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Nearly a month and a half after the devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, Air India on Saturday (Jul 26) said in a statement that it has disbursed interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh each to 166 families of the victims of the AI-171 crash to “help them meet their immediate financial needs.” It added that so far, the interim compensation has been released to the families of 147 of the 229 deceased passengers and the 19 who lost their lives at the site of the accident.&nbsp;“Over a month ago, Air India started releasing interim payment of Rs 25 lakh ($28,900) to the affected families, to help them meet their immediate financial needs. The interim payment will be adjusted against any final compensation,” the airline said in the statement. “Air India has, so far, released the interim compensation to the families of 147 of the 229 deceased passengers and also the 19 who lost their lives at the accident site.”&nbsp;Air India added that the requisite documents of 52 others have been verified, and interim compensation will be released to those families progressively. It added that ‘The AI-171 Memorial and Welfare Trust’ has been registered by the Tata Group. The Trust is dedicated to the victims of the crash.&nbsp;“The Trust has pledged an ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore in respect of each of the deceased, and support for rebuilding the B.J. Medical College Hostel infrastructure, which was damaged in the accident,” the statement read.&nbsp;The Trust will also provide aid and assistance for any trauma or distress suffered by the first responders, medical workers, social workers, disaster relief professionals, and government staff, who provided support and service in the aftermath of the tragic incident.&nbsp;On June 12, a London-bound Air India plane carrying 242 passengers and crew crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 260 people. While 241 passengers died, leaving one survivor onboard, 19 others were killed on the ground.

Air India has released interim compensation to 166 families of the victims who died in the June 12 plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Nearly a month and a half after the devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, Air India on Saturday (Jul 26) said in a statement that it has disbursed interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh each to 166 families of the victims of the AI-171 crash to “help them meet their immediate financial needs.” It added that so far, the interim compensation has been released to the families of 147 of the 229 deceased passengers and the 19 who lost their lives at the site of the accident. “Over a month ago, Air India started releasing interim payment of Rs 25 lakh ($28,900) to the affected families, to help them meet their immediate financial needs. The interim payment will be adjusted against any final compensation,” the airline said in the statement. “Air India has, so far, released the interim compensation to the families of 147 of the 229 deceased passengers and also the 19 who lost their lives at the accident site.” Air India added that the requisite documents of 52 others have been verified, and interim compensation will be released to those families progressively. It added that ‘The AI-171 Memorial and Welfare Trust’ has been registered by the Tata Group. The Trust is dedicated to the victims of the crash. “The Trust has pledged an ex-gratia payment of Rs 1 crore in respect of each of the deceased, and support for rebuilding the B.J. Medical College Hostel infrastructure, which was damaged in the accident,” the statement read. The Trust will also provide aid and assistance for any trauma or distress suffered by the first responders, medical workers, social workers, disaster relief professionals, and government staff, who provided support and service in the aftermath of the tragic incident. On June 12, a London-bound Air India plane carrying 242 passengers and crew crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 260 people. While 241 passengers died, leaving one survivor onboard, 19 others were killed on the ground.

Air India has released interim compensation to 166 families of the victims who died in the June 12 plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Ahmedabad plane crash: Air India releases interim compensation to 166 families

India is fast emerging as a major hub for smartphone manufacturing and has significantly increased its share in imports of smartphones by the US, thereby challenging China’s long-standing dominance in the field. In the first five months of 2025, nearly one in three smartphones imported into the US was manufactured in India—a sharp rise from just 11% in 2024 to over 30%.&nbsp;According to data from the US International Trade Commission (USITC), US smartphone imports from India have tripled to 21.3 million units in just the first five months of 2025. In terms of value, the imports surged by 182% to $9.35 billion—surpassing the roughly $7 billion recorded for all of 2024.&nbsp;This surge in smartphone exports is largely driven by Apple, which has been relocating its manufacturing operations to India. In May, Apple CEO Tim Cook suggested that a significant portion of iPhones sold in the US during the April–June quarter would be sourced from India. Currently, India accounts for around 20% of Apple’s global iPhone production—a strategic move encouraged by India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. The PLI scheme was designed to boost domestic smartphone manufacturing by incentivising global brands to set up their assembly facilities in India.&nbsp;<h2>China’s share sees big fall</h2>&nbsp;In contrast, China, which still remains the largest exporter of phones, saw its share of US smartphone imports drastically fall from 82 per cent to 49 per cent in the five-month period. China exported 29.4 million smartphones to the US during January and May, marking a 27 per cent year-on-year decline but still worth around $10 billion. India ranked second with 21.3 million units ahead of third-placed Vietnam with total exports to the US at 8.3 million units, contributing 14 per cent of the total imports.However, the change in smartphone production trend now faces some challenge as President Donald Trump had threatened a 25 per cent tariff on India-produced iPhones in a bid to promote the return of manufacturing to the US.&nbsp;<h2>India needs to overcome supply chain issues</h2>&nbsp;Besides, there are still concerns about the supply chain, as Apple’s official list of suppliers for 2023 released recently shows 157 vendors and suppliers in mainland China and just 14 in India. The number of Indian suppliers, though has since increased to 64.&nbsp;The Indian government has been taking initiatives to promote domestic production of smartphones. Union minister Jitin Prasada shared that mobile manufacturing set ups in India have risen to 300 in 2024-25 from just two in 2014-15. Moreover, mobile phone output has risen 28 times to Rs 5.45 lakh crore, with exports going up 127 times to 2 lakh crore.

The sharp three-fold surge in India's smartphone exports to the US is largely driven by Apple, which has been relocating its manufacturing operations to India. In contrast, China's share of US smartphone imports has fallen drastically.

India is fast emerging as a major hub for smartphone manufacturing and has significantly increased its share in imports of smartphones by the US, thereby challenging China’s long-standing dominance in the field. In the first five months of 2025, nearly one in three smartphones imported into the US was manufactured in India—a sharp rise from just 11% in 2024 to over 30%. According to data from the US International Trade Commission (USITC), US smartphone imports from India have tripled to 21.3 million units in just the first five months of 2025. In terms of value, the imports surged by 182% to $9.35 billion—surpassing the roughly $7 billion recorded for all of 2024. This surge in smartphone exports is largely driven by Apple, which has been relocating its manufacturing operations to India. In May, Apple CEO Tim Cook suggested that a significant portion of iPhones sold in the US during the April–June quarter would be sourced from India. Currently, India accounts for around 20% of Apple’s global iPhone production—a strategic move encouraged by India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. The PLI scheme was designed to boost domestic smartphone manufacturing by incentivising global brands to set up their assembly facilities in India. China’s share sees big fall In contrast, China, which still remains the largest exporter of phones, saw its share of US smartphone imports drastically fall from 82 per cent to 49 per cent in the five-month period. China exported 29.4 million smartphones to the US during January and May, marking a 27 per cent year-on-year decline but still worth around $10 billion. India ranked second with 21.3 million units ahead of third-placed Vietnam with total exports to the US at 8.3 million units, contributing 14 per cent of the total imports. However, the change in smartphone production trend now faces some challenge as President Donald Trump had threatened a 25 per cent tariff on India-produced iPhones in a bid to promote the return of manufacturing to the US. India needs to overcome supply chain issues Besides, there are still concerns about the supply chain, as Apple’s official list of suppliers for 2023 released recently shows 157 vendors and suppliers in mainland China and just 14 in India. The number of Indian suppliers, though has since increased to 64. The Indian government has been taking initiatives to promote domestic production of smartphones. Union minister Jitin Prasada shared that mobile manufacturing set ups in India have risen to 300 in 2024-25 from just two in 2014-15. Moreover, mobile phone output has risen 28 times to Rs 5.45 lakh crore, with exports going up 127 times to 2 lakh crore.

The sharp three-fold surge in India's smartphone exports to the US is largely driven by Apple, which has been relocating its manufacturing operations to India. In contrast, China's share of US smartphone imports has fallen drastically.

US smartphone imports witness big leap of ‘Made in India’ units, as China’s share falls

The US Embassy in India on Saturday issued a warning saying it can revoke visas of foreign visitors found&nbsp;violating laws and committing crimes in the United States. It said crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. It said such crimes can make one "ineligible" to return to the world's richest country.&nbsp;"The United States is a society of law and order. Crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. If you break the law in the United States, your U.S. visa can be revoked, and you may be ineligible to return to the United States - FOR LIFE," it wrote on X, without revealing the context of the post.&nbsp;The advisory came days after it said in a post that a visa is a privilege, not a right.&nbsp;"If you are arrested for assault, domestic violence, or other crimes while in the United States, your U.S. visa may be revoked, and you may be ineligible for future U.S. visas. A visa is a privilege, not a right - one that can be revoked if you break the law," it added.&nbsp;On July 16, the Embassy issued a statement wherein it mentioned that committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States could lead to a visa being revoked and make one ineligible for future US visas.&nbsp;"The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws", the post read.&nbsp;On July 17, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Indian travellers to adhere to the local laws.&nbsp;"Our constant request to all our people who go abroad is that they should follow the law and order of that country, and create a good image of the country," he added.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump's administration has taken a tough stance against illegal immigration. Since assuming office, the administration has deported thousands of illegal immigrants.

The US Embassy in India on Saturday issued a warning saying it can revoke visas of foreign visitors found violating laws and committing crimes in the United States. It said crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. 

The US Embassy in India on Saturday issued a warning saying it can revoke visas of foreign visitors found violating laws and committing crimes in the United States. It said crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. It said such crimes can make one "ineligible" to return to the world's richest country. "The United States is a society of law and order. Crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. If you break the law in the United States, your U.S. visa can be revoked, and you may be ineligible to return to the United States - FOR LIFE," it wrote on X, without revealing the context of the post. The advisory came days after it said in a post that a visa is a privilege, not a right. "If you are arrested for assault, domestic violence, or other crimes while in the United States, your U.S. visa may be revoked, and you may be ineligible for future U.S. visas. A visa is a privilege, not a right - one that can be revoked if you break the law," it added. On July 16, the Embassy issued a statement wherein it mentioned that committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States could lead to a visa being revoked and make one ineligible for future US visas. "The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws", the post read. On July 17, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Indian travellers to adhere to the local laws. "Our constant request to all our people who go abroad is that they should follow the law and order of that country, and create a good image of the country," he added. US President Donald Trump's administration has taken a tough stance against illegal immigration. Since assuming office, the administration has deported thousands of illegal immigrants.

US Embassy's visa warning: US President Donald Trump's administration has taken a tough stance against illegal immigration.&nbsp;

US Embassy's big visa warning against 'assault' to foreign travelers: 'May be ineligible to return...'

The Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year in India on July 26 to honor the bravery of Indian soldiers who recaptured the mountain peaks in Kargil that were taken over by Pakistani forces in 1999. The Pakistani soldiers had crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and disguised as militants, leading to a serious conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations (India and Pakistan). In retaliation, India launched a full-scale military operation to drive them out. The war took place at very high altitudes and both sides suffered heavy losses. In the end, India successfully regained all the captured territory. The war involved different types of warfare, including mountain battles, traditional ground fighting and air strikes.<h2>Some of the important weapons and equipment used during the Kargil War are:</h2><ul><li>Small Arms (rifles): Small arms are the basic weapons like rifles and machine guns which were used by soldiers in close fights. Examples include, SAF Carbine and AK-47.</li><li>Artillery: Big guns such as Bofors FH-77B Howitzer and mortars were used to hit enemy targets from a distance.&nbsp;</li><li>Tanks: These are the armoured vehicles, which provide heavy fire support during attacks. Example - T-72 Tanks</li><li>Helicopters: These helicopters are used for the movement of troops, helped in spying and to provide support to troops on ground from the air.</li><li>Fighter Jets: Both India and Pakistan used fighter jets in the sky, including MiG-21, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 (India) and F-16 (Pakistan).</li><li>UAVs (Drones): These drones are mainly used for watching enemy movements and gathering intelligence.</li><li>Anti-Aircraft Guns: These guns are mainly used to shoot down enemy planes.</li></ul><h2>Key weapons used by India during Kargil War</h2><ul><li>&nbsp;Bofors FH-77B Howitzer A 155 mm gun made in Sweden, popularly known in India as the Bofors gun. It was used for long-range shelling of enemy posts in the mountains.</li><li>&nbsp;MiG-27 (Bahadur) and MiG-29 A Soviet-designed fighter jets, used mainly for ground attacks. These jets are also used for air combat and guarding Indian skies.</li><li>Mirage 2000H A French-built fighter jet used by the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War. These jets played a key role in bombing enemy bunkers in the Kargil sector with precision.</li><li>Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs) Laser-Guided Bombs are the special bombs guided by laser to accurately hit targets. These helped to destroy enemy positions with great precision during the war.</li><li>Grenade Launchers These launchers were used by Indian soldiers to launch grenades at the enemy bunkers from a distance.</li><li>&nbsp;INSAS, SAF Carbine and AK-47</li></ul>INSAS: A set of rifles and light machine guns made in India for infantry use.&nbsp;SAF Carbine: A small and lightweight gun known for its accurate accuracy.&nbsp;AK-47: A powerful automatic rifle originally made in the Soviet Union was also used during the war.<h2>26 years of courage and sacrifice</h2>This year marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is celebrated to remember the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of Indian soldiers who fought to protect the country’s borders.&nbsp;

This year (2025) marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is observed to honour the courage, sacrifice and commitment of Indian soldiers who defended the nation during the Kargil conflict.

The Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year in India on July 26 to honor the bravery of Indian soldiers who recaptured the mountain peaks in Kargil that were taken over by Pakistani forces in 1999. The Pakistani soldiers had crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and disguised as militants, leading to a serious conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations (India and Pakistan). In retaliation, India launched a full-scale military operation to drive them out. The war took place at very high altitudes and both sides suffered heavy losses. In the end, India successfully regained all the captured territory. The war involved different types of warfare, including mountain battles, traditional ground fighting and air strikes. Some of the important weapons and equipment used during the Kargil War are: Small Arms (rifles): Small arms are the basic weapons like rifles and machine guns which were used by soldiers in close fights. Examples include, SAF Carbine and AK-47. Artillery: Big guns such as Bofors FH-77B Howitzer and mortars were used to hit enemy targets from a distance. Tanks: These are the armoured vehicles, which provide heavy fire support during attacks. Example - T-72 Tanks Helicopters: These helicopters are used for the movement of troops, helped in spying and to provide support to troops on ground from the air. Fighter Jets: Both India and Pakistan used fighter jets in the sky, including MiG-21, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 (India) and F-16 (Pakistan). UAVs (Drones): These drones are mainly used for watching enemy movements and gathering intelligence. Anti-Aircraft Guns: These guns are mainly used to shoot down enemy planes. Key weapons used by India during Kargil War Bofors FH-77B Howitzer A 155 mm gun made in Sweden, popularly known in India as the Bofors gun. It was used for long-range shelling of enemy posts in the mountains. MiG-27 (Bahadur) and MiG-29 A Soviet-designed fighter jets, used mainly for ground attacks. These jets are also used for air combat and guarding Indian skies. Mirage 2000H A French-built fighter jet used by the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War. These jets played a key role in bombing enemy bunkers in the Kargil sector with precision. Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs) Laser-Guided Bombs are the special bombs guided by laser to accurately hit targets. These helped to destroy enemy positions with great precision during the war. Grenade Launchers These launchers were used by Indian soldiers to launch grenades at the enemy bunkers from a distance. INSAS, SAF Carbine and AK-47 INSAS: A set of rifles and light machine guns made in India for infantry use. SAF Carbine: A small and lightweight gun known for its accurate accuracy. AK-47: A powerful automatic rifle originally made in the Soviet Union was also used during the war. 26 years of courage and sacrifice This year marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is celebrated to remember the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of Indian soldiers who fought to protect the country’s borders.

This year (2025) marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is observed to honour the courage, sacrifice and commitment of Indian soldiers who defended the nation during the Kargil conflict.

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025: List of Indian Army weapons used in 1999 conflict

In a shocking incident in Bihar, a 26-year-old woman was allegedly gang raped in a moving ambulance while she was being taken to a hospital after fainting during a physical endurance test as part of a Home Guard recruitment process on Thursday (Jul 24). The incident took place in Bodh Gaya, following which the woman filed a complaint. The driver and technician of the ambulance have been arrested.&nbsp;The woman told police that she was raped by multiple people inside the ambulance while she was unconscious. A first information report (FIR) was registered based on her statement under section 70(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) with the Bodh Gaya police station.&nbsp;The ambulance was parked at the recruitment location for emergencies. According to the woman’s family, the recruitment process was only for women candidates, but no female staff were present in the ambulance.&nbsp;Following the complaint, she was sent to Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital for a medical examination, said police. A special investigation team was formed after an order by Senior Superintendent of police (SSP) Anand Kumar.&nbsp;The SIT and forensic team identified the accused with the help of CCTV footage and the victim’s identification. Vinay Kumar of Utren village, who was driving the ambulance, and Ajit Kumar of Chandanpur village in Nalanda district were arrested within a few hours of the complaint, SSP Kumar said.&nbsp;“Police will complete the investigation soon and submit a charge sheet to the court with a recommendation for a speedy trial to ensure punishment for the accused,” he added.&nbsp;City SP Ramanand Kumar Kaushal confirmed that both accused were arrested and questioned. “Their answers were not satisfactory. The doctors have confirmed rape and further action is being taken on both the accused,” he added.

The woman told police that she was raped by multiple people inside the ambulance while she was unconscious. A complaint wa registered based on her statement.

In a shocking incident in Bihar, a 26-year-old woman was allegedly gang raped in a moving ambulance while she was being taken to a hospital after fainting during a physical endurance test as part of a Home Guard recruitment process on Thursday (Jul 24). The incident took place in Bodh Gaya, following which the woman filed a complaint. The driver and technician of the ambulance have been arrested. The woman told police that she was raped by multiple people inside the ambulance while she was unconscious. A first information report (FIR) was registered based on her statement under section 70(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) with the Bodh Gaya police station. The ambulance was parked at the recruitment location for emergencies. According to the woman’s family, the recruitment process was only for women candidates, but no female staff were present in the ambulance. Following the complaint, she was sent to Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital for a medical examination, said police. A special investigation team was formed after an order by Senior Superintendent of police (SSP) Anand Kumar. The SIT and forensic team identified the accused with the help of CCTV footage and the victim’s identification. Vinay Kumar of Utren village, who was driving the ambulance, and Ajit Kumar of Chandanpur village in Nalanda district were arrested within a few hours of the complaint, SSP Kumar said. “Police will complete the investigation soon and submit a charge sheet to the court with a recommendation for a speedy trial to ensure punishment for the accused,” he added. City SP Ramanand Kumar Kaushal confirmed that both accused were arrested and questioned. “Their answers were not satisfactory. The doctors have confirmed rape and further action is being taken on both the accused,” he added.

The woman told police that she was raped by multiple people inside the ambulance while she was unconscious. A complaint was registered based on her statement.

Bihar: Woman raped in ambulance after fainting during Home Guard recruitment test

The political feud in top Congress leadership in Karnataka triggered a clash between two senior Karnataka government officials of rival camps at the Karnataka Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday, with CM Siddaramaiah’s special duty officer even being accused of attacking an official of DK Shivakumar faction with a shoe. Chaos erupted at the Karnataka Bhawan on Saturday, as aides of CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar clashed with each other amid underlying tensions between their patrons in Bengaluru.&nbsp;After the clash, H Anjaneya even lodged a formal complaint with Karnataka Bhavan’s Resident Commissioner Imkongla Jamir and Karnataka’s Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh against C Mohan Kumar for allegedly assaulting him with a shoe at Karnataka Bhavan and sought criminal action against him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Secretary Rajneesh has ordered an official inquiry and requested a report from the Resident Commissioner.&nbsp;It all started with a verbal spat at Karnataka Bhavan and came to blows and later H Anjaneya, special officer to Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar, accused C Mohan Kumar, assistant resident commissioner and special officer to CM Siddaramaiah, of assaulting him with a shoe.&nbsp;<h2>‘Beaten with a shoe, it hurt my honour and dignity’</h2>&nbsp;“I was beaten with a shoe, and it has hurt my honour and dignity. Conduct a criminal trial against him (Kumar) and give me justice,” Anjanaya said in his complaint.“We have received the complaint dated July 22. Due process will be followed,” Jamir said, confirming the development.In the complaint, Anjanaya, a Group-B officer, also alleged that Kumar has been disrupting his duties.“He threatened to hit me with a shoe in the chamber of the office in front of everyone,” Anjanaya wrote, while adding that he was concerned about his own safety.“If any accident happens, Kumar will be responsible,” Anjanaya said.&nbsp;The complaint also referenced Kumar’s alleged past conduct, claiming, “If you look into the service books in the past, he has beaten MM Joshi and not given respect to senior officers and behaved with ego as special officer on duty for CM.”Anjanaya also said that he had previously sought a transfer from the Karnataka Bhavan specifically to avoid such conflicts.&nbsp;The matter is expected to undergo official investigation as the resident commissioner's office has confirmed that it will follow due process in addressing the complaint.&nbsp;The Karnataka BJP seized the opportunity and called the incident evidence of rift within the Congress government in the state.

A bitter clash erupted between the Special Duty Officers (SDOs) of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar at the Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi amid an alleged power tussle in Karnataka and rumours of a potential leadership change.

The political feud in top Congress leadership in Karnataka triggered a clash between two senior Karnataka government officials of rival camps at the Karnataka Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday, with CM Siddaramaiah’s special duty officer even being accused of attacking an official of DK Shivakumar faction with a shoe. Chaos erupted at the Karnataka Bhawan on Saturday, as aides of CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar clashed with each other amid underlying tensions between their patrons in Bengaluru. After the clash, H Anjaneya even lodged a formal complaint with Karnataka Bhavan’s Resident Commissioner Imkongla Jamir and Karnataka’s Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh against C Mohan Kumar for allegedly assaulting him with a shoe at Karnataka Bhavan and sought criminal action against him. Chief Secretary Rajneesh has ordered an official inquiry and requested a report from the Resident Commissioner. It all started with a verbal spat at Karnataka Bhavan and came to blows and later H Anjaneya, special officer to Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar, accused C Mohan Kumar, assistant resident commissioner and special officer to CM Siddaramaiah, of assaulting him with a shoe. ‘Beaten with a shoe, it hurt my honour and dignity’ “I was beaten with a shoe, and it has hurt my honour and dignity. Conduct a criminal trial against him (Kumar) and give me justice,” Anjanaya said in his complaint. “We have received the complaint dated July 22. Due process will be followed,” Jamir said, confirming the development. In the complaint, Anjanaya, a Group-B officer, also alleged that Kumar has been disrupting his duties. “He threatened to hit me with a shoe in the chamber of the office in front of everyone,” Anjanaya wrote, while adding that he was concerned about his own safety. “If any accident happens, Kumar will be responsible,” Anjanaya said. The complaint also referenced Kumar’s alleged past conduct, claiming, “If you look into the service books in the past, he has beaten MM Joshi and not given respect to senior officers and behaved with ego as special officer on duty for CM.” Anjanaya also said that he had previously sought a transfer from the Karnataka Bhavan specifically to avoid such conflicts. The matter is expected to undergo official investigation as the resident commissioner's office has confirmed that it will follow due process in addressing the complaint. The Karnataka BJP seized the opportunity and called the incident evidence of rift within the Congress government in the state.

A bitter clash erupted between the Special Duty Officers (SDOs) of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar at the Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi amid an alleged power tussle in Karnataka and rumours of a potential leadership change.

Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah feud sparks clash of aides at Karnataka Bhavan in Delhi: ‘Beaten with a shoe’

Amid a spate of sensational crimes in poll-bound Bihar, Union Minister&nbsp;and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan slammed the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, saying he is sad that he supports a dispensation that is unable to arrest the rising crime rate in the state. He said he believes that the reports of violent crimes in the state are part of a conspiracy to defame the state government in an election year. However, he said the onus to maintain the law-and-order situation rests with the Bihar government.&nbsp;"I also believe that these incidents are being carried out as a conspiracy to defame the government ahead of elections. But even then, the responsibility of controlling it lies with the administration. Either the administration is in collusion with it, or the administration has become completely useless, and now it is beyond their power to keep Bihar and Biharis safe," he said in Patna.&nbsp;His remarks came after a woman was raped inside a moving ambulance in Bihar. Chirag Paswan, an NDA ally but a strong Nitish Kumar critic, said he is ashamed because he supports "such a government".&nbsp;&nbsp;"I feel ashamed that I am supporting such a government, under which crime has gotten out of control," he added.&nbsp;He said that the Bihar government has bowed down in front of criminals.&nbsp;He said that if such incidents are curtailed, then it will create a frightening situation in the state.&nbsp;"The way there have been criminal incidents one by one, and the way the government has bowed its head down in front of criminals. The incident is indeed as condemnable as embarrassing, and an arrest also happened. But why are such incidents like murder, loot, dacoit, rape, one after another, happening in Bihar? It looks like the government is totally unsuccessful in curtailing these incidents. If this keeps going on, then it will create a very frightening situation in our state," Paswan said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad slammed Chirag Paswan.&nbsp;"Chirag Paswan is doing two kinds of politics, one, he is enjoying the power, and second, somewhere he wants to face his face as well. This is being done at the behest of the BJP. The 2020 election had also started like this. If, under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, crime is not getting controlled, then why is he still in the NDA? People of Bihar have already understood his politics. Chirag Paswan is being used to divert the issue of rising crime in Bihar," he told PTI.

Amid a spate of sensational crimes in poll-bound Bihar, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan slammed the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.

Amid a spate of sensational crimes in poll-bound Bihar, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan slammed the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, saying he is sad that he supports a dispensation that is unable to arrest the rising crime rate in the state. He said he believes that the reports of violent crimes in the state are part of a conspiracy to defame the state government in an election year. However, he said the onus to maintain the law-and-order situation rests with the Bihar government. "I also believe that these incidents are being carried out as a conspiracy to defame the government ahead of elections. But even then, the responsibility of controlling it lies with the administration. Either the administration is in collusion with it, or the administration has become completely useless, and now it is beyond their power to keep Bihar and Biharis safe," he said in Patna. His remarks came after a woman was raped inside a moving ambulance in Bihar. Chirag Paswan, an NDA ally but a strong Nitish Kumar critic, said he is ashamed because he supports "such a government". "I feel ashamed that I am supporting such a government, under which crime has gotten out of control," he added. He said that the Bihar government has bowed down in front of criminals. He said that if such incidents are curtailed, then it will create a frightening situation in the state. "The way there have been criminal incidents one by one, and the way the government has bowed its head down in front of criminals. The incident is indeed as condemnable as embarrassing, and an arrest also happened. But why are such incidents like murder, loot, dacoit, rape, one after another, happening in Bihar? It looks like the government is totally unsuccessful in curtailing these incidents. If this keeps going on, then it will create a very frightening situation in our state," Paswan said. Meanwhile, RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad slammed Chirag Paswan. "Chirag Paswan is doing two kinds of politics, one, he is enjoying the power, and second, somewhere he wants to face his face as well. This is being done at the behest of the BJP. The 2020 election had also started like this. If, under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, crime is not getting controlled, then why is he still in the NDA? People of Bihar have already understood his politics. Chirag Paswan is being used to divert the issue of rising crime in Bihar," he told PTI.

RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad slammed Chirag Paswan, saying he should stop supporting the NDA.

Chirag Paswan slams Nitish Kumar's Bihar government: 'Ashamed to support...'

Minutes before a primary school building collapsed in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar, students had reportedly warned teachers about visible cracks in the building. However, the teachers did not take the children seriously, scolding and sending them back to class. Reportedly, the teachers were having breakfast when the students alerted them. Moments later, the roof gave way, killing seven and injuring more than a dozen others.&nbsp;“I was outside, cleaning, and students were sitting inside the classroom. Suddenly, stones from the roof started falling, so the students alarmed the teacher. She said that nothing was falling and asked everyone to keep sitting. The teacher then came outside. All the senior girls were outside. Suddenly, the roof collapsed, and the students were stuck. We heard screams and everyone ran out. The villagers came to rescue the stuck students,” an eyewitness told ANI.&nbsp;India Today reported that the teachers were having breakfast at the time students came to warn them about falling pebbles, but the teachers scolded them and sent back to classroom. “If the children were taken out, the accident would not have happened,” a student told the outlet.&nbsp;“The children were made to sit inside the class for prayer. The teachers were having breakfast. When pebbles started falling inside, the children told the teachers. The teachers scolded the children and asked them to sit back in class. After that, the wall gave way and the roof fell on the children. Many children ran here and there to escape, with many getting buried under the rubble. After that the children were taken out with the help of the villagers,” an eighth-standard student said.&nbsp;<h2>Five teachers suspended</h2>&nbsp;Following the incident, five teachers were suspended for criminal negligence after the roof of the Government High Primary School in Pimplod, Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, collapsed on Friday (July 25). The incident occurred around 8 am when the students had gathered for morning prayer.&nbsp;“We had issued orders in June that children should not be made to sit in any dilapidated school building, and that we should be informed. We also repaired several such buildings. There was clear negligence on the part of the teachers. Five people from the education department have been suspended. An inquiry committee has been formed, and further action will be taken once the report is submitted,” said Jhalawar District Collector Ajay Singh Rathore.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Reportedly, the teachers were having breakfast when the students alerted them. Moments later, the roof gave way, killing seven and injuring more than a dozen others.

Minutes before a primary school building collapsed in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar, students had reportedly warned teachers about visible cracks in the building. However, the teachers did not take the children seriously, scolding and sending them back to class. Reportedly, the teachers were having breakfast when the students alerted them. Moments later, the roof gave way, killing seven and injuring more than a dozen others. “I was outside, cleaning, and students were sitting inside the classroom. Suddenly, stones from the roof started falling, so the students alarmed the teacher. She said that nothing was falling and asked everyone to keep sitting. The teacher then came outside. All the senior girls were outside. Suddenly, the roof collapsed, and the students were stuck. We heard screams and everyone ran out. The villagers came to rescue the stuck students,” an eyewitness told ANI. India Today reported that the teachers were having breakfast at the time students came to warn them about falling pebbles, but the teachers scolded them and sent back to classroom. “If the children were taken out, the accident would not have happened,” a student told the outlet. “The children were made to sit inside the class for prayer. The teachers were having breakfast. When pebbles started falling inside, the children told the teachers. The teachers scolded the children and asked them to sit back in class. After that, the wall gave way and the roof fell on the children. Many children ran here and there to escape, with many getting buried under the rubble. After that the children were taken out with the help of the villagers,” an eighth-standard student said. Five teachers suspended Following the incident, five teachers were suspended for criminal negligence after the roof of the Government High Primary School in Pimplod, Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, collapsed on Friday (July 25). The incident occurred around 8 am when the students had gathered for morning prayer. “We had issued orders in June that children should not be made to sit in any dilapidated school building, and that we should be informed. We also repaired several such buildings. There was clear negligence on the part of the teachers. Five people from the education department have been suspended. An inquiry committee has been formed, and further action will be taken once the report is submitted,” said Jhalawar District Collector Ajay Singh Rathore.

Reportedly, the teachers were having breakfast when the students alerted them. Moments later, the roof gave way, killing seven and injuring more than a dozen others.

Lives could have been saved? Students warned teachers minutes before Rajasthan school collapse

In a major breakthrough against narco-terrorism, the Counter-Intelligence wing of Amritsar has successfully dismantled a cross-border heroin smuggling module, apprehending four key operatives with direct links to a Pakistan-based smuggler, the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab said on Saturday. The intelligence-led operation, conducted near the Indo-Pak border in Attari, led to the recovery of 4 kilograms of heroin. According to a post from Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, “The accused had retrieved a heroin consignment near the #Indo-#Pak border in #Attari and were enroute to deliver it when they were intercepted.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a major intelligence-led operation, Counter Intelligence - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> busts a cross-border heroin smuggling module and apprehends four key operatives with direct links to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>-based smuggler. The accused had retrieved a heroin consignment near the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indo</a>-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pak</a> border in… <a href="https://t.co/4VpQsBNICp">pic.twitter.com/4VpQsBNICp</a>&mdash; DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1949018590360780891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"A case is being registered, and further investigation is underway to trace the full network, including forward and backwards linkages. PunjabPolice remains committed to dismantling cross-border drug syndicates and protecting Punjab from the grip of narco-terrorism," the DGP said. Earlier on Friday, in a major strike against cross-border narco-smuggling, the Amritsar Police Commissionerate busted a well-organised heroin trafficking cartel with direct links to Pakistan-based smugglers, as per officials. In a post on social media X, the DGP, Punjab Police, wrote that the key accused, identified as Sarbjit aka Joban, was in direct contact with a notorious smuggler identified as Rana across the border, and had been arrested along with a juvenile, with one kilogram of heroin recovered from them. The DGP further mentioned that the two more smugglers, identified as Dharam Singh and Kulbr Singh, had been arrested along with five kilograms of heroin. "In a major strike against cross-border narco-smuggling, Commissionerate Police Amritsar busts a well-organised heroin trafficking cartel with direct links to #Pakistan-based smugglers. Key accused Sarbjit @ Joban, operating from a border-area village, is in direct contact with notorious smuggler Rana across the border. He is arrested along with a juvenile, with 1 kg of heroin recovered from them. His interrogation led to the arrest of two more smugglers -- Dharam Singh and Kulbir Singh -- from Ajnala, with over 5 kg of heroin seized. Total Recovery: 6.106 Kg Heroin, 2 Motorcycles," the post read. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. "FIRs registered at PS Airport and PS Chheharta under relevant sections of the NDPS Act.@PunjabPoliceInd remains firm in its resolve to dismantle narco networks and safeguard the future of Punjab's youth," the post further stated.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.

The intelligence-led operation, conducted near the Indo-Pak border in Attari, led to the recovery of 4 kilograms of heroin.

In a major breakthrough against narco-terrorism, the Counter-Intelligence wing of Amritsar has successfully dismantled a cross-border heroin smuggling module, apprehending four key operatives with direct links to a Pakistan-based smuggler, the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab said on Saturday. The intelligence-led operation, conducted near the Indo-Pak border in Attari, led to the recovery of 4 kilograms of heroin. According to a post from Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, “The accused had retrieved a heroin consignment near the #Indo-#Pak border in #Attari and were enroute to deliver it when they were intercepted.”

The intelligence-led operation, conducted near the Indo-Pak border in Attari, led to the recovery of 4 kilograms of heroin.

Punjab police bust cross-border heroin smuggling module, four held with Pakistan links

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emerged as the world’s most trusted and highest-rated global leader. He topped the latest global list of ‘Democratic Leader Approval Ratings’ with a 75% approval score. The latest data released by US-based business intelligence firm Morning Consult put Modi ahead of leaders such as Lee Jae-myung (59 per cent) of South Korea, &nbsp;Argentina’s Javier Milei (57 per cent), and Canada’s Mark Carney (56 per cent), who were second, third and fourth on the list, respectively.&nbsp;A rolling seven-day average of adult opinions across the countries was done by Morning Consult between 4 and 10 July 2025 for the latest Global Leader Approval Rating.&nbsp;According to the survey, 75 per cent of participants approved of PM Modi as a democratic world leader, seven per cent were not sure while 18 per cent disapproved.&nbsp;Notably, US President Donald Trump has been ranked eighth in the list with a 44 per cent approval rating.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position as the world’s most trusted leader was celebrated by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. BJP leader Amit Malviya praising Modi for his achievement on X wrote, “Loved by over a billion Indians and respected by millions across the globe, PM Narendra Modi tops the Morning Consult Global Leader Approval Tracker once again — the highest-rated and most trusted leader worldwide. Strong leadership. Global respect. Bharat is in safe hands".&nbsp;This is not the first time that the Indian Prime Minister has featured in Morning Consult’s Global Leader Approval Rating. In fact, Modi has held the top position since at least September 2021, when h got an approval rating of 70 per cent. By early 2022, his rating shot up to around 71 per cent, topping a survey of 13 world leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A rolling seven-day average of adult opinions across the countries was done by Morning Consult between 4 and 10 July 2025 for the latest Global Leader Approval Rating.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emerged as the world’s most trusted and highest-rated global leader. He topped the latest global list of ‘Democratic Leader Approval Ratings’ with a 75% approval score. The latest data released by US-based business intelligence firm Morning Consult put Modi ahead of leaders such as Lee Jae-myung (59 per cent) of South Korea, Argentina’s Javier Milei (57 per cent), and Canada’s Mark Carney (56 per cent), who were second, third and fourth on the list, respectively. A rolling seven-day average of adult opinions across the countries was done by Morning Consult between 4 and 10 July 2025 for the latest Global Leader Approval Rating. According to the survey, 75 per cent of participants approved of PM Modi as a democratic world leader, seven per cent were not sure while 18 per cent disapproved. Notably, US President Donald Trump has been ranked eighth in the list with a 44 per cent approval rating. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position as the world’s most trusted leader was celebrated by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. BJP leader Amit Malviya praising Modi for his achievement on X wrote, “Loved by over a billion Indians and respected by millions across the globe, PM Narendra Modi tops the Morning Consult Global Leader Approval Tracker once again — the highest-rated and most trusted leader worldwide. Strong leadership. Global respect. Bharat is in safe hands". This is not the first time that the Indian Prime Minister has featured in Morning Consult’s Global Leader Approval Rating. In fact, Modi has held the top position since at least September 2021, when h got an approval rating of 70 per cent. By early 2022, his rating shot up to around 71 per cent, topping a survey of 13 world leaders.

A rolling seven-day average of adult opinions across the countries was done by Morning Consult between 4 and 10 July 2025 for the latest Global Leader Approval Rating.

Narendra Modi tops ‘Democratic Leader Approval Ratings’ again, leaves Donald Trump far behind in survey

On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday (Jul 26), issued a stark warning to Pakistan, saying that those who support terrorism will not be spared. He said that continuing the legacy of Operation Vijay, the Indian Armed Forces once again foiled the actions of the Pakistani military by launching Operation Sindoor, which he described as India’s “resolve, message and answer”.&nbsp;Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, the Army Chief said, “The cowardly attack by the terrorists in Pahalgam was a deep blow to the entire country. However, this time India did not express any doubt, but the decision of the government was that the answer would be decisive. With the unwavering trust of the countrymen and the strategic freedom granted by the Government, the Indian Service gave a determined, precise and decisive response.”&nbsp;Gen Dwivedi was referring to Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine high-value terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. Indian strikes came in response to the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.&nbsp;“We hit the targets without causing any harm to any innocent civilians. It was a clear message that those who support terrorism will no longer be spared,” he said.&nbsp;The Army Chief noted how India employed a “Whole-of-Nation Approach” where the Army, Air Force, Navy and other government departments stood together during the military operations between May 7 and May 9. “Our Army Air Defence stood like an invincible wall,” he hailed. “Our forces responded with measured, precise retaliation. This posture of strength will continue.”&nbsp;Gen Dwivedi also announced major structural upgrades, including the formation of all-arms brigades named ‘Rudra’. ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, Drone Platoons, Loiter Munition Batteries, Indigenous Missile Systems.&nbsp;“In the same sequence, agile and lethal special forces units have been formed in the form of ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, which are ready to surprise the enemy on the borders. Drone Platoons have been set up in every infantry battalion, and the artillery has been provided with ‘Divyastra batteries’ and Loiter Munition Batteries to enhance the firepower manifold. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems,” General Dwivedi said.&nbsp;Extending heartfelt gratitude to parents, Veer Naris, and the families of the fallen heroes of the Kargil War, Gen Dwivedi said, “You gave the country your bravehearts; your courage, patience and sacrifice are an inspiration for all of us. Today, the whole country pays tribute to your incomparable sacrifice and unwavering patriotism.”

Army Chief hailed Operation Sindoor while speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on  26th Kargil Vijay Diwas. He gave a stark warning to Pakistan, saying those who support terrorism will not be spared.

On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday (Jul 26), issued a stark warning to Pakistan, saying that those who support terrorism will not be spared. He said that continuing the legacy of Operation Vijay, the Indian Armed Forces once again foiled the actions of the Pakistani military by launching Operation Sindoor, which he described as India’s “resolve, message and answer”. Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, the Army Chief said, “The cowardly attack by the terrorists in Pahalgam was a deep blow to the entire country. However, this time India did not express any doubt, but the decision of the government was that the answer would be decisive. With the unwavering trust of the countrymen and the strategic freedom granted by the Government, the Indian Service gave a determined, precise and decisive response.” Gen Dwivedi was referring to Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine high-value terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. Indian strikes came in response to the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. “We hit the targets without causing any harm to any innocent civilians. It was a clear message that those who support terrorism will no longer be spared,” he said. The Army Chief noted how India employed a “Whole-of-Nation Approach” where the Army, Air Force, Navy and other government departments stood together during the military operations between May 7 and May 9. “Our Army Air Defence stood like an invincible wall,” he hailed. “Our forces responded with measured, precise retaliation. This posture of strength will continue.” Gen Dwivedi also announced major structural upgrades, including the formation of all-arms brigades named ‘Rudra’. ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, Drone Platoons, Loiter Munition Batteries, Indigenous Missile Systems. “In the same sequence, agile and lethal special forces units have been formed in the form of ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, which are ready to surprise the enemy on the borders. Drone Platoons have been set up in every infantry battalion, and the artillery has been provided with ‘Divyastra batteries’ and Loiter Munition Batteries to enhance the firepower manifold. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems,” General Dwivedi said. Extending heartfelt gratitude to parents, Veer Naris, and the families of the fallen heroes of the Kargil War, Gen Dwivedi said, “You gave the country your bravehearts; your courage, patience and sacrifice are an inspiration for all of us. Today, the whole country pays tribute to your incomparable sacrifice and unwavering patriotism.”

Army Chief hailed Operation Sindoor while speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on &nbsp;26th Kargil Vijay Diwas. He gave a stark warning to Pakistan, saying those who support terrorism will not be spared.

‘Those who support terrorism will not be spared’: Army Chief gives clear warning to Pakistan

India looks forward to deepening its partnership with the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, as he met prominent Maldivian leaders, including Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed.&nbsp;Modi is in the Maldives on a two-day visit.&nbsp;His discussions with Latheef touched upon key pillars of the India-Maldives ties.&nbsp;“Our nations continue to work closely in sectors like infrastructure, technology, climate change, energy and more. This is greatly beneficial to our people. We look forward to deepening this partnership in the years to come,” Modi posted on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a very good meeting with Vice President Uz. Hussain Mohamed Latheef. Our discussion touched upon key pillars of the India-Maldives friendship. Our nations continue to work closely in sectors like infrastructure, technology, climate change, energy and more. This is greatly… <a href="https://t.co/QR60E7wLJ2">pic.twitter.com/QR60E7wLJ2</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1948991132152873221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;He also met Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis (the Maldivian Parliament).&nbsp;“Talked about the deep-rooted India-Maldives friendship, including the close relationship between our respective Parliaments,” Modi said.&nbsp;He also welcomed the formation of the India-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group in the 20th Majlis.&nbsp;“India remains committed to supporting capacity building in the Maldives,” the prime minister said.&nbsp;He also met former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed.&nbsp;“He (Nasheed) has always been a strong advocate of a deeper India-Maldives friendship. Spoke about how the Maldives will always be a valued pillar of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Mahasagar vision,” he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Met the former President of Maldives, Mr. Mohamed Nasheed. He has always been a strong advocate of deeper India-Maldives friendship. Spoke about how the Maldives will always be a valued pillar of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Mahasagar vision. India will keep supporting… <a href="https://t.co/4N33p4qn9l">pic.twitter.com/4N33p4qn9l</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1948993022819205544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Nasheed served as president of the Maldives from November 11, 2008 to February 7, 2012.India will keep supporting the Maldives through capacity building and developmental cooperation, the prime minister said. On Friday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit to the island nation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

On Friday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit to the island nation.

India looks forward to deepening its partnership with the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, as he met prominent Maldivian leaders, including Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed. Modi is in the Maldives on a two-day visit. His discussions with Latheef touched upon key pillars of the India-Maldives ties. “Our nations continue to work closely in sectors like infrastructure, technology, climate change, energy and more. This is greatly beneficial to our people. We look forward to deepening this partnership in the years to come,” Modi posted on X.

On Friday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and announced a Rs 4,850 crore line of credit to the island nation.

‘India looks forward to deepening partnership’ with Maldives, says PM Modi

While protecting the borders at the Line of Control in the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Army is constantly working with the local population in these areas for the upliftment and empowerment of the youth. The Indian Army's Kilo Force, in collaboration with the local administration of Baramulla District, has inaugurated a Skill Development Training Centre for the empowerment of women in the area.The GOC Kilo Force of the Indian Army reiterated that the Indian Army’s commitment to peacebuilding through skill development and empowerment remains a priority for them. He also added that equipping youth with skills and education is central to building a progressive and self-reliant Kashmir.According to the Indian Army, the skill development centre for women was developed in 2009 and has already trained over 1200 youth with computer education, etc. And with its latest upgrade, the centre has been equipped with the latest technology, making it a modern skill development hub tailored to local employment needs and regional aspirations.The skill development centre will offer the youth of the area three-month certification courses in basic computer education and fashion designing, along with vocational training in homemade soap and lip balm making and dry apple processing.As part of efforts to ensure sustainability, two production-based training units—Soap and Lip Balm Manufacturing Unit and Dry Apple Processing Unit—have been established within the centre. These units will operate in coordination with local Self-Help Groups (SHGs), creating income-generating opportunities, particularly for women. The products are expected to cater to both local demand and the tourism market, which is increasingly leaning toward organic and handmade goods.The Indian army has been promoting and fostering local talent by creating multiple platforms for the men as well as women of the Valley.&nbsp;

The skill development centre will offer the youth of the area three-month certification courses in basic computer education and fashion designing, along with vocational training in homemade soap and lip balm making and dry apple processing.

While protecting the borders at the Line of Control in the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Army is constantly working with the local population in these areas for the upliftment and empowerment of the youth. The Indian Army's Kilo Force, in collaboration with the local administration of Baramulla District, has inaugurated a Skill Development Training Centre for the empowerment of women in the area. The GOC Kilo Force of the Indian Army reiterated that the Indian Army’s commitment to peacebuilding through skill development and empowerment remains a priority for them. He also added that equipping youth with skills and education is central to building a progressive and self-reliant Kashmir. According to the Indian Army, the skill development centre for women was developed in 2009 and has already trained over 1200 youth with computer education, etc. And with its latest upgrade, the centre has been equipped with the latest technology, making it a modern skill development hub tailored to local employment needs and regional aspirations. The skill development centre will offer the youth of the area three-month certification courses in basic computer education and fashion designing, along with vocational training in homemade soap and lip balm making and dry apple processing. As part of efforts to ensure sustainability, two production-based training units—Soap and Lip Balm Manufacturing Unit and Dry Apple Processing Unit—have been established within the centre. These units will operate in coordination with local Self-Help Groups (SHGs), creating income-generating opportunities, particularly for women. The products are expected to cater to both local demand and the tourism market, which is increasingly leaning toward organic and handmade goods. The Indian army has been promoting and fostering local talent by creating multiple platforms for the men as well as women of the Valley.

The skill development centre will offer the youth of the area three-month certification courses in basic computer education and fashion designing, along with vocational training in homemade soap and lip balm making and dry apple processing.

Indian Army opens women's skill development centre in Baramulla to empower women in bordering areas

After nearly three-month-long war named &nbsp;“Operation Vijay” against Pakistan on the icy heights of Kargil in Ladakh, the Indian Army declared victory on July 26, 1999. The day is marked as the Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu paid tributes to brave soldiers of the Kargil war on Saturday (July 26). Taking to the micro-blogging site X PM Modi wrote, "Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valor of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation's pride. Their passion to sacrifice everything for the motherland will continue to inspire every generation. Jai Hind!"&nbsp;“On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. This day symbolizes the extraordinary valor, courage, and steadfast determination of our jawans. Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire its citizens. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!", wrote President Murmu.&nbsp;The Indian Air Force also paid its tributes to the heroes of the war. Taking to its X handle the IAF wrote, "The Indian Air Force pays heartfelt tribute to the valiant Warriors of the Kargil War. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve continue to inspire a nation united in gratitude."&nbsp;Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 History&nbsp;In the winter of&nbsp;1998-1999, Pakistani forces secretly infiltrated the strategic locations of the Dras and Batalik regions in Ladakh to observe the movement along India's NH 1A and potentially gain control. This was despite Pakistan signing the Lahore Declaration in February 1999 to resolve the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;At first, the Indian Army&nbsp;mistook the infiltrators for terrorists, but they later realised that the threat was much bigger and launched a counterattack against the&nbsp;Pakistani forces. India mobilised about 200,000 soldiers, marking the beginning of the Kargil War.&nbsp;Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 Significance&nbsp;Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated to honour the courage of the Indian armed forces as well as the 527 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.&nbsp;The Indian forces regained control over the region despite the tough terrain and climate, forcing Pakistan to withdraw. This day is marked as a symbol of unity&nbsp;and a way to show gratitude to&nbsp;our armed&nbsp;forces for keeping Indian borders safe from threats.&nbsp;

At first, the Indian Army mistook the infiltrators in Kargil heights for terrorists, but they later realised that the threat was much bigger and launched a counterattack.

After nearly three-month-long war named “Operation Vijay” against Pakistan on the icy heights of Kargil in Ladakh, the Indian Army declared victory on July 26, 1999. The day is marked as the Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu paid tributes to brave soldiers of the Kargil war on Saturday (July 26). Taking to the micro-blogging site X PM Modi wrote, "Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valor of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation's pride. Their passion to sacrifice everything for the motherland will continue to inspire every generation. Jai Hind!" “On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. This day symbolizes the extraordinary valor, courage, and steadfast determination of our jawans. Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire its citizens. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!", wrote President Murmu. The Indian Air Force also paid its tributes to the heroes of the war. Taking to its X handle the IAF wrote, "The Indian Air Force pays heartfelt tribute to the valiant Warriors of the Kargil War. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve continue to inspire a nation united in gratitude." Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 History In the winter of 1998-1999, Pakistani forces secretly infiltrated the strategic locations of the Dras and Batalik regions in Ladakh to observe the movement along India's NH 1A and potentially gain control. This was despite Pakistan signing the Lahore Declaration in February 1999 to resolve the Kashmir issue. At first, the Indian Army mistook the infiltrators for terrorists, but they later realised that the threat was much bigger and launched a counterattack against the Pakistani forces. India mobilised about 200,000 soldiers, marking the beginning of the Kargil War. Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 Significance Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated to honour the courage of the Indian armed forces as well as the 527 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The Indian forces regained control over the region despite the tough terrain and climate, forcing Pakistan to withdraw. This day is marked as a symbol of unity and a way to show gratitude to our armed forces for keeping Indian borders safe from threats.

At first, the Indian Army&nbsp;mistook the infiltrators in Kargil heights for terrorists, but they later realised that the threat&nbsp;was much bigger and launched a counterattack.

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025: PM Modi, President Murmu pay tributes; know history, significance of 'Operation Vijay'

In India's Maharashtra, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange weather alerts across several districts as the state braces for further intense monsoon activity. The IMD warned that in the next 24 hours, there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the western Indian state. Very heavy showers are predicted for parts of Pune, Satara and Nashik on July 26. An alert has also been issued for Palaghar and the ghat areas of Pune district. Considering the weather warning, Palghar District Collector Dr Indu Rani Jakhar, according to reports, has declared a holiday for schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres.<h2>Red and orange alerts issued for these districts</h2>According to reports, an orange alert, i.e. the "be prepared" for extreme weather warning, has been issued for Mumbai, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts in the Konkan region, as well as the ghat areas of Nashik and Satara districts. Meanwhile, a red alert has been sounded for six districts: Raigad, Ratnagiri, Gondia, Chandrapur, Bhandara, and Gadchiroli.Areas under red alert may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at some place. Meanwhile, areas under orange alert may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places. On X, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMD) Mumbai warned, "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with isolated extremely heavy rainfall very likely to occur at few places in the districts of North Konkan, at isolated places in ghat areas of North Madhya Maharashtra." It also warned that thunderstorms accompanied by "lightning, gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kmph and heavy rainfall" would likely occur at isolated places in the districts of Marathwada.<h2>Mumbai locals ‘running at slow speed’</h2>As per reports, amid heavy downpour, the Mumbai local trains have been affected. However, despite that rail traffic remains operational on all lines. According to Central Railway (CR), local train services on the Central Line, part of the Mumbai suburban railway system, were delayed due to heavy rainfall in Mumbai. Due to the heavy rainfall in Mumbai and its surrounding districts, the Mumbai Police have also advised citizens to stay indoors unless necessary and avoid coastal areas. "Our officials and staff are on high alert and ready to assist Mumbaikars. In case of any emergency, please dial 100 / 112 / 103," said the police.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that in the next 24 hours, there's a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the western Indian state.

In India's Maharashtra, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange weather alerts across several districts as the state braces for further intense monsoon activity. The IMD warned that in the next 24 hours, there was a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the western Indian state. Very heavy showers are predicted for parts of Pune, Satara and Nashik on July 26. An alert has also been issued for Palaghar and the ghat areas of Pune district. Considering the weather warning, Palghar District Collector Dr Indu Rani Jakhar, according to reports, has declared a holiday for schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres. Red and orange alerts issued for these districts According to reports, an orange alert, i.e. the "be prepared" for extreme weather warning, has been issued for Mumbai, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts in the Konkan region, as well as the ghat areas of Nashik and Satara districts. Meanwhile, a red alert has been sounded for six districts: Raigad, Ratnagiri, Gondia, Chandrapur, Bhandara, and Gadchiroli. Areas under red alert may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at some place. Meanwhile, areas under orange alert may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places. On X, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMD) Mumbai warned, "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with isolated extremely heavy rainfall very likely to occur at few places in the districts of North Konkan, at isolated places in ghat areas of North Madhya Maharashtra." It also warned that thunderstorms accompanied by "lightning, gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kmph and heavy rainfall" would likely occur at isolated places in the districts of Marathwada. Mumbai locals ‘running at slow speed’ As per reports, amid heavy downpour, the Mumbai local trains have been affected. However, despite that rail traffic remains operational on all lines. According to Central Railway (CR), local train services on the Central Line, part of the Mumbai suburban railway system, were delayed due to heavy rainfall in Mumbai. Due to the heavy rainfall in Mumbai and its surrounding districts, the Mumbai Police have also advised citizens to stay indoors unless necessary and avoid coastal areas. "Our officials and staff are on high alert and ready to assist Mumbaikars. In case of any emergency, please dial 100 / 112 / 103," said the police.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that in the next 24 hours, there's a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the western Indian state.

Red alert in Maharashtra: IMD warns of ‘very heavy rain’ in these key districts

Calling Maldives a vital partner in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 25) reaffirmed India’s commitment Maldives, saying New Delhi is proud to be Male’s “most trusted friend” and has always stood by the country as a first responder in times of need.&nbsp;Standing alongside Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Male, PM Modi congratulated the people of Maldives on the 60th anniversary of their independence and thanked Muizzu for inviting him as the ‘Guest of Honour’ at the historic occasion. “This year, India and Maldives also mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. But our bonds go beyond time — as deep as the ocean and as old as history itself,” said Modi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Muizzu and I inaugurated a new building of the Ministry of Defence in Malé. This is yet another instance of strong India-Maldives cooperation.<a href="https://twitter.com/MMuizzu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MMuizzu</a> <a href="https://t.co/k540iszTyM">pic.twitter.com/k540iszTyM</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1948750985691537718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Highlighting cultural ties, Modi said the release of commemorative stamps featuring traditional boats of both countries. “This shows we are not just neighbours but co-passengers on a shared journey,” he said. Modi reaffirmed that Maldives occupies a central place in India’s regional vision. “India is the closest neighbour of Maldives. Whether it is a natural disaster, a pandemic, or economic recovery post-COVID — India has always acted with friendship first. We take immense pride in being Maldives’ most trusted partner,” he said.&nbsp;On the security front, Modi said that the two countries’ defence cooperation is a “symbol of mutual trust,” referring to the inauguration of the Maldives Defence Ministry building — a project supported by India. A large portrait of Modi featured prominently at the event, underscoring the significance of the collaboration. “This new building is a concrete representation of trust and our strong partnership,” he said.&nbsp;India also announced a fresh Line of Credit worth $565 million for infrastructure and economic development in the Maldives. “The vision we laid out last October for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Partnership is now taking shape. As a result, our relationship is scaling new heights,” Modi said. He pointed to several India-backed infrastructure projects — including 4,000 social housing units, the Greater Male Connectivity Project, the Addu Road Development Project, and the redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo International Airport — as examples of transformative cooperation. “These will make Maldives a vital transit and economic hub,” he added. A new ferry system to enhance inter-island mobility is also in the pipeline.&nbsp;In terms of trade, Modi said both nations are moving toward finalising a Bilateral Investment Treaty and exploring a Free Trade Agreement. “We aim to move from paperwork to prosperity. The Rupee-Rufiyaa settlement system and growing UPI adoption in Maldives will boost tourism and retail,” he said.Modi also announced enhanced cooperation under the Colombo Security Conclave to strengthen regional maritime security. On climate change, he said India would share its expertise in renewable energy with Maldives to tackle shared environmental challenges.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Modi received a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour at Republic Square in Male, kicking off his two-day state visit. In a special gesture, President Muizzu personally welcomed him at the airport, accompanied by his Foreign, Defence, Finance, and Homeland Security ministers.“Landed in Male. Deeply touched by the gesture of President Muizzu to come to the airport to welcome me,” PM Modi posted on X, expressing optimism that India-Maldives ties would scale new heights.This marks Modi’s third visit to Maldives and the first by any head of government since Muizzu assumed office. On Saturday (July 26), Modi will attend the Independence Day celebrations as the chief guest.

Highlights PM Modi India proud to be most trusted friend of Maldives

Calling Maldives a vital partner in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 25) reaffirmed India’s commitment Maldives, saying New Delhi is proud to be Male’s “most trusted friend” and has always stood by the country as a first responder in times of need. Standing alongside Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Male, PM Modi congratulated the people of Maldives on the 60th anniversary of their independence and thanked Muizzu for inviting him as the ‘Guest of Honour’ at the historic occasion. “This year, India and Maldives also mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. But our bonds go beyond time — as deep as the ocean and as old as history itself,” said Modi.

PM Modi congratulated the people of Maldives on the 60th anniversary of its independence and thanked Muizzu for inviting him as the 'Guest of Honour' on this historic occasion

Highlights | PM Modi: ‘India proud to be most trusted friend of Maldives’

Two siblings, aged 60 and 58, were arrested in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur district on charges of repeatedly raping a 15-year-old girl who visited the ashram where they were employed, police said. Police said that the two individuals, along with an accomplice, recently threatened to bury the girl alive to coerce her into undergoing an abortion. The girl managed to escape and informed her family about the rape, leading them to file a police report.&nbsp;The police identified the two brothers, who were later arrested, as Bhagyadhar Das (60) and Panchanan Das (58), who worked as a cook and pujari, respectively, at an ashram located in the Kujang block of the district. According to police, the rape survivor had come across the two men during her visits to the ashram, where they raped her multiple times.&nbsp;After they found out that she was pregnant, the brothers pressured the girl to abort the pregnancy. When she declined, they enticed her to a secluded area where they had excavated a big hole. Tirtol sub-divisional police officer Chinmay Raut said that the accused offered to pay and arrange for an abortion. “They lured her to a location where they had dug a ditch and threatened to bury her alive if she refused to go for an abortion. The survivor, somehow, managed to escape and narrated the ordeal to her father,” Raut said. “She then underwent a medical examination at the district headquarters hospital, and a case was registered at Kujang police station on basis of a complaint by her father,” said Tirtol SDPO Chinmay Raut. &nbsp;A search is currently underway for the third suspect. In the FIR, the girl’s father also claimed that he had initially reported the incident to a local panchayat official, who offered him money to conceal the matter and even threatened him if he approached the police. In a separate incident in Balasore district, police arrested four men who allegedly attempted to murder a 20-year-old woman after failing to sexually assault her while she was bathing at a pond. The four men reportedly followed the woman to the village pond and attacked her on Thursday. The suspects also attempted to rape the woman and hit her head against a stone for resisting. She, however, managed to flee and informed her family about the incident.

Odisha horror: Brothers arrested for raping teen, threaten to bury her alive

Two siblings, aged 60 and 58, were arrested in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur district on charges of repeatedly raping a 15-year-old girl who visited the ashram where they were employed, police said. Police said that the two individuals, along with an accomplice, recently threatened to bury the girl alive to coerce her into undergoing an abortion. The girl managed to escape and informed her family about the rape, leading them to file a police report. The police identified the two brothers, who were later arrested, as Bhagyadhar Das (60) and Panchanan Das (58), who worked as a cook and pujari, respectively, at an ashram located in the Kujang block of the district. According to police, the rape survivor had come across the two men during her visits to the ashram, where they raped her multiple times. After they found out that she was pregnant, the brothers pressured the girl to abort the pregnancy. When she declined, they enticed her to a secluded area where they had excavated a big hole. Tirtol sub-divisional police officer Chinmay Raut said that the accused offered to pay and arrange for an abortion. “They lured her to a location where they had dug a ditch and threatened to bury her alive if she refused to go for an abortion. The survivor, somehow, managed to escape and narrated the ordeal to her father,” Raut said. “She then underwent a medical examination at the district headquarters hospital, and a case was registered at Kujang police station on basis of a complaint by her father,” said Tirtol SDPO Chinmay Raut. A search is currently underway for the third suspect. In the FIR, the girl’s father also claimed that he had initially reported the incident to a local panchayat official, who offered him money to conceal the matter and even threatened him if he approached the police. In a separate incident in Balasore district, police arrested four men who allegedly attempted to murder a 20-year-old woman after failing to sexually assault her while she was bathing at a pond. The four men reportedly followed the woman to the village pond and attacked her on Thursday. The suspects also attempted to rape the woman and hit her head against a stone for resisting. She, however, managed to flee and informed her family about the incident.

The accused have been identified as Bhagyadhar Das (60) and Panchanan Das (58), who worked as a cook and pujari respectively

A senior Ukrainian commander said on Friday that Elon Musk's Starlink systems were down for at least two and a half hours overnight, affecting the forces that have been fighting a protracted war with Russia. The outage revealed Ukraine's communication vulnerabilities.&nbsp;The country's forces are reliant on Starlink for communications on the battlefield and drone operations. Starlink's global outage was the result of an internal software failure, which disabled internet services for thousands of users across the world.&nbsp;On Thursday, Robert Brovdi, the commander of Ukraine's drone forces, which uses Starlink, wrote on Telegram that the service was down "across the entire front," reported Reuters.&nbsp;Starlink, which has partnered with two service providers in India, has over 6 million users across 140 nations. It acknowledged the global outage on X, an Elon Musk-owned platform, saying they were "implementing a solution".&nbsp;By 1.05 am on Friday, the issue had been resolved, said the commander. However, he said, the incident revealed the risk of reliance on just one service and demanded diversification of Ukraine's communication networks.&nbsp;He said that due to the outage, combat missions were performed without a video feed, and battlefield reconnaissance was performed without drones. "Combat missions were performed without a (video) feed, battlefield reconnaissance was done with strike (drones)," he wrote.&nbsp;Another commander told the agency that his unit was forced to postpone combat operations because of the Starlink outage.&nbsp;Oleksandr Dmitriev, the founder of OCHI, a Ukrainian system that centralises feeds from thousands of drone crews across the frontline, told Reuters that the outage highlighted the risk of relying on Starlink's internet services.&nbsp;"If connection to the internet is lost ... the ability to conduct combat operations is practically gone," he said.

A senior Ukrainian commander said on Friday that Elon Musk's Starlink systems were down for at least two and a half hours overnight, affecting the forces that have been fighting a protracted war with Russia. The outage revealed Ukraine's communication vulnerabilities.

A senior Ukrainian commander said on Friday that Elon Musk's Starlink systems were down for at least two and a half hours overnight, affecting the forces that have been fighting a protracted war with Russia. The outage revealed Ukraine's communication vulnerabilities. The country's forces are reliant on Starlink for communications on the battlefield and drone operations. Starlink's global outage was the result of an internal software failure, which disabled internet services for thousands of users across the world. On Thursday, Robert Brovdi, the commander of Ukraine's drone forces, which uses Starlink, wrote on Telegram that the service was down "across the entire front," reported Reuters. Starlink, which has partnered with two service providers in India, has over 6 million users across 140 nations. It acknowledged the global outage on X, an Elon Musk-owned platform, saying they were "implementing a solution". By 1.05 am on Friday, the issue had been resolved, said the commander. However, he said, the incident revealed the risk of reliance on just one service and demanded diversification of Ukraine's communication networks. He said that due to the outage, combat missions were performed without a video feed, and battlefield reconnaissance was performed without drones. "Combat missions were performed without a (video) feed, battlefield reconnaissance was done with strike (drones)," he wrote. Another commander told the agency that his unit was forced to postpone combat operations because of the Starlink outage. Oleksandr Dmitriev, the founder of OCHI, a Ukrainian system that centralises feeds from thousands of drone crews across the frontline, told Reuters that the outage highlighted the risk of relying on Starlink's internet services. "If connection to the internet is lost ... the ability to conduct combat operations is practically gone," he said.

Starlink outage: Ukraine is reliant on Starlink for communications on the battlefield and drone operations.

How Starlink outage forced Ukraine to fight without internet: 'Combat without video feed'

A 53-year-old Rajasthan man will appear in court as a juvenile for raping a minor girl. The man will appear before a juvenile justice board in Ajmer, the Supreme Court of India ruled on July 23. The man raped a minor in 1988, for which he was sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment by a trial court, a decision upheld by the Rajasthan High Court in 2024.&nbsp;Now, in 2025, the accused appealed to the Supreme Court seeking to treat him as a juvenile and claiming that he was only 16 years old when he committed the crime. His claim was proved by his school records, which indicated the date of birth of the accused as July 1, 1972.&nbsp;The Indian apex court, led by Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih, accepted his claim as the evidence was reliable under the Juvenile Justice Act.&nbsp;Although the Rajasthan government counsel objected to the claim of the accused and argued against granting juvenile status after decades. But the apex court cited prior rulings that the plea of juvenility can be raised at any stage, even after a case’s disposal. The SC directed the JJB to issue appropriate orders. The JJB may send the man to a special home for a maximum of three years, as per the Juvenile Justice Act.&nbsp;How does the JJB act work?&nbsp;As per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a juvenile is a person who is under the age of 18 at the time of committing a crime. Juveniles are tried by the Juvenile Justice Board, not adult courts. They cannot face adult penalties like life imprisonment or death.&nbsp;When the accused committed the rape, the &nbsp;Juvenile Justice Act, 1986, was enforced, which classified boys under 16 as juveniles and girls under 18 as juveniles. But the &nbsp;Supreme Court applied the beneficial provisions of the 2015 Act, which raised the age to 18 for all children.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 53-year-old man from Rajasthan, who raped a minor in 1988, will be sentenced as a juvenile for his crime in India. This is due to the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, which mandates the accused to be treated as a juvenile if he was under 18 at the time of the offence. 

A 53-year-old Rajasthan man will appear in court as a juvenile for raping a minor girl. The man will appear before a juvenile justice board in Ajmer, the Supreme Court of India ruled on July 23. The man raped a minor in 1988, for which he was sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment by a trial court, a decision upheld by the Rajasthan High Court in 2024. Now, in 2025, the accused appealed to the Supreme Court seeking to treat him as a juvenile and claiming that he was only 16 years old when he committed the crime. His claim was proved by his school records, which indicated the date of birth of the accused as July 1, 1972. The Indian apex court, led by Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih, accepted his claim as the evidence was reliable under the Juvenile Justice Act. Although the Rajasthan government counsel objected to the claim of the accused and argued against granting juvenile status after decades. But the apex court cited prior rulings that the plea of juvenility can be raised at any stage, even after a case’s disposal. The SC directed the JJB to issue appropriate orders. The JJB may send the man to a special home for a maximum of three years, as per the Juvenile Justice Act. How does the JJB act work? As per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a juvenile is a person who is under the age of 18 at the time of committing a crime. Juveniles are tried by the Juvenile Justice Board, not adult courts. They cannot face adult penalties like life imprisonment or death. When the accused committed the rape, the Juvenile Justice Act, 1986, was enforced, which classified boys under 16 as juveniles and girls under 18 as juveniles. But the Supreme Court applied the beneficial provisions of the 2015 Act, which raised the age to 18 for all children.

A 53-year-old man from Rajasthan, who raped a minor in 1988, will be sentenced as a juvenile for his crime in India. This is due to the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, which mandates the accused to be treated as a juvenile if he was under 18 at the time of the offence.&nbsp;

Why a 53-year-old rapist will be sentenced as a juvenile in India | WION Explains

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the Maldives on Friday (July 25) for a two-day state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic tensions. The Indian PM was welcomed with a 21-gun salute at the 60th Independence Day celebrations in the Maldives during his state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic clashes. The Indian PM is attending the event as a guest of honour at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit is PM Modi's third trip to the Maldives as Prime Minister and the first by any foreign head of state or government since President Muizzu assumed office.&nbsp;The Defence Ministry of the Maldives displayed a giant portrait of PM Modi to honour his visit. The poster sent people in a flashback to 2023 when the country has displayed a giant "India out" poster during the diplomatic clashes. That was part of the poll promises of the parliamentary elections by Muizzu, where he had promised to send back the Indian troops from the Maldives. Muizzu promised that he would send back Indian troops to make sure that there is no “Indian influence.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwskhbzXcAAg-WK?format=jpg&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>

'India Out' poster in 2023 in Maldives

Muizzu, along with his senior cabinet members, received PM Modi at the Male airport on Friday for his state visit to the Maldives on July 25-26. PM Modi is scheduled to hold wide-ranging discussions with President Mohamed Muizzu and inaugurate several development projects supported by India across the island nation. The Maldivian capital Male was decked up with colourful banners, giant posters and the Indian national flag lining the streets.&nbsp;'Making significant efforts'&nbsp;The Indian prime minister expressed gratitude to the Indian community for their warm and rousing welcome."India and the Maldives are making significant efforts to further strengthen their mutual relations. The people of India play a very important role in this journey. During this visit, the interactions between the people of India living in the Maldives were delightful. Heartfelt thanks for the warm welcome," PM Modi wrote on the social media platform X.&nbsp;

As the Indian PM Modi visited the Maldives for his two-day state visit, the defence ministry of the island nation welcomed him with his giant poster on the ministry building. This reminded people of the India out poster in 2023 during diplomatic tensions. 

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the Maldives on Friday (July 25) for a two-day state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic tensions. The Indian PM was welcomed with a 21-gun salute at the 60th Independence Day celebrations in the Maldives during his state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic clashes. The Indian PM is attending the event as a guest of honour at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit is PM Modi's third trip to the Maldives as Prime Minister and the first by any foreign head of state or government since President Muizzu assumed office. The Defence Ministry of the Maldives displayed a giant portrait of PM Modi to honour his visit. The poster sent people in a flashback to 2023 when the country has displayed a giant "India out" poster during the diplomatic clashes. That was part of the poll promises of the parliamentary elections by Muizzu, where he had promised to send back the Indian troops from the Maldives. Muizzu promised that he would send back Indian troops to make sure that there is no “Indian influence.”

As the Indian PM Modi visited the Maldives for his two-day state visit, the defence ministry of the island nation welcomed him with his giant poster on the ministry's building. This reminded people of the ‘India out’ poster in 2023 during diplomatic tensions.&nbsp;

From 'India out' to Modi in Male: These 2 posters narrate a tale of India-Maldives ties over time

In a significant ruling, the Karnataka High Court has quashed an FIR against three muslim accused of preaching Islam inside a Hindu temple on the grounds that sharing religious beliefs doesn't amount to conversion.The case emerged from Jamkhandi in Bagalkot district, where three Muslim men were preaching Islam and distributing religious pamphlets and leaflets, allegedly making statements about Islam in the vicinity of a temple premise. Soon after, a resident filed a complaint, accusing them of attempting conversion, with giving promises of jobs and derogatory remarks against Hinduism.The court found no merit in the FIR. In its order, the bench observed that the cases of these three particular Muslim men do not provide any concrete evidence of coercion or force. It is mere preaching and distribution of literature; it does not constitute an offence under the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022. Unless there is evidence of force, fraud or inducement with the purpose of converting someone.&nbsp;Additionally, the High Court noticed that the complainant was neither the victim nor any relative of the victim, thus making the complaint legally unsustainable. Under section 4 of the act, only the aggrieved person or their relatives' complaints are eligible for legal implications.&nbsp;“The essence of a free society lies in the freedom to express, discuss, and propagate beliefs,” the court observed, adding that without coercion or allurement, the act of preaching cannot be criminalised.<h2>Why is it Important ?</h2>With the growing instances of islamophobia across India and the major crackdown on the freedom of religious preaching and practices of minorities especially Muslims in public places, the verdict comes as a major relief as it intends to maintain the delicate balance between religious freedom and anti-conversion laws in India. On one hand states like Karnataka have introduced stricter anti-conversion regulations, on the other hand courts continue to emphasise that propagation of faith is a fundamental right, protected under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution.

In a bold decision Karnataka High Court quashed an FIR against three muslim men who were reportedly preaching Islam in the premises of a Hindu Temple because the case did not find any evidence of coercion.

In a significant ruling, the Karnataka High Court has quashed an FIR against three muslim accused of preaching Islam inside a Hindu temple on the grounds that sharing religious beliefs doesn't amount to conversion. The case emerged from Jamkhandi in Bagalkot district, where three Muslim men were preaching Islam and distributing religious pamphlets and leaflets, allegedly making statements about Islam in the vicinity of a temple premise. Soon after, a resident filed a complaint, accusing them of attempting conversion, with giving promises of jobs and derogatory remarks against Hinduism. The court found no merit in the FIR. In its order, the bench observed that the cases of these three particular Muslim men do not provide any concrete evidence of coercion or force. It is mere preaching and distribution of literature; it does not constitute an offence under the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022. Unless there is evidence of force, fraud or inducement with the purpose of converting someone. Additionally, the High Court noticed that the complainant was neither the victim nor any relative of the victim, thus making the complaint legally unsustainable. Under section 4 of the act, only the aggrieved person or their relatives' complaints are eligible for legal implications. “The essence of a free society lies in the freedom to express, discuss, and propagate beliefs,” the court observed, adding that without coercion or allurement, the act of preaching cannot be criminalised. Why is it Important ? With the growing instances of islamophobia across India and the major crackdown on the freedom of religious preaching and practices of minorities especially Muslims in public places, the verdict comes as a major relief as it intends to maintain the delicate balance between religious freedom and anti-conversion laws in India. On one hand states like Karnataka have introduced stricter anti-conversion regulations, on the other hand courts continue to emphasise that propagation of faith is a fundamental right, protected under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution.

In a bold decision Karnataka High Court quashed an FIR against three muslim men who were reportedly preaching Islam in the premises of a Hindu Temple because the case did not find any evidence of coercion.

Preaching Islam in temple isn’t conversion:Bold verdict by Karnataka High Court

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Maldives from the United Kingdom on Thursday (July 26) for a two-day visit. The PM was welcomed by the Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu. The prime minister will join the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honour. Addressing the press meet with President of Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, Modi said, "First of all, on behalf of the people of India, I would like to extend heartiest greetings to the President and people of Maldives on the historic occasion of the 60th year of independence. For inviting me as the Guest of Honour on this historic occasion, I express heartfelt gratitude to the President."&nbsp;The Indian PM also announced 565 million as Line of Credit for Maldives, while also saying that India is working towards finalising Bilateral Investment Treaty.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Muizzu said, “The Prime Minister's visit coincides with two cherished occasions. Tomorrow, PM Modi will join me in the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives. Today, we have jointly released a commemorative stamp to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the Maldives and this afternoon, Prime Minister Modi and I had extensive discussions...Prime Minister Modi and I had the honour of witnessing the signing of four MoUs and three agreements on several key areas. Among these is a line of credit agreement for $ 565 million. This will be utilised for priority projects of my government across key sectors.”&nbsp;“I am also pleased to announce the initiation of negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and Maldives. This landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening our economic partnership. India remains a key source of market of tourism for Maldives and that Maldives will extend full support to India as host of COP23,” he further added.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed with a 21-gun salute during his state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic clashes. The Indian PM is attending the event as a guest of honour at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit is PM Modi's third trip to the Maldives as Prime Minister and the first by any foreign head of state or government since President Muizzu assumed office.

PM Modi in Maldives India will continue to assist Maldives in growth and development

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Maldives from the United Kingdom on Thursday (July 26) for a two-day visit. The PM was welcomed by the Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu. The prime minister will join the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honour. Addressing the press meet with President of Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, Modi said, "First of all, on behalf of the people of India, I would like to extend heartiest greetings to the President and people of Maldives on the historic occasion of the 60th year of independence. For inviting me as the Guest of Honour on this historic occasion, I express heartfelt gratitude to the President." The Indian PM also announced 565 million as Line of Credit for Maldives, while also saying that India is working towards finalising Bilateral Investment Treaty. Meanwhile, Muizzu said, “The Prime Minister's visit coincides with two cherished occasions. Tomorrow, PM Modi will join me in the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives. Today, we have jointly released a commemorative stamp to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the Maldives and this afternoon, Prime Minister Modi and I had extensive discussions...Prime Minister Modi and I had the honour of witnessing the signing of four MoUs and three agreements on several key areas. Among these is a line of credit agreement for $ 565 million. This will be utilised for priority projects of my government across key sectors.” “I am also pleased to announce the initiation of negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and Maldives. This landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening our economic partnership. India remains a key source of market of tourism for Maldives and that Maldives will extend full support to India as host of COP23,” he further added. Earlier in the day, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed with a 21-gun salute during his state visit to the country for the first time after diplomatic clashes. The Indian PM is attending the event as a guest of honour at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. The visit is PM Modi's third trip to the Maldives as Prime Minister and the first by any foreign head of state or government since President Muizzu assumed office.

Earlier in the day, the Indian PM got a 21-gun salute with President Mohamed Muizzu by his side

PM Modi in Maldives: 'India will continue to assist Maldives in growth and development'

Former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav, who was expelled by his father Lalu Yadav from RJD and the family over his relationship with Anushka Yadav, said on Friday that he had started preparations for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. He reportedly unfollowed his sisters, Misa Bharati, Raj Laxmi Yadav, and Hema Yadav, signaling a raging family feud. "We have started preparations for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, and only time will tell whose government will be formed in Bihar," he said.&nbsp;Tej Pratap Yadav, however, continues to follow Lalu Prasad Yadav, the RJD founder, and Rabri Devi, his mother, on X.&nbsp;In May, Lalu Yadav expelled Tej Pratap from RJD for six years over “irresponsible behaviour”. He also snapped his and his family's ties with Yadav. "The activities, public conduct, and irresponsible behaviour of the eldest son are not per our family values and traditions. Hence, I removed him from the party and the family," he wrote on X in May, adding that he would not play any role in the party or the family.&nbsp;On Thursday, Tej Pratap Yadav told India Today that he would contest the polls from the Mahua assembly constituency independently, even if the RJD ignores him for the election ticket.&nbsp;"The people of Mahua only want me to contest from here. They are saying that if anyone else from the RJD is fielded here, they will not vote for him. If the party (RJD) gives me a ticket, I will contest for the RJD. If it doesn't, I will contest as an Independent candidate, but will fight from Mahua only. It is my land of action," he said.&nbsp;Tej Pratap Yadav won the 2015 Bihar assembly elections from Mahua. He became Bihar's health minister. He said he and his mother, Rabri Devi, had provided ambulances to the constituency using their funds as lawmakers.

Former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav, who was expelled by his father Lalu Yadav from RJD and the family over his relationship with Anushka Yadav, said on Friday that he has started preparing for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. 

Former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav, who was expelled by his father Lalu Yadav from RJD and the family over his relationship with Anushka Yadav, said on Friday that he had started preparations for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. He reportedly unfollowed his sisters, Misa Bharati, Raj Laxmi Yadav, and Hema Yadav, signaling a raging family feud. "We have started preparations for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, and only time will tell whose government will be formed in Bihar," he said. Tej Pratap Yadav, however, continues to follow Lalu Prasad Yadav, the RJD founder, and Rabri Devi, his mother, on X. In May, Lalu Yadav expelled Tej Pratap from RJD for six years over “irresponsible behaviour”. He also snapped his and his family's ties with Yadav. "The activities, public conduct, and irresponsible behaviour of the eldest son are not per our family values and traditions. Hence, I removed him from the party and the family," he wrote on X in May, adding that he would not play any role in the party or the family. On Thursday, Tej Pratap Yadav told India Today that he would contest the polls from the Mahua assembly constituency independently, even if the RJD ignores him for the election ticket. "The people of Mahua only want me to contest from here. They are saying that if anyone else from the RJD is fielded here, they will not vote for him. If the party (RJD) gives me a ticket, I will contest for the RJD. If it doesn't, I will contest as an Independent candidate, but will fight from Mahua only. It is my land of action," he said. Tej Pratap Yadav won the 2015 Bihar assembly elections from Mahua. He became Bihar's health minister. He said he and his mother, Rabri Devi, had provided ambulances to the constituency using their funds as lawmakers.

Bihar assembly elections: Tej Pratap Yadav won the 2015 Bihar assembly elections from Mahua.&nbsp;

Bihar assembly elections: What are Tej Pratap Yadav's electoral plans?

Former chief minister of Bihar, Rabri Devi, alleged that her son and the RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has a threat of life from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) ahead of the assembly election in the Indian state. Devi claimed that Yadav, the leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, had been through four assassination attempts and that his life was under severe threat.&nbsp;“BJP and JD (U) are conspiring... We know who is behind it,” she said outside the state legislative council.After this, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha &nbsp;accused RJD members of instilling fear and hooliganism, reminiscent of their "jungle raaj." He said that the Yadav family should give a statement in writing about the threat.&nbsp;"Those who think they are not safe, they should give it in writing, though they have complete security. They have the facilities of two former CMs and are still afraid. The entire Bihar is scared of their (RJD) own people... There is no need to be scared, full security will be provided by the government... Their (RJD) people speak the language of hooliganism that is taught in the school of their jungle raaj..." Sinha said.&nbsp;Moreover, the State BJP chief Dilip Kumar Jaiswal dismissed the allegations and called it baseless and politically motivated.&nbsp;Boycott the Bihar elections?&nbsp;This came after &nbsp;Yadav said on Thursday (July 24) that the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar could boycott the assembly elections scheduled for later this year. Reacting to the Special Intensive Revision row, Yadav said, “We are keeping the option of boycotting Bihar assembly polls open." His statement came amid the controversy on the Election Commission’s voter roll revision in Bihar.&nbsp;"When everything is already decided...that there will be an open fraud...lakhs of names will be erased, and these were the same people who voted for PM Modi...when these people elected previous governments, then suddenly what happened?" the Bihar leader asked while talking to the press, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mother of Tejashwi Yadav and former Bihar CM Rabri Devi alleged a life threat to RJD leader by the BJP ahead of the assembly polls in the Indian state. The party rejected the claims.  

Former chief minister of Bihar, Rabri Devi, alleged that her son and the RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has a threat of life from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) ahead of the assembly election in the Indian state. Devi claimed that Yadav, the leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, had been through four assassination attempts and that his life was under severe threat. “BJP and JD (U) are conspiring... We know who is behind it,” she said outside the state legislative council. After this, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha accused RJD members of instilling fear and hooliganism, reminiscent of their "jungle raaj." He said that the Yadav family should give a statement in writing about the threat. "Those who think they are not safe, they should give it in writing, though they have complete security. They have the facilities of two former CMs and are still afraid. The entire Bihar is scared of their (RJD) own people... There is no need to be scared, full security will be provided by the government... Their (RJD) people speak the language of hooliganism that is taught in the school of their jungle raaj..." Sinha said. Moreover, the State BJP chief Dilip Kumar Jaiswal dismissed the allegations and called it baseless and politically motivated. Boycott the Bihar elections? This came after Yadav said on Thursday (July 24) that the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar could boycott the assembly elections scheduled for later this year. Reacting to the Special Intensive Revision row, Yadav said, “We are keeping the option of boycotting Bihar assembly polls open." His statement came amid the controversy on the Election Commission’s voter roll revision in Bihar. "When everything is already decided...that there will be an open fraud...lakhs of names will be erased, and these were the same people who voted for PM Modi...when these people elected previous governments, then suddenly what happened?" the Bihar leader asked while talking to the press, news agency ANI reported.

Tejashwi Yadav's mother and former Bihar CM Rabri Devi alleged a life threat to RJD leader by the BJP ahead of the assembly polls in the Indian state. The party rejected the claims. &nbsp;

Rabri Devi alleges life threat to son Tejashwi Yadav from BJP, party says, 'entire Bihar is scared of...'

An Army jawan was killed and two were injured in a landmine explosion on Friday (July 25) on the Line of Control (LoC) in J&amp;K's Poonch region. The White Knight Corps of the Indian Army took it to X to offer condolences on the death of the soldier and said, "#GOC #WhiteKnightCorps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Agniveer Lalit Kumar of 7 JAT Regiment, who made the supreme sacrifice, while on an area domination patrol in general area of #Krishna Ghati brigade on 25 July 2025, following a mine blast. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-still-continues-chief-of-defence-staff-says-indian-military-must-remain-at-very-high-level-1753440198463">Operation Sindoor 'still continues': Chief of Defence Staff says Indian military must remain at 'very high' level</a>&nbsp;Operations were also launched in Sari, Ustan, Pathankhor, Lohar Mohalla, Chandimarh, Phagal, Hari top and Kaagwali in Surankote, Limba, and Ucchad and Kallar-Gursai in Mendhar, but no arrests were made, officials said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhiteKnightCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhiteKnightCorps</a> and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Agniveer Lalit Kumar, who made the supreme sacrifice, while on an area domination patrol in general area of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Krishna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Krishna</a> Ghati brigade on 25 July 2025, following a mine blast. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of… <a href="https://t.co/kA0VSNl5Qp">pic.twitter.com/kA0VSNl5Qp</a>&mdash; White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Whiteknight_IA/status/1948714726290018548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Security deployment has also been massive in the valley in light of the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage that is currently ongoing. Earlier during the week, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat presided over a high-level joint meeting to discuss security arrangements for the upcoming Budha Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-26th-anniversary-of-kargil-vijay-diwas-indian-army-kick-starts-a-rally-from-srinagar-to-loc-1753427090991">On 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Indian Army kick starts a rally from Srinagar to LoC</a>&nbsp;The 13-day-long 'Budha Amarnath' pilgrimage in Poonch will start on July 28 from Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu and end on August 9. J&amp;K DGP Nalin Prabhat, Special DGP Javaid Gillani, IGP Bhimsen Tuti, and IG CRPF Gopal K Rao arrived at the district police lines at Poonch and conducted a joint security review with Rajouri and Poonch officers for the yatra that is scheduled to take place, officials said.

Army jawan killed two others injured after landmine blast in J&Ks Poonch

An Army jawan was killed and two were injured in a landmine explosion on Friday (July 25) on the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K's Poonch region. The White Knight Corps of the Indian Army took it to X to offer condolences on the death of the soldier and said, "#GOC #WhiteKnightCorps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Agniveer Lalit Kumar of 7 JAT Regiment, who made the supreme sacrifice, while on an area domination patrol in general area of #Krishna Ghati brigade on 25 July 2025, following a mine blast. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief." Also Read: Operation Sindoor 'still continues': Chief of Defence Staff says Indian military must remain at 'very high' level Operations were also launched in Sari, Ustan, Pathankhor, Lohar Mohalla, Chandimarh, Phagal, Hari top and Kaagwali in Surankote, Limba, and Ucchad and Kallar-Gursai in Mendhar, but no arrests were made, officials said.

Following this, &nbsp;search operations were launched by special operations group of local police, CRPF and Rashtriya Rifles in different areas of Poonch's Surankote and Mendhar regions

Army jawan killed, two others injured after landmine blast in J&K's Poonch

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday gave a statutory resolution to extend the already imposed President's rule in Manipur till February 13, 2026, which was admitted by the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;"That this House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation dated February 13, 2025, in respect of Manipur, issued under article 356 of the Constitution by the President, for a further period of six months with effect from August 13, 2025," the Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Bulletin stated.&nbsp;The centre imposed President's rule in Manipur on February 13, days after N Biren Singh resigned from his position as the Chief Minister on February 9.&nbsp;This comes months after 25 Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs met at the residence of party MLA Thongam Biswajit Singh in Imphal to push for the formation of a popular government in Manipur.&nbsp;On May 28, nearly 10 MLAs, including eight from the BJP, one from the National People's Party (NPP), and one Independent MLA, met Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal to stake a claim to form a government in the state.&nbsp;In February, President Droupadi Murmu imposed President's rule in Manipur after receiving a report from the state governor. Singh resigned amid violence and political instability that had plagued the state for nearly two years.&nbsp;The decision, exercised under Article 356 of the Constitution, means that the president will now directly control the state's administrative functions through the Governor.&nbsp;The proclamation, published in the Gazette of India issued by the Union Home Ministry, states that the powers of the Manipur Legislative Assembly will be transferred to Parliament, effectively suspending the state government's authority.&nbsp;Under this order, the Governor's powers will now be exercised by the President; the state legislature's authority will be assumed by Parliament; and specific articles of the Constitution, including those concerning legislative procedures and governance, have been suspended to ensure smooth central administration.&nbsp;The President's rule is typically imposed when a state government is deemed incapable of functioning in accordance with constitutional norms. The move follows political instability and concerns about law and order in Manipur. The suspension of legislative powers means that all state laws and decisions will now be made under central authority, either by Parliament or the President.&nbsp;The imposition of the President's rule can last up to six months, subject to parliamentary approval. During this period, the central government will oversee governance, and fresh elections may be called to elect a new assembly.&nbsp;The unrest in Manipur primarily involved clashes between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zomi tribes. Tensions escalated over disputes related to economic benefits, job quotas, and land rights. The violence resulted in hundreds of fatalities and displaced approximately 60,000 individuals.

The centre imposed President's rule in Manipur on February 13, days after N Biren Singh resigned from his position as the Chief Minister on February 9.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday gave a statutory resolution to extend the already imposed President's rule in Manipur till February 13, 2026, which was admitted by the Rajya Sabha. "That this House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation dated February 13, 2025, in respect of Manipur, issued under article 356 of the Constitution by the President, for a further period of six months with effect from August 13, 2025," the Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Bulletin stated. The centre imposed President's rule in Manipur on February 13, days after N Biren Singh resigned from his position as the Chief Minister on February 9. This comes months after 25 Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs met at the residence of party MLA Thongam Biswajit Singh in Imphal to push for the formation of a popular government in Manipur. On May 28, nearly 10 MLAs, including eight from the BJP, one from the National People's Party (NPP), and one Independent MLA, met Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal to stake a claim to form a government in the state. In February, President Droupadi Murmu imposed President's rule in Manipur after receiving a report from the state governor. Singh resigned amid violence and political instability that had plagued the state for nearly two years. The decision, exercised under Article 356 of the Constitution, means that the president will now directly control the state's administrative functions through the Governor. The proclamation, published in the Gazette of India issued by the Union Home Ministry, states that the powers of the Manipur Legislative Assembly will be transferred to Parliament, effectively suspending the state government's authority. Under this order, the Governor's powers will now be exercised by the President; the state legislature's authority will be assumed by Parliament; and specific articles of the Constitution, including those concerning legislative procedures and governance, have been suspended to ensure smooth central administration. The President's rule is typically imposed when a state government is deemed incapable of functioning in accordance with constitutional norms. The move follows political instability and concerns about law and order in Manipur. The suspension of legislative powers means that all state laws and decisions will now be made under central authority, either by Parliament or the President. The imposition of the President's rule can last up to six months, subject to parliamentary approval. During this period, the central government will oversee governance, and fresh elections may be called to elect a new assembly. The unrest in Manipur primarily involved clashes between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zomi tribes. Tensions escalated over disputes related to economic benefits, job quotas, and land rights. The violence resulted in hundreds of fatalities and displaced approximately 60,000 individuals.

The centre imposed President's rule in Manipur on February 13, days after N Biren Singh resigned from his position as the Chief Minister on February 9.

President rule extended in Manipur for six months

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President rule extended in Manipur for six months