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Strong earthquake tremors were felt in Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, and other cities of the National Capital Region on Thursday morning. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the magnitude of the earthquake was 4.4 on the Richter Scale. The earthquake struck Jhajjar at 9:04 am at a depth of 10 Km.&nbsp;"EQ of M: 4.4, On: 10/07/2025 09:04:50 IST, Lat: 28.63 N, Long: 76.68 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Jhajjar, Haryana," NCS wrote on X.&nbsp;Delhi falls in Seismic Zone IV, which is categorized as a "High Damage Risk Zone" and indicates a high potential for earthquakes of moderate to high intensity.&nbsp;Social media users reported that the earthquake triggered panic, with people in Delhi and NCR rushing out of their houses.&nbsp;&nbsp;"People in Gurugram and Delhi-NCR are rushing out of their homes right now after experiencing strong tremors of an earthquake," wrote an X user.&nbsp;Another user claimed that it was the longest earthquake he had felt. "Delhi: that’s the longest earthquake I’ve felt in a VERY long time," he wrote on X.&nbsp;A Delhi man, meanwhile, said that his entire vehicle shook because of the earthquake. "We felt the tremors...It was really scary, my vehicle shook. It was really strong," he said.&nbsp;On February 17, an earthquake measuring 4 on the Richter scale hit Delhi and NCR at a depth of 5 km.<h2>What to do during an earthquake?</h2>According to NDRF, people should remain calm and avoid panicking. They should also protect themselves by hiding under strong structures. "Drop under a table; cover your head with one hand and hold the table till the tremors last. Run outside as soon as the tremors stop - do not use the lift," it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"When outside, move away from buildings, trees, walls, and poles. Look for open spaces. When inside a vehicle, pull over in an open area and remain inside; avoid bridges," it added.

A strong earthquake hit Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida and other cities of the national capital region. 

Strong earthquake tremors were felt in Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, and other cities of the National Capital Region on Thursday morning. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the magnitude of the earthquake was 4.4 on the Richter Scale. The earthquake struck Jhajjar at 9:04 am at a depth of 10 Km. "EQ of M: 4.4, On: 10/07/2025 09:04:50 IST, Lat: 28.63 N, Long: 76.68 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Jhajjar, Haryana," NCS wrote on X. Delhi falls in Seismic Zone IV, which is categorized as a "High Damage Risk Zone" and indicates a high potential for earthquakes of moderate to high intensity. Social media users reported that the earthquake triggered panic, with people in Delhi and NCR rushing out of their houses. "People in Gurugram and Delhi-NCR are rushing out of their homes right now after experiencing strong tremors of an earthquake," wrote an X user. Another user claimed that it was the longest earthquake he had felt. "Delhi: that’s the longest earthquake I’ve felt in a VERY long time," he wrote on X. A Delhi man, meanwhile, said that his entire vehicle shook because of the earthquake. "We felt the tremors...It was really scary, my vehicle shook. It was really strong," he said. On February 17, an earthquake measuring 4 on the Richter scale hit Delhi and NCR at a depth of 5 km. What to do during an earthquake? According to NDRF, people should remain calm and avoid panicking. They should also protect themselves by hiding under strong structures. "Drop under a table; cover your head with one hand and hold the table till the tremors last. Run outside as soon as the tremors stop - do not use the lift," it said. "When outside, move away from buildings, trees, walls, and poles. Look for open spaces. When inside a vehicle, pull over in an open area and remain inside; avoid bridges," it added.

The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the magnitude of the earthquake was 4.4 on the Richter Scale.

Earthquake hits Haryana's Jhajjar, strong tremors felt in Delhi, surrounding areas

Heavy monsoon rains lashed India’s northern state of Himachal Pradesh, triggering landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, but amidst this inclement weather a dog turned out to be a saviour as he barked incessantly till he woke up the residents of a village in Mandi district, alerting them of the impending danger and saving 67 lives. The residents of Syathi village in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district say they are indebted to the dog who saved their lives as he alerted them in time before a flash flood struck in the early hours of July 1, enabling 67 people from 20 families to escape just in time.&nbsp;&nbsp;The villagers say the dog started barking loudly at around 1.30 am till he made people wake up and step out of their homes.&nbsp;<h2>‘Woken up by thunderous sounds and barking of dog’</h2>&nbsp;“I was woken up by loud thunderous sounds and the barking of a dog. It was raining heavily and the dog wouldn’t stop barking. I instantly realised something was about to happen and started screaming and waking up the villagers,” said Dholu Ram, a resident.&nbsp;“I ran to each house to wake them up, and the dog accompanied me all along,” said Dholu.&nbsp;Narendra, a villager, said the dog sleeping on the second floor of his house suddenly started barking loudly and then howling around midnight, as the rain kept pouring.&nbsp;“I woke up from the barking. As I went to him, I saw a big crack in the wall of the house and water had started to enter. I ran downstairs with the dog and woke everyone up,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>People left everything behind for shelter</h2>&nbsp;The rain was so intense that people left everything behind for shelter. Shortly after, the village was hit by a landslide, and nearly a dozen houses were flattened. Only four-five houses are now visible in the village; the rest are under the landslide debris.&nbsp;At least 78 people have died in Himachal Pradesh since the onset of monsoon on June 20, out of which 50 people died in rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, while 28 died in road accidents, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said.&nbsp;

The rain was so intense that people left everything behind for shelter. Shortly after, the village was hit by a landslide, and nearly a dozen houses were flattened. Only four-five houses are now visible in the village; the rest are under the landslide debris.

Heavy monsoon rains lashed India’s northern state of Himachal Pradesh, triggering landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, but amidst this inclement weather a dog turned out to be a saviour as he barked incessantly till he woke up the residents of a village in Mandi district, alerting them of the impending danger and saving 67 lives. The residents of Syathi village in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district say they are indebted to the dog who saved their lives as he alerted them in time before a flash flood struck in the early hours of July 1, enabling 67 people from 20 families to escape just in time. The villagers say the dog started barking loudly at around 1.30 am till he made people wake up and step out of their homes. ‘Woken up by thunderous sounds and barking of dog’ “I was woken up by loud thunderous sounds and the barking of a dog. It was raining heavily and the dog wouldn’t stop barking. I instantly realised something was about to happen and started screaming and waking up the villagers,” said Dholu Ram, a resident. “I ran to each house to wake them up, and the dog accompanied me all along,” said Dholu. Narendra, a villager, said the dog sleeping on the second floor of his house suddenly started barking loudly and then howling around midnight, as the rain kept pouring. “I woke up from the barking. As I went to him, I saw a big crack in the wall of the house and water had started to enter. I ran downstairs with the dog and woke everyone up,” he added. People left everything behind for shelter The rain was so intense that people left everything behind for shelter. Shortly after, the village was hit by a landslide, and nearly a dozen houses were flattened. Only four-five houses are now visible in the village; the rest are under the landslide debris. At least 78 people have died in Himachal Pradesh since the onset of monsoon on June 20, out of which 50 people died in rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, while 28 died in road accidents, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said.

The rain was so intense that people left everything behind for shelter. Shortly after, the village was hit by a landslide, and nearly a dozen houses were flattened. Only four-five houses are now visible in the village; the rest are under the landslide debris.

Dog turns saviour, wakes up village in Himachal, saves 67 lives before landslide flattens homes

India and Namibia share a lot since both countries struggled against colonialism, value dignity and freedom and belong to the Global South, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday (July 9) and reminded that Indians supported people of Namibia during its war of freedom. While speaking at the joint session of the Namibian Parliament, PM Modi said that the Constitutions of both countries lead people to follow equality, liberty, and justice. &nbsp;"It is a great privilege to address this august house, a temple of democracy. I thank you for giving me this honour. I stand before you as a representative of the Mother of Democracy, and I bring with me warm greetings from 1.4 billion people of India," he said. "India and Namibia have much in common. We both fought colonial rule. We both value dignity and freedom. Our constitution guides us to uphold equality, liberty and justice. We are part of the Global South, and our people share hope and dreams," he added. PM Modi said that he feels very privileged to be conferred with the highest civilian honour of Namibia as an expression of the people of the two countries' friendship. "Like the tough and elegant plants of Namibia, our friendship has stood the test of time. And, just like your national plant, Welwitschia Mirabilis, it only grows stronger with age and time," he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It was an honour to speak on India-Namibia friendship, our bond with Africa and India’s efforts for global good, during my address to the Namibian Parliament. <a href="https://t.co/GQmB6CPDAX">pic.twitter.com/GQmB6CPDAX</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1942983027254333541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He said that it is the strength of the Constitution of India that the President of the world's largest democracy comes from a poor tribal family, and it is the strength of the same Constitution that has enabled a person like him, who was born in a poor family, to become Prime Minister three times. "A few months ago, you celebrated a historic moment: Namibia elected its first woman president. We understand and share your pride and joy because in India, we also proudly say Madam President," he said. Earlier, PM Modi met Namibian President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at the State House in Windhoek. A 27-year gap was bridged by a visit from Namibia to India at the Prime Minister level. This was also the very first bilateral State Visit that President Nandi-Ndaitwah welcomed following assuming office in March of this year. Prime Minister wished President Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulations on having been elected Namibia's Head of State. The two prime ministers discussed consolidating bilateral engagements in areas such as defence, maritime security, digital technology and UPI, agriculture, health and pharma, energy and critical minerals.

We are part of Global South, our people share hope and dreams: PM Modi in Namibia Parliament

India and Namibia share a lot since both countries struggled against colonialism, value dignity and freedom and belong to the Global South, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday (July 9) and reminded that Indians supported people of Namibia during its war of freedom. While speaking at the joint session of the Namibian Parliament, PM Modi said that the Constitutions of both countries lead people to follow equality, liberty, and justice. "It is a great privilege to address this august house, a temple of democracy. I thank you for giving me this honour. I stand before you as a representative of the Mother of Democracy, and I bring with me warm greetings from 1.4 billion people of India," he said. "India and Namibia have much in common. We both fought colonial rule. We both value dignity and freedom. Our constitution guides us to uphold equality, liberty and justice. We are part of the Global South, and our people share hope and dreams," he added. PM Modi said that he feels very privileged to be conferred with the highest civilian honour of Namibia as an expression of the people of the two countries' friendship. "Like the tough and elegant plants of Namibia, our friendship has stood the test of time. And, just like your national plant, Welwitschia Mirabilis, it only grows stronger with age and time," he said.

PM Modi said he is deeply honoured to receive the highest civilian award of Namibia as a symbol of the friendship between the people of the two countries

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company Starlink has received an approval from the Indian Government’s IN-SPACE, which is the promoter and facilitator for private space firms in the country. However, this approval is just one step in the list of multiple approvals that the firm still needs from various departments and ministries of the Indian government. Therefore, it could take several months before Starlink clears all hurdles and begins to offer its services in India. Starlink is learned to have been lobbying hard in India, using the political and economic clout of the controversial American billionaire.&nbsp;Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACE) has granted authorisation to M/s Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited (SSCPL), New Delhi, for enabling provisioning of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites constellation, namely Starlink Gen1. The authorisation will enable SSCPL to provide satellite communication services in India, IN-SPACE announced.&nbsp;&nbsp;Going by the official announcement from the Indian Government, it appears that the IN-SPACE approval comes with conditions and safeguards. Firstly, the authorisation has been provided only for the Generation 1 constellation, which refers to the older generation of Starlink satellites and related heavier, not-so-portable communication antennae. Secondly, the IN-SPACE authorisation is granted for a period of five years from the date of authorisation (July 8th 2025) or the end of operational life of Gen1 constellation—whichever is earlier. Given the relatively short life of Starlink Gen1 satellites and the considerable time they have already spent in space, it is highly likely that the entire fleet of Generation1 would be defunct before the end of the approved five-year period, July 7th 2030.&nbsp;The Starlink Gen1 Constellation is a global constellation with 4,408 satellites orbiting earth in altitudes between 540-570 km, and they are touted to be capable of providing ~600 Gbps throughput over India. Throughput refers to the total amount of data a satellite communication system can transmit and receive in a period of time.&nbsp;Starlink has a more advanced constellation known as the Gen2 and also has the ability to offer direct satellite internet connectivity (marketed as Direct to Cell) to mobile phones. However, there is no mention of those being approved in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Starlink Satellite internet will not replace your home broadband</h2>&nbsp;Starlink is not alone in wanting to gain access to the Indian satellite communications market. European firms Eutelsat OneWeb, SES are also in the race to foray into the Indian market. In recent months, IN-SPACE has also provided authorisations to the Indian subsidiaries of the aforementioned firms—OneWeb India Communications Private Limited, SES Satellites India Private Limited.&nbsp;However, it must be emphasised that these satellite internet services are not meant to replace high-speed home broadband connections that are widely available in Indian cities at highly affordable monthly rates around Rs. 500 (approx $5.83) and upwards.&nbsp;All these satellite internet providers are not targeting big cities, apartments or other institutions in urban centres. Instead, these satellites internet firms see business potential only in remote areas like mountains, deserts, islands, tough terrain etc., where traditional communication systems are weak and there is no reliable high-speed broadband connectivity and related infrastructure. Traditional high-speed broadband is available only in population dense regions where cables are laid and related infrastructure exists. Telecom firms do not install their infrastructure in remote and inaccessible regions with low population, because it becomes too expensive and unviable from a business perspective.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the case of Starlink, the firm provides an antenna/receiver that can send and receive signals to and from satellites. The antenna can be installed on the rooftop or a window from where it has a direct and unobstructred view of the sky (satellites passing overhead). Gadgets can be connected to the internet router linked to the Starlink antenna and one can access the internet from almost anywhere on earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Satellite internet services are significantly more expensive than traditional wired broadband used in most homes. In case of Starlink, as seen in foreign countries, one must pay a one-time cost of around Rs.42780 ($499) for the antenna and then a monthly subscription cost of Rs. 2570 ($30) for the most affordable data plan. While Starlink has not announced its pricing for India, it is expected to be in the aforementioned range, considering how it is priced in similar nations.&nbsp;By all means, home broadband that is available in Indian cities is significantly cheaper and faster than the speeds offered by the likes of Starlink. However, during times of disasters and emergencies when all traditional means of communication get affected, Starlink and related services can prove useful in cities as well.

Satellites internet firms see business potential only in remote areas like mountains, deserts, islands, tough terrain, etc., where traditional communication systems are weak and there is no reliable high-speed broadband connectivity and related infrastructure

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company Starlink has received an approval from the Indian Government’s IN-SPACE, which is the promoter and facilitator for private space firms in the country. However, this approval is just one step in the list of multiple approvals that the firm still needs from various departments and ministries of the Indian government. Therefore, it could take several months before Starlink clears all hurdles and begins to offer its services in India. Starlink is learned to have been lobbying hard in India, using the political and economic clout of the controversial American billionaire. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACE) has granted authorisation to M/s Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited (SSCPL), New Delhi, for enabling provisioning of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites constellation, namely Starlink Gen1. The authorisation will enable SSCPL to provide satellite communication services in India, IN-SPACE announced. Going by the official announcement from the Indian Government, it appears that the IN-SPACE approval comes with conditions and safeguards. Firstly, the authorisation has been provided only for the Generation 1 constellation, which refers to the older generation of Starlink satellites and related heavier, not-so-portable communication antennae. Secondly, the IN-SPACE authorisation is granted for a period of five years from the date of authorisation (July 8th 2025) or the end of operational life of Gen1 constellation—whichever is earlier. Given the relatively short life of Starlink Gen1 satellites and the considerable time they have already spent in space, it is highly likely that the entire fleet of Generation1 would be defunct before the end of the approved five-year period, July 7th 2030. The Starlink Gen1 Constellation is a global constellation with 4,408 satellites orbiting earth in altitudes between 540-570 km, and they are touted to be capable of providing ~600 Gbps throughput over India. Throughput refers to the total amount of data a satellite communication system can transmit and receive in a period of time. Starlink has a more advanced constellation known as the Gen2 and also has the ability to offer direct satellite internet connectivity (marketed as Direct to Cell) to mobile phones. However, there is no mention of those being approved in India. Starlink Satellite internet will not replace your home broadband Starlink is not alone in wanting to gain access to the Indian satellite communications market. European firms Eutelsat OneWeb, SES are also in the race to foray into the Indian market. In recent months, IN-SPACE has also provided authorisations to the Indian subsidiaries of the aforementioned firms—OneWeb India Communications Private Limited, SES Satellites India Private Limited. However, it must be emphasised that these satellite internet services are not meant to replace high-speed home broadband connections that are widely available in Indian cities at highly affordable monthly rates around Rs. 500 (approx $5.83) and upwards. All these satellite internet providers are not targeting big cities, apartments or other institutions in urban centres. Instead, these satellites internet firms see business potential only in remote areas like mountains, deserts, islands, tough terrain etc., where traditional communication systems are weak and there is no reliable high-speed broadband connectivity and related infrastructure. Traditional high-speed broadband is available only in population dense regions where cables are laid and related infrastructure exists. Telecom firms do not install their infrastructure in remote and inaccessible regions with low population, because it becomes too expensive and unviable from a business perspective. In the case of Starlink, the firm provides an antenna/receiver that can send and receive signals to and from satellites. The antenna can be installed on the rooftop or a window from where it has a direct and unobstructred view of the sky (satellites passing overhead). Gadgets can be connected to the internet router linked to the Starlink antenna and one can access the internet from almost anywhere on earth. Satellite internet services are significantly more expensive than traditional wired broadband used in most homes. In case of Starlink, as seen in foreign countries, one must pay a one-time cost of around Rs.42780 ($499) for the antenna and then a monthly subscription cost of Rs. 2570 ($30) for the most affordable data plan. While Starlink has not announced its pricing for India, it is expected to be in the aforementioned range, considering how it is priced in similar nations. By all means, home broadband that is available in Indian cities is significantly cheaper and faster than the speeds offered by the likes of Starlink. However, during times of disasters and emergencies when all traditional means of communication get affected, Starlink and related services can prove useful in cities as well.

Satellites internet firms see business potential only in remote areas like mountains, deserts, islands, tough terrain, etc., where traditional communication systems are weak and there is no reliable high-speed broadband connectivity and related infrastructure

Elon Musk’s Starlink clears another hurdle with Indian Govt; many more to go

Heavy rain lashed down in Delhi and the adjoining national capital area on Wednesday (July 9), triggering waterlogging issues in several parts of the national capital. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for the national capital. It further said that moderate rainfall, along with light thunderstorms, and lightning is very likely to occur in entire Delhi and NCR areas.&nbsp;The capital's maximum temperature is likely to be at 35 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature is expected to be around 24 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department had predicted light to moderate rain on Wednesday (July 9) and has also issued orange alert. There is also a possibility of thunder, lightning and intermittent rain.&nbsp;As per the India Meteorological Department, there may be heavy rain near Loni Dehat, Hindon AF Station, Ghaziabad, Indirapuram, Chhapraula, Noida, Dadri, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh in the next few hours.&nbsp;East-moving cloud clusters are likely to lead to moderate rain in the majority of locations, with isolated patches experiencing heavy showers over the next two hours. Light to moderate showers are already in underway in the eastern parts of Delhi, and the situation is likely to worsen. In addition, the IMD has requested that residents observe all traffic advisories given by local authorities and refrain from traveling unless it is unavoidable. Individuals must remain indoors, ensure all windows and doors are firmly shut, and find safe cover until weather conditions get better. Seeking shelter under trees during heavy rain is highly discouraged because it can put them in danger of injury.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Heavy rain brings relief from heat in Delhi; waterlogging reported in several parts of the national capital . . . . . Video: news agency ANI <a href="https://t.co/OUAM0z7JaO">pic.twitter.com/OUAM0z7JaO</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1942948438158803449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, in a post on X, airline company SpiceJet issued an advisory for its passengers. It said, “#WeatherUpdate: Due to bad weather in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may get affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status.”

WATCH-Heavy rains lash Delhi-NCR; IMD issues orange alert

Heavy rain lashed down in Delhi and the adjoining national capital area on Wednesday (July 9), triggering waterlogging issues in several parts of the national capital. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for the national capital. It further said that moderate rainfall, along with light thunderstorms, and lightning is very likely to occur in entire Delhi and NCR areas. The capital's maximum temperature is likely to be at 35 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature is expected to be around 24 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department had predicted light to moderate rain on Wednesday (July 9) and has also issued orange alert. There is also a possibility of thunder, lightning and intermittent rain. As per the India Meteorological Department, there may be heavy rain near Loni Dehat, Hindon AF Station, Ghaziabad, Indirapuram, Chhapraula, Noida, Dadri, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh in the next few hours. East-moving cloud clusters are likely to lead to moderate rain in the majority of locations, with isolated patches experiencing heavy showers over the next two hours. Light to moderate showers are already in underway in the eastern parts of Delhi, and the situation is likely to worsen. In addition, the IMD has requested that residents observe all traffic advisories given by local authorities and refrain from traveling unless it is unavoidable. Individuals must remain indoors, ensure all windows and doors are firmly shut, and find safe cover until weather conditions get better. Seeking shelter under trees during heavy rain is highly discouraged because it can put them in danger of injury.

The IMD had predicted light to moderate rain on Wednesday (July 9) and has also issued orange alert. There is also a possibility of thunder, lightning and intermittent rain

After the Pahalgam terror attack, the security of the Amarnath Yatra is one of the major concerns for the authorities. The Jammu and Kashmir government has upgraded the digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre for real-time surveillance of the Amarnath Yatra routes. This command centre makes sure to monitor every single pilgrim's movement across the Amarnath routes.The Hi-tech Command Control Centre has around 120 people from around 35 government departments working day and night in two shifts. The departments working in the Hi-tech Command Control Centre include Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, NDRF, SDRF, Health, PHE, PDD, Telecom and many others.There are around 101 PTZ High Definition 360-degree view cameras placed all throughout the routes from the base camps to the cave. &nbsp;Around 1052 cameras have been installed all around the routes of the Yatra. These cameras have been placed at strategically important places from both the Baltal and Nunwan base camps.''Integrated Command Control Centre has been activated for the last three years and each year we are adding new features. We have introduced facial recognition cameras this time. We have also increased the number of CCTV Cameras and shifts that are manning the command centre have been increased. Representatives of the paramilitary forces are also there; civilian departments are also there. The whole objective is to monitor and provide a safe yatra to pilgrims coming, '' said V K Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir.The digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre plays a very important role in analysing security threats. &nbsp;It also helps in identifying medical emergencies, potential disaster situations, locating missing individuals, and facilitating their recovery. And with the help of new tech gadgets, it has become easier for the authorities to keep track of the whole Amarnath Yatra.''Sense of security is crucial, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack. This is being monitored at the highest level at both the state and central level. We are monitoring the movement of Yatri daily. This technology is helping us to keep unwanted elements away and we can identify the wrongdoers as we have the database. Not only in this portion as they can be a threat to Yatri's but overall law and order situation, technology is helping us. The track is difficult and high altitude and weather plays a crucial role, so it also helps us to make conscious decisions, '' said V K Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir.The security arrangements made by the authorities involving the latest technology such as the Facial Recognition system, CCTV Cameras, Drones and other gadgets have helped in building confidence of the Pilgrims. These are the main reasons for such a record-breaking number of Pilgrims coming for the Yatra within the very first week. More than 100 thousand Pilgrims completed the Yatra in the very first six days.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has upgraded the digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre for real-time surveillance of the Amarnath Yatra routes. This command centre makes sure to monitor every single pilgrim's movement across the Amarnath routes.

After the Pahalgam terror attack, the security of the Amarnath Yatra is one of the major concerns for the authorities. The Jammu and Kashmir government has upgraded the digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre for real-time surveillance of the Amarnath Yatra routes. This command centre makes sure to monitor every single pilgrim's movement across the Amarnath routes. The Hi-tech Command Control Centre has around 120 people from around 35 government departments working day and night in two shifts. The departments working in the Hi-tech Command Control Centre include Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, NDRF, SDRF, Health, PHE, PDD, Telecom and many others. There are around 101 PTZ High Definition 360-degree view cameras placed all throughout the routes from the base camps to the cave. Around 1052 cameras have been installed all around the routes of the Yatra. These cameras have been placed at strategically important places from both the Baltal and Nunwan base camps. ''Integrated Command Control Centre has been activated for the last three years and each year we are adding new features. We have introduced facial recognition cameras this time. We have also increased the number of CCTV Cameras and shifts that are manning the command centre have been increased. Representatives of the paramilitary forces are also there; civilian departments are also there. The whole objective is to monitor and provide a safe yatra to pilgrims coming, '' said V K Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir. The digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre plays a very important role in analysing security threats. It also helps in identifying medical emergencies, potential disaster situations, locating missing individuals, and facilitating their recovery. And with the help of new tech gadgets, it has become easier for the authorities to keep track of the whole Amarnath Yatra. ''Sense of security is crucial, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack. This is being monitored at the highest level at both the state and central level. We are monitoring the movement of Yatri daily. This technology is helping us to keep unwanted elements away and we can identify the wrongdoers as we have the database. Not only in this portion as they can be a threat to Yatri's but overall law and order situation, technology is helping us. The track is difficult and high altitude and weather plays a crucial role, so it also helps us to make conscious decisions, '' said V K Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir. The security arrangements made by the authorities involving the latest technology such as the Facial Recognition system, CCTV Cameras, Drones and other gadgets have helped in building confidence of the Pilgrims. These are the main reasons for such a record-breaking number of Pilgrims coming for the Yatra within the very first week. More than 100 thousand Pilgrims completed the Yatra in the very first six days.

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has upgraded the digital Hi-tech Command Control Centre for real-time surveillance of the Amarnath Yatra routes. This command centre makes sure to monitor every single pilgrim's movement across the Amarnath routes.

High tech command centre for Amarnath Yatra upgraded after the Pahalgam attack

A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight carrying around 175 passengers and crew had to return and make an emergency landing at the Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning as one of its engines developed a technical snag due to a bird hit. “IGO5009 Patna to Delhi reported bird hit after takeoff at 0842 IST, one dead bird in pieces was found on the runway during inspection. The same was advised to the aircraft through the Approach Control Unit,” said a statement issued by the Patna airport officials.&nbsp;“Message received from the approach control unit that the aircraft requested to come back to Patna due to vibration in one engine. Local standby was declared, and the aircraft landed safely at 0903 IST on runway 7. All passengers are safe,” the Patna airport added.&nbsp;&nbsp;“IndiGo flight 6E 5009 operating from Patna to Delhi on 09 July 2025 turned back to Patna due to a bird strike. Due to the requirement of necessary inspection and maintenance of the aircraft, the flight has been cancelled for the day,” said an IndiGo spokesperson.&nbsp;According to FlightRadar24, flight 6E 5009, an Airbus A320 (VT-IFL), took off from Patna at 8.41 am but was diverted back shortly after take-off. The flight was scheduled to land at Delhi’s IGI Airport at 10.15 am.All 175 passengers and crew were safe, said Patna airport officials.According to reports, the flight (6E509) had as many as 169 passengers on board and landed back safely at the Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna.&nbsp;In another incident on Tuesday, there was a major bee attack on an IndiGo plane in Jaipur, which delayed the flight by over an hour. The swarm of bees was so massive that a fire engine was called in to disperse them.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An IndiGo Spokesperson says, “IndiGo flight 6E 5009 operating from Patna to Delhi on 09 July 2025 turned back to Patna due to a bird strike. Due to the requirement of necessary inspection and maintenance of the aircraft, the flight has been cancelled for the day.” <a href="https://t.co/H1G8rWvgwJ">pic.twitter.com/H1G8rWvgwJ</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1942920087545245892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to FlightRadar24, flight 6E 5009, an Airbus A320 (VT-IFL), took off from Patna at 8.41 am but was diverted back shortly after take-off. The flight was scheduled to land at Delhi’s IGI Airport at 10.15 am. All 175 passengers and crew were safe, said Patna airport officials.

A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight carrying around 175 passengers and crew had to return and make an emergency landing at the Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning as one of its engines developed a technical snag due to a bird hit. “IGO5009 Patna to Delhi reported bird hit after takeoff at 0842 IST, one dead bird in pieces was found on the runway during inspection. The same was advised to the aircraft through the Approach Control Unit,” said a statement issued by the Patna airport officials. “Message received from the approach control unit that the aircraft requested to come back to Patna due to vibration in one engine. Local standby was declared, and the aircraft landed safely at 0903 IST on runway 7. All passengers are safe,” the Patna airport added. “IndiGo flight 6E 5009 operating from Patna to Delhi on 09 July 2025 turned back to Patna due to a bird strike. Due to the requirement of necessary inspection and maintenance of the aircraft, the flight has been cancelled for the day,” said an IndiGo spokesperson. According to FlightRadar24, flight 6E 5009, an Airbus A320 (VT-IFL), took off from Patna at 8.41 am but was diverted back shortly after take-off. The flight was scheduled to land at Delhi’s IGI Airport at 10.15 am. All 175 passengers and crew were safe, said Patna airport officials. According to reports, the flight (6E509) had as many as 169 passengers on board and landed back safely at the Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. In another incident on Tuesday, there was a major bee attack on an IndiGo plane in Jaipur, which delayed the flight by over an hour. The swarm of bees was so massive that a fire engine was called in to disperse them.

According to FlightRadar24, flight 6E 5009, an Airbus A320 (VT-IFL), took off from Patna at 8.41 am but was diverted back shortly after take-off. The flight was scheduled to land at Delhi’s IGI Airport at 10.15 am. All 175 passengers and crew were safe, said Patna airport officials.

IndiGo’s Delhi-bound flight returns to Patna after technical snag due to bird hit

Two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots lost their lives on Wednesday (July 9) after a Jaguar trainer aircraft crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu district. The jet went down in an agricultural field near Bhanoda village around 1.25 pm. The IAF confirmed the crash in a post on X, stating, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries. No damage to any civil property has been reported.” A court of inquiry has been ordered to find out what went wrong.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-initially-ignored-then-became-india-s-deep-strike-warrior-how-the-jaguar-finally-won-over-the-indian-air-force-1752056787347">‘Initially ignored, then became India’s deep-strike warrior’: How the Jaguar finally won over the Indian&nbsp;Air&nbsp;Force</a><h2>Third crash this year involving Jaguar</h2>This is the third time in 2024 that a Jaguar has crashed.On 7 March, a Jaguar went down near Ambala during a routine sortie. The pilot managed to eject in time. Just a month later, on 3 April, another Jaguar crashed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, tragically killing Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. In a heroic final act, Yadav reportedly steered the failing jet away from a densely populated area before losing his life. He also managed to eject his co-pilot to safety.<h2>Long history of crashes linked to ageing fleet</h2>Jaguars have seen more than 50 minor and major crashes since they were inducted into the IAF in 1979. In June 2018, another crash near the Pakistan border also claimed the life of the pilot.Many of the crashes have been traced back to technical faults, especially engine failures, raising concerns about the continued use of these ageing jets. Despite regular upgrades, the Jaguar’s design is now over four decades old.<h2>Why India still uses Jaguars while others moved on?</h2>The Jaguar was originally developed by a joint venture between France’s Breguet and the UK’s British Aircraft Corporation (SEPECAT). Though countries like France, the UK, Oman, and Nigeria have long retired their Jaguar fleets, India continues to fly over 120 of them.Most of India’s Jaguars were licence-built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and they remain part of the country’s nuclear strike capability. The plan is to begin phasing them out from 2027-28, with a complete retirement by 2031. However, India’s shortage of fighter squadrons has left the IAF with few immediate alternatives.The IAF currently operates just 30 fighter squadrons, far short of the 42.5 it is supposed to have. With delays in new aircraft acquisitions, like the HAL Tejas Mk1A, the Jaguars are being forced to serve longer than expected.

On 7 March, a Jaguar went down near Ambala during a routine sortie. The pilot managed to eject in time. Just a month later, on 3 April, another Jaguar crashed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, tragically killing Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. 

Two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots lost their lives on Wednesday (July 9) after a Jaguar trainer aircraft crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu district. The jet went down in an agricultural field near Bhanoda village around 1.25 pm. The IAF confirmed the crash in a post on X, stating, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries. No damage to any civil property has been reported.” A court of inquiry has been ordered to find out what went wrong. Also read: ‘Initially ignored, then became India’s deep-strike warrior’: How the Jaguar finally won over the Indian Air Force Third crash this year involving Jaguar This is the third time in 2024 that a Jaguar has crashed. On 7 March, a Jaguar went down near Ambala during a routine sortie. The pilot managed to eject in time. Just a month later, on 3 April, another Jaguar crashed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, tragically killing Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. In a heroic final act, Yadav reportedly steered the failing jet away from a densely populated area before losing his life. He also managed to eject his co-pilot to safety. Long history of crashes linked to ageing fleet Jaguars have seen more than 50 minor and major crashes since they were inducted into the IAF in 1979. In June 2018, another crash near the Pakistan border also claimed the life of the pilot. Many of the crashes have been traced back to technical faults, especially engine failures, raising concerns about the continued use of these ageing jets. Despite regular upgrades, the Jaguar’s design is now over four decades old. Why India still uses Jaguars while others moved on? The Jaguar was originally developed by a joint venture between France’s Breguet and the UK’s British Aircraft Corporation (SEPECAT). Though countries like France, the UK, Oman, and Nigeria have long retired their Jaguar fleets, India continues to fly over 120 of them. Most of India’s Jaguars were licence-built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and they remain part of the country’s nuclear strike capability. The plan is to begin phasing them out from 2027-28, with a complete retirement by 2031. However, India’s shortage of fighter squadrons has left the IAF with few immediate alternatives. The IAF currently operates just 30 fighter squadrons, far short of the 42.5 it is supposed to have. With delays in new aircraft acquisitions, like the HAL Tejas Mk1A, the Jaguars are being forced to serve longer than expected.

On 7 March, a Jaguar went down near Ambala during a routine sortie. The pilot managed to eject in time. Just a month later, on 3 April, another Jaguar crashed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, tragically killing Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav.&nbsp;

'Third crash this year': How many times have Jaguar jets crashed in India? Why are they still flying?

India's metro cities are witnessing a bizarre new phenomenon on the party scene: staged weddings. These extravagant, high-octane bashes feature all the bells and whistles of an actual Indian wedding–imagine a dhol beats soundtrack, bright ethnic attire, flower rains, orchestrated sangeet performances, mock varmala ceremonies, and even a stand-in pandit. The only thing that is missing? A genuine couple exchanging vows.&nbsp;These are weddings that cater to people who want the excitement of weddings but without the cultural or emotional commitments. These events are fast becoming popular in cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune. Mukul Khurana, a content creator, wrote on Instagram, "Will you attend this wedding? What's your POV? Is it just a fad or will it be a business model?"<h2>Watch the video here:</h2>

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He explained that Jumma Ki Raat, an event organiser of such themed parties in Delhi, will charge anything between Rs 500 to Rs 3,000 as an entrance fee. Some are professionally ticketed, and others spring up spontaneously on college campuses or even on rooftop bars. The concept is straightforward: the fun remains, but the family drama goes. For Gen Z in particular, it's a vibe–no gossipy relatives, no strict rituals, just tunes, grub, and a feeling of belonging. The emphasis is on celebration, inclusivity, and naturally, content generation.&nbsp;Interestingly, the trend is not local. Khurana said that Cornell University students in the US organised a two-day mock wedding celebration–proof that the trend is also catching on outside India.&nbsp;Social media reactions naturally split. One of the user said, "I feel just like all the other trends, this will remain for some time then fizzle out." Another one said, “Remember that AIB video with the same idea? They were really way ahead of their time.” Not everyone agrees, though. "It's sad to see this Gen Z where they are heading?" posted one of the user. Another one said, "Aaj ki generation bhatak gayi hai, unko rasta dikhane ke bajay aur bigada ja raha hai" (Today's generation has lost its way, and instead of guiding them, they're being led further away)."

Inside Gen Z’s fake wedding craze — All the fun, no real marriage. Here’s the catch

India's metro cities are witnessing a bizarre new phenomenon on the party scene: staged weddings. These extravagant, high-octane bashes feature all the bells and whistles of an actual Indian wedding–imagine a dhol beats soundtrack, bright ethnic attire, flower rains, orchestrated sangeet performances, mock varmala ceremonies, and even a stand-in pandit. The only thing that is missing? A genuine couple exchanging vows. These are weddings that cater to people who want the excitement of weddings but without the cultural or emotional commitments. These events are fast becoming popular in cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune. Mukul Khurana, a content creator, wrote on Instagram, "Will you attend this wedding? What's your POV? Is it just a fad or will it be a business model?" Watch the video here:

These are weddings that cater to people who want the excitement of weddings but without the cultural or emotional commitments. These events are fast becoming popular in cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune

Indian nurse Nimisha Priya is on death row in Yemen, and time is running out fast, as there's just a week to go for the execution date-July 16,&nbsp;2025. 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 Priya.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking to WION, Jerome said that he is making final attempts to provide hope and succour to Nimisha and her family. An aviation consultant by profession, Jerome is also a social worker and has been involved in the Nimisha Priya case since the start. As a power of attorney holder, Jerome has been undertaking efforts on behalf of Nimisha's mother Premakumari. Power of attorney is a&nbsp;legal document that allows one person to act on someone else's behalf.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 37-year-old Indian nurse was convicted for the murder of a Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi, which happened in 2016. Nimisha Priya has been languishing in jail for several years, and in 2020, a Yemeni court had ordered her execution, the death sentence was later upheld by a higher court.<h2>How the July 16 execution date was known</h2>According to Samuel Jerome, this week he received a call on his Yemeni phone number, while he was in India. The call was said to be from the Chairman of Prisons in Yemen and they informed me that the execution would be carried out on July 16. I verified these details with my contacts in Yemen and learnt it was legitimate. People in touch with me have also gone to the prison and checked the relevant documents and confirmed them to be true. I have been in India for the past three months and have now reached Yemen after the sudden developments in the case, he told WION.&nbsp;<h2>The negotiations so far with the victim's family</h2>More than three months ago, while in Yemen, Jerome had attempted to negotiate with the deceased victim Talal's family. "We had negotiations with his father and brother, asking for forgiveness. The concept of blood money is that the victim's side has to first forgive, and then the sum has to be paid. We offered to pay $1million (over Rs.8.5 crore) and also some other assurances. However, there was no response from the family after that," he said.&nbsp;<h2>The way ahead and final attempt</h2>According to Jerome, the execution order would not be issued without the victim family's consent for the same. Therefore, Jerome is of the view that further direct negotiations with the family would not be of help. However, he is now in touch with people who might be able to influence the victim's family, hoping that they could be made to reconsider their decision. Jerome is presently in Aden and is planning to travel to Sanaa, where Nimisha Priya is lodged in a prison.<h2>What the Indian government says</h2>According to sources, “Nimisha Priya was convicted for the crime of murder in Yemen in June 2018 and the local court handed out death sentence to her. We have been closely following the matter since then. We have been in regular touch with local authorities and her family members and rendered all possible assistance. We continue to closely follow the matter.”<h2>About Nimisha Priya and her case</h2>Hailing from a poor family in Kerala's Palakkad district,&nbsp;Nimisha&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Nimisha's India-based lawyer Subhash Chandan maintains that&nbsp;Priya&nbsp;and another woman had started a clinic with Yemeni national Talal, who had later subjected the women to physical and mental abuse, confiscated their passports. In a desperate bid to escape the abuse and flee, it is said that&nbsp;Priya&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;<h2>When Nimisha's mother met her in Yemeni jail</h2>After a seven-year-long wait and multiple court battles in India, Premakumari, 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 in the premises. Since 2017, India 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.

As execution date nears, final attempts to save Nimisha Priya underway in Yemen

Indian nurse Nimisha Priya is on death row in Yemen, and time is running out fast, as there's just a week to go for the execution date-July 16, 2025. 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 Priya. Speaking to WION, Jerome said that he is making final attempts to provide hope and succour to Nimisha and her family. An aviation consultant by profession, Jerome is also a social worker and has been involved in the Nimisha Priya case since the start. As a power of attorney holder, Jerome has been undertaking efforts on behalf of Nimisha's mother Premakumari. Power of attorney is a legal document that allows one person to act on someone else's behalf. The 37-year-old Indian nurse was convicted for the murder of a Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi, which happened in 2016. Nimisha Priya has been languishing in jail for several years, and in 2020, a Yemeni court had ordered her execution, the death sentence was later upheld by a higher court. How the July 16 execution date was known According to Samuel Jerome, this week he received a call on his Yemeni phone number, while he was in India. The call was said to be from the Chairman of Prisons in Yemen and they informed me that the execution would be carried out on July 16. I verified these details with my contacts in Yemen and learnt it was legitimate. People in touch with me have also gone to the prison and checked the relevant documents and confirmed them to be true. I have been in India for the past three months and have now reached Yemen after the sudden developments in the case, he told WION. The negotiations so far with the victim's family More than three months ago, while in Yemen, Jerome had attempted to negotiate with the deceased victim Talal's family. "We had negotiations with his father and brother, asking for forgiveness. The concept of blood money is that the victim's side has to first forgive, and then the sum has to be paid. We offered to pay $1million (over Rs.8.5 crore) and also some other assurances. However, there was no response from the family after that," he said. The way ahead and final attempt According to Jerome, the execution order would not be issued without the victim family's consent for the same. Therefore, Jerome is of the view that further direct negotiations with the family would not be of help. However, he is now in touch with people who might be able to influence the victim's family, hoping that they could be made to reconsider their decision. Jerome is presently in Aden and is planning to travel to Sanaa, where Nimisha Priya is lodged in a prison. What the Indian government says According to sources, “Nimisha Priya was convicted for the crime of murder in Yemen in June 2018 and the local court handed out death sentence to her. We have been closely following the matter since then. We have been in regular touch with local authorities and her family members and rendered all possible assistance. We continue to closely follow the matter.” 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, 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 Yemeni jail After a seven-year-long wait and multiple court battles in India, Premakumari, 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 in the premises. Since 2017, India 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.

Nimisha&nbsp;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

The unprecedented Bharat Bandh across the nation brought the country to a standstill. Against the government's pro-corporate and crony capitalist policies, more than 25 crores of workers assembled, joining hands to express the deep agrarian distress as well as the rising inequality in India. The government and its hostile policies have pushed billions of Indians to raging unemployment, high cost of living, and stagnating income. Workers across the spectrum, from white collar employees to gig workers, have supported the protests along with opposition parties in several states, such as Telangana, West Bengal, which have extended their support, even if it is to gain political mileage.<h2>Why is there a Bharat bandh today?</h2>Workers from 10 different organisations gathered in New Delhi on March 18, 2025, for the National Conventions of Workers to decide on the plan of action against the four labour codes, which “are a blueprint to impose a condition of virtual slavery” on the working people in the interest of the conglomerates. Apart from the labour codes, there is a concrete demand charter that is being pressed by the trade unions.<ul><li>Repeal of four labour codes: These four labour codes were being pushed by the Central Government to be implemented by April 1, but failed due to a lack of coordination among the states. According to the Trade Unions, these codes are aimed at curbing the democratic voices of dissent. Code on Wages makes the definition of wage ambiguous, undermining the federal structure by reducing the state-level negotiation powers of workers to demand better wages that reflect the local living costs. Industrial Relations Code reduces job security for workers, restricting lawful strikes and unionisation, and potentially weakening workers' protection. Code on Social Security fails to universalise mandates on social security, creates fragmentation, adds complexity and ambiguity, even though it recognises the gig workers, but it does not include a detailed framework related to job security, minimum wage, and working conditions. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code leaves out informal workers and migrant labourers, defining 'workers and employers' vaguely.</li><li>Protestors demand a national minimum wage of Rs 26,000 for all workers, including the unorganised sectors, informal labourers. They seek to implement ‘equal pay, equal work’, no casualisation of work, from outsourcing to fixed-term employment, apprentices, trainees, etc., under various schemes and pretexts. The government must ensure a minimum pension of 9,000 for all kinds of workers, from rag pickers to auto rickshaw drivers. They want to restore the Old Pension Scheme and scrap the New Pension Scheme and the Unified Pension Scheme.</li><li>They seek compulsory registration of trade unions within a period of 45 days from submission of the application. Immediate ratification of ILO (International Labour Organisation) conventions C87 and C98 related to the right to organise and collective bargaining.</li><li>The rampant privatisation has led to reduced subsidies for the weak and underprivileged category. The workers demand to stop the Privatisation of the Public Sector Enterprises, and the scrapping of the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP). They want the Electricity Amendment Bill to be withdrawn, and the privatisation of electricity should be stopped. They want an amendment of the existing law on mining of minerals and metals and ensure 50% share of profit from mines, including coal mines, for the upliftment of local communities, especially adivasis and farmers.&nbsp;</li><li>Farmers want MSP to be fixed at C2+50% for all farm produce with guaranteed procurement. Increase input subsidy to farmers on seed, fertilisers and electricity, etc., with a legal guarantee. Comprehensive loan waiver and crop insurance schemes. Implement the written assurances given by the Union government to the SKM, based on which the historic Kisan Struggle was suspended.&nbsp;</li><li>Enhancing corporate tax, reintroducing wealth tax and succession tax.&nbsp;</li><li>They also demand that the Right to work be made a fundamental right.&nbsp;</li></ul>These are a few of the demands which prompted the trade unions to call for a nationwide strike. Workers have argued that the government is “anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national, pro-corporate". They argue that the protest becomes important to counter the increased informalisation of working conditions.&nbsp;

As workers are gathering in the streets across India, we look at why trade unions are protesting. The four labour codes, minimum wage, social security, privatisation, and more.

The unprecedented Bharat Bandh across the nation brought the country to a standstill. Against the government's pro-corporate and crony capitalist policies, more than 25 crores of workers assembled, joining hands to express the deep agrarian distress as well as the rising inequality in India. The government and its hostile policies have pushed billions of Indians to raging unemployment, high cost of living, and stagnating income. Workers across the spectrum, from white collar employees to gig workers, have supported the protests along with opposition parties in several states, such as Telangana, West Bengal, which have extended their support, even if it is to gain political mileage. Why is there a Bharat bandh today? Workers from 10 different organisations gathered in New Delhi on March 18, 2025, for the National Conventions of Workers to decide on the plan of action against the four labour codes, which “are a blueprint to impose a condition of virtual slavery” on the working people in the interest of the conglomerates. Apart from the labour codes, there is a concrete demand charter that is being pressed by the trade unions. Repeal of four labour codes: These four labour codes were being pushed by the Central Government to be implemented by April 1, but failed due to a lack of coordination among the states. According to the Trade Unions, these codes are aimed at curbing the democratic voices of dissent. Code on Wages makes the definition of wage ambiguous, undermining the federal structure by reducing the state-level negotiation powers of workers to demand better wages that reflect the local living costs. Industrial Relations Code reduces job security for workers, restricting lawful strikes and unionisation, and potentially weakening workers' protection. Code on Social Security fails to universalise mandates on social security, creates fragmentation, adds complexity and ambiguity, even though it recognises the gig workers, but it does not include a detailed framework related to job security, minimum wage, and working conditions. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code leaves out informal workers and migrant labourers, defining 'workers and employers' vaguely. Protestors demand a national minimum wage of Rs 26,000 for all workers, including the unorganised sectors, informal labourers. They seek to implement ‘equal pay, equal work’, no casualisation of work, from outsourcing to fixed-term employment, apprentices, trainees, etc., under various schemes and pretexts. The government must ensure a minimum pension of 9,000 for all kinds of workers, from rag pickers to auto rickshaw drivers. They want to restore the Old Pension Scheme and scrap the New Pension Scheme and the Unified Pension Scheme. They seek compulsory registration of trade unions within a period of 45 days from submission of the application. Immediate ratification of ILO (International Labour Organisation) conventions C87 and C98 related to the right to organise and collective bargaining. The rampant privatisation has led to reduced subsidies for the weak and underprivileged category. The workers demand to stop the Privatisation of the Public Sector Enterprises, and the scrapping of the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP). They want the Electricity Amendment Bill to be withdrawn, and the privatisation of electricity should be stopped. They want an amendment of the existing law on mining of minerals and metals and ensure 50% share of profit from mines, including coal mines, for the upliftment of local communities, especially adivasis and farmers. Farmers want MSP to be fixed at C2+50% for all farm produce with guaranteed procurement. Increase input subsidy to farmers on seed, fertilisers and electricity, etc., with a legal guarantee. Comprehensive loan waiver and crop insurance schemes. Implement the written assurances given by the Union government to the SKM, based on which the historic Kisan Struggle was suspended. Enhancing corporate tax, reintroducing wealth tax and succession tax. They also demand that the Right to work be made a fundamental right. These are a few of the demands which prompted the trade unions to call for a nationwide strike. Workers have argued that the government is “anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national, pro-corporate". They argue that the protest becomes important to counter the increased informalisation of working conditions.

As workers are gathered in the streets across India, we look at why trade unions are protesting? The four labour codes, minimum wage, social security, privatisation, and more.

Bharat bandh today: Privatisation, labour code, why trade unions are protesting?

Two IAF pilots died in a Jaguar crash on Wednesday (July 9), but the aircraft’s journey into Indian skies began long before, and with no shortage of drama. On Wednesday afternoon, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu district, killing both pilots on board. The aircraft, which had taken off from the Suratgarh air base, went down in an agricultural field in Bhanoda village at around 1:25 p.m., according to police officials.The IAF confirmed in a statement, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.” There was no damage reported to civilian property.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-how-did-iran-get-american-f-14-tomcats-fighter-jet-and-why-is-it-still-flying-them-years-after-us-retired-them-1750260034881">How did Iran get American F-14 'Tomcats' fighter jet, and why is it still flying them years after US&nbsp;retired&nbsp;them?</a>While investigations are underway, the tragedy has reignited interest in the SEPECAT Jaguar, once a modern deep strike aircraft.<h2>Here's the story of how Jaguar made its way to IAF</h2>Initially, the Indian Air Force wasn’t particularly interested in the Jaguar. Its hopes were pinned on the indigenous HF-24 ‘Marut’, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). However, after the death of HAL’s chief test pilot in a prototype crash in 1970, it became clear that the Marut wouldn’t meet the IAF’s requirement for a Deep Penetration Strike Aircraft (DPSA). Though the Marut served admirably in the 1971 war, its limitations, mainly in power and avionics, meant the IAF had to look elsewhere. Once the Marut was ruled out, the Jaguar quickly became India’s top choice.<h2>SEPECAT Jaguar was initially ignored</h2>Interestingly, SEPECAT had pitched the Jaguar to India as early as 1968, even before the aircraft’s maiden flight. But the IAF, still scarred from its poor experience with the Folland Gnat (another British jet), showed no enthusiasm. It even turned down a low-cost offer and barely responded during formal presentations by legendary test pilots Jeffrey Quill and Jimmy Dell.<h2>IAF wanted twin engines</h2>During the mid-1970s, other competitors like France’s Mirage F1 and Sweden’s Viggen entered the race. However, the IAF wanted a twin-engine aircraft, ruling out both single-engine options. Britain’s then-Prime Minister James Callaghan had to personally assure India there would be no future arms sanctions, a promise that helped make Jaguar’s entry easy.After the Emergency period, the new government pushed ahead with the DPSA project. An Indian team visited France, Sweden, and the UK in early 1978. By October that year, the government officially selected the Jaguar. British Aerospace (BAe) had already formed, consolidating several major aviation firms. A deal was signed in April 1979 for around 130 aircraft, including licence production in India and technology transfer.<h2>Arrival of the Jaguar</h2>On 27 July 1979, the first two Jaguars landed in India. These aircraft ushered in a new phase for the IAF, replacing outdated platforms like the Canberra and the Hunter. The Jaguar gave India its much-needed edge in low-level interdiction and deep-strike missions.

The IAF confirmed in a statement, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.” There was no damage reported to civilian property.

Two IAF pilots died in a Jaguar crash on Wednesday (July 9), but the aircraft’s journey into Indian skies began long before, and with no shortage of drama. On Wednesday afternoon, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan’s Churu district, killing both pilots on board. The aircraft, which had taken off from the Suratgarh air base, went down in an agricultural field in Bhanoda village at around 1:25 p.m., according to police officials. The IAF confirmed in a statement, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.” There was no damage reported to civilian property. Also read: How did Iran get American F-14 'Tomcats' fighter jet, and why is it still flying them years after US retired them? While investigations are underway, the tragedy has reignited interest in the SEPECAT Jaguar, once a modern deep strike aircraft. Here's the story of how Jaguar made its way to IAF Initially, the Indian Air Force wasn’t particularly interested in the Jaguar. Its hopes were pinned on the indigenous HF-24 ‘Marut’, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). However, after the death of HAL’s chief test pilot in a prototype crash in 1970, it became clear that the Marut wouldn’t meet the IAF’s requirement for a Deep Penetration Strike Aircraft (DPSA). Though the Marut served admirably in the 1971 war, its limitations, mainly in power and avionics, meant the IAF had to look elsewhere. Once the Marut was ruled out, the Jaguar quickly became India’s top choice. SEPECAT Jaguar was initially ignored Interestingly, SEPECAT had pitched the Jaguar to India as early as 1968, even before the aircraft’s maiden flight. But the IAF, still scarred from its poor experience with the Folland Gnat (another British jet), showed no enthusiasm. It even turned down a low-cost offer and barely responded during formal presentations by legendary test pilots Jeffrey Quill and Jimmy Dell. IAF wanted twin engines During the mid-1970s, other competitors like France’s Mirage F1 and Sweden’s Viggen entered the race. However, the IAF wanted a twin-engine aircraft, ruling out both single-engine options. Britain’s then-Prime Minister James Callaghan had to personally assure India there would be no future arms sanctions, a promise that helped make Jaguar’s entry easy. After the Emergency period, the new government pushed ahead with the DPSA project. An Indian team visited France, Sweden, and the UK in early 1978. By October that year, the government officially selected the Jaguar. British Aerospace (BAe) had already formed, consolidating several major aviation firms. A deal was signed in April 1979 for around 130 aircraft, including licence production in India and technology transfer. Arrival of the Jaguar On 27 July 1979, the first two Jaguars landed in India. These aircraft ushered in a new phase for the IAF, replacing outdated platforms like the Canberra and the Hunter. The Jaguar gave India its much-needed edge in low-level interdiction and deep-strike missions.

The IAF confirmed in a statement, “An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission… Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.” There was no damage reported to civilian property.

‘Initially ignored, then became India’s deep-strike warrior’: How the Jaguar finally won over the Indian Air Force

Canada higher education crisis: Indians and other international students are slowly removing Canada as a favourite destination for higher education, and the country is feeling the pinch now. The Trudeau-era crackdowns on immigration, including on international student visas and work permits, have contributed to a crisis in Canada's higher education system. Many colleges are laying off staff and rolling back several programmes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Ontario college layoffs are a sign of the times</h2>In the latest, a report from Ontario said there were more than 10,000 college layoffs in the past year in Canada's most populous province. More than 600 programmes have been suspended, including in important sectors, across the province's 24 public colleges. This, said a report in The Star, represents “one of the largest mass layoffs in the province's history”.The layoffs and programme cuts have hit nearly every discipline: from nursing and business to culinary arts and forest management.<h2>Why are Canadian colleges laying off staff?</h2>The colleges are hit hard by policy changes on immigration, and years-long freezes on fees.But the main driver is the sharp decline in international student enrollment, especially from India.Federal immigration reforms, introduced by the government of former prime minister Justin Trudeau, and continued by the current administration of Mark Carney, contributed to this drop.The governments capped international study permits, amid diplomatic tensions with India.There was a 342 per cent rise in international enrolment between 2012 and 2021 in Canada. This had made many colleges financially dependent on international tuition revenues, which are much higher than domestic rates. It would be fair to say that it was the fee-paying foreign students who kept the Canadian higher education system going.With these funds drying up gradually, the educational institutions are facing major budget shortfalls.<h2>The India connection to Canada higher education crisis</h2>In this context, remember that Indians constitute the largest number of international students in Canada.&nbsp;Historically, India has been Canada’s largest source country for international students.But in recent years, there has been a massive drop. Indian student enrolments in Canada dropped by 41 per cent in 2024, from 233,500 in 2023 to 137,600, as per recent data.<h2>Impact on Canadian education</h2>Budget constraints meant that Ontario's higher education sector lost one-sixth of its 60,000-strong workforce, including both full- and part-time roles.Institutes like Centennial College alone suspended 116 programmes, according to the Star report.The cuts affected both urban and rural areas.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-sanjay-verma-concerned-about-state-of-indian-students-in-canada-770623/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-sanjay-verma-concerned-about-state-of-indian-students-in-canada-770623/embed</a><h2>Blame game on cost-cutting in Canadian higher education sector</h2>&nbsp;Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) accused colleges of resisting transparency and mismanaging funds. The Star report quoted its President JP Hornick calling it a “manufactured crisis” while management classes expanded, and their salaries exploded.<h2>The future looks dark for Canada higher education&nbsp;</h2>The Ontario situation could be a shape of things to come for Canada's higher education system. More closures are likely, with privatisation of education looming large. This would mean limited access to community programmes, leading to a cascading effect on the Canadian society and quality of living.&nbsp;Rural and northern Canada economies, which relied heavily on college-trained workers, &nbsp;could be damaged.Ontario colleges alone serve half a million students each year. This makes the disruption caused by layoffs a serious threat to both education and the broader labour market, noted the Star report.

The Trudeau-era crackdowns on immigration, including on international student visas and work permits, have contributed to a crisis in Canada's higher education system. Many colleges are laying off staff

Canada higher education crisis: Indians and other international students are slowly removing Canada as a favourite destination for higher education, and the country is feeling the pinch now. The Trudeau-era crackdowns on immigration, including on international student visas and work permits, have contributed to a crisis in Canada's higher education system. Many colleges are laying off staff and rolling back several programmes. Ontario college layoffs are a sign of the times In the latest, a report from Ontario said there were more than 10,000 college layoffs in the past year in Canada's most populous province. More than 600 programmes have been suspended, including in important sectors, across the province's 24 public colleges. This, said a report in The Star, represents “one of the largest mass layoffs in the province's history”. The layoffs and programme cuts have hit nearly every discipline: from nursing and business to culinary arts and forest management. Why are Canadian colleges laying off staff? The colleges are hit hard by policy changes on immigration, and years-long freezes on fees. But the main driver is the sharp decline in international student enrollment, especially from India. Federal immigration reforms, introduced by the government of former prime minister Justin Trudeau, and continued by the current administration of Mark Carney, contributed to this drop. The governments capped international study permits, amid diplomatic tensions with India. There was a 342 per cent rise in international enrolment between 2012 and 2021 in Canada. This had made many colleges financially dependent on international tuition revenues, which are much higher than domestic rates. It would be fair to say that it was the fee-paying foreign students who kept the Canadian higher education system going. With these funds drying up gradually, the educational institutions are facing major budget shortfalls. The India connection to Canada higher education crisis In this context, remember that Indians constitute the largest number of international students in Canada. Historically, India has been Canada’s largest source country for international students. But in recent years, there has been a massive drop. Indian student enrolments in Canada dropped by 41 per cent in 2024, from 233,500 in 2023 to 137,600, as per recent data. Impact on Canadian education Budget constraints meant that Ontario's higher education sector lost one-sixth of its 60,000-strong workforce, including both full- and part-time roles. Institutes like Centennial College alone suspended 116 programmes, according to the Star report. The cuts affected both urban and rural areas. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-sanjay-verma-concerned-about-state-of-indian-students-in-canada-770623/embed Blame game on cost-cutting in Canadian higher education sector Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) accused colleges of resisting transparency and mismanaging funds. The Star report quoted its President JP Hornick calling it a “manufactured crisis” while management classes expanded, and their salaries exploded. The future looks dark for Canada higher education The Ontario situation could be a shape of things to come for Canada's higher education system. More closures are likely, with privatisation of education looming large. This would mean limited access to community programmes, leading to a cascading effect on the Canadian society and quality of living. Rural and northern Canada economies, which relied heavily on college-trained workers, could be damaged. Ontario colleges alone serve half a million students each year. This makes the disruption caused by layoffs a serious threat to both education and the broader labour market, noted the Star report.

The Trudeau-era crackdowns on immigration, including on international student visas and work permits, have contributed to a crisis in Canada's higher education system. Many colleges are laying off staff and rolling back several programmes.&nbsp;

10,000 Ontario college layoffs, 600 programmes scrapped: Canada education is hurting, and there may be an India connection

A couple from Kerala, based in Bengaluru's Ramamurthy Nagar has been accused of chit fund scam worth over ₹40 crore. The couple identified as Tomy and Shiny have been living in Bengaluru for the past 25 years and were running 'A&amp;A Chits and Finance', a chit fund institution offering high returns, ranging between 15 to 20 per cent on investments. Now, police have registered a case against them for siphoning large sum of money and launched an investigation after more than 260 complaints were filed against them. The case surfaced when an investor PT Savio claimed he lost ₹70 lakh in the scheme.&nbsp;As per multiple reports, the couple initially offered good returns with an aim to build confidence. However, the payout stopped recently and the couple went incommunicado. According to the FIR filed at the Ramamurthy Nagar Police Station, the couple convinced people to invest their life savings, money set aside for children's education, medical expenses, and weddings. Some even sold off property to invest in what they thought was a secure financial scheme.&nbsp;As per a report in Onmanorama, an investor from Kerala said, "They promised returns of 12-13% which seemed good. They promptly credited the interest also, earning our trust. So I asked my daughter and son to invest. Another friend also invested his savings," said a complainant who did not want to be named for this article. An investor had met with Tomy three months ago and said that he would require funds for a personal emergency in July. "He agreed to it. There was no reason to doubt him. But since last week, the couple was missing. Both of them regularly came to the office, and when we asked the staff, they were clueless. We contacted them via phone and there was no answer."&nbsp;Meanwhile, an office-bearer of the Bengaluru-based collective of Malayalis said that Tomy regularly attended community gatherings and church meetings. "They canvassed people to invest savings in their chit fund. The interest rate was attractive and they had a long history which naturally inspired trust," he said. Many of the investors who filed complaints on Monday have associated with the chit fund for a long term. "It started with my father and then my sister and I deposited our funds. There was never a reason to suspect them," a woman said. Police have launched a manhunt to find the duo.

In a real-life version of Phir Hera Pheri's chit fund scam, a Kerala-origin couple has allegedly duped hundreds in Bengaluru after running a ₹100-crore ($12 million) chit fund scam that promised sky-high returns 

A couple from Kerala, based in Bengaluru's Ramamurthy Nagar has been accused of chit fund scam worth over ₹40 crore. The couple identified as Tomy and Shiny have been living in Bengaluru for the past 25 years and were running 'A&A Chits and Finance', a chit fund institution offering high returns, ranging between 15 to 20 per cent on investments. Now, police have registered a case against them for siphoning large sum of money and launched an investigation after more than 260 complaints were filed against them. The case surfaced when an investor PT Savio claimed he lost ₹70 lakh in the scheme. As per multiple reports, the couple initially offered good returns with an aim to build confidence. However, the payout stopped recently and the couple went incommunicado. According to the FIR filed at the Ramamurthy Nagar Police Station, the couple convinced people to invest their life savings, money set aside for children's education, medical expenses, and weddings. Some even sold off property to invest in what they thought was a secure financial scheme. As per a report in Onmanorama, an investor from Kerala said, "They promised returns of 12-13% which seemed good. They promptly credited the interest also, earning our trust. So I asked my daughter and son to invest. Another friend also invested his savings," said a complainant who did not want to be named for this article. An investor had met with Tomy three months ago and said that he would require funds for a personal emergency in July. "He agreed to it. There was no reason to doubt him. But since last week, the couple was missing. Both of them regularly came to the office, and when we asked the staff, they were clueless. We contacted them via phone and there was no answer." Meanwhile, an office-bearer of the Bengaluru-based collective of Malayalis said that Tomy regularly attended community gatherings and church meetings. "They canvassed people to invest savings in their chit fund. The interest rate was attractive and they had a long history which naturally inspired trust," he said. Many of the investors who filed complaints on Monday have associated with the chit fund for a long term. "It started with my father and then my sister and I deposited our funds. There was never a reason to suspect them," a woman said. Police have launched a manhunt to find the duo.

In a real-life version of Phir Hera Pheri's chit fund scam, a Kerala-origin couple has allegedly duped hundreds in Bengaluru after running a ₹40-crore ($5 million) chit fund scam that promised sky-high returns&nbsp;

Phir Hera Pheri style $5 million chit fund scam: How Kerala couple Tomy and Shiny duped people in Bengaluru and fled

Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, said on Wednesday that China's proposed dam near the border will prove to be a ticking water bomb for India. In an interview, he said that the dam, billed as the world's largest dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra river, will be an existential threat to New Delhi because Beijing isn't a signatory to international water treaties.&nbsp;Khandu said China can't be trusted, as no one can predict what it might end up doing. He said Beijing may use the dam as a water bomb against India.&nbsp;"Setting aside the military threat from China, it seems to me that this is a far bigger issue than anything else. It is going to cause an existential threat to our tribes and our livelihoods. It is quite serious because China could even use this as a sort of 'water bomb'," he told PTI.&nbsp;China approved the construction of the mega dam in 2024. The $137 billion project will take five years to complete, and it will produce 60,000 MW of power.&nbsp;Khandu said it might not be an issue for India if China had signed the international water treaty. He said several areas of the state would be inundated if Beijing decides to release the water suddenly.&nbsp;"But China is not a signatory, and that is the problem... Suppose the dam is built and they suddenly release water, our entire Siang belt would be destroyed. In particular, the Adi tribe and similar groups... would see all their property, land, and especially human life, suffer devastating effects," he said.&nbsp;To counter China's project, the Chief Minister said, the Arunachal Pradesh government has conceived a project called the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, which will serve as a defence mechanism and ensure water security.&nbsp;"I believe China is either about to start or has already started work on their side. But they do not share any information. In the long run, if the dam is completed, our Siang and Brahmaputra rivers could dry up considerably," he said.&nbsp;For India's water security, he said, if the government can complete its project as planned, it will be able to meet the water requirements from its dam.&nbsp;He further said that if China releases water, India will be able to contain the flooding with its dam. He said the state government has been holding discussions with the local tribes over the project.

Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, said on Wednesday that China's proposed dam near the border will prove to be a ticking water bomb. 

Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, said on Wednesday that China's proposed dam near the border will prove to be a ticking water bomb for India. In an interview, he said that the dam, billed as the world's largest dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra river, will be an existential threat to New Delhi because Beijing isn't a signatory to international water treaties. Khandu said China can't be trusted, as no one can predict what it might end up doing. He said Beijing may use the dam as a water bomb against India. "Setting aside the military threat from China, it seems to me that this is a far bigger issue than anything else. It is going to cause an existential threat to our tribes and our livelihoods. It is quite serious because China could even use this as a sort of 'water bomb'," he told PTI. China approved the construction of the mega dam in 2024. The $137 billion project will take five years to complete, and it will produce 60,000 MW of power. Khandu said it might not be an issue for India if China had signed the international water treaty. He said several areas of the state would be inundated if Beijing decides to release the water suddenly. "But China is not a signatory, and that is the problem... Suppose the dam is built and they suddenly release water, our entire Siang belt would be destroyed. In particular, the Adi tribe and similar groups... would see all their property, land, and especially human life, suffer devastating effects," he said. To counter China's project, the Chief Minister said, the Arunachal Pradesh government has conceived a project called the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, which will serve as a defence mechanism and ensure water security. "I believe China is either about to start or has already started work on their side. But they do not share any information. In the long run, if the dam is completed, our Siang and Brahmaputra rivers could dry up considerably," he said. For India's water security, he said, if the government can complete its project as planned, it will be able to meet the water requirements from its dam. He further said that if China releases water, India will be able to contain the flooding with its dam. He said the state government has been holding discussions with the local tribes over the project.

Pema Khandu said China can't be trusted, as no one can predict what it might end up doing. He said Beijing may use the dam as a water bomb in case of a conflict with India.

China can unleash 'water bomb' but Arunachal has a 'counter' plan | Details inside

An Air Force plane has crashed in Rajasthan's Churu on Wednesday (July 9). The video of the incident is doing the rounds on social media. The plane was found in pieces in Churu after the crash. Initial reports claimed that the body of the pilot was also found. News agency ANI, quoting defence sources, said that the aircraft was a Jaguar fighter aircraft and more details are awaited. Earlier in April, an Air Force Jaguar fighter aircraft crashed near Gujarat's Jamnagar. The Air Force has several bases Rajasthan's Jodhpur and Bikaner.&nbsp;Issuing a statement, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said that both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident. The statement added that there was no damage to any civil property. It also said that a court of inquiry has been constituted, to ascertain the cause of the accident.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission and crashed near Churu in Rajasthan, today. Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident. No damage to any civil property has been reported. IAF deeply regrets the loss of lives and…&mdash; Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1942888015635861696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewsAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewsAlert</a> | IAF fighter jet crashes near Rajasthan’s Churu More details awaited <a href="https://t.co/9pVDAqMXPt">pic.twitter.com/9pVDAqMXPt</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1942859996703908185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This is a developing story.

An Air Force plane has crashed in Rajasthan's Churu on Wednesday (July 9). The video of the incident is doing the rounds on social media. 

An Air Force plane has crashed in Rajasthan's Churu on Wednesday (July 9). The video of the incident is doing the rounds on social media. The plane was found in pieces in Churu after the crash. Initial reports claimed that the body of the pilot was also found. News agency ANI, quoting defence sources, said that the aircraft was a Jaguar fighter aircraft and more details are awaited. Earlier in April, an Air Force Jaguar fighter aircraft crashed near Gujarat's Jamnagar. The Air Force has several bases Rajasthan's Jodhpur and Bikaner. Issuing a statement, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said that both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident. The statement added that there was no damage to any civil property. It also said that a court of inquiry has been constituted, to ascertain the cause of the accident.

An Air Force plane has crashed in Rajasthan's Churu on Wednesday (July 9). The video of the incident is doing the rounds on social media.&nbsp;

Indian Air Force fighter jet crashes in Rajasthan's Churu, two pilots killed

A new era in naval defence has dawned for India with the successful development and user trials of the&nbsp;Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR). This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats from significantly greater distances. Its induction marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards true self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technology.As the global maritime landscape becomes increasingly complex, with advanced submarines operating with enhanced stealth and sophistication, the ERASR offers India a crucial strategic advantage. It empowers the Indian Navy to maintain a vigilant watch over vast oceanic regions, safeguarding its extensive coastline and vital national interests in the Indian Ocean.<h2>Beyond the Horizon: Extending India's Reach Below the Waves</h2>Previously, the Indian Navy's anti-submarine rockets had a limited engagement range of up to 5.3 kilometres. While effective for close-range combat, this offered minimal reaction time against faster, more elusive underwater adversaries. The ERASR dramatically expands this strike envelope to approximately&nbsp;8.5 km – an impressive increase of nearly 60%. This extended reach means the Navy can now identify and neutralise threats much earlier, and from a safer standoff distance, significantly bolstering its defensive and offensive capabilities.The technological advancements embedded in ERASR are a testament to India's engineering prowess. Unlike older systems that relied on a single-stage motor, ERASR incorporates a&nbsp;two-stage solid propulsion system. This innovative design enables the rocket to efficiently cover both short and long distances with remarkable accuracy. Further enhancing its precision is a specialised, indigenously developed&nbsp;Electronic Time Fuze, engineered to ensure the warhead detonates at the optimal moment, maximising the chances of destroying the target.Between June 23 and July 7, 2025, the Indian Navy conducted a comprehensive series of user trials for the ERASR system from its advanced warship, INS Kavaratti. A total of 17 rockets were test-fired under authentic sea conditions, with each performing flawlessly. These rigorous trials meticulously evaluated the rocket's maximum range performance, the flawless operation of its electronic fuze, and the warhead's precise targeting accuracy. The resounding success of these trials, officially announced by the Press Information Bureau on the evening of July 8, confirms ERASR's readiness for immediate induction into regular Navy service.<h2>A Pillar of "Make in India" in Defence</h2>The ERASR is a product of collaborative excellence, primarily developed by the&nbsp;Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, a key laboratory under the&nbsp;Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The project also received invaluable technical expertise and support from the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory.One of ERASR's most significant advantages is its inherent compatibility with the&nbsp;Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) system&nbsp;already deployed on Indian Navy ships. This "fit-and-forget" design means the Navy avoids the need for expensive new platforms or extensive modifications to its existing warships, making the upgrade process both rapid and highly cost-effective.Crucially, the entire production of ERASR will also be undertaken within India, significantly strengthening the government's flagship 'Make in India' initiative.&nbsp;Bharat Dynamics Limited in Hyderabad&nbsp;and&nbsp;Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in Nagpur&nbsp;have been selected as the dedicated production partners. This strategic move not only drastically reduces India's reliance on foreign defence equipment but also fosters domestic job creation and bolsters local industries, demonstrating India's capability to design, develop, and manufacture advanced weapons systems entirely with its own resources and talent.Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the concerted efforts of the DRDO, the Indian Navy, and the industry partners involved in the ERASR's development and testing. He underscored that the induction of this new system will provide a substantial boost to the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and powerfully demonstrate the government's unwavering commitment to nurturing homegrown defence capabilities. The Defence Ministry affirmed that this achievement represents a major milestone in India's long-term aspiration of becoming fully self-reliant in defence production. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed</a>&nbsp;The Indian Ocean region, a critical artery for global trade, is experiencing increasing submarine activity. Protecting India's vast 7,500-kilometre coastline and vital maritime trade routes is paramount. The ERASR equips the Indian Navy with the proactive tools necessary to counter evolving underwater threats effectively and assert control over crucial sea lanes. It is a timely and indispensable addition to India's defence arsenal. More than just a potent weapon, ERASR stands as a beacon of what Indian scientists, engineers, and industries can achieve when united in purpose. It symbolises India's surging confidence in building high-end military technology and signals to the world that India is resolutely prepared to protect its interests with strength, innovation, and unwavering self-reliance.

This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats 

A new era in naval defence has dawned for India with the successful development and user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR). This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats from significantly greater distances. Its induction marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards true self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technology. As the global maritime landscape becomes increasingly complex, with advanced submarines operating with enhanced stealth and sophistication, the ERASR offers India a crucial strategic advantage. It empowers the Indian Navy to maintain a vigilant watch over vast oceanic regions, safeguarding its extensive coastline and vital national interests in the Indian Ocean. Beyond the Horizon: Extending India's Reach Below the Waves Previously, the Indian Navy's anti-submarine rockets had a limited engagement range of up to 5.3 kilometres. While effective for close-range combat, this offered minimal reaction time against faster, more elusive underwater adversaries. The ERASR dramatically expands this strike envelope to approximately 8.5 km – an impressive increase of nearly 60%. This extended reach means the Navy can now identify and neutralise threats much earlier, and from a safer standoff distance, significantly bolstering its defensive and offensive capabilities. The technological advancements embedded in ERASR are a testament to India's engineering prowess. Unlike older systems that relied on a single-stage motor, ERASR incorporates a two-stage solid propulsion system. This innovative design enables the rocket to efficiently cover both short and long distances with remarkable accuracy. Further enhancing its precision is a specialised, indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze, engineered to ensure the warhead detonates at the optimal moment, maximising the chances of destroying the target. Between June 23 and July 7, 2025, the Indian Navy conducted a comprehensive series of user trials for the ERASR system from its advanced warship, INS Kavaratti. A total of 17 rockets were test-fired under authentic sea conditions, with each performing flawlessly. These rigorous trials meticulously evaluated the rocket's maximum range performance, the flawless operation of its electronic fuze, and the warhead's precise targeting accuracy. The resounding success of these trials, officially announced by the Press Information Bureau on the evening of July 8, confirms ERASR's readiness for immediate induction into regular Navy service. A Pillar of "Make in India" in Defence The ERASR is a product of collaborative excellence, primarily developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, a key laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The project also received invaluable technical expertise and support from the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory. One of ERASR's most significant advantages is its inherent compatibility with the Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) system already deployed on Indian Navy ships. This "fit-and-forget" design means the Navy avoids the need for expensive new platforms or extensive modifications to its existing warships, making the upgrade process both rapid and highly cost-effective. Crucially, the entire production of ERASR will also be undertaken within India, significantly strengthening the government's flagship 'Make in India' initiative. Bharat Dynamics Limited in Hyderabad and Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in Nagpur have been selected as the dedicated production partners. This strategic move not only drastically reduces India's reliance on foreign defence equipment but also fosters domestic job creation and bolsters local industries, demonstrating India's capability to design, develop, and manufacture advanced weapons systems entirely with its own resources and talent. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the concerted efforts of the DRDO, the Indian Navy, and the industry partners involved in the ERASR's development and testing. He underscored that the induction of this new system will provide a substantial boost to the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and powerfully demonstrate the government's unwavering commitment to nurturing homegrown defence capabilities. The Defence Ministry affirmed that this achievement represents a major milestone in India's long-term aspiration of becoming fully self-reliant in defence production. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navys-ins-tarkash-seizes-over-2500-kg-of-narcotics-8919733/embed The Indian Ocean region, a critical artery for global trade, is experiencing increasing submarine activity. Protecting India's vast 7,500-kilometre coastline and vital maritime trade routes is paramount. The ERASR equips the Indian Navy with the proactive tools necessary to counter evolving underwater threats effectively and assert control over crucial sea lanes. It is a timely and indispensable addition to India's defence arsenal. More than just a potent weapon, ERASR stands as a beacon of what Indian scientists, engineers, and industries can achieve when united in purpose. It symbolises India's surging confidence in building high-end military technology and signals to the world that India is resolutely prepared to protect its interests with strength, innovation, and unwavering self-reliance.

This powerful, fully indigenous weapon system is poised to transform the Indian Navy's capabilities, acting as a formidable "underwater guardian" that can detect and neutralise hidden submarine threats&nbsp;

The Silent Guardian: ERASR Extends India's Reach Below the Surface

In a television interview, Pakistan's former Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar was fact-checked about the viral image of a global terrorist with the Pakistan Army present at the funeral of terrorists killed by India during Operation Sindoor. During an interview with Al Jazeera, Khar claimed that the person in the viral image was not a terrorist. However, she was interrupted by the interviewer who said that Pakistan Army did not say the image was fake in press conferences after India's Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;"I am telling you, with authority, with evidence which has been shared with the whole world, that this is not the man that you (India) are claiming it to be. That this is not the man that you are claiming it to be. There are a million Abdul Raufs in Pakistan," the Pakistani politician said, showing the widely circulated image of Rauf at the funeral procession.&nbsp;"They said that he's a member of a political party, and they released his national ID number. That ID number is the same one as on the US sanctions list. So, according to the US sanctions terrorist list, this man is a terrorist," the journalist told Khar. On this, Khar again attempted to claim that the man on the photo and the terrorist are different people. "The Pakistani army is defending this man (in viral photo). The Pakistani army is not defending the person who is proscribed by the US. The ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations of Pakistan Army) categorically has said that this is not the same person, and you just sat over here and told me that they just defended him and did not say it is not the same person." Nevertheless, the interviewer reminded her that the national ID numbers of the US-designated terrorist and the man in the photo are the same.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former Pak Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, speaking to Al-Jazeera, says that thousands of Abdur Raufs (terrorists) exist in Pakistan. Pak military officials have attended many funerals.... Pakistan leaders have gone totally morally bankrupt! <a href="https://t.co/sRJRVMWSe4">pic.twitter.com/sRJRVMWSe4</a>&mdash; Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeghUpdates/status/1942765168116535560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During an interview with Al Jazeera, Pakistani leader Hina Rabbani Khar claimed that the person in the viral image shown by India was not a terrorist. However, she was interrupted by the interviewer, who said that the Pakistan Army did not say the image was fake 

In a television interview, Pakistan's former Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar was fact-checked about the viral image of a global terrorist with the Pakistan Army present at the funeral of terrorists killed by India during Operation Sindoor. During an interview with Al Jazeera, Khar claimed that the person in the viral image was not a terrorist. However, she was interrupted by the interviewer who said that Pakistan Army did not say the image was fake in press conferences after India's Operation Sindoor. "I am telling you, with authority, with evidence which has been shared with the whole world, that this is not the man that you (India) are claiming it to be. That this is not the man that you are claiming it to be. There are a million Abdul Raufs in Pakistan," the Pakistani politician said, showing the widely circulated image of Rauf at the funeral procession. "They said that he's a member of a political party, and they released his national ID number. That ID number is the same one as on the US sanctions list. So, according to the US sanctions terrorist list, this man is a terrorist," the journalist told Khar. On this, Khar again attempted to claim that the man on the photo and the terrorist are different people. "The Pakistani army is defending this man (in viral photo). The Pakistani army is not defending the person who is proscribed by the US. The ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations of Pakistan Army) categorically has said that this is not the same person, and you just sat over here and told me that they just defended him and did not say it is not the same person." Nevertheless, the interviewer reminded her that the national ID numbers of the US-designated terrorist and the man in the photo are the same.

During an interview with Al Jazeera, Pakistani leader Hina Rabbani Khar claimed that the person in the viral image shown by India was not a terrorist. However, she was interrupted by the interviewer, who said that the Pakistan Army did not say the image was fake&nbsp;

'There are million Abdul Raufs...': Pak leader Hina Rabbani embarrassed on TV for claiming terrorist as common man - Watch

Delhi-bound IndiGo Airlines flight (6E 5009) carrying 175 passengers from Patna encountered a bird strike soon after taking off from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, Bihar, on Wednesday morning. Following the strike, the aircraft was returned immediately after it had taken off from Patna at 8.42 am."All passengers are safe, and the aircraft returned safely after suffering a bird strike shortly after takeoff," said Krishna Mohan Nehra, Director of Patna Airport, Hindustan Times reported. "We are making alternate arrangements for the passengers, as the aircraft has been grounded," said an airline official.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/air-india-flight-ai-926-en-route-to-delhi-from-riyadh-diverted-to-jaipur-passengers-opt-for-road-travel-here-s-why-1751893681977">Air India flight AI 926 en route to Delhi from Riyadh diverted to Jaipur, Passengers opt for road travel—Here's why?</a>Meanwhile, the news agency PTI confirmed that following the bird's hit, one of the engines of the aircraft had developed a technical snag. All the 175 passengers and crew members were safe, officials said."IGO5009 Patna to Delhi reported bird hit after takeoff at 0842 IST, one dead bird in pieces found on runway during inspection. The same was advised to the aircraft through the Approach Control Unit. Message received from the approach control unit that aircraft requested to come back to Patna due to vibration in one engine. Local stand-by was declared and the aircraft landed safely at 0903 IST on runway 7. All passengers are safe," a statement issued by Patna airport said.<h3>Patna Airport: The 11 most critical airports in India</h3>Slaughterhouses in the Phulwari Sharif area near Patna Airport in Bihar have been drawing birds, raising safety concerns. The Airports Authority of India has continuously flagged the issue of bird activity near the airport to the Bihar government, citing the abattoirs as the cause.Patna Airport is marked as one of the 11 most critical airports in India due to several obstructions and its short runway. In response, the Bihar government has asked the Centre to send a multidisciplinary team to examine the obstructions and recommend solutions. In June, Bihar Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena wrote to the Civil Aviation Ministry's Secretary about the issue, according to a report by HT.However, the state is still waiting for a response, as the Centre has yet to dispatch the team.

After the birds hit the aircraft, one of the engines developed a technical snag, prompting the flight to return to the Patna airport immediately. Later,  the 175 passengers and crew members were found safe.

Delhi-bound IndiGo Airlines flight (6E 5009) carrying 175 passengers from Patna encountered a bird strike soon after taking off from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, Bihar, on Wednesday morning. Following the strike, the aircraft was returned immediately after it had taken off from Patna at 8.42 am. "All passengers are safe, and the aircraft returned safely after suffering a bird strike shortly after takeoff," said Krishna Mohan Nehra, Director of Patna Airport, Hindustan Times reported. "We are making alternate arrangements for the passengers, as the aircraft has been grounded," said an airline official. Also read: Air India flight AI 926 en route to Delhi from Riyadh diverted to Jaipur, Passengers opt for road travel—Here's why? Meanwhile, the news agency PTI confirmed that following the bird's hit, one of the engines of the aircraft had developed a technical snag. All the 175 passengers and crew members were safe, officials said. "IGO5009 Patna to Delhi reported bird hit after takeoff at 0842 IST, one dead bird in pieces found on runway during inspection. The same was advised to the aircraft through the Approach Control Unit. Message received from the approach control unit that aircraft requested to come back to Patna due to vibration in one engine. Local stand-by was declared and the aircraft landed safely at 0903 IST on runway 7. All passengers are safe," a statement issued by Patna airport said. Patna Airport: The 11 most critical airports in India Slaughterhouses in the Phulwari Sharif area near Patna Airport in Bihar have been drawing birds, raising safety concerns. The Airports Authority of India has continuously flagged the issue of bird activity near the airport to the Bihar government, citing the abattoirs as the cause. Patna Airport is marked as one of the 11 most critical airports in India due to several obstructions and its short runway. In response, the Bihar government has asked the Centre to send a multidisciplinary team to examine the obstructions and recommend solutions. In June, Bihar Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena wrote to the Civil Aviation Ministry's Secretary about the issue, according to a report by HT. However, the state is still waiting for a response, as the Centre has yet to dispatch the team.

After the birds hit the aircraft, one of the engines developed a technical snag, prompting the flight to return to the Patna airport immediately. Later, &nbsp;the 175 passengers and crew members were found safe.

Delhi-bound IndiGo flight with 175 onboard returns to Patna airport: Here's why

A labourer in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh found a massive diamond on the very first day of joining the mining operations. The diamond is worth approximately Rs 40 lakh ($46,500).&nbsp;The incident took place in the Panna district. The labourer, a tribal, went to dig for diamonds in the mines for the first time. He found an 11-karat 95-cent diamond.&nbsp;A senior officer of the district administration said that the value of the diamond is about Rs 40 lakh. The diamond is with the authorities. It will be auctioned off.&nbsp;According to the rules, the labourer would get a commission of 12.5 per cent of the price of the diamond (around Rs 5 lakh).&nbsp;Last year, another labourer found a massive diamond in a mine in Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;The 19.22-carat diamond was expected to fetch ($95,570) in a government auction.&nbsp;The lucky man was identified as Raju Gound, who had been mining for over 10 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;The central government's National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) runs a mechanised diamond mining project in Panna. It also leases shallow mines to individuals. Both these diamonds had been found in these shallow mines.&nbsp;&nbsp;The mines are leased for a paltry some of about Rs 250.&nbsp;&nbsp;These discoveries are rare. Many people have found such diamonds, but way smaller than these diamonds.&nbsp;Most of these miners face abject poverty. They scour for diamonds, often without any luck, to extricate themselves from poverty.

A labourer in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh found a massive diamond on the very first day of joining the mining operations. The diamond is worth approximately Rs 40 lakh ($46,700).

A labourer in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh found a massive diamond on the very first day of joining the mining operations. The diamond is worth approximately Rs 40 lakh ($46,500). The incident took place in the Panna district. The labourer, a tribal, went to dig for diamonds in the mines for the first time. He found an 11-karat 95-cent diamond. A senior officer of the district administration said that the value of the diamond is about Rs 40 lakh. The diamond is with the authorities. It will be auctioned off. According to the rules, the labourer would get a commission of 12.5 per cent of the price of the diamond (around Rs 5 lakh). Last year, another labourer found a massive diamond in a mine in Madhya Pradesh. The 19.22-carat diamond was expected to fetch ($95,570) in a government auction. The lucky man was identified as Raju Gound, who had been mining for over 10 years. The central government's National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) runs a mechanised diamond mining project in Panna. It also leases shallow mines to individuals. Both these diamonds had been found in these shallow mines. The mines are leased for a paltry some of about Rs 250. These discoveries are rare. Many people have found such diamonds, but way smaller than these diamonds. Most of these miners face abject poverty. They scour for diamonds, often without any luck, to extricate themselves from poverty.

The labourer, a tribal, went to dig for diamonds in the mines for the first time.

Labourer in Madhya Pradesh finds diamond worth $46,700. His earnings will be...

Indian space agency ISRO announced the recent successful completion of two engine firing tests of the system that will propel the Indian-made Gaganyaan astronaut-carrying capsule in space. Formally known as the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), it was tested at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;Two short duration test firings were conducted for 30seconds and 100seconds to validate the test article configuration. The overall performance of the propulsion system during these hot tests was normal, as per pre-test predictions. During the 100seconds test, simultaneous operation of all Reaction Control System thrusters(small engines) in different modes (steady state; pulsed) along with all Liquid Apogee Motors(primary engines) was also successfully demonstrated.&nbsp;ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) is leading the technology development activities for the Gaganyaan SMPS. SMPS is a critical system of Gaganyaan Orbital Module and is required during orbital manoeuvring as well as specific abort scenarios. Simply put, the thrusters will help the Gaganyaan capsule manoeuvre in space, change its orientation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The SMPS comprises five Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines (each generating 440Newtons of thrust) and 16 Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters (each generating 100Newtons of thrust). In order to simulate the propulsion system conditions closer to flight, the SMPS test article for these hot tests incorporated improvements based on experience gained from earlier hot tests. With the confidence gained through these hot tests, ISRO will conduct a full duration hot test shortly.<h2>Liquid apogee motor did not fire in NVS-02</h2>In January this year, ISRO launched the NVS-02 satellite, which is the second among five satellites in the NVS-series. This series is meant to provide Position, Navigation, and Timing services over the Indian subcontinent region(Indian mainland and 1500kms away from Indian borders). While the GSLV Mk2 rocket placed the NVS-02 in its intended initial orbit, the satellite's primary engine(liquid apogee motor) firings did not happen as planned, which left the satellite stuck in its initial orbit.&nbsp;The engine that failed in the NVS-02 mission is the 440Newton thruster which also finds place in the Gaganyaan SMPS. Almost all engines that propel ISRO's satellites are bipropellant engines, which means a fuel and oxidizer must come into contact for the engine firing to happen.&nbsp;&nbsp;ISRO uses Monomethyl Hydrazine(MMH) as fuel and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen(MON) as the oxidizer. This is known as a hypergolic combination, which means that the chemical reaction(burning) takes place as soon as the fuel and oxidizer come into contact with each other. Regarding the technical issue in the NVS-02 satellite, ISRO had said, "orbit raising operations towards positioning the satellite to the designated orbital slot could not be carried out as the valves for admitting the oxidizer to fire the thrusters for orbit raising did not open."&nbsp;Such setbacks would mean that ISRO has to further enhance its quality control, testing, given the crucial role played by the liquid apogee motors. While ISRO has not identified the exact cause that led to the NVS-02 failure, ISRO will be implementing some hardware and software changes in subsequent NVS satellites after thorough testing and analysis. Further, additional checkpoints, review mechanisms, verification methodologies are incorporated, ISRO revealed in response to an RTI(Right to Information) query.&nbsp;<h2>Preparations for Gaganyaan unmanned mission G-1</h2>This SMPS test is one among thousands of system and sub-system level testing that ISRO would be carrying out ahead of the Gaganyaan G1 mission, which is the maiden uncrewed flight of the Gaganyaan series. Instead of an astronaut, the uncrewed Gaganyaan craft would carry a humanoid robot Vyommitra to space and return to earth for a splashdown landing. ISRO intends to perform at least three flawless unmanned Gaganyaan missions, before putting astronauts on the Gaganyaan flight.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Formally known as the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), it was tested at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu

Indian space agency ISRO announced the recent successful completion of two engine firing tests of the system that will propel the Indian-made Gaganyaan astronaut-carrying capsule in space. Formally known as the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), it was tested at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. Two short duration test firings were conducted for 30seconds and 100seconds to validate the test article configuration. The overall performance of the propulsion system during these hot tests was normal, as per pre-test predictions. During the 100seconds test, simultaneous operation of all Reaction Control System thrusters(small engines) in different modes (steady state; pulsed) along with all Liquid Apogee Motors(primary engines) was also successfully demonstrated. ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) is leading the technology development activities for the Gaganyaan SMPS. SMPS is a critical system of Gaganyaan Orbital Module and is required during orbital manoeuvring as well as specific abort scenarios. Simply put, the thrusters will help the Gaganyaan capsule manoeuvre in space, change its orientation. The SMPS comprises five Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines (each generating 440Newtons of thrust) and 16 Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters (each generating 100Newtons of thrust). In order to simulate the propulsion system conditions closer to flight, the SMPS test article for these hot tests incorporated improvements based on experience gained from earlier hot tests. With the confidence gained through these hot tests, ISRO will conduct a full duration hot test shortly. Liquid apogee motor did not fire in NVS-02 In January this year, ISRO launched the NVS-02 satellite, which is the second among five satellites in the NVS-series. This series is meant to provide Position, Navigation, and Timing services over the Indian subcontinent region(Indian mainland and 1500kms away from Indian borders). While the GSLV Mk2 rocket placed the NVS-02 in its intended initial orbit, the satellite's primary engine(liquid apogee motor) firings did not happen as planned, which left the satellite stuck in its initial orbit. The engine that failed in the NVS-02 mission is the 440Newton thruster which also finds place in the Gaganyaan SMPS. Almost all engines that propel ISRO's satellites are bipropellant engines, which means a fuel and oxidizer must come into contact for the engine firing to happen. ISRO uses Monomethyl Hydrazine(MMH) as fuel and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen(MON) as the oxidizer. This is known as a hypergolic combination, which means that the chemical reaction(burning) takes place as soon as the fuel and oxidizer come into contact with each other. Regarding the technical issue in the NVS-02 satellite, ISRO had said, "orbit raising operations towards positioning the satellite to the designated orbital slot could not be carried out as the valves for admitting the oxidizer to fire the thrusters for orbit raising did not open." Such setbacks would mean that ISRO has to further enhance its quality control, testing, given the crucial role played by the liquid apogee motors. While ISRO has not identified the exact cause that led to the NVS-02 failure, ISRO will be implementing some hardware and software changes in subsequent NVS satellites after thorough testing and analysis. Further, additional checkpoints, review mechanisms, verification methodologies are incorporated, ISRO revealed in response to an RTI(Right to Information) query. Preparations for Gaganyaan unmanned mission G-1 This SMPS test is one among thousands of system and sub-system level testing that ISRO would be carrying out ahead of the Gaganyaan G1 mission, which is the maiden uncrewed flight of the Gaganyaan series. Instead of an astronaut, the uncrewed Gaganyaan craft would carry a humanoid robot Vyommitra to space and return to earth for a splashdown landing. ISRO intends to perform at least three flawless unmanned Gaganyaan missions, before putting astronauts on the Gaganyaan flight.

Formally known as the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), it was tested at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu

ISRO test fires engines that will propel Gaganyaan in space

In India, a nationwide strike, or "Bharat bandh," is organised by the central traders' union on Wednesday (Jul 9). The nationwide strike is supported by various sectors, including farmers and rural workers. &nbsp;The strike is likely to affect various services across the nation, disrupting banking services, transport services, postal services and key government operations in states like Bengaluru, Kolkata, Kerala and more. The general strike aims to oppose the labour codes, laws and economic policies of the government.&nbsp;More than 25 crore workers from different public sectors, formal/informal, organised/ unorganised, are participating in the nationwide strike. A forum of 10 central trade unions has called for a general strike or Bharat Bandh to oppose the "anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate" policies of the government. &nbsp;In a statement, the trade unions have urged the workers to make the nationwide general strike a 'grand success' and said preparations have been taken up in earnest by unions in all sectors of the formal and informal/unorganised economy. The major trade unions include INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC.&nbsp; The forum has also said that the government has not conducted the annual labour conference and continues to frame policies in contradiction to the interests of the labour force, attempting to impose four labour codes to weaken collective bargaining, to cripple unions' activities and&nbsp; to favour employers in the name of 'ease of doing business'.&nbsp;<h2>Are banking &amp; financial services closed?</h2> There is no official announcement on the closure of banks and ATMs. However, the normal course of services will be affected because the staff from the banking sector are also participating in the strike. The Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association, affiliated with&nbsp; All India Bank Employees Association ( AIBEA) said that the insurance sector will also join the strike.&nbsp;<h2>Are hospitals open?</h2> Essential services like hospitals are expected to function normally. However, you should plan accordingly as there are chances of road blocks and unavailability of buses, taxis, cabs and other transport. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Are schools and colleges open?</h2> Schools and colleges will remain open on July 9, as there has been no official notification of their closure.Other affected services include postal services, power supply, mining and coal services, railways, and public sector units.&nbsp;

Workers from 10 central trade unions called for a Bharat Bandh on July 9, affecting potential services like banking, insurance, public transport, schools and public sector units. The strike aims to oppose the labour codes and economic policies of the government.

In India, a nationwide strike, or "Bharat bandh," is organised by the central traders' union on Wednesday (Jul 9). The nationwide strike is supported by various sectors, including farmers and rural workers. The strike is likely to affect various services across the nation, disrupting banking services, transport services, postal services and key government operations in states like Bengaluru, Kolkata, Kerala and more. The general strike aims to oppose the labour codes, laws and economic policies of the government. More than 25 crore workers from different public sectors, formal/informal, organised/ unorganised, are participating in the nationwide strike. A forum of 10 central trade unions has called for a general strike or Bharat Bandh to oppose the "anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate" policies of the government. In a statement, the trade unions have urged the workers to make the nationwide general strike a 'grand success' and said preparations have been taken up in earnest by unions in all sectors of the formal and informal/unorganised economy. The major trade unions include INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. The forum has also said that the government has not conducted the annual labour conference and continues to frame policies in contradiction to the interests of the labour force, attempting to impose four labour codes to weaken collective bargaining, to cripple unions' activities and to favour employers in the name of 'ease of doing business'. Are banking & financial services closed? There is no official announcement on the closure of banks and ATMs. However, the normal course of services will be affected because the staff from the banking sector are also participating in the strike. The Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association, affiliated with All India Bank Employees Association ( AIBEA) said that the insurance sector will also join the strike. Are hospitals open? Essential services like hospitals are expected to function normally. However, you should plan accordingly as there are chances of road blocks and unavailability of buses, taxis, cabs and other transport. Are schools and colleges open? Schools and colleges will remain open on July 9, as there has been no official notification of their closure. Other affected services include postal services, power supply, mining and coal services, railways, and public sector units.

Workers from 10 central trade unions called for a Bharat Bandh on July 9, affecting potential services like banking, insurance, public transport, schools and public sector units. The strike aims to oppose the labour codes and economic policies of the government.

Bharat Bandh today: banks, schools, hospitals, what's open and what's closed?

At least nine people were killed as several vehicles fell into the Mahisagar River after a portion of the Gambhira Bridge collapsed in Gujarat's Vadodara on Wednesday. The police said at least 3-4 vehicles plunged into the river.&nbsp;"9 bodies have been recovered and 6 people have been rescued. The CM sent a high committee to the spot in the morning itself, and he sought a report at the earliest. Taking this very seriously, the CM has directed a team from the Roads and Buildings Department and other teams to go there and take concrete measures," said Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi.&nbsp;Anand Superintendent of Police (SP) Gaurav Jasani said at least three vehicles plunged into the river.&nbsp;"A part of the bridge connecting Anand and Vadodara has collapsed. Three to four vehicles have fallen into the river. Rescue operations are underway," Jasani said.&nbsp;The Gambhira Bridge connects Vadodara and Anand districts in Gujarat.&nbsp;Secretary of the Roads and Buildings Department, PR Patelia, said a team of technical experts had also been dispatched to assess the situation.&nbsp;"We have information of damage to the Gambhira bridge, which led to an accident. A team of experts has been sent to the site of the incident," he said.<h2>Congress attacks the BJP government</h2>The opposition Congress expressed condolences to the bereaved families.&nbsp;"In this accident, several vehicles fell into the river, resulting in the tragic death of some people and injuries to many others. The Congress family expresses deep condolences to the affected families. We also pray to God that He grants a speedy recovery to the injured,” Congress posts on X read.&nbsp;&nbsp;Taking a swipe at the BJP-led state government, the Congress said: "This accident exposes the rampant corruption carried out in the name of the 'Gujarat Model'."

Nine people were killed as several vehicles fell into the Mahisagar River after a portion of the Gambhira Bridge collapsed in Gujarat's Vadodara on Wednesday night. The police said at least 3-4 vehicles plunged into the river.

At least nine people were killed as several vehicles fell into the Mahisagar River after a portion of the Gambhira Bridge collapsed in Gujarat's Vadodara on Wednesday. The police said at least 3-4 vehicles plunged into the river. "9 bodies have been recovered and 6 people have been rescued. The CM sent a high committee to the spot in the morning itself, and he sought a report at the earliest. Taking this very seriously, the CM has directed a team from the Roads and Buildings Department and other teams to go there and take concrete measures," said Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi. Anand Superintendent of Police (SP) Gaurav Jasani said at least three vehicles plunged into the river. "A part of the bridge connecting Anand and Vadodara has collapsed. Three to four vehicles have fallen into the river. Rescue operations are underway," Jasani said. The Gambhira Bridge connects Vadodara and Anand districts in Gujarat. Secretary of the Roads and Buildings Department, PR Patelia, said a team of technical experts had also been dispatched to assess the situation. "We have information of damage to the Gambhira bridge, which led to an accident. A team of experts has been sent to the site of the incident," he said. Congress attacks the BJP government The opposition Congress expressed condolences to the bereaved families. "In this accident, several vehicles fell into the river, resulting in the tragic death of some people and injuries to many others. The Congress family expresses deep condolences to the affected families. We also pray to God that He grants a speedy recovery to the injured,” Congress posts on X read. Taking a swipe at the BJP-led state government, the Congress said: "This accident exposes the rampant corruption carried out in the name of the 'Gujarat Model'."

Vadodara bridge collapse: Anand Superintendent of Police (SP) Gaurav Jasani said at least three-four vehicles plunged into the river.

Vadodara-Anand Gambhira Bridge collapses; 4 vehicles fell into river, 9 killed

The nationwide General strike against the Government and its “anti-labour, anti-farmer and anti-people” policies by a total of 10 central trade unions and independent sectoral federations will be joined by more than 25 crore workers engaged in various sectors, including white collar employees in banking and insurance sectors employees in offices and shops, transport and hospitality sector workers, gig workers, public and private sector industry units and farmers.&nbsp;<h2>Which states are likely to be hit most by the Bharat bandh?</h2>Kerala: Kerala has seen a near shutdown. KRSTC buses are on the roads, and limited taxi and autorickshaw services are available. Schools and colleges are also likely to be affected due to high participation from teacher and employee organisations. While the Urban centres have seen limited disruptions, no major incidents of violence have been reported.Telangana: Telangana Rashtra Samithi, the ruling party, has stood in support of the protest, with Telangana becoming the worst-hit state in the protest. CM’s son K.T. Rama Rao will participate in the protest in Hyderabad.West Bengal: Roads are empty, shops are shut, and buses are running under heavy police deployment. West Bengal CM has extended her support to the bandh. She will sit near the Gandhi statue in central Kolkata in symbolic support.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Verbal spat erupts between workers of the left parties&#39; unions, and the Kolkata Police amid the &#39;Bharat Bandh&#39; rally. Ten central trade unions have called for a &#39;Bharat Bandh&#39;, alleging that the central government is pushing economic reforms that weaken… <a href="https://t.co/QkbV0QmyNc">pic.twitter.com/QkbV0QmyNc</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1942822779772191221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Punjab and Haryana: The epicentre of farmer movements, Punjab and Haryana saw markets closed in Amritsar, Moga, Sangrur, Mohali, Panipat and Ambala. Farmers are planning to reach the Tikri border with the Delhi government on high alert.&nbsp;Mumbai: Banks and postal services are likely to be affected. Trains, schools and private offices to run normally. All major agriculture and fruit markets remain shut, along with goods transporters. However BJP bastion of &nbsp;Nagpur remains functional.&nbsp;Assam: Even though it is a BJP-ruled state, Assam has witnessed a near-total shutdown, with transport services, shops and establishments to remain shut, and security presence has been tightened.Karnataka: Nearly 300 farmer organisations have joined in the Bharat Bandh protest in Karnataka. Farmer organisations will protest in their villages and towns due to logistical constraints. People around Bengaluru were called to join the protest near Vidhan Soudha, where the controversial APMC and land reform bill is in session.&nbsp;Nationwide, approximately 25 crore workers are protesting against the proposed labour code to be implemented on April 1. Almost 27 lakh electricity workers will join the Bharat Bandh protest against rampant privatisation by the government.

More than 25 crore workers from 10 central trade unions are joining in for the Bharat Bandh today, with Telangana, Kerala and West Bengal being the worst hit states.

The nationwide General strike against the Government and its “anti-labour, anti-farmer and anti-people” policies by a total of 10 central trade unions and independent sectoral federations will be joined by more than 25 crore workers engaged in various sectors, including white collar employees in banking and insurance sectors employees in offices and shops, transport and hospitality sector workers, gig workers, public and private sector industry units and farmers. Which states are likely to be hit most by the Bharat bandh? Kerala: Kerala has seen a near shutdown. KRSTC buses are on the roads, and limited taxi and autorickshaw services are available. Schools and colleges are also likely to be affected due to high participation from teacher and employee organisations. While the Urban centres have seen limited disruptions, no major incidents of violence have been reported. Telangana: Telangana Rashtra Samithi, the ruling party, has stood in support of the protest, with Telangana becoming the worst-hit state in the protest. CM’s son K.T. Rama Rao will participate in the protest in Hyderabad. West Bengal: Roads are empty, shops are shut, and buses are running under heavy police deployment. West Bengal CM has extended her support to the bandh. She will sit near the Gandhi statue in central Kolkata in symbolic support.

More than 25 crore workers from 10 central trade unions are joining in for the Bharat Bandh today, with Telangana, Kerala and West Bengal being the worst hit states.

Bharat bandh today: Which states are hit the most?

Trade unions affiliated with Left parties are observing a nationwide ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Wednesday, alleging that the central government is implementing economic reforms that undermine workers' rights. The shutdown has been called by 10 central trade unions.The protest is aimed at opposing what the groups allege are “pro-corporate and anti-worker” policies implemented by the government. Several workers across multiple sectors are expected to take part in the strike, which could significantly disrupt banking, transportation, and other key public services.Amid the strike, the general public is wondering which public services or facilities they will be able to utilise on Wednesday?<h3>Will public transport be open?</h3>Public buses, taxis, and app-based cab services are likely to be disrupted as trade unions plan to hold protest marches and road demonstrations across multiple cities. Hind Mazdoor Sabha member Harbhajan Singh Sidhu told news agency PTI that state transport services are likely to be affected due to the strike.The strike is likely to cause delays or cancellations in local transport services and logistics operations.In Odisha, members of the Khordha District unit of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) have blocked the national highway at Bhubaneswar to support the 'Bharat Bandh'. Additionally, shops and shopping malls in Kottayam, Kerala, remain closed in support of the strike called by 10 central trade unions.A members of the Left parties' union on Wednesday, blocked the Jadavpur railway station in West Bengal to mark their protest and the students' wing of RJD ha also blocked the train tracks at Jehanabad railway station in Bihar. Meanwhile, a bank employees' group has confirmed that the banking sector will be a part of the Bharat Bandh. The Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association, which is affiliated with the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), has publicly announced its support for the protest. In addition, the insurance sector is also expected to join the strike, according to a report in HT. &nbsp;

Mazdoor Sabha member Harbhajan Singh Sidhu told news agency PTI that state transport services are likely to be affected due to the strike. The protest is likely to cause delays or cancellations in local transport services and logistics operations.

Trade unions affiliated with Left parties are observing a nationwide ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Wednesday, alleging that the central government is implementing economic reforms that undermine workers' rights. The shutdown has been called by 10 central trade unions. The protest is aimed at opposing what the groups allege are “pro-corporate and anti-worker” policies implemented by the government. Several workers across multiple sectors are expected to take part in the strike, which could significantly disrupt banking, transportation, and other key public services. Amid the strike, the general public is wondering which public services or facilities they will be able to utilise on Wednesday? Will public transport be open? Public buses, taxis, and app-based cab services are likely to be disrupted as trade unions plan to hold protest marches and road demonstrations across multiple cities. Hind Mazdoor Sabha member Harbhajan Singh Sidhu told news agency PTI that state transport services are likely to be affected due to the strike. The strike is likely to cause delays or cancellations in local transport services and logistics operations. In Odisha, members of the Khordha District unit of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) have blocked the national highway at Bhubaneswar to support the 'Bharat Bandh'. Additionally, shops and shopping malls in Kottayam, Kerala, remain closed in support of the strike called by 10 central trade unions. A members of the Left parties' union on Wednesday, blocked the Jadavpur railway station in West Bengal to mark their protest and the students' wing of RJD ha also blocked the train tracks at Jehanabad railway station in Bihar. Meanwhile, a bank employees' group has confirmed that the banking sector will be a part of the Bharat Bandh. The Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association, which is affiliated with the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), has publicly announced its support for the protest. In addition, the insurance sector is also expected to join the strike, according to a report in HT.

Mazdoor Sabha member Harbhajan Singh Sidhu told news agency PTI that state transport services are likely to be affected due to the strike. The protest is likely to cause delays or cancellations in local transport services and logistics operations.

Are cabs, autos and other public transport working on Bharat Bandh? Here's what you should know before stepping out today

Mobile phone addiction: Indian parents, are you monitoring how much time your child spends on mobile phones, TV screens and computers daily? If it is more than two hours, it is double the recommended limit per day. This is the shocking claim made in a recent study, which found that even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, at an age that is supposed to be completely without screens.&nbsp;<h2>Why are children spending more time on TV and mobiles? How it starts way too early</h2>It starts quite early. Parents are now using mobile phones as pacifiers for children. It is not uncommon to see them switching on their mobile phones and handing them over to children, even babies, to stop them from crying. Many parents play the lullabies and nursery songs on YouTube and other apps to keep their child busy and engaged while they go about their chores. It is having a detrimental effect on the children.<h2>What does the shocking study say about Indian children's screen time?</h2>The new study was conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur. It concluded that kids aged below five in India are spending an average of 2.2 hours on screens, every day. This is double the recommended limit, said the study by Ashish Khobragade and M Swathi Shenoy of AIIMS Raipur.&nbsp; For children under two, the mean screen time is 1.2 hours, as per the study published in Cureus.&nbsp;For that age, most guidelines say that screentime should be completely avoided.<h2>Screentime can slow language development, says study on Indian children</h2>The study linked excessive screen exposure to a slowdown in language development, and decreased cognitive function.Poor social skills, obesity, disturbed sleep, and concentration problems are other side effects, said the research, which reached its conclusions based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 2,857 children.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed</a><h2>Tech-free zones, screen time limits, and offline interactions needed</h2>Among the suggestions made in the study are ‘tech-free zones’ and consistent screen time limits. It also recommended more offline interactions, which in plain terms means playing with other kids and spending time with parents and family members.&nbsp;Nearly 60-70 per cent of children under five years are spending more time on screen than recommended, Dr DK Gupta of Felix Hospitals told the Times of India newspaper in a report on the study.&nbsp;Gupta warned that excessive screentime could lead to "serious physical and behavioural problems."&nbsp;<h2>Lead by example: Parents should reduce their own screentime</h2>The main issue here is that parents these days use a lot of screen time, either for work or recreation. It is only natural for the child to be attracted to mobile phones and want to play, considering them as toys. Once hooked, it is really difficult to wean them off.Dr Gupta told ToI that parents should become role models and reduce their own screen time at home first.In the north indian city of Ghaziabad, a chief medical officer issued an advisory urging parents to engage kids in outdoor and social activities to counter mobile addiction.&nbsp;"I get children as young as 10- to 12-year-olds... complaining about restlessness" when screen use is limited, often showing aggressive behaviour," the ToI reported a doctor as saying.

Even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, whereas this age is supposed to be completely without screens.
 

Mobile phone addiction: Indian parents, are you monitoring how much time your child spends on mobile phones, TV screens and computers daily? If it is more than two hours, it is double the recommended limit per day. This is the shocking claim made in a recent study, which found that even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, at an age that is supposed to be completely without screens. Why are children spending more time on TV and mobiles? How it starts way too early It starts quite early. Parents are now using mobile phones as pacifiers for children. It is not uncommon to see them switching on their mobile phones and handing them over to children, even babies, to stop them from crying. Many parents play the lullabies and nursery songs on YouTube and other apps to keep their child busy and engaged while they go about their chores. It is having a detrimental effect on the children. What does the shocking study say about Indian children's screen time? The new study was conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur. It concluded that kids aged below five in India are spending an average of 2.2 hours on screens, every day. This is double the recommended limit, said the study by Ashish Khobragade and M Swathi Shenoy of AIIMS Raipur. For children under two, the mean screen time is 1.2 hours, as per the study published in Cureus. For that age, most guidelines say that screentime should be completely avoided. Screentime can slow language development, says study on Indian children The study linked excessive screen exposure to a slowdown in language development, and decreased cognitive function. Poor social skills, obesity, disturbed sleep, and concentration problems are other side effects, said the research, which reached its conclusions based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 2,857 children. https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed Tech-free zones, screen time limits, and offline interactions needed Among the suggestions made in the study are ‘tech-free zones’ and consistent screen time limits. It also recommended more offline interactions, which in plain terms means playing with other kids and spending time with parents and family members. Nearly 60-70 per cent of children under five years are spending more time on screen than recommended, Dr DK Gupta of Felix Hospitals told the Times of India newspaper in a report on the study. Gupta warned that excessive screentime could lead to "serious physical and behavioural problems." Lead by example: Parents should reduce their own screentime The main issue here is that parents these days use a lot of screen time, either for work or recreation. It is only natural for the child to be attracted to mobile phones and want to play, considering them as toys. Once hooked, it is really difficult to wean them off. Dr Gupta told ToI that parents should become role models and reduce their own screen time at home first. In the north indian city of Ghaziabad, a chief medical officer issued an advisory urging parents to engage kids in outdoor and social activities to counter mobile addiction. "I get children as young as 10- to 12-year-olds... complaining about restlessness" when screen use is limited, often showing aggressive behaviour," the ToI reported a doctor as saying.

Even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, whereas this age is supposed to be completely without screens. &nbsp;

Indian parents, BEWARE! Is your child spending over 2.5 hours on phones, computers, TV screens daily? That's…

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