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On Monday (August 24), the Supreme Court constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter concerning Vantara Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is a wildlife venture owned by Reliance Foundation. Vantara was accused of illegally acquiring animals from within the country and from countries across the world. They were further accused of mistreating animals in captivity, financial irregularities and money laundering.&nbsp;The team will be spearheaded retired Justice Jasti Chelameswar, f former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Court Justice Raghavendra Chauhan, former Mumbai Police Commissioner Hemant Nagrale, and Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Anish Gupta will be a part of it.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-inaugurates-vantara-wildlife-rescue-centre-in-gujarat-8778081/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-inaugurates-vantara-wildlife-rescue-centre-in-gujarat-8778081/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The bench noted allegations made in the petition lacked supporting material. It highlighted that such a petition should not be entertained. "However, in the wake of the allegations that the statutory authorities or the Courts are either unwilling or incapable of discharging their mandate, more particularly in the absence of verification of correctness of the factual situation, we consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal which may establish the violation, as alleged, if any. Accordingly, we deem it appropriate to direct for constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of respectable persons of impeccable integrity and high repute having long public service," the bench observed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comb-jelly-may-be-earths-oldest-animal-research-594069">Comb jelly from 700 million years ago may be Earth’s oldest animal, says new research</a>&nbsp;According to its website, Vantara is a ‘wildlife rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation center’ that ‘offers a secure and natural environment for the care and recovery of rescued animals’.&nbsp;<h2>Special Investigation Team will probe into the following:</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Acquisition of animals from India and abroad, particularly elephants&nbsp;</li><li>Compliance of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and rules for zoos made thereunder</li><li>International Convention on Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) and compliance with import/export laws and other statutory requirements concerning imports/exports of live animals</li><li>Compliance with standards of animal husbandry, veterinary care, standards of animal welfare, mortalities and causes thereof&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding climatic conditions and allegations concerning the location near an industrial zone&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding the creation of a vanity or private collection, breeding, conservation programs and use of biodiversity resources&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding misutilisation of water and carbon credits&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding allegations of breach of different provisions of law, trade in animals or animal articles, wildlife smuggling etc. as made in the articles/stories/complaints referred to in the petitions as well as generally&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding issues of financial compliance, money laundering etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Complaints regarding any other subject, issue or matter germane to the allegations made in these Petitions.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Vantara releases statement:</h2>&nbsp;While Vantara, in its statement, has mentioned, “We acknowledge the order of the Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law. Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals.”&nbsp;“We will extend full cooperation to the Special Investigation Team and continue our work sincerely, always placing the welfare of animals at the heart of all our efforts,” it added.&nbsp;The centre has further requested that the probe be carried out without any speculation and in the best interest of the animals they are serving.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India has constituted a Special Investigation Team to investigate Reliance Foundation-owned Vantara Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. The centre has been accused of illegally acquiring animals domestically and internationally.

On Monday (August 24), the Supreme Court constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter concerning Vantara Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is a wildlife venture owned by Reliance Foundation. Vantara was accused of illegally acquiring animals from within the country and from countries across the world. They were further accused of mistreating animals in captivity, financial irregularities and money laundering. The team will be spearheaded retired Justice Jasti Chelameswar, f former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Court Justice Raghavendra Chauhan, former Mumbai Police Commissioner Hemant Nagrale, and Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Anish Gupta will be a part of it. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-inaugurates-vantara-wildlife-rescue-centre-in-gujarat-8778081/embed The bench noted allegations made in the petition lacked supporting material. It highlighted that such a petition should not be entertained. "However, in the wake of the allegations that the statutory authorities or the Courts are either unwilling or incapable of discharging their mandate, more particularly in the absence of verification of correctness of the factual situation, we consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal which may establish the violation, as alleged, if any. Accordingly, we deem it appropriate to direct for constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of respectable persons of impeccable integrity and high repute having long public service," the bench observed. Also read: Comb jelly from 700 million years ago may be Earth’s oldest animal, says new research According to its website, Vantara is a ‘wildlife rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation center’ that ‘offers a secure and natural environment for the care and recovery of rescued animals’. Special Investigation Team will probe into the following: Acquisition of animals from India and abroad, particularly elephants Compliance of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and rules for zoos made thereunder International Convention on Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) and compliance with import/export laws and other statutory requirements concerning imports/exports of live animals Compliance with standards of animal husbandry, veterinary care, standards of animal welfare, mortalities and causes thereof Complaints regarding climatic conditions and allegations concerning the location near an industrial zone Complaints regarding the creation of a vanity or private collection, breeding, conservation programs and use of biodiversity resources Complaints regarding misutilisation of water and carbon credits Complaints regarding allegations of breach of different provisions of law, trade in animals or animal articles, wildlife smuggling etc. as made in the articles/stories/complaints referred to in the petitions as well as generally Complaints regarding issues of financial compliance, money laundering etc. Complaints regarding any other subject, issue or matter germane to the allegations made in these Petitions. Vantara releases statement: While Vantara, in its statement, has mentioned, “We acknowledge the order of the Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law. Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals.” “We will extend full cooperation to the Special Investigation Team and continue our work sincerely, always placing the welfare of animals at the heart of all our efforts,” it added. The centre has further requested that the probe be carried out without any speculation and in the best interest of the animals they are serving.

The Supreme Court of India has constituted a Special Investigation Team to investigate Reliance Foundation-owned Vantara Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. The centre has been accused of illegally acquiring animals domestically and internationally.

Supreme Court sets up SIT to investigate Reliance Foundation's Vantara over illegal animal acquisition

As the deadline for US President Donald Trump's additional 25 per cent tariffs on India looms, the Indian Prime Minister has sent a bold 'swadeshi' message. On Monday (Aug 25) he said that businessmen should keep a big board outside their establishments, saying they sell ‘swadeshi’ goods. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the comments while speaking at an event in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. He also reiterated that the country won't compromise on the interests of farmers and small businesses. Invoking Lord Krishna, the PM said that India is 'chakradhari' and that symoblises strength and protection. Amid Trump's tariff threats, PM Modi has been sending strong message to highlight that India won't budge to the pressures created by the US. Trump, on July 31, imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations.Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-2025-pm-narendra-modi-s-big-message-to-us-amid-trump-s-tariff-trade-war-50-percent-tariff-1755228508072">'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war</a><h2>All remarks by PM Modi to highlight India's position on trade war</h2><ul><li>On Aug 25, PM Modi in Ahmedabad, urged citizens to celebrate upcoming festivals like Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, and Diwali by promoting self-reliance. He said that citizens should adopt the mantra of buying only 'Made in India' products. He appealed to people to choose indigenous goods— for decorations and gifts—and encouraged businesses to avoid selling imported items. He also highlighted India's commitment towards farmers, adding, “For Modi, interests of farmers, cattle rearers and small-scale industries are paramount. The pressure on us may increase, but we will bear it all.”</li></ul>Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-nsa-john-bolton-calls-trump-s-tariffs-on-india-enormous-mistake-says-this-about-china-russia-1754720285433">Ex-US NSA John Bolton calls Trump's tariffs on India 'enormous mistake'</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-within-next-50-days-trump-threatens-tariff-on-imported-furniture-1756020561246/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-within-next-50-days-trump-threatens-tariff-on-imported-furniture-1756020561246/embed</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "This is the season of festivals. Now Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, Diwali... all these festivals are coming. These are celebrations of our culture but they should also be celebrations of self-reliance.… <a href="https://t.co/6xzsK0ybIZ">pic.twitter.com/6xzsK0ybIZ</a>— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959985858033156194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<ul><li>In the first response to tariff tensions, PM Modi, on Aug 7, while speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, said that he won't compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen, even if he has to pay a price for it. “For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know personally, I will have to pay a heavy price for it, but I am ready for it. Today, India is ready for the country's farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers...”</li></ul>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ready to pay heavy price: Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> says won't compromise interests of farmers, fishermen in firm stand amid Trump tariff threats Source: ANI <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/zhv1dwdEZx">pic.twitter.com/zhv1dwdEZx</a>— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1953319329291739598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<ul><li>On Aug 15, in his Independence Day speech, PM Modi sent a strong message reaffirming his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community. He declared that he would oppose any policy that poses a threat to their livelihoods, saying, “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them.” PM Modi also emphasised the need for India to strengthen itself by producing high-quality, affordable goods, guided by the principle of “Daam kam, dum zyaada” (lower cost, higher value). Earlier, after Trump imposed an additional tariff of 25 per cent, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called it “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”. It added that India takes decisions about trade based on “its national interests.”</li></ul>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Bharat ke kisan, machuware, pashupalak se judi kisi bhi ahitkaari neeti ke aage Modi deewar banke khada hai..." "Modi is standing like a wall in front of any policy against the interest of our farmers, fishermen, cattle… <a href="https://t.co/vHdRWR1hkP">pic.twitter.com/vHdRWR1hkP</a>— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1956194348204200286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trump-threatening-10-tariff-on-brics-after-group-called-iran-strikes-violation-of-international-law-here-s-the-truth-1751876328339">Trump's 10% tariff warning a response to BRICS for calling Iran strikes 'violation of international law'? Here's the TRUTH</a>&nbsp;

Amid US tariff hikes, PM Modi urged citizens to support 'swadeshi' goods, especially during festivals, promoting self-reliance. He emphasized protecting farmers and small businesses, asserting India won't yield to US pressure and will prioritize national interests.

As the deadline for US President Donald Trump's additional 25 per cent tariffs on India looms, the Indian Prime Minister has sent a bold 'swadeshi' message. On Monday (Aug 25) he said that businessmen should keep a big board outside their establishments, saying they sell ‘swadeshi’ goods. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the comments while speaking at an event in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. He also reiterated that the country won't compromise on the interests of farmers and small businesses. Invoking Lord Krishna, the PM said that India is 'chakradhari' and that symoblises strength and protection. Amid Trump's tariff threats, PM Modi has been sending strong message to highlight that India won't budge to the pressures created by the US. Trump, on July 31, imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations. Read More | 'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war All remarks by PM Modi to highlight India's position on trade war On Aug 25, PM Modi in Ahmedabad, urged citizens to celebrate upcoming festivals like Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, and Diwali by promoting self-reliance. He said that citizens should adopt the mantra of buying only 'Made in India' products. He appealed to people to choose indigenous goods— for decorations and gifts—and encouraged businesses to avoid selling imported items. He also highlighted India's commitment towards farmers, adding, “For Modi, interests of farmers, cattle rearers and small-scale industries are paramount. The pressure on us may increase, but we will bear it all.” Read More | Ex-US NSA John Bolton calls Trump's tariffs on India 'enormous mistake' https://www.wionews.com/videos/-within-next-50-days-trump-threatens-tariff-on-imported-furniture-1756020561246/embed

Amid US tariff hikes, PM Modi urged citizens to support 'swadeshi' goods, especially during festivals, promoting self-reliance. He emphasised protecting farmers and small businesses, asserting India won't yield to US pressure and will prioritise national interests.

PM Modi's 'swadeshi' push before Trump's additional tariff kicks in: Indian PM's three big statements on US tariff war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended his gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on Ukraine's Independence Day.&nbsp;"We appreciate India’s dedication to peace and dialogue. Now, as the entire world strives to end this horrible war with dignity and lasting peace, we count on India’s contribution," Zelensky wrote on X.&nbsp;"Every decision that strengthens diplomacy leads to better security not only in Europe, but also in the Indo-Pacific and beyond," he added by sharing the image of the letter by PM Modi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, for the warm greetings on Ukraine’s Independence Day. We appreciate India’s dedication to peace and dialogue. Now, as the entire world strives to end this horrible war with dignity and lasting peace, we count on India’s contribution. Every… <a href="https://t.co/FtwkXUhtEH">pic.twitter.com/FtwkXUhtEH</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1960047627422060792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In his letter, the Indian PM wrote, "I warmly recall my visit to Kyiv in August last year, and note the progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral relations since then."&nbsp;PM Modi repeated India’s familiar position of pushing for dialogue rather than force. "India has always stood on the side of peace. India remains committed to extending all possible support for sincere efforts seeking an early, abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict," he said. Zelensky's post came after Ukraine's Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, confirmed that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to visit India soon.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-paid-zero-in-9bn-intel-deal-despite-critics-fury-1756134323490">'Why are stupid people unhappy?': Trump insists he ‘paid zero’ in $9bn Intel deal despitecritics’fury</a>&nbsp;"The Indian Prime Minister invited Zelensky to come to India. Both sides are working on this. We expect President Zelensky to be in India, definitely. It will be a great achievement in our bilateral relationship. We are trying to agree on a precise date. We expect more Indian involvement in the peace-building process in Ukraine, definitely in the political negotiation with the Russians," Polishchuk said while speaking to ANI on Ukraine's National Flag Day.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also emphasised the US as a key ally and reiterated Ukraine’s readiness for dialogue following the Alaska meeting. Earlier, President Zelensky extended Independence Day greetings to India, expressing hope for India’s role in promoting global peace and ending the war with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended his gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on Ukraine Independence Day.



Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended his gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on Ukraine's Independence Day. "We appreciate India’s dedication to peace and dialogue. Now, as the entire world strives to end this horrible war with dignity and lasting peace, we count on India’s contribution," Zelensky wrote on X. "Every decision that strengthens diplomacy leads to better security not only in Europe, but also in the Indo-Pacific and beyond," he added by sharing the image of the letter by PM Modi.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended his gratitude to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on Ukraine's Independence Day.&nbsp;

Zelensky thanks PM Modi, says Ukraine counts on India for support in war with Russia

In what is touted as a first in the country and among the largest globally, the Indian Government will be hosting India Maritime Week (IMW) in October 2025, an event that will see participation of leaders from 60 nations, CEOs of maritime-sector firms, stakeholders, professionals, and industry bodies, among others. According to the Indian government, the event will facilitate an investment opportunity of over $114 billion, or Rs. 10 lakh crores.&nbsp;&nbsp;Elaborating on the event, TK Ramachandran, Indian Shipping and Ports Secretary, said that the Indian Maritime Week to be hosted in Mumbai is modelled after similar global events hosted by London, Singapore, Norway, among others. He said that the event would focus on ports, shipping, shipbuilding, seafarers, green shipping, fuel, cruise, inland waterways, heritage, financing, insurance, etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;Outlining how the India Maritime Week 2025 was conceptualised, Sunil Paliwal, Chairperson, Chennai Port Trust, said that the Maritime India Summit 2016 was India’s first large-scale maritime-focused event, and it saw the participation of 40 nations. The summit supported the launch of the Sagarmala Programme and facilitated MoUs worth billions in investment. Sagarmala Project is India’s flagship programme for port-led development, launched in 2015 to harness the country’s 7,500 km coastline and waterways to reduce logistics costs, modernise port infrastructure, enhance port connectivity, promote coastal industrialisation, and develop coastal communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH: U.S. Debt Crisis: $1 Trillion Added in 48 Days&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-debt-crisis-1-trillion-added-in-48-days-1756143875200/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-debt-crisis-1-trillion-added-in-48-days-1756143875200/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maritime India Summit 2021 was held virtually due to the pandemic but achieved record participation with 1.9 lakh attendees from over 100 countries. The Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) 2023 expanded India’s maritime vision globally with a hybrid event format. It focused on green corridors, digitalisation, autonomous shipping, and port-led development.&nbsp;During the previous Maritime India Summits, Chennai Port signed over 30 MoUs worth over Rs. 8000 crores. These MoUs were signed for the creation of a bunkering hub, capacity expansion through dredging, construction of tank farms, a multimodal logistics park, skill development with NTCPWC, Ocean Research, development of Sewage Treatment Plants, etc.&nbsp;Highlighting the key achievements of the Shipping and Ports Ministry over the past decade, the secretary said that Indian ports’ cargo handling capacity has risen from 1,500 Million Metric Tonnes per Annum (MMTPA) in 2014-15 to 2,800 MMTPA in 2024-25. Further, he cited that there was a drastic jump in cargo handled via inland waterways—from 7 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 133 million tonnes in 2024-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the government, India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled for October 27th-31st in Mumbai, is the nation’s premier platform to showcase progress across the maritime sector, including ports, shipping, and waterways. The event will convene global and domestic leaders to foster dialogue, innovation, and policy initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and future-ready maritime ecosystem. Featuring thematic sessions, business forums, exhibitions, and high-level dialogues, IMW 2025 will catalyse advancing India’s maritime ambitions.

The secretary said that in last 10 years, Indian ports’ cargo handling capacity has risen from 1,500 Million Metric Tonnes per Annum (MMTPA) in 2014-15 to 2,800 MMTPA in 2024-25, while cargo handled via inland waterways rose from 7 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 133 million tonnes in 2024-25.

In what is touted as a first in the country and among the largest globally, the Indian Government will be hosting India Maritime Week (IMW) in October 2025, an event that will see participation of leaders from 60 nations, CEOs of maritime-sector firms, stakeholders, professionals, and industry bodies, among others. According to the Indian government, the event will facilitate an investment opportunity of over $114 billion, or Rs. 10 lakh crores. Elaborating on the event, TK Ramachandran, Indian Shipping and Ports Secretary, said that the Indian Maritime Week to be hosted in Mumbai is modelled after similar global events hosted by London, Singapore, Norway, among others. He said that the event would focus on ports, shipping, shipbuilding, seafarers, green shipping, fuel, cruise, inland waterways, heritage, financing, insurance, etc. Outlining how the India Maritime Week 2025 was conceptualised, Sunil Paliwal, Chairperson, Chennai Port Trust, said that the Maritime India Summit 2016 was India’s first large-scale maritime-focused event, and it saw the participation of 40 nations. The summit supported the launch of the Sagarmala Programme and facilitated MoUs worth billions in investment. Sagarmala Project is India’s flagship programme for port-led development, launched in 2015 to harness the country’s 7,500 km coastline and waterways to reduce logistics costs, modernise port infrastructure, enhance port connectivity, promote coastal industrialisation, and develop coastal communities. WATCH: U.S. Debt Crisis: $1 Trillion Added in 48 Days https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-debt-crisis-1-trillion-added-in-48-days-1756143875200/embed The Maritime India Summit 2021 was held virtually due to the pandemic but achieved record participation with 1.9 lakh attendees from over 100 countries. The Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) 2023 expanded India’s maritime vision globally with a hybrid event format. It focused on green corridors, digitalisation, autonomous shipping, and port-led development. During the previous Maritime India Summits, Chennai Port signed over 30 MoUs worth over Rs. 8000 crores. These MoUs were signed for the creation of a bunkering hub, capacity expansion through dredging, construction of tank farms, a multimodal logistics park, skill development with NTCPWC, Ocean Research, development of Sewage Treatment Plants, etc. Highlighting the key achievements of the Shipping and Ports Ministry over the past decade, the secretary said that Indian ports’ cargo handling capacity has risen from 1,500 Million Metric Tonnes per Annum (MMTPA) in 2014-15 to 2,800 MMTPA in 2024-25. Further, he cited that there was a drastic jump in cargo handled via inland waterways—from 7 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 133 million tonnes in 2024-25. According to the government, India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled for October 27th-31st in Mumbai, is the nation’s premier platform to showcase progress across the maritime sector, including ports, shipping, and waterways. The event will convene global and domestic leaders to foster dialogue, innovation, and policy initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and future-ready maritime ecosystem. Featuring thematic sessions, business forums, exhibitions, and high-level dialogues, IMW 2025 will catalyse advancing India’s maritime ambitions.

The secretary said that in last 10 years, Indian ports’ cargo handling capacity has risen from 1,500 Million Metric Tonnes per Annum (MMTPA) in 2014-15 to 2,800 MMTPA in 2024-25, while cargo handled via inland waterways rose from 7 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 133 million tonnes in 2024-25.

60 nations to take part in India Maritime Week; $114bn investment opportunity, says govt

Buying a Rolls Royce luxury car just remains a dream for many and is a significant milestone for even the most wealthy businessmen, however, there are some ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) who have multiple Rolls Royce motorcars. Recently, in a mind-numbing development, one such UHNI from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, took delivery of not just one but three Rolls-Royce vehicles in a single day. The lineup included a Cullinan Series II, a Ghost Series II, and the all-electric Spectre EV—together valued at approximately a staggering ₹27 crore. And the filthy rich individual is Sanjay Ghodawat.&nbsp;The Supercar Club India shared the photograph showing the three Rolls Royce cars parked next to each other on their Instagram page. In the image, Sanjay Ghodawat, the owner of these three Rolls Royce cars, is also seen standing in the middle. The first vehicle is the Cullinan Series II, then there is the Ghost Series II, while the Spectre EV is parked at the end.&nbsp;<h2>Who is this UHNI Sanjay Ghodawat?</h2>&nbsp;For the unaware, Sanjay Ghodawat is the Chairman of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG). His company has multiple businesses in various sectors including energy, aviation, consumer goods, food processing, and education. He is also the Chairman of Sanjay Ghodawat University.&nbsp;The first vehicle from the left in the picture is the Rolls Royce Cullinan Series II, considered the most luxurious SUV in the world. Ghodawat has chosen the classy shade of Iguazu Blue for his Cullinan Series II. It is the second-generation model, with slimmer LED headlights and new L-shaped LED DRLs.&nbsp;

Rolls Royce Cullinan Series II

&nbsp;&nbsp;It also has a slightly tweaked front grille, refreshed front and rear bumpers, and new alloy wheels. On the inside, it has a full-width glass panel called the “Gallery” and the new Rolls Royce Spirit infotainment system. A 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 petrol motor powers the Cullinan Series II, making 571 bhp and 850 Nm of torque.&nbsp;The transmission duties are handled by an 8-speed automatic gearbox, and it has an all-wheel-drive system. The standard Cullinan Series II is priced at Rs 10.50 crore (ex-showroom), while the Black Badge variant of this SUV is priced at Rs 12.25 crore (ex-showroom).&nbsp;The second luxury model in the middle is the Rolls Royce Ghost Series II, the second-generation Ghost’s facelifted iteration. Its pricing starts at Rs 8.95 crore. Ghodawat has picked the classy shade of Bohemian Red for this sedan that comes with redesigned headlights, refreshed bumpers, and new alloy wheels.&nbsp;

Rolls Royce Ghost Series II

&nbsp;&nbsp;The same 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 petrol motor powers the Ghost Series II also, but here it produces 563 bhp and 850 Nm of torque.&nbsp;WATCH: Chinese Property Giant Evergrande Delisted After Spectacular Fall&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-property-giant-evergrande-delisted-after-spectacular-fall-1756133958470/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-property-giant-evergrande-delisted-after-spectacular-fall-1756133958470/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The last vehicle in the image that ignites further envy is the Rolls Royce Spectre EV, the luxury brand’s first and only electric vehicle available for sale. This coupe EV starts at Rs 7.5 crore, and the billionaire has chosen the classy shade of Imperial Jade (Green). Spectre EV has a massive 102 kWh battery pack, which offers a range of 530 km.&nbsp;

Rolls Royce Spectre EV

&nbsp;It has a dual-motor setup that is capable of pushing out 585 bhp and 900 Nm of torque. Despite being heavy, the EV can reach from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds. Actor Ram Charan also owns this electric coupe from Rolls Royce.

The Supercar Club India shared the photograph showing the three Rolls Royce cars parked next to each other on their Instagram page, with Sanjay Ghodawat, their owner, standing in the middle. The first car is the Cullinan Series II, then there is Ghost Series II, and Spectre EV parked last.

Buying a Rolls Royce luxury car just remains a dream for many and is a significant milestone for even the most wealthy businessmen, however, there are some ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) who have multiple Rolls Royce motorcars. Recently, in a mind-numbing development, one such UHNI from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, took delivery of not just one but three Rolls-Royce vehicles in a single day. The lineup included a Cullinan Series II, a Ghost Series II, and the all-electric Spectre EV—together valued at approximately a staggering ₹27 crore. And the filthy rich individual is Sanjay Ghodawat. The Supercar Club India shared the photograph showing the three Rolls Royce cars parked next to each other on their Instagram page. In the image, Sanjay Ghodawat, the owner of these three Rolls Royce cars, is also seen standing in the middle. The first vehicle is the Cullinan Series II, then there is the Ghost Series II, while the Spectre EV is parked at the end. Who is this UHNI Sanjay Ghodawat? For the unaware, Sanjay Ghodawat is the Chairman of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG). His company has multiple businesses in various sectors including energy, aviation, consumer goods, food processing, and education. He is also the Chairman of Sanjay Ghodawat University. The first vehicle from the left in the picture is the Rolls Royce Cullinan Series II, considered the most luxurious SUV in the world. Ghodawat has chosen the classy shade of Iguazu Blue for his Cullinan Series II. It is the second-generation model, with slimmer LED headlights and new L-shaped LED DRLs.

The Supercar Club India shared the photograph showing the three Rolls Royce cars parked next to each other on their Instagram page, with Sanjay Ghodawat, their owner, standing in the middle. The first car is the Cullinan Series II, then there is Ghost Series II, and Spectre EV parked last.

Indian business magnate buys three Rolls-Royce luxury cars in a day

Days after Nikki Bhati's horrific murder in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida, the victim's father has broken the silence. The incident has sparked criticism and concerns in India as the 28-year-old Nikki was set on fire by her in-laws over dowry demands.&nbsp;Nikki's father, Bhikari Singh Payla, while speaking to Indian news agency ANI, said that due to "social norms" and "community guidelines", he agreed to dowry, which is why his daughter had to go back to that household, where they were beating them.&nbsp;The victim's father also blamed Nikki's mother-in-law, calling her "the mastermind of the entire incident". Nikki's mother-in-law was arrested after the incident.&nbsp;“It is the duty of the mother, as well as the father, to ensure the children stay together. But she, rather than making them stay together, upset their relationship," he told ANI.&nbsp;Nikki's family said that they had also given "gifts" such as an SUV, a motorcycle and gold to her husband, Vipin, at the time of their marriage in 2016.&nbsp;He added that despite giving all this, Vipin and the in-laws wanted more and kept torturing her for that. The victim's father said that recently, her demand to open a beauty parlour and post videos on social media had led to torture.&nbsp;Despite a video going viral showing Vipin setting his wife on fire, his family has been claiming that Nikki "died on her own".&nbsp;He has now demanded instant justice for his daughter, asking for “Baba ka bulldozer” from UP CM Yogi Adityanath to demolish the accused family's home and urged PM Narendra Modi and the courts for the death penalty.<h2>Nikki dowry death case</h2>Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said.&nbsp;Following this, four people, including Vipin, Nikita's mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, have been arrested in connection with the case.&nbsp;Nikki tried to insist that her in-laws let her open a parlour, but Vipin got furious and told her that it is not allowed. The police said that he doused her with flammable liquid and set her on fire inside their home. &nbsp;Later, she died in a Delhi hospital.

The victim's father also blamed Nikki's mother-in-law, calling her "the mastermind of the entire incident". Nikki's mother-in-law was arrested after the incident.

Days after Nikki Bhati's horrific murder in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida, the victim's father has broken the silence. The incident has sparked criticism and concerns in India as the 28-year-old Nikki was set on fire by her in-laws over dowry demands. Nikki's father, Bhikari Singh Payla, while speaking to Indian news agency ANI, said that due to "social norms" and "community guidelines", he agreed to dowry, which is why his daughter had to go back to that household, where they were beating them. The victim's father also blamed Nikki's mother-in-law, calling her "the mastermind of the entire incident". Nikki's mother-in-law was arrested after the incident. “It is the duty of the mother, as well as the father, to ensure the children stay together. But she, rather than making them stay together, upset their relationship," he told ANI. Nikki's family said that they had also given "gifts" such as an SUV, a motorcycle and gold to her husband, Vipin, at the time of their marriage in 2016. He added that despite giving all this, Vipin and the in-laws wanted more and kept torturing her for that. The victim's father said that recently, her demand to open a beauty parlour and post videos on social media had led to torture. Despite a video going viral showing Vipin setting his wife on fire, his family has been claiming that Nikki "died on her own". He has now demanded instant justice for his daughter, asking for “Baba ka bulldozer” from UP CM Yogi Adityanath to demolish the accused family's home and urged PM Narendra Modi and the courts for the death penalty. Nikki dowry death case Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said. Following this, four people, including Vipin, Nikita's mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, have been arrested in connection with the case. Nikki tried to insist that her in-laws let her open a parlour, but Vipin got furious and told her that it is not allowed. The police said that he doused her with flammable liquid and set her on fire inside their home. Later, she died in a Delhi hospital.

The victim's father also blamed Nikki's mother-in-law, calling her "the mastermind of the entire incident". Nikki's mother-in-law was arrested after the incident.

Who's the 'mastermind' behind Nikki's death? Here's what victim's father revealed in Noida dowry case

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that his government will not succumb to any amount of pressure and will safeguard the interests of the country’s farmers, small entrepreneurs, and cattle-rearers. The PM issued the strong statement from Ahmedabad in his home state of Gujarat just two days before the Trump tariffs come into effect, indicating the government’s intent of not buckling to any pressure as India and the US negotiate a trade deal. Though the PM did not name the United States or its president, the reference was all too obvious, as he drew attention to the politics driven by economic self-interest in the world.&nbsp;“All of you are witnessing the kind of politics driven by economic self-interest that is happening in the world today. From this land of Ahmedabad, I would like to say to my small entrepreneurs, to the shopkeepers, to the farmers and cattle rearers. For Modi, your interest is paramount. My government will not allow any harm to come to small entrepreneurs, to farmers, or to cattle-rearers. No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand,” PM Modi said.&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> | Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;Today in the world, everyone is busy doing politics based on economic interests. From this land of Ahmedabad, I will tell my small entrepreneurs, my small shopkeeper brothers and sisters, my farmer brothers and… <a href="https://t.co/aYGcdyiEPs">pic.twitter.com/aYGcdyiEPs</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959973867494990104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The strong-worded remark comes just two days before Trump’s 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods comes into effect from August 27.<h2>‘25 crore people have come out of poverty in India in the last 11 years’</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also highlighted the fact that about 25 crore people have come out of poverty in India in the last 11 years. “It’s a miracle for the world and a point of discussion for the economies across the globe,” Modi added while referring to the progress and growth of India, which Trump had called a “dead economy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | In the last 11 years, 25 crore people have come out of poverty. It’s a miracle for the world and a point of discussion for the economies across the globe: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in Ahmedabad<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModiInGujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModiInGujarat</a> <a href="https://t.co/kRk6S8UjaX">pic.twitter.com/kRk6S8UjaX</a>&mdash; DD News (@DDNewslive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive/status/1959982743665754344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on India and an additional unspecified penalty on the sale and purchase of Russian oil. India has condemned the announcement and dubbed Trump’s tariffs as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.”&nbsp;<h2>New Delhi-Washington ties take a hit after Trump’s tariffs</h2>&nbsp;Since US President Donald Trump hiked tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent by imposing an additional 25 per cent penalty for India’s crude oil purchase from Russia, New Delhi and Washington relations have taken a hit.Trump accuses India of indirectly funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine through oil imports to justify his tariffs.India started buying Russian oil at cheaper rates after Western nations sanctioned Moscow following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, speaking in Delhi on Saturday, mocked Washington’s stance.“It’s ironic for a pro-business American administration to accuse others of doing business,” he quipped when asked about the US criticism.In another swipe, Jaishankar said, “If you don’t like Indian oil or refined products, don’t buy them. Nobody is forcing you. But Europe buys, America buys. So if you have a problem, just stop buying.”

While the US is critical of India's ties with Russia, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently visited Moscow to boost the bilateral relations, while PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have held two telephonic conversations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that his government will not succumb to any amount of pressure and will safeguard the interests of the country’s farmers, small entrepreneurs, and cattle-rearers. The PM issued the strong statement from Ahmedabad in his home state of Gujarat just two days before the Trump tariffs come into effect, indicating the government’s intent of not buckling to any pressure as India and the US negotiate a trade deal. Though the PM did not name the United States or its president, the reference was all too obvious, as he drew attention to the politics driven by economic self-interest in the world. “All of you are witnessing the kind of politics driven by economic self-interest that is happening in the world today. From this land of Ahmedabad, I would like to say to my small entrepreneurs, to the shopkeepers, to the farmers and cattle rearers. For Modi, your interest is paramount. My government will not allow any harm to come to small entrepreneurs, to farmers, or to cattle-rearers. No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand,” PM Modi said.

While the US is critical of India's ties with Russia, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently visited Moscow to boost the bilateral relations, while PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have held two telephonic conversations.

‘Interests of our farmers, small business owners paramount,’ asserts PM Modi 2 days before Trump tariffs come into effect

A 20-year-old married woman was murdered by her lover in a lodge in the Mysuru district of Karnataka after a quarrel broke out between them. The accused allegedly killed her by forcing a stick of explosives into her mouth and setting it off. The incident took place at Bherya village in Saligrama taluk on Monday. The accused initially attempted to mislead others by claiming that a mobile phone blast had caused her death.The victim, Rakshita, a resident of Gerasanahalli in Hunsur taluk, was married to a migrant worker in Kerala but was also in a relationship with the accused, Siddaraju, from Bettadapura village in Periyapatna taluk.Local police said the couple had checked into a lodge when an argument broke out between them.&nbsp;&nbsp;When a fight broke out between them, the man allegedly put a stick of explosives in her mouth and set it off using a trigger that is used to explode gelatin sticks in quarries, police said.&nbsp;In a video from the crime scene, the woman’s body was seen on a bed with the lower part of her face completely blown up while there was a pool of blood on the floor.&nbsp;After the incident, the accused tried to mislead the employees of the lodge by claiming that the woman had died after her mobile phone exploded, but he was caught while attempting to flee and was handed over to the police.Saligrama Police took Siddaraju into custody. An investigation into the case is underway.&nbsp;Mysuru Superintendent of Police (SP) Vishnuvardhana N confirmed the arrest. “The victim was married to someone working in Kerala but was in a relationship with the accused. He used a chemical powder combination to kill her. The substance has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for examination,” he said a per India Today report.

The accused tried to mislead the employees of the lodge after the incident by claiming that the woman had died after her mobile phone exploded, but he was caught while attempting to flee and handed over to the police.

A 20-year-old married woman was murdered by her lover in a lodge in the Mysuru district of Karnataka after a quarrel broke out between them. The accused allegedly killed her by forcing a stick of explosives into her mouth and setting it off. The incident took place at Bherya village in Saligrama taluk on Monday. The accused initially attempted to mislead others by claiming that a mobile phone blast had caused her death. The victim, Rakshita, a resident of Gerasanahalli in Hunsur taluk, was married to a migrant worker in Kerala but was also in a relationship with the accused, Siddaraju, from Bettadapura village in Periyapatna taluk. Local police said the couple had checked into a lodge when an argument broke out between them. When a fight broke out between them, the man allegedly put a stick of explosives in her mouth and set it off using a trigger that is used to explode gelatin sticks in quarries, police said. In a video from the crime scene, the woman’s body was seen on a bed with the lower part of her face completely blown up while there was a pool of blood on the floor. After the incident, the accused tried to mislead the employees of the lodge by claiming that the woman had died after her mobile phone exploded, but he was caught while attempting to flee and was handed over to the police. Saligrama Police took Siddaraju into custody. An investigation into the case is underway. Mysuru Superintendent of Police (SP) Vishnuvardhana N confirmed the arrest. “The victim was married to someone working in Kerala but was in a relationship with the accused. He used a chemical powder combination to kill her. The substance has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for examination,” he said a per India Today report.

The accused tried to mislead the employees of the lodge after the incident by claiming that the woman had died after her mobile phone exploded, but he was caught while attempting to flee and handed over to the police.

Mysuru shocker: Lover puts stick of explosives in woman’s mouth, kills her after fight

Russia is looking to hire more Indian workers as it is currently dealing with a labour shortage, India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar told Russian news agency TASS on Saturday. He stressed the need for manpower in Moscow and noted that India has skilled manpower. Kumar said that the Russian machinery and electronics industries are hiring Indians.&nbsp;"At a broader level, there is a manpower requirement in Russia, and India has skilled manpower. So at present, within the Russian regulations, framework of Russian regulations, laws and quotas, the companies are hiring Indians," Kumar said. &nbsp;&nbsp;He said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.&nbsp;"Most of the people who have come are in the construction and textile sector, but the number of people interested in hiring Indians in the machinery and electronics segments is growing," the Indian envoy said. &nbsp;&nbsp;"When people come and leave, they need consular services to extend passports, childbirth, say for example, and loss of passport, and those kinds, basically consular services," he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, the Indian embassy and consulates are starting to deal with the hike in incoming workers by opening a new Consulate General in Yekaterinburg.&nbsp;Notably, the number of Indian workers has surged in Russia in recent years, with 5,480 getting work permits in 2021 to 36,208 in 2024, according to think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF).<h2>India hits back at Trump tariffs</h2>India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar also hit back at Trump tariffs, saying that India will continue buying oil from wherever it gets the "best deal" and "take measures" to protect its national interest. &nbsp;&nbsp;Calling it "unfair, unreasonable and unjustified", Kumar said that India's energy policy aims to secure reliable supplies for its citizens and that its cooperation with Russia and other countries has contributed to global oil market stability.&nbsp;This comes after US President Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he later doubled, making it a total of 50 per cent, citing several reasons, including India buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;"First of all, we have clearly stated that our objective is energy security of 1.4 billion people of India and India's cooperation with Russia, as of several other countries, has helped to bring about stability in the global oil market. So the US decision is unfair, unreasonable and unjustified," he told TASS.

The envoy said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.

Russia is looking to hire more Indian workers as it is currently dealing with a labour shortage, India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar told Russian news agency TASS on Saturday. He stressed the need for manpower in Moscow and noted that India has skilled manpower. Kumar said that the Russian machinery and electronics industries are hiring Indians. "At a broader level, there is a manpower requirement in Russia, and India has skilled manpower. So at present, within the Russian regulations, framework of Russian regulations, laws and quotas, the companies are hiring Indians," Kumar said. He said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing. "Most of the people who have come are in the construction and textile sector, but the number of people interested in hiring Indians in the machinery and electronics segments is growing," the Indian envoy said. "When people come and leave, they need consular services to extend passports, childbirth, say for example, and loss of passport, and those kinds, basically consular services," he added. Moreover, the Indian embassy and consulates are starting to deal with the hike in incoming workers by opening a new Consulate General in Yekaterinburg. Notably, the number of Indian workers has surged in Russia in recent years, with 5,480 getting work permits in 2021 to 36,208 in 2024, according to think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF). India hits back at Trump tariffs India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar also hit back at Trump tariffs, saying that India will continue buying oil from wherever it gets the "best deal" and "take measures" to protect its national interest. Calling it "unfair, unreasonable and unjustified", Kumar said that India's energy policy aims to secure reliable supplies for its citizens and that its cooperation with Russia and other countries has contributed to global oil market stability. This comes after US President Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he later doubled, making it a total of 50 per cent, citing several reasons, including India buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine. "First of all, we have clearly stated that our objective is energy security of 1.4 billion people of India and India's cooperation with Russia, as of several other countries, has helped to bring about stability in the global oil market. So the US decision is unfair, unreasonable and unjustified," he told TASS.

The envoy said that most Indians in Russia are working in the construction and textile sectors, adding that demand is, however, increasing.

Indian manpower needed in Russia? Moscow seeks to hire Indians amid need of skilled workers

Nikki dowry murder: The shocking details have emerged from the dowry death case of Nikki Bhati, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida, who was killed by her in-laws earlier this month. This has led to widespread attention and criticism all across the nation as the woman's husband set her on fire.&nbsp;Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said.&nbsp;Following this, four people, including Vipin, Nikita's mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, have been arrested in connection with the case.<h2>5 shocking facts about the murder case</h2><h3>Abused for years</h3> Nikki and her sister Kanchan were both married in the same family in 2016. Both the sisters endured physical abuse, regular beatings, dowry demands and sabotage all these years. However, Nikki came back to her home multiple times after being beaten, but her family convinced her to return each time, according to reports.<h3>Doused her in flammable liquid, set her on fire</h3>Nikki tried to insist that her in-laws let her open a parlour, but Vipin got furious and told her that it is not allowed. The police said that he doused her with flammable liquid and set her on fire inside their home. &nbsp;Later, she died in a Delhi hospital.&nbsp;"Vipin told her that in their family, posting reels on Instagram and running a parlour were not allowed. The issue turned ugly, and he started assaulting her,” Kasna station house officer Dharmendra Shukla said.<h3>Murder recorded on video</h3>Apparently, Nikki's murder was recorded in the video, after which the clips were shared on social media, showing Vipin pouring liquid on Nikki as she sat helplessly on the floor. Another video showed him assaulting Nikki, and later, Nikki was engulfed in flames.&nbsp;The family claimed that Nikki's sister, who was also present during the incident, recorded the videos intentionally.&nbsp;<h3>Nikki's family stayed away from speaking up</h3>The victim's family did not speak up about the incident, but later her brother Vicky said that they had kept quiet for years to avoid being shamed socially, but now they want the whole Bhati family in jail.<h3>Final trigger</h3>On August 21, Nikki told her husband, Vipin, that she wanted to reopen her beauty parlour with her sister. This comes after the dowry dispute the couple was involved in. They used to fight frequently as Vipin always objected to letting her work and make videos on Instagram.&nbsp;

Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said.

Nikki dowry murder: The shocking details have emerged from the dowry death case of Nikki Bhati, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida, who was killed by her in-laws earlier this month. This has led to widespread attention and criticism all across the nation as the woman's husband set her on fire. Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said. Following this, four people, including Vipin, Nikita's mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, have been arrested in connection with the case. 5 shocking facts about the murder case Abused for years Nikki and her sister Kanchan were both married in the same family in 2016. Both the sisters endured physical abuse, regular beatings, dowry demands and sabotage all these years. However, Nikki came back to her home multiple times after being beaten, but her family convinced her to return each time, according to reports. Doused her in flammable liquid, set her on fire Nikki tried to insist that her in-laws let her open a parlour, but Vipin got furious and told her that it is not allowed. The police said that he doused her with flammable liquid and set her on fire inside their home. Later, she died in a Delhi hospital. "Vipin told her that in their family, posting reels on Instagram and running a parlour were not allowed. The issue turned ugly, and he started assaulting her,” Kasna station house officer Dharmendra Shukla said. Murder recorded on video Apparently, Nikki's murder was recorded in the video, after which the clips were shared on social media, showing Vipin pouring liquid on Nikki as she sat helplessly on the floor. Another video showed him assaulting Nikki, and later, Nikki was engulfed in flames. The family claimed that Nikki's sister, who was also present during the incident, recorded the videos intentionally. Nikki's family stayed away from speaking up The victim's family did not speak up about the incident, but later her brother Vicky said that they had kept quiet for years to avoid being shamed socially, but now they want the whole Bhati family in jail. Final trigger On August 21, Nikki told her husband, Vipin, that she wanted to reopen her beauty parlour with her sister. This comes after the dowry dispute the couple was involved in. They used to fight frequently as Vipin always objected to letting her work and make videos on Instagram.

Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, set her ablaze allegedly over an altercation over her desire to post reels on social media, and also because she wanted to open a beauty parlour she used to run, the police said.

'Regular beatings, doused in flammable liquid': 5 shocking details of Nikki dowry murder case

Heavy rainfall and floods have caused widespread devastation across Himachal Pradesh, severely impacting roads, electricity, and water supply in several districts. Revenue, Horticulture and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi on Monday said the monsoon remained "very active" over the last 24 hours, particularly affecting districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti."In the past 24 hours, the monsoon has been very active. This has especially impacted the Chamba district, parts of the Kangra district, some areas of Mandi, Shimla, and even the Lahaul-Spiti. There has been heavy damage at many places, and Chamba has suffered significant losses. Roads have been blocked as well," Negi said."As of this morning, 625 roads are blocked, including three national highways. More than 1,500 distribution transformers have been affected. Water supply schemes have suffered comparatively less damage, with around 162 affected", citing official data, he added.Negi confirmed that the state has suffered significant loss of life and property due to the ongoing monsoon."The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for several areas until August 27. All district administrations have been instructed to remain alert and be prepared for any incident. Relief and rescue teams are ready. Where travel is disrupted, local administrations can order closure of schools and institutions," he said.Highlighting the scale of damage since the onset of the monsoon, Negi said the state has experienced repeated cloudbursts and flood-related incidents."We have been alert from day one. Wherever a disaster occurred, relief work was carried out immediately. Even during the ongoing Assembly session, discussions continued for four days, but there was never a situation where relief work was lacking," he added.The minister said the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has approved what he termed as the "best relief package in the country during monsoon," going beyond provisions outlined in the central government's relief manual."In 2023, we decided to increase compensation for fully damaged houses from Rs 1.5 lakh (of which the state bears Rs 30,000) to Rs 7 lakh. This year too, we have raised the amount. For partially damaged houses, the central provision was initially Rs 6,000, but we have increased it to Rs 1 lakh. If your household goods are destroyed, the previous relief amount was Rs 2,500; we have increased it to Rs 70,000," he explained."Earlier, crop insurance gave Rs 3,000 per bigha. Now, for land and crops washed away, we have increased it to Rs 10,000. For loss of livestock, earlier relief was Rs 3,000, which we raised to Rs 6,000 in 2023, without any limit on the number of animals. This year, it has been further increased to Rs 9,000. For damaged gaushalas (cow shelters), Rs 50,000 will be given. If a shop is damaged, Rs 1 lakh will be provided," Negi added.Urging the public to stay safe, he appealed to residents to avoid unnecessary travel amid ongoing red alerts. "Due to heavy rain, landslides are continuously occurring, and roads are getting blocked. My appeal is that you should step out only if necessary. At this time, it is important to stay safe," he said.Confirming the casualties, bringing the total death toll to 303, Negi said the toll is rising each day."So far, about 155 people have died due to rain-related incidents, and 148 have died in road accidents," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

 Repeated cloudbursts and flood-related incidents have led to sever damage to infrastructure in the state, particularly in districts of Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti. 

Heavy rainfall and floods have caused widespread devastation across Himachal Pradesh, severely impacting roads, electricity, and water supply in several districts. Revenue, Horticulture and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi on Monday said the monsoon remained "very active" over the last 24 hours, particularly affecting districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti. "In the past 24 hours, the monsoon has been very active. This has especially impacted the Chamba district, parts of the Kangra district, some areas of Mandi, Shimla, and even the Lahaul-Spiti. There has been heavy damage at many places, and Chamba has suffered significant losses. Roads have been blocked as well," Negi said. "As of this morning, 625 roads are blocked, including three national highways. More than 1,500 distribution transformers have been affected. Water supply schemes have suffered comparatively less damage, with around 162 affected", citing official data, he added. Negi confirmed that the state has suffered significant loss of life and property due to the ongoing monsoon. "The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for several areas until August 27. All district administrations have been instructed to remain alert and be prepared for any incident. Relief and rescue teams are ready. Where travel is disrupted, local administrations can order closure of schools and institutions," he said. Highlighting the scale of damage since the onset of the monsoon, Negi said the state has experienced repeated cloudbursts and flood-related incidents. "We have been alert from day one. Wherever a disaster occurred, relief work was carried out immediately. Even during the ongoing Assembly session, discussions continued for four days, but there was never a situation where relief work was lacking," he added. The minister said the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has approved what he termed as the "best relief package in the country during monsoon," going beyond provisions outlined in the central government's relief manual. "In 2023, we decided to increase compensation for fully damaged houses from Rs 1.5 lakh (of which the state bears Rs 30,000) to Rs 7 lakh. This year too, we have raised the amount. For partially damaged houses, the central provision was initially Rs 6,000, but we have increased it to Rs 1 lakh. If your household goods are destroyed, the previous relief amount was Rs 2,500; we have increased it to Rs 70,000," he explained. "Earlier, crop insurance gave Rs 3,000 per bigha. Now, for land and crops washed away, we have increased it to Rs 10,000. For loss of livestock, earlier relief was Rs 3,000, which we raised to Rs 6,000 in 2023, without any limit on the number of animals. This year, it has been further increased to Rs 9,000. For damaged gaushalas (cow shelters), Rs 50,000 will be given. If a shop is damaged, Rs 1 lakh will be provided," Negi added. Urging the public to stay safe, he appealed to residents to avoid unnecessary travel amid ongoing red alerts. "Due to heavy rain, landslides are continuously occurring, and roads are getting blocked. My appeal is that you should step out only if necessary. At this time, it is important to stay safe," he said. Confirming the casualties, bringing the total death toll to 303, Negi said the toll is rising each day. "So far, about 155 people have died due to rain-related incidents, and 148 have died in road accidents," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

&nbsp;Repeated cloudbursts and flood-related incidents have led to sever damage to infrastructure in the state, particularly in districts of Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti.&nbsp;

Himachal weather: 303 dead, 625 roads blocked; State announces 'best relief package in country'

The Philippines' Armed Forces have reportedly shown interest in acquiring India's Pralay Ballistic missiles. According to sources of the Indian Defence Research Wing, the Philippines is interested in the expansion of defence ties with India, after the successful 2022 BrahMos deal. Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, the Pralay is a short-range, solid-fuel, quasi-ballistic system designed for precision strikes against high-value targets.&nbsp;<h2>Key features of Pralay Missile</h2>Pralay is a canisterised, road mobile missile with a range of 150–500 km, and has potential for further extension depending on mission requirements. It is a hypersonic missile with a top speed of Mach 6.1, which reduces the probability of interception and increases the deployment speed. It is capable of delivering conventional warheads such as High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation, Penetration-Cum-Blast, and Runway Denial Penetration Submunitions, weighing from 350 kg up to 1,000 kg. Its precision is determined by the Inertial Navigation System for mid-course guidance and Millimetre-Wave Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator, along with radar imaging for the terminal phase. It is deployed using a 12×12 Ashok Leyland Heavy Mobility Vehicle (HMV) transporter erector launcher (TEL), with deployment to launch time between 10 minutes and command to launch time of 60 seconds. It also features a quasi-ballistic trajectory and a manoeuvrable re-entry vehicle technology enabling it to evade anti-missile defences.<h2>Strategic Significance</h2>The Pralay missile is another option for India's tactical deterrence in precision-guided systems. India already has Prahar, Shaurya, BrahMos, Nirbhay, HELINA, Rudram Series, SAAW, and Akash, which can be used for precision strikes. This is potentially significant in the case of a land engagement over a short range.&nbsp;According to the IDRW report, Armenia is in advanced negotiations with India and is expected to place the first batch order for the Pralay missile, with a visiting delegation reportedly witnessing testing of Pralay in July 2025. Armenia is engaged in a conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh in the South Caucasus, which is internationally recognised as Azerbaijan but historically had Armenian ties. India has emerged as Armenia's largest arms supplier, surpassing Russia. Between 2022 and 2024, Armenia signed defence contracts with India valued at over $1.5 billion. These include 15 units of Akash-1S Air Defence System, 4 batteries of Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher, 6 units ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System), and 15 units of Ashwin Ballistic Missile Defence Interceptors.&nbsp;India has already delivered $375 million worth of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, increasing the naval deterrence of the Philippines. The Pralay Missile is expected to increase the land-based capabilities of the Philippines, with increased intensity of territorial conflict with Cambodia. India's growing stature as a global defence exporter aligns with "Make in India" initiatives and enhances diplomatic engagement in South East Asia, countering Chinese influence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reports from the Indian Defence Research Wing suggest that the Philippines is showing interest in India's Pralay missile after the BrahMos deal. Explore its speed, range, warhead types, and precision-strike capabilities.

The Philippines' Armed Forces have reportedly shown interest in acquiring India's Pralay Ballistic missiles. According to sources of the Indian Defence Research Wing, the Philippines is interested in the expansion of defence ties with India, after the successful 2022 BrahMos deal. Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, the Pralay is a short-range, solid-fuel, quasi-ballistic system designed for precision strikes against high-value targets. Key features of Pralay Missile Pralay is a canisterised, road mobile missile with a range of 150–500 km, and has potential for further extension depending on mission requirements. It is a hypersonic missile with a top speed of Mach 6.1, which reduces the probability of interception and increases the deployment speed. It is capable of delivering conventional warheads such as High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation, Penetration-Cum-Blast, and Runway Denial Penetration Submunitions, weighing from 350 kg up to 1,000 kg. Its precision is determined by the Inertial Navigation System for mid-course guidance and Millimetre-Wave Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator, along with radar imaging for the terminal phase. It is deployed using a 12×12 Ashok Leyland Heavy Mobility Vehicle (HMV) transporter erector launcher (TEL), with deployment to launch time between 10 minutes and command to launch time of 60 seconds. It also features a quasi-ballistic trajectory and a manoeuvrable re-entry vehicle technology enabling it to evade anti-missile defences. Strategic Significance The Pralay missile is another option for India's tactical deterrence in precision-guided systems. India already has Prahar, Shaurya, BrahMos, Nirbhay, HELINA, Rudram Series, SAAW, and Akash, which can be used for precision strikes. This is potentially significant in the case of a land engagement over a short range. According to the IDRW report, Armenia is in advanced negotiations with India and is expected to place the first batch order for the Pralay missile, with a visiting delegation reportedly witnessing testing of Pralay in July 2025. Armenia is engaged in a conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh in the South Caucasus, which is internationally recognised as Azerbaijan but historically had Armenian ties. India has emerged as Armenia's largest arms supplier, surpassing Russia. Between 2022 and 2024, Armenia signed defence contracts with India valued at over $1.5 billion. These include 15 units of Akash-1S Air Defence System, 4 batteries of Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher, 6 units ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System), and 15 units of Ashwin Ballistic Missile Defence Interceptors. India has already delivered $375 million worth of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, increasing the naval deterrence of the Philippines. The Pralay Missile is expected to increase the land-based capabilities of the Philippines, with increased intensity of territorial conflict with Cambodia. India's growing stature as a global defence exporter aligns with "Make in India" initiatives and enhances diplomatic engagement in South East Asia, countering Chinese influence.

Reports from the Indian Defence Research Wing suggest that the Philippines is showing interest in India's Pralay missile after the BrahMos deal. Explore its speed, range, warhead types, and precision-strike capabilities.

Philippines eyes India’s Pralay ballistic missile after BrahMos deal: Key features, speed and range

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully held the flight test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS). The test took place on Saturday (Aug 23), off the Odisha coast. This marks a crucial step towards India’s ambitious Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a comprehensive indigenous air defence shield. The hope is to create a shield similar to Israel’s Iron Dome by 2035. India even aims to expand the scope of Sudarshan Chakra beyond Iron Dome, envisioning it for a subcontinent-level theatre with both defensive and offensive capabilities.<h2>IADWS would be perhaps India’s most ambitious defence mission with far-reaching consequences</h2>IADWS is aimed at integrating different systems to tackle aerial threats like drones, loitering munitions, cruise missiles, and high-speed aircraft. The system will offer surveillance, battle management, and weapon control.What are the components of India’s air defence system?&nbsp;<h2>What you should know about QRSAM, VSHORADS and DEW</h2>QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW are the core components of IADWS. QRSAM, or Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile, is a short-range system with a range of 25 to 30 kilometres, which can target aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and glide bombs. It is capable of engaging multiple threats simultaneously.VSHORADS, which stands for Very Short-Range Air Defence System, is a man-portable system with a range of up to 6 kilometres. It has an uncooled imaging infrared seeker and is designed to target aircraft, drones, and helicopters.DEW, or Directed Energy Weapon, is a laser-based weapon system with unlimited firing capacity. Capable of disabling drone electronics at close range, DEW is a cost-effective option for tackling multiple threats.The IADWS system is managed by a centralised command and control centre developed by the Defence Research &amp; Development Laboratory (DRDL), which coordinates missile systems, radars, and communication networks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-mean-sudarshan-chakra-russian-diplomat-responds-on-being-about-india-s-iron-dome-1755673209969">'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome</a><h2>Proudly Indian: IADWS is an indigenous defence system</h2>According to reports, all technologies used in IADWS have been developed in India, another feather in the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. The IADWS system integrates with the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) and the Indian Army’s Akashteer battlefield management network, aiming to be a comprehensive defence and offence system against enemy targets.<h2>How IADWS was tested</h2>During the Saturday test, IADWS successfully destroyed three aerial targets simultaneously: two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and one multicopter.IADWS demonstrated flawless coordination among its missile, laser, and detection subsystems during the test.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-india-ties-russia-to-power-india-s-sudarshan-chakra-air-defence-project-1755799140393/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-india-ties-russia-to-power-india-s-sudarshan-chakra-air-defence-project-1755799140393/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>IADWS is designed to tackle nuclear and hypersonic weapons threats too</h2>As mentioned, IADWS aims to be more expansive than Israel’s Iron Dome. Designed to be scalable and versatile, it intends to build a robust, large-scale defence against nuclear, hypersonic, and drone-based threats.IADWS can eventually be adapted to protect both military and civilian infrastructure of India.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-own-iron-dome-soon-pm-modi-announces-mission-sudarshan-chakra-to-strengthen-defence-system-1755235970279">India's own Israel-like Iron Dome soon: PM Modi announces Mission Sudarshan Chakra to strengthen defence system</a>&nbsp;<h2>A strategic asset for India: precision and reliability like Sudarshan Chakra</h2>The strategic value of IADWS lies in its precision and reliability, inspired by the mythical Sudarshan Chakra, the all-destroying discus weapon of Lord Vishnu.It has drawn lessons from Indian defence forces’ experience during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, where India successfully countered drone and missile attacks from the neighbouring country.Also read : <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hindu-mythology-and-cosmology-in-indian-weapons-army-navy-air-force-assets-from-agni-missile-to-sudarshan-chakra-defence-system-what-it-means-1755941083305">From Agni to Sudarshan Chakra: Hindu mythology and Indian cosmology in names of missiles, defence systems and assets of navy, army, air force</a><h2>The IADWS is only the beginning. Mission Sudarshan Chakra is much bigger</h2>IADWS could be a part of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, but not the complete system, which is far more ambitious.The broader Sudarshan Chakra mission aims to create a nationwide, integrated defence shield by 2035.Sudarshan Chakra will incorporate defensive and offensive capabilities across air, land, sea, cybersecurity, and surveillance.This means Sudarshan Chakra will cover a larger territory to address more complex threats.Rakshak-Suraksha Kavach is India’s other defence systemAt Aero India 2025, DRDO also showcased Rakshak-Suraksha Kavach, another indigenous multi-layered defence system.Still in the design stage, Rakshak Kavach features similar technologies, including QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW.It may serve as a complementary or parallel system under the Sudarshan Chakra initiative. &nbsp;

DRDO’s successful test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) marks a key step in India’s Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aiming for a comprehensive, indigenous air defence shield by 2035. Here is why it matters

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully held the flight test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS). The test took place on Saturday (Aug 23), off the Odisha coast. This marks a crucial step towards India’s ambitious Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a comprehensive indigenous air defence shield. The hope is to create a shield similar to Israel’s Iron Dome by 2035. India even aims to expand the scope of Sudarshan Chakra beyond Iron Dome, envisioning it for a subcontinent-level theatre with both defensive and offensive capabilities. IADWS would be perhaps India’s most ambitious defence mission with far-reaching consequences IADWS is aimed at integrating different systems to tackle aerial threats like drones, loitering munitions, cruise missiles, and high-speed aircraft. The system will offer surveillance, battle management, and weapon control. What are the components of India’s air defence system? What you should know about QRSAM, VSHORADS and DEW QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW are the core components of IADWS. QRSAM, or Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile, is a short-range system with a range of 25 to 30 kilometres, which can target aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and glide bombs. It is capable of engaging multiple threats simultaneously. VSHORADS, which stands for Very Short-Range Air Defence System, is a man-portable system with a range of up to 6 kilometres. It has an uncooled imaging infrared seeker and is designed to target aircraft, drones, and helicopters. DEW, or Directed Energy Weapon, is a laser-based weapon system with unlimited firing capacity. Capable of disabling drone electronics at close range, DEW is a cost-effective option for tackling multiple threats. The IADWS system is managed by a centralised command and control centre developed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), which coordinates missile systems, radars, and communication networks. Also read: 'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome Proudly Indian: IADWS is an indigenous defence system According to reports, all technologies used in IADWS have been developed in India, another feather in the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. The IADWS system integrates with the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) and the Indian Army’s Akashteer battlefield management network, aiming to be a comprehensive defence and offence system against enemy targets. How IADWS was tested During the Saturday test, IADWS successfully destroyed three aerial targets simultaneously: two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and one multicopter. IADWS demonstrated flawless coordination among its missile, laser, and detection subsystems during the test. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-india-ties-russia-to-power-india-s-sudarshan-chakra-air-defence-project-1755799140393/embed IADWS is designed to tackle nuclear and hypersonic weapons threats too As mentioned, IADWS aims to be more expansive than Israel’s Iron Dome. Designed to be scalable and versatile, it intends to build a robust, large-scale defence against nuclear, hypersonic, and drone-based threats. IADWS can eventually be adapted to protect both military and civilian infrastructure of India. Also read: India's own Israel-like Iron Dome soon: PM Modi announces Mission Sudarshan Chakra to strengthen defence system A strategic asset for India: precision and reliability like Sudarshan Chakra The strategic value of IADWS lies in its precision and reliability, inspired by the mythical Sudarshan Chakra, the all-destroying discus weapon of Lord Vishnu. It has drawn lessons from Indian defence forces’ experience during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, where India successfully countered drone and missile attacks from the neighbouring country. Also read : From Agni to Sudarshan Chakra: Hindu mythology and Indian cosmology in names of missiles, defence systems and assets of navy, army, air force The IADWS is only the beginning. Mission Sudarshan Chakra is much bigger IADWS could be a part of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, but not the complete system, which is far more ambitious. The broader Sudarshan Chakra mission aims to create a nationwide, integrated defence shield by 2035. Sudarshan Chakra will incorporate defensive and offensive capabilities across air, land, sea, cybersecurity, and surveillance. This means Sudarshan Chakra will cover a larger territory to address more complex threats. Rakshak-Suraksha Kavach is India’s other defence system At Aero India 2025, DRDO also showcased Rakshak-Suraksha Kavach, another indigenous multi-layered defence system. Still in the design stage, Rakshak Kavach features similar technologies, including QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW. It may serve as a complementary or parallel system under the Sudarshan Chakra initiative.

DRDO’s successful test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) marks a key step in India’s Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aiming for a comprehensive, indigenous air defence shield by 2035. Here is why it matters

Towards Mission Sudarshan Chakra: Why India’s successful test of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System matters

Anurag Thakur, former union minister in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the centre has gone viral for his statement on Lord Hanuman during an interaction with school children on National Space Day on Saturday (Aug 23). In the clip, the five-time parliamentarian is heard saying Lord Hanuman was the "first to travel in space."&nbsp;During his interaction with students at Shri Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Una, Himachal Pradesh, Thakur asked, “who was the first person to travel to space.” In reply the students said “Neil Armstrong,” but Thakur responded by saying “I think Hanuman ji was the first person to travel to space.”&nbsp;While making the comments, Thakur urged teachers to look beyond “textbooks given to us by the British". He asked them to look towards “our vedas, our textbooks and our knowledge,” so that students get to learn more.&nbsp;Thakur's comment invited criticism from the opposition who called it "deeply disturbing". DMK party MP Kanimozhi said, “A member of parliament and former union minister asking school children who first set foot on the moon, and insisting that it was not Neil Armstrong but Hanuman, is deeply troubling. Science is not mythology. To mislead young minds in classrooms is an insult to knowledge, reason, and the spirit of scientific temper enshrined in our Constitution.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hi Anurag, Instead of correcting the children, you told them Hanuman was the first space traveller with that frivolous smile. It was Yuri Gagarin. Stop playing with the innocent minds of children. You &amp; your ideology has already corrupted a couple of generations. <a href="https://t.co/PGoT5xYQXa">https://t.co/PGoT5xYQXa</a>&mdash; Pracool (@thehighmonk) <a href="https://twitter.com/thehighmonk/status/1959502972284723341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Social media too was filled with reactions on Thakur's comments.&nbsp;One of the user after watching the video on X wrote, “Instead of correcting the children, you told them Hanuman was the first space traveller with that frivolous smile. It was Yuri Gagarin. Stop playing with the innocent minds of children.”

A second user wrote, “Intellectualism shouldn’t be sacrificed for blind faith. Hanuman ate the Sun 15 million °C hot &amp; 1.3M times bigger than Earth? That’s not science, it’s mythology. Does Anurag Thakur want kids to defy gravity too? Or just turn into zombies?”.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Intellectualism shouldn’t be sacrificed for blind faith. Hanuman ate the Sun 15 million °C hot &amp; 1.3M times bigger than Earth? That’s not science, it’s mythology. Does Anurag Thakur want kids to defy gravity too? Or just turn into zombies?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnuragThakur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnuragThakur</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EducationOrMyth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EducationOrMyth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewIndia</a>&mdash; Priyank Bhatt (@voiceofpriyank) <a href="https://twitter.com/voiceofpriyank/status/1959771190194770397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While a third wrote, “For the record: Yuri Gagarin (1961) was the first man in space, Valentina Tereshkova (1963) the first woman, Rakesh Sharma (1984) India’s first, and Kalpana Chawla the first Indian-born woman astronaut.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a> Ji, for the record: Yuri Gagarin (1961) was the first man in space, Valentina Tereshkova (1963) the first woman, Rakesh Sharma (1984) India’s first, and Kalpana Chawla the first Indian-born woman astronaut.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheyCallHimOG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheyCallHimOG</a> <a href="https://t.co/KP6L9aI7ia">pic.twitter.com/KP6L9aI7ia</a>&mdash; 🥑 (@TeamAvocadoIND) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamAvocadoIND/status/1959589645140083196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">*Hanuman Ji Was First Space Traveller : Anurag Thakur* Neil Armstrong: <a href="https://t.co/3X7BDfCKyx">pic.twitter.com/3X7BDfCKyx</a>&mdash; Hancock (@Hancock_IND) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hancock_IND/status/1959847767641108839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While making the comments, Thakur urged teachers to look beyond textbooks given to us by the British and encourage students to read vedas.

Anurag Thakur, former union minister in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the centre has gone viral for his statement on Lord Hanuman during an interaction with school children on National Space Day on Saturday (Aug 23). In the clip, the five-time parliamentarian is heard saying Lord Hanuman was the "first to travel in space." During his interaction with students at Shri Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Una, Himachal Pradesh, Thakur asked, “who was the first person to travel to space.” In reply the students said “Neil Armstrong,” but Thakur responded by saying “I think Hanuman ji was the first person to travel to space.” While making the comments, Thakur urged teachers to look beyond “textbooks given to us by the British". He asked them to look towards “our vedas, our textbooks and our knowledge,” so that students get to learn more. Thakur's comment invited criticism from the opposition who called it "deeply disturbing". DMK party MP Kanimozhi said, “A member of parliament and former union minister asking school children who first set foot on the moon, and insisting that it was not Neil Armstrong but Hanuman, is deeply troubling. Science is not mythology. To mislead young minds in classrooms is an insult to knowledge, reason, and the spirit of scientific temper enshrined in our Constitution.

While making the comments, Thakur urged teachers to look beyond “textbooks given to us by the British" and encourage students to read vedas.

'First space traveller was Hanuman ji': ex-Indian minister's claim startles school event; memes and backlash follow

The Delhi High Court on Monday set aside the Central Information Commission (CIC) order, which directed the University of Delhi (DU) to disclose the information related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s educational qualifications. The single-judge bench of Justice Sachin Datta said, “CIC order is set aside.” The high court order came on the Delhi University’s plea challenging a Central Information Commission (CIC) order directing disclosure of information on the bachelor’s degree of PM Narendra Modi.&nbsp;In a verdict on an RTI application filed by one Neeraj, the CIC had on December 21, 2016, allowed inspection of records of all students who cleared the BA exam in 1978—the year Prime Minister Modi also passed it.The high court stayed the CIC order on January 23, 2017.&nbsp;The university challenged the CIC order on the ground that it held the information of students in a fiduciary capacity and “mere curiosity” in the absence of public interest did not entitle anyone to seek private information under the RTI law.&nbsp;<h2>CIC issued order in 2016 on RTI application</h2>The legal battle over the disclosure of Prime Minister Modi’s academic records has been on for nearly a decade.In 2016, an RTI application was filed for the disclosure, but Delhi University denied it, citing rules against sharing information related to a third party. The Chief Information Commission (CIC) order in December, however, justified it, saying that the educational qualifications of a public figure must be transparent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, the counsel for the RTI applicant had defended the CIC order, stating that the Right to Information (RTI) Act permits the disclosure of the prime minister’s educational information for greater public good.&nbsp;WATCH: Can a PM Run Govt from Jail? Amit Shah Slams Opposition over Constitution Amendment Bill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-a-pm-run-their-govt-from-jail-amit-shah-slams-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-1756115040056/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-a-pm-run-their-govt-from-jail-amit-shah-slams-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-1756115040056/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Right to privacy of thousands outweighs public’s right to know’</h2>&nbsp;During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi University (DU), argued that the CIC order should be cancelled. He said the university had no problem showing the records to the court itself. “University has no objection in showing the record to the court. There is a degree from 1978, Bachelor of Arts,” Mehta stated.&nbsp;Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta argued that the right to privacy of thousands of students outweighed the public’s right to know. He said releasing the data would set a dangerous precedent, potentially hindering the functioning of public authorities.The SG further said that there were individuals “seeking publicity or driven by political motives” who wanted the record.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-a-pm-run-their-govt-from-jail-amit-shah-slams-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-1756115040056/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-a-pm-run-their-govt-from-jail-amit-shah-slams-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-1756115040056/embed</a> <h2>‘Right to privacy of thousands outweighs public’s right to know’</h2> During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi University (DU), argued that the CIC order should be cancelled. He said the university had no problem showing the records to the court itself. “University has no objection in showing the record to the court. There is a degree from 1978, Bachelor of Arts,” Mehta stated. Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta argued that the right to privacy of thousands of students outweighed the public’s right to know. He said releasing the data would set a dangerous precedent, potentially hindering the functioning of public authorities.The SG further said that there were individuals “seeking publicity or driven by political motives” who wanted the record.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi University (DU), argued during the hearing that the CIC order should be cancelled. He said the university had no problem showing the records to the court itself. ”There is a degree from 1978, Bachelor of Arts,” Mehta stated.

The Delhi High Court on Monday set aside the Central Information Commission (CIC) order, which directed the University of Delhi (DU) to disclose the information related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s educational qualifications. The single-judge bench of Justice Sachin Datta said, “CIC order is set aside.” The high court order came on the Delhi University’s plea challenging a Central Information Commission (CIC) order directing disclosure of information on the bachelor’s degree of PM Narendra Modi. In a verdict on an RTI application filed by one Neeraj, the CIC had on December 21, 2016, allowed inspection of records of all students who cleared the BA exam in 1978—the year Prime Minister Modi also passed it. The high court stayed the CIC order on January 23, 2017. The university challenged the CIC order on the ground that it held the information of students in a fiduciary capacity and “mere curiosity” in the absence of public interest did not entitle anyone to seek private information under the RTI law. CIC issued order in 2016 on RTI application The legal battle over the disclosure of Prime Minister Modi’s academic records has been on for nearly a decade. In 2016, an RTI application was filed for the disclosure, but Delhi University denied it, citing rules against sharing information related to a third party. The Chief Information Commission (CIC) order in December, however, justified it, saying that the educational qualifications of a public figure must be transparent. Earlier, the counsel for the RTI applicant had defended the CIC order, stating that the Right to Information (RTI) Act permits the disclosure of the prime minister’s educational information for greater public good. WATCH: Can a PM Run Govt from Jail? Amit Shah Slams Opposition over Constitution Amendment Bill https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-a-pm-run-their-govt-from-jail-amit-shah-slams-opposition-over-constitution-amendment-bill-1756115040056/embed ‘Right to privacy of thousands outweighs public’s right to know’ During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi University (DU), argued that the CIC order should be cancelled. He said the university had no problem showing the records to the court itself. “University has no objection in showing the record to the court. There is a degree from 1978, Bachelor of Arts,” Mehta stated. Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta argued that the right to privacy of thousands of students outweighed the public’s right to know. He said releasing the data would set a dangerous precedent, potentially hindering the functioning of public authorities. The SG further said that there were individuals “seeking publicity or driven by political motives” who wanted the record.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi University (DU), argued during the hearing that the CIC order should be cancelled. He said the university had no problem showing the records to the court itself. ”There is a degree from 1978, Bachelor of Arts,” Mehta stated.

Delhi HC quashes CIC order directing DU to disclose details of PM Modi’s degree

On returning after completing the Axiom-4 mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared his experience in the space station. In an interaction in New Delhi, he shared a video which featured thunderstorms and stars, and he said the expansive visuals would include India. “We would be passing over India."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/group-captain-shubhanshu-shukla-returns-to-india-after-axiom-4-space-mission-likely-to-meet-pm-modi-1755399525872/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/group-captain-shubhanshu-shukla-returns-to-india-after-axiom-4-space-mission-likely-to-meet-pm-modi-1755399525872/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Explaining the visual, the Indian astronaut said, “What you would see is the Earth upside down and the green glow that you see is prevalent in the upper layers of the atmosphere because of oxygen atoms, which are there, which get excited. On the bottom of the screen are the stars, and the top portion would be the Earth, and we would be passing over India, and so this is the general setting of the scene.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-left-my-laptop-mid-air-assuming-it-will-float-shubhanshu-shukla-on-relearning-the-effect-of-gravity-1755779392691">'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla on re-learning the effect of gravity</a>&nbsp;He added, “The flashes that you see are the thunderstorms, the lightning that is happening…” &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Group Captain Shukla scripted history as he became the first Indian astronaut to fly to NASA’s International Space Station under a private mission. He was aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which was launched into space after multiple delays on June 25.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shubhanshu-shukla-parents-on-his-homecoming-1752571641904">'One rocket every week, 50 per year': PM Modi aims big for 'self-reliant' India</a>&nbsp;Talking about his experience in space, he said he carried with him seven experiments which were prepared by Indian researchers. During the 18-day mission, he conducted those experiments. “In space everything changes, the space around you changes, your body changes...” he exclaimed that he never thought they would be as challenging.&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: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shows a clip from space, says, &quot;What you would see is the earth upside down and the green glow that you see is prevalent in the upper layers of atmosphere because of oxygen atoms, which are there, which get excited. On the bottom of… <a href="https://t.co/HVx1bA36fX">pic.twitter.com/HVx1bA36fX</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959498883802845671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shares expansive space visuals featuring India.

On returning after completing the Axiom-4 mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared his experience in the space station. In an interaction in New Delhi, he shared a video which featured thunderstorms and stars, and he said the expansive visuals would include India. “We would be passing over India." https://www.wionews.com/videos/group-captain-shubhanshu-shukla-returns-to-india-after-axiom-4-space-mission-likely-to-meet-pm-modi-1755399525872/embed Explaining the visual, the Indian astronaut said, “What you would see is the Earth upside down and the green glow that you see is prevalent in the upper layers of the atmosphere because of oxygen atoms, which are there, which get excited. On the bottom of the screen are the stars, and the top portion would be the Earth, and we would be passing over India, and so this is the general setting of the scene.” Also read: 'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla on re-learning the effect of gravity He added, “The flashes that you see are the thunderstorms, the lightning that is happening…” Group Captain Shukla scripted history as he became the first Indian astronaut to fly to NASA’s International Space Station under a private mission. He was aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which was launched into space after multiple delays on June 25. Also read: 'One rocket every week, 50 per year': PM Modi aims big for 'self-reliant' India Talking about his experience in space, he said he carried with him seven experiments which were prepared by Indian researchers. During the 18-day mission, he conducted those experiments. “In space everything changes, the space around you changes, your body changes...” he exclaimed that he never thought they would be as challenging.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shares expansive space visuals featuring India.

'Passing over India': Shubhanshu Shukla shares visuals captured during his space mission

US President Donald Trump has appointed Sergio Gor as both US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. This is raising more than a few eyebrows. The role would in practice cover around 13 countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan. Is it a new development? Why is it a problem? &nbsp;Does it mean India's importance has diminished for the US? Is the US re-hyphenating India and Pakistan? Or is the US now clubbing the entire South and Central Asian regions together to monitor India's ties with Russia and China? Many such questions are being raised by experts and global affairs watchers alike. Here is a breakdown.<h2>Why is it unusual for the US ambassador to India to also serve South, Central Asia</h2>The move is unprecedented in recent US diplomatic history, as these roles have traditionally been separate. The main reason was to avoid linking India with Pakistan and other regional conflicts. But Gor’s dual mandate is the first time such a combined role has been assigned.What’s behind the decision?&nbsp;Gor’s dual role is raising questions about Trump’s policy direction. Here are the main reasons why Gor’s dual role is proving controversial.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-picks-loyal-aide-musk-enemy-sergio-gor-as-us-ambassador-to-india-calls-him-incredible-envoy-1755910479653">Also read: Trump loyalist, Musk enemy Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India</a><h2>Re-hyphenation of India and Pakistan</h2>Traditionally, India has resisted being diplomatically "hyphenated" with Pakistan. Former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal noted that the new appointment is, in effect, an “ipso facto re-hyphenation” of India and Pakistan. In his view, this would undermine India’s independent bilateral relationship with the US.Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert, warned that bundling the roles could complicate US-India relations.&nbsp;Add to this Trump’s claims of mediating the India-Pakistan conflict after India’s Operation Sindoor, and his reported hosting of Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir, and the picture becomes clearer.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-sergio-gor-can-trump-s-man-in-delhi-bridge-back-india-u-s-ties-1755959367195/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-sergio-gor-can-trump-s-man-in-delhi-bridge-back-india-u-s-ties-1755959367195/embed</a><h2>Gor has a vast region to cover with no regional expertise</h2>Gor’s appointment was surprising to many experts, who pointed to his limited experience in India or South Asia. It was widely viewed as a political appointment rather than one based on diplomatic expertise. One expert described the decision as a “regression to Cold War-era thinking,” potentially undermining India’s position as a strategic US partner in the region.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-sergio-gor-trump-loyalist-once-dubbed-snake-by-musk-to-be-us-envoy-to-india-all-you-need-to-know-about-him-1755913509372">Also read: Who is Sergio Gor? Trump loyalist once dubbed 'snake' by Musk, to be US envoy to India. All you need to know about him</a><h2>The timing is not lost on anyone: US-India relations are facing challenges</h2>The timing of Gor’s appointment is crucial—it comes amid Trump’s imposition of tariffs on India, apparently in response to its continued purchase of Russian oil, and at a time when trade talks have stalled. As noted by scholar Nicholas Shafer, the ambassadorship to India had been vacant for months, which “sent exactly the wrong signal” to a key US partner. Now, giving Gor the added role of regional envoy has deepened concerns about Trump’s policy priorities.<h2>Gor as South and Central Asia special envoy brings geopolitical risks</h2>Gor’s broader mandate includes responsibility for a volatile region, and experts warn this could entangle the US embassy in New Delhi in issues like Kashmir. This has revived concerns about a Cold War-era mindset, in which the US viewed India through the prism of regional conflicts and often tilted toward Pakistan.There is also a view that New Delhi could become Washington’s “watchtower” for other geopolitical challenges, including the Ukraine conflict and growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Will Gor's role as special envoy involve monitoring India's ties with China and Russia? The entire setup, critics argue, “smells of Cold War thinking.”<h2>Is Gor’s appointment a good thing? Here's some history for you</h2>Sreemoy Talukdar, an international affairs expert, had a different take, suggesting that having Gor—a hardcore MAGA insider with Trump’s ear—in New Delhi could actually strengthen India-US ties.Kugelman also raised the possibility that this might be a sign of the US prioritising India by basing the envoy in New Delhi. But that remains to be seen in practice.India has successfully resisted similar diplomatic frameworks in the past. Remember “Af-Pak”? India was notably displeased when President Barack Obama appointed Richard Holbrooke as dual envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan.&nbsp;There is now renewed fear of unwanted US involvement in India-Pakistan bilateral issues, particularly as Pakistani leaders continue to request US mediation on Kashmir at every opportunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sergio Gor’s  appointment as both US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia has sparked concern among international affairs experts and observers. The fear is that it could re-hyphenate India and Pakistan. Is it a sign of US returning to Cold War-era thinking?

US President Donald Trump has appointed Sergio Gor as both US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. This is raising more than a few eyebrows. The role would in practice cover around 13 countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan. Is it a new development? Why is it a problem? Does it mean India's importance has diminished for the US? Is the US re-hyphenating India and Pakistan? Or is the US now clubbing the entire South and Central Asian regions together to monitor India's ties with Russia and China? Many such questions are being raised by experts and global affairs watchers alike. Here is a breakdown. Why is it unusual for the US ambassador to India to also serve South, Central Asia The move is unprecedented in recent US diplomatic history, as these roles have traditionally been separate. The main reason was to avoid linking India with Pakistan and other regional conflicts. But Gor’s dual mandate is the first time such a combined role has been assigned. What’s behind the decision? Gor’s dual role is raising questions about Trump’s policy direction. Here are the main reasons why Gor’s dual role is proving controversial. Also read: Trump loyalist, Musk enemy Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India Re-hyphenation of India and Pakistan Traditionally, India has resisted being diplomatically "hyphenated" with Pakistan. Former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal noted that the new appointment is, in effect, an “ipso facto re-hyphenation” of India and Pakistan. In his view, this would undermine India’s independent bilateral relationship with the US. Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert, warned that bundling the roles could complicate US-India relations. Add to this Trump’s claims of mediating the India-Pakistan conflict after India’s Operation Sindoor, and his reported hosting of Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir, and the picture becomes clearer. https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-sergio-gor-can-trump-s-man-in-delhi-bridge-back-india-u-s-ties-1755959367195/embed Gor has a vast region to cover with no regional expertise Gor’s appointment was surprising to many experts, who pointed to his limited experience in India or South Asia. It was widely viewed as a political appointment rather than one based on diplomatic expertise. One expert described the decision as a “regression to Cold War-era thinking,” potentially undermining India’s position as a strategic US partner in the region. Also read: Who is Sergio Gor? Trump loyalist once dubbed 'snake' by Musk, to be US envoy to India. All you need to know about him The timing is not lost on anyone: US-India relations are facing challenges The timing of Gor’s appointment is crucial—it comes amid Trump’s imposition of tariffs on India, apparently in response to its continued purchase of Russian oil, and at a time when trade talks have stalled. As noted by scholar Nicholas Shafer, the ambassadorship to India had been vacant for months, which “sent exactly the wrong signal” to a key US partner. Now, giving Gor the added role of regional envoy has deepened concerns about Trump’s policy priorities. Gor as South and Central Asia special envoy brings geopolitical risks Gor’s broader mandate includes responsibility for a volatile region, and experts warn this could entangle the US embassy in New Delhi in issues like Kashmir. This has revived concerns about a Cold War-era mindset, in which the US viewed India through the prism of regional conflicts and often tilted toward Pakistan. There is also a view that New Delhi could become Washington’s “watchtower” for other geopolitical challenges, including the Ukraine conflict and growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Will Gor's role as special envoy involve monitoring India's ties with China and Russia? The entire setup, critics argue, “smells of Cold War thinking.” Is Gor’s appointment a good thing? Here's some history for you Sreemoy Talukdar, an international affairs expert, had a different take, suggesting that having Gor—a hardcore MAGA insider with Trump’s ear—in New Delhi could actually strengthen India-US ties. Kugelman also raised the possibility that this might be a sign of the US prioritising India by basing the envoy in New Delhi. But that remains to be seen in practice. India has successfully resisted similar diplomatic frameworks in the past. Remember “Af-Pak”? India was notably displeased when President Barack Obama appointed Richard Holbrooke as dual envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan. There is now renewed fear of unwanted US involvement in India-Pakistan bilateral issues, particularly as Pakistani leaders continue to request US mediation on Kashmir at every opportunity.

Sergio Gor’s &nbsp;appointment as both US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia has sparked concern among international affairs experts and observers. The fear is that it could re-hyphenate India and Pakistan. Is it a sign of US returning to Cold War-era thinking?

Smells like Cold War spirit: Trump-appointed US ambassador to India to also be its envoy to South and Central Asia. That's a problem because...

A case of forgery has come to light amid the nomination process of India’s Vice Presidential election, which is set to take place on September 9. A candidate from Kerala, identified as Joemon Joseph, allegedly used fake signatures of several MPs on his nomination form, resulting in his nomination getting rejected.Officials discovered that Joseph’s papers included 22 proposers and 22 seconders, the names and signatures of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, including Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Asaduddin Owaisi, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Sasmit Patra, Swati Maliwal, and even YSRCP MP Mithun Reddy, who is currently in prison.The incident came to light after the MPs were contacted by the election office to verify whether they had supported the 45-year-old for running in the election. However, many MPs said that they did not even know who Joseph was and never signed his nomination papers. His nomination was then rejected, according to News18.The authorities received 68 nominations from 46 candidates by the last date to file the papers on August 21, and 28 nominations from 19 candidates were rejected in the initial stage.After the remaining 40 nominations from 27 candidates were examined, authorities found that only two nominations were valid – CP Radhakrishnan, backed by BJP-led NDA, and B Sudarshan Reddy, backed by opposition INDIA bloc, both of whom submitted four nomination papers each.The matter has been sent to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, where further actions will be taken regarding the case of forgery in Joemon Joseph’s nomination papers.The polling for the Vice Presidential election is set to take place on September 9, which will see a direct contest between Radhakrishnan and Reddy. The elections are taking place after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon parliamentary sessions on July 21, citing health concerns.

A Kerala forged signatures of several Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MPs to file his nomination in the Vice Presidential elections, which are scheduled to be held on September 9.

A case of forgery has come to light amid the nomination process of India’s Vice Presidential election, which is set to take place on September 9. A candidate from Kerala, identified as Joemon Joseph, allegedly used fake signatures of several MPs on his nomination form, resulting in his nomination getting rejected. Officials discovered that Joseph’s papers included 22 proposers and 22 seconders, the names and signatures of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, including Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Asaduddin Owaisi, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Sasmit Patra, Swati Maliwal, and even YSRCP MP Mithun Reddy, who is currently in prison. The incident came to light after the MPs were contacted by the election office to verify whether they had supported the 45-year-old for running in the election. However, many MPs said that they did not even know who Joseph was and never signed his nomination papers. His nomination was then rejected, according to News18. The authorities received 68 nominations from 46 candidates by the last date to file the papers on August 21, and 28 nominations from 19 candidates were rejected in the initial stage. After the remaining 40 nominations from 27 candidates were examined, authorities found that only two nominations were valid – CP Radhakrishnan, backed by BJP-led NDA, and B Sudarshan Reddy, backed by opposition INDIA bloc, both of whom submitted four nomination papers each. The matter has been sent to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, where further actions will be taken regarding the case of forgery in Joemon Joseph’s nomination papers. The polling for the Vice Presidential election is set to take place on September 9, which will see a direct contest between Radhakrishnan and Reddy. The elections are taking place after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon parliamentary sessions on July 21, citing health concerns.

A Kerala forged signatures of several Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MPs to file his nomination in the Vice Presidential elections, which are scheduled to be held on September 9.

Kerala man forges signatures of MPs to file Vice Presidential nomination

The Ghatak (English: “deadly”) is an Indian stealth drone made for combat missions. It is a type of unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), which means it can fly and fight without a pilot inside. Because the project is highly secret, many details are not shared with the public. But the information available shows that it is an advanced and powerful weapon system for the future.The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones. The goal is to give the IAF a home-made stealth combat drone that can carry out missions even in dangerous enemy-controlled skies.The Ghatak project follows India’s “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) defence plan. Its purpose is to cut down dependence on foreign weapons and to strengthen India’s own military technology.The Ghatak came from an earlier idea called the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft (AURA), first shown in 2007. The goal was to build a self-controlled or autonomous combat drone (UCAV). While DRDO led the project, the design work was later given to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).In the early planning stage, the project was officially named Ghatak. In 2016, it got government approval and funding, which began the main development work.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-s-space-dream-soars-isro-s-air-drop-test-success-marks-gaganyaan-milestone-1756084248326">India’s space dream soars: ISRO’s air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone</a>Because the project is very complex, it is being developed in phases. Work first started with a test drone called the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT). This was used to check aerodynamics, self-flying or autonomous controls, and stealth features. In 2022, the prototype had its first successful flight.The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) planned to start building the full Ghatak UCAV in Bengaluru by 2024. But due to government delays and funding issues, the first full test flight is now expected only by 2025-26, and the Indian Air Force may get it by 2030.<h2>Specifications</h2>The full-size Ghatak drone will weigh around 13 tons, making it bigger than most drones in the world. Though many details are secret, here are the known points:● Weight: 13,000 kg (28,660 lbs)● Shape: Flying wing design for better stealth● Speed: High-subsonic (just below the speed of sound),usually means around 950–1,100 km/h.● Engine: First with a Russian turbofan, later may use India’s Kaveri engine (by 2035) with better efficiency and low heat signature● Payload: Can carry up to 1.5 tons of weapons and sensors inside a hidden bay for stealth● Control: Fully autonomous, but can be managed from the ground if needed● Stealth: Low radar visibility because of its special design<h2>Technical Development</h2>The most important feature of the Ghatak UCAV is its stealth ability, which needed a lot of Indian research and development. It is being developed together with the AMCA fighter jet project, so both can share stealth technologies.The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to give the drone advanced AI technology and autonomous systems. This will allow it to do automatic takeoff and landing, follow preset routes, and use smart decision-making in combat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/when-mysore-s-young-maharaja-made-india-fly-the-forgotten-hero-of-our-aviation-story-1756085551929">When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story</a>India’s military plans to build different versions of the Ghatak drone, including one for Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and air-superiority missions. Instead of a single model, there will be a family of UCAVs for different tasks. The goal is to get at least 150 Ghatak units, according to reports from Grey Dynamics UK’s intelligence platform media.<h2>Mission</h2>India is building the Ghatak drone because of ongoing tensions with Pakistan and China. It will help the Indian Air Force in long-range strikes, watching sensitive border areas, and destroying enemy air defense systems.The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) calls the Ghatak a fast, self-defending drone that can also fire weapons. Its roles will include precision strikes and ISR missions (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance).The Ghatak UCAV can also act as a “loyal wingman”, flying alongside fighter jets to do forward scouting and attack targets, while keeping the pilots at a safer distance.The 13-ton size of the Ghatak gives room for more weapons, advanced sensors, and longer missions. Its stealth design lets it enter dangerous airspaces safely without risking human pilots.<h2>Criticism and Challenges</h2>Even with good technical progress, the project is stuck due to government approvals not being cleared. This has pushed the timeline to 2030, which may create a gap in India’s military strength.In 2024, the project’s first director raised concerns after parts of the work moved from the successful ADA agency to ADE, which has a weaker track record.<h2>Conclusion</h2>The DRDO Ghatak is an important step in India’s plan to build stealth autonomous drones. It shows India’s push for homegrown defence technology focused on stealth and autonomy.The knowledge gained from this project can help build future Indian autonomous systems. But there are still challenges like engine development, government approvals, and finishing the project. Even so, the Ghatak’s role in air combat missions proves India’s growing strength in aerospace defence.

The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones.

The Ghatak (English: “deadly”) is an Indian stealth drone made for combat missions. It is a type of unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), which means it can fly and fight without a pilot inside. Because the project is highly secret, many details are not shared with the public. But the information available shows that it is an advanced and powerful weapon system for the future. The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones. The goal is to give the IAF a home-made stealth combat drone that can carry out missions even in dangerous enemy-controlled skies. The Ghatak project follows India’s “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) defence plan. Its purpose is to cut down dependence on foreign weapons and to strengthen India’s own military technology. The Ghatak came from an earlier idea called the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft (AURA), first shown in 2007. The goal was to build a self-controlled or autonomous combat drone (UCAV). While DRDO led the project, the design work was later given to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). In the early planning stage, the project was officially named Ghatak. In 2016, it got government approval and funding, which began the main development work. Also read | India’s space dream soars: ISRO’s air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone Because the project is very complex, it is being developed in phases. Work first started with a test drone called the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT). This was used to check aerodynamics, self-flying or autonomous controls, and stealth features. In 2022, the prototype had its first successful flight. The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) planned to start building the full Ghatak UCAV in Bengaluru by 2024. But due to government delays and funding issues, the first full test flight is now expected only by 2025-26, and the Indian Air Force may get it by 2030. Specifications The full-size Ghatak drone will weigh around 13 tons, making it bigger than most drones in the world. Though many details are secret, here are the known points: ● Weight: 13,000 kg (28,660 lbs) ● Shape: Flying wing design for better stealth ● Speed: High-subsonic (just below the speed of sound),usually means around 950–1,100 km/h. ● Engine: First with a Russian turbofan, later may use India’s Kaveri engine (by 2035) with better efficiency and low heat signature ● Payload: Can carry up to 1.5 tons of weapons and sensors inside a hidden bay for stealth ● Control: Fully autonomous, but can be managed from the ground if needed ● Stealth: Low radar visibility because of its special design Technical Development The most important feature of the Ghatak UCAV is its stealth ability, which needed a lot of Indian research and development. It is being developed together with the AMCA fighter jet project, so both can share stealth technologies. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to give the drone advanced AI technology and autonomous systems. This will allow it to do automatic takeoff and landing, follow preset routes, and use smart decision-making in combat. Also read | When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story India’s military plans to build different versions of the Ghatak drone, including one for Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and air-superiority missions. Instead of a single model, there will be a family of UCAVs for different tasks. The goal is to get at least 150 Ghatak units, according to reports from Grey Dynamics UK’s intelligence platform media. Mission India is building the Ghatak drone because of ongoing tensions with Pakistan and China. It will help the Indian Air Force in long-range strikes, watching sensitive border areas, and destroying enemy air defense systems. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) calls the Ghatak a fast, self-defending drone that can also fire weapons. Its roles will include precision strikes and ISR missions (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance). The Ghatak UCAV can also act as a “loyal wingman”, flying alongside fighter jets to do forward scouting and attack targets, while keeping the pilots at a safer distance. The 13-ton size of the Ghatak gives room for more weapons, advanced sensors, and longer missions. Its stealth design lets it enter dangerous airspaces safely without risking human pilots. Criticism and Challenges Even with good technical progress, the project is stuck due to government approvals not being cleared. This has pushed the timeline to 2030, which may create a gap in India’s military strength. In 2024, the project’s first director raised concerns after parts of the work moved from the successful ADA agency to ADE, which has a weaker track record. Conclusion The DRDO Ghatak is an important step in India’s plan to build stealth autonomous drones. It shows India’s push for homegrown defence technology focused on stealth and autonomy. The knowledge gained from this project can help build future Indian autonomous systems. But there are still challenges like engine development, government approvals, and finishing the project. Even so, the Ghatak’s role in air combat missions proves India’s growing strength in aerospace defence.

The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones.

Delayed but deadly: Can the Ghatak drone overcome its hurdles?

The Uttar Pradesh Police has arrested the fourth person in the dowry murder case of 28-year-old Nikki Bhati. On Monday (Aug 25), Nikki's father-in-law Satyavir was arrested hours after the arrest of her brother-in-law, Rohit Bhati. Her husband, Vipin Bhati, and mother-in-law, Daya, were arrested earlier. With this, all four named in the case have been arrested, and the probe continues. Nikki died of burn injuries at Delhi's Safdarjung hospital after she allegedly set herself on fire. However, Nikki's family has accused Vipin Bhati and his family of murdering her and has demanded a death sentence for them. Shocking details of the assault have emerged as the investigation continues in the case. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police (DGP) of Uttar Pradesh, demanding a detailed action report within three days.

<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 dowry murder case | Deceased Nikki&#39;s father-in-law has been arrested by Noida Police. This is the fourth arrest in the case so far. Nikki&#39;s brother-in-law was arrested earlier today. Her mother-in-law was arrested yesterday. The husband, Vipin Bhati,… <a href="https://t.co/8ezdJp5ud1">pic.twitter.com/8ezdJp5ud1</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959847634488774863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>New details emerge in the case</h2>Police investigating the alleged murder of Nikki have revealed that her husband, Vipin, was allegedly unhappy with her posting reels on Instagram and running a parlour. She, along with her sister Kanchan, ran a parlour and reportedly earned good money. As per reports, Vipin repeatedly asked her to give all the money to his mother, and if she refused, he tortured her. According to police, Vipin and Nikki had a huge fight over the reopening of the parlour, and when Nikki refused to listen to Vipin, he started assaulting her. The cops also revealed that Nikki was allegedly hit on the head and acid was thrown on her. Nikki's brother, Atul, said that the family was aware of the torture and assault on Nikki, but they attempted to sort the matter.&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;In an Instagram reel, Kanchan has now said Nikki tolerated a lot due to social pressures. "She has a seven-year-old son. So she was compromising a lot, hoping that today or tomorrow, everything would be fine. We didn't know this would happen," she said, thanking those who are supporting her and her family after the tragedy. Kanchan expressed regret that timely action wasn't taken on February 11-12, when Nikki left home with her seven-year-old son and went to her parents' home in Dadri, suggesting that doing so could have prevented the tragic outcome. She added that many decisions were made keeping “social traditions” in mind. As per reports, when Nikki left home in February, a panchayat meeting was called, where Vipin apologised and promised that he would never hit her again, after which Nikki returned.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/womens-day-feels-hollow-when-safety-is-still-a-privilege-rape-case-in-india-dowry-deaths-8834967">Women’s Day feels hollow when safety is still a privilege</a><h2>What is Nikki Bhati's dowry death case?</h2>28-year-old Nikki Bhati was rushed to the hospital with burn injuries, but lost her life during treatment at the Safdarjung Hospital of Delhi on Aug 21. It was initially claimed that she died by suicide by setting herself on fire. However, later, it was alleged that her in-laws and husband burnt her alive over a Rs 36-lakh dowry demand. &nbsp;Nikki's father, Bhikari Singh Payla, said that he wished the accused to be shot and their homes to be razed. Notably, Nikki's sister Kanchan is also married in the same family. Multiple reports have claimed that Nikki was attacked by her husband, dragged by the hair and set on fire in front of her son and her sister. A case has been registered against four family members, namely, Vipin (husband), her father-in-law, Daya (her mother-in-law), and her sister’s husband.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-conditioning-missing-from-venue-bride-calls-off-wedding-says-life-will-be-hell-1749635694774">Air conditioning missing from venue, bride calls off wedding, says 'life will be hell'</a>

In the dowry death case of Nikki Bhati, Noida Police arrested her father-in-law, the fourth accused. Nikki's family alleges she was murdered by her in-laws over dowry. Sister Kanchan revealed that she allegedly faced abuse

The Uttar Pradesh Police has arrested the fourth person in the dowry murder case of 28-year-old Nikki Bhati. On Monday (Aug 25), Nikki's father-in-law Satyavir was arrested hours after the arrest of her brother-in-law, Rohit Bhati. Her husband, Vipin Bhati, and mother-in-law, Daya, were arrested earlier. With this, all four named in the case have been arrested, and the probe continues. Nikki died of burn injuries at Delhi's Safdarjung hospital after she allegedly set herself on fire. However, Nikki's family has accused Vipin Bhati and his family of murdering her and has demanded a death sentence for them. Shocking details of the assault have emerged as the investigation continues in the case. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police (DGP) of Uttar Pradesh, demanding a detailed action report within three days.

In the dowry death case of Nikki Bhati, Noida Police arrested her father-in-law, the fourth accused. Nikki's family alleges she was murdered by her in-laws over dowry. Sister Kanchan revealed that she allegedly faced abuse

'Lot of decisions made for social traditions': All four accused in Nikki Bhati's dowry murder case arrested; sister makes big revelation

As the roar of aircraft engines fills the skies over Mysore during Dasara 2025's spectacular aeroshow, few spectators will know they are witnessing a tribute to one of India's most overlooked heroes. The thunderous display above is not just entertainment – it's a long-overdue salute to Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, the visionary young royal who literally made India's aviation dreams take flight.<h2>The Man Who Said Yes When Everyone Else Said No</h2>Picture this: It's 1940, and India has no aircraft manufacturing capability. American businessman William Pawley and Indian industrialist Walchand Hirachand have a revolutionary idea – build planes in India. They approach multiple maharajas across the country, seeking support for this ambitious venture.The rulers of Baroda, Gwalior, and Bhavanagar all decline. Even shareholders of established companies reject the proposal as too risky. But when they reach Mysore in October 1940, something extraordinary happens. The 27-year-old Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who had just ascended the throne barely a month earlier after his uncle Krishna Raja Wadiyar's death, sees what others cannot – the future of Indian aviation.<h2>From Tragedy to Vision in Record Time</h2>The young Maharaja had inherited his throne on September 8, 1940, following his uncle's death on August 3. Within weeks of becoming ruler, he faced a decision that would shape India's industrial future. When Walchand and Pawley landed in Bangalore that October, they found not just a willing partner, but a visionary leader ready to bet his kingdom's resources on an impossible dream.What happened next reads like a business miracle. The project had already received British approval in July 1940 within 72 hours of Pawley's presentation at Simla. But it was the young Maharaja's decisive support that transformed possibility into reality.<h2>The Speed of Royal Vision</h2>The Maharaja didn't just offer symbolic support. He gave 700 acres of prime land absolutely free, invested a massive Rs. 25 lakhs (equivalent to hundreds of crores today), and provided complete governmental backing. The Mysore Government Order No: D 3663-372/10C 216-40-16 dated February 11, 1941, made it official.On December 23, 1940, Hindustan Aircraft Company was incorporated under the Mysore Companies Act. Work began the very next day on December 24. The foundation was laid on January 12, 1941. Within just three weeks, the first building and runway were ready. By August 29, 1941, the company handed over its first Harlow trainer aircraft to the Government of India.This wasn't just fast – it was lightning speed in an era without modern construction equipment or communication technology. The young Maharaja's administration moved with urgency that would make today's startup founders envious.<h2>A Patriot's Sacrifice Over Profit</h2>When Pearl Harbour changed the war's trajectory in December 1941, and attacks on India became a real threat, the Government of India decided to take complete control of the facility. While private investor Walchand made a handsome profit of Rs. 57 lakhs on his Rs. 25 lakh investment, the Maharaja's approach was strikingly different.In April 1942, when GOI bought out Walchand's shares for Rs. 82.11 lakhs, the Maharaja refused to sell his stake. Instead, he handed over complete control to the Government of India until "2 years after end of war," asking only for a modest solatium of Rs. 12.11 lakhs to cover sterilised interest during wartime. His priority wasn't profit – it was national service.The factory became the 84th Air Depot under the United States Army Air Forces, rapidly expanding to become one of the largest aircraft overhaul and repair organisations in the East. From April 1946, Mysore State again became an active partner until the final transition.<h2>The Birth of HAL and a Forgotten Legacy</h2>On October 1, 1964, Hindustan Aircraft Limited merged with Aeronautics India Limited to form Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This merger created one of Asia's largest aerospace companies, but it also buried the memory of its royal founder.Today, HAL operates 11 research centers, 21 manufacturing divisions, and has an annual turnover exceeding $3 billion. Yet when we celebrate HAL as a symbol of Indian aerospace prowess, we rarely remember its origins. HAL's official records acknowledge the company was established "in association with the Kingdom of Mysore," but they fail to properly honour Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar – the visionary who provided the land, investment, and unwavering support that made Indian aviation possible.This historical amnesia is not just unfair – it's a disservice to understanding how modern India was built. The young Maharaja didn't just invest money; he invested faith in India's industrial future when few others dared to dream so big.<h2>The Ultimate Homecoming</h2>The Mysore Dasara 2025 aeroshow is more than a spectacular display of aerobatic skills and modern aircraft. It's the ultimate homecoming celebration – aircraft returning to the skies above the land where Indian aviation was born 84 years ago, and where HAL took its final form 61 years ago in 1964.As we watch pilots perform death-defying stunts and marvel at cutting-edge fighter jets, let's remember the 27-year-old Maharaja who, barely a month into his reign, bet his kingdom's resources on a crazy idea called "manufacturing aircraft in India." His vision soared higher than any plane that flies today.Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.That legacy deserves to be remembered, celebrated, and honoured every time an Indian aircraft takes to the skies. The aeroshow over Mysore isn't just about the present – it's a tribute to the past that made our aviation future possible.

Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.

As the roar of aircraft engines fills the skies over Mysore during Dasara 2025's spectacular aeroshow, few spectators will know they are witnessing a tribute to one of India's most overlooked heroes. The thunderous display above is not just entertainment – it's a long-overdue salute to Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, the visionary young royal who literally made India's aviation dreams take flight. The Man Who Said Yes When Everyone Else Said No Picture this: It's 1940, and India has no aircraft manufacturing capability. American businessman William Pawley and Indian industrialist Walchand Hirachand have a revolutionary idea – build planes in India. They approach multiple maharajas across the country, seeking support for this ambitious venture. The rulers of Baroda, Gwalior, and Bhavanagar all decline. Even shareholders of established companies reject the proposal as too risky. But when they reach Mysore in October 1940, something extraordinary happens. The 27-year-old Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who had just ascended the throne barely a month earlier after his uncle Krishna Raja Wadiyar's death, sees what others cannot – the future of Indian aviation. From Tragedy to Vision in Record Time The young Maharaja had inherited his throne on September 8, 1940, following his uncle's death on August 3. Within weeks of becoming ruler, he faced a decision that would shape India's industrial future. When Walchand and Pawley landed in Bangalore that October, they found not just a willing partner, but a visionary leader ready to bet his kingdom's resources on an impossible dream. What happened next reads like a business miracle. The project had already received British approval in July 1940 within 72 hours of Pawley's presentation at Simla. But it was the young Maharaja's decisive support that transformed possibility into reality. The Speed of Royal Vision The Maharaja didn't just offer symbolic support. He gave 700 acres of prime land absolutely free, invested a massive Rs. 25 lakhs (equivalent to hundreds of crores today), and provided complete governmental backing. The Mysore Government Order No: D 3663-372/10C 216-40-16 dated February 11, 1941, made it official. On December 23, 1940, Hindustan Aircraft Company was incorporated under the Mysore Companies Act. Work began the very next day on December 24. The foundation was laid on January 12, 1941. Within just three weeks, the first building and runway were ready. By August 29, 1941, the company handed over its first Harlow trainer aircraft to the Government of India. This wasn't just fast – it was lightning speed in an era without modern construction equipment or communication technology. The young Maharaja's administration moved with urgency that would make today's startup founders envious. A Patriot's Sacrifice Over Profit When Pearl Harbour changed the war's trajectory in December 1941, and attacks on India became a real threat, the Government of India decided to take complete control of the facility. While private investor Walchand made a handsome profit of Rs. 57 lakhs on his Rs. 25 lakh investment, the Maharaja's approach was strikingly different. In April 1942, when GOI bought out Walchand's shares for Rs. 82.11 lakhs, the Maharaja refused to sell his stake. Instead, he handed over complete control to the Government of India until "2 years after end of war," asking only for a modest solatium of Rs. 12.11 lakhs to cover sterilised interest during wartime. His priority wasn't profit – it was national service. The factory became the 84th Air Depot under the United States Army Air Forces, rapidly expanding to become one of the largest aircraft overhaul and repair organisations in the East. From April 1946, Mysore State again became an active partner until the final transition. The Birth of HAL and a Forgotten Legacy On October 1, 1964, Hindustan Aircraft Limited merged with Aeronautics India Limited to form Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This merger created one of Asia's largest aerospace companies, but it also buried the memory of its royal founder. Today, HAL operates 11 research centers, 21 manufacturing divisions, and has an annual turnover exceeding $3 billion. Yet when we celebrate HAL as a symbol of Indian aerospace prowess, we rarely remember its origins. HAL's official records acknowledge the company was established "in association with the Kingdom of Mysore," but they fail to properly honour Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar – the visionary who provided the land, investment, and unwavering support that made Indian aviation possible. This historical amnesia is not just unfair – it's a disservice to understanding how modern India was built. The young Maharaja didn't just invest money; he invested faith in India's industrial future when few others dared to dream so big. The Ultimate Homecoming The Mysore Dasara 2025 aeroshow is more than a spectacular display of aerobatic skills and modern aircraft. It's the ultimate homecoming celebration – aircraft returning to the skies above the land where Indian aviation was born 84 years ago, and where HAL took its final form 61 years ago in 1964. As we watch pilots perform death-defying stunts and marvel at cutting-edge fighter jets, let's remember the 27-year-old Maharaja who, barely a month into his reign, bet his kingdom's resources on a crazy idea called "manufacturing aircraft in India." His vision soared higher than any plane that flies today. Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain. That legacy deserves to be remembered, celebrated, and honoured every time an Indian aircraft takes to the skies. The aeroshow over Mysore isn't just about the present – it's a tribute to the past that made our aviation future possible.

Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.

When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (Aug 25) spoke about the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill and criticised the Opposition for opposing it. He also broke the silence on the sudden resignation of former Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Criticising the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the Home Minister said that Congress should look into their poll losses and not outrightly oppose everything that the Central government does. When asked about NDA's Vice Presidential candidate, Shah said that it should be natural to pick a candidate from South India. In a big statement, Home Minister Shah blamed the previous Congress government's misunderstanding of Salwa Judum as the sole reason for the increase in left-wing extremism in the country. In the same statement, he slammed the Opposition's Vice Presidential pick, giving weightage to claims that Retired Supreme Court Judge B Sudershan Reddy is a “left-wing sympathiser.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amit-shah-completes-2-258-days-in-office-becomes-india-s-largest-serving-home-minister-1754462684459/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/amit-shah-completes-2-258-days-in-office-becomes-india-s-largest-serving-home-minister-1754462684459/embed</a><h2>Home Minister Amit Shah about Jagdeep Dhankhar&nbsp;</h2>In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah addressed rumours about ‘house arrest’ of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar after his sudden resignation. Shah clarified that former Dhankhar resigned due to health reasons, as stated in his letter. He also dismissed opposition claims of "house arrest," urging not to politicise the issue and emphasising that Dhankhar left after fulfilling his constitutional service. The clarification by the Home Minister came after opposition leaders claimed that Dhankhar was "silenced" by the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-those-who-speak-english-will-soon-feel-ashamed-amit-shah-stresses-indian-languages-are-jewels-of-our-culture-1750340227902">'Those who speak English will soon feel ashamed': Amit Shah stresses Indian languages are ‘jewels of our culture’</a><h2>Home Minister Amit Shah questions the Opposition's V-P pick</h2>In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah slammed the Opposition for picking retired Supreme Court judge B Sudarshan Reddy as their Vice Presidential pick, while talking about left-wing extremism. He alleged that Reddy is soft towards left-wing extremism and criticised the former Congress governments for not understanding the threat of left-wing extremism. He asked the INDIA alliance to answer as to why they picked a judge whose ruling on the "armed civilian vigilante group" prevented the eradication of Naxals before 2020. Shah was referring to a July 2011 judgment that Justice Reddy co-authored with Justice SS Nijjar, in which the duo disbanded Salwa Judum in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, for being illegal and unconstitutional. The ruling was delivered while the BJP under chief minister Raman Singh was in power in Chhattisgarh. Justice Reddy's ruling said that the Salwa Judum was an “abdication of constitutional responsibilities of the State to provide appropriate security to citizens by having an appropriately trained professional police force of sufficient numbers and properly equipped on a permanent basis.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-pm-modi-bringing-himself-into-the-ambit-of-law-congress-did-reverse-in-indira-rule-amit-shah-1755693331600">PM Modi bringing himself into the ambit of law, Congress did reverse in Indira rule: Amit Shah</a><h2>Home Minister Amit Shah&nbsp;speaks about the Constitution Amendment Bill</h2>In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah lashed out at the Opposition for their protest against the Constitution Bill. He defended the bill that seeks to remove the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers who would be in jail for 30 consecutive days. He asked if a country can be run from jail and if it can be called a democracy. "I want to tell the entire country about the 130th Amendment. In this amendment, we have made a provision that if the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, or any leader from the central or state government faces serious allegations and gets arrested, and if they do not get bail within 30 days, then they must leave their position. If they don't resign, they will be removed from their post by law. This is what we have included in the 130th Amendment," he explained.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-becomes-india-s-longest-serving-home-minister-1754395827652">Amit Shah becomes India's longest-serving Home Minister</a><h2>Home Minister Amit Shah slams Congress</h2>In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that Congress is creating “illusion” in the minds of people. “We talk to the people. We haven't just come here and sat by chance. After losing three elections, I think the level of frustration is such that the normal sense of judgment, he (Rahul Gandhi) has lost it.”&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised the Opposition for rejecting the 130th Amendment Bill and urged Congress to reflect on its poll losses. He supported choosing a Vice President from South India and blamed Congress’s stance on Salwa Judum for rising extremism

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (Aug 25) spoke about the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill and criticised the Opposition for opposing it. He also broke the silence on the sudden resignation of former Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Criticising the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the Home Minister said that Congress should look into their poll losses and not outrightly oppose everything that the Central government does. When asked about NDA's Vice Presidential candidate, Shah said that it should be natural to pick a candidate from South India. In a big statement, Home Minister Shah blamed the previous Congress government's misunderstanding of Salwa Judum as the sole reason for the increase in left-wing extremism in the country. In the same statement, he slammed the Opposition's Vice Presidential pick, giving weightage to claims that Retired Supreme Court Judge B Sudershan Reddy is a “left-wing sympathiser.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/amit-shah-completes-2-258-days-in-office-becomes-india-s-largest-serving-home-minister-1754462684459/embed Home Minister Amit Shah about Jagdeep Dhankhar In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah addressed rumours about ‘house arrest’ of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar after his sudden resignation. Shah clarified that former Dhankhar resigned due to health reasons, as stated in his letter. He also dismissed opposition claims of "house arrest," urging not to politicise the issue and emphasising that Dhankhar left after fulfilling his constitutional service. The clarification by the Home Minister came after opposition leaders claimed that Dhankhar was "silenced" by the government. Read More | 'Those who speak English will soon feel ashamed': Amit Shah stresses Indian languages are ‘jewels of our culture’ Home Minister Amit Shah questions the Opposition's V-P pick In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah slammed the Opposition for picking retired Supreme Court judge B Sudarshan Reddy as their Vice Presidential pick, while talking about left-wing extremism. He alleged that Reddy is soft towards left-wing extremism and criticised the former Congress governments for not understanding the threat of left-wing extremism. He asked the INDIA alliance to answer as to why they picked a judge whose ruling on the "armed civilian vigilante group" prevented the eradication of Naxals before 2020. Shah was referring to a July 2011 judgment that Justice Reddy co-authored with Justice SS Nijjar, in which the duo disbanded Salwa Judum in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, for being illegal and unconstitutional. The ruling was delivered while the BJP under chief minister Raman Singh was in power in Chhattisgarh. Justice Reddy's ruling said that the Salwa Judum was an “abdication of constitutional responsibilities of the State to provide appropriate security to citizens by having an appropriately trained professional police force of sufficient numbers and properly equipped on a permanent basis.” Read More | PM Modi bringing himself into the ambit of law, Congress did reverse in Indira rule: Amit Shah Home Minister Amit Shah speaks about the Constitution Amendment Bill In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah lashed out at the Opposition for their protest against the Constitution Bill. He defended the bill that seeks to remove the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers who would be in jail for 30 consecutive days. He asked if a country can be run from jail and if it can be called a democracy. "I want to tell the entire country about the 130th Amendment. In this amendment, we have made a provision that if the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, or any leader from the central or state government faces serious allegations and gets arrested, and if they do not get bail within 30 days, then they must leave their position. If they don't resign, they will be removed from their post by law. This is what we have included in the 130th Amendment," he explained. Read More | Amit Shah becomes India's longest-serving Home Minister Home Minister Amit Shah slams Congress In an interview with the Indian news agency ANI, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that Congress is creating “illusion” in the minds of people. “We talk to the people. We haven't just come here and sat by chance. After losing three elections, I think the level of frustration is such that the normal sense of judgment, he (Rahul Gandhi) has lost it.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised the Opposition for rejecting the 130th Amendment Bill and urged Congress to reflect on its poll losses. He supported choosing a Vice President from South India and blamed Congress’s stance on Salwa Judum for rising extremism

From bill to sack PM, CMs to Dhankhar's 'house arrest': Indian Home minister Amit Shah addresses top controversies

As the Supreme Court of India has mellowed its previous judgment on stray dogs in Delhi NCR, Faridabad’s municipal corporation has had a plan in place for around three years now. The authority had been running a programme in tandem with an NGO People for Animals (PFA) to vaccinate, treat and release the dogs into the community. They also utilised technology to monitor and track progress. The microchips in the digital IDs would help track the details. It contains records of where the dog has been picked up from and released after it is released, an official told news outlet Times of India. These measures have reduced the conflicts involving stray dogs.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/supreme-court-orders-action-against-street-feeders-stray-dogs-to-be-sterilised-and-released-1755857662719/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/supreme-court-orders-action-against-street-feeders-stray-dogs-to-be-sterilised-and-released-1755857662719/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Since the work is transparent and fair, students are coming here to observe and learn how the operations are managed,” the official told news outlet TOI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccinated-dogs-to-be-re-released-supreme-court-order-a-relief-for-dog-lovers-1755839599832">Vaccinated stray dogs to be re-released: Supreme Court order, a relief for dog lovers</a>&nbsp;Vrinda Sharma from PFA was quoted, “Feeders help identify and safely catch dogs. Since dogs are familiar with them, the process becomes easier. Feeding is a constitutional right. No one should prevent people from feeding community dogs.”&nbsp;<h2>Animal Birth Control (ABC):</h2>&nbsp;This is one of the procedures followed by the centre, which keeps a tab on every step of sterilisation. And the technology used during the process can then be utilised to track and trace the animals, even after they are released back on the streets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-supreme-court-order-big-direction-to-stray-dog-feeders-top-points-on-verdict-1755848998946">In Supreme Court order, big direction to stray dog feeders | Top points on verdict</a>&nbsp;This centre was operational in 2024, and since then, it has sterilised over 3,500 dogs and released them back into the community. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This Delhi NCR municipal corporation has had a plan in place even before the Supreme Court mellowed its stance. The authority used technology to track and keep record of the stray dogs.

As the Supreme Court of India has mellowed its previous judgment on stray dogs in Delhi NCR, Faridabad’s municipal corporation has had a plan in place for around three years now. The authority had been running a programme in tandem with an NGO People for Animals (PFA) to vaccinate, treat and release the dogs into the community. They also utilised technology to monitor and track progress. The microchips in the digital IDs would help track the details. It contains records of where the dog has been picked up from and released after it is released, an official told news outlet Times of India. These measures have reduced the conflicts involving stray dogs. https://www.wionews.com/videos/supreme-court-orders-action-against-street-feeders-stray-dogs-to-be-sterilised-and-released-1755857662719/embed “Since the work is transparent and fair, students are coming here to observe and learn how the operations are managed,” the official told news outlet TOI. Also read: Vaccinated stray dogs to be re-released: Supreme Court order, a relief for dog lovers Vrinda Sharma from PFA was quoted, “Feeders help identify and safely catch dogs. Since dogs are familiar with them, the process becomes easier. Feeding is a constitutional right. No one should prevent people from feeding community dogs.” Animal Birth Control (ABC): This is one of the procedures followed by the centre, which keeps a tab on every step of sterilisation. And the technology used during the process can then be utilised to track and trace the animals, even after they are released back on the streets. Also read: In Supreme Court order, big direction to stray dog feeders | Top points on verdict This centre was operational in 2024, and since then, it has sterilised over 3,500 dogs and released them back into the community.

This Delhi NCR municipal corporation has had a plan in place even before the Supreme Court mellowed its stance. The authority used technology to track and keep record of the stray dogs.

Even before SC street dog ruling, THIS Delhi NCR location used microchips and other tech for welfare of strays

A fresh spell of rain lashed Delhi-NCR on Monday morning, accompanied by cloudy skies. In response, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the day, warning of light showers and thunderstorms across Delhi. The IMD also warned of disruption in traffic movement in the national capital as intermittent rainfall is likely to continue throughout the day.

<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 wakes up to a fresh spell of rain over several parts of the National Capital. Visuals from ITO. <a href="https://t.co/HJDAt8mtt7">pic.twitter.com/HJDAt8mtt7</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1959780708941218183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As per the Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi, several areas of Delhi and nearby regions are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning. The region includes Gurugram, Greater Noida, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh, and Bahadurgarh, along with several towns in Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh.<h3>Airlines issue advisory</h3>According to a report in India Today, the IMD also predicted light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms until August 30 across Delhi. Meanwhile, after a fresh spell on Monday, several airlines issued travel advisories for their passengers.&nbsp;“Due to bad weather (heavy rain) in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may be affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status,” the SpiceJet stated on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeatherUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeatherUpdate</a>: Due to bad weather (heavy rain) 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 <a href="https://t.co/2wynECZugy">https://t.co/2wynECZugy</a>.&mdash; SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet/status/1959771246708801681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

IndiGo, and Air India also issued advisories for passengers on Monday over flight operations to and from Delhi following rain. "Rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport," wrote Air India on X.&nbsp;IndiGo advised the travellers to go for alternate routes due to the heavy rain in the national capital. "Due to today’s downpour, several roads across Delhi are currently blocked or experiencing slow movement. Please allow extra time, take an alternate route if possible, and check your flight status on our website or app before leaving for the airport," the airline wrote on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Travel Advisory 🚧⛈️Heads-up, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> travellers! Due to today’s downpour, several roads across Delhi are currently blocked or experiencing slow movement. Please allow extra time, take an alternate route if possible, and check your flight status on our website or app before…&mdash; IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1959813527876591857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Several regions of Delhi and NCR are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi. The region includes Gurugram, Greater Noida, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh, and Bahadurgarh.

A fresh spell of rain lashed Delhi-NCR on Monday morning, accompanied by cloudy skies. In response, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the day, warning of light showers and thunderstorms across Delhi. The IMD also warned of disruption in traffic movement in the national capital as intermittent rainfall is likely to continue throughout the day.

Several regions of Delhi and NCR are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi. The region includes Gurugram, Greater Noida, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh, and Bahadurgarh.

IMD issues 'Yellow Alert' after fresh spell lashes Delhi-NCR, airlines issue advisory

Travelling in the Delhi Metro just got costlier. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has confirmed that fares will go up starting Monday (August 25). This marks the first Delhi Metro fare hike since 2017. In a post on X, DMRC said that the rate revision was modest, with fares hiked by Re 1 to Rs 4 across most lines, while tickets on the Airport Line will cost up to Rs 5 more.<h2>What did the DMRC say about metro fare hike?</h2>Responding to an X user's post asking "are the fares increasing," Delhi Metro Rail Corporation said, "This is to confirm that Delhi Metro fares will be revised with effect from tomorrow, i.e., 25th August 2025. The revision will be nominal, with fares increasing by ₹1 to ₹4. The &nbsp;fares on the Airport Line will increase by up to ₹5."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This is to confirm that Delhi Metro fares will be revised with effect from tomorrow, i.e., 25th August 2025. The revision will be nominal, with fares increasing by ₹1 to ₹4. The fares on the Airport Line will increase by up to ₹5.&mdash; Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDMRC/status/1959663705312145803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>New fare slabs</h2>In another post, the DMRC revealed that the new fare would differ on weekdays and weekends. As per a table it shared, on weekdays (i.e. from Monday to Saturday), the fare would be:<ul><li>For 0–2 km: Rs 11</li><li>2–5 km: Rs 21</li><li>5–12 km: Rs 32</li><li>12–21 km: Rs 43</li><li>21–32 km: Rs 54</li><li>Beyond 32 km: Rs 64</li></ul>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The passenger fares of the Delhi Metro services have been revised with effect from today, that is, 25th August 2025 (Monday) onwards. The increase is minimal, ranging from ₹ 1 to ₹ 4 only depending on the distance of travel (upto ₹5 for the Airport Express Line). The new fare… <a href="https://t.co/gOgOGmebxz">pic.twitter.com/gOgOGmebxz</a>&mdash; Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDMRC/status/1959791088971251958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Fare change for Sundays &amp; national holidays&nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, on Sundays and national holidays, the fare would be a bit cheaper. For years, fares have been cheaper on Sundays and national holidays to encourage higher ridership on non-working days, promoting public transport usage when roads are typically busier with leisure travel.&nbsp;<ul><li>0–2 km: Rs 11</li><li>2–5 km: Rs 11</li><li>5–12 km: Rs 21</li><li>12–21 km: Rs 32</li><li>21–32 km: Rs 43</li><li>Beyond 32 km: Rs 54</li></ul>It added that “A similar increase has also been implemented for the Airport Express Line (AEL), where the increase ranges from ₹ 1 to ₹ 5.” The time limits, however, remain unchanged — 65 minutes for trips up to 2 km, 100 minutes for 12–21 km, and 180 minutes for over 21 km.<h2>Public reaction</h2>The fare increase hasn’t gone down well with commuters. Many on social media asked why prices were raised without any new facilities in return. “I travel on a daily basis and pay two way fare still me and so people face issues in metro after paying fare like No seat availability, so much rush on peak hours. If @OfficialDMRC can't provide seat for people than why increased fare,” one user wrote. “Without any prior notification to the public DMRC has announced fare increased with immediate effect. I travel to and fro to Millineum Centre to Delhi and back previously it cost Rs. 54/- one sided by Card and now it is Rs. 60/-. It is too much of a nonsense decision for DMRC,” complained another. &nbsp;

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on X confirmed that the fares for Delhi metro service are being hiked starting Monday (Aug 25). Here’s how much your next metro ride will cost — scroll to see the new fares.

Travelling in the Delhi Metro just got costlier. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has confirmed that fares will go up starting Monday (August 25). This marks the first Delhi Metro fare hike since 2017. In a post on X, DMRC said that the rate revision was modest, with fares hiked by Re 1 to Rs 4 across most lines, while tickets on the Airport Line will cost up to Rs 5 more. What did the DMRC say about metro fare hike? Responding to an X user's post asking "are the fares increasing," Delhi Metro Rail Corporation said, "This is to confirm that Delhi Metro fares will be revised with effect from tomorrow, i.e., 25th August 2025. The revision will be nominal, with fares increasing by ₹1 to ₹4. The fares on the Airport Line will increase by up to ₹5."

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on X confirmed that the fares for Delhi metro service are being hiked starting Monday (Aug 25). Here’s how much your next metro ride will cost — scroll to see the new fares.

Delhi metro fare hike: DMRC raises ticket prices for first time in 8 years. Here's all you need to know

In a fresh development in the dowry and suicide case of Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati, mother-in-law Daya and her brother-in-law were arrested on Monday (Aug 25). It has also been revealed that Vipin was allegedly unhappy with Nikki posting reels on Instagram and running a parlour. According to police, Vipin and Nikki had a huge fight over the reopening of the parlour. Kasna station house officer Dharmendra Shukla said that Vipin started assaulting her when she tried convincing him about the reopening of her parlour. The cops also revealed that Nikki was allegedly hit on the head and acid was thrown on her. Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is married in the same household, was also allegedly assaulted.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-conditioning-missing-from-venue-bride-calls-off-wedding-says-life-will-be-hell-1749635694774">Air conditioning missing from venue, bride calls off wedding, says 'life will be hell'</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meghalaya-murder-case-all-five-accused-including-sonam-sent-to-8-day-police-custody-1749657939122/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/meghalaya-murder-case-all-five-accused-including-sonam-sent-to-8-day-police-custody-1749657939122/embed</a><h2>What is Nikki Bhati's dowry death case?</h2>28-year-old Nikki Bhati allegedly died by suicide by setting herself on fire over a Rs 36-lakh dowry demand by her in-laws in Greater Noida. Bhati was rushed to the hospital with burn injuries, but she lost her life during treatment at the Safdarjung Hospital of Delhi on Aug 21. Nikki's family accused her husband, Vipin Bhati and his mother, Daya, of setting Nikki on fire. Nikki's father, Bhikari Singh Payla, said that he wished the accused to be shot and their homes to be razed. Notably, Nikki's sister Kanchan is also married in the same family. Multiple reports have claimed that Nikki was attacked by her husband, dragged by the hair and set on fire in front of her son and her sister. A case has been registered against four family members, namely, Vipin (husband), her father-in-law, Daya (her mother-in-law), and her sister’s husband.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/womens-day-feels-hollow-when-safety-is-still-a-privilege-rape-case-in-india-dowry-deaths-8834967">Women’s Day feels hollow when safety is still a privilege</a>&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/even-20-day-old-daughters-are-being-sold-in-marriage-in-afghanistan-says-unicef-official-429284">Even 20-day-old daughters are being 'sold in marriage' in Afghanistan, says UNICEF official</a>

 Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati was allegedly assaulted by her in-laws and her husband, Vipin over dowry. She allegedly died after setting herself on fire. However, Nikki's family alleged that she was burnt by Vipin and his family. A new angle of Instagram reel has also emerged

In a fresh development in the dowry and suicide case of Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati, mother-in-law Daya and her brother-in-law were arrested on Monday (Aug 25). It has also been revealed that Vipin was allegedly unhappy with Nikki posting reels on Instagram and running a parlour. According to police, Vipin and Nikki had a huge fight over the reopening of the parlour. Kasna station house officer Dharmendra Shukla said that Vipin started assaulting her when she tried convincing him about the reopening of her parlour. The cops also revealed that Nikki was allegedly hit on the head and acid was thrown on her. Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is married in the same household, was also allegedly assaulted. Read More | Air conditioning missing from venue, bride calls off wedding, says 'life will be hell' https://www.wionews.com/videos/meghalaya-murder-case-all-five-accused-including-sonam-sent-to-8-day-police-custody-1749657939122/embed What is Nikki Bhati's dowry death case? 28-year-old Nikki Bhati allegedly died by suicide by setting herself on fire over a Rs 36-lakh dowry demand by her in-laws in Greater Noida. Bhati was rushed to the hospital with burn injuries, but she lost her life during treatment at the Safdarjung Hospital of Delhi on Aug 21. Nikki's family accused her husband, Vipin Bhati and his mother, Daya, of setting Nikki on fire. Nikki's father, Bhikari Singh Payla, said that he wished the accused to be shot and their homes to be razed. Notably, Nikki's sister Kanchan is also married in the same family. Multiple reports have claimed that Nikki was attacked by her husband, dragged by the hair and set on fire in front of her son and her sister. A case has been registered against four family members, namely, Vipin (husband), her father-in-law, Daya (her mother-in-law), and her sister’s husband. Read More | Women’s Day feels hollow when safety is still a privilege Read More | Even 20-day-old daughters are being 'sold in marriage' in Afghanistan, says UNICEF official

Greater Noida resident Nikki Bhati was allegedly assaulted by her in-laws and her husband, Vipin over dowry. She allegedly died after setting herself on fire. However, Nikki's family alleged that she was burnt by Vipin and his family. A new angle of Instagram reel has also emerged

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