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<p>India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will be in China this week for key Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO meetings, where the defence and NSAs meet. China is the chair of the grouping and will be holding a number of SCO-related meetings, including the foreign minister meetings and the summit, likely on September 1 in&nbsp;Tianjin.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian side will meet not only the Chinese counterpart, being the host, but also counterparts from Russia and Central Asia. The visits come as India, China normal ties after the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in October on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS summit. Since then, the Indian defence minister and the Chinese defence minister have met once &amp; Indian NSA has travelled to China for the Special Representative Level (SR) talks. Later this year, the Chinese FM Wang Yi is expected to travel to India for the SR level talks, on border issues.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>No meetings are scheduled with Pakistani counterparts, giving the continuous&nbsp;attempts by the country to support cross-border terror in India.&nbsp;Both Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif&nbsp;and newly appointed Pakistan's NSA, also the ISI Chief, Lt Gen Asim Malik are likely to be present at the SCO meetings given close ties with China.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The visit by NSA Doval and Defence Minister Singh coincides with the visit of the 1st batch of Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar. The pilgrimage was suspended after the COVID crisis and the 2020 India-China clashes in Eastern Ladakh. India's Ministry of external affairs is the nodal ministry to coordinate the visit, and though an online format accepts the applications. This year, of the 5,500 applications, 750 were accepted.</p>

China is the chair of the grouping and will be holding a number of SCO-related meetings, including the foreign minister meetings and the summit, likely on September 1 in Tianjin.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will be in China this week for key Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO meetings, where the defence and NSAs meet. China is the chair of the grouping and will be holding a number of SCO-related meetings, including the foreign minister meetings and the summit, likely on September 1 in Tianjin. The Indian side will meet not only the Chinese counterpart, being the host, but also counterparts from Russia and Central Asia. The visits come as India, China normal ties after the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in October on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS summit. Since then, the Indian defence minister and the Chinese defence minister have met once & Indian NSA has travelled to China for the Special Representative Level (SR) talks. Later this year, the Chinese FM Wang Yi is expected to travel to India for the SR level talks, on border issues. No meetings are scheduled with Pakistani counterparts, giving the continuous attempts by the country to support cross-border terror in India. Both Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and newly appointed Pakistan's NSA, also the ISI Chief, Lt Gen Asim Malik are likely to be present at the SCO meetings given close ties with China. The visit by NSA Doval and Defence Minister Singh coincides with the visit of the 1st batch of Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar. The pilgrimage was suspended after the COVID crisis and the 2020 India-China clashes in Eastern Ladakh. India's Ministry of external affairs is the nodal ministry to coordinate the visit, and though an online format accepts the applications. This year, of the 5,500 applications, 750 were accepted.

<p>China is the chair of the grouping and will be holding a number of SCO-related meetings, including the foreign minister meetings and the summit, likely on September 1 in&nbsp;Tianjin.</p>

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval to be in China this week

<p><strong>Israel-Iran War: </strong>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday (June 22) that he spoke to the Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, and has called for de-escalation amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war.</p><p><br>Taking to the social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Spoke with President of Iran @drpezeshkian. We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability."&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with President of Iran <a href="https://twitter.com/drpezeshkian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@drpezeshkian</a>. We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional…</p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1936721293682131386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>US joins Israel in war against Iran</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After claiming that he had no plans to bomb the Islamic Republic, US President Donald Trump joined Israel and launched an aerial strike in Iran targeting its nuclear facilities on Saturday (June 21). America struck three key nuke sites of Iran - Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan in its first intervention in the ongoing Israel-Iran war that started on June 13 after Israel struck Iran. In its strike on Iran's Fordow, the US reportedly used around 30,000-pound "bunker buster" bombs and weapons.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump announced the US intervention in the war on social media after striking the nuclear facilities of Iran. The American president called the airstrikes a "very successful military operation" against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led Iran.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Trump's eerie warning</strong></p><p><br>After striking Tehran, US President Donald Trump held a press briefing on Saturday (June 21) and called the strikes a "successful" military operation. Moreover, he said the objective of the strikes was the "destruction of Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity and a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world's number one state sponsor terror."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The American president said that the US and Israel worked as a "team" like "no team has ever worked before." He said, "We have gone a long way to erasing this horrible threat to Israel."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a straight warning, Trump said in his address, "There will be either peace, or there will be tragedy for Iran far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days.” He added that “Iran, bully of the Middle East, must now make peace."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Israel-Iran War: PM Modi speaks to Iranian president, calls for diplomacy

Israel-Iran War: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday (June 22) that he spoke to the Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, and has called for de-escalation amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war. Taking to the social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Spoke with President of Iran @drpezeshkian. We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability."

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday (June 22) that he spoke to the Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian,, and has called for de-escalation amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war.</p>

PM Modi speaks to Iranian president Pezeshkian after US strike, calls for 'immediate de-escalation

<p>It's been over a week since the British F-35 fighter jet that made an emergency landing at the Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala has failed to take off, as engineers of the aircraft have failed to fix the technical problem. They have not been successful in repairing the hydraulic problem due to which the jet could not take off.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are now plans to move the plane parked in bay 4 of the airport to a hangar as the repair may take time amid engineers are being called from the UK and the US.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Though the jet has blocked a bay at the airport, authorities say "We have enough bays to handle commercial aircraft. The presence of fighter jet is not an issue," reported the Times of India.</p><p>This is the first time that the US-made, fighter jet is stranded in a foreign country due to technical issues.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-arrests-2-for-sheltering-pakistani-terrorists-involved-in-pahalgam-terror-attack-1750573268423">NIA arrests 2 for sheltering Pakistani terrorists involved in Pahalgam terror attack</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Operating from the United Kingdom’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, the fighter jet was conducting a routine flying outside India’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) when it was diverted to Thiruvananthapuram, the designated emergency recovery airfield for the aircraft.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Initially, the fighter jet was facing a problem of low fuel and the Indian Air Force provided all necessary help. But after it was readying for departure that the jet experienced problem with its hydraulics and therefore could not take off, reported India Today, citing air force officials.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A maintenance team was called from Britain to fix the issue but they could not resolve the problem. A larger team from the United Kingdom and the US is now likely to come to Kerala and repair the issue with the plane's hydraulic.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

A larger team from the United Kingdom  and the US is now likely to come to Kerala and repair the technical snag.

It's been over a week since the British F-35 fighter jet that made an emergency landing at the Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala has failed to take off, as engineers of the aircraft have failed to fix the technical problem. They have not been successful in repairing the hydraulic problem due to which the jet could not take off. There are now plans to move the plane parked in bay 4 of the airport to a hangar as the repair may take time amid engineers are being called from the UK and the US. Though the jet has blocked a bay at the airport, authorities say "We have enough bays to handle commercial aircraft. The presence of fighter jet is not an issue," reported the Times of India. This is the first time that the US-made, fighter jet is stranded in a foreign country due to technical issues. Also Read: NIA arrests 2 for sheltering Pakistani terrorists involved in Pahalgam terror attack Operating from the United Kingdom’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, the fighter jet was conducting a routine flying outside India’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) when it was diverted to Thiruvananthapuram, the designated emergency recovery airfield for the aircraft. Initially, the fighter jet was facing a problem of low fuel and the Indian Air Force provided all necessary help. But after it was readying for departure that the jet experienced problem with its hydraulics and therefore could not take off, reported India Today, citing air force officials. A maintenance team was called from Britain to fix the issue but they could not resolve the problem. A larger team from the United Kingdom and the US is now likely to come to Kerala and repair the issue with the plane's hydraulic.

<p>A larger team from the United Kingdom &nbsp;and the US is now likely to come to Kerala and repair the technical snag.</p>

British F-35 fighter jet still stranded in Kerala, engineers to fly from UK, US to fix problem

<p>Several days after terrorists having links to Pakistan gunned down 26 people in the tourist location of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two men for harbouring the terrorists who carried out the horrifying attack. The identities of the three armed terrorists involved in the attack have als been revealed by Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, who were arrested from Pahalgam, reported news agency ANI. They have also confirmed the attackers were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Parvaiz and Bashir had given shelter to three armed terrorists at a hut at Hill Park, said NIA, as reported by the news agency. Both made sure that the terrorists, who selectively killed the tourists on the basis of their religious identity, were provided with food, shelter and logistical support by Parvaiz and Bashir.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both have been arrested under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The NIA is further investigating the case RC-02/2025/NIA/JMU, registered after the gruesome attack on April 22, 2025.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>(This is a developing story)</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

They have also confirmed the attackers were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Several days after terrorists having links to Pakistan gunned down 26 people in the tourist location of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two men for harbouring the terrorists who carried out the horrifying attack. The identities of the three armed terrorists involved in the attack have als been revealed by Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, who were arrested from Pahalgam, reported news agency ANI. They have also confirmed the attackers were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Parvaiz and Bashir had given shelter to three armed terrorists at a hut at Hill Park, said NIA, as reported by the news agency. Both made sure that the terrorists, who selectively killed the tourists on the basis of their religious identity, were provided with food, shelter and logistical support by Parvaiz and Bashir. Both have been arrested under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The NIA is further investigating the case RC-02/2025/NIA/JMU, registered after the gruesome attack on April 22, 2025. (This is a developing story)

<p>They have also confirmed the attackers were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).</p>

NIA arrests 2 for sheltering Pakistani terrorists involved in Pahalgam terror attack

<p>Late on Saturday night (June 21), fourth flight with 290 Indians landed at the New Delhi airport from Iran. The MEA in a post on X said, “<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hashtag_click">#OperationSindhu</a> gains momentum. 290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025. With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindhu</a> gains momentum. <br><br>290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025.<br><br>With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran. <a href="https://t.co/FScyeKslzw">pic.twitter.com/FScyeKslzw</a></p>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1936494125164921128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Earlier, India on Saturday (Jun 21) rescued 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, as the third special evacuation flight landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. &nbsp;Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu". Just hours earlier, late on Friday (Jun 20), another flight, this one from Mashhad, Iran, brought home 290 Indian students. The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran because of the worsening situation amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.</p><p><br>In a post on X, the Jammu and Kashmir student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for evacuating the students. The association wrote, “Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir, has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks, PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “Operation Sindhu flight brings citizens home. India evacuated 290 Indian nationals from Iran, including students and religious pilgrims by a charter flight. The flight arrived in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 20 June and was received by Secretary (CPV&amp; OIA) Arun Chatterjee.” “Government of India is grateful to the Government of Iran for the facilitation of the evacuation process.”</p>

Operation Sindhu: Fourth flight carrying 290 Indians from Iran lands in New Delhi

Late on Saturday night (June 21), fourth flight with 290 Indians landed at the New Delhi airport from Iran. The MEA in a post on X said, “#OperationSindhu gains momentum. 290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025. With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran.”

<p>With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran</p>

<p>All applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant US visas intended for students will need to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media accounts to ‘public,’ the State Department announced in a release on Saturday (June 21). The US visa is "a privilege, not a right", and its screening does not stop after a visa has been issued and authorities may revoke it if one breaks the law, it said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security. Under new guidance, we will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J non-immigrant classifications," the US State Department said.</p><p>The order to all applicants to change their social media profiles to a "public" setting will allow vetting of the candidates, it said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/R2fnZNUWDe">pic.twitter.com/R2fnZNUWDe</a></p>&mdash; Department of State (@StateDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept/status/1936411705044533332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>"Our overseas posts will resume scheduling F, M, and J non-immigrant visa applications soon. Applicants should check the relevant embassy or consulate website for appointment availability. Every visa adjudication is a national security decision.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans and our national interests, and that all applicants credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, including that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms for their admission," the State Department said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A few weeks back, The US Embassy in India in post on X said, “The United States continues to welcome legitimate travelers to our country. However, there is no right to visit the United States. We cannot and will not tolerate illegal entry, abuse of visas, or the violation of U.S. law.” On Monday (June 9), an Indian student was handcuffed and brutally pinned to the ground by officials at the Newark airport in the United States and deported back to India like a “criminal”, claimed a social media user who shared videos and pictures of the incident.</p><p><br>The disturbing video that showed the Indian student pinned to the floor was shared on social media by Indian-American entrepreneur Kunal Jain, who said that the youngster was crying and was treated like a “criminal” by authorities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jain called on the Indian Embassy in the United States to look into the incident and help the student. “I witnessed a young Indian student being deported from Newark Airport last night— handcuffed, crying, treated like a criminal,” he wrote on X. “He came chasing dreams, not causing harm. As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy,” added Jain, president of HealthBots AI.</p>

Making your profile public key to student visa? US sets new rule for university applicants

All applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant US visas intended for students will need to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media accounts to ‘public,’ the State Department announced in a release on Saturday (June 21). The US visa is "a privilege, not a right", and its screening does not stop after a visa has been issued and authorities may revoke it if one breaks the law, it said. "We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security. Under new guidance, we will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J non-immigrant classifications," the US State Department said. The order to all applicants to change their social media profiles to a "public" setting will allow vetting of the candidates, it said.

<p>The order to all applicants to change their social media profiles to a ‘public’ setting will allow vetting of the candidates</p>

<p>The coastline of India has increased by 3,582 km, or nearly 48 per cent after accurate measurements without any acquisition of territory. In addition, the country's islands have also increased slightly following the reassessment without changing the ground situation.</p><p>In the 1970s, the length of the coastline was measured at 7,516 km. But, following the assessment, it is now measured to be 11,098 km. The previous measurement was based on data that were of the scale of 1:4,500,000 or smaller. Later, with the passage of time, enhanced and accurate resolution data became available, calculating the length of the coastline using data that had a scale of 1:250,000, as per the Indian Express report.</p><p>Coastlines are naturally uneven and complex, but when data resolution improves, it’s like switching from a larger measuring stick to a smaller one. For instance, a one-kilometer ruler would overlook minor variations in the land’s shape that a one-meter ruler would easily detect.</p><p>With higher resolution, we can map the coastline’s curves and indentations in much finer detail. Lower-resolution data tends to smooth out these features, making jagged coastlines appear more linear, which results in a shorter total length.</p><h3>Can coastline be measured precisely?</h3><p>Previously, coastline measurements were done using traditional, manual techniques. Now, advanced GIS software allows for much more precise mapping of terrain irregularities. Another factor behind the increased length is the inclusion of coastal stretches of offshore islands that earlier calculations missed. These islands were often too small to show up in low-resolution maps or were excluded due to the limitations of manual measurement processes.</p><p>Although the newly revised measurement of India’s coastline is more accurate than before, it still doesn’t reflect the coastline’s true length. In reality, the exact length of India’s, or any, coastline cannot be precisely measured. This is due to what’s known as the coastline paradox.</p><p>Natural formations like coastlines are extremely irregular and don’t have a fixed length. The measured length depends entirely on the resolution used. The finer the measurement scale, the more details are captured, and the longer the coastline appears.</p><p>This paradox also applies to other natural features like mountain chains and river systems. Rivers, for instance, flow in winding, unpredictable paths, and their banks are rarely straight.</p><p>Trying to measure the length of a river by tracing its banks runs into the same issue as measuring a coastline. However, river lengths are typically measured along the main course rather than the edges, which avoids this complication.<br>&nbsp;</p>

With higher resolution, the coastline’s curves and indentations can be measured in much finer detail. Lower-resolution data tends to smooth out these features, making jagged coastlines appear more linear, which results in a shorter total length.


The coastline of India has increased by 3,582 km, or nearly 48 per cent after accurate measurements without any acquisition of territory. In addition, the country's islands have also increased slightly following the reassessment without changing the ground situation. In the 1970s, the length of the coastline was measured at 7,516 km. But, following the assessment, it is now measured to be 11,098 km. The previous measurement was based on data that were of the scale of 1:4,500,000 or smaller. Later, with the passage of time, enhanced and accurate resolution data became available, calculating the length of the coastline using data that had a scale of 1:250,000, as per the Indian Express report. Coastlines are naturally uneven and complex, but when data resolution improves, it’s like switching from a larger measuring stick to a smaller one. For instance, a one-kilometer ruler would overlook minor variations in the land’s shape that a one-meter ruler would easily detect. With higher resolution, we can map the coastline’s curves and indentations in much finer detail. Lower-resolution data tends to smooth out these features, making jagged coastlines appear more linear, which results in a shorter total length. Can coastline be measured precisely? Previously, coastline measurements were done using traditional, manual techniques. Now, advanced GIS software allows for much more precise mapping of terrain irregularities. Another factor behind the increased length is the inclusion of coastal stretches of offshore islands that earlier calculations missed. These islands were often too small to show up in low-resolution maps or were excluded due to the limitations of manual measurement processes. Although the newly revised measurement of India’s coastline is more accurate than before, it still doesn’t reflect the coastline’s true length. In reality, the exact length of India’s, or any, coastline cannot be precisely measured. This is due to what’s known as the coastline paradox. Natural formations like coastlines are extremely irregular and don’t have a fixed length. The measured length depends entirely on the resolution used. The finer the measurement scale, the more details are captured, and the longer the coastline appears. This paradox also applies to other natural features like mountain chains and river systems. Rivers, for instance, flow in winding, unpredictable paths, and their banks are rarely straight. Trying to measure the length of a river by tracing its banks runs into the same issue as measuring a coastline. However, river lengths are typically measured along the main course rather than the edges, which avoids this complication.

<p>With higher resolution, the coastline’s curves and indentations can be measured in much finer detail. Lower-resolution data tends to smooth out these features, making jagged coastlines appear more linear, which results in a shorter total length.<br>&nbsp;</p>

India’s coastline just got longer, ‘added’ more than 3,500 km —Know how it acquired

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Arrowhead, the celebrated tigress, who once roamed the heartlands of Ranthambore National Park, has died at the age of 14. The forest officials confirmed her death earlier this week. &nbsp;She died just hours after her daughter was relocated to another tiger reserve. Officially known as T-84, Arrowhead was an iconic figure among wildlife photographers, researchers, and regular visitors to the park. Wildlife photographer Sachin Rai, who had tracked Arrowhead since she was a cub, captured what is now believed to be her final moments. In a video, he posted on his Instagram, Rai documented her slow, laboured walk near Padam Talab on the evening of June 17. In the caption he described it as, “Each movement was a visible effort. In that quiet moment, I knew in my heart that the end was near."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Legacy and Lineage of Ranthambore’s Queen</strong></h2><p>Born in 2014, Arrowhead was part of a legendary tiger lineage. She was the daughter of Krishna (T-19) and granddaughter of Machhli (T-16), who is one of India’s most famous tigresses. Over the years, Arrowhead established her own territory, much of which overlapped with areas once ruled by her mother and grandmother, earning her the title ‘Queen of Ranthambore’ among park regulars.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rai wrote, “On the evening of June 17th, I witnessed what would likely be the last walk of the legendary tigress Arrowhead. It was heartbreaking to see her struggle, attempting to rise and take a few feeble steps before collapsing again.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLE32CTxbvC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLE32CTxbvC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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<h2>&nbsp;</h2><p>Her grandmother was famously known as the 'Crocodile Killer', and Arrowhead lived up to that legacy. Just days before her death, she was captured on video ambushing a crocodile despite her deteriorating health. The footage, showing her gripping the crocodile’s neck with her teeth, quickly went viral on social media.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>An Iconic Tigress’s Final Moments</strong></h2><p>Forest authorities further revealed that Arrowhead had been battling advanced bone cancer since a long time and was under observation in recent weeks. According to Rai, her condition had visibly deteriorated, as shown in the final footage where she struggled to stay on her feet before she eventually collapsed under a tree.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Arrowhead was believed to be filled with valour describing her courage Rai wrote, "I watched her confront new males like T120, and raise a fourth litter (she lost her third litter too) while fending off her now-dominant daughter. She lived a full and fiercely independent life—a true tigress in every sense."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her death has left a void in the Ranthambore landscape, the one not just of a dominant tigress, but of a symbolic presence rooted in decades of conservation history. For many, Arrowhead represented a direct link to a legacy that shaped how wild tigers are seen and protected in India.</p>

Just days before her death, she was captured on video ambushing a crocodile despite her deteriorating health. The footage, showing her gripping the crocodile’s neck with her teeth, quickly went viral on social media.

Arrowhead, the celebrated tigress, who once roamed the heartlands of Ranthambore National Park, has died at the age of 14. The forest officials confirmed her death earlier this week. She died just hours after her daughter was relocated to another tiger reserve. Officially known as T-84, Arrowhead was an iconic figure among wildlife photographers, researchers, and regular visitors to the park. Wildlife photographer Sachin Rai, who had tracked Arrowhead since she was a cub, captured what is now believed to be her final moments. In a video, he posted on his Instagram, Rai documented her slow, laboured walk near Padam Talab on the evening of June 17. In the caption he described it as, “Each movement was a visible effort. In that quiet moment, I knew in my heart that the end was near." Legacy and Lineage of Ranthambore’s Queen Born in 2014, Arrowhead was part of a legendary tiger lineage. She was the daughter of Krishna (T-19) and granddaughter of Machhli (T-16), who is one of India’s most famous tigresses. Over the years, Arrowhead established her own territory, much of which overlapped with areas once ruled by her mother and grandmother, earning her the title ‘Queen of Ranthambore’ among park regulars. Rai wrote, “On the evening of June 17th, I witnessed what would likely be the last walk of the legendary tigress Arrowhead. It was heartbreaking to see her struggle, attempting to rise and take a few feeble steps before collapsing again.”

<p>Just days before her death, she was captured on video ambushing a crocodile despite her deteriorating health. The footage, showing her gripping the crocodile’s neck with her teeth, quickly went viral on social media.</p>

The 'Queen of Ranthambore' is dead: Tigress Arrowhead’s last moments capture a life of strength

<p><i>Sri Lanka has welcomed the Indian announcement on evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from Iran as the West Asia crisis intensifies. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Arun Hemachandra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka said, that this "This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity&nbsp;and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades".&nbsp; This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals. The Sri Lankan Deputy Foreign minister hoped that the situation in west Asia will come to normal soon. Full Interview:</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Indian mission in Tehran has announced&nbsp;that they will help in evacuation&nbsp;of Sri Lankan nationals. If you can give your reaction to this?</strong></p><p><strong>Arun Hemachandra:</strong> Well, in light of the rapidly escalating situation in the region, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for their timely and generous assistance in facilitating the evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under Operation Sindhu, not only&nbsp; Indian citizens were brought to safety, but the Indian authorities also extended their helping hand to Sri Lankans and other South Asian nationals. This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Sir, perhaps if you can talk about the number of Sri Lankan nationals in Iran to give a broader view to us, and I believe that the Sri Lankan government also announced last week that you are moving your embassy to north of Iran?</strong></p><p><strong>Arun Hemachandra: </strong>Due to the tensions seen in the region, we took a decision to shift the embassy from Iran to the northern part of Iran. And overall, there are 30 plus Sri Lankans living in Iran, as per the statistics that we have, including the embassy staff. So we are grateful, once again, to India's External Affairs Ministry and Indian Embassy in Tehran for their proactive coordination and the care they extended.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What is the Sri Lankan stance of the West Asian crisis? If you can put in perspective.</strong><br><strong>Arun Hemachandra:</strong> The primary motive at the moment is the safety of Sri Lankan citizens, those who are in Israel as well as Iran. So we are looking forward to making sure that each and every Sri Lankan citizen is protected and safeguarded. And in terms of the bilateral relationship, we do have relationships with both nations. And so we are really watching this situation, and then we hope there will be normalcy very soon.</p>

Sri Lankan minister Hemachandra lauds Indian evacuation of Sri Lankans from Iran

Sri Lanka has welcomed the Indian announcement on evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from Iran as the West Asia crisis intensifies. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Arun Hemachandra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka said, that this "This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades". This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals. The Sri Lankan Deputy Foreign minister hoped that the situation in west Asia will come to normal soon. Full Interview: Indian mission in Tehran has announced that they will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals. If you can give your reaction to this? Arun Hemachandra: Well, in light of the rapidly escalating situation in the region, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for their timely and generous assistance in facilitating the evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under Operation Sindhu, not only Indian citizens were brought to safety, but the Indian authorities also extended their helping hand to Sri Lankans and other South Asian nationals. This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades. Sir, perhaps if you can talk about the number of Sri Lankan nationals in Iran to give a broader view to us, and I believe that the Sri Lankan government also announced last week that you are moving your embassy to north of Iran? Arun Hemachandra: Due to the tensions seen in the region, we took a decision to shift the embassy from Iran to the northern part of Iran. And overall, there are 30 plus Sri Lankans living in Iran, as per the statistics that we have, including the embassy staff. So we are grateful, once again, to India's External Affairs Ministry and Indian Embassy in Tehran for their proactive coordination and the care they extended. What is the Sri Lankan stance of the West Asian crisis? If you can put in perspective. Arun Hemachandra: The primary motive at the moment is the safety of Sri Lankan citizens, those who are in Israel as well as Iran. So we are looking forward to making sure that each and every Sri Lankan citizen is protected and safeguarded. And in terms of the bilateral relationship, we do have relationships with both nations. And so we are really watching this situation, and then we hope there will be normalcy very soon.

<p>This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis</p>

<p>In view of the Assembly elections in Bihar later this year, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced to increase the pension under the Social Security Pension Scheme from Rs 400 to Rs 1100. The beneficiaries will get the new pension amount from the month of July into their bank accounts on 10th of every month.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Making the announcement on X, Nitish Kumar wrote, “I am happy to inform you that under the Social Security Pension Scheme, widowed women, elderly and disabled people will now get a pension of Rs 1100 instead of Rs 400 every month."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"All the beneficiaries will get pension at the increased rate from the month of July. It will be ensured that this amount is sent to the account of all the beneficiaries on the 10th of the month. This will help 1 crore 9 lakh 69 thousand 255 beneficiaries a lot," the post further read.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-ordered-to-remove-three-senior-officials-for-serious-violations-of-aviation-safety-protocols-1750494802559">Air India ordered to remove three senior officials for 'serious violations' of aviation safety protocols</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said that the elderly are an integral part of the society and deserve a dignified life</p><p>"The elderly are a precious part of society and ensuring their dignified living is our top priority. The state government will continue to make efforts in this direction," he added.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">मुझे यह बताते हुए खुशी हो रही है कि सामाजिक सुरक्षा पेंशन योजना के तहत सभी वृद्धजनों, दिव्यांगजनों और विधवा महिलाओं को अब हर महीने 400 रु॰ की जगह 1100 रु॰ पेंशन मिलेगी। सभी लाभार्थियों को जुलाई महीने से पेंशन बढ़ी हुई दर पर मिलेगी। सभी लाभार्थियों के खाते में यह राशि महीने की 10…</p>&mdash; Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/NitishKumar/status/1936312721277890768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Bihar, which has 243 Assembly seats, is likely to go to the polls in October-November this year. A strong battle is expected between the JD(U)-BJP combine and the RJD of Lalu Prasad Yadav, who has been out of power for close to two decades.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, the Bihar government has also revised powers of the village heads or the mukhiyas under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). They will now be able to independently sanction schemes worth up to Rs 10 lakh as opposed to the Rs 5 lakh earlier.</p>

Notably, the Bihar government has also revised powers of the village heads or the mukhiyas under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 

In view of the Assembly elections in Bihar later this year, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced to increase the pension under the Social Security Pension Scheme from Rs 400 to Rs 1100. The beneficiaries will get the new pension amount from the month of July into their bank accounts on 10th of every month. Making the announcement on X, Nitish Kumar wrote, “I am happy to inform you that under the Social Security Pension Scheme, widowed women, elderly and disabled people will now get a pension of Rs 1100 instead of Rs 400 every month." "All the beneficiaries will get pension at the increased rate from the month of July. It will be ensured that this amount is sent to the account of all the beneficiaries on the 10th of the month. This will help 1 crore 9 lakh 69 thousand 255 beneficiaries a lot," the post further read. Also Read: Air India ordered to remove three senior officials for 'serious violations' of aviation safety protocols He said that the elderly are an integral part of the society and deserve a dignified life "The elderly are a precious part of society and ensuring their dignified living is our top priority. The state government will continue to make efforts in this direction," he added.

<p>Notably, the Bihar government has also revised powers of the village heads or the mukhiyas under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act&nbsp;</p>

Nitsh Kumar raises Social Security Pension to Rs 1100 ahead of Assembly elections

<p>The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced that all End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles, irrespective of the state, will not be allowed to refuel in Delhi from July 1. The vehicles will be identified through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at fuel stations in the national capital. An end-of-life (EoL) vehicle is considered to be any diesel vehicle that is older than 10 years and any petrol vehicle that is older than 15 years.</p><p>In Delhi, a total of 500 fuel stations have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, and the rest will be completed by June 30. All diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years will be detected by these cameras, and an alert will be sent to the command center and enforcement teams consisting of traffic and transport department officials, who will confiscate those vehicles, according to a report by news agency PTI.</p><p>"Our directions do not say that only EOL vehicles registered in Delhi will be detected and denied fuel. Vehicles registered outside Delhi-NCR also ply on Delhi roads and contribute to pollution. If (Delhi) people register their vehicles outside... that has to be deterred. We know that this is happening," Virinder Sharma, Member (Technical) of CAQM, said on Friday.</p><p>He stated that all the EOL buses registered in any state of India will be detected in the national capital through this mechanism. However, to curb their movement, separate directions will be issued. Sharma further noted that enforcement teams comprising officials with a total of 100 members from traffic and transport departments have been formulated. Additionally, stringent action will also be taken against fuel stations if found flouting.</p><h3>Which other districts cover this mechanism?</h3><p>This mechanism will be rolled out in five high-vehicle-density districts adjoining Delhi, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat, from November 1 this year, with the installation of ANPR cameras to be completed by October 31. The remaining NCR districts have been given time till March 31, 2026, to install the cameras, with fuel denial for EOL vehicles starting April 1, 2026.</p><p>As per the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Delhi alone has about 62 lakh EOL vehicles, including 41 lakh two-wheelers. Across the entire NCR, the number is around 44 lakh, with the bulk concentrated in the five key districts.</p><p>Sharma stated that the ANPR cameras, integrated with the VAHAN database, will detect vehicles that are outdated or lack valid pollution certificates. From the enforcement dates, fuel stations are required to deny fuel to these vehicles. Authorities are instructed to take swift legal steps, including impoundment and scrapping, in line with the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) Rules. Vehicle owners can, however, obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to shift overage vehicles outside Delhi for use elsewhere.</p><p>The development followed after limited progress in phasing out old, polluting vehicles from the NCR, despite previous orders from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-bans-vehicles-older-that-15-years-heres-all-you-need-to-know-8769357">Delhi government bans refueling of vehicles older than 15 years. Here's all you need to know</a><br>&nbsp;</p>

All diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years will be detected by installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and an alert will be sent to the command center and enforcement teams.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced that all End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles, irrespective of the state, will not be allowed to refuel in Delhi from July 1. The vehicles will be identified through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at fuel stations in the national capital. An end-of-life (EoL) vehicle is considered to be any diesel vehicle that is older than 10 years and any petrol vehicle that is older than 15 years. In Delhi, a total of 500 fuel stations have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, and the rest will be completed by June 30. All diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years will be detected by these cameras, and an alert will be sent to the command center and enforcement teams consisting of traffic and transport department officials, who will confiscate those vehicles, according to a report by news agency PTI. "Our directions do not say that only EOL vehicles registered in Delhi will be detected and denied fuel. Vehicles registered outside Delhi-NCR also ply on Delhi roads and contribute to pollution. If (Delhi) people register their vehicles outside... that has to be deterred. We know that this is happening," Virinder Sharma, Member (Technical) of CAQM, said on Friday. He stated that all the EOL buses registered in any state of India will be detected in the national capital through this mechanism. However, to curb their movement, separate directions will be issued. Sharma further noted that enforcement teams comprising officials with a total of 100 members from traffic and transport departments have been formulated. Additionally, stringent action will also be taken against fuel stations if found flouting. Which other districts cover this mechanism? This mechanism will be rolled out in five high-vehicle-density districts adjoining Delhi, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat, from November 1 this year, with the installation of ANPR cameras to be completed by October 31. The remaining NCR districts have been given time till March 31, 2026, to install the cameras, with fuel denial for EOL vehicles starting April 1, 2026. As per the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Delhi alone has about 62 lakh EOL vehicles, including 41 lakh two-wheelers. Across the entire NCR, the number is around 44 lakh, with the bulk concentrated in the five key districts. Sharma stated that the ANPR cameras, integrated with the VAHAN database, will detect vehicles that are outdated or lack valid pollution certificates. From the enforcement dates, fuel stations are required to deny fuel to these vehicles. Authorities are instructed to take swift legal steps, including impoundment and scrapping, in line with the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) Rules. Vehicle owners can, however, obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to shift overage vehicles outside Delhi for use elsewhere. The development followed after limited progress in phasing out old, polluting vehicles from the NCR, despite previous orders from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal. Also read: Delhi government bans refueling of vehicles older than 15 years. Here's all you need to know

<p>All diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years will be detected by installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and an alert will be sent to the command center and enforcement teams.</p>

No fuel for old vehicles in Delhi registered anywhere in India from July 1 - Check details here

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hours after the Indian government announced that it will evacuate Nepal nationals from Iran, the Nepal ambassador in Delhi Dr. Shankar P Sharma has thanked India for the measure that is being undertaken. &nbsp;Speaking to WION, he said, &nbsp;"India has always extended invaluable support during emergencies, whether it involves evacuating Nepali citizens from abroad in times of crisis or providing assistance during natural disasters such as earthquakes in Nepal".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the prospects of the West Asia situation remains grim, India has announced it will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan &amp; Nepali nationals from Iran as part of its ongoing operation Sindhu. The announcement was made by the Indian mission in Iran, and in a statement said, "On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian embassy in Tehran announced that citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka "may urgently reach out to the Embassy either on the Telegram channel or over the emergency contact numbers". Helpline numbers have also been issued: +989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109. India under operation Sindhu has been evacuating its nationals from Iran, both via land route from Armenia and special flights from Mashhad to Delhi. Flights have been regularly reaching the Indian national capital with the evacuated Indian nationals.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals of the countries from the region during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2023 Operation Ajay, involving evacuation from Israel, India evacuated Nepali nationals. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India has reached out to Nepal several times as part of its neighbourhood first policy. After 2015 massive quake, India launched operation Maitri to help the neighbouring country by deploying National disaster response Force teams. After the 2023 Jajarkot Earthquake, India had announced relief worth INR 10 cr. Later a $75 M financial package was announced for reconstruction efforts.</p>

As the prospects of the West Asia situation remains grim, India has announced it will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan & Nepali nationals from Iran.

Hours after the Indian government announced that it will evacuate Nepal nationals from Iran, the Nepal ambassador in Delhi Dr. Shankar P Sharma has thanked India for the measure that is being undertaken. Speaking to WION, he said, "India has always extended invaluable support during emergencies, whether it involves evacuating Nepali citizens from abroad in times of crisis or providing assistance during natural disasters such as earthquakes in Nepal". As the prospects of the West Asia situation remains grim, India has announced it will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan & Nepali nationals from Iran as part of its ongoing operation Sindhu. The announcement was made by the Indian mission in Iran, and in a statement said, "On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka". The Indian embassy in Tehran announced that citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka "may urgently reach out to the Embassy either on the Telegram channel or over the emergency contact numbers". Helpline numbers have also been issued: +989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109. India under operation Sindhu has been evacuating its nationals from Iran, both via land route from Armenia and special flights from Mashhad to Delhi. Flights have been regularly reaching the Indian national capital with the evacuated Indian nationals. This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals of the countries from the region during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2023 Operation Ajay, involving evacuation from Israel, India evacuated Nepali nationals. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals. India has reached out to Nepal several times as part of its neighbourhood first policy. After 2015 massive quake, India launched operation Maitri to help the neighbouring country by deploying National disaster response Force teams. After the 2023 Jajarkot Earthquake, India had announced relief worth INR 10 cr. Later a $75 M financial package was announced for reconstruction efforts.

<p>As the prospects of the West Asia situation remains grim, India has announced it will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan &amp; Nepali nationals from Iran.</p>

Operation Sindhu: Nepal thanks India for Iran evacuation

<p>Jordan has extended its support for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel as the west Asia crisis widens. Jordan Ambassador Yusuf Abdulghani, speaking to WION said that his country is helping India in evacuation from Israel. He said, "we are keen to have all Indian nationals to be brought back to India safely. 100 Indians have been evacuated through Royal Jordanian airlines".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Royal Jordanian airlines recently started 4 flights per week to Mumbai. The first batch of 50 Indians, who crossed over to Jordan, came from a direct Amman-Mumbai flight on Thursday. Earlier this week, the Indian govt had announced that it has decided to evacuate its nationals from Israel "who wish to leave" and this will be facilitated through land borders, that includes Jordan and Egypt border. &nbsp;Egypt has also extended support to the Indian evacuation. Ambassador Kamel Galal speaking to reporters in Delhi pointed that the Indian embassy in Cairo "must be in touch" with Egyptian Foreign ministry over any plans.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a number of advisories for its nationals in the country, asking them to register with the embassy. A 24/7 Control Room has been established at the Embassy of India, Tel Aviv. Helpline numbers have also been issued: +972 54-7520711; +972 54-3278392; email: cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in. Israel has around 25,000-28000 Indian nationals, including caregivers, construction workers. &nbsp;In response to WION, the Israel ambassador Reuven Azar said, "we are fully coordinated with MEA when it comes to requests to evacuate. Started to coordinate with our ministry of transport for evacuation..."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian embassies, both in Israel and Iran have urged Indian nationals to "remain vigilant and strictly follow the safety guidelines". Under Operation Sindhu, named after river Indus, India has been carrying out evacuation missions from both Iran and Israel since the outbreak of hostilities involving firing of missiles and rockets. From Iran, the initial evacuation took place from the land border with Armenia and then flights to Delhi from Yerevan. Currently evacuations are taking place from Mashhad to Delhi, involving 1000 Indian nationals as Iranian govt in a special gesture opened its airspace.</p>

The first batch of 50 Indians, who crossed over to Jordan, came from a direct Amman-Mumbai flight on Thursday.

Jordan has extended its support for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel as the west Asia crisis widens. Jordan Ambassador Yusuf Abdulghani, speaking to WION said that his country is helping India in evacuation from Israel. He said, "we are keen to have all Indian nationals to be brought back to India safely. 100 Indians have been evacuated through Royal Jordanian airlines". Royal Jordanian airlines recently started 4 flights per week to Mumbai. The first batch of 50 Indians, who crossed over to Jordan, came from a direct Amman-Mumbai flight on Thursday. Earlier this week, the Indian govt had announced that it has decided to evacuate its nationals from Israel "who wish to leave" and this will be facilitated through land borders, that includes Jordan and Egypt border. Egypt has also extended support to the Indian evacuation. Ambassador Kamel Galal speaking to reporters in Delhi pointed that the Indian embassy in Cairo "must be in touch" with Egyptian Foreign ministry over any plans. The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a number of advisories for its nationals in the country, asking them to register with the embassy. A 24/7 Control Room has been established at the Embassy of India, Tel Aviv. Helpline numbers have also been issued: +972 54-7520711; +972 54-3278392; email: cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in. Israel has around 25,000-28000 Indian nationals, including caregivers, construction workers. In response to WION, the Israel ambassador Reuven Azar said, "we are fully coordinated with MEA when it comes to requests to evacuate. Started to coordinate with our ministry of transport for evacuation..." The Indian embassies, both in Israel and Iran have urged Indian nationals to "remain vigilant and strictly follow the safety guidelines". Under Operation Sindhu, named after river Indus, India has been carrying out evacuation missions from both Iran and Israel since the outbreak of hostilities involving firing of missiles and rockets. From Iran, the initial evacuation took place from the land border with Armenia and then flights to Delhi from Yerevan. Currently evacuations are taking place from Mashhad to Delhi, involving 1000 Indian nationals as Iranian govt in a special gesture opened its airspace.

<p>The first batch of 50 Indians, who crossed over to Jordan, came from a direct Amman-Mumbai flight on Thursday.</p>

Jordan extends support to Indian evacuation from Israel

<p>Days after the Air India plane to Gatwick crashed in Gujarat's Ahmedabad with 241 people on board, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has ordered immediate action against three senior officials of Air India. The company has been asked to remove the officials on grounds of “serious and repeated violations” of aviation safety protocols.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The voluntary disclosures, while noted, point to systemic failures in crew scheduling, compliance monitoring, and internal accountability. Of particular concern is the absence of strict disciplinary measures against key officials directly responsible for these operational lapses,” the order dated June 20 states.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Choorah Singh, Divisional Vice President; Pinky Mittal, Chief Manager - DOPS, Crew Scheduling; and Payal Arora were directly held responsible for several lapses, including unauthorised and non-compliant crew pairings, violations of licensing and crew rest norms and systemic failures in oversight, according to the to the DGCA order.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Internal disciplinary proceedings must be initiated against these officials without delay, and the outcome of such proceedings shall be reported to this office within 10 days from the date of issue of this letter,” the order stated.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>These officials according to the order will be reassigned to non-operational roles and will not hold any position involving direct influence over flight safety and crew compliance.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"The aforementioned officials shall be reassigned to non-operational roles pending conclusion of corrective reforms in scheduling practices, and shall not hold any position involving direct influence over flight safety and crew compliance until further notice," it added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, London, crashed moments after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 people on board.</p>

The company has been asked to remove the officials on grounds of “serious and repeated violations” of aviation safety protocols.

Days after the Air India plane to Gatwick crashed in Gujarat's Ahmedabad with 241 people on board, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has ordered immediate action against three senior officials of Air India. The company has been asked to remove the officials on grounds of “serious and repeated violations” of aviation safety protocols. “The voluntary disclosures, while noted, point to systemic failures in crew scheduling, compliance monitoring, and internal accountability. Of particular concern is the absence of strict disciplinary measures against key officials directly responsible for these operational lapses,” the order dated June 20 states. Choorah Singh, Divisional Vice President; Pinky Mittal, Chief Manager - DOPS, Crew Scheduling; and Payal Arora were directly held responsible for several lapses, including unauthorised and non-compliant crew pairings, violations of licensing and crew rest norms and systemic failures in oversight, according to the to the DGCA order. “Internal disciplinary proceedings must be initiated against these officials without delay, and the outcome of such proceedings shall be reported to this office within 10 days from the date of issue of this letter,” the order stated. These officials according to the order will be reassigned to non-operational roles and will not hold any position involving direct influence over flight safety and crew compliance. "The aforementioned officials shall be reassigned to non-operational roles pending conclusion of corrective reforms in scheduling practices, and shall not hold any position involving direct influence over flight safety and crew compliance until further notice," it added. Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, London, crashed moments after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 people on board.

<p>The company has been asked to remove the officials on grounds of “serious and repeated violations” of aviation safety protocols.</p>

Air India ordered to remove three senior officials for 'serious violations' of aviation safety protocols

<p>Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war the Indian government has taken initiative to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. On Saturday, (Jun 21) a third special evacuation flight with 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. The total number of &nbsp;Indians that have returned home is 517, according to the external affairs ministry.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal took to X and wrote, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Evacuation to begin from Israel now</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian government will now extend the Operation Sindhu evacuation to Israel. &nbsp;Speaking to the media on Thursday, (June 19) the external affairs ministry said they have decided to evacuate those Indian nationals who wish to leave Israel. Their travel from Israel will be facilitated through the land borders and thereafter by air to India, the EAM further said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Requesting Indian nationals to register themselves with the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv, the government said, "In view of the above, the embassy of India in Tel Aviv would be making arrangements for the evacuation of Indians."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The evacuation of Indian nations from Israel is likely to begin from Sunday (June 22).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Nepal, Sri Lanka request help</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, India's neighbouring countries Nepal and Sri Lanka have requested help from Indian government to rescue their citizens stranded in Iran due to the conflict with Israel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India has agreed to the request of it neighbours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka," said the Indian embassy in Iran on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka may urgently reach out to the Embassy, either on the Telegram channel or over the emergency contact numbers 989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚠️<br>On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka. <a href="https://t.co/eHIOhmNN7M">https://t.co/eHIOhmNN7M</a></p>&mdash; India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) <a href="https://twitter.com/India_in_Iran/status/1936282218865082611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Indias neighbouring countries Nepal and Sri Lanka have requested help from Indian government to rescue their citizens stranded in Iran due to the conflict with Israel.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war the Indian government has taken initiative to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. On Saturday, (Jun 21) a third special evacuation flight with 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. The total number of Indians that have returned home is 517, according to the external affairs ministry. Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal took to X and wrote, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu". Evacuation to begin from Israel now The Indian government will now extend the Operation Sindhu evacuation to Israel. Speaking to the media on Thursday, (June 19) the external affairs ministry said they have decided to evacuate those Indian nationals who wish to leave Israel. Their travel from Israel will be facilitated through the land borders and thereafter by air to India, the EAM further said. Requesting Indian nationals to register themselves with the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv, the government said, "In view of the above, the embassy of India in Tel Aviv would be making arrangements for the evacuation of Indians." The evacuation of Indian nations from Israel is likely to begin from Sunday (June 22). Nepal, Sri Lanka request help Meanwhile, India's neighbouring countries Nepal and Sri Lanka have requested help from Indian government to rescue their citizens stranded in Iran due to the conflict with Israel. India has agreed to the request of it neighbours. "On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka," said the Indian embassy in Iran on X. The citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka may urgently reach out to the Embassy, either on the Telegram channel or over the emergency contact numbers 989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109.

<p>India's neighbouring countries Nepal and Sri Lanka have requested help from Indian government to rescue their citizens stranded in Iran due to the conflict with Israel.</p>

Operation Sindhu: Nepal, Sri Lanka seek help from India to evacuate its citizens from Iran amid war with Israel

Explore how India has transformed yoga into a powerful instrument of global diplomacy. From the UN to world capitals, this photo gallery captures how asanas are shaping alliances, healing divisions, and projecting India's cultural influence.

International Yoga Day: Bending the world with India's soft power

<p>For the first time ever, on the 11th International Yoga Day, celebrations were held at the historic Ghanta Ghar area of Lal Chowk Srinagar. Thousands of people today participated in the International Yoga Day celebrations across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Lal Chowk.</p><p>Despite being a Muslim majority area, Jammu and Kashmir is fast adopting yoga as a part of life. The number of people attending yoga celebrations has gone up massively in the last few years. In every district, celebrations were held, which were attended mostly by the student community. In Lal Chowk, not only the locals but also tourists participated in the Yoga Celebrations.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, who is on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir, also attended the International Yoga Day function in Udhampur district of Jammu division.</p><p>''The message is to spread the peace. The message is to make Kashmir a healthier place, a peaceful place. We are celebrating the 11th International Yoga Day under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. This place has a significance in Kashmir history; it has always been associated with turmoil and violence. Now the message is that Lal chowk would be known for peace, '' said Sheikh Salman, BJP District President.</p><p>The BJP, with a motive to promote tourism, organised the function at Srinagar's Lal Chowk area. They said it would send a message to the people across the country that Kashmir is peaceful and they can visit.</p><p>''The whole world is celebrating today and now people in the Kashmir Valley have adopted yoga as well. This is the historic Lal Chowk where we celebrated the International Yoga day with the message that Yoga is important for healthy life and if we are healthy the whole country would be fit. You also saw how tourists participated today in the celebration; we want to tell people that Kashmir is peaceful and the condition in the valley is fine now. And they should come back to Kashmir, '' said Altaf Thakur, BJP State Spokesperson.</p><p>A huge participation of the students was seen in every International Yoga Day celebration across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Students said that yoga is essential for a healthy lifestyle and a stress-free life.</p><p>''I really enjoyed it here today during the International Yoga Day Celebration. I feel very relaxed after the yoga session. I want everyone to do Yoga. It has a lot of benefits, and it also helps us to take away the stress from our lives, '' said Fatima, a student.</p><p>The popularity of yoga is increasing with every passing day, especially after the initiative taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 to celebrate International Yoga Day.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

In every J&K district, celebrations were held, which were attended mostly by the student community. In Lal Chowk, not only the locals but also tourists participated in the Yoga Celebrations.

For the first time ever, on the 11th International Yoga Day, celebrations were held at the historic Ghanta Ghar area of Lal Chowk Srinagar. Thousands of people today participated in the International Yoga Day celebrations across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Lal Chowk. Despite being a Muslim majority area, Jammu and Kashmir is fast adopting yoga as a part of life. The number of people attending yoga celebrations has gone up massively in the last few years. In every district, celebrations were held, which were attended mostly by the student community. In Lal Chowk, not only the locals but also tourists participated in the Yoga Celebrations. Meanwhile, the Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, who is on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir, also attended the International Yoga Day function in Udhampur district of Jammu division. ''The message is to spread the peace. The message is to make Kashmir a healthier place, a peaceful place. We are celebrating the 11th International Yoga Day under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. This place has a significance in Kashmir history; it has always been associated with turmoil and violence. Now the message is that Lal chowk would be known for peace, '' said Sheikh Salman, BJP District President. The BJP, with a motive to promote tourism, organised the function at Srinagar's Lal Chowk area. They said it would send a message to the people across the country that Kashmir is peaceful and they can visit. ''The whole world is celebrating today and now people in the Kashmir Valley have adopted yoga as well. This is the historic Lal Chowk where we celebrated the International Yoga day with the message that Yoga is important for healthy life and if we are healthy the whole country would be fit. You also saw how tourists participated today in the celebration; we want to tell people that Kashmir is peaceful and the condition in the valley is fine now. And they should come back to Kashmir, '' said Altaf Thakur, BJP State Spokesperson. A huge participation of the students was seen in every International Yoga Day celebration across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Students said that yoga is essential for a healthy lifestyle and a stress-free life. ''I really enjoyed it here today during the International Yoga Day Celebration. I feel very relaxed after the yoga session. I want everyone to do Yoga. It has a lot of benefits, and it also helps us to take away the stress from our lives, '' said Fatima, a student. The popularity of yoga is increasing with every passing day, especially after the initiative taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 to celebrate International Yoga Day.

<p>In every J&amp;K district, celebrations were held, which were attended mostly by the student community. In Lal Chowk, not only the locals but also tourists participated in the Yoga Celebrations.</p>

International Yoga Day celebrated at Srinagar’s historic Lal Chowk

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook yet another transcontinental official tour, which took him to three diverse countries – Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia – from 15 to 19 June. Visiting three nations in different time zones in five days involved a punishing schedule, but it was executed to secure clear-cut objectives of Indian diplomacy. The common thread was twofold: to represent India at the still-important summit of the Group of Seven in Canada’s western province of Alberta, and to push India’s strategic partnership with the EU, particularly by forging closer ties with the countries of eastern and central Europe. That this complex operation was planned and executed at extremely short notice was a tribute to the protocol, security, and diplomatic officials, confirming how sophisticated and competent the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has become in such matters.</p><p>A wisecrack compared the three-nation trip to a three-course meal, which began with an appetiser in Cyprus, featured varied dishes in the main course at the Kananaskis Summit in Alberta, and ended with a collection of desserts in the Croatian capital, Zagreb. It was a project designed to engage a multiplicity of stakeholders who contributed to advancing India’s partnership with key nations, as well as its growing global profile.</p><h2><strong>Cyprus</strong></h2><p>A member of the European Union (EU) since 2004, Cyprus is set to take over the presidency of the European Council in the first half of 2026. It is a small state with a population of less than one million, yet it boasts a high per capita income, and this is evident in its signs of prosperity. Since 1974, it has been a divided island country, with almost one-third of the territory under the control of Turkish Cyprus, recognised by only one country – Türkiye. Ankara’s highly partisan attitude, favouring Pakistan, especially on the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the 'Operation Sindoor,' made Cyprus a natural choice as a destination for PM Modi. What helped the mission was that a close friendship and mutual empathy between the two nations had begun much earlier, during the time of Archbishop Makarios III and Jawaharlal Nehru in the 1960s. Then, the bonds of the Commonwealth and the Non-Aligned Movement made India and Cyprus natural partners. Representing India in Cyprus in the late 1970s, this author experienced the magic of this special friendship and the warmth of Cypriot hospitality every time he visited the country from his diplomatic base in Beirut.</p><p>On 15 June, Prime Minister Modi was received in a special gesture by President Nikos Christodoulides at Larnaca Airport. This was the first visit by an Indian PM in two decades. Detailed discussions followed. The leaders focused on ways to strengthen the India-EU strategic partnership, including ongoing discussions on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). India conveyed its support to Cyprus on the Cyprus question. The host government expressed full support for India’s stand on combating cross-border terrorism. Efforts to deepen economic cooperation were given a fillip with Cyprus emerging as one of the top ten sources of FDI for India. “Our partnership is becoming increasingly multifaceted,” said a senior official. Defence industrial collaboration and establishing connectivity through shipping and logistics were promoted, with specific steps that became more relevant in the context of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). By bestowing its highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, on Prime Minister Modi, the Cyprus government demonstrated its goodwill towards India. The joint declaration expressed the two governments’ “determination to advance this partnership across sectors further.”</p><p>Canada</p><p>The ostensible purpose of visiting Canada was all too obvious: to participate in the outreach session of the G7 summit. PM Modi did so, presenting India’s perspective on energy security and several other topics, including terrorism, technology, and Artificial Intelligence. On the sidelines, he held discussions with several European and other leaders, especially the President of Mexico, Brazil, and South Africa.</p><p>It was the Canadian dimension of the stay at Kananaskis that emerged as a welcome development in terms of India-Canada relations. In the background of preparatory work by senior officials, the two prime ministers reached an agreement on a significant reset of the bilateral relationship, which had been severely strained by certain actions of the previous Canadian government since October 2023. The basic agreement centred around the two sides taking “calibrated and constructive steps” to restore stability to the relationship. It was also decided to restart senior ministerial-level and working-level arrangements across various domains “to rebuild, trust and bring momentum to the relationship.”</p><p>Croatia</p><p>Even those who are well-informed about foreign affairs face difficulty in answering the question as to what followed the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s. What is easy to recall is that as a result, Croatia emerged as one of the independent states. Marshal Josip Broz Tito, the president of Yugoslavia and a great friend of India during the Cold War period, was a Croat. Choosing Croatia for the first-ever visit by an Indian PM was indeed historic. With a population of 3.8 million and an area of over 56,000 km², Croatia, a member of the European Union, enjoys a strategically important location on the Adriatic Sea. It is rich in tourism, trade, and investment potential.</p><p>The reception of Prime Minister Modi by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković at the airport, along with elaborate bilateral discussions and the signing of four agreements relating to cooperation in agriculture, science and technology, cultural exchange, and the establishment of a Hindi chair at the University of Zagreb, were among the highlights of this visit. It was agreed that a stronger India-EU relationship would be mutually beneficial. The host nation’s interest in IMEC was also noted. The two sides expressed interest in concluding a mobility partnership agreement. PM Modi’s visit came six years after India’s President Ram Nath Kovind visited Croatia. MEA expressed the hope that the latest visit would be “a catalyst to the expansion of India-Croatia partnership and (would) further strengthen India-EU strategic partnership.”</p><p>A post on X by the Croatian PM drew attention to the intellectual and cultural dimensions of this relationship, He presented to his Indian counterpart a reprint of Filip Vezdin’s Sanskrit Grammar written in 1790, based on the knowledge he gained while living in India from Kerala Brahmins and local manuscripts, Prime Minister Plenković hailed it as a “symbol of early cultural ties between Croatia and India.”</p><p>With this diplomatic odyssey, the tapestry of India’s foreign policy became richer. India renewed old friendships and gained new friends. The multi-country visit demonstrated our nation’s expertise in nurturing ties with great powers, middle powers, and small states. This is the hallmark of an accomplished player performing on the global stage.<br>&nbsp;</p>

A wisecrack compared the three-nation trip to a three-course meal, which began with an appetiser in Cyprus, featured varied dishes in the main course at the Kananaskis Summit in Alberta, and ended with a collection of desserts in the Croatian capital, Zagreb.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook yet another transcontinental official tour, which took him to three diverse countries – Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia – from 15 to 19 June. Visiting three nations in different time zones in five days involved a punishing schedule, but it was executed to secure clear-cut objectives of Indian diplomacy. The common thread was twofold: to represent India at the still-important summit of the Group of Seven in Canada’s western province of Alberta, and to push India’s strategic partnership with the EU, particularly by forging closer ties with the countries of eastern and central Europe. That this complex operation was planned and executed at extremely short notice was a tribute to the protocol, security, and diplomatic officials, confirming how sophisticated and competent the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has become in such matters. A wisecrack compared the three-nation trip to a three-course meal, which began with an appetiser in Cyprus, featured varied dishes in the main course at the Kananaskis Summit in Alberta, and ended with a collection of desserts in the Croatian capital, Zagreb. It was a project designed to engage a multiplicity of stakeholders who contributed to advancing India’s partnership with key nations, as well as its growing global profile. Cyprus A member of the European Union (EU) since 2004, Cyprus is set to take over the presidency of the European Council in the first half of 2026. It is a small state with a population of less than one million, yet it boasts a high per capita income, and this is evident in its signs of prosperity. Since 1974, it has been a divided island country, with almost one-third of the territory under the control of Turkish Cyprus, recognised by only one country – Türkiye. Ankara’s highly partisan attitude, favouring Pakistan, especially on the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the 'Operation Sindoor,' made Cyprus a natural choice as a destination for PM Modi. What helped the mission was that a close friendship and mutual empathy between the two nations had begun much earlier, during the time of Archbishop Makarios III and Jawaharlal Nehru in the 1960s. Then, the bonds of the Commonwealth and the Non-Aligned Movement made India and Cyprus natural partners. Representing India in Cyprus in the late 1970s, this author experienced the magic of this special friendship and the warmth of Cypriot hospitality every time he visited the country from his diplomatic base in Beirut. On 15 June, Prime Minister Modi was received in a special gesture by President Nikos Christodoulides at Larnaca Airport. This was the first visit by an Indian PM in two decades. Detailed discussions followed. The leaders focused on ways to strengthen the India-EU strategic partnership, including ongoing discussions on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). India conveyed its support to Cyprus on the Cyprus question. The host government expressed full support for India’s stand on combating cross-border terrorism. Efforts to deepen economic cooperation were given a fillip with Cyprus emerging as one of the top ten sources of FDI for India. “Our partnership is becoming increasingly multifaceted,” said a senior official. Defence industrial collaboration and establishing connectivity through shipping and logistics were promoted, with specific steps that became more relevant in the context of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). By bestowing its highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, on Prime Minister Modi, the Cyprus government demonstrated its goodwill towards India. The joint declaration expressed the two governments’ “determination to advance this partnership across sectors further.” Canada The ostensible purpose of visiting Canada was all too obvious: to participate in the outreach session of the G7 summit. PM Modi did so, presenting India’s perspective on energy security and several other topics, including terrorism, technology, and Artificial Intelligence. On the sidelines, he held discussions with several European and other leaders, especially the President of Mexico, Brazil, and South Africa. It was the Canadian dimension of the stay at Kananaskis that emerged as a welcome development in terms of India-Canada relations. In the background of preparatory work by senior officials, the two prime ministers reached an agreement on a significant reset of the bilateral relationship, which had been severely strained by certain actions of the previous Canadian government since October 2023. The basic agreement centred around the two sides taking “calibrated and constructive steps” to restore stability to the relationship. It was also decided to restart senior ministerial-level and working-level arrangements across various domains “to rebuild, trust and bring momentum to the relationship.” Croatia Even those who are well-informed about foreign affairs face difficulty in answering the question as to what followed the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s. What is easy to recall is that as a result, Croatia emerged as one of the independent states. Marshal Josip Broz Tito, the president of Yugoslavia and a great friend of India during the Cold War period, was a Croat. Choosing Croatia for the first-ever visit by an Indian PM was indeed historic. With a population of 3.8 million and an area of over 56,000 km², Croatia, a member of the European Union, enjoys a strategically important location on the Adriatic Sea. It is rich in tourism, trade, and investment potential. The reception of Prime Minister Modi by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković at the airport, along with elaborate bilateral discussions and the signing of four agreements relating to cooperation in agriculture, science and technology, cultural exchange, and the establishment of a Hindi chair at the University of Zagreb, were among the highlights of this visit. It was agreed that a stronger India-EU relationship would be mutually beneficial. The host nation’s interest in IMEC was also noted. The two sides expressed interest in concluding a mobility partnership agreement. PM Modi’s visit came six years after India’s President Ram Nath Kovind visited Croatia. MEA expressed the hope that the latest visit would be “a catalyst to the expansion of India-Croatia partnership and (would) further strengthen India-EU strategic partnership.” A post on X by the Croatian PM drew attention to the intellectual and cultural dimensions of this relationship, He presented to his Indian counterpart a reprint of Filip Vezdin’s Sanskrit Grammar written in 1790, based on the knowledge he gained while living in India from Kerala Brahmins and local manuscripts, Prime Minister Plenković hailed it as a “symbol of early cultural ties between Croatia and India.” With this diplomatic odyssey, the tapestry of India’s foreign policy became richer. India renewed old friendships and gained new friends. The multi-country visit demonstrated our nation’s expertise in nurturing ties with great powers, middle powers, and small states. This is the hallmark of an accomplished player performing on the global stage.

<p>A wisecrack compared the three-nation trip to a three-course meal, which began with an appetiser in Cyprus, featured varied dishes in the main course at the Kananaskis Summit in Alberta, and ended with a collection of desserts in the Croatian capital, Zagreb.</p>

A tale of PM Modi’s three visits

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Jun 21) led the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Hailing yoga as a universal gift that was "beyond age," he said it transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony." In the coastal city of Vishakhapatnam, over three lakh people joined PM Modi at the mass yoga session, which was set against a scenic maritime backdrop with Indian Navy ships stationed offshore. “Yoga is for everyone beyond boundaries, beyond backgrounds, beyond age or physical ability,” noted the Indian prime minister.</p><h2><strong>Yoga ‘a universal gift’</strong></h2><p>Addressing the crowd of over three lakh people, Modi hailed yoga as a “universal gift". "It is a universal gift that unites humanity in health, harmony, and consciousness," he said, adding, “Friends, I am truly delighted that we are gathered here in Visakhapatnam, a city that beautifully blends nature with progress.”</p><p>He also praised Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan for hosting the event, calling their leadership "inspiring."</p><p>"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chandrababu Naidu Garu and Pawan Kalyan for hosting such a wonderful event under your inspiring leadership. It is commendable that the state of Andhra Pradesh has taken this meaningful initiative to promote yoga".</p><h2><strong>11th International Yoga Day</strong></h2><p>This year's message for Yoga Day is that 'yoga belongs to everyone' and brings the world together.</p><p>At the Visakhapatnam event, Modi recalled how India's 2014 proposal at the UN to designate June 21 as International Yoga Day received record global support from 175 nations.</p><p>"Such unity and overwhelming global support was truly extraordinary. This was not just about agreeing to a proposal, it was a collective step taken for the betterment of humanity. It reflected a shared vision for a healthier, more conscious world. Today, in 2025, we can proudly see that yoga has become an integral part of many people's lives across the globe," the Prime Minister said.</p><p>Noting that Yoga was everywhere, he said, "Be it the steps of the Sydney Opera House, the peaks of Everest, or the expanse of the ocean. The message everywhere is the same - Yoga belongs to all and is for all".</p><p>Similar events were held across the country, with BJP chief JP Nadda and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan taking part in different events in New Delhi</p>

Hailing yoga as a universal gift that was "beyond age," he said it transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Jun 21) led the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Hailing yoga as a universal gift that was "beyond age," he said it transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony." In the coastal city of Vishakhapatnam, over three lakh people joined PM Modi at the mass yoga session, which was set against a scenic maritime backdrop with Indian Navy ships stationed offshore. “Yoga is for everyone beyond boundaries, beyond backgrounds, beyond age or physical ability,” noted the Indian prime minister. Yoga ‘a universal gift’ Addressing the crowd of over three lakh people, Modi hailed yoga as a “universal gift". "It is a universal gift that unites humanity in health, harmony, and consciousness," he said, adding, “Friends, I am truly delighted that we are gathered here in Visakhapatnam, a city that beautifully blends nature with progress.” He also praised Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan for hosting the event, calling their leadership "inspiring." "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chandrababu Naidu Garu and Pawan Kalyan for hosting such a wonderful event under your inspiring leadership. It is commendable that the state of Andhra Pradesh has taken this meaningful initiative to promote yoga". 11th International Yoga Day This year's message for Yoga Day is that 'yoga belongs to everyone' and brings the world together. At the Visakhapatnam event, Modi recalled how India's 2014 proposal at the UN to designate June 21 as International Yoga Day received record global support from 175 nations. "Such unity and overwhelming global support was truly extraordinary. This was not just about agreeing to a proposal, it was a collective step taken for the betterment of humanity. It reflected a shared vision for a healthier, more conscious world. Today, in 2025, we can proudly see that yoga has become an integral part of many people's lives across the globe," the Prime Minister said. Noting that Yoga was everywhere, he said, "Be it the steps of the Sydney Opera House, the peaks of Everest, or the expanse of the ocean. The message everywhere is the same - Yoga belongs to all and is for all". Similar events were held across the country, with BJP chief JP Nadda and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan taking part in different events in New Delhi

<p>Hailing yoga as a universal gift that was "beyond age," he said it transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony."</p>

'Yoga is for all': PM Modi leads 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Visakhapatnam

<p>India on Saturday (Jun 21) rescued 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, as the third special evacuation flight landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu". Just hours earlier, late on Friday (Jun 20), another flight, this one from Mashhad, Iran, brought home 290 Indian students. The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran because of the worsening situation amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindhu</a> continues.<br><br>A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home. <br><br>With this, so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu. <a href="https://t.co/xYfpoxwJtw">pic.twitter.com/xYfpoxwJtw</a></p>— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1936223348297810279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Rescued students thank GOI</strong></h2><p>In a post on X, the Jammu and Kashmir student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for evacuating the students.</p><p>The association wrote, “Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir, has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks, PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support.”</p><p>MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “Operation Sindhu flight brings citizens home. India evacuated 290 Indian nationals from Iran, including students and religious pilgrims by a charter flight. The flight arrived in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 20 June and was received by Secretary (CPV&amp; OIA) Arun Chatterjee.”</p><p>“Government of India is grateful to the Government of Iran for the facilitation of the evacuation process.”</p><p>Earlier, Iran said it had opened its airspace for evacuation flights to India in a special gesture. The first flight carrying 110 students from Iran landed at Delhi International Airport early Thursday (Jun 19) under ‘Operation Sindhu’. The first batch of students, all from Urmia Medical University, were brought from Iran to Armenia by road and brought to Delhi via flight. The flight was delayed by three hours, NDTV reported.</p><p>According to reports, there are over 13,000 Indian students in Iran. Most of them are pursuing medical degrees. To evacuate Indian nationals from Iran amid its conflict with Israel, the Ministry of External Affairs announced ‘Operation Sindhu’.</p>

Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home."

India on Saturday (Jun 21) rescued 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, as the third special evacuation flight landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu". Just hours earlier, late on Friday (Jun 20), another flight, this one from Mashhad, Iran, brought home 290 Indian students. The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran because of the worsening situation amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

<p>Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home."</p>

Operation Sindhu: India evacuates 517 nationals from Iran as war rages in the Middle East

<p><strong>International Yoga Day 2025:</strong> This day honours the ancient practice of yoga, which originated in India centuries ago. It will be marked across the world with people participating in yoga sessions to celebrate its numerous benefits. Yoga is considered one of the best forms of exercise for physical and mental health, offering countless benefits. Ahead of this year's International Yoga Day, let’s look at its history, significance, and more.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>How did International Yoga Day start?</strong><br>&nbsp;</h2><p>In September 2014, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, proposed the idea to celebrate June 21st as the day dedicated to Yoga across the world.</p><p><br>On December 11 2014, 193 members of the UNGA and 173 co-sponsor countries unanimously approved the resolution of the United Nations in which the establishment of June 21st as the International Day of Yoga was passed.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2>Significance of June 21<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>The day is observed to raise awareness and the benefits that yoga offers to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. June 21 was chosen because it marks the summer solstice- the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. &nbsp;The day that holds profound cultural and practical importance.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What began on ancient soil is now a global movement.🧘‍♂️<br><br>Yoga—India’s timeless gift, is bringing the world together in breath and balance. On 21st June, millions across continents will pause, stretch, and reconnect.<br><br>Be part of this shared moment of peace.… <a href="https://t.co/FaVKpQxbH2">pic.twitter.com/FaVKpQxbH2</a></p>&mdash; MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mygovindia/status/1935728906767659245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is the theme of International Yoga Day?<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>The theme for IDY2025 IS 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health', announced PM Narendra Modi in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on March 30, 2025.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Talking about Yoga Day, which has now become a grand event, PM Modi said earlier this year, "Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generations."</p><p><br>"It is a matter of pride for all of us that, today, the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising all over the world. A large number of youngsters are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as excellent mediums for wellness," the prime minister said.</p><h2><br>When was the first Yoga Day celebrated?</h2><p><br>On June 21, 2015, The first International day was celebrated with a huge event organized in New Delhi, India. The event made two Guinness World Records: one for the largest yoga session and another for the most nationalities in one session.</p><p>In 2023, another Guinness World Record was created at PM Modi's Yoga event in the US for the most nationalities.</p>

Did you know why June 21st was chosen as Yoga Day? Theme significance and more

International Yoga Day 2025: This day honours the ancient practice of yoga, which originated in India centuries ago. It will be marked across the world with people participating in yoga sessions to celebrate its numerous benefits. Yoga is considered one of the best forms of exercise for physical and mental health, offering countless benefits. Ahead of this year's International Yoga Day, let’s look at its history, significance, and more. How did International Yoga Day start? In September 2014, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, proposed the idea to celebrate June 21st as the day dedicated to Yoga across the world. On December 11 2014, 193 members of the UNGA and 173 co-sponsor countries unanimously approved the resolution of the United Nations in which the establishment of June 21st as the International Day of Yoga was passed. Significance of June 21 The day is observed to raise awareness and the benefits that yoga offers to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. June 21 was chosen because it marks the summer solstice- the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The day that holds profound cultural and practical importance.

<p>In September 2014, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, proposed the idea to celebrate June 21st as the day dedicated to Yoga across the world.</p>

<p>A flight carrying 290 Indian students, who were evacuated from Iran, landed in New Delhi on late Friday (Jun 20), the J&amp;K Students Association said. This flight marks the second one that reached India as part of the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals and students from Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. In a post on X, the student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for timely evacuating the students.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The association wrote, “Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support. <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/smitaprakash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@smitaprakash</a> <a href="https://t.co/QNpd1glJ8G">pic.twitter.com/QNpd1glJ8G</a></p>&mdash; J&amp;K Students Association (@JKSTUDENTSASSO) <a href="https://twitter.com/JKSTUDENTSASSO/status/1936129067054776589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “Operation Sindhu flight brings citizens home. India evacuated 290 Indian nationals from Iran, including students and religious pilgrims by a charter flight. The flight arrived in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 20 June and was received by Secretary (CPV&amp; OIA) Arun Chatterjee.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Government of India is grateful to the Government of Iran for the facilitation of the evacuation process.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindhu</a> flight brings citizens home.<br><br>🇮🇳 evacuated 290 Indian nationals from Iran, including students and religious pilgrims by a charter flight. The flight arrived in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 20 June and was received by Secretary (CPV&amp; OIA) Arun Chatterjee.<br><br>Government… <a href="https://t.co/ZORq0aeza5">pic.twitter.com/ZORq0aeza5</a></p>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1936139503044796473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier, Iran said it had opened its airspace for evacuation flights to India, in a special gesture. Iran's Deputy Chief of Mission to India Mohammad Javad Hosseini told WION that Indian nationals were moved from Tehran to Mashhad via Qom. in the first phase of evacuation efforts. Arrangements were made for 1,000 Indians with the Indian Embassy in Iran, and they were allocated Mahaan Airlines.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The first flight carrying 110 students from Iran landed at Delhi International Airport on early Thursday (Jun 19) under ‘Operation Sindhu’. The first batch of students, all from Urmia Medical University, were brought from Iran to Armenia by road and brought to Delhi via flight. The flight was delayed by three hours, NDTV reported.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to reports, there are over 13,000 Indian students in Iran. Most of them are pursuing medical degrees. To evacuate Indian nationals from Iran amid its conflict with Israel, the Ministry of External Affairs announced ‘Operation Sindhu’.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Operation Sindhu begins,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. “India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of her nationals abroad,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

This flight marks the second one that reached India as part of the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals and students from Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

A flight carrying 290 Indian students, who were evacuated from Iran, landed in New Delhi on late Friday (Jun 20), the J&K Students Association said. This flight marks the second one that reached India as part of the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals and students from Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. In a post on X, the student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for timely evacuating the students. The association wrote, “Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support.”

<p>This flight marks the second one that reached India as part of the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals and students from Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.</p>

Second flight carrying 290 Indian students evacuated from Iran lands in Delhi | WATCH

<p>The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) by India following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 people lost their lives, has begun to show sharp consequences in Pakistan, particularly as the country struggles to sow its critical Kharif (monsoonal) crops. Water flows from the Indus River System into Pakistan have dropped drastically across key regions including Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to daily reports by Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority (IRSA).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per the IRSA report dated June 16, the flow of water to Sindh dropped to 1.33 lakh cusecs compared to 1.6 lakh cusecs on the same day last year—marking a fall of nearly 17 per cent. Similarly, the Punjab region received 1.26 lakh cusecs, down slightly from 1.29 lakh in 2023. By June 20, however, the already serious crisis had deepened, with overall water flows into Pakistan down nearly 20 per cent year-on-year, reported CNN-News18.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Crisis in the Fields</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The timing of this decline is critical. Kharif crops, which depend heavily on early monsoon irrigation, are already showing a decline of over 20 per cent in sowing due to insufficient water. In Punjab, the water flow on June 20 stood at 1,10,500 cusecs, compared to 1,30,800 cusecs the previous year. In Sindh, the drop was even sharper, from 1,70,000 to 1,33,000 cusecs. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded a minor fall, from 2,900 to 2,600 cusecs, according to News18.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With the monsoon still about two weeks away and reservoirs reportedly reaching dead levels, farmers face a looming crisis. Pakistan had earlier warned of a 21 per cent shortage in the Kharif season following the treaty’s suspension, and current figures suggest the deficit is dangerously close.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Strategic Shift and Communication Breakdown</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s move to suspend the IWT marks a significant policy shift, albeit not without reason. The treaty, signed in 1960 with World Bank mediation, gave Islamabad rights to the western rivers, Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, while India retained control over the eastern ones: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Approximately 70 per cent of the Indus system’s water was allocated to Pakistan.</p><p>In addition to curtailing water flow, and following heightened India-Pakistan tensions after India’s retaliatory ‘Operation Sindoor’ post the Pahalgam attack, the situation has become increasingly grim for Pakistan. India has ceased sharing river data, raising fears in Pakistan about flood preparedness. Islamabad has sent at least four formal communications urging India to reconsider the suspension, but New Delhi has maintained its position, stating that “blood and water cannot flow together." India’s long-term plan, which was recently made public, to divert water from the Indus and Chenab to its heartland via a 160-km tunnel only adds to Pakistan’s mounting concerns.</p>

Water flows from the Indus River System into Pakistan have dropped drastically across key regions including Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to daily reports by Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority (IRSA).

The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) by India following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 people lost their lives, has begun to show sharp consequences in Pakistan, particularly as the country struggles to sow its critical Kharif (monsoonal) crops. Water flows from the Indus River System into Pakistan have dropped drastically across key regions including Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to daily reports by Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority (IRSA). As per the IRSA report dated June 16, the flow of water to Sindh dropped to 1.33 lakh cusecs compared to 1.6 lakh cusecs on the same day last year—marking a fall of nearly 17 per cent. Similarly, the Punjab region received 1.26 lakh cusecs, down slightly from 1.29 lakh in 2023. By June 20, however, the already serious crisis had deepened, with overall water flows into Pakistan down nearly 20 per cent year-on-year, reported CNN-News18. Crisis in the Fields The timing of this decline is critical. Kharif crops, which depend heavily on early monsoon irrigation, are already showing a decline of over 20 per cent in sowing due to insufficient water. In Punjab, the water flow on June 20 stood at 1,10,500 cusecs, compared to 1,30,800 cusecs the previous year. In Sindh, the drop was even sharper, from 1,70,000 to 1,33,000 cusecs. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded a minor fall, from 2,900 to 2,600 cusecs, according to News18. With the monsoon still about two weeks away and reservoirs reportedly reaching dead levels, farmers face a looming crisis. Pakistan had earlier warned of a 21 per cent shortage in the Kharif season following the treaty’s suspension, and current figures suggest the deficit is dangerously close. Strategic Shift and Communication Breakdown India’s move to suspend the IWT marks a significant policy shift, albeit not without reason. The treaty, signed in 1960 with World Bank mediation, gave Islamabad rights to the western rivers, Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, while India retained control over the eastern ones: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. Approximately 70 per cent of the Indus system’s water was allocated to Pakistan. In addition to curtailing water flow, and following heightened India-Pakistan tensions after India’s retaliatory ‘Operation Sindoor’ post the Pahalgam attack, the situation has become increasingly grim for Pakistan. India has ceased sharing river data, raising fears in Pakistan about flood preparedness. Islamabad has sent at least four formal communications urging India to reconsider the suspension, but New Delhi has maintained its position, stating that “blood and water cannot flow together." India’s long-term plan, which was recently made public, to divert water from the Indus and Chenab to its heartland via a 160-km tunnel only adds to Pakistan’s mounting concerns.

<p>Water flows from the Indus River System into Pakistan have dropped drastically across key regions including Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to daily reports by Pakistan’s Indus River System Authority (IRSA).</p>

Dry river, fields go thirsty: Pakistan faces agricultural crisis after Indus Waters Treaty suspension

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed on Friday (June 20) that he had turned down an invitation from the US President Donald Trump for a dinner meeting in Washington, choosing instead to travel to Odisha.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking at a public event in Bhubaneswar, PM Narendra Modi said, “Just two days ago, I was in Canada for the G7 Summit. While I was there, US President Trump called me and said ‘since you are in Canada, come via Washington. Let’s have dinner and talk.’ He extended the invitation with great insistence.”</p><p><br>The Prime Minister said that he had to politely turn down the offer. “I told the US President, ‘Thank you for the invitation. But it is very important for me to visit the land of Mahaprabhu — Odisha',” he said, referring to the Jagannath Temple in Puri.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Your love and devotion to Mahaprabhu brought me to this land,” the Prime Minister added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Wednesday (June 18), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. They were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of G7, as Trump returned to US early, the leaders resorted to a phone call that lasted for approximately 35 minutes.</p><p><br>This call also took place after Trump called PM Modi to express his condolences after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, he had also assured support against terrorism in the wake of the dastardly attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people in Kashmir.</p><p><br>In his statement, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, PM Modi clearly told President Trump that throughout this entire sequence of events, at no point were topics such as the India-US trade deal or US mediation between India and Pakistan discussed. The discussions regarding pausing military actions took place directly between India and Pakistan through existing military channels, on Pakistan’s request.</p><p><br>PM Modi emphasised on the fact that India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it now, and will never accept it. And on this matter, there is complete political consensus in the country.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Trump heard through and understood the details provided by PM Modi and expressed support for India’s fight against terrorism. The prime minister was also clear that India no longer views terrorism as a proxy war but as an act of war, and Operation Sindoor is still ongoing.</p>

Thank you for the invitation PM Modi on why he politely declined Donald Trumps dinner offer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed on Friday (June 20) that he had turned down an invitation from the US President Donald Trump for a dinner meeting in Washington, choosing instead to travel to Odisha. Speaking at a public event in Bhubaneswar, PM Narendra Modi said, “Just two days ago, I was in Canada for the G7 Summit. While I was there, US President Trump called me and said ‘since you are in Canada, come via Washington. Let’s have dinner and talk.’ He extended the invitation with great insistence.” The Prime Minister said that he had to politely turn down the offer. “I told the US President, ‘Thank you for the invitation. But it is very important for me to visit the land of Mahaprabhu — Odisha',” he said, referring to the Jagannath Temple in Puri. “Your love and devotion to Mahaprabhu brought me to this land,” the Prime Minister added. On Wednesday (June 18), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. They were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of G7, as Trump returned to US early, the leaders resorted to a phone call that lasted for approximately 35 minutes. This call also took place after Trump called PM Modi to express his condolences after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, he had also assured support against terrorism in the wake of the dastardly attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people in Kashmir. In his statement, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, PM Modi clearly told President Trump that throughout this entire sequence of events, at no point were topics such as the India-US trade deal or US mediation between India and Pakistan discussed. The discussions regarding pausing military actions took place directly between India and Pakistan through existing military channels, on Pakistan’s request. PM Modi emphasised on the fact that India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it now, and will never accept it. And on this matter, there is complete political consensus in the country. President Trump heard through and understood the details provided by PM Modi and expressed support for India’s fight against terrorism. The prime minister was also clear that India no longer views terrorism as a proxy war but as an act of war, and Operation Sindoor is still ongoing.

<p>PM Modi said he turned down an invitation from US President Donald Trump for a dinner meeting, prioritising his visit to Odisha</p>

'Thank you for the invitation': PM Modi on why he ‘politely declined’ Donald Trump’s dinner offer

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (June 20) hit out at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress party while addressing a rally in Bihar's Siwan, where he dedicated development projects worth Rs 10,000 crore. He spoke about the 'jungle raj' during the RJD regime in the state and urged people to vote the party out in the Bihar assembly elections &nbsp;to be held later this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Those who brought ‘jungle raj’ to Bihar are looking for an opportunity to repeat their old deeds somehow. People who are ready to put the brake on the journey towards a prosperous Bihar have to be kept at bay,” PM Modi said at the rally.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also spoke about how businesses suffered in Bihar and infrastructure was in a poor state during the Congress-RJD coalition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Calling both the parties anti-Bihar and anti-investment, he said, “RJD and Congress actions are anti-Bihar and anti-investment. Whenever they talk about development, people see locks hanging on shops, businesses, industries and trades… These people have been the nurturers of poor infrastructure, mafia raj, gunda raj, and corruption.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Bihar became a symbol of poverty under the rule of ‘Panja’ (Congress) and ‘Laltern’ (RJD)… They looted so much that poverty became Bihar’s misfortune,' he further said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The PM also highlighted how the poor condition of Dalit and backwards communities during their regime.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Congress’s ‘License Raj’ kept Bihar poor for a long time… the Dalit and backwards communities were the biggest victims of this. Some families became millionaires and billionaires by showing these people false dreams of being free from poverty," PM Modi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is PM Modi's fifth visit to Bihar in the past five months as the JD(U)-BJP coalition looks to regain power again.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

He also spoke about how businesses suffered in Bihar and infrastructure was in a poor state during the Congress-RJD coalition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (June 20) hit out at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress party while addressing a rally in Bihar's Siwan, where he dedicated development projects worth Rs 10,000 crore. He spoke about the 'jungle raj' during the RJD regime in the state and urged people to vote the party out in the Bihar assembly elections to be held later this year. "Those who brought ‘jungle raj’ to Bihar are looking for an opportunity to repeat their old deeds somehow. People who are ready to put the brake on the journey towards a prosperous Bihar have to be kept at bay,” PM Modi said at the rally. He also spoke about how businesses suffered in Bihar and infrastructure was in a poor state during the Congress-RJD coalition. Calling both the parties anti-Bihar and anti-investment, he said, “RJD and Congress actions are anti-Bihar and anti-investment. Whenever they talk about development, people see locks hanging on shops, businesses, industries and trades… These people have been the nurturers of poor infrastructure, mafia raj, gunda raj, and corruption.” "Bihar became a symbol of poverty under the rule of ‘Panja’ (Congress) and ‘Laltern’ (RJD)… They looted so much that poverty became Bihar’s misfortune,' he further said. The PM also highlighted how the poor condition of Dalit and backwards communities during their regime. "Congress’s ‘License Raj’ kept Bihar poor for a long time… the Dalit and backwards communities were the biggest victims of this. Some families became millionaires and billionaires by showing these people false dreams of being free from poverty," PM Modi said. This is PM Modi's fifth visit to Bihar in the past five months as the JD(U)-BJP coalition looks to regain power again.

<p>He also spoke about how businesses suffered in Bihar and infrastructure was in a poor state during the Congress-RJD coalition.</p>

PM Modi hits out at RJD, Congress with 'jungle raj' dig at rally in Siwan, calls them anti-Bihar

<p>The Indian Government aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) will soon be completely building, marketing, and launching the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle(SSLV rocket) developed by the Indian Government Space Agency ISRO. Indian Government officials said, this would mean that the SSLV rocket is going to be HAL's property, they can launch it to ferry customers' satellites and demand a price for providing the launch services.</p><p>Typically, all Indian spacefaring rockets are developed by and belong to the Indian Space Research Organization. ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors, assembles the rocket and launches it. Henceforth, HAL will follow the same process for the SSLV.</p><p>HAL was finally selected from a list of nine bidders, considering that theirs was the highest techno-commercial bid to secure the Technology Transfer of the SSLV rocket. HAL is also the firm that builds the Indian homegrown fighter jet Tejas, and various other fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft of its own and under licensed production.</p><p>The SSLV is the Indian Government's latest and smallest spacefaring rocket. ISRO says, the SSLV can carry satellites weighing up to 500kg to orbits 500 km above the earth's surface.<br>SSLV made its debut launch in August 2022, which was a failure. Thereafter, it did two flights - in February 2023 and August 2024, both successes. All three flights so far have been developmental flights. Developmental flights are more like flight tests of the rocket, its crucial components and sub-systems. Once they demonstrate their reliability in developmental flights, the rocket is flown on more routine/operational missions.</p><p>The agreement for the technology transfer of SSLV is to be signed between HAL, ISRO's commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO, and the Government's Space promotion agency IN-SPACE. According to the Government, the agreement encompasses extensive training and handholding of HAL personnel by ISRO teams, both at ISRO and HAL facilities, for the building and launching of two SSLVs in the next two years. Officials said HAL's bid was for Rs.511cr (approx $59mn), and this sum would be paid in a phased manner.</p><p>Radhakrishnan Durairaj, CMD, NSIL, said, "We are pleased to be part of this SSLV technology transfer process that would enable HAL to develop this launch vehicle that would cater to launch on-demand needs of global small satellite customer needs. This collaboration marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s commercial satellite launch capabilities and more specifically in enabling Indian industry in realising this SSLV.”</p><p>Queried about the long delays in rolling out India's Tejas fighter jets and whether HAL's ability to deliver in the rocketry domain, top officials from HAL's Aerospace division outlined that the capability for space manufacturing is different from that of fighter planes. They added that a different manufacturing capacity exists for the space programme and for the fighter jet programme.</p><p>Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACE, said, after the first to HAL-made SSLV launches supported by ISRO, HAL is free to change the design of the rocket, source its components from vendors of its choice, market it and launch it. He added that the SSLV technology transfer marks a pivotal moment in India’s space sector, as this is one of the first instances of a space agency transferring entire rocket technology to a company.</p><p>Asked about who/which entity will absorb the liability in case of a rocket catastrophe, Goenka mentioned that the launching nation bears the responsibility, affirming that it rests with the Government of India. He added that the Government of India would decide how much liability would be borne by itself, and how much would be borne by the owner of the rocket. Referring to the instance of a private firm Skyroot launching a small rocket, Goenka said that the launching firm was asked to take a launch liability insurance.</p><p>Indian firms L&amp;T and HAL have also undertaken a contract to build and launch 5 PSLV rockets, that originally belong to ISRO. According to officials, the first such industry-built PSLV rocket, designated at "PSLV N1" is to be launched towards the end of 2025.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors assembles the rocket and launches it. Henceforth, HAL will follow the same process for the SSLV.

The Indian Government aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) will soon be completely building, marketing, and launching the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle(SSLV rocket) developed by the Indian Government Space Agency ISRO. Indian Government officials said, this would mean that the SSLV rocket is going to be HAL's property, they can launch it to ferry customers' satellites and demand a price for providing the launch services. Typically, all Indian spacefaring rockets are developed by and belong to the Indian Space Research Organization. ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors, assembles the rocket and launches it. Henceforth, HAL will follow the same process for the SSLV. HAL was finally selected from a list of nine bidders, considering that theirs was the highest techno-commercial bid to secure the Technology Transfer of the SSLV rocket. HAL is also the firm that builds the Indian homegrown fighter jet Tejas, and various other fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft of its own and under licensed production. The SSLV is the Indian Government's latest and smallest spacefaring rocket. ISRO says, the SSLV can carry satellites weighing up to 500kg to orbits 500 km above the earth's surface. SSLV made its debut launch in August 2022, which was a failure. Thereafter, it did two flights - in February 2023 and August 2024, both successes. All three flights so far have been developmental flights. Developmental flights are more like flight tests of the rocket, its crucial components and sub-systems. Once they demonstrate their reliability in developmental flights, the rocket is flown on more routine/operational missions. The agreement for the technology transfer of SSLV is to be signed between HAL, ISRO's commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO, and the Government's Space promotion agency IN-SPACE. According to the Government, the agreement encompasses extensive training and handholding of HAL personnel by ISRO teams, both at ISRO and HAL facilities, for the building and launching of two SSLVs in the next two years. Officials said HAL's bid was for Rs.511cr (approx $59mn), and this sum would be paid in a phased manner. Radhakrishnan Durairaj, CMD, NSIL, said, "We are pleased to be part of this SSLV technology transfer process that would enable HAL to develop this launch vehicle that would cater to launch on-demand needs of global small satellite customer needs. This collaboration marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s commercial satellite launch capabilities and more specifically in enabling Indian industry in realising this SSLV.” Queried about the long delays in rolling out India's Tejas fighter jets and whether HAL's ability to deliver in the rocketry domain, top officials from HAL's Aerospace division outlined that the capability for space manufacturing is different from that of fighter planes. They added that a different manufacturing capacity exists for the space programme and for the fighter jet programme. Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACE, said, after the first to HAL-made SSLV launches supported by ISRO, HAL is free to change the design of the rocket, source its components from vendors of its choice, market it and launch it. He added that the SSLV technology transfer marks a pivotal moment in India’s space sector, as this is one of the first instances of a space agency transferring entire rocket technology to a company. Asked about who/which entity will absorb the liability in case of a rocket catastrophe, Goenka mentioned that the launching nation bears the responsibility, affirming that it rests with the Government of India. He added that the Government of India would decide how much liability would be borne by itself, and how much would be borne by the owner of the rocket. Referring to the instance of a private firm Skyroot launching a small rocket, Goenka said that the launching firm was asked to take a launch liability insurance. Indian firms L&T and HAL have also undertaken a contract to build and launch 5 PSLV rockets, that originally belong to ISRO. According to officials, the first such industry-built PSLV rocket, designated at "PSLV N1" is to be launched towards the end of 2025.

<p>ISRO sources rocket components from Indian and foreign vendors, assembles the rocket and launches it. Henceforth, HAL will follow the same process for the SSLV.</p>

Indian government firm HAL to own, build and launch ISRO's SSLV rocket

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Indian government firm HAL to own, build and launch ISRO's SSLV rocket