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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday alleged that Bengali-speaking people from her state were being subjected to atrocities in BJP-ruled Haryana's Gurugram. Claiming that Bengalis were being tortured by the BJP's double-engine governments, Banerjee described the alleged acts of the authorities as “linguistic terror”. Reacting to the attack, the BJP claimed the Bengal Chief Minister was lying by equating illegal Bangladeshi intruders with Indian Bengalis.&nbsp;"Have been increasingly receiving reports of detentions and atrocities on our Bengali-speaking people from different districts of West Bengal in Gurgaon, Haryana. West Bengal police is receiving these reports from Haryana police in the name of requests for identity searches," Banerjee wrote on X.&nbsp;"Have been separately and increasingly receiving reports from other States like Rajasthan, etc., about illegal "pushbacks" of West Bengal citizens with all proper documents to Bangladesh directly!! Our officers have received copies of their appropriate documents! There are tortures, and tortures on hapless poor Bengali workers from West Bengal in these States. I am shocked to see these terrible atrocities of double-engine governments against Bengalis in India. What do you want to prove? This is atrocious and terrible. We are not going to tolerate this. Stop this linguistic terror!" she added.&nbsp;BJP leader Amit Malviya called Banerjee a disgrace. He said the BJP governments won't spare illegal immigrants.&nbsp;"You are LYING. Those being questioned are illegal Bangladeshis, who perhaps speak Bangla but are NOT Indian citizens. You are a DISGRACE to equate Indian citizens from West Bengal with illegal migrants from Bangladesh, just because all of them happen to be TMC voters. Your administration has enabled these illegal migrants to obtain Aadhaar and other government documents before infiltrating other parts of India — all on the condition that they return to vote for the TMC in every election. Remember: no ILLEGAL migrant will be spared. Stop using the fact that they speak Bangla to further your sinister politics," he wrote on X.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee claimed that the Haryana Police had sent a letter seeking verification from district magistrates and superintendents of police of the names of 52 migrants from Bengal. She described the letters as a "terrorism of language".

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday alleged that Bengali-speaking people from her state were being subjected to atrocities in BJP-ruled Haryana's Gurugram.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday alleged that Bengali-speaking people from her state were being subjected to atrocities in BJP-ruled Haryana's Gurugram. Claiming that Bengalis were being tortured by the BJP's double-engine governments, Banerjee described the alleged acts of the authorities as “linguistic terror”. Reacting to the attack, the BJP claimed the Bengal Chief Minister was lying by equating illegal Bangladeshi intruders with Indian Bengalis. "Have been increasingly receiving reports of detentions and atrocities on our Bengali-speaking people from different districts of West Bengal in Gurgaon, Haryana. West Bengal police is receiving these reports from Haryana police in the name of requests for identity searches," Banerjee wrote on X. "Have been separately and increasingly receiving reports from other States like Rajasthan, etc., about illegal "pushbacks" of West Bengal citizens with all proper documents to Bangladesh directly!! Our officers have received copies of their appropriate documents! There are tortures, and tortures on hapless poor Bengali workers from West Bengal in these States. I am shocked to see these terrible atrocities of double-engine governments against Bengalis in India. What do you want to prove? This is atrocious and terrible. We are not going to tolerate this. Stop this linguistic terror!" she added. BJP leader Amit Malviya called Banerjee a disgrace. He said the BJP governments won't spare illegal immigrants. "You are LYING. Those being questioned are illegal Bangladeshis, who perhaps speak Bangla but are NOT Indian citizens. You are a DISGRACE to equate Indian citizens from West Bengal with illegal migrants from Bangladesh, just because all of them happen to be TMC voters. Your administration has enabled these illegal migrants to obtain Aadhaar and other government documents before infiltrating other parts of India — all on the condition that they return to vote for the TMC in every election. Remember: no ILLEGAL migrant will be spared. Stop using the fact that they speak Bangla to further your sinister politics," he wrote on X. On Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee claimed that the Haryana Police had sent a letter seeking verification from district magistrates and superintendents of police of the names of 52 migrants from Bengal. She described the letters as a "terrorism of language".

BJP leader Amit Malviya called Mamata Banerjee a disgrace and vowed that her party's governments won't spare illegal immigrants.

'Linguistic terror': Mamata Banerjee alleges atrocities against Bengalis in Gurugram; BJP says 'she's lying'

In a special briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Kingdom, foreign secretary Vikram Misri said on Thursday that India shared its concerns over extremists becoming increasingly active on UK soil and threatening the safety and security of its leaders and diplomats and received cooperation from the British authorities on this matter. Sharing details with the media on Thursday, Misri said, “With regard to the activities of extremists, we shared our thoughts and views. We have noted the fact that they are increasingly active and have in past and continue to threaten the safety and security of our diplomatic missions and personnel, inciting violence against our leaders and our diplomats...We received cooperation from the UK on this matter.”&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-and-starmer-seal-free-trade-agreement-what-are-the-big-gains-for-india-1753375436743/embed&nbsp;Referring to PM Modi’s interaction with UK PM Keir Starmer, the foreign secretary said, “The leaders also had the opportunity to discuss at some length the menace of terrorism. Prime Minister Modi thanked UK PM Keir Starmer for the strong support and solidarity extended by the United Kingdom to the people of India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. Both leaders expressed a commitment to strengthening the global fight against terrorism. It was noted that extremism and radicalisation pose a threat to both societies and that there is a need to further enhance bilateral collaboration and cooperation to deal with these scourges of terrorism, extremism and radicalisation. Prime Minister Modi also sought the UK’s cooperation to bring to justice economic offenders and fugitives from Indian law.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | London, UK | Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, &quot;...With regard to the activities of extremists, we shared our thoughts and views. We have noted the fact that they are increasingly active and have in past and continue to threaten the safety and security of our… <a href="https://t.co/6xgzEMfJNu">pic.twitter.com/6xgzEMfJNu</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1948389670770917827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Misri also revealed that the Central Bureau of Investigation of India (CBI) signed an MoU with the UK National Crime Agency to combat instances of corruption, serious fraud and organised crime.<h2>‘India against illegal migration’</h2>&nbsp;As for tackling illegal migration, Misri said, “We have emphasised that the government of India is clearly against illegal migration and we have worked in past and will continue to work on these issues, including for the purpose of repatriating such illegal immigrants.”&nbsp;PM Modi also invited PM Starmer to visit India at his earliest convenience. PM Keir Starmer accepted the invitation, shared Misri. During the engagement of PM Modi with King Charles III at the Sandringham Estate, PM Modi will hand over a sapling to King Charles III as part of ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, a tree plantation programme, he added.&nbsp;<h2>Both PMs adopt India-UK Vision 2035 document</h2>&nbsp;The foreign secretary also shared that the two PMs adopted the India-UK Vision 2035 document which will steer the relationship for the next 10 years with a focused and time bound programme of action and initiatives in economy, technology and innovation, defense and security, climate action and clean energy, education and people to people ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | London, UK | Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, &quot;The MoU that has been signed the Central Bureau of Investigation of India (CBI) and the UK National Crime Agency is intended to combat instances of corruption, serious fraud and organised crime...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/gfbzhx4KIF">pic.twitter.com/gfbzhx4KIF</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1948387086060417235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Both leaders welcomed the adoption of the Defence Industrial Roadmap, which will open up enormous opportunities for joint collaboration for the defence industries of both sides. Both leaders also expressed great happiness at the increasing collaboration in new and emerging technologies between the two countries,” Misri said.&nbsp;PM Modi was hosted by PM Keir Starmer at the Chequers Estate where they held restricted and delegation-level talks and had the opportunity to review the entire gamut of issues in the bilateral relationship.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The highlight was the signing that PM Modi and PM Keir Starmer oversaw of the historic India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Union Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds. This landmark agreement will increase trade and investment and economic cooperation between the two countries by lowering tariffs in key sectors. It will also strengthen innovation and technology collaboration. The two sides have also agreed to negotiate a Double Contribution Convention (DCC), which will enter into force along with the FTA,” the foreign secretary said.

Both PMS expressed commitment to strengthening the global fight against terrorism. It was agreed that extremism and radicalisation pose a threat to both societies and that there is a need to enhance bilateral collaboration to deal with the scourges of terrorism, extremism and radicalisation.

In a special briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Kingdom, foreign secretary Vikram Misri said on Thursday that India shared its concerns over extremists becoming increasingly active on UK soil and threatening the safety and security of its leaders and diplomats and received cooperation from the British authorities on this matter. Sharing details with the media on Thursday, Misri said, “With regard to the activities of extremists, we shared our thoughts and views. We have noted the fact that they are increasingly active and have in past and continue to threaten the safety and security of our diplomatic missions and personnel, inciting violence against our leaders and our diplomats...We received cooperation from the UK on this matter.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-and-starmer-seal-free-trade-agreement-what-are-the-big-gains-for-india-1753375436743/embed Referring to PM Modi’s interaction with UK PM Keir Starmer, the foreign secretary said, “The leaders also had the opportunity to discuss at some length the menace of terrorism. Prime Minister Modi thanked UK PM Keir Starmer for the strong support and solidarity extended by the United Kingdom to the people of India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. Both leaders expressed a commitment to strengthening the global fight against terrorism. It was noted that extremism and radicalisation pose a threat to both societies and that there is a need to further enhance bilateral collaboration and cooperation to deal with these scourges of terrorism, extremism and radicalisation. Prime Minister Modi also sought the UK’s cooperation to bring to justice economic offenders and fugitives from Indian law.”

Both PMs expressed commitment to strengthening the global fight against terrorism. It was agreed that extremism and radicalisation pose a threat to both societies and that there is a need to enhance bilateral collaboration to deal with the scourges of terrorism, extremism and radicalisation.

India, UK to cooperate in tackling extremism, terror and serious fraud: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, on Thursday shared a light moment during a joint press conference in which they announced the India-UK free trade deal. As a translator appeared to struggle with translating a few words from English to Hindi, PM Modi, who mostly delivers his speeches in Hindi, interjected, saying she was allowed to pepper a few words of English into her translations. The&nbsp;video of the incident is viral on social&nbsp;media.&nbsp;The video shows the translator struggling a bit while translating the UK PM's speech from English to Hindi. PM Modi clams her down, saying, "Don’t bother, we can use English words in between. Don't worry about it." As the nervous translator apologises to PM Modi again, he reassures her again, saying, "Don't worry".&nbsp;Keir Starmer, who appeared amused by the exchange, seconded PM Modi. "I think we understand each other well," he said.&nbsp;PM Modi is touring the UK for an official visit. Earlier today, India and the United Kingdom announced the India-UK free trade agreement. Announcing the deal, PM Modi said that the two nations had signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement after the hard work of several years. He said it was a historic day in India-UK relations, adding that the deal will ensure greater market access to several Indian exports.&nbsp;"This agreement is not just an economic agreement but also the plan for a shared prosperity. On one side, Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods will get better market access in the UK. New opportunities will emerge in the UK market for India's agricultural produce and processed food industry. This agreement will especially benefit Indian youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector," he further said at a joint press conference with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer.&nbsp;PM Modi said that the deal will ensure better access to UK-based products for Indian people and industries.&nbsp;UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for both nations and will boost wages and raise the standards of living.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | &quot;Don&#39;t bother, we can use English words in between. Don&#39;t worry about it,&quot; says PM Narendra Modi candidly as translations for questions and answers were made at their press statement and the journalists&#39; questions that followed. &quot;I think we understand each other well,&quot;… <a href="https://t.co/VUe2wqQllG">pic.twitter.com/VUe2wqQllG</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1948347051995283663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;PM Modi said that the deal will ensure better access to UK-based products for Indian people and industries.&nbsp;UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for both nations and will boost wages and raise the standards of living.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, on Thursday shared a light moment during a joint press conference in which they announced the India-UK free trade deal. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, on Thursday shared a light moment during a joint press conference in which they announced the India-UK free trade deal. As a translator appeared to struggle with translating a few words from English to Hindi, PM Modi, who mostly delivers his speeches in Hindi, interjected, saying she was allowed to pepper a few words of English into her translations. The video of the incident is viral on social media. The video shows the translator struggling a bit while translating the UK PM's speech from English to Hindi. PM Modi clams her down, saying, "Don’t bother, we can use English words in between. Don't worry about it." As the nervous translator apologises to PM Modi again, he reassures her again, saying, "Don't worry". Keir Starmer, who appeared amused by the exchange, seconded PM Modi. "I think we understand each other well," he said. PM Modi is touring the UK for an official visit. Earlier today, India and the United Kingdom announced the India-UK free trade agreement. Announcing the deal, PM Modi said that the two nations had signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement after the hard work of several years. He said it was a historic day in India-UK relations, adding that the deal will ensure greater market access to several Indian exports. "This agreement is not just an economic agreement but also the plan for a shared prosperity. On one side, Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods will get better market access in the UK. New opportunities will emerge in the UK market for India's agricultural produce and processed food industry. This agreement will especially benefit Indian youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector," he further said at a joint press conference with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer. PM Modi said that the deal will ensure better access to UK-based products for Indian people and industries. UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for both nations and will boost wages and raise the standards of living.

India-UK trade deal: The translator was translating the UK PM's speech from English to Hindi.&nbsp;

How PM Modi calmed down a struggling translator: 'Can use English...' | Watch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives on July 25, honouring the invitation extended by the country's President, Mohamed Muizzu. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said earlier this week that the two nations are in discussion to negotiate a free trade agreement and an investment treaty aimed at bolstering the economic ties. He pointed out that New Delhi continues to assist&nbsp;the Maldives in capacity-building by training its defence personnel through regular training programmes and naval exercises. "We've been helping the Maldives enhance its capacity for EEZ surveillance and maritime domain awareness through the provision of ships and assets. The two countries are also cooperating under the gamut of the Colombo security conclave," he said. PM Modi's visit comes a year and a half after the two nations' bilateral&nbsp;ties plummeted following a row over some tweets by junior Maldivian ministers. Here's what happened.&nbsp;On January 4, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the picturesque island. He posted the pictures of the island on X on January&nbsp;5. The post, however, didn't mention the Maldives. The same day, social media users began discussing why one would want to visit the Maldives when India has a picturesque place like the Lakshadweep. A huge India-Maldives diplomatic row began as three Maldivian ministers - Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid - made derogatory remarks against PM Modi over his post, calling him a puppet of Israel.&nbsp;The Indian government officially opposed the remarks made by the ministers and sought an explanation from the country. Reacting to the remark, the Muizzu government called the opinions personal.&nbsp;"The Government of the Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives," it said in a statement, adding it believed in the freedom of expression.&nbsp;Upset with the remarks against PM Modi and the stand of the Maldivian government, by January 7, several Indian social media users, including celebrities, had started posting under the trend #BoycottMaldives, asking Indians not to visit the island nation whose flagship industry is tourism.&nbsp;Many Indian celebrities asked Indian tourists to explore the Lakshadweep islands instead. These celebrities included Sachin Tendulkar, Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Shraddha Kapoor, Salman Khan, PV Sindhu, Varun Dhawan and Shilpa Shetty.&nbsp;Between January 8 and 12, Mohamed Muizzu visited China, where he made some adversarial&nbsp;remarks. However, he didn't name India. After returning from India's most prominent regional rival, China, he said the Maldives was small, but that “doesn't give you the licence to bully us”. He also said that the Maldives would diversify its imports, buying essentials from Turkey, Europe and the US, indicating the country wanted the nation to shift its reliance on New Delhi.&nbsp;On January 14, the Maldivian government asked the Indian government to withdraw its troops stationed in the country. By May 10, 2024, India had withdrawn the troops.&nbsp;Over the next few months, the number of Indian tourists in the Maldives dropped dramatically, hurting the island nation's economy. However, the two nations later began working on improving the diplomatic ties.&nbsp;In April 2024, Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer distanced his government from the derogatory remarks made by these officials, stating that it was not the government's stance and that "proper action" had been taken to ensure it was not repeated.&nbsp;In June 2024, Muizzu attended PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi.&nbsp;On October 7, 2024, Mohamed Muizzu met PM Modi in New Delhi. In the meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the bilateral ties and noted the progress made by both countries in deepening their historically close and special relationship.&nbsp;Over the past few months, the India-Maldives ties appear to have normalised. PM Modi will be the "Guest of Honour" for the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Independence of the Maldives on July 26. This will be the Prime Minister's third visit to the Maldives and the first visit by a Head of State or Government to the Maldives during the Presidency of Mohamed Muizzu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives on July 25, honouring the invitation extended by the country's President, Mohamed Muizzu. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives on July 25, honouring the invitation extended by the country's President, Mohamed Muizzu. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said earlier this week that the two nations are in discussion to negotiate a free trade agreement and an investment treaty aimed at bolstering the economic ties. He pointed out that New Delhi continues to assist the Maldives in capacity-building by training its defence personnel through regular training programmes and naval exercises. "We've been helping the Maldives enhance its capacity for EEZ surveillance and maritime domain awareness through the provision of ships and assets. The two countries are also cooperating under the gamut of the Colombo security conclave," he said. PM Modi's visit comes a year and a half after the two nations' bilateral ties plummeted following a row over some tweets by junior Maldivian ministers. Here's what happened. On January 4, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the picturesque island. He posted the pictures of the island on X on January 5. The post, however, didn't mention the Maldives. The same day, social media users began discussing why one would want to visit the Maldives when India has a picturesque place like the Lakshadweep. A huge India-Maldives diplomatic row began as three Maldivian ministers - Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid - made derogatory remarks against PM Modi over his post, calling him a puppet of Israel. The Indian government officially opposed the remarks made by the ministers and sought an explanation from the country. Reacting to the remark, the Muizzu government called the opinions personal. "The Government of the Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives," it said in a statement, adding it believed in the freedom of expression. Upset with the remarks against PM Modi and the stand of the Maldivian government, by January 7, several Indian social media users, including celebrities, had started posting under the trend #BoycottMaldives, asking Indians not to visit the island nation whose flagship industry is tourism. Many Indian celebrities asked Indian tourists to explore the Lakshadweep islands instead. These celebrities included Sachin Tendulkar, Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Shraddha Kapoor, Salman Khan, PV Sindhu, Varun Dhawan and Shilpa Shetty. Between January 8 and 12, Mohamed Muizzu visited China, where he made some adversarial remarks. However, he didn't name India. After returning from India's most prominent regional rival, China, he said the Maldives was small, but that “doesn't give you the licence to bully us”. He also said that the Maldives would diversify its imports, buying essentials from Turkey, Europe and the US, indicating the country wanted the nation to shift its reliance on New Delhi. On January 14, the Maldivian government asked the Indian government to withdraw its troops stationed in the country. By May 10, 2024, India had withdrawn the troops. Over the next few months, the number of Indian tourists in the Maldives dropped dramatically, hurting the island nation's economy. However, the two nations later began working on improving the diplomatic ties. In April 2024, Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer distanced his government from the derogatory remarks made by these officials, stating that it was not the government's stance and that "proper action" had been taken to ensure it was not repeated. In June 2024, Muizzu attended PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi. On October 7, 2024, Mohamed Muizzu met PM Modi in New Delhi. In the meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the bilateral ties and noted the progress made by both countries in deepening their historically close and special relationship. Over the past few months, the India-Maldives ties appear to have normalised. PM Modi will be the "Guest of Honour" for the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Independence of the Maldives on July 26. This will be the Prime Minister's third visit to the Maldives and the first visit by a Head of State or Government to the Maldives during the Presidency of Mohamed Muizzu.

PM Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives on July 25 to attend the country's 60th anniversary of independence. He has been invited by Mohamed Muizzu.&nbsp;

PM Modi's Maldives visit: What happened during India-Muizzu row in 2024? Timeline

India’s strategic NAVIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) series of satellites, built and maintained by the space agency ISRO, are nearly defunct, with only a bare minimum of four among 11 satellites fulfilling their core purpose, government data shows. Of these four operational satellites, one (IRNSS-1B) has already exceeded its planned life of 10 years and could stop functioning anytime, while another (IRNSS-1F) has less than a year to complete its decade in service and has suffered partial equipment failure. NAVIC is India’s own version of America’s GPS, Russia’s GLONASS, China’s Beidou and Europe’s Galileo systems. According to ISRO, India’s NAVIC constellation is meant to have five or seven operational satellites. At present, the depleted and near-defunct fleet of NAVIC satellites requires urgent replacement, given that they serve India’s strategic forces and are meant to augment warfighting capabilities.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India&#39;s desi-GPS satellites known as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> NAVIC are near-defunct.. Of 11 satellites launched, only 4 are providing core PNT services. Of these 4, 1 has completed end of planned life, 1 has partial equipment failure. Govt admitted this in Parliament, &amp; RTI by <a href="https://twitter.com/SolidBoosters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SolidBoosters</a> <a href="https://t.co/WDvm6kaTfg">pic.twitter.com/WDvm6kaTfg</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1948350953335185867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo provide global coverage, India’s NAVIC provides services only in the Indian neighbourhood (Indian mainland and 1,500 km beyond Indian borders). The Indian Government decided to fund and operationalise the NAVIC series of satellites, after precise GPS services were denied to the Indian military amid the 1999 war against neighbour Pakistan. It is well established that all operators of GPS-like satellite constellations use them for civilian and military purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Indian space agency ISRO, which builds and operates NAVIC, the constellation of satellites serves terrestrial, aerial, and maritime navigation, precision agriculture, emergency services, and fleet management, Location-based services in mobile devices, marine fisheries, timing services for financial institutions, power grids, and other government agencies, Internet-of-Things (IoT) based applications, and strategic applications.&nbsp;As is the case with GPS and other foreign services, NAVIC is also meant for use by the Indian armed forces for navigation, assigning targets to and guiding drones, missiles, smart bombs, precision-guided munitions, among others. It is learnt that NAVIC-based systems are in active use and are also being integrated with more warfighting systems of the Indian Armed Forces.&nbsp;<h2>Five of eight First-generation NAVIC satellites failed</h2>&nbsp;Between the year 2013 and 2018, ISRO launched a total of nine NAVIC satellites, which were then known as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). These satellites in the first-generation series were designated as IRNSS1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I.&nbsp;Of these nine, IRNSS 1H failed to reach orbit, due to a rocket-related failure. Therefore, only eight IRNSS satellites were successfully placed in orbit.&nbsp;Of these eight IRNSS satellites in orbit, over the years, five satellites (1A, 1C, 1D, 1E,1G) have experienced a total failure of all three atomic clocks. Each satellite carries three onboard atomic clocks and all of them failed, government data sourced via RTI shows. Further, the 1F satellite has witnessed the failure of two of three atomic clocks. According to ISRO, these atomic clocks have been sourced from Swiss firm SpectraTime, a leading provider of such high-precision atomic clocks.&nbsp;As per government data, of the eight first generation satellites only three—1B, 1F, 1I—satellites are fully functional and providing Position, Navigation, Timing Services. Among these three, 1B has already exceeded its planned life of 10years (which means it could become defunct soon), while 1F has less than a year to complete its planned decade in service, but it also faces partial atomic clock failure. 1I was launched it 2018 and it expected to work till 2028, but doubts remain given the other five premature failures.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>One of two Second Generation NAVIC satellites failed</h2>&nbsp;In order to replace the ageing fleet of IRNSS (first gen NAVIC) satellites, ISRO began launching the NVS-series of satellites. NVS is meant to be a constellation of five satellites. ISRO launched NVS-01 in May 2023 and that satellite has been working as designed, but the successor satellite NVS-02 which launched in January 2025 failed to reach its destined orbit. The satellite remains stuck in its initial orbit, as the satellite’s onboard engine could not fire to lift it higher. Stuck in the initial orbit, NVS-02 cannot provide Position, Navigation, Timing services. So far, ISRO has not publicly revealed the exact cause that led to the engine not firing.&nbsp;<h2>NAVIC satellites need urgent replacement; ISRO must speed up</h2>&nbsp;With only four operational satellites (1B, 1F, 1I, NVS-01), another failure could render NAVIC completely ineffective and inaccurate, which also affects Indian Armed Forces and their warfighting capabilities. Therefore, ISRO needs to urgently launch NVS-03, NVS-04, NVS-05. The Indian government has said in Parliament that all three remaining NVS satellites would be launched by the end of 2026. However, this seems like an unrealistic timeline, given ISRO’s pace so far.&nbsp;&nbsp;ISRO launched NVS-01 in May 2023; NVS-02 was launched in January 2025, which shows a gap of 19 months between the two launches. With NVS-02 having failed, ISRO would have to conduct thorough studies and work towards preventing similar failures in subsequent missions, and this whole process could take time. Further, the flaws identified must be corrected and software/hardware changes must be implemented in the upcoming NVS satellites.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the time of writing, ISRO has conducted only two launches in seven months of 2025 and both these missions have failed. In the first mission, NVS-02 satellite failed to reach orbit, and in the second mission the PSLV-C61 rocket failed mid-flight and the EOS-09 Earth-imaging satellite was also destroyed in the process.&nbsp;In recent years, ISRO has been performing a maximum of five or seven launches in a calendar year. Therefore, ISRO needs to work on both the rocketry front and the satellite front to ramp up its launch activity, ensure a higher rate of mission success and reliability, so that India's public-funded NAVIC can get back on track, in addition to a host of other critical missions.

India’s depleted and near-defunct fleet of NAVIC satellites requires urgent replacement since they serve India’s strategic forces and play a major role in augmenting warfighting capabilities. The NAVIC constellation is meant to have five or seven operational satellites.

India’s strategic NAVIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) series of satellites, built and maintained by the space agency ISRO, are nearly defunct, with only a bare minimum of four among 11 satellites fulfilling their core purpose, government data shows. Of these four operational satellites, one (IRNSS-1B) has already exceeded its planned life of 10 years and could stop functioning anytime, while another (IRNSS-1F) has less than a year to complete its decade in service and has suffered partial equipment failure. NAVIC is India’s own version of America’s GPS, Russia’s GLONASS, China’s Beidou and Europe’s Galileo systems. According to ISRO, India’s NAVIC constellation is meant to have five or seven operational satellites. At present, the depleted and near-defunct fleet of NAVIC satellites requires urgent replacement, given that they serve India’s strategic forces and are meant to augment warfighting capabilities.

India’s depleted and near-defunct fleet of NAVIC satellites requires urgent replacement since they serve India’s strategic forces and play a major role in augmenting warfighting capabilities. The NAVIC constellation is meant to have five or seven operational satellites.

India’s desi-GPS NAVIC is near-defunct; satellites need urgent replacement

After the horrifying Air India plane crash last month in India's Ahmedabad, over 100 pilots of the aviation company went on medical leave for four days. The junior Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol said on Thursday (July 24) that 51 Commanders and 61 Flight Officers put leave requests after the Boeing 787-Dreamliner crashed, losing thrust mid-air and slamming into a hostel building two km from the airport boundary and killing 274 people. Mohol calls for managing the mental health of the pilots post the deadly incident. The minister said airlines were issued - in February 2023 - notices requiring them to ensure "quick and effective methods to assess mental health" during medical tests. He also said that the airlines and airports were instructed to introduce "standalone and customised training capsules" for flight crew and air traffic controllers with an aim to manage mental health issues.&nbsp;'We acknowledge...'&nbsp;Meanwhile, Air India confirmed receipt of four show-cause notices from the Director-General of Civil Aviation on Wednesday for breaching safety standards related to managing crew fatigue and training. "We acknowledge receipt of these notices...related to certain voluntary disclosures made over the last year. We will respond to the said notices..." an Air India spokesperson said on Thursday (July 24).&nbsp;Air India CEO says no mechanical issue found in probe report&nbsp;Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIM) released the investigation report on Saturday (July 12) regarding the crash of AI 171, in which 260 people were killed, including the medical students of the college where the plane crashed. The preliminary report, around 15 pages, was released a month after the deadly crash. The report has revealed details about all the important aspects of the crash.&nbsp;In a communication marked to select Air India employees, Wilson said, "All mandatory maintenance tasks had been completed. There was no issue with the quality of fuel and no abnormality with the take-off roll." He also pointed out the fact that both the pilots of the aircraft had cleared mandatory pre-flight breath analyser tests."We continue to perform necessary checks on all planes, as we will on any new ones that authorities may suggest," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the deadly Air India crash in Ahmedabad last month, more than 100 pilots went on leave citing medical issues. This has raised mental health concerns by the aviation ministry for pilots and crews. 

After the horrifying Air India plane crash last month in India's Ahmedabad, over 100 pilots of the aviation company went on medical leave for four days. The junior Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol said on Thursday (July 24) that 51 Commanders and 61 Flight Officers put leave requests after the Boeing 787-Dreamliner crashed, losing thrust mid-air and slamming into a hostel building two km from the airport boundary and killing 274 people. Mohol calls for managing the mental health of the pilots post the deadly incident. The minister said airlines were issued - in February 2023 - notices requiring them to ensure "quick and effective methods to assess mental health" during medical tests. He also said that the airlines and airports were instructed to introduce "standalone and customised training capsules" for flight crew and air traffic controllers with an aim to manage mental health issues. 'We acknowledge...' Meanwhile, Air India confirmed receipt of four show-cause notices from the Director-General of Civil Aviation on Wednesday for breaching safety standards related to managing crew fatigue and training. "We acknowledge receipt of these notices...related to certain voluntary disclosures made over the last year. We will respond to the said notices..." an Air India spokesperson said on Thursday (July 24). Air India CEO says no mechanical issue found in probe report Air India CEO Campbell Wilson said that the preliminary investigation report into the Ahmedabad crash found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIM) released the investigation report on Saturday (July 12) regarding the crash of AI 171, in which 260 people were killed, including the medical students of the college where the plane crashed. The preliminary report, around 15 pages, was released a month after the deadly crash. The report has revealed details about all the important aspects of the crash. In a communication marked to select Air India employees, Wilson said, "All mandatory maintenance tasks had been completed. There was no issue with the quality of fuel and no abnormality with the take-off roll." He also pointed out the fact that both the pilots of the aircraft had cleared mandatory pre-flight breath analyser tests. "We continue to perform necessary checks on all planes, as we will on any new ones that authorities may suggest," he added.

After the deadly Air India crash in Ahmedabad last month, more than 100 pilots went on leave citing medical issues. This has raised mental health concerns by the aviation ministry for pilots and crews.&nbsp;

Over 100 pilots on leave after Air India crash in Ahmedabad, aviation ministry raises 'mental health' concerns

The Indian state of Goa has passed legislation giving power to the government to declare any breed of Rottweiler and Pitbull dogs as ferocious, citing the rising cases of dog attacks on children. UYnder this legislation, government can impose three months of prison if someone violates rules that prohibit the breeding and domestication of such animals. The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, said that the move was brought keeping in mind the safety of people.&nbsp;The bill, which was passed on Wednesday (July 23), empowers the state government to declare any breed or class of animals as ferocious through a notification in the official gazette. When the bill will be notified, the breeding, keeping or importing of such animals in the state will be strictly prohibited, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed</a>&nbsp;The bill also makes it mandatory for the owners of such animals to report them to the Directorate of Animal Husbandry within 30 days of the bill's notification. They must sterilise the animal within 60 days of the notification. Violation of the bill would result in a minimum imprisonment of 15 days, which may extend up to three months, along with a fine of ₹50,000 and compulsory community service, says the bill, which will become law once the governor signs it.&nbsp;In some cases, courts cam replace the jail with community service. Moreover, the pet owner must also compensate the people killed by such animals. Claims can be filed within six months of the incident and must be resolved by the competent authority within three months. The Director of Animal Husbandry will have all the records of such animals. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Goa has passed a bill that will criminalise having Rottweiler and Pitbull dogs as pets. The owner can get three months in jail or a fine of ₹50,000 and compulsory community service. The decision citted rising cases of dog attacks on children. 

The Indian state of Goa has passed legislation giving power to the government to declare any breed of Rottweiler and Pitbull dogs as ferocious, citing the rising cases of dog attacks on children. UYnder this legislation, government can impose three months of prison if someone violates rules that prohibit the breeding and domestication of such animals. The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, said that the move was brought keeping in mind the safety of people. The bill, which was passed on Wednesday (July 23), empowers the state government to declare any breed or class of animals as ferocious through a notification in the official gazette. When the bill will be notified, the breeding, keeping or importing of such animals in the state will be strictly prohibited, news agency PTI reported. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed The bill also makes it mandatory for the owners of such animals to report them to the Directorate of Animal Husbandry within 30 days of the bill's notification. They must sterilise the animal within 60 days of the notification. Violation of the bill would result in a minimum imprisonment of 15 days, which may extend up to three months, along with a fine of ₹50,000 and compulsory community service, says the bill, which will become law once the governor signs it. In some cases, courts cam replace the jail with community service. Moreover, the pet owner must also compensate the people killed by such animals. Claims can be filed within six months of the incident and must be resolved by the competent authority within three months. The Director of Animal Husbandry will have all the records of such animals.

Goa has passed a bill that will criminalise having Rottweiler and Pitbull dogs as pets. The owner can get three months in jail or a fine of ₹50,000 and compulsory community service. The decision citted rising cases of dog attacks on children.&nbsp;

Goa to impose 3-month jail for owning this ferocious dog breed. Does your dog belong to that breed?

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday severely criticised the Karnataka High Court for its handling of the Renukaswamy murder case in which actor and prime accused Darshan Thoogudeepa was granted bail, and called it a “perverse exercise of judicial power”. The top court further vented its anger saying that a trial court judge could make such a mistake but it is not expected from a high court judge. It further questioned whether it is a common practice in the Karnataka High Court that bail orders are more like judgments of acquittal. The top court was hearing Karnataka government’s plea seeking cancellation of the bail granted to Darshan.

Actor Darshan is the prime accused in the case of kidnapping, torturing, and killing of 33-year-old Renukaswamy in June last year.&nbsp;<h2>‘It is, prima facie, a perverse exercise of judicial power’</h2>&nbsp;A bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan said on Thursday that they would not make the same mistake as the High Court. “We will not give any judgment for conviction or acquittal. We are a little serious because it is a case of murder and conspiracy,” the bench told counsel for actor Pavithra Gowda, the primary accused, while expressing its strong displeasure.“Don’t you think the High Court declared an order of acquittal,” the Supreme Court asked, upset over the language used by the High Court in its December 2024 bail order.“The manner in which the High Court dictated the order... very sorry to say. Does the High Court dictate the same kind of order in other cases too,” Justice Pardiwala asked“What is troubling is the reasoning given... especially saying ‘grounds of arrest were not furnished’ for a murder case.”“It is, prima facie, a perverse exercise of judicial power,” the apex court said.“A trial court judge making such a mistake is acceptable... but a high court judge!”&nbsp;<h2>SC questions state on why trial would be held on daily basis</h2>&nbsp;The Supreme Court also posed questions to the state on being told that the trial would be held on a daily basis. Justice Pardiwala asked why this case merited so much attention when other accused had been waiting their chance for years. The top court was later informed the trial would be completed in six months.&nbsp;Actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and 13 others are in prison charged with the murder of Renukaswamy, who was allegedly kidnapped, tortured, and murdered by the actor’s accomplices after he apparently sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda, a friend of Darshan.The police believe Darshan paid Rs 50 lakh to four men involved in the planning and execution of the gruesome crime.In April, there was public fury after the actor, told to attend every court hearing as part of his bail conditions, skipped appearance citing back pain and hours later was at a movie screening.There was another row earlier when photos from inside the jail showed Darshan and other accused lounging and smoking in lawn chairs in a garden. The actor was then transferred to another facility.

It was the second time in a week that the Supreme Court has rebuked the Karnataka High Court in the Renukaswamy murder case. Last week, the High Court was told that it had failed to exercise discretion in granting bail to actor and prime accused Darshan Thoogudeepa.

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday severely criticised the Karnataka High Court for its handling of the Renukaswamy murder case in which actor and prime accused Darshan Thoogudeepa was granted bail, and called it a “perverse exercise of judicial power”. The top court further vented its anger saying that a trial court judge could make such a mistake but it is not expected from a high court judge. It further questioned whether it is a common practice in the Karnataka High Court that bail orders are more like judgments of acquittal. The top court was hearing Karnataka government’s plea seeking cancellation of the bail granted to Darshan.

It was the second time in a week that the Supreme Court has rebuked the Karnataka High Court in the Renukaswamy murder case. Last week, the High Court was told that it had failed to exercise discretion in granting bail to actor and prime accused Darshan Thoogudeepa.

‘Perverse exercise of judicial power’: Supreme Court blasts Karnataka HC over actor Darshan’s bail

The RJD leader Tejashwi 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;Yadav also added," It means that the government is itself saying that they are fraudulently elected...so if there has to be a fraud, then we might think about boycotting it (elections)."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Patna | On Bihar SIR, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav says,&quot;...We (all parties in Mahagathbandhan) could talk about boycotting the elections. We have this option.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/uyn2a9DVy1">pic.twitter.com/uyn2a9DVy1</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1948290409513246890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) reacted to Yafav's remarks, alleging that he already had figured out his “defeat.” "Tejashwi Yadav has made a statement about boycotting elections, but he hasn't specified which election... He has probably figured out that there is a complete defeat for the RJD and alliance partners, or he is doing some politics. He is a serious man, and if he is saying this, it means he can see his defeat," BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy told ANI.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the &nbsp;Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan said, "Now he feels that he will lose the election. As long as there are no fake voters, how will they win the election? When the fraud was caught, they are saying they won't contest the election."&nbsp;Foreigners among 78 million voters in Bihar?&nbsp;Yadav previously dismissed the reports claiming the presence of foreign voters in Bihar's electoral rolls. He called such reports "mutra" (urine). While speaking at the Mahagathbandhan press conference, Yadav was reacting to inputs reportedly received by the Election Commission that fake voters from Bangladesh and Nepal were present in the state.&nbsp;"The commission says they got inputs or 'sources' (sutra) about this. These are not sources, they are 'mutra,'" Yadav said. Yadav also questioned the legitimacy of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleges serious flaws in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said that the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar might boycott the assembly elections over the Special Intensive Revision row. Meanwhile, the BJP has claimed that Yadav already figured out he is going to lose the polls. 

The RJD leader Tejashwi 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. Yadav also added," It means that the government is itself saying that they are fraudulently elected...so if there has to be a fraud, then we might think about boycotting it (elections)."

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said that the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar might boycott the assembly elections over the Special Intensive Revision row. Meanwhile, the BJP has claimed that Yadav already “figured out” he is going to lose the polls.&nbsp;

Boycott Bihar elections? Tejashwi Yadav's RJD might skip assembly polls, BJP says...

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while talking at a press conference in London with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, said that six British universities are all set to open campuses in India. The Indian PM said, "In the field of education, too, we are writing a new chapter together. Six universities in the UK are opening their campuses in India. Just last week, the University of Southampton inaugurated its campus in the city of Gurugram in India."&nbsp;India and the UK signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement in London on Thursday (July 24). The Union Minister of Commerce &amp; Industry, Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds were also present at the occasion.&nbsp;UK nationals killed in Air India crash&nbsp;The Indian PM further mentioned the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad last month, in which multiple British citizens were killed.&nbsp;"Among the people who died in the accident in Ahmedabad last month, there were many UK nationals as well. We express our condolences to their families. People of Indian origin who live in the UK act as a living bridge in our relations. They did not just bring curry from India but also creativity, commitment and character. Their contribution is not restricted to just the economy of the UK but is also reflected in the culture, sports and public service of the UK," PM Modi said in his speech.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed</a>&nbsp;

'Not just an economic agreement'&nbsp;Talking about the India-UK agreement, the Indian PM said that it is not just an economic agreement but also a plan for a shared prosperity.&nbsp;"On one side, Indian textile, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood and engineering goods will get better market access in the UK. New opportunities will emerge in the UK market for India's agricultural produce and processed food industry. This agreement will especially benefit Indian youth, farmers, fishermen and the MSME sector. On the other hand, for the people of India and industry, products made in the UK, like medical devices, will be available at reasonable and affordable prices," PM Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian PM Narendra Modi, while speaking in London, said that six British universities are going to open campuses in India like the Southampton did in Gurugram. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while talking at a press conference in London with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, said that six British universities are all set to open campuses in India. The Indian PM said, "In the field of education, too, we are writing a new chapter together. Six universities in the UK are opening their campuses in India. Just last week, the University of Southampton inaugurated its campus in the city of Gurugram in India." India and the UK signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement in London on Thursday (July 24). The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds were also present at the occasion. UK nationals killed in Air India crash The Indian PM further mentioned the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad last month, in which multiple British citizens were killed. "Among the people who died in the accident in Ahmedabad last month, there were many UK nationals as well. We express our condolences to their families. People of Indian origin who live in the UK act as a living bridge in our relations. They did not just bring curry from India but also creativity, commitment and character. Their contribution is not restricted to just the economy of the UK but is also reflected in the culture, sports and public service of the UK," PM Modi said in his speech. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-historic-uk-india-free-trade-pact-signed-starmer-hails-bilateral-relations-1753353860020/embed

Indian PM Narendra Modi, while speaking in London, said that six British universities are going to open campuses in India like the Southampton did in Gurugram.&nbsp;

After Southampton in Gurugram, 6 more UK universities to open in India: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described the signing of the India-UK free trade agreement as “a historic day in our relations.” Announcing the deal, PM Modi said that the two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement after the hard work of several years.&nbsp;"Today marks a historic day in our relations. I am delighted that after the hard work of several years, today our two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement," he said.&nbsp;PM Modi said the agreement is a plan for shared prosperity. He said that Indian exports, like textiles, footwear, gems, and jewelry, will get better access to the UK market. He said London will get easy market access for Indian agricultural products and processed food.&nbsp;PM Modi said that the agreement will benefit Indian's youth, farmers, fisherfolk, and the MSME sector.&nbsp;"This agreement is not just an economic agreement but also the plan for a shared prosperity. On one side, Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods will get better market access in the UK. New opportunities will emerge in the UK market for India's agricultural produce and processed food industry. This agreement will especially benefit Indian youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector," he further said at a joint press conference with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer.&nbsp;Elaborating further on the merits of the deal, PM Modi said that because of the deal, Indian people and industries will have better access to UK-made products, including medical devices, at reasonable and affordable prices.&nbsp;UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for both nations and will boost wages and raise the standards of living.&nbsp;"It is a deal that will bring huge benefits to both of our countries, boosting wages, raising living standards, and putting more money in the pockets of working people. It is good for jobs, it is good for business, cutting tariffs and making trade cheaper, quicker and easier," he said.&nbsp;India's commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, said that the&nbsp;landmark India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entails duty-free access for about 99% of Indian exports, unlocking nearly $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors. He wrote on X that the agreement is a big win for Indian farmers as it ensures duty-free exports on nearly 95% of agricultural products. "Fisherfolk gain from Zero Duty on 99% of marine exports, boosting their incomes," he said.&nbsp;"India’s talent in IT, services, and education will gain from easier access to the UK’s high-value markets. The three-year exemption from social security contributions in the UK as part of the Double Contribution Convention is a significant breakthrough for Indian workers and their employers. Chefs, yoga instructors, musicians &amp; business visitors will benefit, advancing our vision to be a global talent hub," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement as "a historic day in our relations." Announcing the deal, PM Modi said the two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement after the hard work of several years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described the signing of the India-UK free trade agreement as “a historic day in our relations.” Announcing the deal, PM Modi said that the two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement after the hard work of several years. "Today marks a historic day in our relations. I am delighted that after the hard work of several years, today our two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement," he said. PM Modi said the agreement is a plan for shared prosperity. He said that Indian exports, like textiles, footwear, gems, and jewelry, will get better access to the UK market. He said London will get easy market access for Indian agricultural products and processed food. PM Modi said that the agreement will benefit Indian's youth, farmers, fisherfolk, and the MSME sector. "This agreement is not just an economic agreement but also the plan for a shared prosperity. On one side, Indian textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods will get better market access in the UK. New opportunities will emerge in the UK market for India's agricultural produce and processed food industry. This agreement will especially benefit Indian youth, farmers, fishermen, and the MSME sector," he further said at a joint press conference with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer. Elaborating further on the merits of the deal, PM Modi said that because of the deal, Indian people and industries will have better access to UK-made products, including medical devices, at reasonable and affordable prices. UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for both nations and will boost wages and raise the standards of living. "It is a deal that will bring huge benefits to both of our countries, boosting wages, raising living standards, and putting more money in the pockets of working people. It is good for jobs, it is good for business, cutting tariffs and making trade cheaper, quicker and easier," he said. India's commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, said that the landmark India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entails duty-free access for about 99% of Indian exports, unlocking nearly $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors. He wrote on X that the agreement is a big win for Indian farmers as it ensures duty-free exports on nearly 95% of agricultural products. "Fisherfolk gain from Zero Duty on 99% of marine exports, boosting their incomes," he said. "India’s talent in IT, services, and education will gain from easier access to the UK’s high-value markets. The three-year exemption from social security contributions in the UK as part of the Double Contribution Convention is a significant breakthrough for Indian workers and their employers. Chefs, yoga instructors, musicians & business visitors will benefit, advancing our vision to be a global talent hub," he added.

India-UK trade deal: UK PM Keir Starmer said the agreement will be beneficial for the people of both the nations.

'Historic day in our relations': PM Modi announces India-UK free trade agreement

India and the United Kingdom signed a Free Trade Agreement on Thursday (Jul 24). This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his British counterpart Keir Starmer in London. The bilateral deal is aimed at boosting trade by $34 billion annually, creating over 2,200 jobs, the UK PM said. The agreement will also help lowering average tariffs on British products from 15 per cent to three per cent. The signing of the deal comes following bilateral talks between the two leaders.&nbsp;During a press briefing after the signing of the agreement, Starmer said, “Today is a historic day,” as he welcomed PM Modi. He added that the agreement will benefit both nations for business, cutting tariffs, making trade cheaper and easier.&nbsp;“Today marks a historic day in our relations. I am delighted that after the hard work of several years, today our two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement,” PM Modi said during the joint briefing. &nbsp;The FTA will provide better access for labour-intensive exports like textiles, leather, clothing, and footwear. While for the UK, it will lower the import costs for products like automobiles and whiskey.&nbsp;Ahead of the deal signing, Starmer said that the deal with India means jobs, investment, and growth in the UK. He added that the agreement will help in creating thousands of British jobs, and open new opportunities for businesses. He added that this will put money in the pockets of working people. “That’s our Plan for Change in action,” he said.&nbsp;After landing in London, PM Modi said, “This visit will go a long way in advancing the economic partnership between our nations. The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress.”&nbsp;(more details to follow) &nbsp;

India and the United Kingdom signed a Free Trade Agreement on Thursday (Jul 24). This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his British counterpart Keir Starmer in London.

India and the United Kingdom signed a Free Trade Agreement on Thursday (Jul 24). This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his British counterpart Keir Starmer in London. The bilateral deal is aimed at boosting trade by $34 billion annually, creating over 2,200 jobs, the UK PM said. The agreement will also help lowering average tariffs on British products from 15 per cent to three per cent. The signing of the deal comes following bilateral talks between the two leaders. During a press briefing after the signing of the agreement, Starmer said, “Today is a historic day,” as he welcomed PM Modi. He added that the agreement will benefit both nations for business, cutting tariffs, making trade cheaper and easier. “Today marks a historic day in our relations. I am delighted that after the hard work of several years, today our two nations have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement,” PM Modi said during the joint briefing. The FTA will provide better access for labour-intensive exports like textiles, leather, clothing, and footwear. While for the UK, it will lower the import costs for products like automobiles and whiskey. Ahead of the deal signing, Starmer said that the deal with India means jobs, investment, and growth in the UK. He added that the agreement will help in creating thousands of British jobs, and open new opportunities for businesses. He added that this will put money in the pockets of working people. “That’s our Plan for Change in action,” he said. After landing in London, PM Modi said, “This visit will go a long way in advancing the economic partnership between our nations. The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress.” (more details to follow)

India and the United Kingdom signed a Free Trade Agreement on Thursday (Jul 24). This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his British counterpart Keir Starmer in London.

PM Modi meets Starmer: India-UK sign landmark free trade deal in London

After the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a massive search operation at the premises of Anil Ambani's firms on Thursday, Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) released a statement clarifying that the recent actions have absolutely no impact on the business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power.&nbsp;The company further said in a statement that the media reports appear to pertain to allegations linked to transactions of Reliance Communications Limited (RCOM) or Reliance Home Finance Limited (RHFL), which are over 10 years old.&nbsp;The raid was conducted at 35 premises, 50 companies, and over 25 persons allegedly linked to the money laundering case against Reliance Anil Ambani Group (RAAGA) Companies with Yes Bank.<h3>No connection to RCOM or RHFL</h3>It has also been clarified in the press note that Reliance Power is a separate and independent listed entity, which has no business or financial connection to RCOM or RHFL.&nbsp;Currently, RCOM has been going through the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, for over 6 years. Whereas, RHFL has been fully resolved according to the judgment of the Supreme Court of India, the statement further read.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-raids-at-premises-of-anil-ambani-yes-bank-in-rs-3-000-crore-fraud-case-1753339608112">ED raids premises of Anil Ambani, Yes Bank in Rs 3,000 crore loan fraud case</a>&nbsp;According to a report by Indian news agency PTI, officials said over 35 premises across Mumbai and Delhi, involving 50 companies and about 25 individuals, are being searched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).&nbsp;ED sources indicated that they are investigating allegations of illegal loan diversion of approximately Rs 3,000 crore from Yes Bank between 2017 and 2019. The load was reportedly diverted to shell firms and other group entities. Investigators have also discovered proof indicating possible bribery of Yes Bank officials, including its promoter.

Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) have released a statement clarifying that ongoing actions will have no impact on the business activities of the firms.

After the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a massive search operation at the premises of Anil Ambani's firms on Thursday, Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) released a statement clarifying that the recent actions have absolutely no impact on the business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power. The company further said in a statement that the media reports appear to pertain to allegations linked to transactions of Reliance Communications Limited (RCOM) or Reliance Home Finance Limited (RHFL), which are over 10 years old. The raid was conducted at 35 premises, 50 companies, and over 25 persons allegedly linked to the money laundering case against Reliance Anil Ambani Group (RAAGA) Companies with Yes Bank. No connection to RCOM or RHFL It has also been clarified in the press note that Reliance Power is a separate and independent listed entity, which has no business or financial connection to RCOM or RHFL. Currently, RCOM has been going through the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, for over 6 years. Whereas, RHFL has been fully resolved according to the judgment of the Supreme Court of India, the statement further read. Also read: ED raids premises of Anil Ambani, Yes Bank in Rs 3,000 crore loan fraud case According to a report by Indian news agency PTI, officials said over 35 premises across Mumbai and Delhi, involving 50 companies and about 25 individuals, are being searched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). ED sources indicated that they are investigating allegations of illegal loan diversion of approximately Rs 3,000 crore from Yes Bank between 2017 and 2019. The load was reportedly diverted to shell firms and other group entities. Investigators have also discovered proof indicating possible bribery of Yes Bank officials, including its promoter.

Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) have released a statement clarifying that ongoing actions will have no impact on the business activities of the firms.

'Have no impact on business or stakeholders': Reliance Infrastructure, Reliance Power issue statements after ED raids

After China announced the construction of the world's largest hydropower dam in Tibetan territory on the Brahmaputra River (known as the Yarlung Zangbo River), it sparked concerns from India and Bangladesh. In response, Beijing has issued an explicit statement defending the dam project, calling it a clean energy development and a matter of national sovereignty.&nbsp;"To build the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is fully within China's sovereignty," the official statement said. "The project aims to speed up clean energy development, improve local people's lives, and proactively respond to climate change," the official added.&nbsp;The announcement has raised concern in downstream nations such as India and Bangladesh about potential ecological disruption and water flow control. However, China claims that the development is being done with a high sense of responsibility in handling cross-border rivers and that the project meets the highest national industrial standards.&nbsp;"The planning, design, and construction... strictly follow the highest national industrial standards. The project puts a lot of emphasis on all-round ecological conservation, stays away from multiple environmentally sensitive areas, and vows to preserve the original ecosystem to the largest extent possible," the statement further added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To build the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is fully within China’s sovereignty. The project aims to speed up clean energy development, improve local people’s life, and proactively respond to climate change. China acts with a high sense of… <a href="https://t.co/9myFqIsUHw">pic.twitter.com/9myFqIsUHw</a>&mdash; CHINA MFA Spokesperson 中国外交部发言人 (@MFA_China) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China/status/1947961982608691656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>What is India's stance?</h3>China maintained that the dam will not negatively impact downstream areas. Instead, it ensured that the hydropower facility would support disaster mitigation efforts along the river. Concluding the statement, China said that it is collaborating with downstream nations with necessary communication on the project in response to enhanced cooperation for the benefit of all people along the river basin.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has described the dam as a "ticking water bomb" and a serious threat to existence. “Setting aside the military threat from China, it seems to me that this is a far bigger issue than anything else. It is going to cause an existential threat to our tribes and our livelihoods. It is quite serious because China could even use this as a sort of 'water bomb',” Indian news agency PTI quoted Khandu as saying.&nbsp;However, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma downplayed any immediate threat from the project and said that the Brahmaputra is not completely dependent on the Yarlung Zangbo for its flow. "I am not immediately worried because the Brahmaputra is a mighty river, and it is not dependent on a single source of water," Sarma said.&nbsp;The announcement was made by Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Saturday (July 19, 2025) for the construction of the dam in the lower areas of the Brahmaputra River, locally known as Yarlung Zangbo, at Nyingchi City, situated close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the vicinity of Arunachal Pradesh.

The announcement of the development of a dam on the Brahmaputra River has raised serious concerns for India and Bangladesh. However, China claimed that the project aims to speed up clean energy development and improve local people's lives.

After China announced the construction of the world's largest hydropower dam in Tibetan territory on the Brahmaputra River (known as the Yarlung Zangbo River), it sparked concerns from India and Bangladesh. In response, Beijing has issued an explicit statement defending the dam project, calling it a clean energy development and a matter of national sovereignty. "To build the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is fully within China's sovereignty," the official statement said. "The project aims to speed up clean energy development, improve local people's lives, and proactively respond to climate change," the official added. The announcement has raised concern in downstream nations such as India and Bangladesh about potential ecological disruption and water flow control. However, China claims that the development is being done with a high sense of responsibility in handling cross-border rivers and that the project meets the highest national industrial standards. "The planning, design, and construction... strictly follow the highest national industrial standards. The project puts a lot of emphasis on all-round ecological conservation, stays away from multiple environmentally sensitive areas, and vows to preserve the original ecosystem to the largest extent possible," the statement further added.

The announcement of the development of a dam on the Brahmaputra River has raised serious concerns for India and Bangladesh. However, China claimed that the project aims to speed up clean energy development and improve local people's lives.

China defends construction of world's largest hydropower dam on Brahmaputra river, Claims no downstream damage

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Jul 24) stayed the Bombay High Court’s ruling acquitting all 12 accused in the 7/11 Mumbai train blasts case of 2006. The top court issued the order after Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta told the bench of Justice MM Sundresh and Justice NK Singh that the verdict could adversely impact trials under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).&nbsp;The top court noted that it was not staying the release of the 12 accused, who have already walked free earlier this week. The court also sent notices to all accused, seeking their replies on the state’s appeal.&nbsp;“We are inclined to hold that the impugned judgment shall not be treated as a precedent. Therefore, there will be a stay of the impugned judgment,” the court said in its brief order.&nbsp;Appearing for the Maharashtra government, Mehta urged that the court stay the effect of the high court verdict, not on the ground of opposing the release of the acquitted, but because certain observations by the high court may affect other pending trials of MCOCA. The bench accepted the contention, saying that the high court verdict shall not carry precedential value until further orders.&nbsp;This comes as the Maharashtra government filed an appeal, challenging the July 21 judgement by the Bombay High Court. The order overturned the convictions of 12 men by a MCOCA special court in 2015. Five of the accused were sentenced death penalty, while others were awarded life imprisonment.&nbsp;The high court had ruled that the prosecution “utterly failed to establish the offence beyond reasonable doubt.” It added that the investigation had lapses in procedures, unreliable evidence, and violated of the constitutional rights of the accused.&nbsp;One of the biggest terror attacks in Indian history, 188 people were killed while 829 were injured after seven blasts in Mumbai’s crowded local trains. The bombs were planted in pressure cookers and exploded within six minutes. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) determined that the attacks were carried out by the former members of the banned Students’ Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) with the aid of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The Supreme Court of India stayed the ruling given Bombay High Court, which acquitted all 12 accused of 2006 Mumbai train blasts. The order noted that it was not staying the release of acquitted.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Jul 24) stayed the Bombay High Court’s ruling acquitting all 12 accused in the 7/11 Mumbai train blasts case of 2006. The top court issued the order after Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta told the bench of Justice MM Sundresh and Justice NK Singh that the verdict could adversely impact trials under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The top court noted that it was not staying the release of the 12 accused, who have already walked free earlier this week. The court also sent notices to all accused, seeking their replies on the state’s appeal. “We are inclined to hold that the impugned judgment shall not be treated as a precedent. Therefore, there will be a stay of the impugned judgment,” the court said in its brief order. Appearing for the Maharashtra government, Mehta urged that the court stay the effect of the high court verdict, not on the ground of opposing the release of the acquitted, but because certain observations by the high court may affect other pending trials of MCOCA. The bench accepted the contention, saying that the high court verdict shall not carry precedential value until further orders. This comes as the Maharashtra government filed an appeal, challenging the July 21 judgement by the Bombay High Court. The order overturned the convictions of 12 men by a MCOCA special court in 2015. Five of the accused were sentenced death penalty, while others were awarded life imprisonment. The high court had ruled that the prosecution “utterly failed to establish the offence beyond reasonable doubt.” It added that the investigation had lapses in procedures, unreliable evidence, and violated of the constitutional rights of the accused. One of the biggest terror attacks in Indian history, 188 people were killed while 829 were injured after seven blasts in Mumbai’s crowded local trains. The bombs were planted in pressure cookers and exploded within six minutes. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) determined that the attacks were carried out by the former members of the banned Students’ Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) with the aid of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The Supreme Court of India stayed the ruling given Bombay High Court, which acquitted all 12 accused of 2006 Mumbai train blasts. The order noted that it was not staying the release of acquitted.

Indian Supreme Court stays Bombay HC ruling to acquit 2006 Mumbai train blasts accused

VS Achuthanandan, one of the tallest leaders of India's Communist movement, got a state funeral on Wednesday (July 23), with tens of thousands lining up in Kerala to bid final goodbye to their leader as a bus carrying his body snaked through the roads from the sothern state's capital Thiruvananthapuram to his final resting place in his hometown in Alapphuzha. In death, 'Comrade' Achuthanandan evoked the same sentiment of camaraderie and solidarity among the ordinary workers of Communist Party of India - Marxist (CPI-M), of which he was a founding member. Achuthandan, who died at the age of 101 on July 21, was the last surviving member of the group of 32 that walked out of the Communist Party of India (CPI) over ideological differences and founded the CPI-M. His demise is indeed the end of an era. Here is an analysis of his political life:<h2>Achuthanandan's death: A leader dedicated to social justice, even at the expense of losing positions in the party</h2>It would not be an exaggeration to say that many ordinary workers distanced themselves from CPI-M as they felt the party strayed from its founding principles. Achuthanandan, on the other hand, stayed in the party throughout his life, while acting as a voice of correction and trying to change the organisation from within. That stance was informed by his life of poverty and personal hardships.<h2>Achuthandan's childhood hardships informed his ideology</h2>

Born on 20 October 1923 in Punnapra, Alappuzha in the erstwhile princely state of Travancore, Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan's formative years were marked by poverty, socio-political unrest in his land, and exposure to revolutionary ideas.&nbsp;He lost his mother, Accamma, at the age of four, and father Sankaran, at the age of 11. Having worked as a tailor and in the coir factory operator, Achuthanandan had a first-hand experience of the travails of the working classes of Kerala.Having dropped out of school after completing the 7th standard, the Communist ideologies he imbibed from the legendary leader P Krishna Pillai became his main teachings in life.

<h2>Achutanandan the leader was shaped through his blood and sweat: The Punnapra-Vayalar uprising and later struggles</h2>He formally entered politics in 1930s at a very young age, with trade union activities, joining the State Congress in 1938. Under the mentorship of Krishna Pillai, he joined CPI in 1940.The most important of Achuthanan's political fights started even before India got independence: the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising of 1946. This workers’ revolt against the policies of Travancore Divan CP Ramaswamy Iyer, which took place before the formation of Kerala in 1956, is not only a formative event for Achuthanandan, but for the entire state. The workers and farmers wanted a responsible government, better wages and labour conditions. The police responded with brutality, with Achuthandan jailed, tortured, and a policeman even piercing his foot with a bionet. Hundreds of people died. Achuthandann, once left for dead, went into hiding and led the movement.<h2>Achuthandandan, a founder of India's CPI-M, &nbsp;was also its corrective force</h2>

In 1962, at the height of the India-China war, Achuthandan defied CPI and organised blood donation drives for Indian soldiers. He was arrested and removed from the party’s state secretariat. Two years later, he became one of the 32 founding members of the CPI(M) after splitting from the CPI over ideological differences.Between 1965 and 2016, Achuthanandan contested Kerala Assembly elections 10 times, winning seven times and losing thrice.He was the CPI (M) state secretary, a powerful position in the party, in 1980–1992, during which he strengthened the party’s base in Kerala. In 1985, Achuthanandan was elected to the CPI(M) Politburo, the party's national decision-making body, serving until 2009. A constant presence in Kerala's politics, Achudanandan served as leader of Opposition in the 1990s–2000s for a record 15 years across three terms. In this period, he was a vocal force in movements for social and environmental justice, and women's empowerment.

<h2>Achuthandan: The leader who ‘cut down’ crops and rivals</h2>&nbsp;

His major movements include the 1990s anti-reclamation stir with the Kerala State Karshaka Thozhilali Union (KSKTU), highlighting paddy field conversion. He led parties that destroyed crops in what became known as 'vetti nirathal', literally cutting down. His methods were not liked by many leaders within the party, leading to factionalism. In 1996, he suffered a surprising defeat in the Assembly election from Mararikulam.

<h2>Achuthandan was a chief minister in waiting for many years</h2>A leader who deserved to be Kerala's chief minister several times, Achuthanandan served the top post of the state only once, that too at the fag end of his political career. He served the post in 2006–2011 at the age of 82, becoming the oldest person to assume the CM office in the state. It is considered that even as the chief minister, Achutanandan essentially acted as the 'Opposition leader', directly fighting several vested interests that were plundering the state's wealth and damaging its environment. His actions in this period included personally leading a demolition drive in the Munnar hill station to reclaim illegally occupied government land from resort owners and multinational corporations. He also led a demolition drive in Kochi MG Road to reclaim public land. Achuthanandan also fought the lottery mafia in the state. While he was seen as 'old-world' by his critics, Achuthanandan is also credited with several industrial and technological initiatives, such as promoting free and open-source software in Kerala and integrating it into the public education system. When he was CM, Kerala witnessed IT export growth, surpassing the national average. He also started several techno parks in the state, making it one of the key players in software service exports.<h2>Achuthandan was dealt a raw deal by his own party</h2>Achutanandan always stood by his strong views on Communist and Marxist principles, which were the foundations of his political activism. At the height of power as a party organiser and chief minister, he cut down several of his rivals. His actions eventually contributed to factionalism in the party, with the other major group led by the current chief minister, Pinarayi Vijayan. In 2009, Achuthanandan was removed from the CPI (M) Politbureau in the wake of several differences with Vijayan.His close staff members were also ousted by the Politburo.In 2015, he walked out of the CPI(M) State conference in Alappuzha in protest against criticism from party delegates, returning to his ancestral home. Though he won from the Malampuzha constituency in the Assembly elections in 2016, Achuthanandan was not given the chief minister's post, citing, among other things, his advanced age. Eventually, Vijayan became the chief minister, and Achudanandan was appointed the chairman of the Kerala Administrative Reforms Commission, which his supporters saw as a demotion and sidelining.In 2019, Achuthandan suffered a stroke, limiting public appearances, and in 2021, he stepped down as a legislator at the age 97. Achuthanandan holds the record for the eldest member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that many ordinary workers distanced themselves from CPI-M as they felt the party strayed from its founding principles. Achuthanandan, on the other hand, stayed in the party throughout his life

VS Achuthanandan, one of the tallest leaders of India's Communist movement, got a state funeral on Wednesday (July 23), with tens of thousands lining up in Kerala to bid final goodbye to their leader as a bus carrying his body snaked through the roads from the sothern state's capital Thiruvananthapuram to his final resting place in his hometown in Alapphuzha. In death, 'Comrade' Achuthanandan evoked the same sentiment of camaraderie and solidarity among the ordinary workers of Communist Party of India - Marxist (CPI-M), of which he was a founding member. Achuthandan, who died at the age of 101 on July 21, was the last surviving member of the group of 32 that walked out of the Communist Party of India (CPI) over ideological differences and founded the CPI-M. His demise is indeed the end of an era. Here is an analysis of his political life: Achuthanandan's death: A leader dedicated to social justice, even at the expense of losing positions in the party It would not be an exaggeration to say that many ordinary workers distanced themselves from CPI-M as they felt the party strayed from its founding principles. Achuthanandan, on the other hand, stayed in the party throughout his life, while acting as a voice of correction and trying to change the organisation from within. That stance was informed by his life of poverty and personal hardships. Achuthandan's childhood hardships informed his ideology

It would not be an exaggeration to say that many ordinary workers distanced themselves from CPI-M as they felt the party strayed from its founding principles. Achuthanandan, on the other hand, stayed in the party throughout his life

VS Achuthanandan gets final farewell: Why Kerala leader's death at 101 is end of an era for India's Communist movement

Family of Priyadarshani Mattoo met Delhi Minister of Home Department Ashish Sood on Wednesday (July 24). The meeting came after Delhi High Court directed Sentence Review Board (SRB) to reconsider the premature release of convict Santosh Kumar Singh, who has been charged with rape and murder of the 25-year-old law student in 1996. They urged Sood to reject the Singh's release in order to uphold justice.&nbsp;The horrific 1996, was orchestrated by Singh, the son of an IPS officer, who was stalking Mattoo, his junior in college. The incident took place after Mattoo and her father filed a complaint with the police. He had been relentlessly pursuing her since and after repeated such encounters, led her to the police. Students and activists have been fighting for justice against the heinous crime. In a letter, her brother Hemant Mattoo wrote to the SRB, which mentioned, “She lodged multiple complaints: on February 25, 1995 when she was stalked and forced to stop her car; on August 16, 1995 when he followed her home and tried to break into her house; and on November 6, 1995, when he physically assaulted her at the college campus. She was compelled to seek help from police repeatedly, and each time, the convict gave undertakings that he would stop harassing her."&nbsp;“When even after giving the undertaking, he did not stop, she and her father approached the Commissioner of Police for protection. Santosh Kumar Singh while seeking revenge even filed malicious complaints with the university resulting in her results being withheld. These facts underline that the Santosh Kumar Singh displayed a dangerous pattern of obsessive, violent behaviour that eventually led to the most extreme violation—a crime committed not in a moment of passion but with premeditated malice. His past conduct outside prison cannot be ignored when evaluating his so-called ‘good conduct’ within its walls,” it added.

In 1999, Singh was acquitted, giving him the benefit of doubt. Later in February 2000, the CBI took the case to the Delhi High Court, which denied priority to the case. 'Justice for Priyadarshani' a nationwide uproar, which led the Delhi High Court to begin trials and the killer was ultimately awarded the death penalty. But in 2010, the Supreme Court turned the death sentence to life imprisonment.

Priyadarshani Mattoo's family meets Delhi Home Minister, urging him to reject accused Santosh Kumar Singh's premature release. 

Family of Priyadarshani Mattoo met Delhi Minister of Home Department Ashish Sood on Wednesday (July 24). The meeting came after Delhi High Court directed Sentence Review Board (SRB) to reconsider the premature release of convict Santosh Kumar Singh, who has been charged with rape and murder of the 25-year-old law student in 1996. They urged Sood to reject the Singh's release in order to uphold justice. The horrific 1996, was orchestrated by Singh, the son of an IPS officer, who was stalking Mattoo, his junior in college. The incident took place after Mattoo and her father filed a complaint with the police. He had been relentlessly pursuing her since and after repeated such encounters, led her to the police. Students and activists have been fighting for justice against the heinous crime. In a letter, her brother Hemant Mattoo wrote to the SRB, which mentioned, “She lodged multiple complaints: on February 25, 1995 when she was stalked and forced to stop her car; on August 16, 1995 when he followed her home and tried to break into her house; and on November 6, 1995, when he physically assaulted her at the college campus. She was compelled to seek help from police repeatedly, and each time, the convict gave undertakings that he would stop harassing her." “When even after giving the undertaking, he did not stop, she and her father approached the Commissioner of Police for protection. Santosh Kumar Singh while seeking revenge even filed malicious complaints with the university resulting in her results being withheld. These facts underline that the Santosh Kumar Singh displayed a dangerous pattern of obsessive, violent behaviour that eventually led to the most extreme violation—a crime committed not in a moment of passion but with premeditated malice. His past conduct outside prison cannot be ignored when evaluating his so-called ‘good conduct’ within its walls,” it added.

Priyadarshani Mattoo's family meets Delhi Home Minister, urging him to reject accused Santosh Kumar Singh's premature release.&nbsp;

Priyadarshani Mattoo's family urges Delhi Home Minister to reject killer's premature release

In the latest incident of racism in Australia, a Hindu temple in Boronia, Melbourne was defaced with racist graffiti igniting condemnation from various corners. Miscreants sprayed the wall of Shree Swaminarayan Temple on Wadhurst Drive with red paint and wrote hateful slurs demanding, "Go Home Brown C**t".&nbsp;The incident at the Swaminarayan Temple reportedly happened on July 21, when two Asian-run restaurants near the temple were also defaced with same message written on the walls, according to the local media house The Australia Today.&nbsp;Makrand Bhagwat, President of the Hindu Council of Australia issued a statement in this regard saying, "Seeing it (temple) vandalised with hateful words was heartbreaking for volunteers and worshippers alike."&nbsp;"Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity...It's where we come together to celebrate our faith and heritage," Bhagwat further said.&nbsp;The Victoria police which is investigating the case has said that prima facie all four incidents look interlinked. It also condemned the act and said, "There is absolutely no place at all in our society for hate-based and racist behaviour."&nbsp;Meanwhile, Jacinta Allan, premier of Victoria' condemning the incident said the Minister for Multicultural Affairs will visit the Shree Swaminarayan Temple to take stock of the matter and talk to the community and offer any support if required.&nbsp;"No community should ever have to endure something like this, but in speaking out, you've shown an enormous amount of strength and dignity. As Premier, I want you to know how much your contribution, your culture, and your faith mean to me, and to the future we're building together in this state," said Allan in response to the temple being defaced.&nbsp;The incident comes after Charanpreet Singh, 23, was brutally attacked in a reportedly racist assault over parking dispute. &nbsp;According to 9News, Singh after being told to "f--- off, Indian" was violently attacked and after becoming unconscious by the beating was left on the street to die.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the second time in a week, there has been a racist attack in Australia on the Indian community. This time the Shree Swaminarayan Temple was defaced with hate graffiti by unknown miscreants.

In the latest incident of racism in Australia, a Hindu temple in Boronia, Melbourne was defaced with racist graffiti igniting condemnation from various corners. Miscreants sprayed the wall of Shree Swaminarayan Temple on Wadhurst Drive with red paint and wrote hateful slurs demanding, "Go Home Brown C**t". The incident at the Swaminarayan Temple reportedly happened on July 21, when two Asian-run restaurants near the temple were also defaced with same message written on the walls, according to the local media house The Australia Today. Makrand Bhagwat, President of the Hindu Council of Australia issued a statement in this regard saying, "Seeing it (temple) vandalised with hateful words was heartbreaking for volunteers and worshippers alike." "Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity...It's where we come together to celebrate our faith and heritage," Bhagwat further said. The Victoria police which is investigating the case has said that prima facie all four incidents look interlinked. It also condemned the act and said, "There is absolutely no place at all in our society for hate-based and racist behaviour." Meanwhile, Jacinta Allan, premier of Victoria' condemning the incident said the Minister for Multicultural Affairs will visit the Shree Swaminarayan Temple to take stock of the matter and talk to the community and offer any support if required. "No community should ever have to endure something like this, but in speaking out, you've shown an enormous amount of strength and dignity. As Premier, I want you to know how much your contribution, your culture, and your faith mean to me, and to the future we're building together in this state," said Allan in response to the temple being defaced. The incident comes after Charanpreet Singh, 23, was brutally attacked in a reportedly racist assault over parking dispute. According to 9News, Singh after being told to "f--- off, Indian" was violently attacked and after becoming unconscious by the beating was left on the street to die.

For the second time in a week, there has been a racist attack in Australia on the Indian community. This time the Shree Swaminarayan Temple was defaced with hate graffiti by unknown miscreants.

Hindu temple in Australia's Melbourne defaced in racist attack with graffiti, probe underway

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted simultaneous raids at premises linked to Anil Ambani's Reliance Group (RAAGA Companies) in connection with a money laundering investigation related to the Yes Bank loan fraud case.&nbsp;According to a report by Indian news agency PTI, officials said over 35 premises across Mumbai and Delhi, involving 50 companies and about 25 individuals, are being searched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).&nbsp;ED sources indicated that they are investigating allegations of illegal loan diversion of approximately Rs 3,000 crore from Yes Bank between 2017 and 2019. The load was reportedly diverted to shell firms and other group entities. Investigators have also discovered proof indicating possible bribery of Yes Bank officials, including its promoter.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-the-fraud-case-against-economic-offender-monika-kapoor-extradited-to-india-after-25-years-1752149876971">What is the fraud case against economic offender Monika Kapoor, extradited to India after 25 years</a><h3>Why is the ED investigating Anil Ambani?</h3>The investigative agency highlighted serious lapses in the approval process of the Yes Bank to Reliance Anil Ambani Group Companies, which also includes backdated credit documents. It also found banks giving loans to organisations or firms with weak financials and common directors, and the absence of due diligence. ED has also noted violations of loan terms, evergreening of accounts, and instances showing disbursal on the same day as or before loan approvals, according to a report by ET.&nbsp;The ED stated that more than 50 companies and 25 individuals are under scrutiny. Meanwhile, SEBI has also submitted findings in connection with the Reliance Home Finance Ltd. (RHFL), showing corporate loan booking more than doubled within a year, which raises serious concerns about irregularities and process violations.<h3>Other allegations against Anil Ambani’s companies?</h3>The State Bank of India (SBI) declared Anil Ambani’s company Reliance Communications (RCom) and Anil Ambani himself as “fraudulent” a few years ago. SBI alleges RCom misused loans worth Rs 31,580 crore after taking them from the bank. Out of this amount, around Rs 13,667 crore was used to repay loans of other companies, while Rs 12,692 crore was transferred to other companies within the Reliance Group, according to a report in Dainik Bhaskar.&nbsp;SBI also said that it is in the process of filing a complaint with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the matter. Additionally, personal insolvency proceedings against Anil Ambani are currently underway at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Mumbai.<h3>Reliance responds</h3>Meanwhile, Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) released a statement clarifying that the recent actions have absolutely no impact on the business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power.<h3>Frequently asked questions:</h3>Question 1: Why has ED taken action against Anil Ambani's firms?Answer:The case is related to loans worth around Rs 3,000 crore disbursed by Yes Bank to companies linked to Anil Ambani’s Reliance Group between 2017 and 2019.&nbsp;Question 2: What else was discovered in the ED investigation?Answer:The ED claims this was a “well-thought-out and planned” scheme aimed at defrauding banks, shareholders, investors, and other public institutions by providing misleading information. The investigation uncovered several irregularities, such as loans given to unverified companies, the use of the same director and address across multiple firms, and a lack of loan documentation. It also discovered transfer of funds to shell companies and the issuing of new loans to repay old ones (loan evergreen strategy)&nbsp;Question 3: What role is the CBI playing in this case?Answer:The actions of the ED are based on two FIRs filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which alleged large-scale financial irregularities. Additionally, information from agencies like SEBI, the National Housing Bank, Bank of Baroda, and the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) also contributed to advancing the investigation.&nbsp;Question 4: What impact has the raid had on Anil Ambani’s companies?Answer:After the reports of the raids came to light, shares of Anil Ambani’s two key firms, Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power, fell by up to 5 percent.

The ED conducted a raid at premises linked to Anil Ambani's Reliance Group (RAAGA Companies) in connection with a money laundering case of Rs 3,000 crore tied to the Yes Bank loan fraud case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted simultaneous raids at premises linked to Anil Ambani's Reliance Group (RAAGA Companies) in connection with a money laundering investigation related to the Yes Bank loan fraud case. According to a report by Indian news agency PTI, officials said over 35 premises across Mumbai and Delhi, involving 50 companies and about 25 individuals, are being searched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). ED sources indicated that they are investigating allegations of illegal loan diversion of approximately Rs 3,000 crore from Yes Bank between 2017 and 2019. The load was reportedly diverted to shell firms and other group entities. Investigators have also discovered proof indicating possible bribery of Yes Bank officials, including its promoter. Also read: What is the fraud case against economic offender Monika Kapoor, extradited to India after 25 years Why is the ED investigating Anil Ambani? The investigative agency highlighted serious lapses in the approval process of the Yes Bank to Reliance Anil Ambani Group Companies, which also includes backdated credit documents. It also found banks giving loans to organisations or firms with weak financials and common directors, and the absence of due diligence. ED has also noted violations of loan terms, evergreening of accounts, and instances showing disbursal on the same day as or before loan approvals, according to a report by ET. The ED stated that more than 50 companies and 25 individuals are under scrutiny. Meanwhile, SEBI has also submitted findings in connection with the Reliance Home Finance Ltd. (RHFL), showing corporate loan booking more than doubled within a year, which raises serious concerns about irregularities and process violations. Other allegations against Anil Ambani’s companies? The State Bank of India (SBI) declared Anil Ambani’s company Reliance Communications (RCom) and Anil Ambani himself as “fraudulent” a few years ago. SBI alleges RCom misused loans worth Rs 31,580 crore after taking them from the bank. Out of this amount, around Rs 13,667 crore was used to repay loans of other companies, while Rs 12,692 crore was transferred to other companies within the Reliance Group, according to a report in Dainik Bhaskar. SBI also said that it is in the process of filing a complaint with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the matter. Additionally, personal insolvency proceedings against Anil Ambani are currently underway at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Mumbai. Reliance responds Meanwhile, Reliance Infrastructure Limited (Reliance Infrastructure) and Reliance Power Limited (Reliance Power) released a statement clarifying that the recent actions have absolutely no impact on the business operations, financial performance, shareholders, employees, or any other stakeholders of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power. Frequently asked questions: Question 1: Why has ED taken action against Anil Ambani's firms? Answer: The case is related to loans worth around Rs 3,000 crore disbursed by Yes Bank to companies linked to Anil Ambani’s Reliance Group between 2017 and 2019. Question 2: What else was discovered in the ED investigation? Answer: The ED claims this was a “well-thought-out and planned” scheme aimed at defrauding banks, shareholders, investors, and other public institutions by providing misleading information. The investigation uncovered several irregularities, such as loans given to unverified companies, the use of the same director and address across multiple firms, and a lack of loan documentation. It also discovered transfer of funds to shell companies and the issuing of new loans to repay old ones (loan evergreen strategy) Question 3: What role is the CBI playing in this case? Answer: The actions of the ED are based on two FIRs filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which alleged large-scale financial irregularities. Additionally, information from agencies like SEBI, the National Housing Bank, Bank of Baroda, and the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) also contributed to advancing the investigation. Question 4: What impact has the raid had on Anil Ambani’s companies? Answer: After the reports of the raids came to light, shares of Anil Ambani’s two key firms, Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power, fell by up to 5 percent.

The ED conducted a raid at premises linked to Anil Ambani's Reliance Group (RAAGA Companies) in connection with a money laundering case of Rs 3,000 crore tied to the Yes Bank loan fraud case.

ED raids premises of Anil Ambani, Yes Bank in Rs 3,000 crore loan fraud case

Ahead of the state visit of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, scheduled for July 25-26, a former minister praised New Delhi for being a prompt responder during the time of need. PM Modi is expected to visit the country a year after the diplomatic tensions with the Maldives. The former foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said that India was always the first responder whenever his country sought help. The minister said Indians have "big hearts" as, despite the tensions between the two nations, India continued with its aid to the Maldives, which showed maturity and generosity.&nbsp;“The relationship between the Maldives and India has always demonstrated that India is the first responder. Whenever we dial the international line, India responds first. It is for many reasons. First and foremost, because Indian people have a big heart and they are always ready to assist the Maldives in the neighbourhood, they are most generous," Shahid said in his statement.&nbsp;The minister said that India decided to keep the people-to-people relationship even after the high-voltage drama erupted after objectionable remarks by a few ex-ministers of the Maldives on the Indian PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;“…India is so close to the Maldives geographically. Whenever anything of urgency and distress happens in the Maldives, India has never let us down…the increase in aid by the Indian government shows the generosity and maturity," the minister added. Shahid said that it is important for Maldives to respect the friendship and do not use it for its political benefits.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lesotho-security-chief-warns-of-insurrection-amid-rising-militancy-fears-wion-1753336759118/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/lesotho-security-chief-warns-of-insurrection-amid-rising-militancy-fears-wion-1753336759118/embed</a>&nbsp;He calls the political leaders of the country to not treat India as a “punching bag for political convenience.” He said that the ground reality hits Maldives quickly, easily, and “that is what we are seeing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Shahid also expressed grief about a dip in the tourism in the Maldives due to tensions with India. “There is a huge market just next door to us. It is only natural that we tap into the economic boom that is taking place in India. It was unfortunate that there was a dip in Indian tourism around arrivals in the Maldives because of the diplomatic tensions. But I think the PM’s visit this time will set everything right," the minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former foreign minister of the Maldives hailed India ahead of the state visit by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 25-26. Abdulla Shahid said in his public statement that New Delhi is always the first responder whenever Maldives dials for international help.  

Ahead of the state visit of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, scheduled for July 25-26, a former minister praised New Delhi for being a prompt responder during the time of need. PM Modi is expected to visit the country a year after the diplomatic tensions with the Maldives. The former foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said that India was always the first responder whenever his country sought help. The minister said Indians have "big hearts" as, despite the tensions between the two nations, India continued with its aid to the Maldives, which showed maturity and generosity. “The relationship between the Maldives and India has always demonstrated that India is the first responder. Whenever we dial the international line, India responds first. It is for many reasons. First and foremost, because Indian people have a big heart and they are always ready to assist the Maldives in the neighbourhood, they are most generous," Shahid said in his statement. The minister said that India decided to keep the people-to-people relationship even after the high-voltage drama erupted after objectionable remarks by a few ex-ministers of the Maldives on the Indian PM. “…India is so close to the Maldives geographically. Whenever anything of urgency and distress happens in the Maldives, India has never let us down…the increase in aid by the Indian government shows the generosity and maturity," the minister added. Shahid said that it is important for Maldives to respect the friendship and do not use it for its political benefits. https://www.wionews.com/videos/lesotho-security-chief-warns-of-insurrection-amid-rising-militancy-fears-wion-1753336759118/embed He calls the political leaders of the country to not treat India as a “punching bag for political convenience.” He said that the ground reality hits Maldives quickly, easily, and “that is what we are seeing.” Shahid also expressed grief about a dip in the tourism in the Maldives due to tensions with India. “There is a huge market just next door to us. It is only natural that we tap into the economic boom that is taking place in India. It was unfortunate that there was a dip in Indian tourism around arrivals in the Maldives because of the diplomatic tensions. But I think the PM’s visit this time will set everything right," the minister said.

Former foreign minister of the Maldives hailed India ahead of the state visit by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 25-26. Abdulla Shahid said in his public statement that New Delhi is always the first responder whenever Maldives dials for international help. &nbsp;

Ex Maldives minister praises India ahead of PM Modi's first visit after diplomatic tensions, says 'Whenever we dial...'

Following heavy rains in Delhi on Wednesday (Jul 23) morning, several videos have gone viral on social media showing people swimming and boating in the waterlogged streets. The commuters were faced with traffic disruptions in several areas of the national capital as many areas experienced waterlogging. Opposition leaders were quick to take an aim at the ruling BJP, raising questions on their management of the current situation.&nbsp;“BJP’s false claims have failed,” AAP wrote, while sharing a video of a woman using a children’s inflatable bathtub as a boat in Patparganj in East Delhi. “The local people are now inviting the BJP MLA to sail a boat in this waterlogging as well,” it added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">📍 पटपड़गंज, दिल्ली दिल्ली में आज सुबह हुई बारिश ने पटपड़गंज में सड़कों पर नाव चलवा दी है। BJP के फ़र्जी दावे फेल होने पर स्थानीय जनता अब BJP के विधायक को भी इस जलभराव में नाव चलाने के लिए आमंत्रित कर रही है। <a href="https://t.co/13q3QFjEwL">pic.twitter.com/13q3QFjEwL</a>&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1947881473383792780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Another video shared by former chief minister Atishi showed knee-deep water in a school classroom as children sat huddled on benches to keep themselves dry.&nbsp;“Many congratulations to Chief Minister Gupta Rekha for starting water sports in Delhi!” Atishi wrote in a post.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">शर्म आनी चाहिए भाजपा की 4 इंजन की सरकार को। टिकरी कलाँ के नगर निगम बालिका विद्यालय में घुटनों तक पानी घुस आया, पर भाजपा को कोई परवाह नहीं है। कहाँ है भाजपा मुख्यमंत्री <a href="https://twitter.com/gupta_rekha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gupta_rekha</a>? कहाँ हैं भाजपा महापौर <a href="https://twitter.com/RajaiqbalSingh3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajaiqbalSingh3</a>? <a href="https://t.co/DCvtZj4vyX">https://t.co/DCvtZj4vyX</a>&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1947898682684412031?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Yamuna River approaches warning level</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Yamuna River’s water level is approaching warning levels amid monsoon rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate rain likely to continue in the city on Thursday (Jul 24). It is expected that the intensity of the rain will likely drop from Friday (Jul 25) and light rain is likely till Sunday (Jul 27), it added.&nbsp;The Safdarjung weather station recorded 14.4 mm of rain in the 24 hours till 8:30 am. Lodhi Road observed 20.6 mm rain in the same period, while Ridge recorded 32.8 mm, Pragati Maidan 38.9 mm, Pusa 23.5 mm, Janakpuri 18.5 mm and Najafgarh 13 mm.&nbsp;<h2>Delhi to record cleanest July AQI</h2>&nbsp;Delhi is set to record the cleanest July with an average air quality index (AQI) of 67, said environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. He added that the national capital has recorded 118 days of “good to moderate” AQI this year. In 2024, Delhi observed 120 such days. “This is not a seasonal blip — it is the result of multi-agency implementation model...and a clear commitment to outcome-based governance,” Sirsa said.

As heavy rains continue in Delhi, Yamuna River’s water level is approaching warning levels amid monsoon rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate rain likely to continue in the city on Thursday (Jul 24).

Following heavy rains in Delhi on Wednesday (Jul 23) morning, several videos have gone viral on social media showing people swimming and boating in the waterlogged streets. The commuters were faced with traffic disruptions in several areas of the national capital as many areas experienced waterlogging. Opposition leaders were quick to take an aim at the ruling BJP, raising questions on their management of the current situation. “BJP’s false claims have failed,” AAP wrote, while sharing a video of a woman using a children’s inflatable bathtub as a boat in Patparganj in East Delhi. “The local people are now inviting the BJP MLA to sail a boat in this waterlogging as well,” it added.

As heavy rains continue in Delhi, Yamuna River’s water level is approaching warning levels amid monsoon rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate rain likely to continue in the city on Thursday (Jul 24).

WATCH | Opposition shows grim reality to ruling BJP; woman seen rowing a ‘boat’ on waterlogged Delhi streets

A female teacher, 40, was granted bail in Mumbai after being booked for having a sexual relationship with one of her minor students. The teacher was booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for engaging in sexual activities with her 16-year-old student. While granting the bail, the court said it was a “consensual relationship," as evidence. The teacher was allegedly assaulting the student multiple times for over a year and luring the student to five-star hotels. She even made him consume alcohol before engaging him in sexual activities. She was nabbed when the boy's parents lodged a complaint last month.&nbsp;The special court for cases under POCSO Act noted that the female teacher had resigned last year after sexually assaulting the student. The court said the case has diluted the “student-teacher dynamic.” The special judge said the trial will take time to commence, so keeping the woman behind bars would not serve any purpose. The court released the woman, saying that she is the mother of two minor children.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-arrives-in-london-free-trade-deal-expected-today-1753328636365/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-arrives-in-london-free-trade-deal-expected-today-1753328636365/embed</a>&nbsp;The student referred to her as 'wife'&nbsp;The female teacher denied all the allegations and said that the FIR was lodged on the student's mother's instruction, who disapproved of their relationship. The female treacher said in her plea that the boy was emotionally attached to her and used to refer to her as his "wife." She also claimed that he had sent her affectionate messages and handwritten notes, and had a tattoo of her name on his body. She further claimed that she resigned in April 2024 &nbsp;to distance herself from the boy and insisted that she would only meet him with his mother’s permission.While granting him bail, the court said, "As the accused had resigned from the school, the relationship of a teacher and student no longer existed and, hence, the influence was diluted.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

A female teacher, 40, was granted bail in Mumbai for after being booked for making sexual relationship h one of her minor students in Mumbai. The teacher was booked under the POCSO Act for engaging sin sexual activities with her 16-year-old student. 

A female teacher, 40, was granted bail in Mumbai after being booked for having a sexual relationship with one of her minor students. The teacher was booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for engaging in sexual activities with her 16-year-old student. While granting the bail, the court said it was a “consensual relationship," as evidence. The teacher was allegedly assaulting the student multiple times for over a year and luring the student to five-star hotels. She even made him consume alcohol before engaging him in sexual activities. She was nabbed when the boy's parents lodged a complaint last month. The special court for cases under POCSO Act noted that the female teacher had resigned last year after sexually assaulting the student. The court said the case has diluted the “student-teacher dynamic.” The special judge said the trial will take time to commence, so keeping the woman behind bars would not serve any purpose. The court released the woman, saying that she is the mother of two minor children. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-arrives-in-london-free-trade-deal-expected-today-1753328636365/embed The student referred to her as 'wife' The female teacher denied all the allegations and said that the FIR was lodged on the student's mother's instruction, who disapproved of their relationship. The female treacher said in her plea that the boy was emotionally attached to her and used to refer to her as his "wife." She also claimed that he had sent her affectionate messages and handwritten notes, and had a tattoo of her name on his body. She further claimed that she resigned in April 2024 to distance herself from the boy and insisted that she would only meet him with his mother’s permission. While granting him bail, the court said, "As the accused had resigned from the school, the relationship of a teacher and student no longer existed and, hence, the influence was diluted.”

A female teacher, 40, was granted bail in Mumbai for after being booked for having sexual relationship h one of her minor students in Mumbai. The teacher was booked under the POCSO Act for engaging sin sexual activities with her 16-year-old student.&nbsp;

Female teacher, booked for having sex with minor student, out on bail; court says it was 'consensual relationship'

India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, arrived in London on Thursday (July 24) for a two-day official visit to finalise a historic free trade agreement with the United Kingdom. The pact is seen as a major political and economic win for both nations at a time of growing global trade tensions.<h2>Why does this deal matter for both sides?</h2>This is the UK’s most important trade agreement since Brexit, and India’s first major free trade deal outside Asia. For Britain, it offers a chance to boost post-Brexit trade. For India, it promises to support exports and investment. Modi’s fourth visit to the UK as prime minister includes talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on defence, technology, trade and security. He will also meet King Charles during his stay.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yet-another-retaliatory-step-is-harvard-risking-its-right-to-host-foreign-students-us-state-department-opens-fresh-investigation-1753294859597">'Yet another retaliatory step': Is Harvard risking its right to host foreign students? US State Department opens fresh investigation</a><h2>Key wins for India during negotiations</h2>India stood firm during talks and secured several key demands. These include concessions on work visas, recognition of professional qualifications, and exemptions from national insurance contributions for temporary Indian workers in the UK. Indian exports, covering goods such as gems, textiles, leather, garments, engineering products, and processed foods, will see 99% of tariffs scrapped under the deal.In exchange, the UK will benefit from phased tariff reductions on 90% of its exports to India. Scotch whisky tariffs will be cut from 150% to 75% immediately and down to 40% over ten years. British-made cars, which currently face tariffs over 100%, will see duties drop to 10% within a quota. Other sectors to gain include medical devices, pharmaceuticals, electronics and aircraft components.<h2>What does this mean for Indian industries?</h2>The Indian government hopes the deal will revive its ‘Make in India’ initiative and attract foreign investment, which has slowed recently. However, India kept its large agricultural sector off the table, a red line for New Delhi that has also blocked similar talks with the United States.Some parts of the deal may face backlash. Indian whisky producers have already expressed concern over what they call “unfair competition” from British imports. In a major shift, UK firms will now be allowed to compete in India’s large government procurement market, which could open doors in clean energy, transport and infrastructure.But not everything made it into the final agreement. The UK’s proposed carbon border tax, known as the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), was left out. India sees it as unfairly targeting developing economies like itself.Only the broad framework of the deal is public for now, but it marks a clear move away from India’s traditionally cautious and protectionist trade approach.

PM Modi’s fourth visit to the UK as prime minister includes talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on defence, technology, trade and security. He will also meet King Charles during his stay.

India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, arrived in London on Thursday (July 24) for a two-day official visit to finalise a historic free trade agreement with the United Kingdom. The pact is seen as a major political and economic win for both nations at a time of growing global trade tensions. Why does this deal matter for both sides? This is the UK’s most important trade agreement since Brexit, and India’s first major free trade deal outside Asia. For Britain, it offers a chance to boost post-Brexit trade. For India, it promises to support exports and investment. Modi’s fourth visit to the UK as prime minister includes talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on defence, technology, trade and security. He will also meet King Charles during his stay. Also read: 'Yet another retaliatory step': Is Harvard risking its right to host foreign students? US State Department opens fresh investigation Key wins for India during negotiations India stood firm during talks and secured several key demands. These include concessions on work visas, recognition of professional qualifications, and exemptions from national insurance contributions for temporary Indian workers in the UK. Indian exports, covering goods such as gems, textiles, leather, garments, engineering products, and processed foods, will see 99% of tariffs scrapped under the deal. In exchange, the UK will benefit from phased tariff reductions on 90% of its exports to India. Scotch whisky tariffs will be cut from 150% to 75% immediately and down to 40% over ten years. British-made cars, which currently face tariffs over 100%, will see duties drop to 10% within a quota. Other sectors to gain include medical devices, pharmaceuticals, electronics and aircraft components. What does this mean for Indian industries? The Indian government hopes the deal will revive its ‘Make in India’ initiative and attract foreign investment, which has slowed recently. However, India kept its large agricultural sector off the table, a red line for New Delhi that has also blocked similar talks with the United States. Some parts of the deal may face backlash. Indian whisky producers have already expressed concern over what they call “unfair competition” from British imports. In a major shift, UK firms will now be allowed to compete in India’s large government procurement market, which could open doors in clean energy, transport and infrastructure. But not everything made it into the final agreement. The UK’s proposed carbon border tax, known as the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), was left out. India sees it as unfairly targeting developing economies like itself. Only the broad framework of the deal is public for now, but it marks a clear move away from India’s traditionally cautious and protectionist trade approach.

PM Modi’s fourth visit to the UK as prime minister includes talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on defence, technology, trade and security. He will also meet King Charles during his stay.

PM Modi lands in UK to seal historic post-Brexit trade deal with Keir Starmer - What does it mean for both countries?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom will be signing the much anticipated free trade agreement, announced in the month of May, later today. A UK statement, confirming that the trade agreement will be signed later today, said that it will boost bilateral trade by £25.5bn every year. The signing of the free trade agreement is seen as a significant milestone in economic ties between the 2 countries, one that comes even as India is in talks with the European Union and United States for trade agreements.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-uk-to-seal-historic-post-brexit-trade-deal-with-keir-starmer-what-does-it-mean-for-both-countries-1753297335082">PM Modi lands in UK to seal historic post-Brexit trade deal with Keir Starmer - What does it mean for both countries?</a>Terming the trade agreement as a "landmark" UK PM Keir Starmer said that it is a "major win for Britain" and will "create thousands of British jobs across the UK, unlock new opportunities for businesses and drive growth in every corner of the country, delivering on our Plan for Change.” The agreement is seen as UK’s most economically significant bilateral trade deal since leaving the European Union and significantly improves market access for businesses in both countries.The UK estimates that the trade agreement will not only create jobs and help accelerate growth of the British economy, but benefits the Indian consumers with improved access to the British products – from soft drinks and cosmetics to cars and medical devices – as average tariffs will drop from 15% to 3%. The bilateral trade between the two countries crossed $55 billion in 2023-24. The UK is the sixth largest investor in India, with a cumulative investment of $36 billion. India itself is a large source of Foreign Direct Investment in the UK, with a cumulative investment of close to $20 billion. There are close to a thousand Indian companies in the UK that provide employment to nearly 100,000 people and have a cumulative revenue of over $91 billion.Welcoming the signing of the Free trade agreement, UK's Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said, “the almost £6 billion in new investment and export wins announced today will deliver thousands of jobs and shows the strength of our partnership with India as we ensure the UK is the best place in the world to invest and do business." The next step for the UK Government will be to prepare for the trade agreement to be ratified by Parliament.PM Modi is currently on a UK visit, his fourth visit to the country since assuming office. He has been to the country in 2015, 2018 and was there in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have already met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and then, in June this year, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Both countries will also unveil a renewed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership – the UK-India Vision 2035 - later today. PM Modi will also meet King Charles III.

The agreement is seen as UK’s most economically significant bilateral trade deal since leaving the European Union and significantly improves market access for businesses in both countries.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom will be signing the much anticipated free trade agreement, announced in the month of May, later today. A UK statement, confirming that the trade agreement will be signed later today, said that it will boost bilateral trade by £25.5bn every year. The signing of the free trade agreement is seen as a significant milestone in economic ties between the 2 countries, one that comes even as India is in talks with the European Union and United States for trade agreements. Also read: PM Modi lands in UK to seal historic post-Brexit trade deal with Keir Starmer - What does it mean for both countries? Terming the trade agreement as a "landmark" UK PM Keir Starmer said that it is a "major win for Britain" and will "create thousands of British jobs across the UK, unlock new opportunities for businesses and drive growth in every corner of the country, delivering on our Plan for Change.” The agreement is seen as UK’s most economically significant bilateral trade deal since leaving the European Union and significantly improves market access for businesses in both countries. The UK estimates that the trade agreement will not only create jobs and help accelerate growth of the British economy, but benefits the Indian consumers with improved access to the British products – from soft drinks and cosmetics to cars and medical devices – as average tariffs will drop from 15% to 3%. The bilateral trade between the two countries crossed $55 billion in 2023-24. The UK is the sixth largest investor in India, with a cumulative investment of $36 billion. India itself is a large source of Foreign Direct Investment in the UK, with a cumulative investment of close to $20 billion. There are close to a thousand Indian companies in the UK that provide employment to nearly 100,000 people and have a cumulative revenue of over $91 billion. Welcoming the signing of the Free trade agreement, UK's Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said, “the almost £6 billion in new investment and export wins announced today will deliver thousands of jobs and shows the strength of our partnership with India as we ensure the UK is the best place in the world to invest and do business." The next step for the UK Government will be to prepare for the trade agreement to be ratified by Parliament. PM Modi is currently on a UK visit, his fourth visit to the country since assuming office. He has been to the country in 2015, 2018 and was there in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have already met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and then, in June this year, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Both countries will also unveil a renewed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership – the UK-India Vision 2035 - later today. PM Modi will also meet King Charles III.

The agreement is seen as UK’s most economically significant bilateral trade deal since leaving the European Union and significantly improves market access for businesses in both countries.

India, United Kingdom to sign free trade agreement today

Maldives’ top politician Abdulla Shahid has termed India as a ‘constant pillar’ ‘support for his country and ‘international 911’ for being the first responder to any crisis. His comments come ahead of PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives to attend the Independence Day celebrations where he is the ‘guest of honour’. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal from Malé, President of Maldivian Democratic Party, Abdulla Shahid said that his country is “blessed that we have a neighbour that is 5th largest economy, has over 6% growth rate, and a $ 4 trillion economy...Maldives need to tap into this economy.”&nbsp;Maldivian Democratic Party is the key opposition part of the country. Abdulla Shahid in the past has been the President of United Nations General Assembly, and foreign minister of Maldives. On India being the voice of the Global South, Shahid said, “PM Modi is a world leader sympathetic to the global south, and understands the challenges of the global south.” PM Modi has been to Maldives in 2019 last as part of his first foreign visit in his 2nd term. Full interview&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the upcoming visit of PM Modi to Maldives?Abdulla Shahid: We are delighted that the Prime Minister is visiting us, especially on this very special occasion of our 60th anniversary of independence. The Prime Minister's visit is of great significance. It goes actually beyond symbolism because of the recent diplomatic strain that has been developed between our two countries to have the Prime Minister visit us on our Independence Day and be the guest of honor during the Independence Day celebrations, showcases very clearly that the relationship between our two countries go beyond petty political narrative. It is good that the current government has finally recognized that the relationship between our two countries is a true friendship. It has been flourishing for the last six decades, and that we can put the political narratives that have been used during the last elections behind us and look forward to making sure that we do not go back to that difficult era. We should recognize that this visit is a new beginning. Point where Maldivian politicians and political parties realize and recognize that we should not be using our development partners in neighbouring countries as punching bags for political convenience. This is a truly, truly momentous occasion for the Maldives.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: India has been constant in terms of supporting Maldives, whether it's the COVID crisis, whether it's the infrastructure development in your country, whether it is the capacity building as well. So if you can briefly give an overview, given the fact that this is something that both governments have seen happening.Abdulla Shahid: Our relationship dates back to 6 decades. We are celebrating the 60th anniversary of independence also. This year, we are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries. In the last 60 years, India has been a constant pillar of support in our development activities. First and foremost, of course, the human resource development, capacity building that has taken place in the Maldives with the generous assistance of India, can never be overstated. It has been a huge, huge contribution by India. When we look at the infrastructure projects, the currently ongoing projects, like the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, the defense building, the UTF Coast Guard Harbour, the Hanimaadhoo International Airport, the Addu development projects, the list goes on and on. These projects are continuing irrespective of change of government, because the Indian government and Indian people see not in terms of colour of the party that is in government in the Maldives. True friendship is based between the peoples of these two countries, and we are indeed grateful. I'm also delighted that some of the projects that we started during our time in government are going to be inaugurated during the Prime Minister's visit, like the defence building and the Hanimaadhoo airport and many, many other smaller projects of community development assistance that have been ongoing between our two countries.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How important has been Indian tourism for Maldives?Abdulla Shahid: We are blessed that we have as our neighbour, the fifth largest economy in the world, the country which has over 60% growth rate, a country which is reaching $4 trillion US in its GDP, a huge, huge economy. Maldives needs to tap into this economy. And of course, the reason why our government, the previous government, decided to work with India, develop Hanimaadhoo airport so that we could be able to integrate our economies. Hanimaadhoo International Airport is going to be just about one hour from major cities in the south, including Mumbai and Chennai, Bangalore and other major cities. This would boost the tourism industry, as we have never seen before, because of the large number of tourists that have travelled. You are right that during COVID-19 pandemic, when External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar visited the Maldives, I met him, and we both agreed that for the Maldives to recover from the downturn, only way we could develop is to move into a bubble tourism arrangement, and that greatly benefit. There was a point you would recall Siddhant, a point where we had more Bollywood stars in the Maldives than in India, which gave great publicity to the good projects, the beauty that we have in the Maldives. It was most unfortunate that two Junior ministers picked a completely unnecessary fight with India, which greatly hurt our industry. We should be able to put that behind now. President Muizzu's recognition publicly by inviting Prime Ministers to grace the celebrations of Independence Day shows that President Muizzu has now realized that there is a true friend in India. The friendship between our two countries goes beyond political convenience, and I am confident that the Prime Minister's visit will give a much-needed boost to our tourism industry.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: And how do you see the cooperation in the defence sector?Abdulla Shahid: Defence cooperation dates back decades. We have a great foundation on defence cooperation for mutual benefit. India and Maldives share the Indian Ocean, and peace and security in the Indian Ocean is necessary for the Maldives, if Maldives is going to prosper. In India we find a strong partner who is ready to assist us in case of emergency, in case of dealing with non-state actors that flourish in the open ocean. These are the kind of situations where Maldives and India have partnered and greatly benefited. We are also conducting joint exercises, and we have been working on this, as I said, since the early 90s. The annual joint exercises provide both our forces to be ready, for instance, of emergency. Human resource development in the field of defence and also intelligence sharing has provided Maldives and India to deter any elements that might want to take advantage of our geographic location. Delighted that the current Maldives government has decided to go ahead with all the previous agreements that have been signed. They have now realized that the narrative that they have pushed, the narrative of hate that they have pushed, was wrong. My request, and what I would urge the current government to do, is not to go back to that era where they have purposely or unknowingly hurt this very special relationship between our two countries.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India as the voice of the global south?Abdulla Shahid: I have had the great pleasure and privilege of meeting Prime Minister Modi on many occasions, and in him, I've seen a leader, a world leader who is sympathetic to the global South, who understands the challenges of the Global South, and is providing every opportunity that is available under his leadership to promote and showcase the global south. For example, when India had the opportunity to chair the G20 Summit, India had that magnanimity of inviting leaders from the global south and be part of the whole process. No other country so far has given that opportunity to the global south. So the global south appreciates Indian leadership. We in the Maldives appreciate Prime Minister Modi's leadership in giving this opportunity to all countries, especially the smaller, more vulnerable countries in the global south.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: And I am sure, you will have a meeting with PM Modi..Abdulla Shahid: Well, I'm looking forward to meeting, and I'm very grateful for that opportunity.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: If you can talk about the economic situation in your country and also, India's support for it..Abdulla Shahid: We are very grateful for continuous Indian assistance to successive governments to alleviate the challenges that we face in the economic field. As you know, Siddhant Maldives has a very narrow economic base, the fluctuations in the international market, on energy prices, the ongoing wars around the world, these all have a terrible, terrible impact on small economies, and we suffer the most. We need genuine friendship from our development partners, and in India, we have obviously seen that India is a true friend who is always ready. And as I always say, whenever we have an emergency, and dial international 911, India has always been our first responder.

Maldivian politicians and political parties must realise and recognise that we should not be using our development partners in neighbouring countries as punching bags for our political convenience, said Abdulla Shahid, president of Maldivian Democratic Party.

Maldives’ top politician Abdulla Shahid has termed India as a ‘constant pillar’ ‘support for his country and ‘international 911’ for being the first responder to any crisis. His comments come ahead of PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives to attend the Independence Day celebrations where he is the ‘guest of honour’. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal from Malé, President of Maldivian Democratic Party, Abdulla Shahid said that his country is “blessed that we have a neighbour that is 5th largest economy, has over 6% growth rate, and a $ 4 trillion economy...Maldives need to tap into this economy.” Maldivian Democratic Party is the key opposition part of the country. Abdulla Shahid in the past has been the President of United Nations General Assembly, and foreign minister of Maldives. On India being the voice of the Global South, Shahid said, “PM Modi is a world leader sympathetic to the global south, and understands the challenges of the global south.” PM Modi has been to Maldives in 2019 last as part of his first foreign visit in his 2nd term. Full interview Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the upcoming visit of PM Modi to Maldives? Abdulla Shahid: We are delighted that the Prime Minister is visiting us, especially on this very special occasion of our 60th anniversary of independence. The Prime Minister's visit is of great significance. It goes actually beyond symbolism because of the recent diplomatic strain that has been developed between our two countries to have the Prime Minister visit us on our Independence Day and be the guest of honor during the Independence Day celebrations, showcases very clearly that the relationship between our two countries go beyond petty political narrative. It is good that the current government has finally recognized that the relationship between our two countries is a true friendship. It has been flourishing for the last six decades, and that we can put the political narratives that have been used during the last elections behind us and look forward to making sure that we do not go back to that difficult era. We should recognize that this visit is a new beginning. Point where Maldivian politicians and political parties realize and recognize that we should not be using our development partners in neighbouring countries as punching bags for political convenience. This is a truly, truly momentous occasion for the Maldives. Sidhant Sibal: India has been constant in terms of supporting Maldives, whether it's the COVID crisis, whether it's the infrastructure development in your country, whether it is the capacity building as well. So if you can briefly give an overview, given the fact that this is something that both governments have seen happening. Abdulla Shahid: Our relationship dates back to 6 decades. We are celebrating the 60th anniversary of independence also. This year, we are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries. In the last 60 years, India has been a constant pillar of support in our development activities. First and foremost, of course, the human resource development, capacity building that has taken place in the Maldives with the generous assistance of India, can never be overstated. It has been a huge, huge contribution by India. When we look at the infrastructure projects, the currently ongoing projects, like the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, the defense building, the UTF Coast Guard Harbour, the Hanimaadhoo International Airport, the Addu development projects, the list goes on and on. These projects are continuing irrespective of change of government, because the Indian government and Indian people see not in terms of colour of the party that is in government in the Maldives. True friendship is based between the peoples of these two countries, and we are indeed grateful. I'm also delighted that some of the projects that we started during our time in government are going to be inaugurated during the Prime Minister's visit, like the defence building and the Hanimaadhoo airport and many, many other smaller projects of community development assistance that have been ongoing between our two countries. Sidhant Sibal: How important has been Indian tourism for Maldives? Abdulla Shahid: We are blessed that we have as our neighbour, the fifth largest economy in the world, the country which has over 60% growth rate, a country which is reaching $4 trillion US in its GDP, a huge, huge economy. Maldives needs to tap into this economy. And of course, the reason why our government, the previous government, decided to work with India, develop Hanimaadhoo airport so that we could be able to integrate our economies. Hanimaadhoo International Airport is going to be just about one hour from major cities in the south, including Mumbai and Chennai, Bangalore and other major cities. This would boost the tourism industry, as we have never seen before, because of the large number of tourists that have travelled. You are right that during COVID-19 pandemic, when External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar visited the Maldives, I met him, and we both agreed that for the Maldives to recover from the downturn, only way we could develop is to move into a bubble tourism arrangement, and that greatly benefit. There was a point you would recall Siddhant, a point where we had more Bollywood stars in the Maldives than in India, which gave great publicity to the good projects, the beauty that we have in the Maldives. It was most unfortunate that two Junior ministers picked a completely unnecessary fight with India, which greatly hurt our industry. We should be able to put that behind now. President Muizzu's recognition publicly by inviting Prime Ministers to grace the celebrations of Independence Day shows that President Muizzu has now realized that there is a true friend in India. The friendship between our two countries goes beyond political convenience, and I am confident that the Prime Minister's visit will give a much-needed boost to our tourism industry. Sidhant Sibal: And how do you see the cooperation in the defence sector? Abdulla Shahid: Defence cooperation dates back decades. We have a great foundation on defence cooperation for mutual benefit. India and Maldives share the Indian Ocean, and peace and security in the Indian Ocean is necessary for the Maldives, if Maldives is going to prosper. In India we find a strong partner who is ready to assist us in case of emergency, in case of dealing with non-state actors that flourish in the open ocean. These are the kind of situations where Maldives and India have partnered and greatly benefited. We are also conducting joint exercises, and we have been working on this, as I said, since the early 90s. The annual joint exercises provide both our forces to be ready, for instance, of emergency. Human resource development in the field of defence and also intelligence sharing has provided Maldives and India to deter any elements that might want to take advantage of our geographic location. Delighted that the current Maldives government has decided to go ahead with all the previous agreements that have been signed. They have now realized that the narrative that they have pushed, the narrative of hate that they have pushed, was wrong. My request, and what I would urge the current government to do, is not to go back to that era where they have purposely or unknowingly hurt this very special relationship between our two countries. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India as the voice of the global south? Abdulla Shahid: I have had the great pleasure and privilege of meeting Prime Minister Modi on many occasions, and in him, I've seen a leader, a world leader who is sympathetic to the global South, who understands the challenges of the Global South, and is providing every opportunity that is available under his leadership to promote and showcase the global south. For example, when India had the opportunity to chair the G20 Summit, India had that magnanimity of inviting leaders from the global south and be part of the whole process. No other country so far has given that opportunity to the global south. So the global south appreciates Indian leadership. We in the Maldives appreciate Prime Minister Modi's leadership in giving this opportunity to all countries, especially the smaller, more vulnerable countries in the global south. Sidhant Sibal: And I am sure, you will have a meeting with PM Modi.. Abdulla Shahid: Well, I'm looking forward to meeting, and I'm very grateful for that opportunity. Sidhant Sibal: If you can talk about the economic situation in your country and also, India's support for it.. Abdulla Shahid: We are very grateful for continuous Indian assistance to successive governments to alleviate the challenges that we face in the economic field. As you know, Siddhant Maldives has a very narrow economic base, the fluctuations in the international market, on energy prices, the ongoing wars around the world, these all have a terrible, terrible impact on small economies, and we suffer the most. We need genuine friendship from our development partners, and in India, we have obviously seen that India is a true friend who is always ready. And as I always say, whenever we have an emergency, and dial international 911, India has always been our first responder.

Maldivian politicians and political parties must realise and recognise that we should not be using our development partners in neighbouring countries as punching bags for our political convenience, said Abdulla Shahid, president of Maldivian Democratic Party.

‘India has been a constant pillar of support,’ says Maldives’ top politician Abdulla Shahid

India on Wednesday extended help to Bangladesh by sending a team of doctors to treat those who sustained serious burn injuries in the air force crash in Dhaka. The team includes two burn specialists from the national capital's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital, and a nursing assistant.&nbsp;"This evening (July 23), a team of two Indian specialists and a nursing assistant from two of India’s topmost burn injury treatment hospitals — Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi — landed in Dhaka to help with the treatment of the victims of the plane crash tragedy of 21 July in Dhaka. They will begin their work at a designated hospital treating these patients from tomorrow morning. Their visit follows PM Narendra Modi's assurance to extend all possible assistance and support to Bangladesh in the wake of the tragedy," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.&nbsp;A Bangladesh air force jet crashed in Dhaka's residential area earlier this week. According to the Bangladesh Chief Adviser's Press Wing, the death toll in the crash rose to 29.&nbsp;The plane, an F-7 fighter jet, crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in Dhaka on Monday afternoon. The authorities in Bangladesh are apprehensive that the death toll might rise, as at least 25 patients with serious burn injuries are critical. The jet was being flown by Bangladeshi Air Force Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam Sagar, who also died in the crash.&nbsp;On July 21, PM Modi expressed condolences at the loss of lives in the tragic air crash.&nbsp;India and Bangladesh's diplomatic relations have been strained since the unceremonious ouster of the latter's prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, last year, following violent nationwide agitation against her government over quotas in jobs. She fled Dhaka in a military aircraft and took shelter in India. New Delhi and Dhaka's relations were also strained due to the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh following Hasina's exit.

India on Wednesday extended help to Bangladesh by sending a team of doctors to treat those who sustained serious burn injuries in the air force crash in Dhaka.

India on Wednesday extended help to Bangladesh by sending a team of doctors to treat those who sustained serious burn injuries in the air force crash in Dhaka. The team includes two burn specialists from the national capital's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital, and a nursing assistant. "This evening (July 23), a team of two Indian specialists and a nursing assistant from two of India’s topmost burn injury treatment hospitals — Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi — landed in Dhaka to help with the treatment of the victims of the plane crash tragedy of 21 July in Dhaka. They will begin their work at a designated hospital treating these patients from tomorrow morning. Their visit follows PM Narendra Modi's assurance to extend all possible assistance and support to Bangladesh in the wake of the tragedy," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. A Bangladesh air force jet crashed in Dhaka's residential area earlier this week. According to the Bangladesh Chief Adviser's Press Wing, the death toll in the crash rose to 29. The plane, an F-7 fighter jet, crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in Dhaka on Monday afternoon. The authorities in Bangladesh are apprehensive that the death toll might rise, as at least 25 patients with serious burn injuries are critical. The jet was being flown by Bangladeshi Air Force Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam Sagar, who also died in the crash. On July 21, PM Modi expressed condolences at the loss of lives in the tragic air crash. India and Bangladesh's diplomatic relations have been strained since the unceremonious ouster of the latter's prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, last year, following violent nationwide agitation against her government over quotas in jobs. She fled Dhaka in a military aircraft and took shelter in India. New Delhi and Dhaka's relations were also strained due to the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh following Hasina's exit.

A Bangladesh air force jet crashed in Dhaka's residential area earlier this week.

Bangladesh jet crash: India sends Delhi's burn specialist doctors to Dhaka

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