National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Wednesday expressed confidence that the United States and India would come together “at the end of the day” and said that the relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains cordial but termed the trade negotiations as complicated. He also said that Washington was expecting a breakthrough by May or June, but India has taken a slower approach to finalising an agreement. He, however, said that New Delhi’s stance in the negotiations was&nbsp;“performative”.&nbsp;As US President Donald Trump’s unilateral 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods came into effect on Wednesday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Fox Business, “The Indians came in early after Liberation Day to start negotiating on tariffs, and we still don’t have a deal. I thought we would have a deal by May or June. I thought India could be our earlier deals and they tapped us along in terms of negotiations.”“There’s also that aspect of Russian crude purchases which they have been profiteering on,” he said.&nbsp;Highlighting the bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump, Bessent said, “This is a very complicated relationship. PM Modi and Trump have a very good relationship at that level... I do think India is the world’s largest democracy and the US is the world’s largest economy. I think at the end of the day we will come together.”Bessent reiterated that the US has a big trade deficit with India and said New Delhi charged “very high” tariffs on American goods.“The US is the deficit country. When there is a schism in trade relations, the deficit country is at an advantage. It’s the surplus country that should worry. So, the Indians are selling to us. They have very high tariffs and we have a very large deficit with them,” Bessent added.&nbsp;WATCH: India-China trade ties: How US pressure is reshaping India's trade map<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-trade-ties-how-us-pressure-is-reshaping-india-s-trade-map-1756299546720/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-trade-ties-how-us-pressure-is-reshaping-india-s-trade-map-1756299546720/embed</a>&nbsp;Despite the differences on tariff issues, both governments have underlined that the broader bilateral relationship is not confined to trade alone. Strategic, defence, technology, and investment ties continue to expand, reflecting the depth and resilience of the partnership.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian government has reiterated its firm position on protecting sensitive sectors and said agricultural and dairy products remain red lines for it, as policymakers have been stressing that domestic interests in these areas cannot be compromised in any trade negotiation.

Despite the disagreement on tariff issues, the US and Indian governments have underlined that the broader bilateral relationship is not confined to trade alone. Strategic, defence, technology, and investment ties continue to expand, reflecting the depth and resilience of partnership.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Wednesday expressed confidence that the United States and India would come together “at the end of the day” and said that the relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains cordial but termed the trade negotiations as complicated. He also said that Washington was expecting a breakthrough by May or June, but India has taken a slower approach to finalising an agreement. He, however, said that New Delhi’s stance in the negotiations was “performative”. As US President Donald Trump’s unilateral 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods came into effect on Wednesday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Fox Business, “The Indians came in early after Liberation Day to start negotiating on tariffs, and we still don’t have a deal. I thought we would have a deal by May or June. I thought India could be our earlier deals and they tapped us along in terms of negotiations.” “There’s also that aspect of Russian crude purchases which they have been profiteering on,” he said. Highlighting the bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump, Bessent said, “This is a very complicated relationship. PM Modi and Trump have a very good relationship at that level... I do think India is the world’s largest democracy and the US is the world’s largest economy. I think at the end of the day we will come together.” Bessent reiterated that the US has a big trade deficit with India and said New Delhi charged “very high” tariffs on American goods. “The US is the deficit country. When there is a schism in trade relations, the deficit country is at an advantage. It’s the surplus country that should worry. So, the Indians are selling to us. They have very high tariffs and we have a very large deficit with them,” Bessent added. WATCH: India-China trade ties: How US pressure is reshaping India's trade map https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-trade-ties-how-us-pressure-is-reshaping-india-s-trade-map-1756299546720/embed Despite the differences on tariff issues, both governments have underlined that the broader bilateral relationship is not confined to trade alone. Strategic, defence, technology, and investment ties continue to expand, reflecting the depth and resilience of the partnership. Meanwhile, the Indian government has reiterated its firm position on protecting sensitive sectors and said agricultural and dairy products remain red lines for it, as policymakers have been stressing that domestic interests in these areas cannot be compromised in any trade negotiation.

Despite the disagreement on tariff issues, the US and Indian governments have underlined that the broader bilateral relationship is not confined to trade alone. Strategic, defence, technology, and investment ties continue to expand, reflecting the depth and resilience of partnership.&nbsp;

‘We’ll come together with India,’ says US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as Trump’s 50% tariffs kick in

&nbsp;Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (Aug 27) alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi halted the military actions against terror camps in Pakistan on US President Donald Trump’s directions, backing Trump’s claims. Gandhi made the remarks at a poll rally in Muzaffarpur as part of the ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’. This comes hours after the US president once again claimed that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after a four-day military conflict in May.Addressing the rally, the Congress leader said, “Trump said today that when the war between India and Pakistan was going on, I picked up the phone and told Narendra Modi and told him to stop whatever he was doing within 24 hours. And Narendra Modi stopped everything in five hours, not 24 hours.”<h2>What did Trump claim?</h2>During a cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday (Aug 26), the US president claimed that he had spoken with Modi, recounting the telephonic conversation between the two leaders.“I am talking to a very terrific man, Modi of India. I said, ‘What’s going on with you and Pakistan?’ Then I spoke to Pakistan about trade. I said, ‘What’s going on with you and India?’” he said.He further made a factually wrong statement, “This has been going on for a hell of a long time, sometimes under different names for hundreds of years.” India and Pakistan both became independent in 1947, marking the end of nearly 200 years of British colonial rule. Prior to that, they had been one country.Trump also claimed that he stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan from “going nuclear”. He alleged that he threatened to impose tariffs and stop trade deals if they did not agree to a truce.Trump claimed he forced Islamabad to step back amid the military escalation. “I said, ‘what’s going on?’ I said, ‘I don’t want to make a trade deal….’ I said, ‘no, no, I don’t want to make a trade deal with you. You are going to have a nuclear war. You guys are going to end up in a nuclear war’. And that was very important to them. I said, ‘call me back tomorrow, but we are not going to do any deals with you, or we are going to put tariffs on you that are so high. I don’t give a damn. Your head’s going to spin. You are not going to end up in a war’. Within about five hours, it was done. Now, maybe it starts again, I don’t know. I don’t think so. But I will stop it if it does. We can’t let these things happen,” the US president said.<h2>What has India said?</h2>Meanwhile, India has consistently maintained that the understanding of a ceasefire with Pakistan was reached following direct talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGsMO) of the two militaries and no third party was involved.&nbsp;

During a cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday (Aug 26), the US president claimed that he had spoken with Modi, recounting the telephonic conversation between the two leaders.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (Aug 27) alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi halted the military actions against terror camps in Pakistan on US President Donald Trump’s directions, backing Trump’s claims. Gandhi made the remarks at a poll rally in Muzaffarpur as part of the ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’. This comes hours after the US president once again claimed that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after a four-day military conflict in May. Addressing the rally, the Congress leader said, “Trump said today that when the war between India and Pakistan was going on, I picked up the phone and told Narendra Modi and told him to stop whatever he was doing within 24 hours. And Narendra Modi stopped everything in five hours, not 24 hours.” What did Trump claim? During a cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday (Aug 26), the US president claimed that he had spoken with Modi, recounting the telephonic conversation between the two leaders. “I am talking to a very terrific man, Modi of India. I said, ‘What’s going on with you and Pakistan?’ Then I spoke to Pakistan about trade. I said, ‘What’s going on with you and India?’” he said. He further made a factually wrong statement, “This has been going on for a hell of a long time, sometimes under different names for hundreds of years.” India and Pakistan both became independent in 1947, marking the end of nearly 200 years of British colonial rule. Prior to that, they had been one country. Trump also claimed that he stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan from “going nuclear”. He alleged that he threatened to impose tariffs and stop trade deals if they did not agree to a truce. Trump claimed he forced Islamabad to step back amid the military escalation. “I said, ‘what’s going on?’ I said, ‘I don’t want to make a trade deal….’ I said, ‘no, no, I don’t want to make a trade deal with you. You are going to have a nuclear war. You guys are going to end up in a nuclear war’. And that was very important to them. I said, ‘call me back tomorrow, but we are not going to do any deals with you, or we are going to put tariffs on you that are so high. I don’t give a damn. Your head’s going to spin. You are not going to end up in a war’. Within about five hours, it was done. Now, maybe it starts again, I don’t know. I don’t think so. But I will stop it if it does. We can’t let these things happen,” the US president said. What has India said? Meanwhile, India has consistently maintained that the understanding of a ceasefire with Pakistan was reached following direct talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGsMO) of the two militaries and no third party was involved.

During a cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday (Aug 26), the US president claimed that he had spoken with Modi, recounting the telephonic conversation between the two leaders.

‘PM Modi stopped everything in five hours’: Rahul Gandhi backs Trump’s claim of brokering India-Pak ceasefire

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced the closure of all the schools and colleges across the Union Territory on August 28th for the second consecutive day due to inclement weather. Over 30 people had died in the Jammu division while they were en route to the Vaishnov Devi shrine.&nbsp;Chief Minister Omar Abdullah questioned on Wednesday why were the pilgrims allowed to move ahead if there were warnings by the weather authorities. “If we already knew about the weather, couldn’t we do something to ensure that those innocent lives were saved? Why were they on the track? Why weren’t they taken to a safe place? We are sad that around 29-30 people have lost their lives in Katra. There has been major damage in the low-lying areas like Samba, Kathua, Jammu, Udhampur, Doda,” said Abdullah.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, took stock of the situation and spoke to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. LG has directed the officials for restoration of power, communication, water supply on priority in areas where floodwater is receding. More than 5000 people were evacuated from low-lying flooded areas to safety. The Army, NDRF and SDRF are working in coordination with the Divisional Commissioner’s office and are ensuring that there is an adequate supply of relief materials and all possible assistance is being given to those affected.&nbsp;The Indian Army has been continuously carrying out relief and rescue operations across Jammu and Kashmir. “Floods in Jammu forced approximately 100 civilians, including children, to take shelter in Kandoli Mata Mandir, Nagrota. Troops of White Knight Corps swung into action and provisioned food, medical assistance to those in need, and safety and security to all. Always ready in the service of the Nation,” said White Knight Corps of the Indian Army.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Met Department has predicted improvement in the weather conditions from Thursday although rain has been forecast. “Generally cloudy with intermittent spells of drizzle/light rain/thundershower over Ganderbal, Baramulla, Bandipora, middle &amp; higher reaches of Anantnag, Kulgam &amp; Pulwama, Parts of Ramban, Doda,Kishtwar, few parts of Reasi, Udh &amp; Samba during next 3 hrs,” said MeT Srinagar.&nbsp;&nbsp;The advisory further added that there is a possibility of landslides/mudslides/shooting stones at a few vulnerable places. People have been advised to stay away from water bodies/river embankments/nallas/streams/ loose structures.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha took stock of the situation and spoke to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. LG has directed the officials for restoration of power, communication, water supply on priority in areas where floodwater is receding.

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced the closure of all the schools and colleges across the Union Territory on August 28th for the second consecutive day due to inclement weather. Over 30 people had died in the Jammu division while they were en route to the Vaishnov Devi shrine. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah questioned on Wednesday why were the pilgrims allowed to move ahead if there were warnings by the weather authorities. “If we already knew about the weather, couldn’t we do something to ensure that those innocent lives were saved? Why were they on the track? Why weren’t they taken to a safe place? We are sad that around 29-30 people have lost their lives in Katra. There has been major damage in the low-lying areas like Samba, Kathua, Jammu, Udhampur, Doda,” said Abdullah. Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, took stock of the situation and spoke to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. LG has directed the officials for restoration of power, communication, water supply on priority in areas where floodwater is receding. More than 5000 people were evacuated from low-lying flooded areas to safety. The Army, NDRF and SDRF are working in coordination with the Divisional Commissioner’s office and are ensuring that there is an adequate supply of relief materials and all possible assistance is being given to those affected. The Indian Army has been continuously carrying out relief and rescue operations across Jammu and Kashmir. “Floods in Jammu forced approximately 100 civilians, including children, to take shelter in Kandoli Mata Mandir, Nagrota. Troops of White Knight Corps swung into action and provisioned food, medical assistance to those in need, and safety and security to all. Always ready in the service of the Nation,” said White Knight Corps of the Indian Army. The Met Department has predicted improvement in the weather conditions from Thursday although rain has been forecast. “Generally cloudy with intermittent spells of drizzle/light rain/thundershower over Ganderbal, Baramulla, Bandipora, middle & higher reaches of Anantnag, Kulgam & Pulwama, Parts of Ramban, Doda,Kishtwar, few parts of Reasi, Udh & Samba during next 3 hrs,” said MeT Srinagar. The advisory further added that there is a possibility of landslides/mudslides/shooting stones at a few vulnerable places. People have been advised to stay away from water bodies/river embankments/nallas/streams/ loose structures.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha took stock of the situation and spoke to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu. LG has directed the officials for restoration of power, communication, water supply on priority in areas where floodwater is receding.

CM Omar, LG take stock of situation in flood-hit areas; schools, colleges closed for second consecutive day

In a dramatic turn in the Noida dowry death case, the family of Nikki Bhati is facing allegations from their estranged daughter-in-law, who has accused them of similar harassment over dowry. This comes after the death of Nikki Bhati, who lost her life in New Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Aug 21 after severe burn injuries. Her in-laws have been accused of setting her on fire over a dowry demand.Meenakshi, the estranged wife of her brother Rohit Payla, has alleged that she faced physical assault over dowry demands from her in-laws, the officials said on Wednesday (Aug 27). Meenakshi, 31, who got married to Rohit in 2016, claimed that her family gave a Maruti Suzuki Ciaz to the Payla family as dowry.In an FIR filed in 2024, Meenakshi claimed that she was beaten up by her father-in-law, mother-in-law, and even Nikki and her sister Kanchan. She also accused Rohit of assaulting her and firing a shot at her brother, according to India Today. She also claimed that she was forced to undergo two abortions.According to News18, a settlement was reached after the filing of the FIR that Rohit’s family will pay Rs 35 lakh to Meenakshi’s family, and in exchange, Meenakshi’s family will withdraw the case. However, the amount was already spent at the time of the wedding, and Rohit’s family did not return the money. Allegedly, the torture continued, after which Meenakshi’s brother went to take her back. When he went there, he was allegedly thrashed and his vehicle was vandalised.<h2>What did Nikki Bhati’s father say?</h2>Responding to the allegations, Nikki Bhati’s father, Bhikhari Singh Payla told NDTV, “That issue is different, this issue is different. Don't connect it with that. See, how many issues come up. That case is in court. The court will do what it wants. Don't connect it with that.”“There will be allegations. I am telling you. I have a bad throat. And this matter is different. That matter is different. If someone's daughter, your daughter, gets burnt and if she is linked to another case, that cannot be,” he added.He further said, “My son never raised his hand on her (daughter-in-law). Does it ever happen that a family comes to drop their daughter (his daughter-in-law) off at home and attack her family? I have all the evidence. Our doors are always open for her (daughter-in-law).”In a recent development, conflicting claims emerged in the case. Kanchan had claimed that Vipin set Nikki on fire with the help of his mother-in-law, Daya. She also said that the seven-year-old was screaming and crying when his mother was set on fire. However, the CCTV video shows the child and the husband outside the house when Nikki was allegedly burnt.Kanchan claimed that Nikki was assaulted in front of her, adding that she was severely burned when she regained consciousness, and the accused in-laws had fled the scene.

Meenakshi, the estranged wife of her brother Rohit Payla, has claimed that she was beaten up by her father-in-law, mother-in-law, and even Nikki and her sister Kanchan over dowry demands.

In a dramatic turn in the Noida dowry death case, the family of Nikki Bhati is facing allegations from their estranged daughter-in-law, who has accused them of similar harassment over dowry. This comes after the death of Nikki Bhati, who lost her life in New Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Aug 21 after severe burn injuries. Her in-laws have been accused of setting her on fire over a dowry demand. Meenakshi, the estranged wife of her brother Rohit Payla, has alleged that she faced physical assault over dowry demands from her in-laws, the officials said on Wednesday (Aug 27). Meenakshi, 31, who got married to Rohit in 2016, claimed that her family gave a Maruti Suzuki Ciaz to the Payla family as dowry. In an FIR filed in 2024, Meenakshi claimed that she was beaten up by her father-in-law, mother-in-law, and even Nikki and her sister Kanchan. She also accused Rohit of assaulting her and firing a shot at her brother, according to India Today. She also claimed that she was forced to undergo two abortions. According to News18, a settlement was reached after the filing of the FIR that Rohit’s family will pay Rs 35 lakh to Meenakshi’s family, and in exchange, Meenakshi’s family will withdraw the case. However, the amount was already spent at the time of the wedding, and Rohit’s family did not return the money. Allegedly, the torture continued, after which Meenakshi’s brother went to take her back. When he went there, he was allegedly thrashed and his vehicle was vandalised. What did Nikki Bhati’s father say? Responding to the allegations, Nikki Bhati’s father, Bhikhari Singh Payla told NDTV, “That issue is different, this issue is different. Don't connect it with that. See, how many issues come up. That case is in court. The court will do what it wants. Don't connect it with that.” “There will be allegations. I am telling you. I have a bad throat. And this matter is different. That matter is different. If someone's daughter, your daughter, gets burnt and if she is linked to another case, that cannot be,” he added. He further said, “My son never raised his hand on her (daughter-in-law). Does it ever happen that a family comes to drop their daughter (his daughter-in-law) off at home and attack her family? I have all the evidence. Our doors are always open for her (daughter-in-law).” In a recent development, conflicting claims emerged in the case. Kanchan had claimed that Vipin set Nikki on fire with the help of his mother-in-law, Daya. She also said that the seven-year-old was screaming and crying when his mother was set on fire. However, the CCTV video shows the child and the husband outside the house when Nikki was allegedly burnt. Kanchan claimed that Nikki was assaulted in front of her, adding that she was severely burned when she regained consciousness, and the accused in-laws had fled the scene.

Meenakshi, the estranged wife of her brother Rohit Payla, has claimed that she was beaten up by her father-in-law, mother-in-law, and even Nikki and her sister Kanchan over dowry demands.

‘My son never raised his hand’: Nikki Bhati’s father on allegations of dowry torture by estranged daughter-in-law

On Tuesday (August 26), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh spoke about Operation Sindoor and said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) could continue striking Pakistani bases, but did not, as the target was achieved. The day after the operation, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had lauded the IAF for their grit and valour as they struck the terror infrastructure in 22 minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Talking about the intervening night of May 9 and 10, he said, “That night, we were on a song. We could have continued to strike, but that was not our aim. Our objective was already achieved. It is very easy to say that. But why should you prolong a war which can be stopped after having achieved your objective. I think that is what is required."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/rajnath-singh-praises-indian-navy-s-swift-action-in-operation-sindoor-1756233844376">Rajnath Singh Praises Indian Navy's Swift Action in Operation Sindoor</a>&nbsp;"We can't shy away from the fact that air power today has to be used offensively. It has to be used to get to a decision point. And whether it is a war of today or tomorrow, the relevance of air power will continue to grow. We need to look at leveraging technology to improve in our air and space domain," he added.&nbsp;Air Chief Marshal Singh highlighted that technology played a vital role in the country's success. India launched Operation Sindoor after seeing Pakistan's inaction against the terrorist outfits operating on its soil. This response by New Delhi was triggered after the dastardly attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam claimed 26 innocent lives. Right after the attack, The Resistant Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. Days after the attack Pakistan's Defence Minister was also seen speaking to news outlet SkyNews, where he accepted the country's link to a terrorist organisation in the past. He had further accepted that they were doing the dirty job for the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about Operation Sindoor, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said the forces were on song that night as the targets were achieved.  He said, “Why should you prolong a war which can be stopped after having achieved your objective.”

On Tuesday (August 26), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh spoke about Operation Sindoor and said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) could continue striking Pakistani bases, but did not, as the target was achieved. The day after the operation, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had lauded the IAF for their grit and valour as they struck the terror infrastructure in 22 minutes. Talking about the intervening night of May 9 and 10, he said, “That night, we were on a song. We could have continued to strike, but that was not our aim. Our objective was already achieved. It is very easy to say that. But why should you prolong a war which can be stopped after having achieved your objective. I think that is what is required." Also read: Rajnath Singh Praises Indian Navy's Swift Action in Operation Sindoor "We can't shy away from the fact that air power today has to be used offensively. It has to be used to get to a decision point. And whether it is a war of today or tomorrow, the relevance of air power will continue to grow. We need to look at leveraging technology to improve in our air and space domain," he added. Air Chief Marshal Singh highlighted that technology played a vital role in the country's success. India launched Operation Sindoor after seeing Pakistan's inaction against the terrorist outfits operating on its soil. This response by New Delhi was triggered after the dastardly attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam claimed 26 innocent lives. Right after the attack, The Resistant Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. Days after the attack Pakistan's Defence Minister was also seen speaking to news outlet SkyNews, where he accepted the country's link to a terrorist organisation in the past. He had further accepted that they were doing the dirty job for the US.

Talking about Operation Sindoor, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said the forces were on song that night as the targets were achieved. &nbsp;He said, “Why should you prolong a war which can be stopped after having achieved your objective.”

'Could continue to strike Pakistan, but wasn't our aim': Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Operation Sindoor

Indian space tech firms Bengaluru-based Pixxel and Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space have placed a total of four satellites in space via a commercial launch contract with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, the world leader in rocketry. In simple terms, the Indian firms paid for slots on America’s Falcon 9 rocket, which ferried them to space, more like a ride share to space.&nbsp;The launch of these four Indian-origin satellites, among others, was carried out by SpaceX shortly after midnight hour Indian time, Wednesday, 27th August.<h2>What type of satellites did the Indian firms launch?</h2>&nbsp;According to Dhruva Space, their LEAP-1 satellite marks the company’s first commercial mission, featuring advanced AI and hyperspectral payloads from Australia-based Akula Tech and Esper Satellites. These payloads have been hosted on Dhruva’s indigenously developed P-30 satellite structure.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Pixxel, they launched three Firefly hyperspectral Earth-imaging satellites on this SpaceX mission. Pixxel already has three Firefly satellites in space and with this latest launch, their fleet has grown to six.&nbsp;In simple terms, hyperspectral Earth-imaging captures pictures of our home planet using sensors that collect information far beyond what can be seen by human eyes or conventional cameras. Instead of the standard Red, Green, Blue, hyperspectral imaging captures hundreds of colours (wavelengths). This high amount of detail can help identify plants, minerals, water quality, etc. This data can be used to determine crop health, mapping cities, spotting oil spills etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Why did Indian firms choose Musk’s SpaceX instead of India’s ISRO?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;While the firms themselves haven’t revealed why they chose to pay and fly SpaceX, it is widely acknowledged that cost, reliability, launch frequency, rocket availability, and other commercial reasons are stacked up in SpaceX’s favour. SpaceX is a global leader in the space launch business and has completed 134 launches of various kinds in 2024. At the time of writing, SpaceX has launched its workhorse Falcon 9 more than 100 times in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;In comparison, ISRO has been performing five to seven launches in recent years. Therefore, a customer (Indian or foreigner) who wishes to fly his satellite to space would prefer to fly at the next available rocket, than to wait for an ISRO rocket. Notably, ISRO has not flown a single commercial mission it 2025. While ISRO did announce that it would launch American private firm’s BlueBird satellite this year, that launch has been pushed to January-March 2026, as per ISRO Chief Dr. V. Narayanan.While, ISRO did launch the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite in July, that was a scientific collaboration and not a business venture. NASA and ISRO bore the costs of their respective part of the NISAR mission.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>In the era of SpaceX, Indian rockets are not cost-competitive</h2>&nbsp;It is claimed that Indian rockets and space missions are cheaper than Hollywood films. However, these direct numerical comparisons are neither scientific nor rooted in reality. In the world of commercial rocketry, the real metric is cost-per-kilogramme to orbit. In simple terms, per-kg cost on larger rockets is cheaper than per-kg cost on smaller rockets. This is broadly similar to why a train ticket costs far lesser than undertaking the same journey via car. The larger the rocket, the more it can carry, therefore the per-kg cost reduces.&nbsp;While ISRO’'s commercial arm NSIL does not officially reveal its per-kg cost, it is well established in the market that ISRO’s rockets are not cost competitive in a world dominated by Elon Musk’'s SpaceX. Industry estimates have clearly shown that the per-kg cost on SpaceX’s massive Falcon-series of re-usable rockets are less than half of the per-kg cost charged by India. Naturally, satellite firms would choose the cheaper option offered by SpaceX.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>ISRO’s workhorse PSLV rocket failed in 2025, but we still don’t know why</h2>&nbsp;In May 2025, ISRO launched the PSLV-C61 rocket carrying an advanced Indian Earth-imaging satellite EOS-09. In a rare occurrence, ISRO's workhorse PSLV rocket failed mid-flight, which led to the loss of rocket and the satellite.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a taxpayer-funded space agency, ISRO has had the culture of publicly releasing its Failure Analysis Committee(FAC) reports following mission failures. When the strategic satellite GISAT-1 failed in the year 2021, ISRO had publicly released an FAC report.&nbsp;However, ISRO has not made the PSLV-C61 FAC report public. Space industry veterans say that the FAC reports not being publicly shared affects the image of the space agency, as several foreign entities entrust ISRO to launch their satellites and expect a high level of accountability and transparency from the launching agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>ISRO’s sluggish rate of launches and related concerns&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;In the eight months of 2025, ISRO has done only three launches from home soil. The only complete successful outcome in these three was the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite that was launched in July.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last year, the Indian government announced that there would be a total of 30 space launches from India in 15 months (between January 2024 and March 2025). In the said 15 months, only 7 launches were executed. This means that only 23% of the launch target is being met.&nbsp;This affects Indi’'s reputation in the highly-competitive and lucrative launch market.&nbsp;&nbsp;While India has executed three space launches in the eight months of 2025, US has executed 120 launches, China has executed 49, and Russia has executed 11. While India’s launch activity cannot directly be compared with that of global space powers, it must be noted that India’s launch pace is sluggish by even its own standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Simply put, global commercial space launch industry is quite like the airline industry- the ones that operate more flights get more bookings from customers, the ones that barely/rarely fly don’t get bookings. Therefore, only those who launch rockets frequently can attract customers.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a recent video message during India's National Space Day on 23rd August, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged that there are barely five or six rocket launches from Indian soil in a year. He expressed his wish that the Indian private sector must come forward, develop capability to launch fifty rockets in a year by the year 2030. The Prime Minister, who directly oversees the Department of Space (ISRO’s parent body), envisioned that there must be a launch every week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently acknowledged that there are barely five or six rocket launches from India in a year and expressed the wish that the Indian private sector come forward and develop the capability to launch fifty rockets in a year by the year 2030.

Indian space tech firms Bengaluru-based Pixxel and Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space have placed a total of four satellites in space via a commercial launch contract with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, the world leader in rocketry. In simple terms, the Indian firms paid for slots on America’s Falcon 9 rocket, which ferried them to space, more like a ride share to space. The launch of these four Indian-origin satellites, among others, was carried out by SpaceX shortly after midnight hour Indian time, Wednesday, 27th August. What type of satellites did the Indian firms launch? According to Dhruva Space, their LEAP-1 satellite marks the company’s first commercial mission, featuring advanced AI and hyperspectral payloads from Australia-based Akula Tech and Esper Satellites. These payloads have been hosted on Dhruva’s indigenously developed P-30 satellite structure. According to Pixxel, they launched three Firefly hyperspectral Earth-imaging satellites on this SpaceX mission. Pixxel already has three Firefly satellites in space and with this latest launch, their fleet has grown to six. In simple terms, hyperspectral Earth-imaging captures pictures of our home planet using sensors that collect information far beyond what can be seen by human eyes or conventional cameras. Instead of the standard Red, Green, Blue, hyperspectral imaging captures hundreds of colours (wavelengths). This high amount of detail can help identify plants, minerals, water quality, etc. This data can be used to determine crop health, mapping cities, spotting oil spills etc. Why did Indian firms choose Musk’s SpaceX instead of India’s ISRO? While the firms themselves haven’t revealed why they chose to pay and fly SpaceX, it is widely acknowledged that cost, reliability, launch frequency, rocket availability, and other commercial reasons are stacked up in SpaceX’s favour. SpaceX is a global leader in the space launch business and has completed 134 launches of various kinds in 2024. At the time of writing, SpaceX has launched its workhorse Falcon 9 more than 100 times in 2025. In comparison, ISRO has been performing five to seven launches in recent years. Therefore, a customer (Indian or foreigner) who wishes to fly his satellite to space would prefer to fly at the next available rocket, than to wait for an ISRO rocket. Notably, ISRO has not flown a single commercial mission it 2025. While ISRO did announce that it would launch American private firm’s BlueBird satellite this year, that launch has been pushed to January-March 2026, as per ISRO Chief Dr. V. Narayanan. While, ISRO did launch the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite in July, that was a scientific collaboration and not a business venture. NASA and ISRO bore the costs of their respective part of the NISAR mission. In the era of SpaceX, Indian rockets are not cost-competitive It is claimed that Indian rockets and space missions are cheaper than Hollywood films. However, these direct numerical comparisons are neither scientific nor rooted in reality. In the world of commercial rocketry, the real metric is cost-per-kilogramme to orbit. In simple terms, per-kg cost on larger rockets is cheaper than per-kg cost on smaller rockets. This is broadly similar to why a train ticket costs far lesser than undertaking the same journey via car. The larger the rocket, the more it can carry, therefore the per-kg cost reduces. While ISRO’'s commercial arm NSIL does not officially reveal its per-kg cost, it is well established in the market that ISRO’s rockets are not cost competitive in a world dominated by Elon Musk’'s SpaceX. Industry estimates have clearly shown that the per-kg cost on SpaceX’s massive Falcon-series of re-usable rockets are less than half of the per-kg cost charged by India. Naturally, satellite firms would choose the cheaper option offered by SpaceX. ISRO’s workhorse PSLV rocket failed in 2025, but we still don’t know why In May 2025, ISRO launched the PSLV-C61 rocket carrying an advanced Indian Earth-imaging satellite EOS-09. In a rare occurrence, ISRO's workhorse PSLV rocket failed mid-flight, which led to the loss of rocket and the satellite. As a taxpayer-funded space agency, ISRO has had the culture of publicly releasing its Failure Analysis Committee(FAC) reports following mission failures. When the strategic satellite GISAT-1 failed in the year 2021, ISRO had publicly released an FAC report. However, ISRO has not made the PSLV-C61 FAC report public. Space industry veterans say that the FAC reports not being publicly shared affects the image of the space agency, as several foreign entities entrust ISRO to launch their satellites and expect a high level of accountability and transparency from the launching agency. ISRO’s sluggish rate of launches and related concerns In the eight months of 2025, ISRO has done only three launches from home soil. The only complete successful outcome in these three was the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite that was launched in July. Last year, the Indian government announced that there would be a total of 30 space launches from India in 15 months (between January 2024 and March 2025). In the said 15 months, only 7 launches were executed. This means that only 23% of the launch target is being met. This affects Indi’'s reputation in the highly-competitive and lucrative launch market. While India has executed three space launches in the eight months of 2025, US has executed 120 launches, China has executed 49, and Russia has executed 11. While India’s launch activity cannot directly be compared with that of global space powers, it must be noted that India’s launch pace is sluggish by even its own standards. Simply put, global commercial space launch industry is quite like the airline industry- the ones that operate more flights get more bookings from customers, the ones that barely/rarely fly don’t get bookings. Therefore, only those who launch rockets frequently can attract customers. In a recent video message during India's National Space Day on 23rd August, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged that there are barely five or six rocket launches from Indian soil in a year. He expressed his wish that the Indian private sector must come forward, develop capability to launch fifty rockets in a year by the year 2030. The Prime Minister, who directly oversees the Department of Space (ISRO’s parent body), envisioned that there must be a launch every week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently acknowledged that there are barely five or six rocket launches from India in a year and expressed the wish that the Indian private sector come forward and develop the capability to launch fifty rockets in a year by the year 2030.

Why are Indian firms picking, paying SpaceX over ISRO to launch satellites?

India on Wednesday (August 27) voiced strong concerns over the killing of journalists in Gaza, after an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis left more than 20 people dead, including members of the media. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the incident as “deeply regrettable” and conveyed shock at the loss of lives. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs underlined that journalists, by virtue of their role in reporting from the frontlines, must never be targeted or caught in the crossfire. “The killing of media professionals strikes at the very foundation of press freedom and the public’s right to information,” the ministry said, reiterating India’s consistent call for safeguarding civilians during armed conflicts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-dead-several-feared-trapped-as-apartment-building-in-mumbai-s-virar-collapses-during-party-rescue-ops-underway-1756269513194">3 dead, several feared trapped as apartment building in Mumbai's Virar collapses during party; Rescue ops underway</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our response to media queries regarding loss of lives of journalists in Khan Younis, Gaza 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/he8LS9Kw35">https://t.co/he8LS9Kw35</a> <a href="https://t.co/HT3s7gAkMw">pic.twitter.com/HT3s7gAkMw</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1960548725530460490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The attack has drawn global criticism, with Israel maintaining that the strike was unintended and vowing to conduct a thorough investigation. Officials in Tel Aviv called the incident a “tragic mishap,” stressing that military operations were directed against militant threats and not towards journalists or medical personnel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-says-ready-and-willing-to-work-with-uk-reform-party-s-farage-and-accept-deported-afghans-1756284570187">Taliban says 'ready and willing' to work with UK Reform Party's Farage and accept deported Afghans</a>&nbsp;New Delhi, while taking note of Israel’s assurance of an inquiry, stressed upon the importance of accountability and urged that such tragedies must not recur. The statement added that civilian casualties, particularly of those performing essential duties such as journalism and healthcare, cannot be justified under any circumstance. India’s response aligns with its broader diplomatic stance of balancing ties with Israel while voicing support for the protection of human life in conflict zones. By condemning the incident, New Delhi also reinforced its position that freedom of the press is integral, even in times of war.

India voices concern over journalists killed in Gaza hospital attack

India on Wednesday (August 27) voiced strong concerns over the killing of journalists in Gaza, after an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis left more than 20 people dead, including members of the media. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the incident as “deeply regrettable” and conveyed shock at the loss of lives. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs underlined that journalists, by virtue of their role in reporting from the frontlines, must never be targeted or caught in the crossfire. “The killing of media professionals strikes at the very foundation of press freedom and the public’s right to information,” the ministry said, reiterating India’s consistent call for safeguarding civilians during armed conflicts. Also Read: 3 dead, several feared trapped as apartment building in Mumbai's Virar collapses during party; Rescue ops underway

&nbsp;A total of five journalists were killed when a missile hit a hospital in Gaza. The journalists were working for Reuters, Al Jazeera and the Associated Press among other media publications

Days after 26-year-old Nikki Bhati was set ablaze allegedly by her husband and husband's family over dowry in Greater Noida, another case of dowry-linked violence surfaced in the Amroha district of Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred in Narangpur village of the district, where the 32-year-old victim, identified as Parul, a trained nurse, sustained severe burn injuries and was quickly rushed to Delhi in critical condition.&nbsp;In response, police have registered a case against six members of a family, including the husband of the woman who is also serving as a constable in the Uttar Pradesh Police. Her husband, identified as Devendra, had recently been transferred from Rampur to Bareilly and was at home on leave during the tragedy.<h3>Case filed under domestic violence</h3>According to a report by NDTV, police said that the constable and his relatives allegedly attempted to set Parul ablaze after demands for dowry were not met. In response, Parul's brother has filed a complaint against them, accusing her husband Devendra, his mother, and four other relatives identified as Sonu, Gajesh, Jitendra and Santosh.&nbsp;Police said that a case has been registered under serious charges of domestic violence and attempted murder. "All six accused are currently missing. A search operation is underway," said the police.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/noida-dowry-death-nikki-bhati-allegedly-killed-over-disagreements-over-instagram-reels-reopening-of-parlour-new-details-emerge-1756091851519">Noida dowry death: Nikki Bhati allegedly killed over disagreements over Instagram reels? New details emerge</a>&nbsp;The mother of the victim, Anita, stated that she was informed about the incident by neighbours early on Tuesday. "When I reached the spot, my daughter was writhing in pain, badly burnt," she said. "She was taken to the nearest hospital but had to be referred to Delhi due to her condition. She is fighting for her life," Anita added.&nbsp;Anita confirmed that her daughter married Devendra around 13 years ago. And the couple has twin children now, a girl and a boy.&nbsp;The case comes after several days of the killing of Nikki Bhati in Greater Noida over the dowry issue. She was allegedly burnt alive by her husband, Vipin and in-laws after their dowry demands were not fulfilled. Nikki has been married to the Bhati family since 2016.

Following the incident, police have registered a case against six members of a family, including the husband of the woman who is also serving as a constable in the Uttar Pradesh Police.

Days after 26-year-old Nikki Bhati was set ablaze allegedly by her husband and husband's family over dowry in Greater Noida, another case of dowry-linked violence surfaced in the Amroha district of Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred in Narangpur village of the district, where the 32-year-old victim, identified as Parul, a trained nurse, sustained severe burn injuries and was quickly rushed to Delhi in critical condition. In response, police have registered a case against six members of a family, including the husband of the woman who is also serving as a constable in the Uttar Pradesh Police. Her husband, identified as Devendra, had recently been transferred from Rampur to Bareilly and was at home on leave during the tragedy. Case filed under domestic violence According to a report by NDTV, police said that the constable and his relatives allegedly attempted to set Parul ablaze after demands for dowry were not met. In response, Parul's brother has filed a complaint against them, accusing her husband Devendra, his mother, and four other relatives identified as Sonu, Gajesh, Jitendra and Santosh. Police said that a case has been registered under serious charges of domestic violence and attempted murder. "All six accused are currently missing. A search operation is underway," said the police. Also read: Noida dowry death: Nikki Bhati allegedly killed over disagreements over Instagram reels? New details emerge The mother of the victim, Anita, stated that she was informed about the incident by neighbours early on Tuesday. "When I reached the spot, my daughter was writhing in pain, badly burnt," she said. "She was taken to the nearest hospital but had to be referred to Delhi due to her condition. She is fighting for her life," Anita added. Anita confirmed that her daughter married Devendra around 13 years ago. And the couple has twin children now, a girl and a boy. The case comes after several days of the killing of Nikki Bhati in Greater Noida over the dowry issue. She was allegedly burnt alive by her husband, Vipin and in-laws after their dowry demands were not fulfilled. Nikki has been married to the Bhati family since 2016.

Following the incident, police have registered a case against six members of a family, including the husband of the woman who is also serving as a constable in the Uttar Pradesh Police.

Days after Noida case, another woman in Uttar Pradesh burnt alive by husband over dowry

At least three people lost their lives, and several were feared trapped under the debris after a section of a four-storey residential building, Mumbai's Ramabai Apartment in Virar East, partially collapsed late on Tuesday night, according to a report in Dainik Bhaskar. Meanwhile, different reports suggest that 2 people have died, but there is no confirmation from the official end.&nbsp;The incident took place around 11:30 pm when the fourth floor of the building crashed down during a birthday party. Following the incident, a team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the fire brigade of the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation rushed to the spot, launching search-and-rescue operations. In order to find all the trapped people, officials have also deployed a specialised dog squad.<h3>How many people have been rescued?</h3>Amid the rescue operations, NDRF Deputy Commander Pramod Singh told news agency ANI, “Two teams of the NDRF responded to the accident site. One team is from Mumbai and one is from Palghar. As soon as the information was received at 12 am, the nearest team responded. In the primary manual and canine search, four people were pulled out. Among them, one was dead, and three were rescued alive. A one-year-old child died on the way to the hospital. 11 people have been rescued so far. The locals say that around 5 people may still be trapped... The rescue may continue today and tomorrow. All the work has to be done manually as the way to the building is narrow and heavy machinery cannot be brought here.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Palghar, Maharashtra | On the rescue operations after a building collapses in Virar, NDRF Deputy Commander Pramod Singh says, &quot;Two teams of the NDRF responded to the accident site. One team is from Mumbai and one is from Palghar. As soon as the information was received… <a href="https://t.co/3gwlzNL3yg">https://t.co/3gwlzNL3yg</a> <a href="https://t.co/8iA3leESZh">pic.twitter.com/8iA3leESZh</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1960557554570015138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Officials involved in the rescue effort have also evacuated the other parts of the building to prevent further casualties, but the extent of the damage is still being assessed.&nbsp;The official confirmed that the building was constructed ten years ago, and has already received a notice from the municipal corporation for a structural audit. After the collapse, the apartment complex was evacuated as soon as possible.&nbsp;(More details are awaited.)

A team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the fire brigade of the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation rushed to the spot, launching search-and-rescue operations as soon as they were notified of the incident.

At least three people lost their lives, and several were feared trapped under the debris after a section of a four-storey residential building, Mumbai's Ramabai Apartment in Virar East, partially collapsed late on Tuesday night, according to a report in Dainik Bhaskar. Meanwhile, different reports suggest that 2 people have died, but there is no confirmation from the official end. The incident took place around 11:30 pm when the fourth floor of the building crashed down during a birthday party. Following the incident, a team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the fire brigade of the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation rushed to the spot, launching search-and-rescue operations. In order to find all the trapped people, officials have also deployed a specialised dog squad. How many people have been rescued? Amid the rescue operations, NDRF Deputy Commander Pramod Singh told news agency ANI, “Two teams of the NDRF responded to the accident site. One team is from Mumbai and one is from Palghar. As soon as the information was received at 12 am, the nearest team responded. In the primary manual and canine search, four people were pulled out. Among them, one was dead, and three were rescued alive. A one-year-old child died on the way to the hospital. 11 people have been rescued so far. The locals say that around 5 people may still be trapped... The rescue may continue today and tomorrow. All the work has to be done manually as the way to the building is narrow and heavy machinery cannot be brought here.”

A team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the fire brigade of the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation rushed to the spot, launching search-and-rescue operations as soon as they were notified of the incident.

3 dead, several feared trapped as apartment building in Mumbai's Virar collapses during party; Rescue ops underway

Incessant rain across Jammu and Kashmir has unleashed floods, landslides, and travel chaos, with at least 30 people killed after a massive landslide struck near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra on Tuesday. In view if the "prevailing weather conditions and "in the interest of pubic safety", Ramesh Kumar, the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu's Divisional Disaster Management Authority has ordered that all educational institutions remain closed on Wednesday (Aug 27).<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250827/image-1756264282398.jpg"></figure><h2>30 dead in Vaishno Devi landslide</h2>The biggest tragedy struck near the Adhkwari cave temple on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route, where a landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya killed at least 30 devotees, Reasi SSP Paramvir Singh confirmed. Rescue operations are underway.Union Home Minister Amit Shah on X, called the incident “extremely tragic” and said NDRF teams had been deployed. "In this regard, I have spoken with the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah ji, and the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha ji. The local administration is engaged in relief and rescue operations to assist the injured, and the NDRF team is also reaching there," he wrote.<h2>Pathankot on alert</h2>Continuous downpours in Jammu and Kashmir, as per reports, have pushed water levels dangerously high in Punjab's Pathankot district, leading to flooding and waterlogging. "Due to continuous rains in Jammu and Kashmir, the water level in Pathankot has increased," additional Deputy Commissioner Hardeep Singh stated. He also said that authorities have converted the Radha Swami Satsang Beas premises into an evacuation centre, with food and shelter arrangements in place, officials said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-closed-in-jammu-punjab-amid-heavy-rainfall-imd-issues-alert-for-these-states-1756217267610">Schools closed in Jammu, Punjab amid heavy rainfall – IMD issues alert</a><h2>IMD issues alert for J&amp;K</h2>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday morning warned of widespread thunderstorms, heavy rain, and possible hail across Jammu and adjoining areas. Its early-morning radar imagery, at 5:10 am, showed severe convection with heavy rain, thunderstorms, and possible hail over Jammu, RS Pura, Samba, Akhnoor, Nagrota, Kot Bhalwal, Bishnah, Vijaypur, Purmandal, and parts of Kathua and Udhampur, reported ANI.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-omar-abdullah-briefs-amit-shah-on-j-k-situation-army-crpf-join-rescue-ops-after-vaishno-devi-landslide-1756219429356">CM Omar Abdullah briefs Amit Shah on J&amp;K situation; Army, CRPF join rescue ops</a><h2>Tourists stranded, trains cancelled</h2>Torrential rain and landslides have cut off key routes, leaving tourists stranded. Officials aid that eighteen trains were cancelled after flash floods eroded soil around the Chakki River, halting movement between Pathankot Cantt and Kandrori. Train services were also suspended on the Jammu Tawi–Katra and Jammu Tawi–Bari Brahman lines.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-vaishno-devi-landslide-death-toll-hits-30-as-heavy-rains-continue-1756263559502/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-vaishno-devi-landslide-death-toll-hits-30-as-heavy-rains-continue-1756263559502/embed</a> &nbsp;

Incessant rains and landslides have wreaked havoc in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to widespread floods and travel disruption. The situation is particularly dire near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, where a massive landslide has killed at least 30 people. 

Incessant rain across Jammu and Kashmir has unleashed floods, landslides, and travel chaos, with at least 30 people killed after a massive landslide struck near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra on Tuesday. In view if the "prevailing weather conditions and "in the interest of pubic safety", Ramesh Kumar, the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu's Divisional Disaster Management Authority has ordered that all educational institutions remain closed on Wednesday (Aug 27). 30 dead in Vaishno Devi landslide The biggest tragedy struck near the Adhkwari cave temple on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route, where a landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya killed at least 30 devotees, Reasi SSP Paramvir Singh confirmed. Rescue operations are underway. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on X, called the incident “extremely tragic” and said NDRF teams had been deployed. "In this regard, I have spoken with the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah ji, and the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha ji. The local administration is engaged in relief and rescue operations to assist the injured, and the NDRF team is also reaching there," he wrote. Pathankot on alert Continuous downpours in Jammu and Kashmir, as per reports, have pushed water levels dangerously high in Punjab's Pathankot district, leading to flooding and waterlogging. "Due to continuous rains in Jammu and Kashmir, the water level in Pathankot has increased," additional Deputy Commissioner Hardeep Singh stated. He also said that authorities have converted the Radha Swami Satsang Beas premises into an evacuation centre, with food and shelter arrangements in place, officials said. Also read | Schools closed in Jammu, Punjab amid heavy rainfall – IMD issues alert IMD issues alert for J&K The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday morning warned of widespread thunderstorms, heavy rain, and possible hail across Jammu and adjoining areas. Its early-morning radar imagery, at 5:10 am, showed severe convection with heavy rain, thunderstorms, and possible hail over Jammu, RS Pura, Samba, Akhnoor, Nagrota, Kot Bhalwal, Bishnah, Vijaypur, Purmandal, and parts of Kathua and Udhampur, reported ANI. Also read | CM Omar Abdullah briefs Amit Shah on J&K situation; Army, CRPF join rescue ops Tourists stranded, trains cancelled Torrential rain and landslides have cut off key routes, leaving tourists stranded. Officials aid that eighteen trains were cancelled after flash floods eroded soil around the Chakki River, halting movement between Pathankot Cantt and Kandrori. Train services were also suspended on the Jammu Tawi–Katra and Jammu Tawi–Bari Brahman lines. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-vaishno-devi-landslide-death-toll-hits-30-as-heavy-rains-continue-1756263559502/embed

Incessant rains and landslides have wreaked havoc in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to widespread floods and travel disruption. The situation is particularly dire near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, where a massive landslide has killed at least 30 people.&nbsp;

Jammu & Kashmir floods: 30 killed in massive landslide near Vaishno Devi shrine; schools to remain shut today

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday spoke about the idea of a “Hindu Rashtra”, and referred to “common DNA going back thousands of years” in a subtle linking at an event in New Delhi to mark the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh. Bhagwat said “Hindu Rashtra (nation)” is a concept that has no link to “satta” (political power) and “does not mean excluding anyone”.In his lecture at the event titled ‘100 Years Journey of RSS: New Horizons’ at Vigyan Bhawan, Bhagwat defined “Hindu” as an identity centred around geography and traditions. He said some people “know but do not acknowledge themselves as Hindus” while others “do not know it”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Our DNA is samel... Living in harmony our culture’</h2>&nbsp;Bhagwat said devotion to “Bharat Mata” and common traditions are the key factors for identity: “Our DNA is the same as well... Living in harmony is our culture.”“Justice is the same for everyone. ‘Hindu Rashtra’ does not mean excluding anyone. It does not mean opposing anyone… Diversity does not cause disunity. That unity comes from uniformity is not the case. Unity is also in diversity,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: At the event to mark 100 years of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Sarsanghchalak of the organisation, Mohan Bhagwat says, &quot;The RSS is completing 100 years of its journey... The essence of RSS lies in the last line of our prayer, which we recite every day, &#39;Bharat… <a href="https://t.co/Wr6JgsdG2D">pic.twitter.com/Wr6JgsdG2D</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1960322688024457657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Since ancient times, Indians considered everyone and the world to be bound together by the same divinity and the term ‘Hindu’ was used by outsiders for people living in region of “Akhand Bharat” or undivided India, or the South Asian subcontinent, he added.“Hindu means one who walks on his own path and does not block the path of others. Those who believe that everyone can follow their way and yet reach the same destination are Hindus,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Essence of RSS lies in the…’</h2>&nbsp;Bhagwat said the essence of RSS lies in the concluding line of its daily prayer, Bharat Mata ki Jai.He said the organisation’s century-long journey has always been dedicated to Bharat, with its purpose and significance rooted in making India a vishwaguru (world teacher).“It is the objective of the RSS to make Bharat a “vishwaguru” (a guide for the world) and the time for it has come,” he said.&nbsp;WATCH: Indian navy gets two state-of-the-art stealth frigates in its fleet&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-gets-two-state-of-the-art-stealth-frigates-in-its-fleet-1756232978784/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-gets-two-state-of-the-art-stealth-frigates-in-its-fleet-1756232978784/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Narendra Modi and his government also use the term “vishwaguru” to stress India’s place in the world.&nbsp;He also stressed the need for a transformation for India’s rise. “It will not happen by leaving the job to someone. Everybody will have a role to play,” he said.The event was attended by yoga guru Ramdev, JDU leader KC Tyagi, Bollywood actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, and Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia and Anupriya Patel.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed the need for a transformation for India’s rise and emphasised that it will not happen by itself or by leaving the job to someone else, but everyone will have to play a role to realise the dream.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday spoke about the idea of a “Hindu Rashtra”, and referred to “common DNA going back thousands of years” in a subtle linking at an event in New Delhi to mark the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh. Bhagwat said “Hindu Rashtra (nation)” is a concept that has no link to “satta” (political power) and “does not mean excluding anyone”. In his lecture at the event titled ‘100 Years Journey of RSS: New Horizons’ at Vigyan Bhawan, Bhagwat defined “Hindu” as an identity centred around geography and traditions. He said some people “know but do not acknowledge themselves as Hindus” while others “do not know it”. ‘Our DNA is samel... Living in harmony our culture’ Bhagwat said devotion to “Bharat Mata” and common traditions are the key factors for identity: “Our DNA is the same as well... Living in harmony is our culture.” “Justice is the same for everyone. ‘Hindu Rashtra’ does not mean excluding anyone. It does not mean opposing anyone… Diversity does not cause disunity. That unity comes from uniformity is not the case. Unity is also in diversity,” he added.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed the need for a transformation for India’s rise and emphasised that it will not happen by itself or by leaving the job to someone else, but everyone will have to play a role to realise the dream.

‘Hindu Rashtra does not mean excluding anyone,’ says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

With Ganesh Chaturthi to be celebrated tomorrow (Aug 27), Mumbai is all set to welcome Bappa with some fashion. From the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja to the dazzling Khetwadi cha Raja, explore five must-visit Ganesh pandals that showcase the city's festive spirit and devotion.

Explore Mumbai’s most famous Ganesh pandals this Ganesh Chaturthi 2025

Over the last few days, torrential rains have caused a ruckus across India, with intense rainfall causing deadly landslides, flash floods and widespread damage across northern states. On Tuesday (August 26), a massive landslide near Adhkwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine route in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district left five people dead and multiple people injured. In total, nine rain-related deaths were reported in the region. Authorities have stopped the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage until further notice due to ongoing safety concerns.<h2>Schools Closed in Jammu and Punjab</h2>Keeping in mind the weather conditions, the governments of Punjab and Jammu &amp; Kashmir have ordered that schools will be closed as a safety precaution. Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took it to X and wrote, “It has been raining heavily for the past few days, and the Meteorological Department is predicting heavy rain for the next few days, in view of which all primary, secondary, senior secondary, government, and private schools in the state will be closed from August 27 to August 30.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaishno-devi-yatra-suspended-amid-heavy-downpour-in-jammu-1756203087982">9 killed in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, landslide</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ਪਿਛਲੇ ਦਿਨਾਂ ਤੋਂ ਭਾਰੀ ਮੀਂਹ ਪੈ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ ਅਤੇ ਮੌਸਮ ਵਿਭਾਗ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਅੱਗੇ ਵੀ ਕੁੱਝ ਦਿਨ ਭਾਰੀ ਮੀਂਹ ਪੈਣ ਦਾ ਅਨੁਮਾਨ ਲਗਾਇਆ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ, ਜਿਸਨੂੰ ਦੇਖਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਸੂਬੇ ਦੇ ਸਾਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਇਮਰੀ, ਸੈਕੰਡਰੀ, ਸੀਨੀਅਰ ਸੈਕੰਡਰੀ ਸਰਕਾਰੀ ਤੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਈਵੇਟ ਸਕੂਲ 27 ਅਗਸਤ ਤੋਂ 30 ਅਗਸਤ ਤੱਕ ਬੰਦ ਰਹਿਣਗੇ। ---- पिछले दिनों से भारी बारिश हो रही…&mdash; Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann/status/1960306872881479707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Several districts in Punjab, including Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Bathinda, are facing flood-like conditions with waterlogging and rising river levels. In Jammu Division, all government and private schools will remain shut on Wednesday (August 27), as per an official order from the Directorate of School Education.<h2>Red Alert Issued in Delhi</h2>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red nowcast alert for parts of Delhi and adjoining areas in Haryana. According to IMD, intense convection is being observed over West Delhi, South Delhi, Northwest Delhi, and adjoining districts. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and to avoid waterlogged areas.<h2>Himachal Pradesh: Roads Blocked, Power Cut</h2>In Himachal Pradesh, continuous rain has led to landslides, flash floods, and the closure of over 130 roads, especially in Kullu, Shimla, and Mandi regions. Power supply has been disrupted in over 2,300 areas. The state government has closed schools in affected districts, and an orange alert remains in place.<h2>Uttarakhand Schools Shut Amid Orange Alert</h2>Uttarakhand has also issued an orange alert, prompting the closing of schools in Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Nainital, and Chamoli. Rescue operations are underway in several remote areas with help from the National Disaster Response Force and the State Disaster Response Force.<h2>Yellow Alert in Mumbai</h2>Mumbai is likely to witness another downpour in the next few days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall in different parts of the city on Wednesday (August 27), followed by moderate showers on August 28. On August 29, isolated areas could again experience intense downpours. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has placed emergency teams on alert, while residents, especially those living in low-lying and coastal areas, have been urged to remain cautious.<h2>Nationwide Monsoon Alert</h2>From Odisha to Gujarat, heavy rain, floods, and landslides have caused damage and disruption. In Odisha, villages remain submerged in Balasore and Jajpur. Gujarat has warned fishermen against venturing out due to rough sea conditions. The IMD has urged people across multiple states to stay alert for flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, as the monsoon&nbsp;remains intense across India.

Heavy rainfall continues to disrupt normal life across northern India. Schools in Jammu and Punjab have been ordered shut till August 30. The IMD has issued weather alerts in multiple states. 

Over the last few days, torrential rains have caused a ruckus across India, with intense rainfall causing deadly landslides, flash floods and widespread damage across northern states. On Tuesday (August 26), a massive landslide near Adhkwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine route in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district left five people dead and multiple people injured. In total, nine rain-related deaths were reported in the region. Authorities have stopped the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage until further notice due to ongoing safety concerns. Schools Closed in Jammu and Punjab Keeping in mind the weather conditions, the governments of Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir have ordered that schools will be closed as a safety precaution. Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took it to X and wrote, “It has been raining heavily for the past few days, and the Meteorological Department is predicting heavy rain for the next few days, in view of which all primary, secondary, senior secondary, government, and private schools in the state will be closed from August 27 to August 30.” Also read | 9 killed in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, landslide

Heavy rainfall continues to disrupt normal life across northern India. Schools in Jammu and Punjab have been ordered shut till August 30. The IMD has issued weather alerts in multiple states.&nbsp;

Schools closed in Jammu, Punjab amid heavy rainfall – IMD issues alert for THESE states

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Japan later this week, his renewed call for economic self‑reliance through the ‘swadeshi’ movement and ‘vocal for local’ campaigns gains greater resonance. He has urged Indian shopkeepers to display boards announcing “yahan swadeshi maal bikta hai” (locally made goods are sold here) to counter looming tariff threats from US President Donald Trump. Japan’s system of ‘Made in Japan' or ‘nihonsei’ labelling offers a subtle yet effective model for raising consumer awareness about locally made goods without heavy‑handed directives.<h2>What is ‘nihonsei’ labelling in Japan?</h2>Nihonsei is the Japanese term for “made in Japan,” combining nihon (Japan) and sei (made or manufactured). The term refers to products made in Japanese factories using Japanese materials and craftsmanship. Such labelling signals a commitment to quality and attention to detail, values often associated with Japanese cultural standards.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-s-swadeshi-push-before-trump-s-additional-tariff-kicks-in-how-indian-pm-reacted-to-us-tariff-war-so-fa-1756173760722">PM Modi's 'swadeshi' push before Trump's additional tariff kicks in: Indian PM's three big statements on US tariff war</a><h2>Modi’s remarks on the ‘swadeshi’ campaign</h2>In his Independence Day address this year, Modi urged shopkeepers to publicly declare their support for Indian goods by putting up “swadeshi maal bikta hai” boards. He emphasised that swadeshi should not be adopted out of compulsion but as a source of strength. He positioned self‑reliance as both a civic duty and a marker of national pride. Japan's approach is not much different.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-modi-not-pick-up-four-calls-from-trump-german-newspaper-report-claims-1756198908072">Did Modi not pick up four calls from Trump? German newspaper makes this claim amid US tariff threat and Russia oil trade punishment</a><h2>How Japan implements ‘nihonsei’ or ‘Made in Japan’ labelling</h2>Japanese law requires all products to indicate their country of origin. The phrase “Made in Japan” appears in regulated small print on packaging. The practice is effective not through prominence on its own, but through supportive retail strategies such as clear shelf tags, regional branding (for example, “Aomori apples” or “Hokkaido crab”), and designated aisles for imported goods. This approach distinguishes domestic products subtly without denigrating foreign ones.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-tariff-clash-pm-modi-says-india-will-not-yield-to-us-tariffs-1756188882906/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-tariff-clash-pm-modi-says-india-will-not-yield-to-us-tariffs-1756188882906/embed</a><h2>Why the Japanese model is effective</h2>The system works because it is grounded in clear regulations and laws, with consistent enforcement of product origin labelling. Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) implements the Food Labeling Act and Japan Agricultural Standards (JAS). The Japanese model aligns with consumer trust, particularly among older shoppers - known as ‘silver market’- who associate nihonsei with quality and safety. Retail environments reinforce this by celebrating regional produce through visible in‑store signage and promotions, cultivating a sense of pride and influencing purchasing behaviour.<h2>Lessons for India from subtle product labelling strategies</h2>India can adapt principles from Japan’s model to promote Swadeshi through dignity and visibility rather than restrictions or bans. Encouraging voluntary “made in India” signage could foster national pride among consumers and merchants alike. When origin becomes a mark of identity rather than a mandate, self‑reliance may become ingrained in consumer choice.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-one-rocket-every-week-50-per-year-pm-modi-aims-big-for-self-reliant-india-1755950057902">'One rocket every week, 50 per year': PM Modi aims big for 'self-reliant' India</a><h2>Swadeshi, then and now</h2>India’s historical Swadeshi movement began as a boycott of British goods in the early 1900s. Today’s ‘vocal for local’ initiative reframes that legacy into a modern push for competitive, high‑quality Indian goods. Compared to Japan’s quiet yet culturally embedded emphasis on local origin, India’s swadeshi push could benefit from similar subtlety and strategic branding.Modi’s swadeshi campaign, through visible public declarations by shopkeepers, echoes Japan’s nihonsei labelling system. By combining regulatory clarity with cultural affirmation, India could elevate domestic products in a way that feels empowering rather than coercive.&nbsp;Japan offers India a clear lesson: Self‑reliance can be built on transparency, trust, and national pride. &nbsp;

As Indian PM Modi visits Japan, his ‘Swadeshi’ push finds a parallel in Japan’s “Nihonsei” labelling, which subtly promotes local goods through clear origin tags and retail practices. India could adopt this model to build consumer trust and national pride without enforcing trade restrictions.

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Japan later this week, his renewed call for economic self‑reliance through the ‘swadeshi’ movement and ‘vocal for local’ campaigns gains greater resonance. He has urged Indian shopkeepers to display boards announcing “yahan swadeshi maal bikta hai” (locally made goods are sold here) to counter looming tariff threats from US President Donald Trump. Japan’s system of ‘Made in Japan' or ‘nihonsei’ labelling offers a subtle yet effective model for raising consumer awareness about locally made goods without heavy‑handed directives. What is ‘nihonsei’ labelling in Japan? Nihonsei is the Japanese term for “made in Japan,” combining nihon (Japan) and sei (made or manufactured). The term refers to products made in Japanese factories using Japanese materials and craftsmanship. Such labelling signals a commitment to quality and attention to detail, values often associated with Japanese cultural standards. Also read: PM Modi's 'swadeshi' push before Trump's additional tariff kicks in: Indian PM's three big statements on US tariff war Modi’s remarks on the ‘swadeshi’ campaign In his Independence Day address this year, Modi urged shopkeepers to publicly declare their support for Indian goods by putting up “swadeshi maal bikta hai” boards. He emphasised that swadeshi should not be adopted out of compulsion but as a source of strength. He positioned self‑reliance as both a civic duty and a marker of national pride. Japan's approach is not much different. Also read: Did Modi not pick up four calls from Trump? German newspaper makes this claim amid US tariff threat and Russia oil trade punishment How Japan implements ‘nihonsei’ or ‘Made in Japan’ labelling Japanese law requires all products to indicate their country of origin. The phrase “Made in Japan” appears in regulated small print on packaging. The practice is effective not through prominence on its own, but through supportive retail strategies such as clear shelf tags, regional branding (for example, “Aomori apples” or “Hokkaido crab”), and designated aisles for imported goods. This approach distinguishes domestic products subtly without denigrating foreign ones. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-tariff-clash-pm-modi-says-india-will-not-yield-to-us-tariffs-1756188882906/embed Why the Japanese model is effective The system works because it is grounded in clear regulations and laws, with consistent enforcement of product origin labelling. Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) implements the Food Labeling Act and Japan Agricultural Standards (JAS). The Japanese model aligns with consumer trust, particularly among older shoppers - known as ‘silver market’- who associate nihonsei with quality and safety. Retail environments reinforce this by celebrating regional produce through visible in‑store signage and promotions, cultivating a sense of pride and influencing purchasing behaviour. Lessons for India from subtle product labelling strategies India can adapt principles from Japan’s model to promote Swadeshi through dignity and visibility rather than restrictions or bans. Encouraging voluntary “made in India” signage could foster national pride among consumers and merchants alike. When origin becomes a mark of identity rather than a mandate, self‑reliance may become ingrained in consumer choice. Also read: 'One rocket every week, 50 per year': PM Modi aims big for 'self-reliant' India Swadeshi, then and now India’s historical Swadeshi movement began as a boycott of British goods in the early 1900s. Today’s ‘vocal for local’ initiative reframes that legacy into a modern push for competitive, high‑quality Indian goods. Compared to Japan’s quiet yet culturally embedded emphasis on local origin, India’s swadeshi push could benefit from similar subtlety and strategic branding. Modi’s swadeshi campaign, through visible public declarations by shopkeepers, echoes Japan’s nihonsei labelling system. By combining regulatory clarity with cultural affirmation, India could elevate domestic products in a way that feels empowering rather than coercive. Japan offers India a clear lesson: Self‑reliance can be built on transparency, trust, and national pride.

As Indian PM Modi visits Japan, his ‘Swadeshi’ push finds a parallel in Japan’s “Nihonsei”, &nbsp;the subtle promotion of local goods through clear origin tags and retail practices. India could adopt this model to build consumer trust and national pride without enforcing trade restrictions.

Modi's ‘Swadeshi’ push can take inspiration from 'Nihonsei' (wow they even sound similar) in Japan, which he's visiting amid Trump tariffs

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday and briefed him about the situation in J&amp;K, especially Jammu province, where heavy and continuous rainfall caused a lot of damage and disrupted normal life. The CM said that he could not reach Jammu due to the closure of Jammu airport and added that efforts are being made to restore phone and data connectivity as soon as possible, and is closely monitoring the situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just spoke to the Union Home Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> ji on the phone to brief him about the situation in J&amp;K, especially Jammu province, where heavy &amp; continuous rains have caused a lot of damage and disruption to normal life. Efforts are being made to restore phone/data connectivity…&mdash; Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1960345385920037347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The Jammu region has been experiencing intense monsoon showers for the past few days, causing rivers to swell, triggering landslides, and disrupting normal life in low-lying and hilly areas.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian Army and the CRPF joined the rescue operations in Jammu sector. The Indian Army launched Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in flood-affected areas of Jammu region and deployed multiple rescue columns and helicopters to evacuate stranded civilians, students, and security personnel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhiteKnightCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhiteKnightCorps</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HADR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HADR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuFloods</a> Relief Operations: 26 Aug 25<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katra</a> Three Relief Columns of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhiteKnightCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhiteKnightCorps</a> have swiftly mobilised in rescue &amp; relief operations in and around Katra. One Column is assisting in saving lives in Ardhkuwari, Katra, One relief column…&mdash; White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Whiteknight_IA/status/1960325163809136982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The Army personnel rescued seven civilians, including one child, at Garhi Garh in the RS Pura Sector, while around a dozen 12 civilians trapped inside a building in Shergarh, RS Pura Sector are being rescued. Rescue efforts are underway to evacuate students stranded in the Sher-e-Kashmir University, Jammu while troops were working to evacuate students trapped at a government school in Swahanjana.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rescue and Relief Operations in Ardhkuwari, Katra, Jammu region Due to continuous heavy rain in Katra and nearby area today, landslides near Ardhkuwari injured several pilgrims. 6 Bn <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRPF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CRPF</a>&#39;s troopers swiftly launched rescue ops, safely evacuating the injured to CHC Katra. The… <a href="https://t.co/eD3rKpsdMx">pic.twitter.com/eD3rKpsdMx</a>&mdash; 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/crpfindia/status/1960339461872492808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;In Mamun sector, 11 BSF personnel were safely evacuated from Nikka BOP, nine Army personnel and 50 civilians were being evacuated from Bhariyal, shared Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, PRO &amp; Spokesperson, Ministry of Defence, Jammu.&nbsp;<h2>Five killed, 10 injured in landslide near Vaishno Devi shrine&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, at least five people were killed and 10 others injured as heavy rains led to a landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra on Tuesday, officials said. Rescue teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident. The bodies and the injured were shifted to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Katra.“Rescue operation is underway. Five bodies have been brought to CHC Katra. Some people are reportedly injured. We will share further information as it comes,” Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Katra Piyush Dhotra told news agency ANI.The landslide occurred near Indraprastha Bhojnalaya at Ardhkwari cave temple on the route to the Vaishno Devi shrine.&nbsp;WATCH: J&amp;K Cloudburst: Nine Dead in Two Incidents Across J&amp;K, 4 in Doda, 5 in Vaishno Devi&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/j-k-cloudburst-nine-dead-in-two-incidents-across-j-k-4-in-doda-5-in-vaishno-devi-1756215861749/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/j-k-cloudburst-nine-dead-in-two-incidents-across-j-k-4-in-doda-5-in-vaishno-devi-1756215861749/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Train services disrupted</h2>&nbsp;The landslide and continuous rainfall also hit railway services in the region. Eighteen trains were cancelled due to soil erosion between Pathankot Cantt and Kandrori and flash floods in the Chakki river. Officials said that train movement was suspended between Jammu Tawi and Katra, and between Jammu Tawi and Bari Brahmana.&nbsp;The Meteorological Department (MET) issued an advisory warning of “intense to very heavy rain at scattered places and extremely heavy rain at isolated places” in Jammu division, and moderate to heavy rain in south Kashmir on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The MeT advisory also warned about cloudburst and flash floods at few vulnerable places with landslides and shooting stones and urged people to stay away from water bodies, nullahs, river embankments, etc.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday and briefed him about the situation in J&K, especially Jammu province, where heavy and continuous rainfall caused a lot of damage and disrupted normal life. The CM said that he could not reach Jammu due to the closure of Jammu airport and added that efforts are being made to restore phone and data connectivity as soon as possible, and is closely monitoring the situation.

The MeT advisory also warned about cloudburst and flash floods at few vulnerable places with landslides and shooting stones and urged people to stay away from water bodies, nullahs, river embankments, etc.

CM Omar Abdullah briefs Amit Shah on J&K situation; Army, CRPF join rescue ops after Vaishno Devi landslide

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday that India will no longer depend on foreign shipbuilding for its Navy, and no future ship will be built abroad, as he commissioned two advanced stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam and called it a major step towards India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. INS Udaygiri has been built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai, and INS Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata.&nbsp;The two warships, part of the Indian Navy’s state-of-the-art Project 17A, mark the first time that frontline surface combatants built at two different shipyards have been commissioned simultaneously.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">अब हमने तय कर लिया है कि भविष्य में भारतीय नौसेना के लिए कोई भी जहाज विदेश में नहीं बनेगा, सभी जहाज भारत में ही निर्मित होंगे। <a href="https://t.co/AGdeUPZlc3">pic.twitter.com/AGdeUPZlc3</a>&mdash; Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1960313698389549316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Both vessels are follow-on ships of the Shivalik-class frigates, equipped with enhanced stealth features, upgraded weapon and sensor systems, and designed to undertake the full spectrum of maritime operations in blue-water conditions.&nbsp;<h2>‘Decisive step towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing’</h2>&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the twin commissioning underscored the growing strategic role of India’s eastern seaboard and enhances the Indian Navy’s increasing capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region. “The Indian Navy not only guards our coastal areas, but also ensures peace and prosperity in the entire Indian Ocean region,” he said.&nbsp;The defence minister described the induction of the frigates as a “dream come true” for Atmanirbhar Bharat. “The commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri is proof of our vision and commitment towards building a strong and self-reliant India,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indian Navy commissions two advanced stealth frigates - INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri - in Visakhapatnam . . . . Video: ANI <a href="https://t.co/wKRkrydNvp">pic.twitter.com/wKRkrydNvp</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1960305138100474294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>‘India will no longer depend on foreign shipbuilding for its Navy’</h2>&nbsp;Singh emphasised that India will no longer depend on foreign shipbuilding for its Navy, and said, “INS Tamal was the last foreign order for the Indian Navy. We have decided that no future ship for the Indian Navy will be built abroad; we will build our ships in India. This is a very decisive step towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.”&nbsp;“The Indian Navy has completed a century with the commissioning of these warships,” he added. Udaygiri is the 100th ship designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).Underlining India’s defensive posture, Singh said, “India never believes in exhibiting strength. We have never attacked any country first. But when our security is threatened, we know how to give an appropriate response.”&nbsp;WATCH: Indian Air Force Bids Emotional Farewell to Iconic MiG-21 Fighter Jets&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-air-force-bids-emotional-farewell-to-iconic-mig-21-fighter-jets-1756209531733/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-air-force-bids-emotional-farewell-to-iconic-mig-21-fighter-jets-1756209531733/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials said that the frigates would not only protect the sea trade routes, but also make India's naval presence credible in the Indian Ocean region from the Strait of Malacca to Africa.

The Indian Navy has completed a century with the commissioning of these warships, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, referring to Udaygiri, which is the 100th ship designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday that India will no longer depend on foreign shipbuilding for its Navy, and no future ship will be built abroad, as he commissioned two advanced stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam and called it a major step towards India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. INS Udaygiri has been built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai, and INS Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata. The two warships, part of the Indian Navy’s state-of-the-art Project 17A, mark the first time that frontline surface combatants built at two different shipyards have been commissioned simultaneously.

The Indian Navy has completed a century with the commissioning of these warships, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, referring to Udaygiri, which is the 100th ship designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).

‘No future ship will be built abroad,’ says Rajnath as Navy inducts 2 advanced stealth frigates

Every year, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day of the month of Bhadrapada in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. It is the birth anniversary of elephant-headed Hindu deity Ganesha, god of prosperity, wisdom, and removal of obstacles. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will start on August 26, 2025. The festival lasts up to 10 days. Ends on the 10th day with Ganesh Visarjan, when devotees immerse the beautifully crafted idol in waterways. This is an auspicious occasion to send heartfelt messages, wishes, and quotes to family and friends. Here is a list of the top 50 Ganesh Chaturthi Greetings.<h2>Ganesh Chaturthi wishes, messages and quotes</h2>Wishing you a joyful Ganesh Chaturthi! May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from your life.May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to you and your family.On this holy occasion, may Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom and strength.Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025! May the presence of Bappa fill your home with positivity, peace, and harmony.Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! May Bappa guide you on the path of righteousness and success.May Bappa shower his blessings on you today and always.Let this festival be a reminder of the strength we find in each other. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!Every family needs a guiding light! May Bappa become your guiding light.Hugs, sweets and prayers! Sending a lot your way, Happy Ganesh Chaturthi.May Bappa come to your house along with joy and good fortune.Let us welcome Ganpati with love and bid him farewell with gratitude.May this Ganesh Chaturthi inspire new beginnings and success in all your endeavours.Wishing you strength to overcome challenges as Ganesha removes all hurdles from your path.Sending warm wishes for a blessed Ganesh Chaturthi filled with faith and togetherness.May Lord Ganesha open the doors to endless opportunities?You are the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom- Bless us, O Lord Ganesha!Guide us on the path of knowledge and righteousness.Ganpati Bappa Morya!&nbsp;May Lord Ganesha always watch over you.Celebrate life with Bappa’s divine presence.Happy Ganeshotsav 2025.May our family always stay united under Bappa’s blessings.To my dear friend, wishing you endless joy this Ganesh Chaturthi.May our bond grow stronger with Bappa’s grace.Wishing you love, laughter, and prosperity on this Ganesh Chaturthi.May your home be filled with devotion and celebrations.Wishing you modkas galore.May Bappa grant you wisdom to achieve your dreams.Wishing you success in every new beginning.Let Lord Ganesha be your guiding light in tough times.May your life be as sweet as modaks.Ganpati Bappa’s blessings are with you always.May you become as wise as Lord GaneshaHappy Ganesh Chaturthi to you and your loved ones!May every prayer you make reach Bappa’s ears.Here’s wishing your dreams come true this year.Vakratunda Mahakaya, Suryakoti Samaprabha; Nirvighnam Kurume Deva, Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada.Lord Ganesha is the symbol of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.Invoke Bappa with a pure heart, and he will guide you.Faith in Ganesha removes fear from life.Wishing you a Ganesh Chaturthi filled with happiness, peace, and success. May Lord Ganesha always be with you on your journey.This Ganesh Chaturthi, let’s celebrate with love, hope, and trust in Bappa’s divine plan. May he remove every obstacle from your path.May Ganesha bless you with courage to follow your heart, wisdom to navigate life, and strength to overcome all difficulties.Let the grace of Lord Ganesha empower you to achieve all your goals and embrace every new beginning with open arms.

Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 with heartfelt wishes and greetings. Share the best Ganpati Bappa messages, quotes, and blessings with your friends and family this festive season.

Every year, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day of the month of Bhadrapada in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. It is the birth anniversary of elephant-headed Hindu deity Ganesha, god of prosperity, wisdom, and removal of obstacles. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will start on August 26, 2025. The festival lasts up to 10 days. Ends on the 10th day with Ganesh Visarjan, when devotees immerse the beautifully crafted idol in waterways. This is an auspicious occasion to send heartfelt messages, wishes, and quotes to family and friends. Here is a list of the top 50 Ganesh Chaturthi Greetings. Ganesh Chaturthi wishes, messages and quotes Wishing you a joyful Ganesh Chaturthi! May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from your life. May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to you and your family. On this holy occasion, may Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom and strength. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025! May the presence of Bappa fill your home with positivity, peace, and harmony. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! May Bappa guide you on the path of righteousness and success. May Bappa shower his blessings on you today and always. Let this festival be a reminder of the strength we find in each other. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! Every family needs a guiding light! May Bappa become your guiding light. Hugs, sweets and prayers! Sending a lot your way, Happy Ganesh Chaturthi. May Bappa come to your house along with joy and good fortune. Let us welcome Ganpati with love and bid him farewell with gratitude. May this Ganesh Chaturthi inspire new beginnings and success in all your endeavours. Wishing you strength to overcome challenges as Ganesha removes all hurdles from your path. Sending warm wishes for a blessed Ganesh Chaturthi filled with faith and togetherness. May Lord Ganesha open the doors to endless opportunities? You are the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom- Bless us, O Lord Ganesha! Guide us on the path of knowledge and righteousness. Ganpati Bappa Morya! May Lord Ganesha always watch over you. Celebrate life with Bappa’s divine presence. Happy Ganeshotsav 2025. May our family always stay united under Bappa’s blessings. To my dear friend, wishing you endless joy this Ganesh Chaturthi. May our bond grow stronger with Bappa’s grace. Wishing you love, laughter, and prosperity on this Ganesh Chaturthi. May your home be filled with devotion and celebrations. Wishing you modkas galore. May Bappa grant you wisdom to achieve your dreams. Wishing you success in every new beginning. Let Lord Ganesha be your guiding light in tough times. May your life be as sweet as modaks. Ganpati Bappa’s blessings are with you always. May you become as wise as Lord Ganesha Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to you and your loved ones! May every prayer you make reach Bappa’s ears. Here’s wishing your dreams come true this year. Vakratunda Mahakaya, Suryakoti Samaprabha; Nirvighnam Kurume Deva, Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada. Lord Ganesha is the symbol of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Invoke Bappa with a pure heart, and he will guide you. Faith in Ganesha removes fear from life. Wishing you a Ganesh Chaturthi filled with happiness, peace, and success. May Lord Ganesha always be with you on your journey. This Ganesh Chaturthi, let’s celebrate with love, hope, and trust in Bappa’s divine plan. May he remove every obstacle from your path. May Ganesha bless you with courage to follow your heart, wisdom to navigate life, and strength to overcome all difficulties. Let the grace of Lord Ganesha empower you to achieve all your goals and embrace every new beginning with open arms.

Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 with heartfelt wishes and greetings. Share the best Ganpati Bappa messages, quotes, and blessings with your friends and family this festive season.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 wishes, messages, and greetings to share with loved ones

Dream Sports, the parent company of fantasy sports giant Dream11, is facing one of the biggest crises in its history after India’s new online gaming law wiped out nearly all of its revenue. But in a strong message to employees, CEO and co-founder Harsh Jain has assured that there will be no layoffs despite the staggering losses. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, banned real-money games across the country. For Dream11, whose business was built around paid fantasy contests, the move proved devastating. Jain admitted that the company’s revenue plunged by 95 per cent overnight, with profits completely erased.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/donald-trump-s-tariff-what-will-happen-to-apple-s-made-in-india-iphone-supply-to-us-1756204656047">Donald Trump's tariff: What will happen to Apple's Made-in-India iPhone supply to the US?</a><h2>‘No job cuts’</h2>While industry speculation pointed towards mass layoffs, Jain rejected the idea firmly. “We’re not interested in doing any layoffs. All the talent here is safe,” he told employees, adding that the company has a two-year cash runway to protect jobs. “If we lay off talent, we should shut down,” he said.Instead of shrinking its workforce, Dream Sports has begun a major shift in strategy. The new plan—branded as Dream11 3.0—focuses on:<ol><li>Expanding free-to-play fantasy formats</li><li>Building revenue through advertising</li><li>Exploring AI-driven tools, content, gaming studios, fintech, and live sports experiences</li></ol>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-odi-world-cup-what-is-bronco-test-manoj-tiwary-1756207166953">'Bronco Test introduced to keep Rohit out of 2027 ODI WC,' says ex-India batter Manoj Tiwary</a>&nbsp;The company will, however, cut back on marketing and sponsorship spends to conserve resources. Employees from the real-money gaming division are being redeployed into these new projects. Jain described himself as a “delusional optimist,” saying Dream Sports has enough capital to rebuild. Importantly, the company has decided not to challenge the government’s ban in court, choosing instead to pivot and adapt. For now, Dream11’s real-money contests are gone, but the platform continues in a free-to-play format. Whether the company can reinvent itself successfully will determine if it remains a key player in India’s sports-tech ecosystem.

Dream11 lost 95 per cent revenue due to online gaming ban. Will it lay off staff? CEO Harish Jain says...

Dream Sports, the parent company of fantasy sports giant Dream11, is facing one of the biggest crises in its history after India’s new online gaming law wiped out nearly all of its revenue. But in a strong message to employees, CEO and co-founder Harsh Jain has assured that there will be no layoffs despite the staggering losses. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, banned real-money games across the country. For Dream11, whose business was built around paid fantasy contests, the move proved devastating. Jain admitted that the company’s revenue plunged by 95 per cent overnight, with profits completely erased. Also Read: Donald Trump's tariff: What will happen to Apple's Made-in-India iPhone supply to the US? ‘No job cuts’ While industry speculation pointed towards mass layoffs, Jain rejected the idea firmly. “We’re not interested in doing any layoffs. All the talent here is safe,” he told employees, adding that the company has a two-year cash runway to protect jobs. “If we lay off talent, we should shut down,” he said. Instead of shrinking its workforce, Dream Sports has begun a major shift in strategy. The new plan—branded as Dream11 3.0—focuses on: Expanding free-to-play fantasy formats Building revenue through advertising Exploring AI-driven tools, content, gaming studios, fintech, and live sports experiences Also Read: 'Bronco Test introduced to keep Rohit out of 2027 ODI WC,' says ex-India batter Manoj Tiwary The company will, however, cut back on marketing and sponsorship spends to conserve resources. Employees from the real-money gaming division are being redeployed into these new projects. Jain described himself as a “delusional optimist,” saying Dream Sports has enough capital to rebuild. Importantly, the company has decided not to challenge the government’s ban in court, choosing instead to pivot and adapt. For now, Dream11’s real-money contests are gone, but the platform continues in a free-to-play format. Whether the company can reinvent itself successfully will determine if it remains a key player in India’s sports-tech ecosystem.

The ban on the Online Gaming Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament, after which it became law after getting Presidential assent on August 22

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Delhi and adjoining areas on Tuesday afternoon as heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms continued to lash the national capital region. The warning of the weather agency is likely to remain in place for the next three hours.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Delhi: Parts of the national capital experience rainfall (Visuals from the Mayur Vihar area) <a href="https://t.co/7RJwVhxnU0">pic.twitter.com/7RJwVhxnU0</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://twitter.com/ians_india/status/1960296723902828838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The latest data of the met department showed that moderate to heavy showers are expected across several parts of Delhi, South Haryana, East Rajasthan and North Gujarat. In addition, the weather department warned that the intensity of the rain might exceed 15 mm per hour in some locations, which could result in waterlogging and traffic disruptions.<h3>Airlines issue advisories</h3>Meanwhile, several Airlines, including SpiceJet and Air India, on Tuesday warned their passengers of potential delays and snags in flight operations due to continuous rainfall in Delhi NCR. Taking to social media platform X, airlines requested passengers to check their flight status in advance in their respective travel advisories.&nbsp;Air India said on X, “Persistent rain may affect flight operations to and from Delhi today. Please check your flight status at https://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before leaving, and allow extra travel time to the airport.”&nbsp;Spice Jet also said, “Due to bad weather in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may be affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status via http://spicejet.com/#status.”&nbsp;In the early hours of Tuesday, IndiGo Airlines also warned its travellers of heavy traffic due to rain and directed them to check their flight schedule before leaving for the airport. “It is a rainy start in Delhi, with gentle showers expected throughout the day. Though conditions are not severe, some roads may be slower than usual. If you are flying today, we suggest checking your flight status and setting out early,” the airlines said in a post on X.

After the ‘red alert’, the IMD warned that the intensity of the rain might exceed 15 mm per hour in some locations, which could result in waterlogging and traffic disruptions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Delhi and adjoining areas on Tuesday afternoon as heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms continued to lash the national capital region. The warning of the weather agency is likely to remain in place for the next three hours.

After the ‘red alert’, the IMD warned that the intensity of the rain might exceed 15 mm per hour in some locations, which could result in waterlogging and traffic disruptions.

IMD issues 'Red Alert' for Delhi as heavy rains lash NCR, airlines warn of flight delays

In honour of National Dog Day, let's have a look at the complex relationship between people and stray dogs in Delhi — especially in light of the Supreme Court of India's recent order(s) regarding the city's street dogs.

National Dog Day: Delhi's stray dogs caught between love and law | In Pics

Nine people were reported killed and several properties damaged due to heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. Five people died in a landslide at Adhkwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine route and 14 others were injured. Officials said two people died when their house collapsed, and two others died in flash floods. The district administration has asked people to stay away from riverbanks and remain alert. Meanwhile, the pilgrimage to the Hindu shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in the Trikutah Hills of the Reasi district was suspended temporarily on Tuesday until further notice as heavy rainfall continued to batter Jammu and Kashmir. The India Meteorological Department also issued a red alert for the Union Territory. Besides, a landslide occurred near the Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwari in which 5 people died and 14 others were injured, said Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jai Mata Di In an unfortunate incident of landslide at Adhkwari, 5 people have lost their lives and 14 others have been injured. Rescue operations underway.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaishnoDevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaishnoDevi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YatraUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YatraUpdate</a>&mdash; Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialSMVDSB/status/1960308990140919870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is located in the Trikuta Hills near Katra in the Reasi district. Devotees traditionally undertake a 13-km trek from Katra to the shrine.The battery car and helicopter services to the cave shrine were stopped earlier, but the yatra had continued through the traditional track until it was suspended.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A landslide incident has occurred near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwari, some injuries are feared. Rescue operations are underway along with required manpower and machinery. Jai Mata Di<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaishnoDevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaishnoDevi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YatraUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YatraUpdate</a>&mdash; Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialSMVDSB/status/1960275049996583048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Several roads were blocked in the Jammu region due to continuous heavy rainfall that triggered landslides.Incessant rainfall for a third consecutive day also led to the suspension of traffic along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katra</a>: Vaishno Devi Yatra temporarily halted by Shrine Board due to heavy overnight rainfall.<a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialSMVDSB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialSMVDSB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/diprjk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@diprjk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vaishnodevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vaishnodevi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yatra</a> <a href="https://t.co/kCjTwBfped">pic.twitter.com/kCjTwBfped</a>&mdash; DD NEWS JAMMU | डीडी न्यूज़ जम्मू (@ddnews_jammu) <a href="https://twitter.com/ddnews_jammu/status/1960281376399224945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials said that almost all the rivers and streams are flowing above or close to the danger mark, and as a result, several low-lying areas and roads in the city are submerged.Traffic along the 250-km Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended as a precautionary measure after shooting of stones from the hillocks of Chanderkote, Kela Morh and Battery Cheshma in Ramban district, said officials.Reports of damage to infrastructure were received from Kishtwar, Doda and Rajouri districts, mostly in the higher reaches.&nbsp;Four people died after a cloudburst was reported in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Tuesday.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the situation in various parts of Jammu is quite serious after heavy rain and directed the administration to maintain high alert.CM Abdullah gave instructions to take stock of flood control measures in Jammu and said directions have been issued to avail additional funds for deputy commissioners to cover emergency restoration work and other exigencies.&nbsp;WATCH: Cloudburst in J&amp;K’s Doda Sparks Flash Floods, Heavy Rains Cause Destruction&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cloudburst-in-j-k-s-doda-sparks-flash-floods-heavy-rains-cause-destruction-1756198734675/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cloudburst-in-j-k-s-doda-sparks-flash-floods-heavy-rains-cause-destruction-1756198734675/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The water levels in Taranah River, Ujh River, Maggar Khad, Sahar Khad, Ravi River, and their tributaries in Kathua are rising and nearing the danger mark, said officials.The Tawi river has crossed the 20-foot danger mark in Udhampur district and is flowing above the alert level in Jammu. The Chenab is also flowing close to the warning level in Jammu.According to the weather department, Kathua recorded the highest 155.6 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, followed by Doda’s Bhaderwah at 99.8 mm, Jammu at 81.5 mm, and Katra at 68.8 mm.The IMD forecast has warned of heavy rainfall in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar and people have been advised to stay away from water bodies and landslide-prone areas.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the situation in various parts of Jammu is quite serious after heavy rain and directed the administration to maintain high alert. He said directions have been issued for additional funds to deputy commissioners for emergency work and exigencies.

Nine people were reported killed and several properties damaged due to heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. Five people died in a landslide at Adhkwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine route and 14 others were injured. Officials said two people died when their house collapsed, and two others died in flash floods. The district administration has asked people to stay away from riverbanks and remain alert. Meanwhile, the pilgrimage to the Hindu shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in the Trikutah Hills of the Reasi district was suspended temporarily on Tuesday until further notice as heavy rainfall continued to batter Jammu and Kashmir. The India Meteorological Department also issued a red alert for the Union Territory. Besides, a landslide occurred near the Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwari in which 5 people died and 14 others were injured, said Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the situation in various parts of Jammu is quite serious after heavy rain and directed the administration to maintain high alert. He said directions have been issued for additional funds to deputy commissioners for emergency work and exigencies.

9 killed in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, landslide

From weeks of deficit to a surge of rain pushing August 2025 into the record books, the monsoon of Delhi has shifted dramatically this year. The national capital has had its second-highest August rainfall over a decade by late August. Across 11 rainy days, Delhi has witnessed 311.8 mm of rain in August, putting it just behind last year’s 390.3 mm in 17 days.&nbsp;August rains reflected moderate variation between 2018 and 2021, followed by two very dry Augusts in 2022 with 41.6 mm of rain and 91.8 mm in 2023. However, the recovery in 2024 and 2025 quickly shifted from deficit to surplus by August, according to the India Meteorological Department.&nbsp;As per the IMD, rainfall in Delhi rose exponentially this year, recording 553.8 mm of rain this season, 36 per cent above normal, remaining behind only Ladakh and Rajasthan. But surprisingly, Delhi witnessed rainfall season weak with only 56 per cent of rain, below normal in the week ending June 11. But, it received a slight 12 per cent surplus rain by June 18, and another 28 per cent deficit on June 25. However, July saw little improvement.&nbsp;The turnaround came as rainfall rose 13 per cent above normal in the week ending July 30. Between June to July, the city witnessed only one week above normal rainfall. August, however, showed a sharp rise, 26% above normal in its first week, followed by 35% by August 12 and 37% by August 20. These heavy spells erased the earlier deficits, pushing Delhi into one of its wettest monsoons in more than a decade.<h3>How AQI of Delhi shift with rain?</h3>Generally, Rainfall comes with clean air for the city, but the August data shows a mixed picture. In 2020, with 237 mm of rain, the AQI of Delhi dropped to 64, among the cleanest in the recent past. Similarly, in August 2024, the wettest in over a decade at 390.3 mm of rain, the AQI improved to 72.&nbsp;In contrast, dry spells kept pollution higher. In 2022 (41.6 mm rain) and 2023 (91.8 mm rain), AQI levels stayed elevated at 90+ and 116. This August, the AQI averaged around 91, an improvement over dry years, but not as clean as wetter ones.

The weather agency confirmed that rainfall in Delhi rose exponentially this year, recording 553.8 mm of rain this season, 36 per cent above normal, remaining behind only Ladakh and Rajasthan.

From weeks of deficit to a surge of rain pushing August 2025 into the record books, the monsoon of Delhi has shifted dramatically this year. The national capital has had its second-highest August rainfall over a decade by late August. Across 11 rainy days, Delhi has witnessed 311.8 mm of rain in August, putting it just behind last year’s 390.3 mm in 17 days. August rains reflected moderate variation between 2018 and 2021, followed by two very dry Augusts in 2022 with 41.6 mm of rain and 91.8 mm in 2023. However, the recovery in 2024 and 2025 quickly shifted from deficit to surplus by August, according to the India Meteorological Department. As per the IMD, rainfall in Delhi rose exponentially this year, recording 553.8 mm of rain this season, 36 per cent above normal, remaining behind only Ladakh and Rajasthan. But surprisingly, Delhi witnessed rainfall season weak with only 56 per cent of rain, below normal in the week ending June 11. But, it received a slight 12 per cent surplus rain by June 18, and another 28 per cent deficit on June 25. However, July saw little improvement. The turnaround came as rainfall rose 13 per cent above normal in the week ending July 30. Between June to July, the city witnessed only one week above normal rainfall. August, however, showed a sharp rise, 26% above normal in its first week, followed by 35% by August 12 and 37% by August 20. These heavy spells erased the earlier deficits, pushing Delhi into one of its wettest monsoons in more than a decade. How AQI of Delhi shift with rain? Generally, Rainfall comes with clean air for the city, but the August data shows a mixed picture. In 2020, with 237 mm of rain, the AQI of Delhi dropped to 64, among the cleanest in the recent past. Similarly, in August 2024, the wettest in over a decade at 390.3 mm of rain, the AQI improved to 72. In contrast, dry spells kept pollution higher. In 2022 (41.6 mm rain) and 2023 (91.8 mm rain), AQI levels stayed elevated at 90+ and 116. This August, the AQI averaged around 91, an improvement over dry years, but not as clean as wetter ones.

The weather agency confirmed that rainfall in Delhi rose exponentially this year, recording 553.8 mm of rain this season, 36 per cent above normal, remaining behind only Ladakh and Rajasthan.

Delhi records wettest August in over a decade? Know what the IMD data says

Four people died after a cloudburst was reported in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Tuesday (Aug 26). Several roads were blocked in India's Jammu due to continuous heavy rainfall that triggered landslides. Doda district of Jammu was severely affected, with heavy rainfall in other districts. A flash flood was also reported in the Charwa area of Bhalesa. Traffic along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended. The rain fury occurred in the area amid the Indian Meteorological Department's (IMD) red alert for heavy rain in several parts of Jammu, including Kathua, Samba, Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar districts. Most rivers are also flowing above danger marks. The Jammu government announced that all schools in the Jammu division will be shut today. As per reports, a girl died in a house collapse in Doda's Bhalesa.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Doda hit by massive flood after sudden cloudburst - shocking visuals emerge . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Doda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Doda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cloudburst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cloudburst</a> <a href="https://t.co/uEiCsBiBMm">pic.twitter.com/uEiCsBiBMm</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1960259530652332364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-rains-schools-shut-in-jammu-for-second-consecutive-day-met-says-weather-to-improve-tomorrow-onwards-1755588292400">Jammu &amp; Kashmir rains: Schools shut in Jammu for second consecutive day, MeT says weather to improve tomorrow onwards</a><h2>Roads closed, heavy rainfall continues</h2>According to officials quoted by the Indian news agency PTI, traffic on the 250-kilometre Jammu-Srinagar national highway was halted as a precaution on Tuesday morning due to rockfall incidents from hill slopes at Chanderkote, Kela Morh, and Battery Cheshma in Ramban district. They added that vehicular movement was stopped at Udhampur in Jammu and Qazigund in Kashmir. Heavy rainfall was reported along the entire stretch of the highway at the time of the latest updates. This highway is the only all-weather route connecting Kashmir with the rest of India. The closure of roads and flooding situation in Jammu area happened days after Kishtwar district was struck by a massive cloudburst in mid-August. Heavy rainfall also led to cloudbursts in several districts of Himachal Pradesh, including Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra, resulting in at least 31 fatalities.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-kashmir-cloudburst-inclement-weather-forces-schools-to-shut-1755613781783/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-kashmir-cloudburst-inclement-weather-forces-schools-to-shut-1755613781783/embed</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a review meeting in Jammu to assess the flood situation in Jammu and Kashmir, joined by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister Jitendra Singh. He later visited a Jammu hospital to meet cloudburst victims in Kishtwar, praising the medical staff for their dedicated care. Union minister Jitendra Singh also said that the government is keeping a close eye on the situation.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-india-alerts-pakistan-about-flood-situation-via-high-commission-1756087257261">With Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, India alerts Pakistan about flood situation via High Commission</a><h2>Helpline numbers issued for Jammu districts amid the heavy rainfall</h2>1. Doda – 95967762032. Jammu – 0191-25716163. Reasi – 94198395574. Poonch – 01965-22008885. Rajouri – 01962-2958956. Udhampur – 01992-272727, 01992-2727287. Kathua – 01922-2387968. Ramban – 01998-29550, 01998-2667909. Samba – 01923-241004, 01923-24691510. Kishtwar – 9484217492&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weather-alert-imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-these-states-red-alert-issued-check-forecast-1756009993262">Weather alert: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in THESE states</a>

Four people died after a cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district caused landslides and blocked roads. Heavy rain led to flash floods and traffic was halted on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. Schools in Jammu remain closed amid IMD's red alert. 

Four people died after a cloudburst was reported in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Tuesday (Aug 26). Several roads were blocked in India's Jammu due to continuous heavy rainfall that triggered landslides. Doda district of Jammu was severely affected, with heavy rainfall in other districts. A flash flood was also reported in the Charwa area of Bhalesa. Traffic along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended. The rain fury occurred in the area amid the Indian Meteorological Department's (IMD) red alert for heavy rain in several parts of Jammu, including Kathua, Samba, Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar districts. Most rivers are also flowing above danger marks. The Jammu government announced that all schools in the Jammu division will be shut today. As per reports, a girl died in a house collapse in Doda's Bhalesa.

Four people died after a cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district caused landslides and blocked roads. Heavy rain led to flash floods and traffic was halted on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. Schools in Jammu remain closed amid IMD's red alert.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir's Doda hit by massive flood after sudden cloudburst, several roads closed  - Dramatic video surfaces

The Indian Navy is set to commission two advanced Nilgiri-class stealth guided-missile frigates, the indigenously built INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, on Tuesday. Developed under Project 17A, frigates will be commissioned simultaneously on August 26 at the Visakhapatnam Naval Dockyard at 2.45 pm, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the event.<h3>About INS Udaygiri</h3>The INS Udaygiri is the second ship of the Project 17A series and the 100th vessel which was constructed at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai and designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau. It was named after the Udayagiri mountain range in Andhra Pradesh, which is the second naval ship to bear the name. The first of its class served from 1976 to 2007.&nbsp;Laid down in December 2017, re-launched in May 2022, and delivered in July 2025, Udaygiri was completed in just 37 months, a remarkable turnaround.<h3>INS Udaygiri key features</h3>Displacement: Approximately 6,700 tonnes.Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system with diesel engines and gas turbines.Stealth: Advanced design to reduce radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures.Weapons: BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles, a 76 mm main gun, Barak 8 surface-to-air missiles, Close-In Weapon Systems, and advanced anti-submarine warfare weapons.Indigenisation: About 75%, including the Integrated Platform Management System, locally sourced sensors and weapons.The project involved over 200 MSMEs, created nearly 4,000 direct jobs and 10,000 indirect jobs, and is seen as a major achievement under the Make in India initiative.<h3>INS Himgiri: A New Era in Project 17A Frigates</h3>Constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, INS Himgiri is the first Project 17A stealth frigate built at the yard. Served from 1974 to 2005, it continued the legacy of the original INS Himgiri. Its new vessel was launched in December 2020 and delivered in July 2025, boasting nearly 75 per cent indigenous content.<h3>INS Hmgiri key features</h3>Displacement: Approximately 6,670 tonnes.Length: 149 metres.Stealth: Advanced design to reduce radar and infrared signatures.Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system, enabling speeds above 28 knots with long-range endurance for blue-water operations.Weapons: Equipped with BrahMos missiles, Barak 8 air-defence system, Close-In Weapon Systems, torpedo tubes, and anti-submarine rocket launchers, along with advanced EW systems.Aviation: Flight deck and hangar support for MH-60 Romeo, ALH Dhruv Mk-III, and Sea King helicopters, enhancing roles in reconnaissance, ASW, and search-and-rescue missions.

Project 17A involved over 200 MSMEs, created nearly 4,000 direct jobs and 10,000 indirect jobs, and is seen as a major achievement under the Make in India initiative.

The Indian Navy is set to commission two advanced Nilgiri-class stealth guided-missile frigates, the indigenously built INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, on Tuesday. Developed under Project 17A, frigates will be commissioned simultaneously on August 26 at the Visakhapatnam Naval Dockyard at 2.45 pm, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the event. About INS Udaygiri The INS Udaygiri is the second ship of the Project 17A series and the 100th vessel which was constructed at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai and designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau. It was named after the Udayagiri mountain range in Andhra Pradesh, which is the second naval ship to bear the name. The first of its class served from 1976 to 2007. Laid down in December 2017, re-launched in May 2022, and delivered in July 2025, Udaygiri was completed in just 37 months, a remarkable turnaround. INS Udaygiri key features Displacement: Approximately 6,700 tonnes. Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system with diesel engines and gas turbines. Stealth: Advanced design to reduce radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures. Weapons: BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles, a 76 mm main gun, Barak 8 surface-to-air missiles, Close-In Weapon Systems, and advanced anti-submarine warfare weapons. Indigenisation: About 75%, including the Integrated Platform Management System, locally sourced sensors and weapons. The project involved over 200 MSMEs, created nearly 4,000 direct jobs and 10,000 indirect jobs, and is seen as a major achievement under the Make in India initiative. INS Himgiri: A New Era in Project 17A Frigates Constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, INS Himgiri is the first Project 17A stealth frigate built at the yard. Served from 1974 to 2005, it continued the legacy of the original INS Himgiri. Its new vessel was launched in December 2020 and delivered in July 2025, boasting nearly 75 per cent indigenous content. INS Hmgiri key features Displacement: Approximately 6,670 tonnes. Length: 149 metres. Stealth: Advanced design to reduce radar and infrared signatures. Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system, enabling speeds above 28 knots with long-range endurance for blue-water operations. Weapons: Equipped with BrahMos missiles, Barak 8 air-defence system, Close-In Weapon Systems, torpedo tubes, and anti-submarine rocket launchers, along with advanced EW systems. Aviation: Flight deck and hangar support for MH-60 Romeo, ALH Dhruv Mk-III, and Sea King helicopters, enhancing roles in reconnaissance, ASW, and search-and-rescue missions.

Project 17A involved over 200 MSMEs, created nearly 4,000 direct jobs and 10,000 indirect jobs, and is seen as a major achievement under the Make in India initiative.

INS Udaygiri, INS Himgiri: How twin stealth frigates redefine new milestone in India’s naval power

The case of dowry death, Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati has taken a new turn as investigations continue. Nikki Bhati lost her life in New Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Aug 21 after severe burn injuries. It was alleged that she set herself on fire over a dowry demand by her in-laws. However, Nikki's family accused her husband, Vipin Bhati and three others of murdering her. Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is married in the same family, filed a case, and all four members of the Bhati family - Vipin, Nikki's father-in-law, mother-in-law and brother-in-law have been arrested. However, a CCTV video that has now surfaced points to a counter-narrative.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-s-the-mastermind-behind-nikki-s-death-here-s-what-victim-s-father-revealed-in-noida-dowry-case-1756134114775">Who's the 'mastermind' behind Nikki's death? Here's what victim's father revealed in Noida dowry case</a><h2>CCTV video shows Vipin Bhati outside the house</h2>The CCTV video that has now surfaced shows a man in a check shirt and blue trousers - believed to be Vipin. He is seen standing near a white car on the main road at 5:42 pm, along with a boy. He is seen chatting with the boy. At 5:47 pm, a commotion is heard when Vipin suddenly runs towards the house. Moments later, he reappears and is seen getting inside the white car. Vipin's cousin Devendra claimed that the commotion occurred when Nikki allegedly suffered burn injuries due to a cylinder blast in the kitchen. He said that Vipin rushed to take Nikki to the hospital.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-regular-beatings-doused-in-flammable-liquid-5-shocking-details-of-nikki-dowry-murder-case-1756123926185">'Regular beatings, doused in flammable liquid': 5 shocking details of Nikki dowry murder case</a><h2>What has Nikki's sister Kanchan claimed?</h2>The CCTV footage and Vipin's cousin Devendra's statement contradict the version of the incidents claimed by Nikki's sister Kanchan. Kanchan had claimed that Vipin set Nikki on fire with the help of his mother-in-law, Daya. She also said that the seven-year-old was screaming and crying when his mother was set on fire. However, the CCTV video shows the child and the husband outside the house when Nikki was allegedly burnt.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Greater Noida: Accused of murdering his wife Nikki over dowry demands, Vipin Bhati says, &quot;... I have no remorse. I haven&#39;t killed her. She died on her own. Husband and wife often have fights, it is very common...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/YrPFaYARuY">pic.twitter.com/YrPFaYARuY</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959530369809621272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/noida-dowry-case-4th-arrest-made-deceased-nikki-father-in-law-detained-1756113268356/embed">https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/noida-dowry-case-4th-arrest-made-deceased-nikki-father-in-law-detained-1756113268356/embed</a><h2>What police revealed in the Nikki Bhati dowry case?</h2>Police investigating Nikki's alleged murder revealed that her husband, Vipin, was unhappy with her Instagram activity and the beauty parlour she ran with her sister Kanchan. Despite the parlour doing well financially, Vipin reportedly demanded all the earnings be given to his mother and assaulted Nikki when she refused. A major fight over reopening the parlour allegedly led to a violent assault where Nikki was hit on the head and acid was thrown on her. Nikki’s brother, Atul, confirmed the family was aware of the abuse but tried to resolve the issue. Kanchan shared in an Instagram reel that Nikki endured the abuse for the sake of her seven-year-old son, hoping things would improve. She expressed regret that more decisive action wasn't taken in February when Nikki temporarily left Vipin and returned to her parents’ home. A panchayat was held, where Vipin apologized and promised not to harm her again, leading to Nikki’s return.&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/noida-dowry-death-nikki-bhati-allegedly-killed-over-disagreements-over-instagram-reels-reopening-of-parlour-new-details-emerge-1756091851519"> Nikki Bhati allegedly killed over disagreements over Instagram reels? New details emerge</a>&nbsp;

Nikki Bhati died of burn injuries on Aug 21, allegedly over dowry. While her family accuses husband Vipin and in-laws of murder, new CCTV footage shows Vipin outside the house during the incident, contradicting sister Kanchan’s claim that he set Nikki on fire.

The case of dowry death, Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati has taken a new turn as investigations continue. Nikki Bhati lost her life in New Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Aug 21 after severe burn injuries. It was alleged that she set herself on fire over a dowry demand by her in-laws. However, Nikki's family accused her husband, Vipin Bhati and three others of murdering her. Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is married in the same family, filed a case, and all four members of the Bhati family - Vipin, Nikki's father-in-law, mother-in-law and brother-in-law have been arrested. However, a CCTV video that has now surfaced points to a counter-narrative. Read More | Who's the 'mastermind' behind Nikki's death? Here's what victim's father revealed in Noida dowry case CCTV video shows Vipin Bhati outside the house The CCTV video that has now surfaced shows a man in a check shirt and blue trousers - believed to be Vipin. He is seen standing near a white car on the main road at 5:42 pm, along with a boy. He is seen chatting with the boy. At 5:47 pm, a commotion is heard when Vipin suddenly runs towards the house. Moments later, he reappears and is seen getting inside the white car. Vipin's cousin Devendra claimed that the commotion occurred when Nikki allegedly suffered burn injuries due to a cylinder blast in the kitchen. He said that Vipin rushed to take Nikki to the hospital. Read More | 'Regular beatings, doused in flammable liquid': 5 shocking details of Nikki dowry murder case What has Nikki's sister Kanchan claimed? The CCTV footage and Vipin's cousin Devendra's statement contradict the version of the incidents claimed by Nikki's sister Kanchan. Kanchan had claimed that Vipin set Nikki on fire with the help of his mother-in-law, Daya. She also said that the seven-year-old was screaming and crying when his mother was set on fire. However, the CCTV video shows the child and the husband outside the house when Nikki was allegedly burnt.

Nikki Bhati died of burn injuries on Aug 21, allegedly over dowry. While her family accuses husband Vipin and in-laws of murder, new CCTV footage shows Vipin outside the house during the incident, contradicting sister Kanchan’s claim that he set Nikki on fire.

Noida dowry death: Conflicting claims emerge as CCTV video shows husband Vipin outside home when Nikki Bhati was set on fire

After the Noida dowry death case, another incident related to dowry has surfaced from Madhya Pradesh, where a 23-year-old woman saved her life after her husband allegedly tied her up, tortured her, and inserted a heated knife into her mouth when she screamed out in pain. The incident occurred in Khargone district of the state, where the husband, reportedly intoxicated, burned her wife with a hot knife across her arms, torso, and legs, leaving multiple severe burn marks on her body.&nbsp;The victim, identified as Khushboo Pipliya, a resident of Anjar, claimed that her husband began assaulting her after she failed to meet his dowry demands, and he had long expressed his dislike for her after their marriage in February this year. Khushboo managed to free herself on Monday morning after continuous torture. She informed her family using a mobile phone, which was borrowed from a household worker, according to a report by India Today.&nbsp;Later, Khushboo's family rushed her to the district hospital in Awarkachh for treatment and filed a police complaint demanding stringent action against her husband for the brutality. The hospital informed the cops that Khushboo had been severely burned with a heated knife, a senior officer said, India Today TV reported.&nbsp;After the fire was reported, the police reached the hospital and recorded Khushboo's statement. In her statement, she claimed that her husband expressed dislike for her and threatened that she should leave.<h3>Khushboo's husband claims she was ‘Unwanted’</h3>Khushboo stated that her husband, while intoxicated on Sunday night, first thrashed her and then dragged her into the kitchen. He tied her hands and feet and pressed what appeared to be a gun to her head, and burned her with a heated knife.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the torture, he continuously told her that she was unwanted and the marriage had been forced by his parents. While she was being tortured, other family members were reportedly present in the house.&nbsp;Her father, Lokesh Verma, said that after learning about the attack, he sent his younger son to bring her home. The family lodged a complaint at the Mengaon police station, but they were allegedly threatened by some individuals upon arrival. Currently, police have launched an investigation and recorded multiple statements to establish full details of the incident.

The incident occurred in Khargone district of the state, where Khushboo's husband, reportedly intoxicated, burned her with a hot knife across her arms, torso, and legs, and left her with multiple severe burn marks on her body.

After the Noida dowry death case, another incident related to dowry has surfaced from Madhya Pradesh, where a 23-year-old woman saved her life after her husband allegedly tied her up, tortured her, and inserted a heated knife into her mouth when she screamed out in pain. The incident occurred in Khargone district of the state, where the husband, reportedly intoxicated, burned her wife with a hot knife across her arms, torso, and legs, leaving multiple severe burn marks on her body. The victim, identified as Khushboo Pipliya, a resident of Anjar, claimed that her husband began assaulting her after she failed to meet his dowry demands, and he had long expressed his dislike for her after their marriage in February this year. Khushboo managed to free herself on Monday morning after continuous torture. She informed her family using a mobile phone, which was borrowed from a household worker, according to a report by India Today. Later, Khushboo's family rushed her to the district hospital in Awarkachh for treatment and filed a police complaint demanding stringent action against her husband for the brutality. The hospital informed the cops that Khushboo had been severely burned with a heated knife, a senior officer said, India Today TV reported. After the fire was reported, the police reached the hospital and recorded Khushboo's statement. In her statement, she claimed that her husband expressed dislike for her and threatened that she should leave. Khushboo's husband claims she was ‘Unwanted’ Khushboo stated that her husband, while intoxicated on Sunday night, first thrashed her and then dragged her into the kitchen. He tied her hands and feet and pressed what appeared to be a gun to her head, and burned her with a heated knife. During the torture, he continuously told her that she was unwanted and the marriage had been forced by his parents. While she was being tortured, other family members were reportedly present in the house. Her father, Lokesh Verma, said that after learning about the attack, he sent his younger son to bring her home. The family lodged a complaint at the Mengaon police station, but they were allegedly threatened by some individuals upon arrival. Currently, police have launched an investigation and recorded multiple statements to establish full details of the incident.

The incident occurred in Khargone district of the state, where Khushboo's husband, reportedly intoxicated, burned her with a hot knife across her arms, torso, and legs, and left her with multiple severe burn marks on her body.

Noida dowry case echoes: Madhya Pradesh man thrashes wife, puts burning knife in her mouth

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news

‘We’ll come together with India,’ says US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as Trump’s 50% tariffs kick in

Rahul Gandhi backs Trump’s claim of brokering India-Pak ceasefire

CM Omar, LG take stock of situation in flood-hit areas; schools, colleges closed

Nikki Bhati’s family accused of dowry torture by estranged daughter-in-law

'Could continue to strike Pakistan...': Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Op Sindoor

Why are Indian firms picking, paying SpaceX over ISRO to launch satellites?

India voices concern over journalists killed in Gaza hospital attack

Days after Noida case, another woman in UP burnt alive by husband over dowry

3 dead, several feared trapped as apartment building in Mumbai's Virar collapses

J&K floods: 30 killed in landslide near Vaishno Devi; schools shut today

‘Hindu Rashtra does not mean excluding anyone,’ says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

Explore Mumbai’s most famous Ganesh pandals this Ganesh Chaturthi 2025

Schools closed in Jammu, Punjab amid heavy rainfall – IMD issues alert

Modi's ‘Swadeshi’ push can take inspiration from 'Nihonsei' (wow they even sound similar) in Japan, which he's visiting amid Trump tariffs

CM Omar Abdullah briefs Amit Shah on J&K situation; Army, CRPF join rescue ops

‘No ship will be built abroad,’ says Rajnath as Navy inducts 2 stealth frigates

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 wishes, messages, and greetings to share with loved ones

Dream11 lost 95 pc revenue due to online gaming ban. Will it lay off staff?

IMD issues 'Red Alert' as heavy rains hit Delhi-NCR, airlines warn delays

National Dog Day: Delhi's stray dogs caught between love and law | In Pics

9 killed in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, landslide

Delhi records wettest August in over a decade? Know what the IMD data says

J&K's Doda hit by massive flood after sudden cloudburst, several roads closed

INS Udaygiri, Himgiri: How twin stealth frigates redefine India’s naval power

Nikki Bhati dowry death: Video shows husband outside home when she was burnt

Noida dowry case echoes: MP man thrashes wife, puts burning knife in her mouth