Indian LPG vessels safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East tensions, with the government assuring all Indian crew are secure. Despite panic booking, LPG supplies remain stable. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released after his NSA detention was revoked.
Tensions flared near Girish Park in Kolkata as TMC and BJP supporters clashed, pelting stones and raising slogans just before Prime Minister Modi's rally. Both parties accused each other of initiating the violence, with claims of damaged vehicles and hurled abuses. Police intervened to restore order in the area.
Despite India's rich intellectual tradition and early Nobel laureates like Tagore and Raman, the country has experienced long gaps in recognition. Factors like brain drain, limited funding, and an emphasis on publications over long-term innovation hinder the journey from research to global acclaim. The case of Mahatma Gandhi's missed Peace Prize also highlights complexities beyond merit.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer apologised for «anti-India» social media posts after facing backlash for racist remarks. While she expressed regret for offending people, Loomer stood firm on her opposition to the H-1B visa program, citing a need to protect American workers. She also criticized Pakistan, accusing it of supporting extremist networks.
Tamil Nadu is offering a Rs 2 per unit electricity subsidy for restaurants and food businesses switching from LPG to electric stoves, aiming to mitigate fuel shortage impacts. The state also provides subsidized loans for electric equipment and allows industries temporary use of alternative fuels. Measures are in place to support farmers and monitor LPG distribution.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a strong attack on the TMC in Kolkata, accusing the party of protecting rapists and insulting President Droupadi Murmu. He also alleged that the TMC opposes electoral roll revisions to shield infiltrators and deliberately alters demographics, making Hindus a minority in several areas.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act has been revoked by the Centre with immediate effect. Wangchuk was detained over allegations of inciting unrest in Ladakh, with the government citing his remarks as potentially destabilizing. His wife had challenged the detention in the Supreme Court.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday criticised the Congress during a public address in Silchar, Assam, accusing the party of neglecting the Barak Valley for decades after Independence. He said the region lost its historic trade strength after its link to the sea was cut due to the way borders were drawn. Modi also inaugurated projects worth around Rs 24,000 crore, including the Shillong–Silchar high-speed corridor.
A parliamentary panel urged the finance ministry to allocate fertilizer subsidy funds at the budget estimate stage to align with actual needs. The committee also recommended boosting domestic production due to higher subsidy burdens on imported urea and NPK fertilizers, citing significant cost differences.
The BJP has blamed alleged Muslim infiltrators from Bangladesh for recent violence in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills, citing demographic shifts and attempts to usurp tribal rights. Tensions escalated after tribals protested non-tribal nominations for council elections, following a high court ruling.
Two Indian nationals were killed and ten others injured in a drone strike in Oman's Sohar province. This incident brings the total number of Indian deaths in the ongoing West Asian conflict to five. The Indian mission is providing assistance to the affected individuals and their company.
India is responding to urgent fuel requests from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. These nations face shortages due to Middle East supply disruptions. India, a major refiner, is assessing its domestic needs before deciding on exports. This situation highlights India's growing role as a regional energy partner.
Iran's Ambassador to India indicated that Indian vessels could soon receive safe passage through regional maritime routes, emphasizing strong bilateral ties. This development comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia affecting shipping and energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. Discussions are also underway for Indian ships to transport energy resources.
As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh approaches its centenary, it's prioritizing expanding its 'shakhas' and intensifying public outreach. The organization aims for broader social engagement, focusing on harmony and transformation. Extensive 'grihasampark' programs have already reached millions of homes nationwide, including diverse communities in Kerala, signaling a significant push for wider societal connection.
Home Secretary Govind Mohan urged law enforcement agencies to ensure prompt and coordinated responses to online crimes against women and children. He also called on IT intermediaries to adhere to legal provisions for a secure digital space. The national dialogue aims to strengthen mechanisms for preventing and responding to these evolving cyber threats.
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held his fourth phone call with Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi, discussing bilateral ties and BRICS issues amidst Middle East tensions. The conversation followed recent discussions on the Strait of Hormuz and maritime security, with Iran blaming US actions for regional instability.
