer cadet was on vacation in Kochi city, and was meant to return to his home country, during the ongoing one-month break.&nbsp;The required formalities to repatriate the mortal remains to Dar es Salam, Tanzania are being carried out. The Indian Navy offers its deepest condolences on the unfortunate demise of the international trainee, said a statement from the Defence Spokesperson Kochi.&nbsp;The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. It is said that the Tanzanian cadet had jumped into the backwaters and swam a few times and returned. Later, he again jumped in for a swim and went missing. The backwaters in Kochi are known for strong undercurrents.The cadet was a trainee at the Indian Naval Academy(INA), in Ezhimala, Kannur, about 300kms north of Kochi. The Indian Naval Academy, which is Asia's largest, offers ab initio training for the Officer cadets of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. As part of India's Military Diplomacy, cadets from friendly foreign nations are also trained at the INA.

This incident is completely unrelated to his Naval training, as the cadet is said to have gone swimming in the backwaters, at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions are active in the region.

After a 2-day search, mortal remains of a Tanzanian Naval cadet were found in Kochi backwaters After a two-day search operation involving the Indian Navy's diving teams and helicopter, the mortal remains of a drowned Tanzanian Naval cadet were recovered from the Kochi backwaters early Tuesday, June 3rd. The deceased trainee has been identified as Cadet Abdul Ibrahim Salehe. He had drowned in the Kochi backwaters on Sunday, June 1st. Also read: ‘Request for talks came from Pakistan’: Islamabad aimed to bring 'India to its knees in 48 hours' on May 10, but New Delhi turned the tables in 8 This incident is completely unrelated to his Naval training, as the cadet is said to have gone swimming in the backwaters, at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions are active in the region. The Officer cadet was on vacation in Kochi city, and was meant to return to his home country, during the ongoing one-month break. The required formalities to repatriate the mortal remains to Dar es Salam, Tanzania are being carried out. The Indian Navy offers its deepest condolences on the unfortunate demise of the international trainee, said a statement from the Defence Spokesperson Kochi. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. It is said that the Tanzanian cadet had jumped into the backwaters and swam a few times and returned. Later, he again jumped in for a swim and went missing. The backwaters in Kochi are known for strong undercurrents. The cadet was a trainee at the Indian Naval Academy(INA), in Ezhimala, Kannur, about 300kms north of Kochi. The Indian Naval Academy, which is Asia's largest, offers ab initio training for the Officer cadets of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. As part of India's Military Diplomacy, cadets from friendly foreign nations are also trained at the INA.

This incident is completely unrelated to his Naval training, as the cadet is said to have gone swimming in the backwaters, at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions are active in the region.

Body of Tanzanian naval cadet recovered from Kochi backwaters

A 22-year-old Tanzanian naval cadet is suspected to have drowned in the Kochi backwaters in southern India's Kerala on Sunday (Jun 1) evening. This incident was completely unrelated to his naval training and happened as the cadet reportedly went for a swim in the backwaters at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions were active in the region. The officer cadet, during his one-month break, was holidaying in Kochi city and was supposed to return to his home country afterwards. Naval diving teams have launched a thorough search and rescue operation.The incident took place around 5:30 pm, Sunday. It is said that the Tanzanian cadet had jumped into the backwaters, swum a few times and returned. Later, he again jumped in for a swim but went missing. The backwaters in Kochi are known for strong undercurrents.The cadet was a trainee at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kannur, about 300 km north of Kochi. The Indian Naval Academy, which is Asia's largest, offers ab initio training for the officer cadets of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. As part of India's military diplomacy, cadets from friendly foreign nations are also trained at the INA."An incident of accidental fall of an international trainee in the Ernakulam channel was reported at 1730hrs on 1st Jun 2025. The international trainee was undergoing training at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala. During the preliminary investigation, it has been ascertained that the trainee was on leave at Kochi en route to his country. A thorough search and Rescupe Ops has been launched in the area by Naval diving teams," read a statement from the Defence Spokesperson, Kochi . &nbsp;

 The officer cadet, during his one-month break, was holidaying in Kochi city and was supposed to return to his home country afterwards. Naval diving teams have launched a thorough search and rescue operation.

A 22-year-old Tanzanian naval cadet is suspected to have drowned in the Kochi backwaters in southern India's Kerala on Sunday (Jun 1) evening. This incident was completely unrelated to his naval training and happened as the cadet reportedly went for a swim in the backwaters at a time when the southwest monsoon conditions were active in the region. The officer cadet, during his one-month break, was holidaying in Kochi city and was supposed to return to his home country afterwards. Naval diving teams have launched a thorough search and rescue operation. The incident took place around 5:30 pm, Sunday. It is said that the Tanzanian cadet had jumped into the backwaters, swum a few times and returned. Later, he again jumped in for a swim but went missing. The backwaters in Kochi are known for strong undercurrents. The cadet was a trainee at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kannur, about 300 km north of Kochi. The Indian Naval Academy, which is Asia's largest, offers ab initio training for the officer cadets of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. As part of India's military diplomacy, cadets from friendly foreign nations are also trained at the INA. "An incident of accidental fall of an international trainee in the Ernakulam channel was reported at 1730hrs on 1st Jun 2025. The international trainee was undergoing training at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala. During the preliminary investigation, it has been ascertained that the trainee was on leave at Kochi en route to his country. A thorough search and Rescupe Ops has been launched in the area by Naval diving teams," read a statement from the Defence Spokesperson, Kochi .

&nbsp;The officer cadet, during his one-month break, was holidaying in Kochi city and was supposed to return to his home country afterwards. Naval diving teams have launched a thorough search and rescue operation.

Tanzanian Naval cadet drowns in Kochi backwaters; search ops underway

When a rocket launch mission by the Indian Space Agency (ISRO) is in progress, for journalists at the spaceport and those watching the live stream, only one voice matters - that of Ganesan Grahadurai.&nbsp;As the Range Operations Director at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, he monitors multiple parameters during a launch and makes all-important announcements or "callouts" regarding the performance of each rocket stage and the overall progress of the mission. After having served ISRO for over 38 years, Grahadurai is stepping down on 30th May 2025.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">During an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> rocket launch, these are the golden words that every scientist, every engineer, every technician, every <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> enthusiast wants to hear...all in the inimitable voice &amp; style of Graha Durai sir, Range Ops Director at India&#39;s spaceport <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/vMki3PAMJO">pic.twitter.com/vMki3PAMJO</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1680431469393747968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

With his iconic voice and unique pronunciation, when Range Operations Director G. Grahadurai announces, "First stage performance normaalll... Second stage performance normaalll... Third stage performance normaalll... Satellite injection conditions are achieved... Satellite injected," it is a sign of relief and joy for the ISRO leadership at the Mission Control Centre, as well as the Indian space enthusiasts watching the live stream. However, these announcements are only a minor part of the Range Operations Director's role.&nbsp;The Range Operations Director is responsible for coordinating between the rocket team, satellite team, and spaceport team, providing technical and logistical support. It involves taking part in supervising the health checks of the rocket, satellite, tracking systems, radars, etc. Finalising the countdown timing for every mission is also a crucial role of the Range Operations Director.&nbsp;About the love and adulation that he receives from the space enthusiast fraternity, Grahadurai says, I have to thank God and my parents for my voice. "As the Range Operations Director, my role is to announce the events clearly to the public. In that process, due to emotional attachment and complete involvement towards every mission, my voice has a unique, soulful feel and tone," he suggests.&nbsp;Grahadurai's voice and announcements have also become quite the viral phenomenon on social media and among the space enthusiast community. Even at home, Grahadurai has admirers who try and mimic him. "Not only my grandchildren, but many friends, relatives and the public have fun by mimicking my announcements and voice," he says laughingly.&nbsp;Hailing from Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu, the city known for firecrackers, Grahadurai's life journey took him to the Indian spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, where he has contributed to 96 of India's 101 rocket launches, in various functional designations. Since January 2020, in his role as Range Operations Director, he has made announcements for 24 of ISRO's 101 rocket launches, which is a record in itself.An Electronics and Communications Engineer by qualification, Grahadurai's notable work includes developing ISRO's Mission Control Centre, the upcoming Gaganyaan Control Facilities for the Human Spaceflight programme, and Range Operations infrastructure at the upcoming spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;"Indeed, I will miss the roles and responsibilities of being the Range Operations Director, and the announcements during a launch mission. I am very emotionally attached to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and particularly the Range Operations Director role," he told WION's&nbsp; Sidharth M.P. on his last working day at the spaceport.To his admirers and well-wishers, he says, "In future, the Range Operations Director's desk will get a voice better than mine, which will continue to mesmerise all of us."&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ganesan Grahadurai, Range Operations Director at ISRO and the iconic voice behind the ISRO launches, retires after serving for 38 years.

When a rocket launch mission by the Indian Space Agency (ISRO) is in progress, for journalists at the spaceport and those watching the live stream, only one voice matters - that of Ganesan Grahadurai. As the Range Operations Director at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, he monitors multiple parameters during a launch and makes all-important announcements or "callouts" regarding the performance of each rocket stage and the overall progress of the mission. After having served ISRO for over 38 years, Grahadurai is stepping down on 30th May 2025.

Ganesan Grahadurai, Range Operations Director at ISRO and the iconic voice behind the ISRO launches, retires after serving for 38 years.

Voice of ISRO launches Ganesan Grahadurai retires after 38 years

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Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Sidharth MP

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