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Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as she arrive in India for the first time. Among other things, the two leaders are expected to discuss advancing cooperation on clean hydrogen and green ammonia, a key pillar of the India-Japan strategic partnership aimed at strengthening energy security, accelerating industrial decarbonisation, and building resilient clean energy supply chains. But why is India and Japan betting on clean hydrogen and ammonia:&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bullet-train-to-moon-mission-what-are-the-key-india-japan-projects-shaping-strategic-ties-1782884414340">From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects</a>&nbsp;India's abundant solar energy and vast land availability make it one of the world's cheapest producers of green hydrogen and ammonia. India aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes (MMTPA) of green hydrogen annually by 2030 and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. This positions India as a global hub for green hydrogen and ammonia exports. Additionally, industrial decarbonisation supports cleaner production in sectors such as fertilisers, heavy industry and power generation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-ties-to-go-beyond-the-handshake-1782882666775">India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake</a>&nbsp;Japan lacks sufficient land for large-scale solar and wind projects but like India, it also wants to reduce dependency on imported energy specially after the West Asia war. It seeks alternatives to imported coal and natural gas. Clean ammonia can be used as a chemical feedstock, semiconductor cleaning agent and as fuel for co-firing in thermal power plants. Japan has created opportunity with its Hydrogen Society Promotion Act as it offers long-term Contracts for Difference (CfD) subsidies. Japanese companies like IHI are partnering with India's ACME Group on a $3 billion green ammonia project in Odisha.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-pm-takaichi-to-land-in-india-eyes-stronger-indo-pacific-partnership-1782908851808/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-pm-takaichi-to-land-in-india-eyes-stronger-indo-pacific-partnership-1782908851808/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In this regard, both Japan and India are mutually beneficial to each other. Japan provides the necessary investment for hydrogen and ammonia production while India has immense resource. Japan is also providing advanced technology, while India offers manufacturing potential. The partnership supports both countries' long-term decarbonisation and energy security objectives. India and Japan are developing a dedicated clean energy trade route. Both countries are aligning certification norms, lifecycle analysis and trade rules. The Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) enables India to generate carbon credits that Japan can use to meet its climate goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

As Japan PM Sanae Takaichi visits India, New Delhi and Tokyo are set to deepen cooperation on clean hydrogen and green ammonia. Here's why both countries see the partnership as key to energy security, decarbonisation, and building a future clean energy trade corridor.

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as she arrive in India for the first time. Among other things, the two leaders are expected to discuss advancing cooperation on clean hydrogen and green ammonia, a key pillar of the India-Japan strategic partnership aimed at strengthening energy security, accelerating industrial decarbonisation, and building resilient clean energy supply chains. But why is India and Japan betting on clean hydrogen and ammonia: Also Read: From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects India's abundant solar energy and vast land availability make it one of the world's cheapest producers of green hydrogen and ammonia. India aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes (MMTPA) of green hydrogen annually by 2030 and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. This positions India as a global hub for green hydrogen and ammonia exports. Additionally, industrial decarbonisation supports cleaner production in sectors such as fertilisers, heavy industry and power generation. Also Read: India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake Japan lacks sufficient land for large-scale solar and wind projects but like India, it also wants to reduce dependency on imported energy specially after the West Asia war. It seeks alternatives to imported coal and natural gas. Clean ammonia can be used as a chemical feedstock, semiconductor cleaning agent and as fuel for co-firing in thermal power plants. Japan has created opportunity with its Hydrogen Society Promotion Act as it offers long-term Contracts for Difference (CfD) subsidies. Japanese companies like IHI are partnering with India's ACME Group on a $3 billion green ammonia project in Odisha. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-pm-takaichi-to-land-in-india-eyes-stronger-indo-pacific-partnership-1782908851808/embed In this regard, both Japan and India are mutually beneficial to each other. Japan provides the necessary investment for hydrogen and ammonia production while India has immense resource. Japan is also providing advanced technology, while India offers manufacturing potential. The partnership supports both countries' long-term decarbonisation and energy security objectives. India and Japan are developing a dedicated clean energy trade route. Both countries are aligning certification norms, lifecycle analysis and trade rules. The Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) enables India to generate carbon credits that Japan can use to meet its climate goals.

As Japan PM Sanae Takaichi visits India, New Delhi and Tokyo are set to deepen cooperation on clean hydrogen and green ammonia. Here's why both countries see the partnership as key to energy security, decarbonisation, and building a future clean energy trade corridor.

Why India and Japan are betting big on clean hydrogen and green ammonia | WION Decodes

In a disturbing turn, a 33-year-old Indian seafarer who died in Venezuela was found to have missing internal organs after the second post-mortem conducted in India. The family of the deceased, identified as Rakesh Chauhan, a resident of Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district, has demanded a thorough investigation into the incidents surrounding his death. In response to the post-mortem results, the Federation of Seafarers’ Unions of India (FSUI) has demanded accountability from Venezuelan officials and intervention by the Indian Embassy. Chauhan, employed on a merchant navy vessel, reportedly died from a cardiac arrest in Venezuela in May. However, his family stated that when his remains were repatriated to India, they were not provided with an autopsy report or official details explaining the circumstances of his death In a post on X, the FSUI said the family sought a second post-mortem examination after the body arrived in Deoria. The organisation claimed that the examination conducted in India found that all internal organs had been removed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚠️ SHOCKING CASE — Indian Seafarer <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RakeshChauhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RakeshChauhan</a> reported dead in <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Venezuela?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezuela</a>. Mortal remains sent back to his hometown in Uttar Pradesh without any autopsy report or details from Venezuelan authorities. Family demanded re-autopsy. The official Post-Mortem Report conducted in… <a href="https://t.co/4dGSZtPEfp">pic.twitter.com/4dGSZtPEfp</a>&mdash; FSUI (@FSUIINDIA) <a href="https://x.com/FSUIINDIA/status/2071893044794687954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bullet-train-to-moon-mission-what-are-the-key-india-japan-projects-shaping-strategic-ties-1782884414340">From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects shaping strategic ties?</a><h3>Several organs missing</h3>According to the FSUI, the missing organs included the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, stomach, intestines, thyroid, hyoid bone, larynx and trachea. The body allegedly bore extensive surgical stitching, with a 22-stitch incision running from the neck to the pubic region and another 21 stitches stretching from one ear to the other. The organisation further stated that the body had remained in deep freeze for nearly a month. It said no signs of ante-mortem injuries were detected and that the exact cause of death could not be established because the internal organs were absent. The FSUI argued that the condition of the body has raised concerns about transparency, the handling of Indian workers abroad and the accountability of the foreign authorities involved.

A second post-mortem allegedly found that the body was missing major organs, including the brain, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. The body also reportedly had extensive surgical stitching, with long incisions running from the neck to the lower abdomen and across the head.

In a disturbing turn, a 33-year-old Indian seafarer who died in Venezuela was found to have missing internal organs after the second post-mortem conducted in India. The family of the deceased, identified as Rakesh Chauhan, a resident of Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district, has demanded a thorough investigation into the incidents surrounding his death. In response to the post-mortem results, the Federation of Seafarers’ Unions of India (FSUI) has demanded accountability from Venezuelan officials and intervention by the Indian Embassy. Chauhan, employed on a merchant navy vessel, reportedly died from a cardiac arrest in Venezuela in May. However, his family stated that when his remains were repatriated to India, they were not provided with an autopsy report or official details explaining the circumstances of his death In a post on X, the FSUI said the family sought a second post-mortem examination after the body arrived in Deoria. The organisation claimed that the examination conducted in India found that all internal organs had been removed.

A second post-mortem allegedly found that the body was missing major organs, including the brain, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. The body also reportedly had extensive surgical stitching, with long incisions running from the neck to the lower abdomen and across the head.

'No brain, heart, lungs...': Mystery deepens over Indian sailor's death in Venezuela as family alleges missing organs

US President Big Beautiful Bill is bringing sweeping changes to student debt, starting to take effect from July 1. The major overhaul of the system is part of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, passed last year, targeting the US Department of Education. According to the Federal Student Aid office, nearly 43 million student borrowers have approximately $1.7 trillion in loans as of March 2026. This will fundamentally change how Americans borrow for and repay higher education loans.&nbsp;<h2>End of Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE)</h2>The July 1, 2025, order passed by the Trump administration will ultimately end the SAVE plan of the Biden administration and force 7 million borrowers to change to a new plan within 90 days, which could potentially spike their monthly repayments. The Education Department has initiated a repayment calculator on its website, where students can calculate their monthly bill and repayment options.<h2>Two repayment plans</h2>There will be two repayment plans: the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) or the Tiered Standard repayment plan. The RAP will calculate the monthly bill based on the borrower's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). The government will give a flat $50 discount per dependent instead of the government protecting a major chunk of the discretionary income. Every borrower will have to pay 1 per cent to 10 per cent of their income, at least $10 a month. Under the Tiered Standard repayment plan, a fixed repayment system depending on the borrower which will be applied to the borrower, regardless of the Adjusted Gross Income.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-oman-strait-of-hormuz-fee-us-opposition-1782899404506">Iran, Oman push for Strait of Hormuz fee despite US opposition</a><h2>Borrowing Limits</h2>As of July 1, graduate students will be able to take out federal loans up to $20,500 per year or $100,000. For professional students, those who are pursuing a law or medical degree will be able to take $50,000 per year to $200,000. The prior limit was the “cost of attendance”, which was mostly $60,000 per year for medical students. The popular Parent PLUS loan for undergraduate students will be limited to $20,000 annually and $65,000 over the total course of a student's studies. The new limit will apply to students enrolling after July 1. Further, the Department of Education has said that certain healthcare studies, such as nursing, physician assistants and physical therapy, will not come under professional courses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump's Big Beautiful Bill ends the SAVE plan, introduces new student loan repayment options, and changes federal borrowing limits from July 1.

US President Big Beautiful Bill is bringing sweeping changes to student debt, starting to take effect from July 1. The major overhaul of the system is part of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, passed last year, targeting the US Department of Education. According to the Federal Student Aid office, nearly 43 million student borrowers have approximately $1.7 trillion in loans as of March 2026. This will fundamentally change how Americans borrow for and repay higher education loans. End of Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) The July 1, 2025, order passed by the Trump administration will ultimately end the SAVE plan of the Biden administration and force 7 million borrowers to change to a new plan within 90 days, which could potentially spike their monthly repayments. The Education Department has initiated a repayment calculator on its website, where students can calculate their monthly bill and repayment options. Two repayment plans There will be two repayment plans: the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) or the Tiered Standard repayment plan. The RAP will calculate the monthly bill based on the borrower's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). The government will give a flat $50 discount per dependent instead of the government protecting a major chunk of the discretionary income. Every borrower will have to pay 1 per cent to 10 per cent of their income, at least $10 a month. Under the Tiered Standard repayment plan, a fixed repayment system depending on the borrower which will be applied to the borrower, regardless of the Adjusted Gross Income. Also Read: Iran, Oman push for Strait of Hormuz fee despite US opposition Borrowing Limits As of July 1, graduate students will be able to take out federal loans up to $20,500 per year or $100,000. For professional students, those who are pursuing a law or medical degree will be able to take $50,000 per year to $200,000. The prior limit was the “cost of attendance”, which was mostly $60,000 per year for medical students. The popular Parent PLUS loan for undergraduate students will be limited to $20,000 annually and $65,000 over the total course of a student's studies. The new limit will apply to students enrolling after July 1. Further, the Department of Education has said that certain healthcare studies, such as nursing, physician assistants and physical therapy, will not come under professional courses.

Trump's Big Beautiful Bill ends the SAVE plan, introduces new student loan repayment options, and changes federal borrowing limits from July 1.

Trump's Big Beautiful Bill brings sweeping changes to US student loans from July 1

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council on Wednesday (July 1) said that it is yet to avenge the killing of its leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel airstrike. Taking to X the council wrote, "The file on #avenging the blood of Martyr Ayatollah Khamenei and Iran’s martyrs remains open.""The commanders and perpetrators of these crimes will face #justice in due time, which will not be long, at the hands of righteous elements," it further added.<h2>Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral</h2>&nbsp;After Iran's supreme leader late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a combined attack by the US and Israeli forces on February 28, his funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4 and conclude with ​his burial in the ​northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-oman-strait-of-hormuz-fee-us-opposition-1782899404506">Iran, Oman push for Strait of Hormuz fee despite US opposition</a>&nbsp;He will be laid to rest near the shrine of Imam Reza, fulfilling his wish of being buried next to one of Shia Islam's most revered figures.&nbsp;Khamenei's burial in his hometown, the northeastern holy city of Mashhad was initially scheduled for March but got postponed due to the war.&nbsp;The three-day funeral ceremony will begin in capital Tehran on July 4 and another in the holy city of Qom on July 7 with the burial happening in the ​northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9, according to the state media.<h2>Who are the attendees?</h2>&nbsp;The funeral is expected to be attended by few international leaders, including Indian politicians.A formal invitation to attend the multi-day state funeral has been sent by Tehran to senior figures of both India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party.The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita.&nbsp;

After Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a combined attack by the US and Israeli forces on February 28, his funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council on Wednesday (July 1) said that it is yet to avenge the killing of its leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel airstrike. Taking to X the council wrote, "The file on #avenging the blood of Martyr Ayatollah Khamenei and Iran’s martyrs remains open." "The commanders and perpetrators of these crimes will face #justice in due time, which will not be long, at the hands of righteous elements," it further added. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral After Iran's supreme leader late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a combined attack by the US and Israeli forces on February 28, his funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4 and conclude with his burial in the northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9. ALSO READ: Iran, Oman push for Strait of Hormuz fee despite US opposition He will be laid to rest near the shrine of Imam Reza, fulfilling his wish of being buried next to one of Shia Islam's most revered figures. Khamenei's burial in his hometown, the northeastern holy city of Mashhad was initially scheduled for March but got postponed due to the war. The three-day funeral ceremony will begin in capital Tehran on July 4 and another in the holy city of Qom on July 7 with the burial happening in the northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9, according to the state media. Who are the attendees? The funeral is expected to be attended by few international leaders, including Indian politicians. A formal invitation to attend the multi-day state funeral has been sent by Tehran to senior figures of both India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party. The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita.

After Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a combined attack by the US and Israeli forces on February 28, his funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4.&nbsp;

'File on avenging blood of Khamenei remains open', warns Iran's top security body ahead of funeral

New Delhi: Iran has extended formal invitations to senior figures from both India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party to attend the multi-day state funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes in February. Invitations have been sent to BJP National President Nitin Nabin, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress foreign affairs chair Salman Khurshid.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/decoding-japan-s-soft-power-and-cultural-influence-india-others-tend-to-overlook-1782901121503">Decoding Japan’s soft power and cultural influence India, others tend to overlook</a>&nbsp;Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri signed the condolence book at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi shortly after Khamenei’s death. The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. The funeral ceremonies, one of the largest in Iran’s history, are scheduled from 4-9 July across Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad, with processions also planned in Iraq.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-biz-honchos-accompanying-japan-s-pm-to-delhi-eager-to-ride-on-india-s-growth-story-1782768835501">50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story</a>&nbsp;Authorities expect millions of mourners amid heightened security following the regional conflict. The invitations show the civilisational ties between New Delhi and Tehran, even as both nations navigate a volatile West Asian landscape.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-announces-extra-15bn-for-defence-says-road-and-energy-projects-to-be-scrapped-for-funds-1782827331880">Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds</a>&nbsp;Since the February conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained communication with President Masoud Pezeshkian. In multiple phone calls, the leaders discussed de-escalation, the safety of Indian nationals, secure shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz vital for India’s oil imports, and the need for dialogue over confrontation. India has consistently advocated for peace, condemning attacks on civilian infrastructure while emphasising diplomacy.&nbsp;Iran has also invited PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and Shia members of Indian Parliament, Ruhullah Mehdi, Haji Haneefa, Imran Masood and Afzal Ansari.

The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. The funeral ceremonies, one of the largest in Iran’s history, are scheduled from 4-9 July.

New Delhi: Iran has extended formal invitations to senior figures from both India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party to attend the multi-day state funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes in February. Invitations have been sent to BJP National President Nitin Nabin, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress foreign affairs chair Salman Khurshid. Also Read: Decoding Japan’s soft power and cultural influence India, others tend to overlook Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri signed the condolence book at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi shortly after Khamenei’s death. The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. The funeral ceremonies, one of the largest in Iran’s history, are scheduled from 4-9 July across Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad, with processions also planned in Iraq. Also Read: 50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story Authorities expect millions of mourners amid heightened security following the regional conflict. The invitations show the civilisational ties between New Delhi and Tehran, even as both nations navigate a volatile West Asian landscape. Also Read: Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds Since the February conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained communication with President Masoud Pezeshkian. In multiple phone calls, the leaders discussed de-escalation, the safety of Indian nationals, secure shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz vital for India’s oil imports, and the need for dialogue over confrontation. India has consistently advocated for peace, condemning attacks on civilian infrastructure while emphasising diplomacy. Iran has also invited PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and Shia members of Indian Parliament, Ruhullah Mehdi, Haji Haneefa, Imran Masood and Afzal Ansari.

The Indian government will be represented by a special delegation led by Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. The funeral ceremonies, one of the largest in Iran’s history, are scheduled from 4-9 July.

Iran invites India’s ruling BJP and opposition Congress to Khamenei state funeral

In recent months, Japan has become a hot destination for vacations among Indian tourists. While Tokyo’s neon corridors and Kyoto’s iconic shrines draw millions, the global traveller surge has made these hotspots increasingly crowded.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Indian travellers seeking authentic, peaceful, and picturesque locations, the regional route through the Chubu region—specifically Kanazawa and Takayama—offers a pristine window into Japan’s heritage, complete with rich vegetarian alternatives, historical architecture, and stunning alpine nature without the massive tourist buses.&nbsp;On the sidelines of the India-Japan summit, here are some offbeat places in Japan that should be on your bucket list when you are planning your next vacation.&nbsp;<h2>Beyond the Golden Route</h2>Most Indian travellers planning their first trip to Japan automatically book the "Golden Route" connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. While these cities are magnificent, they can feel overwhelming and crowded. True discovery lies just a bullet train ride away in the Chubu region, where ancient traditions are lived, not just staged, and life moves at a delightfully slower pace.<h2>Kanazawa</h2>Often referred to as "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa escaped the heavy bombings of World War II, leaving its historical layout intact.&nbsp; Walking through the Higashi Chaya district feels like stepping straight into a historic painting, complete with preserved wooden geisha tea houses and quiet stone streets. A short walk away lies Kenrokuen Garden, widely celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unlike the packed bamboo groves of Arashiyama, morning strolls past Kenrokuen's tranquil ponds and perfectly sculpted pine trees offer genuine peace and meditative calm.&nbsp; For food, head to Omicho Market.&nbsp;&nbsp;While famous for its fresh Sea of Japan seafood, vegetarians can easily find incredible local root vegetables, exquisite matcha sweets, and fresh fruits.<h2>Takayama</h2>From Kanazawa, a scenic train ride brings you deep into the rugged Japanese Alps to Takayama, a beautifully preserved merchant town in Gifu Prefecture. The heart of the town, Sanmachi Suji, consists of three narrow streets lined with dark-wood Edo-period buildings, many of which still function as local craft shops and generations-old sake breweries. Takayama is incredibly friendly for Indian palates; because of the area's historical Zen Buddhist roots, local restaurants excel at Sansai Ryori (mountain vegetable cuisine) and specialised local miso preparations served on a magnolia leaf (Hoba Miso), providing a rich, savoury dining experience without relying on meat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Takayama

&nbsp;To make the most of this itinerary, secure a regional JR Hokuriku Arch Pass. It seamlessly connects Tokyo to Kanazawa, saving you money while keeping your travel incredibly flexible.

On the sidelines of the India-Japan summit, travellers seeking an authentic, peaceful, and picturesque escape are encouraged to look beyond the traditional ‘Golden Route’ and explore the underrated Chubu region.

In recent months, Japan has become a hot destination for vacations among Indian tourists. While Tokyo’s neon corridors and Kyoto’s iconic shrines draw millions, the global traveller surge has made these hotspots increasingly crowded. For Indian travellers seeking authentic, peaceful, and picturesque locations, the regional route through the Chubu region—specifically Kanazawa and Takayama—offers a pristine window into Japan’s heritage, complete with rich vegetarian alternatives, historical architecture, and stunning alpine nature without the massive tourist buses. On the sidelines of the India-Japan summit, here are some offbeat places in Japan that should be on your bucket list when you are planning your next vacation. Beyond the Golden Route Most Indian travellers planning their first trip to Japan automatically book the "Golden Route" connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. While these cities are magnificent, they can feel overwhelming and crowded. True discovery lies just a bullet train ride away in the Chubu region, where ancient traditions are lived, not just staged, and life moves at a delightfully slower pace. Kanazawa Often referred to as "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa escaped the heavy bombings of World War II, leaving its historical layout intact. Walking through the Higashi Chaya district feels like stepping straight into a historic painting, complete with preserved wooden geisha tea houses and quiet stone streets. A short walk away lies Kenrokuen Garden, widely celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens. Unlike the packed bamboo groves of Arashiyama, morning strolls past Kenrokuen's tranquil ponds and perfectly sculpted pine trees offer genuine peace and meditative calm. For food, head to Omicho Market. While famous for its fresh Sea of Japan seafood, vegetarians can easily find incredible local root vegetables, exquisite matcha sweets, and fresh fruits. Takayama From Kanazawa, a scenic train ride brings you deep into the rugged Japanese Alps to Takayama, a beautifully preserved merchant town in Gifu Prefecture. The heart of the town, Sanmachi Suji, consists of three narrow streets lined with dark-wood Edo-period buildings, many of which still function as local craft shops and generations-old sake breweries. Takayama is incredibly friendly for Indian palates; because of the area's historical Zen Buddhist roots, local restaurants excel at Sansai Ryori (mountain vegetable cuisine) and specialised local miso preparations served on a magnolia leaf (Hoba Miso), providing a rich, savoury dining experience without relying on meat.

On the sidelines of the India-Japan summit, travellers seeking an authentic, peaceful, and picturesque escape are encouraged to look beyond the traditional ‘Golden Route’ and explore the underrated Chubu region.

Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto: The ultimate underrated itinerary for Indian travellers

The European heatwave caused more than 1,000 deaths in Spain, officials stated on Wednesday (July 1). This coincides with the country recording its hottest first six months ever. According to the Carlos III Health Institute, heat-related issues during this period resulted in at least 1,028 fatalities. This toll is more than double the 407 heat-attributed deaths recorded in June 2025, which the national weather agency, AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología), noted was previously Spain's hottest June on record.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-heatwave-paris-mortuaries-overwhelmed-after-record-heatwave-1782808031234/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-heatwave-paris-mortuaries-overwhelmed-after-record-heatwave-1782808031234/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;AEMET reported on X on Wednesday (July 1) that the first six months of 2026 were Spain's warmest first half of a year since records began, with average temperatures reaching 1.6°C above normal levels. The agency highlighted that the seven hottest first semesters have all occurred within the past decade. Furthermore, June 2026 was designated as the second-warmest June on record, featuring average temperatures that soared 3.2°C above the norm.&nbsp;The severe heatwave, which began scorching Europe in late June, was identified by the World Weather Attribution group of scientists as the most intense ever recorded on the continent. The group stated that experiencing such extreme conditions in June would have been "virtually impossible" without the influence of climate change.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-parisians-are-abandoning-their-homes-and-heading-outdoors-during-the-deadly-heatwave-wion-decodes-1782535651165">Why Parisians are abandoning their homes and heading outdoors during the deadly heatwave | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;The extreme weather broke records across the continent. All-time temperature highs were shattered in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. Additionally, the United Kingdom and Switzerland broke their respective temperature records for the month of June. Meanwhile, France encountered record-breaking average temperatures and experienced its highest-ever nighttime temperatures.&nbsp;A severe, record-breaking heatwave in France, marking the hottest since 1947. The extreme weather has forced major Paris tourist attractions to close early. The decision has disrupted vacations for thousands of visitors. More than half of mainland France is currently under the highest weather alert level. Tourists are experiencing widespread disappointment as they cope with suffocating conditions on the streets, in the subway, and in non-air-conditioned rentals.&nbsp;

Spain records its hottest first six months ever as heatwave fatalities surpass 1,028—more than double the death toll from the same period last year.

The European heatwave caused more than 1,000 deaths in Spain, officials stated on Wednesday (July 1). This coincides with the country recording its hottest first six months ever. According to the Carlos III Health Institute, heat-related issues during this period resulted in at least 1,028 fatalities. This toll is more than double the 407 heat-attributed deaths recorded in June 2025, which the national weather agency, AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología), noted was previously Spain's hottest June on record. https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-heatwave-paris-mortuaries-overwhelmed-after-record-heatwave-1782808031234/embed AEMET reported on X on Wednesday (July 1) that the first six months of 2026 were Spain's warmest first half of a year since records began, with average temperatures reaching 1.6°C above normal levels. The agency highlighted that the seven hottest first semesters have all occurred within the past decade. Furthermore, June 2026 was designated as the second-warmest June on record, featuring average temperatures that soared 3.2°C above the norm. The severe heatwave, which began scorching Europe in late June, was identified by the World Weather Attribution group of scientists as the most intense ever recorded on the continent. The group stated that experiencing such extreme conditions in June would have been "virtually impossible" without the influence of climate change. Also read: Why Parisians are abandoning their homes and heading outdoors during the deadly heatwave | WION Decodes The extreme weather broke records across the continent. All-time temperature highs were shattered in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. Additionally, the United Kingdom and Switzerland broke their respective temperature records for the month of June. Meanwhile, France encountered record-breaking average temperatures and experienced its highest-ever nighttime temperatures. A severe, record-breaking heatwave in France, marking the hottest since 1947. The extreme weather has forced major Paris tourist attractions to close early. The decision has disrupted vacations for thousands of visitors. More than half of mainland France is currently under the highest weather alert level. Tourists are experiencing widespread disappointment as they cope with suffocating conditions on the streets, in the subway, and in non-air-conditioned rentals.

Spain records its hottest first six months ever as heatwave fatalities surpass 1,028—more than double the death toll from the same period last year.

Spain heatwave: Over 1,000 dead as country marks hottest first 6 months on record

Amid the fragile ceasefire, Iran and Oman are moving forward with a plan to implement a fee on the Strait of Hormuz, despite repeated opposition from the US. Oman has submitted a formal proposal to the US and other Western allies, according to Iranian officials and four other diplomats, as reported by the New York Times. The plan mandates a service fee for Iranian officials to use the Strait of Hormuz. The Times also reported that US officials have confirmed the reception of the proposal, and they have some concerns which they are discussing with the Omani side.&nbsp;The proposal is said to be inspired by the Strait of Malacca and Singapore, where industry contributions fund the maritime safety, navigational assistance and mitigate environmental concerns. The fees are primarily “voluntary” in nature. The cooperative mechanism has been in place on the Strait of Malacca since 2007 and acts as a voluntary framework.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-economic-growth-dprk-boom-explained-1782741508130">Is North Korea's economy really booming? Inside the debate over the DPRK's growth story</a>However, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, on Monday had said that it wants to come into a joint framework for the strait, but if Oman is unwilling to consider, then it would move ahead on its own, as reported by Iranian state media. The Omani side, which has found it increasingly tough in its balancing act between the US and Iran, argues that, if the Sultanate does not engage in establishing a structured, legal mechanism to manage navigation on the strait, then Iran would unilaterally enforce a mechanism against International maritime law.While Oman has maintained a neutral position publicly, recently, Oman's foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi, said in an interview on Sunday with Monte Carlo Doualiya, an Arabic-language radio station, said that keeping the Strait waters safe and pollution-free costs money. “All we are saying is that perhaps we can benefit from some existing experiences, on a voluntary basis, between the countries concerned with this matter.”US President Donald Trump has repeatedly denied the concept of toll for transit in the strait, he has on one occasion, threatened to bomb Oman if it seeks to implement a toll on the Strait. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the US would oppose any scenario to monetise the Strait wether “a fee or a toll or a donation.” “We need to get back to what the straits looked like before this conflict,” said Rubio.But analysts suggest Iran is unlikely to give up its newfound leverage on the Strait. “There is no free service anywhere in the world,” said Mehdi Mohammadi, a senior adviser to Gen. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's lead negotiator with the US. The European countries are reportedly ready to compromise by paying a fee; however, they are concerned about its legal implications. European analysts argue that this is not Oman's doing; the strait was open ahead of the war, and it is all "Washington’s bill for starting an ill-advised war.”&nbsp;

Iran and Oman are advancing a proposal to charge a service fee for using the Strait of Hormuz despite US opposition, raising fresh concerns over global shipping.

Amid the fragile ceasefire, Iran and Oman are moving forward with a plan to implement a fee on the Strait of Hormuz, despite repeated opposition from the US. Oman has submitted a formal proposal to the US and other Western allies, according to Iranian officials and four other diplomats, as reported by the New York Times. The plan mandates a service fee for Iranian officials to use the Strait of Hormuz. The Times also reported that US officials have confirmed the reception of the proposal, and they have some concerns which they are discussing with the Omani side. The proposal is said to be inspired by the Strait of Malacca and Singapore, where industry contributions fund the maritime safety, navigational assistance and mitigate environmental concerns. The fees are primarily “voluntary” in nature. The cooperative mechanism has been in place on the Strait of Malacca since 2007 and acts as a voluntary framework. Also Read: Is North Korea's economy really booming? Inside the debate over the DPRK's growth story However, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, on Monday had said that it wants to come into a joint framework for the strait, but if Oman is unwilling to consider, then it would move ahead on its own, as reported by Iranian state media. The Omani side, which has found it increasingly tough in its balancing act between the US and Iran, argues that, if the Sultanate does not engage in establishing a structured, legal mechanism to manage navigation on the strait, then Iran would unilaterally enforce a mechanism against International maritime law. While Oman has maintained a neutral position publicly, recently, Oman's foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi, said in an interview on Sunday with Monte Carlo Doualiya, an Arabic-language radio station, said that keeping the Strait waters safe and pollution-free costs money. “All we are saying is that perhaps we can benefit from some existing experiences, on a voluntary basis, between the countries concerned with this matter.” US President Donald Trump has repeatedly denied the concept of toll for transit in the strait, he has on one occasion, threatened to bomb Oman if it seeks to implement a toll on the Strait. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the US would oppose any scenario to monetise the Strait wether “a fee or a toll or a donation.” “We need to get back to what the straits looked like before this conflict,” said Rubio. But analysts suggest Iran is unlikely to give up its newfound leverage on the Strait. “There is no free service anywhere in the world,” said Mehdi Mohammadi, a senior adviser to Gen. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's lead negotiator with the US. The European countries are reportedly ready to compromise by paying a fee; however, they are concerned about its legal implications. European analysts argue that this is not Oman's doing; the strait was open ahead of the war, and it is all "Washington’s bill for starting an ill-advised war.”

Iran and Oman are advancing a proposal to charge a service fee for using the Strait of Hormuz despite US opposition, raising fresh concerns over global shipping.

Iran, Oman push for Strait of Hormuz fee despite US opposition

Prime Minister of Japan, Sanae Takaichi, is arriving today to attend the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in New Delhi, her first official visit since coming to power. Her visit sparks a natural interest in the Japanese culture, cuisine and its almost mythical reputation for discipline.&nbsp;For many in India, Japan is the land of anime, sushi and bullet trains, where there is a lot of stress on discipline. These symbols have shaped Japan’s global image, but they represent only a fraction of its soft power.As Delhi and Tokyo deepen strategic cooperation, India needs to look beyond the familiar clichés to really benefit from the partnership. Reducing a sophisticated nation to some countable symbols risks overlooking the ideas, cultural traditions and institutions that define its influence.&nbsp;Soft power reflects a country’s values, culture, institutions, creativity and ability to attract and influence others without coercion.&nbsp;Japan’s anime franchises such as Naruto, One Piece and Demon Slayer have millions of Indian followers. The popularity of Japanese cuisine has gone beyond restaurants in metropolitan cities, while values and practices like punctuality, cleanliness and work ethic are awe-inspiring.However, this popular imagery tends to overshadow many important aspects and qualities. Japan is known for its design, technology, craftsmanship, education and cultural continuity.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-biz-honchos-accompanying-japan-s-pm-to-delhi-eager-to-ride-on-india-s-growth-story-1782768835501">50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story</a>&nbsp;Japan’s manufacturing reputation is itself a form of soft power. Brands associated with reliability, precision and long-term quality have reinforced trust in Japanese products across sectors ranging from automobiles to consumer electronics.India has experienced this influence firsthand over several decades now. Japanese companies operating in India have introduced workplace practices focused on continuous improvement, quality control and employee participation, concepts that have shaped segments of Indian industry.&nbsp;<h2>Japan is much more than its pop culture</h2>&nbsp;Japan’s cultural exports have remarkable success across India. Anime series such as Naruto, One Piece and Demon Slayer have millions of devoted Indian fans. Manga, gaming and cosplay conventions now attract growing audiences, reflecting Japan’s enduring appeal among younger Indians.&nbsp;<h2>The strength of trust, reputation</h2>&nbsp;Japan’s global reputation has been built over decades through quality manufacturing, design excellence, craftsmanship and technological reliability.Japanese automobiles, precision engineering and consumer electronics established an image of trust long before anime entered mainstream global culture.&nbsp;Concepts like kaizen, meaning continuous improvement, and meticulous quality control transformed many manufacturing sectors in India.&nbsp;<h2>Beyond the discipline myth</h2>&nbsp;Among Indians, Japan is frequently portrayed as a society where everyone follows rules, works tirelessly and prioritises the collective over the individual. There is nothing wrong in this perception, but it often overlooks the historical and social factors that shaped these behaviours.&nbsp;Discipline is less of an innate national trait than the outcome of sustained social investment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-announces-extra-15bn-for-defence-says-road-and-energy-projects-to-be-scrapped-for-funds-1782827331880">Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds</a>&nbsp;<h2>Where tradition meets innovation</h2>&nbsp;Japan’s greatest soft-power achievement perhaps lies in its ability to preserve tradition while embracing technological change. Ancient practices like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, pottery, ikebana and traditional theatre continue to flourish alongside robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge medical research. This coexistence of heritage and innovation is a defining feature of Japan’s image.The country’s literary influence is equally significant as contemporary writers like Haruki Murakami have introduced global audiences to modern Japanese society through narratives that blend urban life, memory and imagination.&nbsp;Japanese architecture and minimalist design continue to inspire professionals worldwide, influencing everything from interior design to product development.&nbsp;<h2>How have India-Japan ties been?</h2>&nbsp;India’s partnership with Japan has grown rapidly over the past decade. Japanese investments have supported metro rail systems, industrial corridors, manufacturing projects and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project. PM Takaichi’s visit will further boost collaboration in semiconductors, clean energy, digital technologies and resilient supply chains as well.

Japan’s manufacturing reputation is itself a form of soft power. Brands associated with reliability, precision and long-term quality have reinforced trust in Japanese products across sectors ranging from automobiles to consumer electronics.

Prime Minister of Japan, Sanae Takaichi, is arriving today to attend the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in New Delhi, her first official visit since coming to power. Her visit sparks a natural interest in the Japanese culture, cuisine and its almost mythical reputation for discipline. For many in India, Japan is the land of anime, sushi and bullet trains, where there is a lot of stress on discipline. These symbols have shaped Japan’s global image, but they represent only a fraction of its soft power. As Delhi and Tokyo deepen strategic cooperation, India needs to look beyond the familiar clichés to really benefit from the partnership. Reducing a sophisticated nation to some countable symbols risks overlooking the ideas, cultural traditions and institutions that define its influence. Soft power reflects a country’s values, culture, institutions, creativity and ability to attract and influence others without coercion. Japan’s anime franchises such as Naruto, One Piece and Demon Slayer have millions of Indian followers. The popularity of Japanese cuisine has gone beyond restaurants in metropolitan cities, while values and practices like punctuality, cleanliness and work ethic are awe-inspiring. However, this popular imagery tends to overshadow many important aspects and qualities. Japan is known for its design, technology, craftsmanship, education and cultural continuity. Also Read: 50 biz honchos accompanying Japan’s PM to Delhi, eager to ride on India’s growth story Japan’s manufacturing reputation is itself a form of soft power. Brands associated with reliability, precision and long-term quality have reinforced trust in Japanese products across sectors ranging from automobiles to consumer electronics. India has experienced this influence firsthand over several decades now. Japanese companies operating in India have introduced workplace practices focused on continuous improvement, quality control and employee participation, concepts that have shaped segments of Indian industry. Japan is much more than its pop culture Japan’s cultural exports have remarkable success across India. Anime series such as Naruto, One Piece and Demon Slayer have millions of devoted Indian fans. Manga, gaming and cosplay conventions now attract growing audiences, reflecting Japan’s enduring appeal among younger Indians. The strength of trust, reputation Japan’s global reputation has been built over decades through quality manufacturing, design excellence, craftsmanship and technological reliability. Japanese automobiles, precision engineering and consumer electronics established an image of trust long before anime entered mainstream global culture. Concepts like kaizen, meaning continuous improvement, and meticulous quality control transformed many manufacturing sectors in India. Beyond the discipline myth Among Indians, Japan is frequently portrayed as a society where everyone follows rules, works tirelessly and prioritises the collective over the individual. There is nothing wrong in this perception, but it often overlooks the historical and social factors that shaped these behaviours. Discipline is less of an innate national trait than the outcome of sustained social investment. Also Read: Starmer announces extra £15bn for defence, says road and energy projects to be scrapped for funds Where tradition meets innovation Japan’s greatest soft-power achievement perhaps lies in its ability to preserve tradition while embracing technological change. Ancient practices like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, pottery, ikebana and traditional theatre continue to flourish alongside robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge medical research. This coexistence of heritage and innovation is a defining feature of Japan’s image. The country’s literary influence is equally significant as contemporary writers like Haruki Murakami have introduced global audiences to modern Japanese society through narratives that blend urban life, memory and imagination. Japanese architecture and minimalist design continue to inspire professionals worldwide, influencing everything from interior design to product development. How have India-Japan ties been? India’s partnership with Japan has grown rapidly over the past decade. Japanese investments have supported metro rail systems, industrial corridors, manufacturing projects and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project. PM Takaichi’s visit will further boost collaboration in semiconductors, clean energy, digital technologies and resilient supply chains as well.

Japan’s manufacturing reputation is itself a form of soft power. Brands associated with reliability, precision and long-term quality have reinforced trust in Japanese products across sectors ranging from automobiles to consumer electronics.

Decoding Japan’s soft power and cultural influence India, others tend to overlook

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is visiting India from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. Talks during her first visit to India as Japanese PM will cover defence, economic security, semiconductors, critical minerals and Indo-Pacific security. The visit is also likely to push &nbsp;an "Industrial Value Chain" linking the Bay of Bengal to Northeast India. &nbsp;A key area to examine in this context is the India-Japan free trade agreement, and how it sits inside frameworks like the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). The meeting of the two energy-importer nations is taking place amid a perceived US thaw with China under President Trump. China was once central to Indo-Pacific calculations. That appeared to change in June, when the Pentagon renamed US Indo-Pacific Command back to US Pacific Command, dropping "Indo" from the title after eight years. US officials called it symbolic. The area of responsibility, stretching to India's western maritime boundary, stays <a href="https://www.pacom.mil/Media/Press-Releases-and-Readouts/Article/4519249/department-of-war-restores-us-pacific-command-designation/">unchanged</a>. But the naming carries signal value in this region. Amid this backdrop, let us examine the trade relations of India and Japan.<h2>Setting the context: Trade, FOIP, and shifting equations</h2>FOIP has anchored India-Japan strategic and economic thinking for over a decade. Trade policy, maritime security, and China-related calculations move together for both nations. The specific free trade pact (FTA) is the India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA. The stated aim of FOIP and CEPA are interconnected: supply chain resilience, digital cooperation, and larger Japanese investment into India. Japan's FOIP vision rests on free trade, rule of law, and freedom of navigation. This aligns with India's Act East policy, the Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative (IPOI), and SAGAR — Security and Growth for All in the Region. Japan leads the Maritime Trade, Transport, and Connectivity pillar under IPOI, aimed at keeping commerce rules-based across the region including India. Bilateral annual summits have steadily widened cooperation into semiconductors, critical minerals, and AI to secure trade routes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/takaichi-s-india-visit-decoding-india-japan-joint-vision-for-next-decade-and-its-eight-pillars-1782856460066">Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade and its eight pillars</a><h2>India-Japan free trade pact: Prospects and problems</h2>The <a href="https://www.commerce.gov.in/international-trade/trade-agreements/india-japan-cepa/">CEPA</a>, in force since August 2011, cut tariffs on roughly 94 per cent of goods traded between India and Japan over 10 years. Indian exports like textiles, gems, and marine products gained access to Japan, while Japanese exports like electronics and machinery went to India. But rice, wheat, and dairy — sectors where India has real export interest — stayed largely excluded. The trade imbalance shows in the numbers. Bilateral <a href="https://www.ibef.org/indian-exports/india-japan-trade">trade</a> touched $25.17 billion in FY25. Japan's imports from India stood at $6.73 billion in 2025, while India's <a href="https://www.ibef.org/indian-exports/india-japan-trade">imports</a> from Japan is higher, across machinery, electronics, copper and chemicals. The gap favours Japan structurally, not cyclically. The two nations are in the process of renegotiating CEPA. The 7th Joint Committee Meeting was held in Tokyo in March 2026. India <a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2235329®=3&amp;lang=1">pressed</a> for better market access in textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and services, and for a more balanced trade relationship. Rice access remains a live issue, though no breakthrough is confirmed.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-s-pm-sanae-takaichi-to-land-in-india-today-1782894450088/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-s-pm-sanae-takaichi-to-land-in-india-today-1782894450088/embed</a><h2>Where CEPA can expand in the larger context of free and open Indo-Pacific</h2>Three areas stand out for widening India's exports to Japan and narrowing the trade deficit.First is defence. Both countries have flagged defence-tech cooperation as a summit priority, but this sits outside CEPA's current scope. Bringing defence manufacturing and co-production into the trade framework could be a natural next step.Services and skilled mobility is the second. India already has a Specified Skilled Worker <a href="https://www.indembassy-tokyo.gov.in/eoityo_pages/NjA">MoC</a> with Japan, and both sides agreed in 2025 to a five-year target of moving 50,000 skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers to Japan. Deepening services access under CEPA can build on this.AI and emerging tech are the third. Takaichi's op-ed column for the Times of India mentioned AI cooperation. And the groundwork already exists. India and Japan launched a Japan-India AI Cooperation <a href="https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/15th-india-japan-annual-summit-joint-statement-partnership-for-security-and-prosperity-of-our-next-generation">Initiative</a> in August 2025, covering LLMs, joint research, and data centre development. The first India-Japan Strategic AI Dialogue was held in Mumbai in April this year. This is the most likely potential area to formalise inside the CEPA, alongside an Economic Security Initiative already covering semiconductors, clean energy, telecom, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-xi-jinping-calls-taiwan-historic-mission-hours-before-japan-pm-takaichi-s-india-visit-1782894225091">China's Xi Jinping calls Taiwan 'historic mission' hours before Japan PM Takaichi's India visit: Is it a warning?</a><h2>Connecting the Northeast and beyond: An industrial value chain for India and Japan</h2>Takaichi's op-ed for this visit also raises the Industrial Value Chain concept, connecting Assam through Northeast India and Bangladesh to the Indian Ocean. She named two projects funded through Japanese ODA: the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge and Matarbari Port in Bangladesh. The stated goal is linking India's Northeast to ASEAN, with spillover gains for Nepal and Bhutan.This sits outside CEPA's formal text. But it matters for the same reason CEPA does. Infrastructure funded through Japanese ODA could unlock the Northeast's geography, turning a landlocked region into a corridor between South and Southeast Asia. The context is that Japan remains India's largest bilateral official development assistance <a href="https://www.indembassy-tokyo.gov.in/eoityo_pages/NjA">donor</a>, with cumulative commitments above JPY 8.5 trillion. The summit's real test will be whether these strands — CEPA renegotiation, AI cooperation, and connectivity infrastructure — get folded into one coherent economic architecture under the larger framework of Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit focuses on trade, maritime security and Indo-Pacific connectivity, with emphasis on Northeast India and supply chains. It is a good time to take a look at the two nations' free trade agreement. Is there scope for expansion and improvement?

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is visiting India from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. Talks during her first visit to India as Japanese PM will cover defence, economic security, semiconductors, critical minerals and Indo-Pacific security. The visit is also likely to push an "Industrial Value Chain" linking the Bay of Bengal to Northeast India. A key area to examine in this context is the India-Japan free trade agreement, and how it sits inside frameworks like the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). The meeting of the two energy-importer nations is taking place amid a perceived US thaw with China under President Trump. China was once central to Indo-Pacific calculations. That appeared to change in June, when the Pentagon renamed US Indo-Pacific Command back to US Pacific Command, dropping "Indo" from the title after eight years. US officials called it symbolic. The area of responsibility, stretching to India's western maritime boundary, stays unchanged. But the naming carries signal value in this region. Amid this backdrop, let us examine the trade relations of India and Japan. Setting the context: Trade, FOIP, and shifting equations FOIP has anchored India-Japan strategic and economic thinking for over a decade. Trade policy, maritime security, and China-related calculations move together for both nations. The specific free trade pact (FTA) is the India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA. The stated aim of FOIP and CEPA are interconnected: supply chain resilience, digital cooperation, and larger Japanese investment into India. Japan's FOIP vision rests on free trade, rule of law, and freedom of navigation. This aligns with India's Act East policy, the Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative (IPOI), and SAGAR — Security and Growth for All in the Region. Japan leads the Maritime Trade, Transport, and Connectivity pillar under IPOI, aimed at keeping commerce rules-based across the region including India. Bilateral annual summits have steadily widened cooperation into semiconductors, critical minerals, and AI to secure trade routes. Also read: Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade and its eight pillars India-Japan free trade pact: Prospects and problems The CEPA, in force since August 2011, cut tariffs on roughly 94 per cent of goods traded between India and Japan over 10 years. Indian exports like textiles, gems, and marine products gained access to Japan, while Japanese exports like electronics and machinery went to India. But rice, wheat, and dairy — sectors where India has real export interest — stayed largely excluded. The trade imbalance shows in the numbers. Bilateral trade touched $25.17 billion in FY25. Japan's imports from India stood at $6.73 billion in 2025, while India's imports from Japan is higher, across machinery, electronics, copper and chemicals. The gap favours Japan structurally, not cyclically. The two nations are in the process of renegotiating CEPA. The 7th Joint Committee Meeting was held in Tokyo in March 2026. India pressed for better market access in textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and services, and for a more balanced trade relationship. Rice access remains a live issue, though no breakthrough is confirmed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-summit-japan-s-pm-sanae-takaichi-to-land-in-india-today-1782894450088/embed Where CEPA can expand in the larger context of free and open Indo-Pacific Three areas stand out for widening India's exports to Japan and narrowing the trade deficit. First is defence. Both countries have flagged defence-tech cooperation as a summit priority, but this sits outside CEPA's current scope. Bringing defence manufacturing and co-production into the trade framework could be a natural next step. Services and skilled mobility is the second. India already has a Specified Skilled Worker MoC with Japan, and both sides agreed in 2025 to a five-year target of moving 50,000 skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers to Japan. Deepening services access under CEPA can build on this. AI and emerging tech are the third. Takaichi's op-ed column for the Times of India mentioned AI cooperation. And the groundwork already exists. India and Japan launched a Japan-India AI Cooperation Initiative in August 2025, covering LLMs, joint research, and data centre development. The first India-Japan Strategic AI Dialogue was held in Mumbai in April this year. This is the most likely potential area to formalise inside the CEPA, alongside an Economic Security Initiative already covering semiconductors, clean energy, telecom, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals. Also read: China's Xi Jinping calls Taiwan 'historic mission' hours before Japan PM Takaichi's India visit: Is it a warning? Connecting the Northeast and beyond: An industrial value chain for India and Japan Takaichi's op-ed for this visit also raises the Industrial Value Chain concept, connecting Assam through Northeast India and Bangladesh to the Indian Ocean. She named two projects funded through Japanese ODA: the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge and Matarbari Port in Bangladesh. The stated goal is linking India's Northeast to ASEAN, with spillover gains for Nepal and Bhutan. This sits outside CEPA's formal text. But it matters for the same reason CEPA does. Infrastructure funded through Japanese ODA could unlock the Northeast's geography, turning a landlocked region into a corridor between South and Southeast Asia. The context is that Japan remains India's largest bilateral official development assistance donor, with cumulative commitments above JPY 8.5 trillion. The summit's real test will be whether these strands — CEPA renegotiation, AI cooperation, and connectivity infrastructure — get folded into one coherent economic architecture under the larger framework of Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit focuses on trade, maritime security and Indo-Pacific connectivity, with emphasis on Northeast India and supply chains. It is a good time to take a look at the two nations' free trade agreement. Is there scope for expansion and improvement?

Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit and the state of free trade: Can more be expected under Indo-Pacific cooperation context?

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to arrive in India for her first official state visit. Takaichi will land in the national capital on Wednesday evening for her three-day official visit to India from July 1 to 3. The vital summit between Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as per India's Ministry of External Affairs, offers a chance to "review and strengthen the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation as well as exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest."India and Japan share a "Special Strategic and Global Partnership," characterised by deep economic investments, strategic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, and cultural ties. The relationship between the two nations focuses on manufacturing, AI, supply chain resilience, and infrastructure.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semiconductors-to-biogas-what-s-really-on-the-table-at-the-modi-takaichi-summit-wion-decodes-1782721446269">Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes</a>A high-speed bullet train line happens to be one of the ambitious cooperative projects between India and Japan. The much-vaunted project, using Japanese "Shinkansen" technology, was launched in 2017 by PM Modi and his then-Japanese counterpart&nbsp;Shinzo Abe. What's the scorecard? How far has the project come? WION Decodes.<h2>Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Project</h2>Back in 2017, India and Japan agreed to a strategic partnership to introduce and co-manufacture the next-generation E10 Shinkansen bullet trains on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor. The project at the time was planned to be completed by 2023.The ambitious project to introduce India's first high-speed bullet train line has, however, been mired in cost overruns and delays.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed</a><h2>Partial opening expected by 2027</h2>Almost a decade after work began on the high-speed bullet train line, a section of the project between Mumbai, India's financial capital and Ahmedabad, the key city in Modi's home state of Gujarat, may become operational by 2027, say Indian railway ministry officials.Talking to AFP, Dharmendra Tewari, Indian Railways' additional director general, said that "a considerable amount of work on the entire corridor has already been completed"."The first section of the bullet train will be operational in 2027, between the cities of Surat and Vapi," he added. The two cities, Surat, the global diamond cutting centre, and Vapi, known for its chemical and manufacturing industries, are about 100 kilometres apart.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-ties-to-go-beyond-the-handshake-1782882666775">India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake</a><h2>E10 deal, retired E5/E3 sets</h2>The partial opening has been made possible by "Japan’s offer to introduce, in the early 2030s, the E10 series of the Shinkansen that runs on the Japanese signalling system," said MEA in a press release, dated 29 August, 2025.Japan, as per reports, has agreed to bypass older E5/E3 models on the main route, choosing instead to debut the next-generation E10 in India concurrently with its rollout in Japan."The knowledge, skills and capabilities developed through the project are expected to support future high-speed rail corridors across the country," the government's plan reads.The proposed network would feature an east-west corridor connecting New Delhi with Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities, before extending to the strategically important city of Siliguri, the gateway linking India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country.A second corridor would run roughly north to south from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, then stretch southeast across the country to connect key technology hubs, including Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The Indian government describes these planned routes as “growth connectors.”

Before the Modi-Takaichi summit, India's bullet train report card looks like this: E10 deal locked in, Surat-Vapi section nearing completion, manufacturing ambitions expanding, but cost overruns and delays continue to shadow the project. WION Decodes.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to arrive in India for her first official state visit. Takaichi will land in the national capital on Wednesday evening for her three-day official visit to India from July 1 to 3. The vital summit between Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as per India's Ministry of External Affairs, offers a chance to "review and strengthen the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation as well as exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest." India and Japan share a "Special Strategic and Global Partnership," characterised by deep economic investments, strategic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, and cultural ties. The relationship between the two nations focuses on manufacturing, AI, supply chain resilience, and infrastructure. Also read | Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes A high-speed bullet train line happens to be one of the ambitious cooperative projects between India and Japan. The much-vaunted project, using Japanese "Shinkansen" technology, was launched in 2017 by PM Modi and his then-Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe. What's the scorecard? How far has the project come? WION Decodes. Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Project Back in 2017, India and Japan agreed to a strategic partnership to introduce and co-manufacture the next-generation E10 Shinkansen bullet trains on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor. The project at the time was planned to be completed by 2023. The ambitious project to introduce India's first high-speed bullet train line has, however, been mired in cost overruns and delays. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed Partial opening expected by 2027 Almost a decade after work began on the high-speed bullet train line, a section of the project between Mumbai, India's financial capital and Ahmedabad, the key city in Modi's home state of Gujarat, may become operational by 2027, say Indian railway ministry officials. Talking to AFP, Dharmendra Tewari, Indian Railways' additional director general, said that "a considerable amount of work on the entire corridor has already been completed". "The first section of the bullet train will be operational in 2027, between the cities of Surat and Vapi," he added. The two cities, Surat, the global diamond cutting centre, and Vapi, known for its chemical and manufacturing industries, are about 100 kilometres apart. Also read | India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake E10 deal, retired E5/E3 sets The partial opening has been made possible by "Japan’s offer to introduce, in the early 2030s, the E10 series of the Shinkansen that runs on the Japanese signalling system," said MEA in a press release, dated 29 August, 2025. Japan, as per reports, has agreed to bypass older E5/E3 models on the main route, choosing instead to debut the next-generation E10 in India concurrently with its rollout in Japan. "The knowledge, skills and capabilities developed through the project are expected to support future high-speed rail corridors across the country," the government's plan reads. The proposed network would feature an east-west corridor connecting New Delhi with Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities, before extending to the strategically important city of Siliguri, the gateway linking India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country. A second corridor would run roughly north to south from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, then stretch southeast across the country to connect key technology hubs, including Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The Indian government describes these planned routes as “growth connectors.”

Before the Modi-Takaichi summit, India's bullet train report card looks like this: E10 deal locked in, Surat-Vapi section nearing completion, manufacturing ambitions expanding, but cost overruns and delays continue to shadow the project. WION Decodes.

Bullet train scorecard before Modi-Takaichi summit: E10 deal, 2027 partial opening, 8-year delay

The Gelephu–Dalu Corridor is an important multi-nation economic and transport route integrating Bhutan, Northeast India, and Bangladesh. The project is centred around the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) in southern Bhutan and also an infrastructural axis that links landlocked South Asian nations to Southeast Asian markets and the Bay of Bengal. It is a 69 km cross-border railway from Assam to Gelephu, declared a Special Railway Project, fully financed by the Government of India, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. However, the corridor is heavily backed by the Official Development Assistance (ODA) of Japan, which funds regional roadways, the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge (connecting Assam and Meghalaya), and cross-border highway integrations. The project was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 March 2026. The planned corridor consists of two routes connecting Assam and West Bengal to Gelephu and Samtse in Bhutan, respectively. Construction of both links is set to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with a combined estimated cost of &nbsp;Rs 4,033 crore. These initiatives come under the Rs 10,000-crore development assistance commitment by India to Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029).<h3>How is the project important for Bhutan?</h3>Bhutan's economic development by addressing long-standing challenges associated with its landlocked geography. The new rail links will establish Bhutan's first railway network and connect the country to India's 150,000-km broad-gauge rail system, providing direct access to major industrial centres such as Bongaigaon. This is expected to ease congestion at key border points like Phuentsholing and improve the movement of bulk cargo. The Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link will act as a crucial transport corridor for the proposed 2,600 sq km Special Administrative Region, helping transform Gelephu into a global technology, investment and innovation hub. Similarly, the 16-km rail connection to Samtse will facilitate the efficient transport of key industrial commodities such as dolomite, ferro-silicon, quartzite and stone chips, strengthening western Bhutan's industrial base and supporting related infrastructure projects. In addition, the rail links will enhance Bhutan's integration into regional supply chains through the BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) framework. Improved connectivity could provide access to Bangladesh's Chittagong and Mongla ports, reducing dependence on a single market and lowering transit costs. This would boost exports of hydropower-based industrial products, organic produce and processed foods while encouraging industrial diversification following Bhutan's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2023. Overall, the projects are expected to attract investment, stimulate industrial and tourism growth, and deepen economic integration between Bhutan, India and the wider region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bullet-train-to-moon-mission-what-are-the-key-india-japan-projects-shaping-strategic-ties-1782884414340">From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects shaping strategic ties?</a><h3>How is it of strategic importance for India?</h3>For India, the connectivity through Assam and West Bengal can bolster local economies, improve accessibility of market, and strengthen logistics networks in the northeast. At a larger stage, the project helps to deepen India–Bhutan economic interdependence while reinforcing New Delhi's role as a regional integrator.&nbsp;The project acts as an effective fiscal multiplier, which will act as a major developmental catalyst for India’s Northeast Region (NER), which is being supported by a record Rs 11,486 crore budgetary allocation for regional rail expansion in 2026. &nbsp;The proposed railway links are expected to strengthen the economic integration of India's Northeast with neighbouring countries, turning the region into a key gateway for trade and connectivity between South Asia and Southeast Asia. By linking the Northeast to a broader transnational transport network, the project can enhance long-term economic resilience, boost trade opportunities and support regional development. Beyond economic benefits, the rail links also carry significant strategic importance. They align with India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and reinforce Bhutan's role in India's northern security framework. The development of high-capacity railway infrastructure near the strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the Chicken's Neck, will improve logistical capabilities and provide greater strategic depth. The network could facilitate rapid movement during humanitarian emergencies and defence operations while contributing to regional stability. The project also advances regional integration under the BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) initiative and showcases India's leadership in connectivity development. Additionally, advanced safeguards such as AI-based Intrusion Detection Systems have been incorporated to protect wildlife corridors, particularly those used by elephants.<h3>Japan's other project in the Northeast</h3>Japan's other project in the same region includes the North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project, where the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided JPY 34,537 million (INR 1,946 crore) for Phase 3(II), funding the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge, the longest river bridge in India, connecting Assam and Meghalaya across the Brahmaputra. In addition, it also covers 750 km of roads, National Highway upgrades like NH-208 in Tripura (JPY 23,129 million or INR 1,492 crore), and the Gelephu-Dalu Corridor, integrating Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh to boost intra-regional links. The projects are designed to improve connectivity between Northeast India and the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, creating new avenues for trade, investment and socio-economic growth. To support this objective, Japan has invested more than $2 billion through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme as of 2021, with funding continuing to increase. These investments help bridge critical infrastructure gaps in a region of significant strategic importance. The initiative not only strengthens India's efforts to integrate the Northeast more closely with regional and global markets but also highlights Japan's role as a trusted partner in promoting sustainable infrastructure development and long-term economic progress.

The planned corridor consists of two routes connecting Assam and West Bengal to Gelephu and Samtse in Bhutan, respectively. Construction of both links is set to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with a combined estimated cost of  Rs 4,033 crore.

The Gelephu–Dalu Corridor is an important multi-nation economic and transport route integrating Bhutan, Northeast India, and Bangladesh. The project is centred around the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) in southern Bhutan and also an infrastructural axis that links landlocked South Asian nations to Southeast Asian markets and the Bay of Bengal. It is a 69 km cross-border railway from Assam to Gelephu, declared a Special Railway Project, fully financed by the Government of India, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. However, the corridor is heavily backed by the Official Development Assistance (ODA) of Japan, which funds regional roadways, the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge (connecting Assam and Meghalaya), and cross-border highway integrations. The project was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 March 2026. The planned corridor consists of two routes connecting Assam and West Bengal to Gelephu and Samtse in Bhutan, respectively. Construction of both links is set to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with a combined estimated cost of Rs 4,033 crore. These initiatives come under the Rs 10,000-crore development assistance commitment by India to Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029). How is the project important for Bhutan? Bhutan's economic development by addressing long-standing challenges associated with its landlocked geography. The new rail links will establish Bhutan's first railway network and connect the country to India's 150,000-km broad-gauge rail system, providing direct access to major industrial centres such as Bongaigaon. This is expected to ease congestion at key border points like Phuentsholing and improve the movement of bulk cargo. The Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link will act as a crucial transport corridor for the proposed 2,600 sq km Special Administrative Region, helping transform Gelephu into a global technology, investment and innovation hub. Similarly, the 16-km rail connection to Samtse will facilitate the efficient transport of key industrial commodities such as dolomite, ferro-silicon, quartzite and stone chips, strengthening western Bhutan's industrial base and supporting related infrastructure projects. In addition, the rail links will enhance Bhutan's integration into regional supply chains through the BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) framework. Improved connectivity could provide access to Bangladesh's Chittagong and Mongla ports, reducing dependence on a single market and lowering transit costs. This would boost exports of hydropower-based industrial products, organic produce and processed foods while encouraging industrial diversification following Bhutan's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2023. Overall, the projects are expected to attract investment, stimulate industrial and tourism growth, and deepen economic integration between Bhutan, India and the wider region. Also read: From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects shaping strategic ties? How is it of strategic importance for India? For India, the connectivity through Assam and West Bengal can bolster local economies, improve accessibility of market, and strengthen logistics networks in the northeast. At a larger stage, the project helps to deepen India–Bhutan economic interdependence while reinforcing New Delhi's role as a regional integrator. The project acts as an effective fiscal multiplier, which will act as a major developmental catalyst for India’s Northeast Region (NER), which is being supported by a record Rs 11,486 crore budgetary allocation for regional rail expansion in 2026. The proposed railway links are expected to strengthen the economic integration of India's Northeast with neighbouring countries, turning the region into a key gateway for trade and connectivity between South Asia and Southeast Asia. By linking the Northeast to a broader transnational transport network, the project can enhance long-term economic resilience, boost trade opportunities and support regional development. Beyond economic benefits, the rail links also carry significant strategic importance. They align with India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and reinforce Bhutan's role in India's northern security framework. The development of high-capacity railway infrastructure near the strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the Chicken's Neck, will improve logistical capabilities and provide greater strategic depth. The network could facilitate rapid movement during humanitarian emergencies and defence operations while contributing to regional stability. The project also advances regional integration under the BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) initiative and showcases India's leadership in connectivity development. Additionally, advanced safeguards such as AI-based Intrusion Detection Systems have been incorporated to protect wildlife corridors, particularly those used by elephants. Japan's other project in the Northeast Japan's other project in the same region includes the North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project, where the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided JPY 34,537 million (INR 1,946 crore) for Phase 3(II), funding the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge, the longest river bridge in India, connecting Assam and Meghalaya across the Brahmaputra. In addition, it also covers 750 km of roads, National Highway upgrades like NH-208 in Tripura (JPY 23,129 million or INR 1,492 crore), and the Gelephu-Dalu Corridor, integrating Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh to boost intra-regional links. The projects are designed to improve connectivity between Northeast India and the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, creating new avenues for trade, investment and socio-economic growth. To support this objective, Japan has invested more than $2 billion through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme as of 2021, with funding continuing to increase. These investments help bridge critical infrastructure gaps in a region of significant strategic importance. The initiative not only strengthens India's efforts to integrate the Northeast more closely with regional and global markets but also highlights Japan's role as a trusted partner in promoting sustainable infrastructure development and long-term economic progress.

The planned corridor consists of two routes connecting Assam and West Bengal to Gelephu and Samtse in Bhutan, respectively. Construction of both links is set to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with a combined estimated cost of &nbsp;Rs 4,033 crore.

Gelephu–Dalu corridor: How Japan-backed link could connect & transform trade between Bhutan, India and Bangladesh

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday (July 1) said that resolving the Taiwan issue is a “historic mission” for his country, adding that it remains an “unshakable commitment” of the Communist Party of China. He also mentioned Hong Kong and Macau in his speech saying that “long-term prosperity and stability” is essential for “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.” Speaking at an event in Beijing on 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Xi, who also serves as general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to the "one country, two systems" framework.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cepa-at-15-why-the-india-japan-trade-pact-fell-short-and-what-a-refresh-could-change-1782804365931">CEPA at 15: Why the India-Japan trade pact fell short—and what a refresh could change</a><h2>India's stance on Taiwan</h2>Incidentally, Jinping's remark comes hours before Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi lands in India. Takaichi is carrying with her the Taiwan conundrum of her country to New Delhi. India's stance on Taiwan is one that balances its ties with China as well as caters to the broader international picture. India does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, but the two nations have maintained representative offices in each other's capitals since 1995. Most recently, India's Ministry of External Affairs (ME) said that Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and reiterated that its position on the "Taiwan question" remains unchanged, focusing on a stable India-China relationship while supporting "core concerns" on both sides.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-japan-pm-sanae-takaichi-s-india-visit-is-strategically-significant-wion-decodes-1782544175393">Why Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit is strategically significant | WION Decodes</a><h2>China and Japan tensions</h2>The recent China and Japan tensions are rooted in Taiwan. On Nov 14, 2025, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of Beijing using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. This infuriated China with Beijing demanding an apology and taking a number of step that resulted in diplomatic fallout. With Takaichi now in New Delhi, it remains to be seen, how New Delhi navigates the Taiwan question, specially after Jinping's latest statement.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated to their highest level in decades. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has warned that countries in the region would be China's next targets if Beijing attacks Taiwan to seize it.&nbsp;

Xi Jinping reaffirmed that resolving the Taiwan issue is a historic mission for China, while backing the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. His remarks come amid rising China-Taiwan tensions, military drills, nuclear expansion concerns and a diplomatic row with Japan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday (July 1) said that resolving the Taiwan issue is a “historic mission” for his country, adding that it remains an “unshakable commitment” of the Communist Party of China. He also mentioned Hong Kong and Macau in his speech saying that “long-term prosperity and stability” is essential for “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.” Speaking at an event in Beijing on 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Xi, who also serves as general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to the "one country, two systems" framework. Also Read: CEPA at 15: Why the India-Japan trade pact fell short—and what a refresh could change India's stance on Taiwan Incidentally, Jinping's remark comes hours before Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi lands in India. Takaichi is carrying with her the Taiwan conundrum of her country to New Delhi. India's stance on Taiwan is one that balances its ties with China as well as caters to the broader international picture. India does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, but the two nations have maintained representative offices in each other's capitals since 1995. Most recently, India's Ministry of External Affairs (ME) said that Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and reiterated that its position on the "Taiwan question" remains unchanged, focusing on a stable India-China relationship while supporting "core concerns" on both sides. Also Read: Why Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit is strategically significant | WION Decodes China and Japan tensions The recent China and Japan tensions are rooted in Taiwan. On Nov 14, 2025, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of Beijing using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. This infuriated China with Beijing demanding an apology and taking a number of step that resulted in diplomatic fallout. With Takaichi now in New Delhi, it remains to be seen, how New Delhi navigates the Taiwan question, specially after Jinping's latest statement. Meanwhile, Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated to their highest level in decades. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has warned that countries in the region would be China's next targets if Beijing attacks Taiwan to seize it.

Xi Jinping reaffirmed that resolving the Taiwan issue is a historic mission for China, while backing the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. His remarks come amid rising China-Taiwan tensions, military drills, nuclear expansion concerns and a diplomatic row with Japan.

China's Xi Jinping calls Taiwan 'historic mission' hours before Japan PM Takaichi's India visit: Is it a warning?

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will arrive in India shortly. As all eyes are set on her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it must be remembered that India and Japan have a long history of cooperation. The deep relation between the two nations was formally elevated to a "Special Strategic and Global Partnership" in 2014 based on various sectors including defence, technology and energy. Landmark projects such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail, metro rail networks, the India-Japan Digital Partnership, and the LUPEX lunar mission reflect the growing depth of collaboration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-ties-to-go-beyond-the-handshake-1782882666775">India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake</a><h2>Key agreements between India and Japan and major projects</h2><ul><li>Japan in India is currently synonymous to Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail because the country is financing and providing technology for India's first bullet train between Mumbai and Ahmedabad that is a 508 km corridor. The technology being provided by Japan is Shinkansen technology.</li><li>Japan was the primary financial and technical partner, providing massive Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to fund nearly 80 per cent of Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) total cost. This is 1,506 km electrified rail network serves as the economic backbone for the&nbsp;Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).</li><li>Japan is the primary external funder for&nbsp;major Mass Rapid Transit Systems across India, including projects in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad.</li><li><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed</a>&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-japan-s-taiwan-stance-against-china-means-for-india-ahead-of-modi-takaichi-talks-1782834792118">What Japan's Taiwan stance means for India ahead of Modi-Takaichi talks?</a>&nbsp;<ul><li>The India-Japan Clean Energy Partnership ties is aiming to develop a hydrogen-ammonia trade corridor and large-scale renewable ammonia plants in Odisha. It also include the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) for carbon reduction.</li><li>Under the digital partnership between the two countries, companies such as NEC and Reliance Jio are collaborating on 5G and Open RAN infrastructure.</li><li>Japan and India are strengthening supply chains through joint initiatives. In this regard, Japanese firm Proterial (formerly Hitachi Metals) invested ₹2,250 crore ($270 million) to establish a state-of-the-art permanent magnet plant</li><li>Japan is investing in strategic infrastructure projects in Northeast India to improve connectivity with South and Southeast Asia. All the projects here are under a forum called Act East Forum Projects. It coordinates development in India’s North-East region, focusing on connectivity, hydropower, forest management, and water supply.</li><li>Joint efforts between the two nations also include establishing a semiconductor ecosystem - such as the OSAT facility in Sanand, Gujarat and the India-Japan Digital Partnership to cooperate on AI, IoT, and 5G technology.</li><li>In space exploration, a landmark collaboration is Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) Mission. This is a collaboration between ISRO and JAXA for the Chandrayaan 5 mission to explore the Moon's polar regions.</li><li>Rudraksh Convention Centre: The International Cooperation and Convention Centre in Varanasi, constructed with Japanese grant assistance.</li></ul>

India and Japan already share a deep strategic relation through bullet train, metro rail, semiconductors, clean energy, digital infrastructure, LUPEX Moon mission, critical minerals and Northeast connectivity projects, reinforcing cooperation across technology, infrastructure and security.

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will arrive in India shortly. As all eyes are set on her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it must be remembered that India and Japan have a long history of cooperation. The deep relation between the two nations was formally elevated to a "Special Strategic and Global Partnership" in 2014 based on various sectors including defence, technology and energy. Landmark projects such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail, metro rail networks, the India-Japan Digital Partnership, and the LUPEX lunar mission reflect the growing depth of collaboration. Also Read: India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake Key agreements between India and Japan and major projects Japan in India is currently synonymous to Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail because the country is financing and providing technology for India's first bullet train between Mumbai and Ahmedabad that is a 508 km corridor. The technology being provided by Japan is Shinkansen technology. Japan was the primary financial and technical partner, providing massive Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to fund nearly 80 per cent of Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) total cost. This is 1,506 km electrified rail network serves as the economic backbone for the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC). Japan is the primary external funder for major Mass Rapid Transit Systems across India, including projects in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed Also Read: What Japan's Taiwan stance means for India ahead of Modi-Takaichi talks? The India-Japan Clean Energy Partnership ties is aiming to develop a hydrogen-ammonia trade corridor and large-scale renewable ammonia plants in Odisha. It also include the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) for carbon reduction. Under the digital partnership between the two countries, companies such as NEC and Reliance Jio are collaborating on 5G and Open RAN infrastructure. Japan and India are strengthening supply chains through joint initiatives. In this regard, Japanese firm Proterial (formerly Hitachi Metals) invested ₹2,250 crore ($270 million) to establish a state-of-the-art permanent magnet plant Japan is investing in strategic infrastructure projects in Northeast India to improve connectivity with South and Southeast Asia. All the projects here are under a forum called Act East Forum Projects. It coordinates development in India’s North-East region, focusing on connectivity, hydropower, forest management, and water supply. Joint efforts between the two nations also include establishing a semiconductor ecosystem - such as the OSAT facility in Sanand, Gujarat and the India-Japan Digital Partnership to cooperate on AI, IoT, and 5G technology. In space exploration, a landmark collaboration is Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) Mission. This is a collaboration between ISRO and JAXA for the Chandrayaan 5 mission to explore the Moon's polar regions. Rudraksh Convention Centre: The International Cooperation and Convention Centre in Varanasi, constructed with Japanese grant assistance.

India and Japan already share a deep strategic relation through bullet train, metro rail, semiconductors, clean energy, digital infrastructure, LUPEX Moon mission, critical minerals and Northeast connectivity projects, reinforcing cooperation across technology, infrastructure and security.

From bullet train to moon mission: What are key India-Japan projects shaping strategic ties?

For decades, India was one of the world's largest arms importers. BrahMos is helping reverse that narrative. The missile is emerging as a flagship example of India's shift from "Make in India" to “Make for the World”. Here's why nations are lining up to buy BrahMos.

For decades, India was one of the world's largest arms importers. BrahMos is helping reverse that narrative. The missile is emerging as a flagship example of India's shift from "Make in India" to “Make for the World”. Here's why nations are lining up to buy BrahMos.

India's BrahMos vs USA's Tomahawk, Russia's Kalibr and China's YJ-18: Why nations are lining up for the Make-in-India missile

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's India visit brings with it a clear plan and agenda on the Free and Open Indo-Pacific doctrine. The digital corridor plan under that strategy is the sharper story for the India-Japan annual summit this week. Japan's updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy, unveiled by Takaichi in Hanoi in May, reframes the strategy away from pure maritime security towards economic resilience: ai, data flows, undersea cables and satellites. The country's communications ministry is set to launch eight communications infrastructure projects in Taiwan and India under a new digital corridor initiative. That is to strengthen cooperation on undersea cables, satellite communications, and digital infrastructure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cepa-at-15-why-the-india-japan-trade-pact-fell-short-and-what-a-refresh-could-change-1782804365931">CEPA at 15: Why the India-Japan trade pact fell short—and what a refresh could change</a>&nbsp;Japan's ministry of internal affairs is rolling these out across Taiwan, India, Singapore and Chile, backed by roughly 8 billion yen, or nearly $5 billion. In Taiwan, Japan is testing resilience of undersea cables repeatedly damaged near its coast, which reports suspect is being done by China. In India and Singapore, Japan is betting on tech to secure digital payment infrastructure. In Chile, remote-operation tests using Japan's technology at the world's largest copper mine are underway.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/takaichi-s-india-visit-decoding-india-japan-joint-vision-for-next-decade-and-its-eight-pillars-1782856460066/amp">Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade and its eight pillars</a>&nbsp;While they are small, technical-sounding pilots, each one is a brick in a China-resistant digital architecture stretching from the Taiwan strait to South America. The pattern across minerals, chips and cables is identical. Reduce dependency on one country, build parallel infrastructure with trusted partners. India, for Japan, isn't just a partner anymore, it's insurance.&nbsp;<h2>Indo-Pacific strategy to Mediterranean strategic agenda</h2>At the recently concluded G7 meeting in France, the Indo-Pacific strategy expanded in a broader manner to the European and Mediterranean strategic agenda. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's foreign policy now champions a Free and Open Indo-Pacific plan. That policy links the region's security with Italy's strategic "Global Mediterranean" vision.&nbsp;Rome is pursuing this objective through a series of key diplomatic, economic, and defense partnerships across Asia. So, Italy's Indo-Pacific pivot is now structural and not just symbolic.&nbsp;Meloni's special strategic partnerships with India and Japan - covering critical minerals, and the 20-billion-euro trade target - signal Rome hedging against China dependency. Takaichi's political alignment, and the Indo-Mediterranean framing show Italy positioning itself as Europe's bridge into Asian security architecture.For Japan, India's north east is the gateway for that strategy.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit highlights Japan's digital corridor initiative under the Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy, boosting cooperation on undersea cables, satellite communications and digital infrastructure while strengthening India-Japan strategic ties.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's India visit brings with it a clear plan and agenda on the Free and Open Indo-Pacific doctrine. The digital corridor plan under that strategy is the sharper story for the India-Japan annual summit this week. Japan's updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy, unveiled by Takaichi in Hanoi in May, reframes the strategy away from pure maritime security towards economic resilience: ai, data flows, undersea cables and satellites. The country's communications ministry is set to launch eight communications infrastructure projects in Taiwan and India under a new digital corridor initiative. That is to strengthen cooperation on undersea cables, satellite communications, and digital infrastructure. Also Read: CEPA at 15: Why the India-Japan trade pact fell short—and what a refresh could change Japan's ministry of internal affairs is rolling these out across Taiwan, India, Singapore and Chile, backed by roughly 8 billion yen, or nearly $5 billion. In Taiwan, Japan is testing resilience of undersea cables repeatedly damaged near its coast, which reports suspect is being done by China. In India and Singapore, Japan is betting on tech to secure digital payment infrastructure. In Chile, remote-operation tests using Japan's technology at the world's largest copper mine are underway. Also Read: Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade and its eight pillars While they are small, technical-sounding pilots, each one is a brick in a China-resistant digital architecture stretching from the Taiwan strait to South America. The pattern across minerals, chips and cables is identical. Reduce dependency on one country, build parallel infrastructure with trusted partners. India, for Japan, isn't just a partner anymore, it's insurance. Indo-Pacific strategy to Mediterranean strategic agenda At the recently concluded G7 meeting in France, the Indo-Pacific strategy expanded in a broader manner to the European and Mediterranean strategic agenda. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's foreign policy now champions a Free and Open Indo-Pacific plan. That policy links the region's security with Italy's strategic "Global Mediterranean" vision. Rome is pursuing this objective through a series of key diplomatic, economic, and defense partnerships across Asia. So, Italy's Indo-Pacific pivot is now structural and not just symbolic. Meloni's special strategic partnerships with India and Japan - covering critical minerals, and the 20-billion-euro trade target - signal Rome hedging against China dependency. Takaichi's political alignment, and the Indo-Mediterranean framing show Italy positioning itself as Europe's bridge into Asian security architecture. For Japan, India's north east is the gateway for that strategy.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit highlights Japan's digital corridor initiative under the Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy, boosting cooperation on undersea cables, satellite communications and digital infrastructure while strengthening India-Japan strategic ties.

Japan's digital corridor: Free and open Indo-Pacific's backbone

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, just before her visit to India on Wednesday, called the country an indispensable partner in advancing her updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision. That language matters, because "indispensable" is diplomatic code for "we need you, now."The real story is China. Beijing controls the lion's share of global rare earths, lithium, and cobalt processing, and has shown its willingness to weaponise that dominance. Japan has spent a decade trying to de-risk its supply chains. This is where India's Northeast becomes the gateway for Japan's move away from China.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-ties-to-go-beyond-the-handshake-1782882666775">India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake</a>India sits on 7.2 million tonnes of rare earth reserves, the world's third largest, and that's the pivot point for Takaichi.At the India-Japan annual summit this week, concrete deals on joint exploration and processing are expected, and not just intent.The plan also includes a supply pipeline for EV batteries and defence hardware. Semiconductors are the second pillar.Japan wants India as a manufacturing base, and not just a billion-plus consumer market. That's Japan's latest strategic shift - from selling to India, to building in India, for the world.<h2>New geo-economics at play</h2>Reports quoting diplomatic sources show that both sides are building an "Industrial Value Chain," connecting the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India.So that plan potentially turns a historically underdeveloped frontier into a critical minerals and manufacturing corridor.This is the new geo-economics.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semiconductors-to-biogas-what-s-really-on-the-table-at-the-modi-takaichi-summit-wion-decodes-1782721446269">Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes</a><h2>The numbers back the intent</h2>About 1,400 Japanese companies operate in India, with nearly half of them in manufacturing. Bilateral trade hit $27.5 billion in FY 2025-26, with Japanese investment of $3.2 billion between April and December 2025 alone.Expect Takaichi's visit to produce a joint statement on economic security, and a separate declaration on AI cooperation, alongside memorandum of understanding agreements (MOUs) on batteries, pharma and critical minerals.The India-Japan summit is less about symbolism and more about supply chains now, and whether intent finally converts into contracts.

Beijing controls the lion's share of global rare earths, lithium, and cobalt processing, and has shown its willingness to weaponise that dominance. This is where India's Northeast becomes the gateway for Japan's move away from China.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, just before her visit to India on Wednesday, called the country an indispensable partner in advancing her updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision. That language matters, because "indispensable" is diplomatic code for "we need you, now." The real story is China. Beijing controls the lion's share of global rare earths, lithium, and cobalt processing, and has shown its willingness to weaponise that dominance. Japan has spent a decade trying to de-risk its supply chains. This is where India's Northeast becomes the gateway for Japan's move away from China. Also read | India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake India sits on 7.2 million tonnes of rare earth reserves, the world's third largest, and that's the pivot point for Takaichi. At the India-Japan annual summit this week, concrete deals on joint exploration and processing are expected, and not just intent. The plan also includes a supply pipeline for EV batteries and defence hardware. Semiconductors are the second pillar. Japan wants India as a manufacturing base, and not just a billion-plus consumer market. That's Japan's latest strategic shift - from selling to India, to building in India, for the world. New geo-economics at play Reports quoting diplomatic sources show that both sides are building an "Industrial Value Chain," connecting the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India. So that plan potentially turns a historically underdeveloped frontier into a critical minerals and manufacturing corridor. This is the new geo-economics. Also read | Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes The numbers back the intent About 1,400 Japanese companies operate in India, with nearly half of them in manufacturing. Bilateral trade hit $27.5 billion in FY 2025-26, with Japanese investment of $3.2 billion between April and December 2025 alone. Expect Takaichi's visit to produce a joint statement on economic security, and a separate declaration on AI cooperation, alongside memorandum of understanding agreements (MOUs) on batteries, pharma and critical minerals. The India-Japan summit is less about symbolism and more about supply chains now, and whether intent finally converts into contracts.

Beijing controls the lion's share of global rare earths, lithium, and cobalt processing, and has shown its willingness to weaponise that dominance. This is where India's Northeast becomes the gateway for Japan's move away from China.

Northeast India: Japan's new geo-economic corridor

A handwritten manuscript of the revered Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, has been brought to Scotland and will soon be open to devotees to pay their respects. The manuscript, as per the Consulate General of India in Scotland, is 300 years old and once belonged to Maharaja Kharak Singh of Punjab.<h2>Where can devotees pay their respects to this ancient manuscript?</h2>Devotees can pay their respects to the 300-year-old copy of Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj at the Central Gurdwara in Glasgow.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-19-hour-race-against-time-ends-in-tragedy-as-4-year-old-ambala-boy-dies-after-getting-stuck-in-220-foot-borewell-1782878972676">19-hour race against time ends in tragedy as 4-year-old Ambala boy dies after getting stuck in 220-foot borewell</a><h2>How the ancient manuscript was discovered</h2>The three-century-old handwritten Guru Granth Sahib manuscript, as per the consulate, was discovered in the university archives in 2020. The sacred manuscript has undergone extensive restoration and preservation before devotees could do "darshan" (pay their respects).In a statement on X, the Consulate noted that its team was pleased to join Gurudwara representatives from Edinburgh and Glasgow in bringing the manuscript to Scotland. "A meaningful step in preserving and celebrating our shared heritage," added the statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Consulate team was pleased to join Gurudwara Representatives from Edinburgh and Glasgow, Mrs. Trishna Singh of Sikh Sanjog and University of Edinburgh <a href="https://x.com/uniofedinburgh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uniofedinburgh</a> officials for a coordination meeting to facilitate darshan of the 300-year-old manuscript of Sri Guru Granth… <a href="https://t.co/Qz16iCVcos">pic.twitter.com/Qz16iCVcos</a>&mdash; India In Scotland (@IndiaInScotland) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaInScotland/status/2071874965570277553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The manuscript, which is believed to date back to the 1700s, once belonged to the second ruler of the Sikh Empire, Maharaja Kharak Singh. According to researchers, the manuscript is believed to have been taken from Maharaja Kharak Singh's archives when the British captured the Dullewalla fort in Punjab in 1848.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-india-an-indispensable-tech-partner-says-only-india-can-rival-china-s-engineering-talent-pool-1782782979168">'Only country on earth': US says only India can rival China's engineering talent pool, calls New Delhi an 'indispensable' tech partner</a>Afterwards, the manuscript was handed over to the University of Edinburgh by Sir John Spencer Login, who also brought the Kohinoor diamond from the Sikh Empire to Queen Victoria during colonial rule.In 2020, Sikh researchers looking for artefacts through the university's website found entries mentioning the rare holy manuscript. Following its discovery, the manuscript underwent extensive preservation and restoration. Last year, in November, the Sikh community in Edinburgh held a special ceremony where Sikh devotees from across Scotland gathered to view the holy document.<h2>A 'mind-blowing experience'</h2>Trishna Singh, managing director of community organisation Sikh Sanjog, told PTI news agency that her first encounter with the 300-year-old copy of the holy scripture was a "mind-blowing experience."“I was so amazed, but there was part of me that was upset,” said Trisha. "I thought of my grandparents and my parents who'd lived in Glasgow, Scotland, since the late 1930s and never knew that there was this wonderful, amazing piece of our history sitting here in the university," she told PTI.

A 300-year-old handwritten manuscript of the Guru Granth Sahib, believed to have once belonged to Maharaja Kharak Singh, has been brought to Scotland and will be displayed for devotees at the Central Gurdwara Glasgow. 

A handwritten manuscript of the revered Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, has been brought to Scotland and will soon be open to devotees to pay their respects. The manuscript, as per the Consulate General of India in Scotland, is 300 years old and once belonged to Maharaja Kharak Singh of Punjab. Where can devotees pay their respects to this ancient manuscript? Devotees can pay their respects to the 300-year-old copy of Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj at the Central Gurdwara in Glasgow. Also read | 19-hour race against time ends in tragedy as 4-year-old Ambala boy dies after getting stuck in 220-foot borewell How the ancient manuscript was discovered The three-century-old handwritten Guru Granth Sahib manuscript, as per the consulate, was discovered in the university archives in 2020. The sacred manuscript has undergone extensive restoration and preservation before devotees could do "darshan" (pay their respects). In a statement on X, the Consulate noted that its team was pleased to join Gurudwara representatives from Edinburgh and Glasgow in bringing the manuscript to Scotland. "A meaningful step in preserving and celebrating our shared heritage," added the statement.

A 300-year-old handwritten manuscript of the Guru Granth Sahib, believed to have once belonged to Maharaja Kharak Singh, has been brought to Scotland and will be displayed for devotees at the Central Gurdwara Glasgow.&nbsp;

300-year-old Guru Granth Sahib manuscript, stolen by British from erstwhile Sikh Empire, arrives in Scotland. All details here

Lines for humanitarian aid in Venezuela's La Guaira grow longer daily as survivors of two devastating earthquakes have nowhere else to go. Last week's twin tremors, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, killed nearly 2,000 people and affected more than 15,000 others, leading authorities to declare the state a "disaster zone." With food and water becoming increasingly scarce in local markets, ordinary citizens and volunteers have stepped in to help.&nbsp;Donations from across the nation are arriving via private vehicles distributing food, water, soap, and toilet paper, alongside trucks from the NGO World Central Kitchen. For displaced residents like 24-year-old Nataly Cardona, who is currently living on the street, this assistance is vital. Survivors like Raoni Izaguirre spend hours waiting in lines under the sun for indispensable donations. Meanwhile, fortunate residents are actively supporting neighbours; Aysmar Lopez, for instance, cooks and delivers meals to several shelters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-earthquake-drone-footage-shows-extent-of-damage-caused-by-twin-quakes-1782715503030">Venezuela earthquake: Drone footage shows extent of damage caused by twin quakes</a>&nbsp;Medical professionals and veterinarians have also descended on the coastal city to provide care. The “Pink Brigade” medical specialists and students, including 30-year-old physician Kerlis Artigas, travelled from another state to treat injuries and donate medication. International aid teams are working in tandem alongside doctors from Italy, Mexico, and El Salvador. They operate out of mobile facilities at an improvised shelter on a golf course. They frequently treat high blood pressure, dehydration, fever, nervous breakdowns, and respiratory issues.&nbsp;As the calamity struck, veterinarians brought food, medicine, and IV fluids for dehydrated or injured pets. They also established a communication network to reunite rescued cats and dogs with their owners.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-reveal-scale-of-venezuela-earthquake-devastation-nearly-59-000-buildings-damaged-nasa-releases-data-1782813776609">Satellite images reveal scale of Venezuela earthquake devastation; nearly 59,000 buildings damaged - NASA releases data</a>&nbsp;Despite official assistance points being set up throughout the battered streets, survivors express a strong preference for volunteers and foreign aid over their own government. "The people helping us here are those who come from outside," resident Tibisay Mendez told news agency AFP. She added that deployed police and officials mostly stand around taking photos and making TikToks.&nbsp;Izaguirre echoed this sentiment, calling the government's inaction unjustifiable. He noted that instead of utilising state resources to help, authorities simply sit back and wait for foreign nations to provide the critical support the community desperately needs.

As aid lines grow in Venezuela's disaster zone of La Guaira, quake survivors rely on volunteers and NGOs for survival. Read the ground report.

Lines for humanitarian aid in Venezuela's La Guaira grow longer daily as survivors of two devastating earthquakes have nowhere else to go. Last week's twin tremors, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, killed nearly 2,000 people and affected more than 15,000 others, leading authorities to declare the state a "disaster zone." With food and water becoming increasingly scarce in local markets, ordinary citizens and volunteers have stepped in to help. Donations from across the nation are arriving via private vehicles distributing food, water, soap, and toilet paper, alongside trucks from the NGO World Central Kitchen. For displaced residents like 24-year-old Nataly Cardona, who is currently living on the street, this assistance is vital. Survivors like Raoni Izaguirre spend hours waiting in lines under the sun for indispensable donations. Meanwhile, fortunate residents are actively supporting neighbours; Aysmar Lopez, for instance, cooks and delivers meals to several shelters. Also read: Venezuela earthquake: Drone footage shows extent of damage caused by twin quakes Medical professionals and veterinarians have also descended on the coastal city to provide care. The “Pink Brigade” medical specialists and students, including 30-year-old physician Kerlis Artigas, travelled from another state to treat injuries and donate medication. International aid teams are working in tandem alongside doctors from Italy, Mexico, and El Salvador. They operate out of mobile facilities at an improvised shelter on a golf course. They frequently treat high blood pressure, dehydration, fever, nervous breakdowns, and respiratory issues. As the calamity struck, veterinarians brought food, medicine, and IV fluids for dehydrated or injured pets. They also established a communication network to reunite rescued cats and dogs with their owners. Also read: Satellite images reveal scale of Venezuela earthquake devastation; nearly 59,000 buildings damaged - NASA releases data Despite official assistance points being set up throughout the battered streets, survivors express a strong preference for volunteers and foreign aid over their own government. "The people helping us here are those who come from outside," resident Tibisay Mendez told news agency AFP. She added that deployed police and officials mostly stand around taking photos and making TikToks. Izaguirre echoed this sentiment, calling the government's inaction unjustifiable. He noted that instead of utilising state resources to help, authorities simply sit back and wait for foreign nations to provide the critical support the community desperately needs.

As aid lines grow in Venezuela's disaster zone of La Guaira, quake survivors rely on volunteers and NGOs for survival. Read the ground report.

Desperation and dignity: In quake-ravaged Venezuela, survivors lean on the kindness of strangers

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will be in India on Wednesday for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. This marks Takaichi's first visit as prime minister, and arguably her most consequential, with her bet on India travelling through to the north east.In an op-ed for the Times of India, Takaichi invoked Swami Vivekananda and former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's old formula - "a strong India is good for Japan, and a strong Japan is good for India" - to frame what's really an economic-security pact wearing cultural clothing.She also tied Japan's updated free and open Indo-Pacific vision directly to India's Mahasagar doctrine, and the Northeast is where that alignment gets concrete. The Japan-funded Dhubri-Phulbari bridge, Matarbari port in Bangladesh, and an "industrial value chain" stretching from Assam through Bangladesh to ASEAN.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semiconductors-to-biogas-what-s-really-on-the-table-at-the-modi-takaichi-summit-wion-decodes-1782721446269">Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes</a>Tokyo isn't just building infrastructure - it's building an alternate corridor that bypasses Chinese chokepoints entirely.The numbers explain the urgency.Japan is India's fifth-largest investor, with cumulative FDI at $48 billion, and a 10-trillion-yen private investment target set for the next decade.Around 1,500 Japanese firms operate in India, many relocating out of a China-facing regulatory and geopolitical friction, reinforced this week by joint Chinese-Russian bomber patrols over the Sea of Japan that forced Tokyo and Seoul to scramble jets.Expect movement on semiconductors, critical minerals, AI, and defence tech.That will build on last year's joint declaration on security cooperation and drills like Malabar and Dharma Guardian.The signal is clear: with Beijing squeezing on one side and Washington's trade unpredictability on the other, Japan is betting big on India. And the Northeast, quietly, is becoming the physical spine of that bet.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed</a><h2>Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy</h2>A coalition of nations, most notably Japan, the United States, India, and Australia, support the strategic geopolitical and economic framework known as the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). In order to maintain the Indo-Pacific's accessibility and prosperity, it supports free commerce, freedom of navigation, regional stability, and the rule of law.The three primary goals of the FOIP framework are to guarantee regional peace and prosperity:Rule of Law and Freedom of Navigation are the main goals. That is to ensure international maritime rules allow all countries to sail and trade without coercion or territorial claims impeding peaceful movement.Promoting connectivity, free trade agreements, and investments in high-quality infrastructure are all ways to achieve economic prosperity.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/takaichi-s-india-visit-decoding-india-japan-joint-vision-for-next-decade-and-its-eight-pillars-1782856460066">Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade</a>This frequently acts as a straightforward substitute framework for other regional megaprojects.Peace and stability include addressing marine threats, strengthening law enforcement capabilities, and enhancing responses to natural catastrophes and humanitarian crises.So, Takaichi's India visit brings with it a broader economic and strategic partnership plan.

The signal is clear: with Beijing squeezing on one side and Washington's trade unpredictability on the other, Japan is betting big on India. And the Northeast, quietly, is becoming the physical spine of that bet.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will be in India on Wednesday for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. This marks Takaichi's first visit as prime minister, and arguably her most consequential, with her bet on India travelling through to the north east. In an op-ed for the Times of India, Takaichi invoked Swami Vivekananda and former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's old formula - "a strong India is good for Japan, and a strong Japan is good for India" - to frame what's really an economic-security pact wearing cultural clothing. She also tied Japan's updated free and open Indo-Pacific vision directly to India's Mahasagar doctrine, and the Northeast is where that alignment gets concrete. The Japan-funded Dhubri-Phulbari bridge, Matarbari port in Bangladesh, and an "industrial value chain" stretching from Assam through Bangladesh to ASEAN. Also read | Semiconductors to biogas: What’s really on the table at the Modi-Takaichi summit? | WION Decodes Tokyo isn't just building infrastructure - it's building an alternate corridor that bypasses Chinese chokepoints entirely. The numbers explain the urgency. Japan is India's fifth-largest investor, with cumulative FDI at $48 billion, and a 10-trillion-yen private investment target set for the next decade. Around 1,500 Japanese firms operate in India, many relocating out of a China-facing regulatory and geopolitical friction, reinforced this week by joint Chinese-Russian bomber patrols over the Sea of Japan that forced Tokyo and Seoul to scramble jets. Expect movement on semiconductors, critical minerals, AI, and defence tech. That will build on last year's joint declaration on security cooperation and drills like Malabar and Dharma Guardian. The signal is clear: with Beijing squeezing on one side and Washington's trade unpredictability on the other, Japan is betting big on India. And the Northeast, quietly, is becoming the physical spine of that bet. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-ties-why-japan-is-betting-big-on-india-from-china-1-to-indo-pacific-strategy-1782888145108/embed Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy A coalition of nations, most notably Japan, the United States, India, and Australia, support the strategic geopolitical and economic framework known as the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). In order to maintain the Indo-Pacific's accessibility and prosperity, it supports free commerce, freedom of navigation, regional stability, and the rule of law. The three primary goals of the FOIP framework are to guarantee regional peace and prosperity: Rule of Law and Freedom of Navigation are the main goals. That is to ensure international maritime rules allow all countries to sail and trade without coercion or territorial claims impeding peaceful movement. Promoting connectivity, free trade agreements, and investments in high-quality infrastructure are all ways to achieve economic prosperity. Also read | Takaichi's India visit: Decoding India-Japan Joint Vision for Next Decade This frequently acts as a straightforward substitute framework for other regional megaprojects. Peace and stability include addressing marine threats, strengthening law enforcement capabilities, and enhancing responses to natural catastrophes and humanitarian crises. So, Takaichi's India visit brings with it a broader economic and strategic partnership plan.

The signal is clear: with Beijing squeezing on one side and Washington's trade unpredictability on the other, Japan is betting big on India. And the Northeast, quietly, is becoming the physical spine of that bet.

India-Japan ties to go beyond the handshake

United States President Donald Trump has congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping after the US Supreme Court's recent birthright citizenship decision. The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to strike down a presidential executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented parents born on US soil. The landmark decision upheld the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause, affirming that virtually all babies born in the United States maintain their constitutional right to American citizenship. However, all eyes turned to Trump when he unexpectedly congratulated Xi Jinping. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I would like to congratulate President Xi, and the Great Country of China, on their massive Birthright Citizenship WIN!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-minted-over-1-billion-from-crypto-dealings-in-first-year-back-in-office-1782868287013">Trump minted over $1 billion from crypto dealings in first year back in office</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260701/image-1782872846392.png"></figure><h2>Why Trump congratulated Jinping?</h2>Trump tagged Jinping sarcastically as he was likely referring to the landmark 1898 ruling United States v Wong Kim Ark, which became the legal foundation of &nbsp;American citizenship under the 14th Amendment. In this case, Wong Kim Ark, who was born in San Francisco in 1873 to Chinese immigrant parents who were not US citizens, argued that he was an US citizen despite his parents not being one. He alleged that US government did wrong to him in denying him entry to the country after a trip abroad. The collector of customs denied him entry, arguing he was not a citizen under the restrictive Chinese Exclusion Act and that his citizenship followed that of his parents. While his case was being argued, Wong was confined to a steamship off the coast of San Francisco for months. In 1898, the Supreme Court ruled that Wong Kim Ark was a US citizen by birth under the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-said-let-s-call-pm-modi-us-envoy-s-explains-indo-pacific-command-s-name-change-with-anecdote-1782801910705">'Trump said let's call PM Modi...': US Envoy's explains Indo-Pacific Command's name change with anecdote</a> Chief Justice John Roberts referenced the same case on June 30, stating that there was no justification for deviating from the established constitutional understanding. Trump by congratulating Jinping seemed to imply that people born in the US to Chinese parents have long benefited from the decision by applauding Xi.<h2>How Trump reacted?</h2>Trump called the decision "too bad for our Country". He vowed to "make it up in Congress through Legislation, with the support of the President." Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, “The Supreme Court upheld Birthright Citizenship, which is too bad for our Country, but we can easily make it up in Congress through Legislation, with the support of the President, that has now been determined during this process.” He said that the Congress will start to "work on ending expensive and unfair to our Country, Birthright Citizenship," immediately and promised his complete support.

Trump sparked controversy after sarcastically congratulating Xi Jinping following the US Supreme Court's birthright citizenship ruling. His remarks referenced the landmark Wong Kim Ark case and came after the court rejected his effort to restrict automatic citizenship 

United States President Donald Trump has congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping after the US Supreme Court's recent birthright citizenship decision. The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to strike down a presidential executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented parents born on US soil. The landmark decision upheld the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause, affirming that virtually all babies born in the United States maintain their constitutional right to American citizenship. However, all eyes turned to Trump when he unexpectedly congratulated Xi Jinping. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I would like to congratulate President Xi, and the Great Country of China, on their massive Birthright Citizenship WIN!” Also Read: Trump minted over $1 billion from crypto dealings in first year back in office Why Trump congratulated Jinping? Trump tagged Jinping sarcastically as he was likely referring to the landmark 1898 ruling United States v Wong Kim Ark, which became the legal foundation of American citizenship under the 14th Amendment. In this case, Wong Kim Ark, who was born in San Francisco in 1873 to Chinese immigrant parents who were not US citizens, argued that he was an US citizen despite his parents not being one. He alleged that US government did wrong to him in denying him entry to the country after a trip abroad. The collector of customs denied him entry, arguing he was not a citizen under the restrictive Chinese Exclusion Act and that his citizenship followed that of his parents. While his case was being argued, Wong was confined to a steamship off the coast of San Francisco for months. In 1898, the Supreme Court ruled that Wong Kim Ark was a US citizen by birth under the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. Also Read: 'Trump said let's call PM Modi...': US Envoy's explains Indo-Pacific Command's name change with anecdote Chief Justice John Roberts referenced the same case on June 30, stating that there was no justification for deviating from the established constitutional understanding. Trump by congratulating Jinping seemed to imply that people born in the US to Chinese parents have long benefited from the decision by applauding Xi. How Trump reacted? Trump called the decision "too bad for our Country". He vowed to "make it up in Congress through Legislation, with the support of the President." Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, “The Supreme Court upheld Birthright Citizenship, which is too bad for our Country, but we can easily make it up in Congress through Legislation, with the support of the President, that has now been determined during this process.” He said that the Congress will start to "work on ending expensive and unfair to our Country, Birthright Citizenship," immediately and promised his complete support.

Trump sparked controversy after sarcastically congratulating Xi Jinping following the US Supreme Court's birthright citizenship ruling. His remarks referenced the landmark Wong Kim Ark case and came after the court rejected his effort to restrict automatic citizenship&nbsp;

Why Trump congratulated China's Xi Jinping after birthright citizenship ruling by SCOTUS? WION Decodes

The US government on Tuesday (July 01) lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, weeks after directing the company to limit access over national security concerns.&nbsp;Anthropic said that it will soon begin restoring global access to its flagship AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, after the US government removed restrictions on where they could be released.&nbsp;Anthropic said access to the models would begin to return for users from Wednesday.&nbsp;The US government had ordered Anthropic to suspend access to the two advanced AI models on June 12 over concerns that advanced AI systems could potentially be misused by foreign military or intelligence agencies.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We’ve received notice that the Department of Commerce has lifted export controls on Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5. We&#39;ll begin restoring access tomorrow, and will share an update soon. We’re grateful to our users for their patience, and to everyone who worked with us on…&mdash; Anthropic (@AnthropicAI) <a href="https://x.com/AnthropicAI/status/2072106151890809341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

OpenAI has also complied with requests from Washington by limiting the release of its latest model, GPT 5.6, to a select group of approved partners.&nbsp;Commenting on the move, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said on X, "This isn't quite the process that we think is optimal," while explaining the launch of GPT 5.6.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-minted-over-1-billion-from-crypto-dealings-in-first-year-back-in-office-1782868287013">Trump minted over $1 billion from crypto dealings in first year back in office</a><h2>CIA director compares advanced AI to nuclear weapons</h2>Earlier in the day, CIA Director John Ratcliffe compared the capabilities of the most advanced AI models to nuclear weapons, defending the Trump administration's tougher approach to controlling access to frontier AI technology.&nbsp;"In conversations with many of the president's other national security and economic security advisors, we're talking about the impact of these frontier AI models," Ratcliffe said during a speech at the AWS Summit in Washington.&nbsp;"It would be... not misplaced to refer to their capabilities as akin to digital nuclear weapons," Ratcliffe said.&nbsp;Earlier, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a voluntary federal review of national security risks in advanced AI models before their public release.&nbsp;White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles also thanked technology companies for cooperating with the administration's AI policies.&nbsp;"My gratitude to companies across industries who continue to work closely with the White House to implement the President’s" executive order on AI and cybersecurity, Wiles said. "This includes excellent work around advanced model access, guardrail testing, and security."

The US government suspended access to the two AI models on June 12 after identifying safeguard vulnerabilities and raising concerns that they could be misused by foreign military or intelligence agencies.


The US government on Tuesday (July 01) lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, weeks after directing the company to limit access over national security concerns. Anthropic said that it will soon begin restoring global access to its flagship AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, after the US government removed restrictions on where they could be released. Anthropic said access to the models would begin to return for users from Wednesday. The US government had ordered Anthropic to suspend access to the two advanced AI models on June 12 over concerns that advanced AI systems could potentially be misused by foreign military or intelligence agencies.

The US government suspended access to the two AI models on June 12 after identifying safeguard vulnerabilities and raising concerns that they could be misused by foreign military or intelligence agencies.

US lifts export curbs on Anthropic's most powerful AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5

NASA has accelerated its timeline for setting up a permanent lunar human base. The US space agency on Tuesday (Jun 30) awarded nearly $600 million in fresh contracts to three commercial space companies. This will ensure that four automated logistics missions will head to the Moon’s south pole by late 2028, bridging a critical infrastructure gap as the agency eyes the start of actual Moon base construction by 2029.The cash injection lands at a volatile time for NASA's ambitious programme. Just last month, Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin suffered a high-profile setback when its New Glenn rocket exploded during a static-fire pad test, wrecking launchpad infrastructure and tossing a wrench into NASA's immediate robotic schedules.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-reveal-scale-of-venezuela-earthquake-devastation-nearly-59-000-buildings-damaged-nasa-releases-data-1782813776609">Satellite images reveal scale of Venezuela earthquake devastation; nearly 59,000 buildings damaged - NASA releases data</a><h2>Why does NASA want a base on the Moon?</h2>For years, NASA focused on Gateway, a planned space station orbiting the Moon.That changed earlier this year. In March, the agency shifted its attention towards building infrastructure directly on the lunar surface, pledging roughly $20 billion over the next seven years for the effort.The preferred location is the Moon's south pole, a region that has become increasingly important because scientists believe large quantities of water ice are trapped in permanently shadowed craters there.This water could one day provide drinking supplies, oxygen and even rocket fuel, making it a critical resource for long-term lunar exploration.<h2>Who just won NASA's new contracts?</h2>Rather than gambling on entirely unproven spacecraft, NASA is banking on upgrades to hardware that has already been built or flown. The strategy is designed to drive down research costs and force a much faster launch cadence.The $600 million funding has been split between three companies:- Astrobotic (Pittsburgh): Secured the lion's share at $297.9 million to fund two separate cargo deliveries using scaled variants of its Peregrine framework.- Intuitive Machines (Houston): Granted $148.3 million for a single delivery mission.- Firefly Aerospace (Austin): Awarded $144.2 million to execute one surface landing.These landers will transport scientific arrays, data-gathering sensors, and navigation experiments to map ice deposits and analyse soil erosion before heavy human habitats arrive.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-tower-of-babel-and-why-did-pope-leo-warn-about-it-while-talking-about-ai-wion-decodes-1779790151646">Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI?</a><h2>Mars rover on the Moon?</h2>The most unexpected development from the briefing was NASA's plan to repurpose a massive piece of Martian hardware for the lunar surface. The agency is preparing to strip down and rebuild PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration), a heavy testbed vehicle housed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory that was originally engineered to mirror the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers currently on Mars."We are thinking very hard right now about sending Promise to the moon," said NASA administrator, Jared "Rook" Isaacman.Promise's internal machinery offers a massive tactical advantage for lunar operations. The Mars rover runs on a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG). Unlike solar-powered rovers that freeze and die during the two-week-long lunar night, PROMISE's nuclear core will keep it fully operational in pitch-black, permanently shadowed craters where scientists suspect massive deposits of water ice are trapped.<h2>Overcoming the Blue Origin disaster</h2>Carlos García-Galán, the Moon Base program manager, acknowledged that while Blue Origin's May explosion has created a logistical headache. "We're working with Blue Origin very closely to understand their timelines to recovery and also looking at other options," he said.

NASA has awarded nearly $600 million in new lunar contracts as it pushes forward with plans to establish a permanent base near the Moon's south pole. The agency says the missions will deliver cargo, scientific instruments and technology needed to identify future construction sites.

NASA has accelerated its timeline for setting up a permanent lunar human base. The US space agency on Tuesday (Jun 30) awarded nearly $600 million in fresh contracts to three commercial space companies. This will ensure that four automated logistics missions will head to the Moon’s south pole by late 2028, bridging a critical infrastructure gap as the agency eyes the start of actual Moon base construction by 2029. The cash injection lands at a volatile time for NASA's ambitious programme. Just last month, Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin suffered a high-profile setback when its New Glenn rocket exploded during a static-fire pad test, wrecking launchpad infrastructure and tossing a wrench into NASA's immediate robotic schedules. Also read | Satellite images reveal scale of Venezuela earthquake devastation; nearly 59,000 buildings damaged - NASA releases data Why does NASA want a base on the Moon? For years, NASA focused on Gateway, a planned space station orbiting the Moon. That changed earlier this year. In March, the agency shifted its attention towards building infrastructure directly on the lunar surface, pledging roughly $20 billion over the next seven years for the effort. The preferred location is the Moon's south pole, a region that has become increasingly important because scientists believe large quantities of water ice are trapped in permanently shadowed craters there. This water could one day provide drinking supplies, oxygen and even rocket fuel, making it a critical resource for long-term lunar exploration. Who just won NASA's new contracts? Rather than gambling on entirely unproven spacecraft, NASA is banking on upgrades to hardware that has already been built or flown. The strategy is designed to drive down research costs and force a much faster launch cadence. The $600 million funding has been split between three companies: - Astrobotic (Pittsburgh): Secured the lion's share at $297.9 million to fund two separate cargo deliveries using scaled variants of its Peregrine framework. - Intuitive Machines (Houston): Granted $148.3 million for a single delivery mission. - Firefly Aerospace (Austin): Awarded $144.2 million to execute one surface landing. These landers will transport scientific arrays, data-gathering sensors, and navigation experiments to map ice deposits and analyse soil erosion before heavy human habitats arrive. Also read | Pope Leo warns humanity risks repeating ancient mistake: What is the Tower of Babel and what does it have to do with AI? Mars rover on the Moon? The most unexpected development from the briefing was NASA's plan to repurpose a massive piece of Martian hardware for the lunar surface. The agency is preparing to strip down and rebuild PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration), a heavy testbed vehicle housed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory that was originally engineered to mirror the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers currently on Mars. "We are thinking very hard right now about sending Promise to the moon," said NASA administrator, Jared "Rook" Isaacman. Promise's internal machinery offers a massive tactical advantage for lunar operations. The Mars rover runs on a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG). Unlike solar-powered rovers that freeze and die during the two-week-long lunar night, PROMISE's nuclear core will keep it fully operational in pitch-black, permanently shadowed craters where scientists suspect massive deposits of water ice are trapped. Overcoming the Blue Origin disaster Carlos García-Galán, the Moon Base program manager, acknowledged that while Blue Origin's May explosion has created a logistical headache. "We're working with Blue Origin very closely to understand their timelines to recovery and also looking at other options," he said.

NASA has awarded nearly $600 million in new lunar contracts as it pushes forward with plans to establish a permanent base near the Moon's south pole. The agency says the missions will deliver cargo, scientific instruments and technology needed to identify future construction sites.

Humans to live on the Moon by 2029? NASA awards $600mn in contracts, unveils next phase of lunar base plans

US President Donald Trump earned more than $1 billion from his cryptocurrency ventures last year, significantly increasing his annual income during the first year of his return to the White House, according to financial disclosure documents released on Tuesday by the US Office of Government Ethics.&nbsp;The mandatory filings are required under a 1978 law that obliges the US president and vice president to disclose their income, assets and financial interests.&nbsp;According to the 927-page filing, Trump reported $635 million in royalties from a company that issues the $TRUMP crypto token, which he launched three days before taking office for his second term ahead of his inauguration in January 2025.&nbsp;In addition, Trump reported over $500 million in income from token sales by World Liberty Financial, the cryptocurrency firm supported by him and his family.<h2>Crypto business drives Trump's earnings</h2>Since returning to office, Trump and his family have expanded their presence in the cryptocurrency sector through digital assets and related businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the beginning of 2025, Trump said he wanted the United States to become the “crypto capital of the world”.&nbsp;Many of his crypto ventures were still in their early stages when he took office, but have since generated more revenue than much of his long-established property portfolio. The growth has been supported by billionaire investors and Trump's decision to roll back the federal crackdown on the cryptocurrency industry.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-launches-airstrikes-inside-pakistan-targets-isis-centres-taliban-1782865000403">Afghanistan launches airstrikes inside Pakistan, targets ISIS centres: Taliban</a>&nbsp;According to Forbes, Trump's personal fortune nearly tripled from $2.3 billion in 2024 to $6.5 billion in 2026, largely due to his cryptocurrency businesses.&nbsp;In addition to income from WLF and its cryptocurrency operations, Trump also earned several million dollars through investments in publicly listed cryptocurrency companies, including the Coinbase exchange platform.&nbsp;Trump's assets are held in a trust managed by his son, Donald Trump Jr. However, the trust's rules allow it to be dissolved at any time, meaning Trump could regain direct control after the end of his second term.<h2>White House rejects ethical concerns</h2>White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly dismissed concerns over possible conflicts of interest and said Trump had proudly made the United States "the crypto capital of the world".&nbsp;"Neither the President nor his family has ever engaged or will ever engage in conflicts of interest," she said in a statement.&nbsp;"All actions by President Trump and his administration are taken in the best interest of the American people, and any so-called 'reporters' pushing otherwise are recycling the same, tired, false narrative that Democrats and the legacy media have been pushing for a decade," She added.

Trump's cryptocurrency ventures have now surpassed the revenue generated by his property business, which he built over decades. According to Forbes, his personal fortune nearly tripled from $2.3 billion in 2024 to $6.5 billion in 2026, largely driven by his crypto businesses.

US President Donald Trump earned more than $1 billion from his cryptocurrency ventures last year, significantly increasing his annual income during the first year of his return to the White House, according to financial disclosure documents released on Tuesday by the US Office of Government Ethics. The mandatory filings are required under a 1978 law that obliges the US president and vice president to disclose their income, assets and financial interests. According to the 927-page filing, Trump reported $635 million in royalties from a company that issues the $TRUMP crypto token, which he launched three days before taking office for his second term ahead of his inauguration in January 2025. In addition, Trump reported over $500 million in income from token sales by World Liberty Financial, the cryptocurrency firm supported by him and his family. Crypto business drives Trump's earnings Since returning to office, Trump and his family have expanded their presence in the cryptocurrency sector through digital assets and related businesses. At the beginning of 2025, Trump said he wanted the United States to become the “crypto capital of the world”. Many of his crypto ventures were still in their early stages when he took office, but have since generated more revenue than much of his long-established property portfolio. The growth has been supported by billionaire investors and Trump's decision to roll back the federal crackdown on the cryptocurrency industry. Also Read: Afghanistan launches airstrikes inside Pakistan, targets ISIS centres: Taliban According to Forbes, Trump's personal fortune nearly tripled from $2.3 billion in 2024 to $6.5 billion in 2026, largely due to his cryptocurrency businesses. In addition to income from WLF and its cryptocurrency operations, Trump also earned several million dollars through investments in publicly listed cryptocurrency companies, including the Coinbase exchange platform. Trump's assets are held in a trust managed by his son, Donald Trump Jr. However, the trust's rules allow it to be dissolved at any time, meaning Trump could regain direct control after the end of his second term. White House rejects ethical concerns White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly dismissed concerns over possible conflicts of interest and said Trump had proudly made the United States "the crypto capital of the world". "Neither the President nor his family has ever engaged or will ever engage in conflicts of interest," she said in a statement. "All actions by President Trump and his administration are taken in the best interest of the American people, and any so-called 'reporters' pushing otherwise are recycling the same, tired, false narrative that Democrats and the legacy media have been pushing for a decade," She added.

Trump's cryptocurrency ventures have now surpassed the revenue generated by his property business, which he built over decades. According to Forbes, his personal fortune nearly tripled from $2.3 billion in 2024 to $6.5 billion in 2026, largely driven by his crypto businesses.

Trump minted over $1 billion from crypto dealings in first year back in office

US Vice President JD Vance believes the next few weeks could shape the future of relations between Washington and Tehran, but he is not ready to declare victory just yet. Speaking on The Michael Knowles Show on Tuesday (Jun 30), Vance described the current moment as a potentially significant turning point in the long-running standoff between the two countries.<h2>'Important historical moment'</h2>During the interview, Vance outlined the Donald Trump administration's core objectives for West Asia and cautioned that much depends on how Iran responds to the economic and diplomatic pressure being applied by the US."Could this be a very important historical moment? The answer is obviously yes," Vance said. "But how exactly this plays out is very much contingent on the way that the Iranians respond to the leverage the president has put on them."While officials have spoken optimistically about the possibility of progress, Vance made it clear that scepticism remains."If they respond well, I think we're gonna look back at this and say we turned over a new leaf," he said. "A lot of people are sceptical, including me, that it will ultimately happen.""And if the Iranians perform or behave poorly, then I think that we still have a lot of leverage points to ensure that this ends up in a place that is good for America's objective," he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-deal-inside-the-14-point-mou-that-ended-over-108-days-of-war-wion-decodes-donald-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-benjamin-netanyahu-lebanon-1781513800001">US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes</a><h2>Beyond a nuclear deal</h2>Vance suggested that Washington's ambitions extend well beyond a traditional nuclear agreement. According to him, the Trump administration is seeking what it describes as durable and verifiable commitments from Tehran, backed by inspections and oversight mechanisms."We want durable commitments that are verifiable and backed up by inspections that Iran will denuclearise their entire country," Vance said.The vice president said Washington is also examining how any future arrangement would fit into a wider regional framework involving Gulf Arab states, Israel and Lebanon. "We're gonna play that situation out," he said. The goal, he suggested, is to create a more stable security architecture across the Middle East rather than simply negotiate a standalone agreement with Tehran."We want to see what kind of an arrangement actually exists in the Middle East between not just Iran and the United States, but the GCC, Israel, Lebanon," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-increase-tensions-iran-issues-fresh-warning-over-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-routes-1782694812472">'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes</a><h2>'The end of the beginning'</h2>Even as diplomatic activity intensifies, Vance urged observers not to read too much into every development. Quoting Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he described the current phase as "the end of the beginning" rather than the beginning of the end."There is a lot more game to play, and there are a lot more cards that we're going to see," Vance said.The vice president also expressed confidence that the administration still has significant leverage if negotiations stall or collapse."If the Iranians perform or behave poorly, then I think that we still have a lot of leverage points to ensure that this ends up in a place that is good for America's objective," he said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US Vice President JD Vance has said the coming weeks could prove to be a defining moment in US-Iran relations, but cautioned that the outcome depends heavily on how Tehran responds to American pressure.

US Vice President JD Vance believes the next few weeks could shape the future of relations between Washington and Tehran, but he is not ready to declare victory just yet. Speaking on The Michael Knowles Show on Tuesday (Jun 30), Vance described the current moment as a potentially significant turning point in the long-running standoff between the two countries. 'Important historical moment' During the interview, Vance outlined the Donald Trump administration's core objectives for West Asia and cautioned that much depends on how Iran responds to the economic and diplomatic pressure being applied by the US. "Could this be a very important historical moment? The answer is obviously yes," Vance said. "But how exactly this plays out is very much contingent on the way that the Iranians respond to the leverage the president has put on them." While officials have spoken optimistically about the possibility of progress, Vance made it clear that scepticism remains. "If they respond well, I think we're gonna look back at this and say we turned over a new leaf," he said. "A lot of people are sceptical, including me, that it will ultimately happen." "And if the Iranians perform or behave poorly, then I think that we still have a lot of leverage points to ensure that this ends up in a place that is good for America's objective," he added. Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes Beyond a nuclear deal Vance suggested that Washington's ambitions extend well beyond a traditional nuclear agreement. According to him, the Trump administration is seeking what it describes as durable and verifiable commitments from Tehran, backed by inspections and oversight mechanisms. "We want durable commitments that are verifiable and backed up by inspections that Iran will denuclearise their entire country," Vance said. The vice president said Washington is also examining how any future arrangement would fit into a wider regional framework involving Gulf Arab states, Israel and Lebanon. "We're gonna play that situation out," he said. The goal, he suggested, is to create a more stable security architecture across the Middle East rather than simply negotiate a standalone agreement with Tehran. "We want to see what kind of an arrangement actually exists in the Middle East between not just Iran and the United States, but the GCC, Israel, Lebanon," he said. Also read | 'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes 'The end of the beginning' Even as diplomatic activity intensifies, Vance urged observers not to read too much into every development. Quoting Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he described the current phase as "the end of the beginning" rather than the beginning of the end. "There is a lot more game to play, and there are a lot more cards that we're going to see," Vance said. The vice president also expressed confidence that the administration still has significant leverage if negotiations stall or collapse. "If the Iranians perform or behave poorly, then I think that we still have a lot of leverage points to ensure that this ends up in a place that is good for America's objective," he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US Vice President JD Vance has said the coming weeks could prove to be a defining moment in US-Iran relations, but cautioned that the outcome depends heavily on how Tehran responds to American pressure.

JD Vance says coming weeks could be decisive for US-Iran ties, warns 'a lot more game to play'

The Afghan Air Force carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan, targeting what it described as ISIS centres used to plan and coordinate terrorist attacks against civilians in Afghanistan. The strikes reportedly hit locations in Pakistan's Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, the Taliban's Defence Ministry said, according to Tolo News.&nbsp;The Taliban's Defence Ministry said the operation was carried out with precision, killing several ISIS fighters and causing significant material damage without any civilian casualties.&nbsp;Kabul also vowed to strike any location used to undermine Afghanistan's security.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Ministry of Defense of the Islamic Emirate has confirmed that Afghanistan&#39;s air force carried out airstrikes on ISIS centers in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the ministry, the targeted sites were being used to plan sabotage operations and attacks against… <a href="https://t.co/obXtCilAuz">pic.twitter.com/obXtCilAuz</a>&mdash; TOLOnews English (@TOLONewsEnglish) <a href="https://x.com/TOLONewsEnglish/status/2072045714742636678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Airstrikes follow deadly Pakistani attacks</h2>The operation came two days after Pakistan launched a series of airstrikes along its border with Afghanistan on Sunday. According to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), at least 28 civilians were killed, and 49 others were injured in the Pakistani strikes.&nbsp;Afghanistan said Pakistan's latest strikes hit civilian homes, putting the death toll at 36, with more than 160 people injured.&nbsp;The Taliban described Pakistan's action as a "cowardly act" and an "atrocity". Kabul has repeatedly accused Islamabad of carrying out unprovoked attacks that kill civilians, while Pakistan maintains it targets only militants.&nbsp;The latest exchange comes months after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire in October following weeks of deadly clashes.&nbsp;The renewed tensions also follow earlier Pakistani airstrikes on March 16 that hit the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Centre, also known as the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital, a 2,000-bed facility in eastern Kabul. Afghan health and interior ministry officials said at least 408 people were killed and 265 injured, most of them patients undergoing treatment, while UNAMA later documented at least 269 deaths.&nbsp;Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of harbouring militants responsible for attacks inside its territory, an allegation the Taliban government has repeatedly denied.&nbsp;(This is a developing story; further details are awaited)

The drone strikes came about two days after Pakistan carried out a series of deadly airstrikes along its border with Afghanistan on Sunday.

The Afghan Air Force carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan, targeting what it described as ISIS centres used to plan and coordinate terrorist attacks against civilians in Afghanistan. The strikes reportedly hit locations in Pakistan's Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, the Taliban's Defence Ministry said, according to Tolo News. The Taliban's Defence Ministry said the operation was carried out with precision, killing several ISIS fighters and causing significant material damage without any civilian casualties. Kabul also vowed to strike any location used to undermine Afghanistan's security.

The drone strikes came about two days after Pakistan carried out a series of deadly airstrikes along its border with Afghanistan on Sunday.

Afghanistan launches airstrikes inside Pakistan, targets ISIS centres: Taliban

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