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Indian missile development program continues to evolve at a rapid pace. India has recently tested the key player in its surface-to-air missile arsenal Akash defence system. The newest iteration, Akash Prime, is making headlines, but how is it in comparison with the already in use, Akash New Generation (NG)?<h2>What is Akash Prime?</h2>Akash Prime is the latest iteration of the surface-to-air missile defence system. Developed by DRDO and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), it is designed to enhance India's missile defence capabilities in low temperature and high altitude situations.<h2>Key features of Akash Prime</h2><ul><li>It is installed with an indigenously developed active radio frequency seeker, which improves the precision against agile targets like cruise missiles, fighter jets or drones.</li><li>It is specifically optimised for high altitude and low temperature territories like the India-Tibet border. It is incorporated with enhanced thermal shielding, making it perfect for protecting assets in sensitive areas and extreme weather conditions like the Siachin glaciers and Ladakh.</li><li>It can engage targets at an altitude of 18 km at a distance of 30 km away.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Akash Missile Defence System</h2>Akash Prime is the fourth version of the Akash Missiles. The first three were Akash Mk-1, Akash-1S, and Akash NG. Notably, Akash Prime was previously tested in 2021 once, but this iteration includes the active radio frequency seeker and is optimised for the sensitive temperature region. The Akash Missile Defence System consists of a single battery with radar and four launchers. Each has three missiles with 60&nbsp;kg (130&nbsp;lb) high explosive, 64 targets and can attack up to 12 of them. The system provides coverage up to 2,000&nbsp;square km.&nbsp;<h2>Akash NG vs Akash Prime</h2>Akash NG has a range of 70-80 km compared to the 27-30 km range of the Akash Prime. It is sleeker and lighter and utilises a more advanced dual-pulse solid rocket motor, replacing the older ramjet engine for improved performance. Akash NG is mobile, and its smaller ground system footprint makes it easier to deploy and transport.&nbsp;While Akash NG is the future with longer range and smarter tech. Akash Prime, on the other hand, is designed for specific terrain with lower temperatures and higher altitudes, smarter tech, reliable and rugged.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 The Indian Army on Wednesday tested the Akash Prime Missile at over 15,000 feet in Ladakh. It will be equipped third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems. The surface-to-air missile scored two direct hits on a fast-moving airborne target in the high altitude zone.

Indian missile development program continues to evolve at a rapid pace. India has recently tested the key player in its surface-to-air missile arsenal Akash defence system. The newest iteration, Akash Prime, is making headlines, but how is it in comparison with the already in use, Akash New Generation (NG)? What is Akash Prime? Akash Prime is the latest iteration of the surface-to-air missile defence system. Developed by DRDO and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), it is designed to enhance India's missile defence capabilities in low temperature and high altitude situations. Key features of Akash Prime It is installed with an indigenously developed active radio frequency seeker, which improves the precision against agile targets like cruise missiles, fighter jets or drones. It is specifically optimised for high altitude and low temperature territories like the India-Tibet border. It is incorporated with enhanced thermal shielding, making it perfect for protecting assets in sensitive areas and extreme weather conditions like the Siachin glaciers and Ladakh. It can engage targets at an altitude of 18 km at a distance of 30 km away. Akash Missile Defence System Akash Prime is the fourth version of the Akash Missiles. The first three were Akash Mk-1, Akash-1S, and Akash NG. Notably, Akash Prime was previously tested in 2021 once, but this iteration includes the active radio frequency seeker and is optimised for the sensitive temperature region. The Akash Missile Defence System consists of a single battery with radar and four launchers. Each has three missiles with 60 kg (130 lb) high explosive, 64 targets and can attack up to 12 of them. The system provides coverage up to 2,000 square km. Akash NG vs Akash Prime Akash NG has a range of 70-80 km compared to the 27-30 km range of the Akash Prime. It is sleeker and lighter and utilises a more advanced dual-pulse solid rocket motor, replacing the older ramjet engine for improved performance. Akash NG is mobile, and its smaller ground system footprint makes it easier to deploy and transport. While Akash NG is the future with longer range and smarter tech. Akash Prime, on the other hand, is designed for specific terrain with lower temperatures and higher altitudes, smarter tech, reliable and rugged.

The Indian Army on Wednesday tested the Akash Prime Missile at over 15,000 feet in Ladakh. It will be equipped in the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems. The surface-to-air missile scored two direct hits on a fast-moving airborne target in the high altitude zone.

What Is Akash Prime missile? How is it different from the Akash-NG?

Unidentified assailants shot a prisoner, who was admitted to a hospital in Patna for treatment, police said on Thursday (July 17). The prisoner was identified as Chandan Mishra and was out on parole on the grounds of required medical attention and was admitted to Paras Hospital for treatment. Unidentified assailants barged into the hospital and shot him while the incident was captured on CCTV. Chandan Mishra was a known criminal with dozens of murder cases registered against him. The Police believe that the rival gang has carried out the shooting, as per news agency ANI. Opposition has slammed the Bihar government for the deteriorating law and order situation in the poll-bound state.&nbsp;&nbsp;"A criminal named Chandan Mishra, resident of Buxar district, against whom dozens of cases of murder are registered. He was transferred from Buxar to Bhagalpur jail. Chandan was on parole and admitted to Paras Hospital for treatment. The rival gang shot him. He is undergoing treatment, and with the help of the Buxar police, we are identifying the members of the rival gang, Chandan Sheru gang," SSP Kartikay Sharma said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Patna, Bihar: CCTV footage from Paras Hospital shows five armed assailants entering the facility, shooting dead Chandan Mishra, an accused in multiple murder cases, who was on parole and undergoing treatment, and then fleeing the scene <a href="https://t.co/1XJe26gge3">pic.twitter.com/1XJe26gge3</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://twitter.com/ians_india/status/1945769811688173758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Opposition slams Bihar government</h2>RJD leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav questioned the Bihar government, asking if "anyone was safe anywhere" in the state after unidentified assailants shot a prisoner admitted at a hospital in Patna. In a post on X, Tejashwi Yadav said, "Government criminals stormed into the ICU and shot a patient admitted to the hospital. Is anyone safe anywhere in Bihar? Has this happened before 2005?"

Opposition has slammed the Bihar government for the deteriorating law and order situation in the poll-bound state after unidentified assailants shot a prisoner, who was admitted to a hospital in Patna for treatment

Unidentified assailants shot a prisoner, who was admitted to a hospital in Patna for treatment, police said on Thursday (July 17). The prisoner was identified as Chandan Mishra and was out on parole on the grounds of required medical attention and was admitted to Paras Hospital for treatment. Unidentified assailants barged into the hospital and shot him while the incident was captured on CCTV. Chandan Mishra was a known criminal with dozens of murder cases registered against him. The Police believe that the rival gang has carried out the shooting, as per news agency ANI. Opposition has slammed the Bihar government for the deteriorating law and order situation in the poll-bound state. "A criminal named Chandan Mishra, resident of Buxar district, against whom dozens of cases of murder are registered. He was transferred from Buxar to Bhagalpur jail. Chandan was on parole and admitted to Paras Hospital for treatment. The rival gang shot him. He is undergoing treatment, and with the help of the Buxar police, we are identifying the members of the rival gang, Chandan Sheru gang," SSP Kartikay Sharma said.

Opposition has slammed the Bihar government for the deteriorating law and order situation in the poll-bound state after unidentified assailants shot a prisoner, who was admitted to a hospital in Patna for treatment

Armed men walk into Bihar hospital, shoot prisoner out on parole; incident captured on CCTV

NCERT on Wednesday explained&nbsp;why it modified&nbsp;the content related to the Mughal dynasty in its social science textbook for Class 8, saying the stated facts were based on what it described as “well-known primary and secondary academic sources”. The book noted that Mughal emperor Akbar was a blend of brutality and tolerance, and that he ordered the killing of 30000 people in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh after a protracted siege.&nbsp;"This textbook attempts to provide an idea about the geography, history (medieval &amp; modern), economic life, and governance of the country, from a multi-disciplinary perspective in an integrated way," the NCERT statement reads.&nbsp;The body also said that a cautionary note had been inserted in the book that said no one should be held responsible for the events of the past. It further said that Indian history can't be sanitised and presented as a happy development throughout. "There were bright periods but also dark periods where people suffered," it added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-new-ncert-book-describes-akbar-killed-30000-hindus-brutal-and-tolerant-1752647907303">Also read: 'Killed 30000 in Chittorgarh, brutal': How new NCERT book describes Akbar</a>&nbsp;The social science book for Class 8 described Aurangzeb as the one who banned "un-Islamic" activities in India and was responsible for the persecution of the adherents of other faiths.&nbsp;It noted that during the siege of Chittorgarh in 1568, Akbar ordered the massacre of some 30,000 civilians and the enslavement of surviving women and children. He, the book says, commented after the slaughter: “We have succeeded in occupying several forts and towns belonging to the infidels and have established Islam there... With the help of our bloodthirsty sword, we have erased the signs of infidelity from their minds and have destroyed temples in those places, and also all over Hindustan”.&nbsp;It said Akbar abolished the jizya system, which imposed taxes on those who followed faiths other than Islam. Under Aurangzeb, the book said, the Mughal empire grew leaps and bounds but was marred by religious orthodoxy and policies.&nbsp;“He gradually banned practices he regarded as un-Islamic, such as music and dance in his court, and reimposed the jizya tax on non-Muslims as well as a pilgrimage tax on Hindus travelling to their sacred places (both of which had been abolished by Akbar),” it said.

NCERT on Wednesday explained why it modified the content related to the Mughal dynasty in its social science textbook for Class 8, saying the stated facts were based on what it described as “well-known primary and secondary academic sources”.

NCERT on Wednesday explained why it modified the content related to the Mughal dynasty in its social science textbook for Class 8, saying the stated facts were based on what it described as “well-known primary and secondary academic sources”. The book noted that Mughal emperor Akbar was a blend of brutality and tolerance, and that he ordered the killing of 30000 people in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh after a protracted siege. "This textbook attempts to provide an idea about the geography, history (medieval & modern), economic life, and governance of the country, from a multi-disciplinary perspective in an integrated way," the NCERT statement reads. The body also said that a cautionary note had been inserted in the book that said no one should be held responsible for the events of the past. It further said that Indian history can't be sanitised and presented as a happy development throughout. "There were bright periods but also dark periods where people suffered," it added. Also read: 'Killed 30000 in Chittorgarh, brutal': How new NCERT book describes Akbar The social science book for Class 8 described Aurangzeb as the one who banned "un-Islamic" activities in India and was responsible for the persecution of the adherents of other faiths. It noted that during the siege of Chittorgarh in 1568, Akbar ordered the massacre of some 30,000 civilians and the enslavement of surviving women and children. He, the book says, commented after the slaughter: “We have succeeded in occupying several forts and towns belonging to the infidels and have established Islam there... With the help of our bloodthirsty sword, we have erased the signs of infidelity from their minds and have destroyed temples in those places, and also all over Hindustan”. It said Akbar abolished the jizya system, which imposed taxes on those who followed faiths other than Islam. Under Aurangzeb, the book said, the Mughal empire grew leaps and bounds but was marred by religious orthodoxy and policies. “He gradually banned practices he regarded as un-Islamic, such as music and dance in his court, and reimposed the jizya tax on non-Muslims as well as a pilgrimage tax on Hindus travelling to their sacred places (both of which had been abolished by Akbar),” it said.

NCERT said that a cautionary note had been inserted in the book that said no one should be held responsible for the events of the past

'History can't be sanitised': NCERT on book claiming Akbar was brutal, killed 30000 in Chittorgarh

The town of Maski in Karnataka was home to humans some 4,000 years ago. The revelation was made by scientists who were digging to unearth more secrets about the quaint place in Raichur after an inscription from the age of Ashoka was found here. Scientists from the United States, Canada and India collaborated to learn more about the history of Maski. Archaeologists dug up around Mallikarjun Hill and the Anjaneya Swamy temple and discovered various artefacts and other tools. They go as far as four millennia and reveal that the region was once a thriving settlement. The three researchers - Prof Andreem M Bower from the US-based Stanford University, Peter G Johansson from McGill University, Canada and Hemanth Kadambi from the Noida University - made the breakthrough along with 20 others who assisted them. Ever since the inscription was found here from the time of the Maurya emperor, scientists have been intrigued by Maski. They have been searching for signs of human civilisation in the region.&nbsp;After obtaining necessary permissions from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the team planned how to go about the excavation. They surveyed the area and identified 271 points which could hold some secrets. After three months of digging, they came across evidence of a thriving society in Maski around the 11th and 14th centuries BC. This was particularly true for the area around the Mallikarjun Hill and the temple. “We have found evidence that indicates that there was a human settlement in Maski around 4,000 years ago,” Kadambi confirmed. The researchers stumbled upon pots and pans, indicating humans were present here during the age of Ashoka.&nbsp;<h2>The Maski inscription from the time of Ashoka</h2>The Maski inscription was discovered in 1915 by British gold mining engineer C. Beadon. It was carved on a rock face inside a cave. It is one of the first inscriptions from the time of the Mauryan emperor with his name clearly mentioned along with his royal title "Devanampriya" (Beloved of the Gods). The mention of the title with Ashoka's name solved a long-standing dispute that the title "Devanampriya" was indeed used for Ashoka. It was written in the Prakrit language and Brahmi script and proved that Ashoka was committed to non-violence.&nbsp;

Archaeologists from India, the United States and Canada have dug up new evidence of humanity thriving in a small town in Karnataka. This comes 110 years after the famous Maski inscription about Ashoka was unearthed from the region.

The town of Maski in Karnataka was home to humans some 4,000 years ago. The revelation was made by scientists who were digging to unearth more secrets about the quaint place in Raichur after an inscription from the age of Ashoka was found here. Scientists from the United States, Canada and India collaborated to learn more about the history of Maski. Archaeologists dug up around Mallikarjun Hill and the Anjaneya Swamy temple and discovered various artefacts and other tools. They go as far as four millennia and reveal that the region was once a thriving settlement. The three researchers - Prof Andreem M Bower from the US-based Stanford University, Peter G Johansson from McGill University, Canada and Hemanth Kadambi from the Noida University - made the breakthrough along with 20 others who assisted them. Ever since the inscription was found here from the time of the Maurya emperor, scientists have been intrigued by Maski. They have been searching for signs of human civilisation in the region. After obtaining necessary permissions from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the team planned how to go about the excavation. They surveyed the area and identified 271 points which could hold some secrets. After three months of digging, they came across evidence of a thriving society in Maski around the 11th and 14th centuries BC. This was particularly true for the area around the Mallikarjun Hill and the temple. “We have found evidence that indicates that there was a human settlement in Maski around 4,000 years ago,” Kadambi confirmed. The researchers stumbled upon pots and pans, indicating humans were present here during the age of Ashoka. The Maski inscription from the time of Ashoka The Maski inscription was discovered in 1915 by British gold mining engineer C. Beadon. It was carved on a rock face inside a cave. It is one of the first inscriptions from the time of the Mauryan emperor with his name clearly mentioned along with his royal title "Devanampriya" (Beloved of the Gods). The mention of the title with Ashoka's name solved a long-standing dispute that the title "Devanampriya" was indeed used for Ashoka. It was written in the Prakrit language and Brahmi script and proved that Ashoka was committed to non-violence.

Archaeologists from India, the United States and Canada have dug up new evidence of humanity thriving in a small town in Karnataka. This comes 110 years after the famous Maski inscription about Ashoka was unearthed from the region.

110 years after Maski inscription, 4,000-year-old human settlement found in Karnataka town

An IndiGo flight carrying 191 passengers en route to Goa from Delhi made an emergency landing in Mumbai on Wednesday night following a technical snag detected mid-air. Before making an emergency landing at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) of Mumbai, Maharashtra, the pilot of the aircraft declared ‘PAN PAN PAN’ due to a malfunction in engine number 1.&nbsp;Through this article, we will try to understand what the ‘PAN PAN PAN’ call is in the aviation sector and how it is different from the ‘Mayday call’ during a flight emergency.&nbsp;<h3>What is the ‘PAN PAN PAN’ call? Why did the pilot say that?</h3>A PAN alert is a standard international radio urgency signal used not only by aviation pilots during a technical snag but also by mariners to indicate a non-life-threatening emergency that requires immediate attention. In the aviation sector, pilots use this alert signal only when they discover serious technical issues in flights that don't pose an immediate threat to life or the aircraft but require quick attention.&nbsp;This call signal is given when a flight has a partial engine failure, low fuel, medical emergencies on board, or any non-critical mechanical failure, among others.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-accident-averted-indigo-plane-makes-emergency-landing-in-mumbai-here-s-why-pilot-issued-pan-pan-pan-code-1752731375898">Another accident averted? IndiGo plane makes emergency landing in Mumbai</a><h3>How is a 'PAN' call different from a 'Mayday call'?</h3>Basically, the PAN call is one level below a 'Mayday call,' which indicates a major but not immediate threat. The 'Mayday call' is given when there is engine failure, fire, or any accident that will jeopardise the safety and integrity of the aircraft. It is transmitted via radio to alert Air Traffic Control (ATC) or other vessels nearby.&nbsp;As per the standard practice, the calls are repeated thrice to ensure clarity and immediate recognition and reduce the risk of miscommunication for immediate support. During this distress, after mayday is repeated three times, all the relevant information is sent to the potential rescuers, who would need to know the nature of the emergency, location or last known location, fuel remaining, current weather, what type of help is needed, and the number of people in danger.

This alert, by airline pilots or mariners, is given only when they discover serious technical issues in flights or ships that do not pose an immediate threat to life or the aircraft but require quick attention. 

An IndiGo flight carrying 191 passengers en route to Goa from Delhi made an emergency landing in Mumbai on Wednesday night following a technical snag detected mid-air. Before making an emergency landing at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) of Mumbai, Maharashtra, the pilot of the aircraft declared ‘PAN PAN PAN’ due to a malfunction in engine number 1. Through this article, we will try to understand what the ‘PAN PAN PAN’ call is in the aviation sector and how it is different from the ‘Mayday call’ during a flight emergency. What is the ‘PAN PAN PAN’ call? Why did the pilot say that? A PAN alert is a standard international radio urgency signal used not only by aviation pilots during a technical snag but also by mariners to indicate a non-life-threatening emergency that requires immediate attention. In the aviation sector, pilots use this alert signal only when they discover serious technical issues in flights that don't pose an immediate threat to life or the aircraft but require quick attention. This call signal is given when a flight has a partial engine failure, low fuel, medical emergencies on board, or any non-critical mechanical failure, among others. Also read: Another accident averted? IndiGo plane makes emergency landing in Mumbai How is a 'PAN' call different from a 'Mayday call'? Basically, the PAN call is one level below a 'Mayday call,' which indicates a major but not immediate threat. The 'Mayday call' is given when there is engine failure, fire, or any accident that will jeopardise the safety and integrity of the aircraft. It is transmitted via radio to alert Air Traffic Control (ATC) or other vessels nearby. As per the standard practice, the calls are repeated thrice to ensure clarity and immediate recognition and reduce the risk of miscommunication for immediate support. During this distress, after mayday is repeated three times, all the relevant information is sent to the potential rescuers, who would need to know the nature of the emergency, location or last known location, fuel remaining, current weather, what type of help is needed, and the number of people in danger.

This alert, by airline pilots or mariners, is given only when they discover serious technical issues in flights or ships that don't pose an immediate threat to life or the aircraft but require quick attention.&nbsp;

Goa-bound IndiGo flight pilot issued ‘PAN PAN PAN’ call before landing: What it means

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the&nbsp;Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives. In a status report submitted to the High Court, the Congress-led government said the IPL franchise "unilaterally" posted messages on social media calling cricket fans to join the celebratory event of its maiden IPL victory. RCB, the report said, announced that entry was free in the Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulting in the swelling of the crowd to unmanageable numbers outside the gates of the iconic cricket ground. It also pointed out that RCB also posted a video by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli to draw the fans to its festivities.&nbsp;"On 04.06.2025, the RCB, unilaterally and without consultation/ permission from the Bangalore City Police, posted a photo at 7: 01 a.m on the official RCB handle on social media (Instagram, Facebook, "X") informing that there is free entry for people and inviting the public to participate in the Victory Parade, which would commence at Vidhana Soudha and conclude at Chinnaswamy Stadium. A second post on Social Media was made by RCB at 8:00 a.m. reiterating this information. Subsequently, on 04.06.2025, at 8:55 am, the RCB shared a video clip of Virat Kohli, on RCB's official handle @ @rcbtweets on X, in which he stated that the team intended to celebrate this victory with the people of Bengaluru city and RCB fans on 04.06.2025 in Bengaluru. Thereafter, RCB made one more post at 3:14 p.m. on 04.06.2024, announcing a Victory Parade to be held from Vidhana Soudha to the Chinnaswamy Stadium from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, stating that this victory parade would be followed by celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium," the report said.&nbsp;The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB.&nbsp;"This post mentioned, for the first and only time, that free passes (limited entry) were available on shop.royalchallengers.com, and until this point, there had been no information regarding the disbursement of passes, implying that the event was open to all based on RCB's prior posts. The posts on RCB's official social media handles garnered immense engagement online ( with the first post receiving approximately 16 lakh views, the second post receiving approximately 4.26 lakh views, the third post receiving approximately 7.6 lakh views, and the fourth post receiving approximately 17 lakh views). Copies of these posts/announcements made by RCB on Social Media are produced herewith as Document No. 4 series (pg 56-61). This led to a public gathering of immense proportions, exceeding 3,00,000 individuals," it further added.&nbsp;The report said the turnout was far more than expected. It said the event organizers spread confusion by relaying messages at around 3.14 pm on the day of the incident that passes were required for entry, contradicting their earlier statements. "Mismanagement at the entry gates and delayed openings led to a stampede, resulting in injuries to seven police personnel. To prevent further unrest, the police permitted a restricted version of the event to proceed under controlled conditions," it added.&nbsp;Meanwhile,&nbsp;Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said today that the government wasn't trying to play a blame game. He said strict action will be taken against those responsible.&nbsp;"This is not a blame game here. If there has been some mishandling of the situation, we will take action... Since so many people died, we have to wait for the report before coming to any conclusion," he said.

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives.

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives. In a status report submitted to the High Court, the Congress-led government said the IPL franchise "unilaterally" posted messages on social media calling cricket fans to join the celebratory event of its maiden IPL victory. RCB, the report said, announced that entry was free in the Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulting in the swelling of the crowd to unmanageable numbers outside the gates of the iconic cricket ground. It also pointed out that RCB also posted a video by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli to draw the fans to its festivities. "On 04.06.2025, the RCB, unilaterally and without consultation/ permission from the Bangalore City Police, posted a photo at 7: 01 a.m on the official RCB handle on social media (Instagram, Facebook, "X") informing that there is free entry for people and inviting the public to participate in the Victory Parade, which would commence at Vidhana Soudha and conclude at Chinnaswamy Stadium. A second post on Social Media was made by RCB at 8:00 a.m. reiterating this information. Subsequently, on 04.06.2025, at 8:55 am, the RCB shared a video clip of Virat Kohli, on RCB's official handle @ @rcbtweets on X, in which he stated that the team intended to celebrate this victory with the people of Bengaluru city and RCB fans on 04.06.2025 in Bengaluru. Thereafter, RCB made one more post at 3:14 p.m. on 04.06.2024, announcing a Victory Parade to be held from Vidhana Soudha to the Chinnaswamy Stadium from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, stating that this victory parade would be followed by celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium," the report said. The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB. "This post mentioned, for the first and only time, that free passes (limited entry) were available on shop.royalchallengers.com, and until this point, there had been no information regarding the disbursement of passes, implying that the event was open to all based on RCB's prior posts. The posts on RCB's official social media handles garnered immense engagement online ( with the first post receiving approximately 16 lakh views, the second post receiving approximately 4.26 lakh views, the third post receiving approximately 7.6 lakh views, and the fourth post receiving approximately 17 lakh views). Copies of these posts/announcements made by RCB on Social Media are produced herewith as Document No. 4 series (pg 56-61). This led to a public gathering of immense proportions, exceeding 3,00,000 individuals," it further added. The report said the turnout was far more than expected. It said the event organizers spread confusion by relaying messages at around 3.14 pm on the day of the incident that passes were required for entry, contradicting their earlier statements. "Mismanagement at the entry gates and delayed openings led to a stampede, resulting in injuries to seven police personnel. To prevent further unrest, the police permitted a restricted version of the event to proceed under controlled conditions," it added. Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said today that the government wasn't trying to play a blame game. He said strict action will be taken against those responsible. "This is not a blame game here. If there has been some mishandling of the situation, we will take action... Since so many people died, we have to wait for the report before coming to any conclusion," he said.

Bengaluru stampede: The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB.

Virat Kohli video, RCB X posts: Bengaluru stampede report triggers row; govt claims not 'blame game'

In a tragic incident, a nine-year-old girl studying in Class 4 in Sikar's Danta town in Rajasthan died of heart attack. Prachi Kumawat who reportedly looked healthy was opening her tiffin during break time (around 11 am) on Tuesday morning when she fell unconscious and subsequently died. It is suspected that she suffered a heart attack.&nbsp;The teachers present there immediately rushed her to a nearby hospital, where the doctors tried their best to revive her. According to the medical staff of the hospital, the girl suffered a cardiac arrest as she had no pulse, her blood pressure had fallen, and she was breathless.&nbsp;“It happened around 11 am on Tuesday. She dropped her lunchbox and collapsed spilling her food onto the floor. We were all on school grounds at the time, so we rushed her to the hospital," said Nand Kishore, the principal of Adarsh Vidya Mandir School.&nbsp;After being taken to the hospital the girl initially recovered but after a while she again suffered a similar attack, and this time the doctors could not do much.&nbsp;"Students fainting is not new and kids usually recover once we give them some water. However, her situation was different. So, we took her to the Community Health Centre (CHC) which is just about 500 metres away. There, the medical staff took care of her and she initially seemed to have recovered," Kishore said.&nbsp;“However, she had an attack again, and this time doctors gave her injections and did whatever they could, and sent off the ambulance. We don’t know if she reached the hospital or not, but the ambulance left around 12:15 pm. At about 1:30 pm, we got to know that she had passed away,” the principal added.&nbsp;What is heart attack and cardiac arrest?&nbsp;In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in cases of people succumbing to heart attack and cardiac arrest.&nbsp;A heart attack happens when a portion of the heart muscle is damaged due to blockage of coronary arteries that disrupts blood flow. While cardiac arrest is the sudden stoppage of heart function, leading to a cessation of blood circulation.&nbsp;Dr Brajesh Kumar Mishra, Consultant - Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, while speaking to WION said, "Cardiac arrest in younger individuals often stems from structural abnormalities of the heart, such as Dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic or channelopathy. These conditions are common causes of premature sudden cardiac death, particularly in teenagers and young adults."Regular screening procedures like ECG and Echocardiography in younger patients who are doing aggressive physical activities are advised by doctors to prevent such situation.&nbsp;

According to the medical staff of the hospital, the girl suffered a cardiac arrest as she had no pulse, her blood pressure had fallen, and she was breathless.

In a tragic incident, a nine-year-old girl studying in Class 4 in Sikar's Danta town in Rajasthan died of heart attack. Prachi Kumawat who reportedly looked healthy was opening her tiffin during break time (around 11 am) on Tuesday morning when she fell unconscious and subsequently died. It is suspected that she suffered a heart attack. The teachers present there immediately rushed her to a nearby hospital, where the doctors tried their best to revive her. According to the medical staff of the hospital, the girl suffered a cardiac arrest as she had no pulse, her blood pressure had fallen, and she was breathless. “It happened around 11 am on Tuesday. She dropped her lunchbox and collapsed spilling her food onto the floor. We were all on school grounds at the time, so we rushed her to the hospital," said Nand Kishore, the principal of Adarsh Vidya Mandir School. After being taken to the hospital the girl initially recovered but after a while she again suffered a similar attack, and this time the doctors could not do much. "Students fainting is not new and kids usually recover once we give them some water. However, her situation was different. So, we took her to the Community Health Centre (CHC) which is just about 500 metres away. There, the medical staff took care of her and she initially seemed to have recovered," Kishore said. “However, she had an attack again, and this time doctors gave her injections and did whatever they could, and sent off the ambulance. We don’t know if she reached the hospital or not, but the ambulance left around 12:15 pm. At about 1:30 pm, we got to know that she had passed away,” the principal added. What is heart attack and cardiac arrest? In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in cases of people succumbing to heart attack and cardiac arrest. A heart attack happens when a portion of the heart muscle is damaged due to blockage of coronary arteries that disrupts blood flow. While cardiac arrest is the sudden stoppage of heart function, leading to a cessation of blood circulation. Dr Brajesh Kumar Mishra, Consultant - Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, while speaking to WION said, "Cardiac arrest in younger individuals often stems from structural abnormalities of the heart, such as Dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic or channelopathy. These conditions are common causes of premature sudden cardiac death, particularly in teenagers and young adults." Regular screening procedures like ECG and Echocardiography in younger patients who are doing aggressive physical activities are advised by doctors to prevent such situation.

According to the medical staff of the hospital, the girl suffered a cardiac arrest as she had no pulse, her blood pressure had fallen, and she was breathless.

9-year-old girl suffers multiple heart attacks during lunch break, dies in hospital

A landslide along the Baltal route of the Amarnath Yatra in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (July 16) claimed the life of a woman pilgrim and left three others injured.All injured were immediately taken to the Baltal base camp hospital where the woman identified as Sona Bai (55), a resident of Rajasthan was declared dead on arrival, said police officials, as reported by PTI.&nbsp;Meanwhile, heavy rain in the valley has led to the Amarnath Yatra being suspended on Thursday. This is the first time that the yatra was suspended after it began on July 3 from Jammu this year.&nbsp;National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and their state counterparts, SDRF, were then immediately deployed to the accident site to evacuate people.&nbsp;“Due to the continuous rains over the last couple of days, urgent repair and maintenance works are required to be carried out on the tracks," said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Swift Rescue Amid Landslide! On 16 Jul, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> troops swiftly assisted approx 500 stranded Amarnath Yatris due to landslide at Z Morh. Provided tents, tea &amp; water while approx 3000 sheltered in nearby langars. A sick Yatri was manually stretcher-evacuated by QRTs. <a href="https://t.co/VGQXrP8J7s">pic.twitter.com/VGQXrP8J7s</a>&mdash; PRO, Defence, Guwahati (@prodefgau) <a href="https://twitter.com/prodefgau/status/1945737575580287301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A video of the mudslide along the Baltal route has also emerged, showing many pilgrims stranded on the yatra track.&nbsp;However, the authenticity of the clip could not be independently verified by WION.&nbsp;Earlier accident&nbsp;Earlier this month, 36 pilgrims, including children travelling to the Amarnath shrine had met with an accident and sustained minor injures when five busses bound for Pahalgam collided with each other at Chanderkote in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district.&nbsp;The injured pilgrims were taken to the local hospital where Deputy commissioner Ramban Ilyas Khan met them.&nbsp;According to investigations, the accident was a case of brake failure. The convoy of pilgrims had stopped for breakfast when the last bus hit the four buses.&nbsp;"Prima facie, it appeared to be a case of brake failure. After the last bus hit the stationary convoy, it triggered a chain reaction and in the process four buses were hit," said senior superintendent of police (SSP) of Ramban, Kulbir Singh.&nbsp;Amarnath Yatra&nbsp;The annual Amarnath Yatra started on Thursday (July 3, 2025), with pilgrims leaving the base camp from the twin base camps at Baltal and Nunwan.&nbsp;Tight security measures have been implemented to ensure the yatra proceeds safely. Thousands of personnel from the police, CRPF, ITBP, and other paramilitary units have been stationed for protection, with aerial monitoring also planned.&nbsp;Officials have implemented microchipped RFID smart cards to track pilgrims, as a part of security to curb the threats from Pakistan-backed terror groups.&nbsp;

A video of the mudslide along the Baltal route has also emerged, showing many pilgrims stranded on the yatra track.

A landslide along the Baltal route of the Amarnath Yatra in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (July 16) claimed the life of a woman pilgrim and left three others injured. All injured were immediately taken to the Baltal base camp hospital where the woman identified as Sona Bai (55), a resident of Rajasthan was declared dead on arrival, said police officials, as reported by PTI. Meanwhile, heavy rain in the valley has led to the Amarnath Yatra being suspended on Thursday. This is the first time that the yatra was suspended after it began on July 3 from Jammu this year. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and their state counterparts, SDRF, were then immediately deployed to the accident site to evacuate people. “Due to the continuous rains over the last couple of days, urgent repair and maintenance works are required to be carried out on the tracks," said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri.

A video of the mudslide along the Baltal route has also emerged, showing many pilgrims stranded on the yatra track.

Amarnath Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, death of woman pilgrim

After a video showing an Indian woman being arrested for alleged shoplifting in the US went viral, the US embassy in India has released a new advisory for US visa applicants. It has threatened immediate visa revocation and long-term travel bans for violating &nbsp;American laws.&nbsp;"Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues – it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future US visas," reads the advisory.&nbsp;"The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws," the embassy further wrote in the advisory.&nbsp;The viral video of the Indian woman caught shoplifting prompted the US embassy in India to release the advisory.&nbsp;The Indian tourist, identified as Avlani, can be seen in conversation with law enforcement officers in the viral clip, before being detained outside a Target store in the United States. According to the viral video released by the independent YouTube channel @BodyCamEdition, the tourist was allegedly caught trying to shoplift items worth $1000.&nbsp;In the viral video, the woman is heard pleading with officers and saying, “But if I’m paying for it, what is the harm?”&nbsp;“It would have been fine if you didn’t leave, right? You would have had that opportunity to pay. But because you left the store at that point, you chose to not pay for it, and we can’t go back," an officer can be heard replying.

The incident comes after an Indian student was detained at an airport in the US last month and deported. A warning was issued by the embassy regarding illegal entry in the US after the incident.&nbsp;Amid broader enforcement direction under the Trump administration’s immigration policy, over 1.42 lakh individuals have been deported from the US since January.

The Indian tourist can be seen in conversation with law enforcement officers in the viral clip, before being detained outside a Target store in the United States.

After a video showing an Indian woman being arrested for alleged shoplifting in the US went viral, the US embassy in India has released a new advisory for US visa applicants. It has threatened immediate visa revocation and long-term travel bans for violating American laws. "Committing assault, theft, or burglary in the United States won’t just cause you legal issues – it could lead to your visa being revoked and make you ineligible for future US visas," reads the advisory. "The United States values law and order and expects foreign visitors to follow all US laws," the embassy further wrote in the advisory. The viral video of the Indian woman caught shoplifting prompted the US embassy in India to release the advisory. The Indian tourist, identified as Avlani, can be seen in conversation with law enforcement officers in the viral clip, before being detained outside a Target store in the United States. According to the viral video released by the independent YouTube channel @BodyCamEdition, the tourist was allegedly caught trying to shoplift items worth $1000. In the viral video, the woman is heard pleading with officers and saying, “But if I’m paying for it, what is the harm?” “It would have been fine if you didn’t leave, right? You would have had that opportunity to pay. But because you left the store at that point, you chose to not pay for it, and we can’t go back," an officer can be heard replying.

The Indian tourist can be seen in conversation with law enforcement officers in the viral clip, before being detained outside a Target store in the United States.

Indian woman caught shoplifting: US embassy issues stark warning says, 'It could lead to your…'

An IndiGo flight en route to Goa from New Delhi had to make an emergency landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Wednesday night after a mid-air technical snag was detected. The flight, 6E 6271, with an Airbus A320neo aircraft carrying 191 passengers and crew members, was originally scheduled to land at Manohar International Airport in Goa. However, for a precautionary measure, it was diverted to Mumbai, the CSMIA said in an official statement.The flight took off from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport to Goa Airport when a mid-air technical snag prompted an emergency landing in Mumbai. The flight landed safely at 9:52 pm.“Following the diversion of a Delhi-Goa flight due to a technical snag, a full emergency was declared at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (CSMIA) at 21:35 hours on 16 July 2025. The flight landed safely at 21:52 hours. The full emergency status was withdrawn at 21:57 hours,” the CSMIA confirmed, news agency IANS reported.Meanwhile, all passengers safely landed and were assisted by terminal staff. The airport authorities also assured of no impact on overall operations and added that the safety of passengers would be their top priority. “There has been no impact on overall airport operations. At CSMIA, safety always remains our highest priority,” the airport added.“An alternative aircraft has been arranged for completing the journey, which will depart shortly with the customers. We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers due to this unforeseen situation. At IndiGo, the safety and security of the customers, crew, and aircraft are of utmost importance,” the spokesperson said.In addition, all passengers of the flight were reported to be safe.<h3>What did the pilot say before the emergency landing?</h3>According to Mumbai airport officials, the incident occurred when the IndiGo flight, 6E 6271, was flying around 100 nautical miles north of Bhubaneswar, HT reported.Requesting anonymity during the technical snag, one of the officials said, "The pilot declared ‘PAN PAN PAN’ (an urgent message indicating a non-life-threatening emergency) due to a malfunction in engine number 1).”&nbsp;

The IndiGo flight, 6E 6271, with an Airbus A320neo aircraft carrying 191 passengers, landed at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Wednesday night at 21:52 hours.

An IndiGo flight en route to Goa from New Delhi had to make an emergency landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Wednesday night after a mid-air technical snag was detected. The flight, 6E 6271, with an Airbus A320neo aircraft carrying 191 passengers and crew members, was originally scheduled to land at Manohar International Airport in Goa. However, for a precautionary measure, it was diverted to Mumbai, the CSMIA said in an official statement. The flight took off from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport to Goa Airport when a mid-air technical snag prompted an emergency landing in Mumbai. The flight landed safely at 9:52 pm. “Following the diversion of a Delhi-Goa flight due to a technical snag, a full emergency was declared at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (CSMIA) at 21:35 hours on 16 July 2025. The flight landed safely at 21:52 hours. The full emergency status was withdrawn at 21:57 hours,” the CSMIA confirmed, news agency IANS reported. Meanwhile, all passengers safely landed and were assisted by terminal staff. The airport authorities also assured of no impact on overall operations and added that the safety of passengers would be their top priority. “There has been no impact on overall airport operations. At CSMIA, safety always remains our highest priority,” the airport added. “An alternative aircraft has been arranged for completing the journey, which will depart shortly with the customers. We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers due to this unforeseen situation. At IndiGo, the safety and security of the customers, crew, and aircraft are of utmost importance,” the spokesperson said. In addition, all passengers of the flight were reported to be safe. What did the pilot say before the emergency landing? According to Mumbai airport officials, the incident occurred when the IndiGo flight, 6E 6271, was flying around 100 nautical miles north of Bhubaneswar, HT reported. Requesting anonymity during the technical snag, one of the officials said, "The pilot declared ‘PAN PAN PAN’ (an urgent message indicating a non-life-threatening emergency) due to a malfunction in engine number 1).”

The IndiGo flight, 6E 6271, with an Airbus A320neo aircraft carrying 191 passengers, landed at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Wednesday night at 21:52 hours.

Another accident averted? IndiGo plane makes emergency landing in Mumbai: Here's why pilot issued 'PAN PAN PAN' code

Air India crash report: Reacting to a Western media report that claimed the captain of the crashed Air India plane had switched off the fuel switches of the aircraft seconds after takeoff, Captain CS Randhawa, the president of the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP), said on Thursday that Indian pilots are the best in the world. He also warned that he would take legal action against the media house that published the report.&nbsp;Randhawa said the AAIB probe report on the plane crash, which killed 260 people, had not mentioned that the fuel control switches were turned off because of the pilot's mistake. He condemned the article and said media houses must refrain from giving their opinion on the matter.&nbsp;"Nowhere in the report has it been mentioned that the fuel control switch was turned off due to the pilot's mistake. I condemn the article by the Wall Street Journal. They said it was the pilot's mistake. They have not read the report properly, and we will take action against them through FIP. We had issued a press statement yesterday that no channel, commentator, or president of any agency should give such an opinion that has no basis...Indian pilots are among the best in the world. I did not give my opinion to the Wall Street Journal, which had approached me as well, because I am against this American media. They are deliberately giving their own opinion, their own views from this report, while there is nothing like this in the report. So I very strongly condemn this report of the Wall Street Journal, and we will take action on it," he said.&nbsp;The report, citing cockpit recording, claimed that the captain of the ill-fated flight had turned off the switches that controlled fuel flowing to the plane's engines. The Wall Street Journal report cited people familiar with US officials' early assessment of evidence uncovered in the investigation.&nbsp;The recording suggested that the first officer, who was flying the Boeing aircraft, asked the more experienced captain why he moved the switches to the "cutoff" position, it said.&nbsp;AAIB had also mentioned the conversation in the cockpit seconds before the crash. However, it refrained from concluding who said what.&nbsp;The two pilots involved were Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder, who had total flying experience of 15,638 hours and 3,403 hours, respectively.

Captain CS Randhawa, the president of the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP), said on Thursday that Indian pilots are the best in the world.

Air India crash report: Reacting to a Western media report that claimed the captain of the crashed Air India plane had switched off the fuel switches of the aircraft seconds after takeoff, Captain CS Randhawa, the president of the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP), said on Thursday that Indian pilots are the best in the world. He also warned that he would take legal action against the media house that published the report. Randhawa said the AAIB probe report on the plane crash, which killed 260 people, had not mentioned that the fuel control switches were turned off because of the pilot's mistake. He condemned the article and said media houses must refrain from giving their opinion on the matter. "Nowhere in the report has it been mentioned that the fuel control switch was turned off due to the pilot's mistake. I condemn the article by the Wall Street Journal. They said it was the pilot's mistake. They have not read the report properly, and we will take action against them through FIP. We had issued a press statement yesterday that no channel, commentator, or president of any agency should give such an opinion that has no basis...Indian pilots are among the best in the world. I did not give my opinion to the Wall Street Journal, which had approached me as well, because I am against this American media. They are deliberately giving their own opinion, their own views from this report, while there is nothing like this in the report. So I very strongly condemn this report of the Wall Street Journal, and we will take action on it," he said. The report, citing cockpit recording, claimed that the captain of the ill-fated flight had turned off the switches that controlled fuel flowing to the plane's engines. The Wall Street Journal report cited people familiar with US officials' early assessment of evidence uncovered in the investigation. The recording suggested that the first officer, who was flying the Boeing aircraft, asked the more experienced captain why he moved the switches to the "cutoff" position, it said. AAIB had also mentioned the conversation in the cockpit seconds before the crash. However, it refrained from concluding who said what. The two pilots involved were Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder, who had total flying experience of 15,638 hours and 3,403 hours, respectively.

Air India crash: The AAIB probe report on the plane crash, which killed 260 people, had not mentioned that the fuel control switches were turned off because of the pilot's mistake.

Air India crash: Pilots' body slams report claiming captain turned off fuel switches

After the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya was indefinitely postponed by Yemeni authorities on Tuesday (July15), the brother of the victim said that they will continue to seek retribution, or execution of Priya, despite the family being under immense pressure from different corners to reconcile. The execution was slated to happen on Wednesday (July 16), but the order postponing the execution had surfaced on Tuesday.&nbsp;Abdelfattah Mahdi, brother Talal Abdo Mahdi &nbsp;took to social media platform Facebook and expressed in Arabaci about his despleasure over the postponement of Nimisha's execution.&nbsp;“What is achieved and heard today from mediation and attempts for peace is nothing new or surprising. Throughout our years, there have been hidden pursuits and efforts to mediate. This is normal and expected...But the pressure has not changed anything in us. Our demand is retribution, nothing else,” wrote Abdelfattah, as confirmed by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;Those who are closely associated with the case are of the view that this temporary postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priya's execution in Yemen remains very high.&nbsp;Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades and has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha told WION, "Getting a temporary postponement of execution does not mean that we have all the time in the world. The execution could happen even tomorrow. The victim's family would not keep quiet; they will protest, and the Yemeni authorities will be forced to take action."&nbsp;Meanwhile, members of the India-based Nimisha Priya International Action Council maintain that efforts are on to reach out to the victim's family to seek pardon and to offer them blood money.&nbsp;Nimisha Priya's Case&nbsp;Nimisha, who hails from Kerala's Palakkad district went to Yemen in 2008 and worked as a nurse in a Government-run hospital in Sana'a. In a few months she quit her job and started her own clinic with another woman and Yemeni national Talal, who later subjected her to physical and mental abuse and confiscated her passport, according to Nimisha's India-based lawyer Subhash Chandan.&nbsp;In a desperate bid to escape the abuse and flee, Priya and the Yemeni woman allegedly drugged Talal, which reportedly &nbsp;led to his death. Later, &nbsp;Talal's was found by the Yemeni authorities in a mutilated condition that complicated the case further.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Those closely associated with the case are of the view that this temporary postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priyas execution in Yemen remains very high.

After the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya was indefinitely postponed by Yemeni authorities on Tuesday (July15), the brother of the victim said that they will continue to seek retribution, or execution of Priya, despite the family being under immense pressure from different corners to reconcile. The execution was slated to happen on Wednesday (July 16), but the order postponing the execution had surfaced on Tuesday. Abdelfattah Mahdi, brother Talal Abdo Mahdi took to social media platform Facebook and expressed in Arabaci about his despleasure over the postponement of Nimisha's execution. “What is achieved and heard today from mediation and attempts for peace is nothing new or surprising. Throughout our years, there have been hidden pursuits and efforts to mediate. This is normal and expected...But the pressure has not changed anything in us. Our demand is retribution, nothing else,” wrote Abdelfattah, as confirmed by Hindustan Times. Those who are closely associated with the case are of the view that this temporary postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priya's execution in Yemen remains very high. Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades and has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha told WION, "Getting a temporary postponement of execution does not mean that we have all the time in the world. The execution could happen even tomorrow. The victim's family would not keep quiet; they will protest, and the Yemeni authorities will be forced to take action." Meanwhile, members of the India-based Nimisha Priya International Action Council maintain that efforts are on to reach out to the victim's family to seek pardon and to offer them blood money. Nimisha Priya's Case Nimisha, who hails from Kerala's Palakkad district went to Yemen in 2008 and worked as a nurse in a Government-run hospital in Sana'a. In a few months she quit her job and started her own clinic with another woman and Yemeni national Talal, who later subjected her to physical and mental abuse and confiscated her passport, according to Nimisha's India-based lawyer Subhash Chandan. In a desperate bid to escape the abuse and flee, Priya and the Yemeni woman allegedly drugged Talal, which reportedly led to his death. Later, Talal's was found by the Yemeni authorities in a mutilated condition that complicated the case further.

Those closely associated with the case are of the view that this temporary postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priya's execution in Yemen remains very high.

Nimisha Priya execution in Yemen still possible? Brother of victim says 'retribution, nothing else'

When ancient warriors spoke of Gandiva, Lord Arjuna's divine bow from the Mahabharata, they praised its ability to strike enemies from impossible distances. Today, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has borrowed this legendary name for its most advanced air-to-air missile - the Astra Mk3, nicknamed 'Gandiva'. But this is not just about mythology meeting modern warfare. This is about India taking a giant leap from being a weapons buyer to becoming a weapons maker that the world watches with respect.<h2>The Journey from Dependence to Independence</h2>For decades, the Indian Air Force relied heavily on foreign missiles to defend our skies. Russian R-77s, French MICAs, and Israeli Pythons formed the backbone of our air-to-air combat capability. But imagine if during a crisis, the supply chain got cut off or spare parts became unavailable? This uncomfortable reality pushed India to develop its own family of air-to-air missiles - the Astra series.The story of Astra began in the early 1990s when DRDO scientists at Hyderabad's Defence Research and Development Laboratory started dreaming of an indigenous beyond-visual-range missile. What began as a small project with internal funding has now become one of India's most successful defence programs, with three generations of missiles that can compete with the best in the world.&nbsp;What is a Beyond Visual Range Missile?A Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile is a smart weapon that can hunt down and destroy enemy aircraft from extremely long distances - often 50 to 300 kilometers away. The pilot firing it cannot see the target with naked eyes, but the missile uses its own radar to track and hit the enemy plane automatically.<h3>Astra Mk1: The Reliable Workhorse</h3>The first member of the Astra family, the Mk1, is already serving with the Indian Air Force and Navy. This 3.6-meter-long missile weighs 154 kg and can hit targets at ranges over 100 km. Think of it as a smart, self-guided arrow that can chase down enemy aircraft even when they try to escape.&nbsp;What makes the Astra Mk1 special is its "fire and forget" capability. Once launched from a fighter jet like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI or the indigenous Tejas, the missile uses its own radar to hunt down the target. The missile uses mid-course inertial guidance with terminal active radar homing, meaning it can course-correct itself during flight and doesn't need constant guidance from the launching aircraft.&nbsp;The Mk1 has been tested extensively and was cleared for full production in 2024. The Ministry of Defence has already signed a contract worth ₹2,971 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited to produce over 350 missiles, with each missile costing around ₹7-8 crore. This might sound expensive, but it's actually much cheaper than importing equivalent foreign missiles.&nbsp;<h3>Astra Mk2: The Range Extender</h3>While the Mk1 was still in development, DRDO scientists were already working on its bigger brother - the Astra Mk2. This missile addresses one key limitation of the Mk1: range. The Mk2 uses a dual-pulse rocket motor to extend its range to 160 km, making it significantly more threatening to enemy aircraft.&nbsp;The dual-pulse technology is like having a car with two fuel tanks that can be used at different times. The first pulse fires during launch, giving the missile initial velocity, while the second pulse can be ignited later during flight to maintain speed and extend range. This technology dramatically increases what military experts call the "no-escape zone" - the area where an enemy aircraft cannot outrun or outmaneuver the missile.&nbsp;The Mk2 is slightly bigger than the Mk1, with a diameter of 190mm compared to 178mm, and weighs about 175 kg. Despite being heavier, it outperforms the Chinese PL-15E export variant, which weighs 200kg but has a shorter range of 145km.The IAF has already released footage of an Astra Mk2 being launched from a Su-30MKI during trials, and the missile is expected to enter service soon. This will give India a significant advantage in air combat, as most enemy aircraft will be within striking distance before they can even detect our fighters.<h2>Astra Mk3 'Gandiva': The Game Changer</h2>Now comes the star of the show - the Astra Mk3, which truly lives up to its mythological name. This missile represents a quantum leap in Indian missile technology and puts India in the elite club of nations that can produce ramjet-powered air-to-air missiles.Unlike its predecessors that use rocket motors, the Gandiva is powered by a Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) engine. This is like the difference between a regular car and a jet engine-powered vehicle. The ramjet sucks in air from the atmosphere and mixes it with fuel to create thrust, allowing the missile to fly farther and faster than conventional rockets.&nbsp;The numbers are impressive: the Gandiva can strike targets at over 300 kilometers - that's like shooting from Delhi and hitting a target in Chandigarh. It can fly at speeds of up to Mach 4.5, which is more than four times the speed of sound. At such speeds, even the most advanced enemy aircraft have very little time to react or take evasive action.&nbsp;But range and speed are just part of the story. The Gandiva is being designed to counter specific threats like China's J-20 stealth fighter and their long-range PL-15 missile. The missile's extended range means that Indian fighters can potentially shoot down enemy aircraft before they can even fire their own weapons.&nbsp;<h3>The Brain Behind the Brawn</h3>What makes the Astra Mk3 truly special is its "brain" - the guidance system. The current developmental version uses an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker based on Gallium Arsenide technology. But for the production version, DRDO plans to upgrade to an even more advanced seeker using Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology.&nbsp;Why is this important? Think of the seeker as the missile's eyes and brain combined. The GaN technology offers better performance in high temperatures, uses less power, and most importantly, is much more resistant to electronic jamming. In modern warfare, enemies try to confuse missiles using electronic countermeasures, but the GaN seeker can see through these tricks and stay locked onto its target.&nbsp;This technological upgrade is made possible by India's growing capabilities in semiconductor technology under the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiative. We're not just building missiles; we're building the entire technological ecosystem needed to support them.&nbsp;Testing and Timeline&nbsp;The Astra Mk3 has already achieved significant milestones. In December 2024, DRDO successfully tested the SFDR propulsion system at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha. Currently, the missile is undergoing captive carriage trials, where it's mounted on a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet to test its integration with the aircraft's systems.&nbsp;The next phase involves live-fire trials, where the missile will be actually launched at targets to prove its effectiveness. DRDO is targeting full-scale production by 2030-2031, which means the Gandiva could be protecting Indian skies within this decade.&nbsp;Flying on Indian Wings: Astra's Aircraft Integration&nbsp;But having advanced missiles is only half the battle - they need to work seamlessly with our aircraft. The Astra missile family isn't just about the weapons themselves - it's about creating a complete combat ecosystem for Indian fighter aircraft. The Astra Mk1 has already proven its worth, successfully test-fired from the indigenous Tejas fighter in March 2025, hitting targets at over 100 kilometers.&nbsp;The integration story is particularly exciting for the Tejas program. The new Tejas Mk1A variant, currently being delivered to the IAF, comes standard with Astra missile capability. In May 2025, aviation enthusiasts spotted a Tejas Mk1A prototype flying with two Astra Mk1 missiles and ASRAAM missiles, showcasing India's growing self-reliance in both aircraft and weapons.&nbsp;This isn't just about one aircraft. The Astra series is designed to arm the entire IAF fleet - from the heavy-duty Su-30MKI to the lightweight Tejas, and potentially the Rafale fighters. This universal compatibility means that whether it's a homegrown Tejas or an imported Sukhoi, Indian pilots will have the same advanced missile technology at their disposal.&nbsp;Strategic ImplicationsThe Astra series represents more than just new weapons; it represents a fundamental shift in how India approaches defence. Instead of depending on foreign suppliers, we're building our own capabilities. This has several advantages:Economic Benefits: The money spent on these missiles stays in India, creating jobs and building industrial capacity. The technology developed for Astra can be used in other projects, creating a multiplier effect.&nbsp;Strategic Independence: We don't have to worry about spare parts, technology transfer restrictions, or political pressure from supplier countries. During conflicts, we can produce more missiles as needed.&nbsp;Export Potential: Countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia have shown interest in the Astra missiles. Brazil is considering the Astra Mk1 for its Gripen fighters. This can bring in foreign exchange and establish India as a reliable defence partner.&nbsp;Technological Advancement: The technologies developed for Astra - from advanced seekers to ramjet engines - have applications in other defence and civilian projects.&nbsp;The Road AheadThe Astra series will eventually replace all foreign air-to-air missiles in Indian service. The Mk1 is already being integrated with the entire fighter fleet except the Mirage 2000. The Mk2 will provide extended range capability, while the Mk3 will give India a decisive edge in long-range air combat.&nbsp;But challenges remain. Miniaturizing ramjet technology is complex, and ensuring reliability in combat conditions requires extensive testing. The cost of development is high, and the timeline is ambitious.&nbsp;However, the progress so far gives reason for optimism. From a country that couldn't produce basic components three decades ago, India has developed missiles that can compete with the best in the world. The Astra program shows that with sustained effort, proper funding, and clear vision, India can achieve technological independence in critical areas.&nbsp;Conclusion&nbsp;The journey from the first Astra to the advanced Gandiva mirrors India's own transformation from a technology importer to a technology creator. Just as the mythological Gandiva gave Arjuna the power to protect dharma, the modern Gandiva will give the Indian Air Force the power to protect our skies.&nbsp;When the Astra Mk3 enters service in the early 2030s, it will not just be another weapon in India's arsenal. It will be a symbol of how far we've come and a promise of where we're going. In a world where technological superiority often determines military outcomes, the Astra series ensures that India will not just be a participant in the game - we'll be setting the rules.&nbsp;The sky is no longer the limit for Indian defence technology. It's just the beginning.

For decades, the Indian Air Force relied heavily on foreign missiles to defend our skies. Russian R-77s, French MICAs, and Israeli Pythons formed the backbone of our air-to-air combat capability. But imagine if during a crisis, the supply chain got cut off? 

When ancient warriors spoke of Gandiva, Lord Arjuna's divine bow from the Mahabharata, they praised its ability to strike enemies from impossible distances. Today, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has borrowed this legendary name for its most advanced air-to-air missile - the Astra Mk3, nicknamed 'Gandiva'. But this is not just about mythology meeting modern warfare. This is about India taking a giant leap from being a weapons buyer to becoming a weapons maker that the world watches with respect. The Journey from Dependence to Independence For decades, the Indian Air Force relied heavily on foreign missiles to defend our skies. Russian R-77s, French MICAs, and Israeli Pythons formed the backbone of our air-to-air combat capability. But imagine if during a crisis, the supply chain got cut off or spare parts became unavailable? This uncomfortable reality pushed India to develop its own family of air-to-air missiles - the Astra series. The story of Astra began in the early 1990s when DRDO scientists at Hyderabad's Defence Research and Development Laboratory started dreaming of an indigenous beyond-visual-range missile. What began as a small project with internal funding has now become one of India's most successful defence programs, with three generations of missiles that can compete with the best in the world. What is a Beyond Visual Range Missile? A Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile is a smart weapon that can hunt down and destroy enemy aircraft from extremely long distances - often 50 to 300 kilometers away. The pilot firing it cannot see the target with naked eyes, but the missile uses its own radar to track and hit the enemy plane automatically. Astra Mk1: The Reliable Workhorse The first member of the Astra family, the Mk1, is already serving with the Indian Air Force and Navy. This 3.6-meter-long missile weighs 154 kg and can hit targets at ranges over 100 km. Think of it as a smart, self-guided arrow that can chase down enemy aircraft even when they try to escape. What makes the Astra Mk1 special is its "fire and forget" capability. Once launched from a fighter jet like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI or the indigenous Tejas, the missile uses its own radar to hunt down the target. The missile uses mid-course inertial guidance with terminal active radar homing, meaning it can course-correct itself during flight and doesn't need constant guidance from the launching aircraft. The Mk1 has been tested extensively and was cleared for full production in 2024. The Ministry of Defence has already signed a contract worth ₹2,971 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited to produce over 350 missiles, with each missile costing around ₹7-8 crore. This might sound expensive, but it's actually much cheaper than importing equivalent foreign missiles. Astra Mk2: The Range Extender While the Mk1 was still in development, DRDO scientists were already working on its bigger brother - the Astra Mk2. This missile addresses one key limitation of the Mk1: range. The Mk2 uses a dual-pulse rocket motor to extend its range to 160 km, making it significantly more threatening to enemy aircraft. The dual-pulse technology is like having a car with two fuel tanks that can be used at different times. The first pulse fires during launch, giving the missile initial velocity, while the second pulse can be ignited later during flight to maintain speed and extend range. This technology dramatically increases what military experts call the "no-escape zone" - the area where an enemy aircraft cannot outrun or outmaneuver the missile. The Mk2 is slightly bigger than the Mk1, with a diameter of 190mm compared to 178mm, and weighs about 175 kg. Despite being heavier, it outperforms the Chinese PL-15E export variant, which weighs 200kg but has a shorter range of 145km. The IAF has already released footage of an Astra Mk2 being launched from a Su-30MKI during trials, and the missile is expected to enter service soon. This will give India a significant advantage in air combat, as most enemy aircraft will be within striking distance before they can even detect our fighters. Astra Mk3 'Gandiva': The Game Changer Now comes the star of the show - the Astra Mk3, which truly lives up to its mythological name. This missile represents a quantum leap in Indian missile technology and puts India in the elite club of nations that can produce ramjet-powered air-to-air missiles. Unlike its predecessors that use rocket motors, the Gandiva is powered by a Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) engine. This is like the difference between a regular car and a jet engine-powered vehicle. The ramjet sucks in air from the atmosphere and mixes it with fuel to create thrust, allowing the missile to fly farther and faster than conventional rockets. The numbers are impressive: the Gandiva can strike targets at over 300 kilometers - that's like shooting from Delhi and hitting a target in Chandigarh. It can fly at speeds of up to Mach 4.5, which is more than four times the speed of sound. At such speeds, even the most advanced enemy aircraft have very little time to react or take evasive action. But range and speed are just part of the story. The Gandiva is being designed to counter specific threats like China's J-20 stealth fighter and their long-range PL-15 missile. The missile's extended range means that Indian fighters can potentially shoot down enemy aircraft before they can even fire their own weapons. The Brain Behind the Brawn What makes the Astra Mk3 truly special is its "brain" - the guidance system. The current developmental version uses an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker based on Gallium Arsenide technology. But for the production version, DRDO plans to upgrade to an even more advanced seeker using Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology. Why is this important? Think of the seeker as the missile's eyes and brain combined. The GaN technology offers better performance in high temperatures, uses less power, and most importantly, is much more resistant to electronic jamming. In modern warfare, enemies try to confuse missiles using electronic countermeasures, but the GaN seeker can see through these tricks and stay locked onto its target. This technological upgrade is made possible by India's growing capabilities in semiconductor technology under the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiative. We're not just building missiles; we're building the entire technological ecosystem needed to support them. Testing and Timeline The Astra Mk3 has already achieved significant milestones. In December 2024, DRDO successfully tested the SFDR propulsion system at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha. Currently, the missile is undergoing captive carriage trials, where it's mounted on a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet to test its integration with the aircraft's systems. The next phase involves live-fire trials, where the missile will be actually launched at targets to prove its effectiveness. DRDO is targeting full-scale production by 2030-2031, which means the Gandiva could be protecting Indian skies within this decade. Flying on Indian Wings: Astra's Aircraft Integration But having advanced missiles is only half the battle - they need to work seamlessly with our aircraft. The Astra missile family isn't just about the weapons themselves - it's about creating a complete combat ecosystem for Indian fighter aircraft. The Astra Mk1 has already proven its worth, successfully test-fired from the indigenous Tejas fighter in March 2025, hitting targets at over 100 kilometers. The integration story is particularly exciting for the Tejas program. The new Tejas Mk1A variant, currently being delivered to the IAF, comes standard with Astra missile capability. In May 2025, aviation enthusiasts spotted a Tejas Mk1A prototype flying with two Astra Mk1 missiles and ASRAAM missiles, showcasing India's growing self-reliance in both aircraft and weapons. This isn't just about one aircraft. The Astra series is designed to arm the entire IAF fleet - from the heavy-duty Su-30MKI to the lightweight Tejas, and potentially the Rafale fighters. This universal compatibility means that whether it's a homegrown Tejas or an imported Sukhoi, Indian pilots will have the same advanced missile technology at their disposal. Strategic Implications The Astra series represents more than just new weapons; it represents a fundamental shift in how India approaches defence. Instead of depending on foreign suppliers, we're building our own capabilities. This has several advantages: Economic Benefits: The money spent on these missiles stays in India, creating jobs and building industrial capacity. The technology developed for Astra can be used in other projects, creating a multiplier effect. Strategic Independence: We don't have to worry about spare parts, technology transfer restrictions, or political pressure from supplier countries. During conflicts, we can produce more missiles as needed. Export Potential: Countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia have shown interest in the Astra missiles. Brazil is considering the Astra Mk1 for its Gripen fighters. This can bring in foreign exchange and establish India as a reliable defence partner. Technological Advancement: The technologies developed for Astra - from advanced seekers to ramjet engines - have applications in other defence and civilian projects. The Road Ahead The Astra series will eventually replace all foreign air-to-air missiles in Indian service. The Mk1 is already being integrated with the entire fighter fleet except the Mirage 2000. The Mk2 will provide extended range capability, while the Mk3 will give India a decisive edge in long-range air combat. But challenges remain. Miniaturizing ramjet technology is complex, and ensuring reliability in combat conditions requires extensive testing. The cost of development is high, and the timeline is ambitious. However, the progress so far gives reason for optimism. From a country that couldn't produce basic components three decades ago, India has developed missiles that can compete with the best in the world. The Astra program shows that with sustained effort, proper funding, and clear vision, India can achieve technological independence in critical areas. Conclusion The journey from the first Astra to the advanced Gandiva mirrors India's own transformation from a technology importer to a technology creator. Just as the mythological Gandiva gave Arjuna the power to protect dharma, the modern Gandiva will give the Indian Air Force the power to protect our skies. When the Astra Mk3 enters service in the early 2030s, it will not just be another weapon in India's arsenal. It will be a symbol of how far we've come and a promise of where we're going. In a world where technological superiority often determines military outcomes, the Astra series ensures that India will not just be a participant in the game - we'll be setting the rules. The sky is no longer the limit for Indian defence technology. It's just the beginning.

For decades, the Indian Air Force relied heavily on foreign missiles to defend our skies. Russian R-77s, French MICAs, and Israeli Pythons formed the backbone of our air-to-air combat capability. But imagine if during a crisis, the supply chain got cut off?&nbsp;

The new Gandiva: How India's Astra MK3 brings Mahabharata magic to modern warfare

Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla reunited with his family on Wednesday at a designated facility in Houston, US, a day after returning to Earth following his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station and shared the heartwarming images of their reunion. Shukla said space flight is as “amazing” as seeing your loved ones after a long time. He got to meet his family less than 24 hours after he landed. Shukla shared the images on Instagram, showing him embracing his wife and son after being apart for over two months. “Space flight is amazing but seeing your loved ones after a long time is equally amazing. It has been 2 months since I entered quarantine. During the quarantine, family visits we had to be 8 metre apart. My little one had to be told that he had germs on his hands and that is why he could not touch his father. Coming back to Earth and holding my family back in my arms felt like home,” he wrote in the caption.&nbsp;Shukla made history as he became the first Indian to go to the International Space Station and only the second Indian to travel into space after Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Nicknamed Shux by his crewmates, Shukla returned to Earth on July 15 onboard SpaceX’s Dragon space capsule.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In the pictures shared by Shukla, his wife, Kamna, is seen embracing him with tears streaming down her face, while his son leaps into his arms and hugs him.&nbsp;“Find a loved one today and tell them that you love them. We often get busy in life and forget how important the people in our lives are. Human spaceflight missions are magical but they are made magical by the humans,” he said.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-s-homecoming-axiom-4-crew-return-after-wrapping-up-two-weeks-in-space-1752641061764/embed&nbsp;“Now that Shubhanshu has safely returned, our immediate focus will be on his rehabilitation and ensuring he smoothly readjusts to life on earth. For us, simply being reunited after this incredible journey is a celebration in itself," Kamna told PTI from Houston.&nbsp;“I am already preparing some of his favourite dishes, knowing how much he must have missed home-cooked meals during his time in space.”The couple got married in 2009. They have known each other since Class 3, when they both studied at Lucknow’s City Montessori School.Shubhanshu is also part of ISRO’s plan to launch the Gaganyaan—India’s first human space flight—in 2027.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla reunites with his family after returning from space ❤️🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/yfENxJr7ed">pic.twitter.com/yfENxJr7ed</a>&mdash; ISRO Spaceflight (@ISROSpaceflight) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISROSpaceflight/status/1945471144154583517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Fresh from a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, Shukla—now the first Indian to visit the ISS and only the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma—was greeted by his family at a designated facility in Houston, where initial medical checks were conducted before the reunion.

Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla reunited with his family on Wednesday at a designated facility in Houston, US, a day after returning to Earth following his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station and shared the heartwarming images of their reunion. Shukla said space flight is as “amazing” as seeing your loved ones after a long time. He got to meet his family less than 24 hours after he landed. Shukla shared the images on Instagram, showing him embracing his wife and son after being apart for over two months. “Space flight is amazing but seeing your loved ones after a long time is equally amazing. It has been 2 months since I entered quarantine. During the quarantine, family visits we had to be 8 metre apart. My little one had to be told that he had germs on his hands and that is why he could not touch his father. Coming back to Earth and holding my family back in my arms felt like home,” he wrote in the caption. Shukla made history as he became the first Indian to go to the International Space Station and only the second Indian to travel into space after Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Nicknamed Shux by his crewmates, Shukla returned to Earth on July 15 onboard SpaceX’s Dragon space capsule.

Fresh from a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, Shukla—now the first Indian to visit the ISS and only the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma—was greeted by his family at a designated facility in Houston, where initial medical checks were conducted before the reunion.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla reunites with family after ISS return, pics strike emotional chord

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-won-t-rule-out-firing-lousy-jerome-powell-can-us-president-even-fire-federal-reserve-chair-1752684726290">Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal&nbsp;Reserve&nbsp;chair?</a><h2>India pushes back on any rushed deal</h2>The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month.<h2>What does the US want from India?</h2>The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added.<h2>What is Trump's deal with Indonesia?</h2>Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached.<h2>India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos</h2>While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date.It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. 

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.” Also read: Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal Reserve chair? India pushes back on any rushed deal The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month. What does the US want from India? The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added. What is Trump's deal with Indonesia? Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached. India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date. It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access.&nbsp;

US-India trade deal in sight? Trump says deal could happen ‘soon’, hints it may resemble Indonesia agreement - All you need to know

In a major development, the Indian Army carried out successful trials of the indigenously developed Akash Prime air defence system at over 15,000 feet altitude in the Ladakh sector on Wednesday, giving a further boost to the indigenous defence innovation and manufacturing. The trials were carried out by the Army Air Defence in the presence of senior officials of the Defence Research and Development Organisation which has developed the system. During the trials, the surface-to-air missiles made two direct hits against very fast moving target aircraft in the very high-altitude area with a rarefied atmosphere.&nbsp;The Akash Prime system would form the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems in the Indian Army. The system also performed very well in thwarting aerial attacks by the Pakistani military using Chinese aircraft and Turkish drones during Operation Sindoor, said defence officials.&nbsp;The Akash Prime is an advanced, indigenously developed, short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is a variant of the original Akash missile system and is designed to protect vital areas and points from aerial threats.&nbsp;In comparison to its precursor, the Akash system, Akash Prime is equipped with an indigenous active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker for improved accuracy. Besides, other enhancements ensure more reliable performance under low-temperature environments at higher altitudes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Akash Prime made its first successful test flight from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, in September 2021, and the missile intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking enemy aircraft in its maiden test flight.&nbsp;Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system to protect vulnerable areas and vulnerable points from air attacks. Akash Weapon System can simultaneously engage multiple targets in group mode or autonomous mode. The weapon system has been configured on mobile platforms and is operational with the Indian Air Force (IAF) as well as the Indian Army (IA).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a significant development, Indian Army today carried out successful trials of the indigenously developed Akash Prime air defence system at over 15,000 feet altitude in the Ladakh sector. The trial were carried out by the Army Air Defence along with senior officials of the… <a href="https://t.co/6IKL8xXGP0">pic.twitter.com/6IKL8xXGP0</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1945482152658755635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Akash is a short range surface-to-air missile system to protect vulnerable areas and vulnerable points from air attacks, and can engage multiple targets simultaneously in group mode or autonomous mode. The entire weapon system has been configured on mobile platforms.

In a major development, the Indian Army carried out successful trials of the indigenously developed Akash Prime air defence system at over 15,000 feet altitude in the Ladakh sector on Wednesday, giving a further boost to the indigenous defence innovation and manufacturing. The trials were carried out by the Army Air Defence in the presence of senior officials of the Defence Research and Development Organisation which has developed the system. During the trials, the surface-to-air missiles made two direct hits against very fast moving target aircraft in the very high-altitude area with a rarefied atmosphere. The Akash Prime system would form the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems in the Indian Army. The system also performed very well in thwarting aerial attacks by the Pakistani military using Chinese aircraft and Turkish drones during Operation Sindoor, said defence officials. The Akash Prime is an advanced, indigenously developed, short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is a variant of the original Akash missile system and is designed to protect vital areas and points from aerial threats. In comparison to its precursor, the Akash system, Akash Prime is equipped with an indigenous active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker for improved accuracy. Besides, other enhancements ensure more reliable performance under low-temperature environments at higher altitudes. Akash Prime made its first successful test flight from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, in September 2021, and the missile intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking enemy aircraft in its maiden test flight. Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system to protect vulnerable areas and vulnerable points from air attacks. Akash Weapon System can simultaneously engage multiple targets in group mode or autonomous mode. The weapon system has been configured on mobile platforms and is operational with the Indian Air Force (IAF) as well as the Indian Army (IA).

Akash is a short range surface-to-air missile system to protect vulnerable areas and vulnerable points from air attacks, and can engage multiple targets simultaneously in group mode or autonomous mode. The entire weapon system has been configured on mobile platforms.

Akash Prime air defence system aces Indian Army’s high altitude trial in Ladakh sector

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (Jul 16) slammed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people. While addressing a protest rally in Kolkata, Banerjee took aim at the BJP-ruled, claiming that people were being harassed based on language, identity, and political bias. The chief minister was speaking at a protest march, where thousands of people joined.&nbsp;“The BJP calls all Bengali-speaking people Bangladeshi Rohingyas,” Banerjee said. “If someone speaks Bengali, you think you can call them Bangladeshi-Rohingya?... Bangladeshis are in Bangladesh, and Rohingyas live in Myanmar. What do we have here? Just West Bengal citizens. They have ID cards, Aadhar Cards, and PAN Cards. They work outside of West Bengal because they have skills…”&nbsp;She further said, “Is West Bengal not in India? Is it not a part of the country? There are many states where only one language is spoken. This does not mean that those people must be jailed... When Hindi speakers were ousted from Maharashtra, we were the first to raise a voice... We respect all the people from different states who live here, whether they are labourers, businessmen, shopkeepers, hawkers, or employees. We will never attack them because they are a part of us and our country. We love them. We respect every language.”&nbsp;She also alleged that the names of Bengali voters are being removed from the states. “They are removing names as the elections approach. There is the Election Commission, and we respect it. But if someone works for the BJP, then we will not let it go. They removed 30.5 lakh voters in Bihar. This is how they won in Maharashtra and Delhi. They are planning the same for Bihar. They want to do the same in Bengal, but we will fight inch by inch.”&nbsp;<h2>Why are protests being held in West Bengal?</h2>&nbsp;Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”. This comes after a series of incidents recently, including the detention of migrant workers in Odisha, eviction drives in Delhi, and a notice issued to a farmer in Cooch Behar by a foreigners’ tribunal in Assam.&nbsp;The 3-km-long route began at the College Square in central Kolkata around 1:45 pm and will terminate at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala. Nearly 1,500 police personnel have been deployed to guard the barricaded pavements and adjacent buildings. The traffic was diverted along multiple arterial roads in the central parts due to the march.&nbsp;The protests in West Bengal are being held ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to West Bengal on July 18. Similar demonstrations were held by the TMC in the district headquarters towns across the state.

Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (Jul 16) slammed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people. While addressing a protest rally in Kolkata, Banerjee took aim at the BJP-ruled, claiming that people were being harassed based on language, identity, and political bias. The chief minister was speaking at a protest march, where thousands of people joined. “The BJP calls all Bengali-speaking people Bangladeshi Rohingyas,” Banerjee said. “If someone speaks Bengali, you think you can call them Bangladeshi-Rohingya?... Bangladeshis are in Bangladesh, and Rohingyas live in Myanmar. What do we have here? Just West Bengal citizens. They have ID cards, Aadhar Cards, and PAN Cards. They work outside of West Bengal because they have skills…” She further said, “Is West Bengal not in India? Is it not a part of the country? There are many states where only one language is spoken. This does not mean that those people must be jailed... When Hindi speakers were ousted from Maharashtra, we were the first to raise a voice... We respect all the people from different states who live here, whether they are labourers, businessmen, shopkeepers, hawkers, or employees. We will never attack them because they are a part of us and our country. We love them. We respect every language.” She also alleged that the names of Bengali voters are being removed from the states. “They are removing names as the elections approach. There is the Election Commission, and we respect it. But if someone works for the BJP, then we will not let it go. They removed 30.5 lakh voters in Bihar. This is how they won in Maharashtra and Delhi. They are planning the same for Bihar. They want to do the same in Bengal, but we will fight inch by inch.” Why are protests being held in West Bengal? Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”. This comes after a series of incidents recently, including the detention of migrant workers in Odisha, eviction drives in Delhi, and a notice issued to a farmer in Cooch Behar by a foreigners’ tribunal in Assam. The 3-km-long route began at the College Square in central Kolkata around 1:45 pm and will terminate at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala. Nearly 1,500 police personnel have been deployed to guard the barricaded pavements and adjacent buildings. The traffic was diverted along multiple arterial roads in the central parts due to the march. The protests in West Bengal are being held ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to West Bengal on July 18. Similar demonstrations were held by the TMC in the district headquarters towns across the state.

Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”.

‘Is West Bengal not in India?’ Mamata Banerjee slams BJP at protest rally ahead of PM Modi’s visit to state

Odisha Police used water cannons to disperse opposition party Biju Janata Dal (BJD) workers protesting against the state government in Bhubaneswar over the death of a 20-year-old girl student who immolated herself because of alleged sexual harassment by her professor in college. The second-year B.Ed. student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College died at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar on Monday night after fighting for her life for three days. She had set herself on fire on the campus on Saturday (July 12) over alleged inaction against a professor who allegedly sexually harassed her.&nbsp;Hundreds of BJD workers carrying party flags burnt tyres on major roads in Balasore, expressing anger over the “inaction” of the government and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.There was heavy police deployment and drones were used to monitor crowd movement.Apart from Balasore town, BJD workers also held demonstrations in Jaleswar, Basta, Soro, Baliapal and Bhograi.“People are very angry over the denial of justice to the student who ultimately set herself on fire and died. We will continue the agitation till the BJP government announces a judicial probe into the incident,” said BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra.&nbsp;<h2>Arrests made in Balasore case&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The student, a second-year B.Ed student, had reportedly complained about sexual harassment by her professor, but no action was taken. The police have now arrested the college principal and the accused professor, who is also head of the education department.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/odisha-bjd-stages-massive-protest-cops-use-water-cannons-tear-gas-to-disperse-protesters-1752663527532/embed&nbsp;<h2>Odisha CM announces compensation for family</h2>&nbsp;Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a compensation of ₹20 lakh for the student’s family. He also ordered a detailed investigation into the matter to ensure all those responsible are held accountable.&nbsp;A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office said, “The CM has directed concerned officers to investigate the case thoroughly and ensure strict legal action.”&nbsp;Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati said in a post on social media platform X, “Shattered to learn of the untimely loss of a young student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College. Her passing is not just a tragedy—it is a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard our campuses.”&nbsp;<h2>Odisha bandh on Thursday&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, eight opposition parties including the Congress have called for Odisha bandh on July 17.&nbsp;Odisha Congress president Bhakta Charan Das announced that the bandh is supported by several parties, including Left-aligned groups. He accused the state government of negligence and failure to ensure women’s safety in educational institutions.&nbsp;The Odisha bandh is likely to disrupt public transport and daily services, especially in Balasore and nearby districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Student complained to multiple authorities in vain</h2>&nbsp;The student had accused her college Head of Department of harassment repeatedly and had reached out to the college principal and higher authorities, but her complaints were allegedly ignored.&nbsp;BJD chief Naveen Patnaik has criticised the state government’s handling of the case. “It is even more disturbing to think how a failed system can take someone’s life. The most painful part is that this was not an accident, but rather the result of a system that remained silent instead of helping,” Patnaik said in a post on X.&nbsp;“With great courage, she had written to the college principal, informing them about the sexual harassment she had faced. Even after being ignored by the college authorities, she did not give up. To seek justice, she reached out to the higher education minister, the chief minister’s office, and even a Union Minister. She also personally met the Balasore MP to share her plight,” Patnaik said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Police use water cannon and tear gas shells to disperse BJD workers protesting against the state government over Balasore student self-immolation case. Several BJD workers detained.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaNews</a> (Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/FI15uvfj1Y">https://t.co/FI15uvfj1Y</a> <a href="https://t.co/UtIFfdYYn1">pic.twitter.com/UtIFfdYYn1</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1945361579589165168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Security was tightened in government buildings in Bhubaneswar, including Rajiv Bhavan and Kharavela Bhavan, which are located in the vicinity of the Lok Seva Bhavan. Police Commissioner S Dev Datt Singh was present near the Lok Sabha Bhavan to oversee the security arrangements.

Odisha Police used water cannons to disperse opposition party Biju Janata Dal (BJD) workers protesting against the state government in Bhubaneswar over the death of a 20-year-old girl student who immolated herself because of alleged sexual harassment by her professor in college. The second-year B.Ed. student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College died at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar on Monday night after fighting for her life for three days. She had set herself on fire on the campus on Saturday (July 12) over alleged inaction against a professor who allegedly sexually harassed her. Hundreds of BJD workers carrying party flags burnt tyres on major roads in Balasore, expressing anger over the “inaction” of the government and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. There was heavy police deployment and drones were used to monitor crowd movement. Apart from Balasore town, BJD workers also held demonstrations in Jaleswar, Basta, Soro, Baliapal and Bhograi. “People are very angry over the denial of justice to the student who ultimately set herself on fire and died. We will continue the agitation till the BJP government announces a judicial probe into the incident,” said BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra. Arrests made in Balasore case The student, a second-year B.Ed student, had reportedly complained about sexual harassment by her professor, but no action was taken. The police have now arrested the college principal and the accused professor, who is also head of the education department. https://www.wionews.com/videos/odisha-bjd-stages-massive-protest-cops-use-water-cannons-tear-gas-to-disperse-protesters-1752663527532/embed Odisha CM announces compensation for family Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a compensation of ₹20 lakh for the student’s family. He also ordered a detailed investigation into the matter to ensure all those responsible are held accountable. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office said, “The CM has directed concerned officers to investigate the case thoroughly and ensure strict legal action.” Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati said in a post on social media platform X, “Shattered to learn of the untimely loss of a young student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College. Her passing is not just a tragedy—it is a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard our campuses.” Odisha bandh on Thursday Meanwhile, eight opposition parties including the Congress have called for Odisha bandh on July 17. Odisha Congress president Bhakta Charan Das announced that the bandh is supported by several parties, including Left-aligned groups. He accused the state government of negligence and failure to ensure women’s safety in educational institutions. The Odisha bandh is likely to disrupt public transport and daily services, especially in Balasore and nearby districts. Student complained to multiple authorities in vain The student had accused her college Head of Department of harassment repeatedly and had reached out to the college principal and higher authorities, but her complaints were allegedly ignored. BJD chief Naveen Patnaik has criticised the state government’s handling of the case. “It is even more disturbing to think how a failed system can take someone’s life. The most painful part is that this was not an accident, but rather the result of a system that remained silent instead of helping,” Patnaik said in a post on X. “With great courage, she had written to the college principal, informing them about the sexual harassment she had faced. Even after being ignored by the college authorities, she did not give up. To seek justice, she reached out to the higher education minister, the chief minister’s office, and even a Union Minister. She also personally met the Balasore MP to share her plight,” Patnaik said.

Security was tightened in government buildings in Bhubaneswar, including Rajiv Bhavan and Kharavela Bhavan, which are located in the vicinity of the Lok Seva Bhavan. Police Commissioner S Dev Datt Singh was present near the Lok Sabha Bhavan to oversee the security arrangements.

Anger over Balasore student’s death spills onto streets; cops deploy water cannons, tear gas; Oppn calls state bandh

Luxury brand Prada walked into a controversy when the humble Kolhapuri chappals landed on&nbsp;the Spring/Summer 2026 runway. It’s not a trend but a fashion statement here in India. People across the country have accepted it in their collection. From traditional to western outfits, Kolhapuris can complement both and can be viewed as versatile. But what triggered the hullabaloo was the price tag for the footwear GI tagged to Indian states Maharashtra and Karnataka.&nbsp;Whose Kolhapuri chappals are these? The internet was stunned to see it priced at INR 100,000. It may have tempted many to stock up on Kolhapuris and start a business for its demand outside of the country. But in good zest, it all stayed on social media as some were enraged and some just shocked with the price tag so steep. This banter online started a conversation between Prada and&nbsp;the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). In a video conference, the two parties discussed the product, and on Wednesday (July 16), a team from the fashion major arrived in India and interacted with the artisans weaving these humble yet luxurious products. From the craft to finer nuances were studied.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The viral outcome</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;It is learnt that Prada will soon be coming up with a limited edition of ‘Made in India’ leather sandals. But this time in collaboration with the Indian artisans – the real masters of the craft. Call it global outreach or craft appropriation, but when Indian heritage is diversifying on the global stage, no fellow Indian would want to complain.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Meanwhile, this also happened…</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;A PIL was filed in the Bombay High Court seeking action against Prada&nbsp;for its alleged unauthorised use of Kolhapuri chappal. The PIL was dismissed by the bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne after hearing both petitioners' lawyers and Prada. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Bar and Bench tweeted details of the hearing:</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Senior Advocate appearing for Prada however opposed the PIL. Kadam: &quot;the PIL has been filed for defending statutory rights.. These rights are vested on statutory owner.. Association of Persons or any body registered under law can be a registered owner of GI. Accordingly, two…&mdash; Bar and Bench (@barandbench) <a href="https://twitter.com/barandbench/status/1945372391334440982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kolhapuri chappals have been trending globally, this time for its appearance on Prada's Spring/Summer 2026 runway. Many were excited others stunned with the price tag it carried. Thereafter a lot followed, here's a low down.

Luxury brand Prada walked into a controversy when the humble Kolhapuri chappals landed on the Spring/Summer 2026 runway. It’s not a trend but a fashion statement here in India. People across the country have accepted it in their collection. From traditional to western outfits, Kolhapuris can complement both and can be viewed as versatile. But what triggered the hullabaloo was the price tag for the footwear GI tagged to Indian states Maharashtra and Karnataka. Whose Kolhapuri chappals are these? The internet was stunned to see it priced at INR 100,000. It may have tempted many to stock up on Kolhapuris and start a business for its demand outside of the country. But in good zest, it all stayed on social media as some were enraged and some just shocked with the price tag so steep. This banter online started a conversation between Prada and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). In a video conference, the two parties discussed the product, and on Wednesday (July 16), a team from the fashion major arrived in India and interacted with the artisans weaving these humble yet luxurious products. From the craft to finer nuances were studied. The viral outcome It is learnt that Prada will soon be coming up with a limited edition of ‘Made in India’ leather sandals. But this time in collaboration with the Indian artisans – the real masters of the craft. Call it global outreach or craft appropriation, but when Indian heritage is diversifying on the global stage, no fellow Indian would want to complain. Meanwhile, this also happened… A PIL was filed in the Bombay High Court seeking action against Prada for its alleged unauthorised use of Kolhapuri chappal. The PIL was dismissed by the bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne after hearing both petitioners' lawyers and Prada. Bar and Bench tweeted details of the hearing:

Kolhapuri chappals have been trending globally, this time for its appearance on Prada's Spring/Summer 2026 runway. Many were excited others stunned with the price tag it carried. Thereafter a lot followed, here's a low down.

Online banter to PIL in court: Prada to launch limited edition ‘Made in India’ leather sandals — Kolhapuris

In what is being widely perceived as a temporary relief, the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya has been indefinitely postponed by Yemeni authorities. The execution was slated to happen on Wednesday (July 16), but the order postponing the execution had surfaced on Tuesday. However, those who are closely associated with the case hold the impression that this temporary postponement or indefinite postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priya's execution in Yemen remains very high.Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades, has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha. "Getting a temporary postponement of execution does not mean that we have all the time in the world. The execution could happen even tomorrow. The victim's family would not keep quiet; they will protest, and the Yemeni authorities will be forced to take action," he told WION. An aviation consultant by profession, Jerome is also a social worker. As a power of attorney holder, Jerome has been undertaking efforts on behalf of Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari. Power of attorney is a legal document that allows one person to act on someone else's behalf.Meanwhile, members of the India-based Nimisha Priya International Action Council maintain that efforts are on to reach out to the victim's family to seek pardon and to offer them blood money, to save Priya's life. However, they too acknowledge that the plea for pardon has been facing resistance from the younger members in the victim's family. Notably, according to a social media post, the victim's brother has been firm in his stance about punishment for Nimisha Priya. The post also indicates that the victim's family is unwilling to reconsider their decision, and it also adds that they would follow up till the punishment is carried out.<h2>About Nimisha Priya and her case</h2>Hailing from a poor family in Kerala's Palakkad district, Nimisha went to Yemen in 2008 and worked as a nurse in a Government-run hospital in Sana'a. Eyeing better earning opportunities, she quit her job and started her own clinic.Nimisha's India-based lawyer Subhash Chandan maintains that Priya and another woman had started a clinic with Yemeni national Talal, who had later subjected the women to physical and mental abuse and confiscated their passports. In a desperate bid to escape the abuse and flee, it is said that Priya and the Yemeni woman had drugged Talal, which is suspected to have led to his death. The case got further complicated after Talal's mutilated body was found by the authorities in Yemen. Nimisha's lawyer maintains that she was only responsible for drugging the abuser and that she isn't aware of what transpired after her escape bid.<h2>When Nimisha's mother met her in a Yemeni jail</h2>After a seven-year-long wait and multiple court battles in India, Prema Kumari, Nimisha's mother, was able to meet her daughter in a Yemeni prison in April 2024. Back then, jail authorities had permitted the mother-daughter duo to spend a few hours together and even allowed them to have lunch on the premises. Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari, continues to be in Yemen, in the hope that she can return to India with her daughter.Since 2017, India has strictly prohibited its nationals from travelling to Yemen, owing to the deteriorating internal security situation there. Only those with special permission from the Indian Government can undertake travel to Yemen; for others, it is a punishable offence.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades, has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha. He said that the victim's family would not keep quiet, stressing that they will protest against it. 

In what is being widely perceived as a temporary relief, the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya has been indefinitely postponed by Yemeni authorities. The execution was slated to happen on Wednesday (July 16), but the order postponing the execution had surfaced on Tuesday. However, those who are closely associated with the case hold the impression that this temporary postponement or indefinite postponement does not mean anything significant, and that the risk of Priya's execution in Yemen remains very high. Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades, has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha. "Getting a temporary postponement of execution does not mean that we have all the time in the world. The execution could happen even tomorrow. The victim's family would not keep quiet; they will protest, and the Yemeni authorities will be forced to take action," he told WION. An aviation consultant by profession, Jerome is also a social worker. As a power of attorney holder, Jerome has been undertaking efforts on behalf of Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari. Power of attorney is a legal document that allows one person to act on someone else's behalf. Meanwhile, members of the India-based Nimisha Priya International Action Council maintain that efforts are on to reach out to the victim's family to seek pardon and to offer them blood money, to save Priya's life. However, they too acknowledge that the plea for pardon has been facing resistance from the younger members in the victim's family. Notably, according to a social media post, the victim's brother has been firm in his stance about punishment for Nimisha Priya. The post also indicates that the victim's family is unwilling to reconsider their decision, and it also adds that they would follow up till the punishment is carried out. About Nimisha Priya and her case Hailing from a poor family in Kerala's Palakkad district, Nimisha went to Yemen in 2008 and worked as a nurse in a Government-run hospital in Sana'a. Eyeing better earning opportunities, she quit her job and started her own clinic. Nimisha's India-based lawyer Subhash Chandan maintains that Priya and another woman had started a clinic with Yemeni national Talal, who had later subjected the women to physical and mental abuse and confiscated their passports. In a desperate bid to escape the abuse and flee, it is said that Priya and the Yemeni woman had drugged Talal, which is suspected to have led to his death. The case got further complicated after Talal's mutilated body was found by the authorities in Yemen. Nimisha's lawyer maintains that she was only responsible for drugging the abuser and that she isn't aware of what transpired after her escape bid. When Nimisha's mother met her in a Yemeni jail After a seven-year-long wait and multiple court battles in India, Prema Kumari, Nimisha's mother, was able to meet her daughter in a Yemeni prison in April 2024. Back then, jail authorities had permitted the mother-daughter duo to spend a few hours together and even allowed them to have lunch on the premises. Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari, continues to be in Yemen, in the hope that she can return to India with her daughter. Since 2017, India has strictly prohibited its nationals from travelling to Yemen, owing to the deteriorating internal security situation there. Only those with special permission from the Indian Government can undertake travel to Yemen; for others, it is a punishable offence.

Samuel Jerome, an Indian national who has been residing in Yemen for more than two decades, has been leading efforts to secure the release of Nimisha. He said that the victim's family would not keep quiet, stressing that they will protest against it.&nbsp;

Nimisha Priya's execution postponed, but victim's family could protest against it

After weeks of extreme heatwave conditions, Jammu and Kashmir has been hit by intense showers across various districts of the Union Territory. The MeT department has issued a weather advisory predicting heavy rainfall across various districts in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, along with a warning of landslides and flash floods. The MeT department says that the weather is going to be generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate Rain/thundershower at many places, with intense showers at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places of J&amp;K in the next 24 hours.&nbsp;People living in the higher reaches have also been advised to remain cautious of landslides and flash floods. The authorities have issued an advisory that flash floods, landslides, mudslides and shooting stones might occur in vulnerable places.&nbsp;The MeT also says from July 18 to July 20, there will be spells of light to moderate rain and thundershower at scattered to fairly widespread places. Meanwhile, from July 21-23, the weather will be cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate showers at many places, with intense showers at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places of J&amp;K.&nbsp;The MeT department has said that there will be an improvement of weather after July 23 across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

After weeks of extreme heatwave conditions, Jammu and Kashmir has been hit by intense showers across various districts of the Union Territory.

After weeks of extreme heatwave conditions, Jammu and Kashmir has been hit by intense showers across various districts of the Union Territory. The MeT department has issued a weather advisory predicting heavy rainfall across various districts in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, along with a warning of landslides and flash floods. The MeT department says that the weather is going to be generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate Rain/thundershower at many places, with intense showers at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places of J&K in the next 24 hours. People living in the higher reaches have also been advised to remain cautious of landslides and flash floods. The authorities have issued an advisory that flash floods, landslides, mudslides and shooting stones might occur in vulnerable places. The MeT also says from July 18 to July 20, there will be spells of light to moderate rain and thundershower at scattered to fairly widespread places. Meanwhile, from July 21-23, the weather will be cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate showers at many places, with intense showers at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places of J&K. The MeT department has said that there will be an improvement of weather after July 23 across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

After weeks of extreme heatwave conditions, Jammu and Kashmir has been hit by intense showers across various districts of the Union Territory.

Intense showers across J&K, MeT department issues advisory for flash floods and landslides at vulnerable places

After the Operation Sindoor of May 2025, India announced that it wouldn't just produce weapons for itself, it would begin exporting defence systems globally. Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM Modi, visited the &nbsp;DRDO lab in Bengaluru to signal a high-level commitment to the staff.&nbsp;Since the turn of the decade, India has significantly boosted its defence export capabilities. In 2020-21, India's defence export stood at 8,434&nbsp;crore. Four years later, it stands at 23,622 crore, a three times increase in Defence capabilities. India exports to 80 countries defence equipment such as radar systems, artillery guns, missiles, offshore patrol vessels, bulletproof jackets, and electronic warfare equipment. Over 75 per cent of India's capital defence budget is earmarked for domestic manufacturing.Since Operation Sindoor India has not only propelled Indian indigenous defence manufacturing but has also displayed Indian missiles and weapon systems capability globally. India's Akash surface-to-air missiles intercepted enemy drones, DRDO's electronic warfare systems disrupted enemy radar, and Indian-built loitering munitions executed precision strikes without endangering the pilots.&nbsp;<h2>Major upcoming systems&nbsp;</h2>BrahMos‑II hypersonic missile: It is 1500 km in range and Mach&nbsp;8 in speed. This ambitious defence project is a multi-platform utility missile capable of being launched by land, sea, and air.AMCA stealth fighter: It is a 5th-generation jet by DRDO &amp; HAL. The first flight is expected by 2026, with serial production likely by 2032–33.Project Kusha air defence: It is a multi-layered defence system for intercepting missiles, jets, and drones up to 400 km in range, aims to match the Russian S‑400 surface-to-air missile system, and will be operational by 2028. VSHORADS: Indigenous shoulder-fired missiles with an approximate range of 6 km. It will be laced with IR seeker systems or commonly called the eye of the missile. It is a sensor used in missiles and other weapons to detect and track targets based on the infrared radiation they emit. Rudram‑2 &amp; Rudram‑3 missiles:&nbsp;&nbsp;Precision strike missiles for striking enemy radars, air defences, communication units with ranges for Rudram‑2, Rudram‑3 at 250–300 km, and 550+ km respectively.&nbsp; CLAWs DEW system:&nbsp;This is India's first Directed energy weapon laser against drones, micro‑missiles and mortars.&nbsp;These weapons, once developed and tested, can be exported globally. Over 400 defence weapons and equipment, which were in India's import list, have been delisted. India is targeting 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. In April 2025, India has delivered the second batch of Brahmos missiles to the Philippines. Reliance Defence has secured 600 crore worth of export orders from Germany's leading defence manufacturer Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH. Given Europe's manufacturing constraints, attention to decrease reliance on the US defence exports and cost-effectiveness of Indian Defence components positions Indian defence companies in a unique advantageous position to capitalise on rising export opportunities. &nbsp;

India's Defence Exports have surged to a record number, approximately 23,622 crore ($2.76 billion) in FY 24-25. This marks a 12 % YoY increase from ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023–24. Operation Sindoor have provided a global display of Indian indigenous defence manufacturing. 

After the Operation Sindoor of May 2025, India announced that it wouldn't just produce weapons for itself, it would begin exporting defence systems globally. Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM Modi, visited the DRDO lab in Bengaluru to signal a high-level commitment to the staff. Since the turn of the decade, India has significantly boosted its defence export capabilities. In 2020-21, India's defence export stood at 8,434 crore. Four years later, it stands at 23,622 crore, a three times increase in Defence capabilities. India exports to 80 countries defence equipment such as radar systems, artillery guns, missiles, offshore patrol vessels, bulletproof jackets, and electronic warfare equipment. Over 75 per cent of India's capital defence budget is earmarked for domestic manufacturing. Since Operation Sindoor India has not only propelled Indian indigenous defence manufacturing but has also displayed Indian missiles and weapon systems capability globally. India's Akash surface-to-air missiles intercepted enemy drones, DRDO's electronic warfare systems disrupted enemy radar, and Indian-built loitering munitions executed precision strikes without endangering the pilots. Major upcoming systems BrahMos‑II hypersonic missile: It is 1500 km in range and Mach 8 in speed. This ambitious defence project is a multi-platform utility missile capable of being launched by land, sea, and air. AMCA stealth fighter: It is a 5th-generation jet by DRDO & HAL. The first flight is expected by 2026, with serial production likely by 2032–33. Project Kusha air defence: It is a multi-layered defence system for intercepting missiles, jets, and drones up to 400 km in range, aims to match the Russian S‑400 surface-to-air missile system, and will be operational by 2028. VSHORADS: Indigenous shoulder-fired missiles with an approximate range of 6 km. It will be laced with IR seeker systems or commonly called the eye of the missile. It is a sensor used in missiles and other weapons to detect and track targets based on the infrared radiation they emit. Rudram‑2 & Rudram‑3 missiles: Precision strike missiles for striking enemy radars, air defences, communication units with ranges for Rudram‑2, Rudram‑3 at 250–300 km, and 550+ km respectively. CLAWs DEW system: This is India's first Directed energy weapon laser against drones, micro‑missiles and mortars. These weapons, once developed and tested, can be exported globally. Over 400 defence weapons and equipment, which were in India's import list, have been delisted. India is targeting 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. In April 2025, India has delivered the second batch of Brahmos missiles to the Philippines. Reliance Defence has secured 600 crore worth of export orders from Germany's leading defence manufacturer Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH. Given Europe's manufacturing constraints, attention to decrease reliance on the US defence exports and cost-effectiveness of Indian Defence components positions Indian defence companies in a unique advantageous position to capitalise on rising export opportunities.

India's Defence Exports have surged to a record number, approximately 23,622 crore ($2.76 billion) in FY 24-25. This marks a 12 % YoY increase from ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023–24. Operation Sindoor have provided a global display of Indian indigenous defence manufacturing.&nbsp;

Operation Sindoor sparks export boom: Hypersonic missiles, stealth jets & laser weapons to give boost to India's soft power

The Punjab Police has moved swiftly in the last 30 hours as they arrested key accused Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Amritpal Singh Dhillon in the hit-and-run case of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh late on Tuesday (July 15). The 114-year-old marathon racer was killed in a car accident on Monday. The accused is a resident of Kartarpur in Jalandhar and allegedly killed Fauja with his Fortuner SUV and is now under interrogation at the Bhogpur police station.<h2>NRI arrested in Fauja Singh&nbsp;</h2>"The accused has been identified as Amritpal Singh Dhillon ,and he is 26 years old. He works in Canada and returned to India on June 23 for the construction of his house. His sister and mother are settled in Canada. The incident took place on July 14, and after hitting Fauja Singh, he fled from the spot and parked his car in a garage. We arrested him from his house yesterday. After watching the news, he came to know that the person he hit was Fauja Singh..." SSP Rural Harvinder Singh Virk said.&nbsp;The accident happened on Monday evening as the Punjab Police had been on a manhunt for the accused, who had used a Fortuner SUV. After hours of searching, the accused was arrested late on Tuesday and confessed to the crime. However, during the initial investigation, Dhillon claimed that he was unaware of who the victim was and instead chose to run away from the accident site.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moving swiftly, the Punjab Police arrested Dhillon and are expected to present him in court on Wednesday. The accused claimed that the unfortunate incident happened when he was returning from Mukerian after selling his phone, when his vehicle struck an elderly person near Bias Pind. It was later revealed that the victim of the accident was legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-coach-under-whom-team-attained-number-1-test-ranking-questions-jadejas-intent-after-lords-loss-1752598282616">Ex-India coach, under whom team attained number 1 Test ranking, questions Jadeja's intent after Lord's Loss</a><h2>Who was Fauja Singh?</h2>Born on 1 April 1911, Fauja became a global icon when he started running marathons at the age of 89, after having migrated to the UK in 1993 after the death of his wife, Gian Kaur. According to his autobiography, 'Turbaned Tornado', Fauja started running to cope with depression after the deaths of some of his family members, including his wife.&nbsp;Fauja started with long walks in Ilford public parks before switching to running longer distances. Fauja's late-life passion for running was all the more exceptional because, as he would go on to tell, as a child, he had been very ill and had struggled to walk until he was five years old. Following a meeting with marathon trainer Harmandar Singh, Fauja was trained for the marathon distance with the aim of running for charity.

The Punjab Police has moved swiftly in the last 30 hours as they arrested key accused Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Amritpal Singh Dhillon in the hit-and-run case of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh late on Tuesday (July 15).

The Punjab Police has moved swiftly in the last 30 hours as they arrested key accused Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Amritpal Singh Dhillon in the hit-and-run case of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh late on Tuesday (July 15). The 114-year-old marathon racer was killed in a car accident on Monday. The accused is a resident of Kartarpur in Jalandhar and allegedly killed Fauja with his Fortuner SUV and is now under interrogation at the Bhogpur police station. NRI arrested in Fauja Singh "The accused has been identified as Amritpal Singh Dhillon ,and he is 26 years old. He works in Canada and returned to India on June 23 for the construction of his house. His sister and mother are settled in Canada. The incident took place on July 14, and after hitting Fauja Singh, he fled from the spot and parked his car in a garage. We arrested him from his house yesterday. After watching the news, he came to know that the person he hit was Fauja Singh..." SSP Rural Harvinder Singh Virk said. The accident happened on Monday evening as the Punjab Police had been on a manhunt for the accused, who had used a Fortuner SUV. After hours of searching, the accused was arrested late on Tuesday and confessed to the crime. However, during the initial investigation, Dhillon claimed that he was unaware of who the victim was and instead chose to run away from the accident site. Moving swiftly, the Punjab Police arrested Dhillon and are expected to present him in court on Wednesday. The accused claimed that the unfortunate incident happened when he was returning from Mukerian after selling his phone, when his vehicle struck an elderly person near Bias Pind. It was later revealed that the victim of the accident was legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh. ALSO READ | Ex-India coach, under whom team attained number 1 Test ranking, questions Jadeja's intent after Lord's Loss Who was Fauja Singh? Born on 1 April 1911, Fauja became a global icon when he started running marathons at the age of 89, after having migrated to the UK in 1993 after the death of his wife, Gian Kaur. According to his autobiography, 'Turbaned Tornado', Fauja started running to cope with depression after the deaths of some of his family members, including his wife. Fauja started with long walks in Ilford public parks before switching to running longer distances. Fauja's late-life passion for running was all the more exceptional because, as he would go on to tell, as a child, he had been very ill and had struggled to walk until he was five years old. Following a meeting with marathon trainer Harmandar Singh, Fauja was trained for the marathon distance with the aim of running for charity.

The Punjab Police has moved swiftly in the last 30 hours as they arrested key accused Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Amritpal Singh Dhillon in the hit-and-run case of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh late on Tuesday (July 15).

Fauja Singh hit-and-run case: Punjab Police arrests NRI suspect, claims he was 'unaware' of who the victim was

India has reached a significant clean energy milestone five years earlier than planned. By June 30, half of the nation’s total power generation capacity comes from non-fossil fuel sources, said the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). How did India reach this mark? What does it mean in real numbers? And what is the future of clean energy for India? Here is a lowdown:<h2>India achieves renewable energy milestone: What does it mean?</h2>Out of a total 484.8 Gigawatts installed capacity, 242.8 GW is now based on renewable or low-carbon sources, said the ministry in a statement.&nbsp;Under the Paris Climate Accord and National Targets, &nbsp;India had committed to set up 500 GW of renewable energy-based power generation by 2030. Achieving the 50 per cent non-fossil fuel capacity mark in 2025 showcases India’s strong progress and leadership in clean energy transitions, according to experts.<h2>How India generates its power now</h2>As of June 30, India’s installed power capacity composition is: 49.92 per cent thermal or fossil fuels, 1.81 per cent nuclear and 48.27 per cent renewable energy (including large hydropower). “Timely interventions for renewables, like the waiver of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges and regular auctions, have elevated India's commitment to sustainability, and today it has the world's third-largest solar power capacity,” said Aarti Khosla, Founder and Director, Climate Trends.<h2>India's global standing on emissions</h2>India’s per capita emissions remain at one-third of the global average, which keeps it among the lowest worldwide.&nbsp;It is also one of the few G20 countries on track to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on climate action.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sustainable-rice-for-a-changing-climate-9036529/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sustainable-rice-for-a-changing-climate-9036529/embed</a><h2>How India achieved the clean energy milestone</h2>Several government initiatives have helped India achieve rapid growth in clean energy development. They include PM-KUSUM, or Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan, a scheme on solar power for farmers. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to provide free solar electricity for households.&nbsp; The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy of the Indian government aims to promote large grid-connected wind-solar PV hybrid systems. &nbsp;India is also going through large-scale solar park development.“India is one of the leading countries which have achieved this feat, better than most developed nations. The aggressive non-fossil fuel capacity addition is a positive example for the world to follow. &nbsp;Policy push coupled with the entrepreneurial spirit of India Inc has been instrumental in achieving this growth,” said Mohit Bhargava, Former CEO, NTPC Green Energy Ltd.<h2>The way ahead for India on non-fossil fuel energy</h2>India will now have to shift towards strengthening the national transmission grid, expanding battery storage capacity and developing pumped hydro storage systems, according to experts.&nbsp;

Under the Paris Climate Accord and National Targets,  India had committed to set up 500 GW of renewable energy-based power generation by 2030. Achieving the 50 per cent non-fossil fuel capacity mark in 2025 showcases India’s strong progress 

India has reached a significant clean energy milestone five years earlier than planned. By June 30, half of the nation’s total power generation capacity comes from non-fossil fuel sources, said the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). How did India reach this mark? What does it mean in real numbers? And what is the future of clean energy for India? Here is a lowdown: India achieves renewable energy milestone: What does it mean? Out of a total 484.8 Gigawatts installed capacity, 242.8 GW is now based on renewable or low-carbon sources, said the ministry in a statement. Under the Paris Climate Accord and National Targets, India had committed to set up 500 GW of renewable energy-based power generation by 2030. Achieving the 50 per cent non-fossil fuel capacity mark in 2025 showcases India’s strong progress and leadership in clean energy transitions, according to experts. How India generates its power now As of June 30, India’s installed power capacity composition is: 49.92 per cent thermal or fossil fuels, 1.81 per cent nuclear and 48.27 per cent renewable energy (including large hydropower). “Timely interventions for renewables, like the waiver of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges and regular auctions, have elevated India's commitment to sustainability, and today it has the world's third-largest solar power capacity,” said Aarti Khosla, Founder and Director, Climate Trends. India's global standing on emissions India’s per capita emissions remain at one-third of the global average, which keeps it among the lowest worldwide. It is also one of the few G20 countries on track to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on climate action. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sustainable-rice-for-a-changing-climate-9036529/embed How India achieved the clean energy milestone Several government initiatives have helped India achieve rapid growth in clean energy development. They include PM-KUSUM, or Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan, a scheme on solar power for farmers. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana aims to provide free solar electricity for households. The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy of the Indian government aims to promote large grid-connected wind-solar PV hybrid systems. India is also going through large-scale solar park development. “India is one of the leading countries which have achieved this feat, better than most developed nations. The aggressive non-fossil fuel capacity addition is a positive example for the world to follow. Policy push coupled with the entrepreneurial spirit of India Inc has been instrumental in achieving this growth,” said Mohit Bhargava, Former CEO, NTPC Green Energy Ltd. The way ahead for India on non-fossil fuel energy India will now have to shift towards strengthening the national transmission grid, expanding battery storage capacity and developing pumped hydro storage systems, according to experts.

Under the Paris Climate Accord and National Targets, &nbsp;India had committed to set up 500 GW of renewable energy-based power generation by 2030. Achieving the 50 per cent non-fossil fuel capacity mark in 2025 showcases India’s strong progress&nbsp;

India achieves clean energy target milestone five years ahead of schedule. Here is why it matters

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that an individual's right to life and dignity must prevail over another's right to free speech. The top court said this while hearing a batch of petitions concerning influencers, podcasters and YouTubers, including Samay Raina and Ranveer Allahabadia, who recently made headlines for their remarks during the online show India's Got Latent. The Supreme Court asked the union government to come up with a set of balanced regulatory guidelines to curb obscenity and offensive content on YouTube and social media but instructed that this must be done without crossing into censorship.<h2>The central government is to come up with a regulatory framework</h2>The court noted that if there was a race between Article 19 (free speech) and Article 21 (right to life with dignity", the right to a dignified life would trump that to express freely. "The right to dignity emanates from the same Constitution which the other people cite to protect their right to speech. Article 19 (freedom of speech and expression) cannot prevail over Article 21 (right to life and dignity). This is what it has to be. If there is a race between Articles 19 and 21, Article 21 has to trump Article 19".While instructing the union government to come up with a balanced regulatory framework, the Supreme Court of India emphasised that the framework must not only define the boundaries of free speech but also define the obligations that come with the right. It said that the guidelines must take care of both the freedom and the limits where the rights end and duties start: "At the same time, we will be careful with the guidelines. Something approved by the court has to be for posterity, and we have to remain cognizant that they cannot be misused. State’s power needs to be balanced with citizens’ rights. We have to protect the citizens’ rights but at the same time we have to ensure this does not end up trampling upon fellow citizens' rights".SC gave the government time to propose the guidelines while noting that any regulatory framework must be in line with "constitutional principles" and said, "We will invite open debates on these guidelines. Stakeholders, including members of the bar, may give their viewpoints".

The Supreme Court also asked the union government to come up with a set of balanced regulatory guidelines to curb obscenity and offensive content on YouTube and social media but instructed that this must be done without crossing into censorship.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that an individual's right to life and dignity must prevail over another's right to free speech. The top court said this while hearing a batch of petitions concerning influencers, podcasters and YouTubers, including Samay Raina and Ranveer Allahabadia, who recently made headlines for their remarks during the online show India's Got Latent. The Supreme Court asked the union government to come up with a set of balanced regulatory guidelines to curb obscenity and offensive content on YouTube and social media but instructed that this must be done without crossing into censorship. The central government is to come up with a regulatory framework The court noted that if there was a race between Article 19 (free speech) and Article 21 (right to life with dignity", the right to a dignified life would trump that to express freely. "The right to dignity emanates from the same Constitution which the other people cite to protect their right to speech. Article 19 (freedom of speech and expression) cannot prevail over Article 21 (right to life and dignity). This is what it has to be. If there is a race between Articles 19 and 21, Article 21 has to trump Article 19". While instructing the union government to come up with a balanced regulatory framework, the Supreme Court of India emphasised that the framework must not only define the boundaries of free speech but also define the obligations that come with the right. It said that the guidelines must take care of both the freedom and the limits where the rights end and duties start: "At the same time, we will be careful with the guidelines. Something approved by the court has to be for posterity, and we have to remain cognizant that they cannot be misused. State’s power needs to be balanced with citizens’ rights. We have to protect the citizens’ rights but at the same time we have to ensure this does not end up trampling upon fellow citizens' rights". SC gave the government time to propose the guidelines while noting that any regulatory framework must be in line with "constitutional principles" and said, "We will invite open debates on these guidelines. Stakeholders, including members of the bar, may give their viewpoints".

The Supreme Court also asked the union government to come up with a set of balanced regulatory guidelines to curb obscenity and offensive content on YouTube and social media but instructed that this must be done without crossing into censorship.

'Right to dignity trumps free speech,' says Supreme Court while hearing pleas against Samay Raina, Ranveer Allahbadia

Multiple schools in Delhi NCR have received bomb threats in the last three days. On Wednesday (July 16), three more schools received a bomb via e-mail. The targets of these mails were St. Thomas School in Dwarka, Vasant Valley School in Vasant Kunj, Mother's International School in Hauz Khas, Richmond Global School in Paschim Vihar, and Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Lodi Estate. This morning, St. Stephen’s College also received a threat. Delhi police days around 10 schools and one college have received such threats.&nbsp;The mail mentioned there were four IED bombs and RDX planted in the premises. The mail also specified that it was in the institute’s library stating that it would explode by 2 PM IST. Search operations have been initiated, and nothing suspicious has come to the fore as yet.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-delhi-schools-receive-bomb-threats-security-beefed-up-at-navy-and-crpf-run-institutions-1752471924319">Three Delhi schools receive bomb threats; security beefed up at Navy and CRPF run institutions</a> &nbsp;<h2>Threats received by other institutes: &nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this week, on Monday (July 14), bomb threats were received by the Navy Children School in Chanakyapuri, the CRPF school in Dwarka, and&nbsp;the CRPF School&nbsp;in Prashant Vihar, Rohini. The following day, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in Mumbai also received an email that mentioned it was targeted and would be blown up. On inspection, the bomb squad team and police noted nothing suspicious was found.

Third day in a row, Delhi NCR schools receive bomb threats via mail. Police highlights 10 institutes have received threats, nothing suspicious have been found so far. 

Multiple schools in Delhi NCR have received bomb threats in the last three days. On Wednesday (July 16), three more schools received a bomb via e-mail. The targets of these mails were St. Thomas School in Dwarka, Vasant Valley School in Vasant Kunj, Mother's International School in Hauz Khas, Richmond Global School in Paschim Vihar, and Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Lodi Estate. This morning, St. Stephen’s College also received a threat. Delhi police days around 10 schools and one college have received such threats. The mail mentioned there were four IED bombs and RDX planted in the premises. The mail also specified that it was in the institute’s library stating that it would explode by 2 PM IST. Search operations have been initiated, and nothing suspicious has come to the fore as yet. Also read: Three Delhi schools receive bomb threats; security beefed up at Navy and CRPF run institutions Threats received by other institutes: Earlier this week, on Monday (July 14), bomb threats were received by the Navy Children School in Chanakyapuri, the CRPF school in Dwarka, and the CRPF School in Prashant Vihar, Rohini. The following day, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in Mumbai also received an email that mentioned it was targeted and would be blown up. On inspection, the bomb squad team and police noted nothing suspicious was found.

Third day in a row, Delhi NCR schools receive bomb threats via mail. Police highlights 10 institutes have received threats, nothing suspicious have been found so far.&nbsp;

More institutes receive bomb threats: 10 schools in Delhi NCR targeted with threat mails in 3 days, Police say

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10 schools in Delhi NCR receive bomb threats via mail in 3 days