Security officials say this context has strengthened the need for heightened vigilance.

Although the broad outline of Putin’s program has been finalized, Indian authorities have withheld details of his accommodation and precise movement routes due to strict security protocols. Officials say only a small circle within the government has access to the full plan.

Delhi Police have deployed top-ranking officers to supervise the operation, covering traffic control, movement restrictions, and the sanitization of areas that Putin may pass through. Entire stretches of roads, government districts, and diplomatic zones are expected to undergo multiple security sweeps.

The capital will also introduce temporary traffic diversions, restricted zones and pedestrian controls around high-security areas. Officials said advisories will be issued in advance to minimize disruptions for residents, although delays and detours are still expected.

More than 50 members of Russia’s advance security and protocol teams are arriving ahead of the visit. They will inspect all proposed routes, potential stopover points, and venues earmarked for bilateral talks and ceremonial engagements. 

Indian officials say the Russian side is conducting “exceptionally detailed” checks.

During the visit, Delhi will come under a multi-layered security ring involving Delhi Police, central intelligence agencies and Putin’s elite personal security detail. The deployment includes SWAT teams, anti-terror units, bomb disposal squads and quick-reaction teams stationed across strategic points in the city.

In addition, authorities will employ extensive surveillance measures, including drone monitoring, expanded CCTV coverage and advanced technical intelligence systems to detect potential threats. Special airspace restrictions are also likely to be implemented while the Russian president is in the capital.

Security officials say the scale of preparations reflects both protocol and caution. “This is a high-stakes visit, and nothing is being left to chance,” a police officer said. “The city will effectively be under a security lockdown as long as President Putin is here.”

Modi framed the initiative as a crucial tool not only for disaster risk reduction, but also for development. He highlighted India’s leadership in this area through its Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), emphasising that international cooperation must go beyond reaction to crises — it must support long-term planning and sustainable growth.

The proposal comes alongside his advocacy for fairer climate finance , including debt relief, blended financing and green-transition mechanisms for developing countries. He said that innovative tools like satellite data must be complemented by financial solutions that make the energy transition both ambitious and equitable.

Modi’s pitch at the summit reflects a growing call for space technology to play a central role in global sustainability, offering a way to use cutting-edge science to protect vulnerable populations and empower nations to take a more active role in shaping their own development path.

This, after Trump’s meeting with EU officials , in which he pressed for punitive tariffs on Chinese and Indian exports as part of his strategy to force Russia into ending the war in Ukraine, now entering its fourth year.

“I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people ,” Modi said. 

Trump had initially set a 25% tariff on imports from India, one of the world’s most populous nations and a major exporter of petroleum products, telecoms equipment and pharmaceuticals. But India’s trade with Russia prompted him to double that to 50%, one of the steepest levies Washington has imposed on any country.

In a separate post on his platform Truth Social, Trump said he anticipated meeting Modi “in the coming weeks” and foresaw “no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries.”

As early as August, when he announced the 50% tariff, Trump warned that the same economic penalties could be applied to other countries importing Russian oil, pointedly adding, “one of them could be China.”

International relations scholar Dr. Ila Joshi told Global South World before Trump floated the 100% tariff proposal that Washington risked undoing years of diplomatic outreach with its punitive economic sanctions.

“Some harm has been done. It took a long time for the U.S.to build these relations with the countries, to build those trust factors with the countries. Then suddenly everything breaks and snaps,” said Joshi, who primarily studies China and India.

“Definitely now the U.S. will have to rethink its strategy,” she added.  “Him antagonizing India, well, that’s not an intelligent thing to do.”

While Modi has continued to stress India’s partnership with the U.S., he has also drawn closer to Russia and China, most recently during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit , where more than 20 regional leaders discussed security, peace and trade.

Joshi said Modi’s approach reflected India’s long-standing policy of keeping its options open, describing its foreign policy as “independent” and “practical.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, September 1, that the two countries stood side by side even in difficult times, after Putin called him a “dear friend” and offered him a ride in his armoured limousine. The interaction took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Tianjin, where Modi also joined Chinese President Xi Jinping. China and India remain the biggest buyers of Russian crude oil despite U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Modi later posted a photo on X of his limousine ride with Putin.

Modi and Xi pledge to resolve border issues

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi pledged on Sunday, August 31, to address their long-standing border differences and strengthen cooperation ahead of the SCO summit in Tianjin. This was Modi’s first visit to China since the 2020 border clashes that strained ties. Modi noted progress in bilateral relations and emphasised the importance of peace along the borders for continued development. Xi said the meeting should “further elevate” the relationship and that the border issue should not define the overall trajectory of China-India ties.

India’s economic growth fails to lift markets

India’s GDP grew 7.8% in the April–June quarter, but nominal growth slowed to 8.8% from 10.8%, signalling weaker inflation. Corporate earnings reflected the slowdown, with revenue growth of the top 3,000 listed companies slipping to a seven-quarter low of 3.4%. Analysts at ICICI Bank and Janus Henderson Investors warned of weak credit growth, asset quality concerns in banks, and the drag of U.S. tariffs on investor confidence. Foreign funds are expected to remain cautious despite the country’s strong real growth figures.

Rohingya refugees expelled without protection

Indian authorities have expelled scores of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh and Myanmar since May 2025, Human Rights Watch said. Many were arbitrarily detained and mistreated before being deported, including 192 UNHCR-registered refugees sent to Bangladesh and 40 forced to swim ashore in Myanmar. The campaign, initiated in BJP-governed states, has led dozens more to flee to Bangladesh. HRW condemned the expulsions as violations of international law and accused the government of targeting Muslims under its policy of branding them “illegal immigrants.”

U.S. advisor criticises India over Russia ties

U.S. President Donald Trump’s advisor Peter Navarro renewed criticism of India’s oil trade with Russia, accusing the country of indirectly funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine. In an interview with Fox News, Navarro alleged that “Brahmins are profiteering at the expense of Indians” and called India a “laundromat for the Kremlin.” He defended the 50% U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, saying 25% reflected India’s own “Maharaja of tariffs.” Navarro argued that India’s discounted oil purchases, which are resold to other markets, fuel the Russian war machine.

“To uphold international fairness and justice , we must take action through Shanghai Cooperation. Member states, adhering to principles of fairness, constructively engage in international and regional affairs and defend the shared interests of the Global South,” Xi said.

“We must resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics and practise genuine multilateralism, acting as a cornerstone for the diversification of the world and democratisation of international relations,” he continued. 

China also announced plans for expanded cooperation in areas including renewable energy, green industry, digital economy, artificial intelligence, education, and healthcare. It said the SCO remains committed to non-alignment, inclusive growth, and serving as a stabilising force in global affairs.

The SCO is a regional intergovernmental organisation founded in June 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It was created to strengthen political, security, and economic cooperation across Eurasia, building on the earlier “Shanghai Five” mechanism established in 1996.

Today, the SCO has nine full members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. The organisation also has observer states, including Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia, as well as dialogue partners such as Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia.

Modi, Putin talk Ukraine war

On the sidelines of the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held bilateral talks that focused on the two global powers’ partnership and the war in Ukraine.

Putin described relations between Moscow and New Delhi as “special, friendly and trusting,” saying this foundation would continue to guide future cooperation. Modi described the partnership as “special, privileged, and strategic.” 

“Even in the most challenging circumstances, India and Russia have consistently moved forward together, shoulder to shoulder. Our close co-operation is vital not only for the peoples of our two nations but also for maintaining global peace, stability, and prosperity,” the Indian president said.

On Ukraine, Modi said the two leaders “regularly share perspectives on the ongoing conflict ” and reiterated India’s position on peace efforts. 

“We welcome all recent efforts to establish peace and hope that all parties will approach this matter constructively. We must find ways to bring the conflict to an end and restore peace as swiftly as possible. This is a call shared by all of humanity,” he said.

Putin used his appearance at the SCO to defend Moscow’s position, claiming Russia’s actions in Ukraine were “a result of a coup…supported and provoked by the West” and blaming NATO expansion for fuelling tensions. 

He praised the SCO for promoting “genuine multilateralism” and for “laying the political and socio-economic groundwork for the formation of a new system of stability and security in Eurasia,” which he said would move away from “outdated Eurocentric and Euro-Atlantic models.”

The Commission rejected the Congress leader’s accusations, asserting its fulfilment of constitutional responsibilities impartially.

“When the gun is placed on the shoulders of the Election Commission to target voters in India and politics is being done, today the Election Commission wants to make it clear to everyone that the Election Commission stands fearlessly with all poor, rich, elderly, women, and youth, including all classes and all religions, without any discrimination," he said.

"The Election Commission stood strong as a rock, it stands strong, and it will continue to stand strong,” he added.

Gandhi, leader of the INDIA alliance, refused to submit an affidavit and reiterated allegations of “vote theft.”

“Across India, assembly [state polls ] and Lok Sabha [national polls] elections are being stolen, and the final conspiracy is that in Bihar [scheduled to vote later this year], they aim to steal the elections by adding new voters under the guise of ‘SIR’ [Special Intensive Revision of voters] and removing existing voters," Gandhi said.

"We will not allow them to steal this election,” he added.

In the 2024 elections , the incumbent National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, secured a majority by winning 293 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, with 240 of those held by the BJP itself.

The opposition INDIA alliance gained 234 seats, including 99 won by the Indian National Congress.

Modi assumed office for a third consecutive term as prime minister in June 2024.

In his first public remarks since U.S. President Donald Trump announced a punitive 50% tariff on Indian goods.

The U.S. administration on Wednesday added an extra 25% duty on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil as the reason behind the move. The new tariff, which takes effect August 28, is among the steepest Washington has imposed on any trading partner.

While Modi did not directly reference the United States or mention the stalled trade talks, his remarks came across as a pointed response to the rising pressure from Washington.

Negotiations between the two countries collapsed after five rounds, with the U.S. demanding greater access to India’s farm and dairy markets and a halt to oil imports from Russia — terms New Delhi has resisted.

The other developments include the passage of amendments to the national citizenship law that are seen to discriminate against Muslims; vigilante attacks on Muslims selling or consuming meat in the name of beef, which is banned in most of India; and the enforcement of regulations that make marriages between Hindus and Muslims difficult. Hindus constitute about 80% of India’s population and Muslims 15%.

With the rise of Hindu majoritarian politics and the government’s willingness to trample Muslims, there has been massive censorship with activists, journalists, lawyers, and academicians facing criminal cases and jail time. Anyone who has tried to question the workings of the government has been faced with anti-terror laws, which are being massively misused, raising concerns about the freedom of speech in the country.

Any kind of dissent has also been stopped. The Hindu majority country’s politics and repression of free speech have raised global concerns; however, the government has refused to acknowledge and continues to trample any kind of dissent.

Nikita Jain is a Delhi-based journalist with almost a decade of journalism experience. She has covered important issues in India, including gender, conflict, politics, environment, and human rights , among others. Her work has been published at national and international forums. She also won the Laadli Awards in 2023 for her story. She also went to cover the 2025 Global March to Gaza in Egypt.

As part of his engagements, Modi handed over Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to Prime Minister Ramgoolam and his wife, Veena Ramgoolam, in recognition of India’s deep-rooted connections with its diaspora.

The gesture follows India’s recent decision to extend OCI eligibility to Mauritian nationals of Indian descent up to seven generations.

Addressing a gathering of over 3,500 attendees, including members of the Mauritius cabinet, Ramgoolam expressed his gratitude for the surprise announcement. Mauritius currently hosts 22,188 Indian nationals and 13,198 OCI cardholders.

"Mauritius is a close maritime neighbour, a key partner in the Indian Ocean, and a gateway to the African Continent," Modi said ahead of his departure. "We are connected by history, geography and culture."

During his visit, PM Modi is expected to sign at least eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering key areas such as maritime security, community development, and cultural cooperation. He will also inaugurate 23 India-funded projects and announce new initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral collaboration.

The High Court of Guyana has delivered a landmark ruling, ordering the State to compensate $24 million for the unlawful killing of Quindon Bacchus, a father of one who was shot dead by police in 2022. Investigations revealed serious inconsistencies in the police’s account of events that led to Bacchus being shot six times during an alleged undercover operation involving an unlicensed firearm. This ruling by Justice Nigel Niles not only provides recognition of the breach of Bacchus’s right to life but also aims to advance police accountability in Guyana.

Guyana president says new project to half electricity costs 

Guyana President  Irfaan Ali has announced a transformative Gas-to-Energy project expected to reduce electricity costs by half within the next year. This 300 MW natural gas-fired plant at Wales, in the disputed Essequibo region will tap into resources from the Stabroek Block, Offshore Guyana and aims for integration into the national grid by 2025. However, the project is encountering delays due to ongoing arbitration, which could see the contractor facing significant financial penalties for these setbacks. In addition to this project, the government is exploring further energy capacity enhancements through additional natural gas plants and renewable energy projects.

Indian PM Modi expected in Guyana

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised for a historic visit to Guyana, marking a notable event as it is the first visit by an Indian PM since 1968. During his three-day visit, agreements on energy and defence are anticipated, alongside meetings with President Ali and speeches to the Guyanese parliament. He will also engage in a Caricom-India Summit focusing on improved collaboration in energy, agriculture, health, and technology.

Guyana the first developing nation to submit climate transparency report

Guyana has become the first developing nation to submit a Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This report details Guyana’s greenhouse gas emissions and national climate strategies in adherence to the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. 

Migrant horrors and violence against transgender women in Guyana

The Inter-American Human Rights Commission has highlighted the challenges faced by migrants, sex workers, and transgender women in Guyana related to gender-based violence. The testimony of activists and government representatives revealed systemic issues that exacerbate vulnerability, including fear of legal repercussions for seeking help among migrant women. The government, led by Minister Gail Teixeira, is reportedly advancing legislative measures to support these vulnerable populations, reaffirming its commitment to uphold the rights of all women in Guyana and to address the scourge of violence against them.

The ongoing military and diplomatic tensions between India and China appear to be easing, with Indian and Chinese troops expected to complete their disengagement in the Depsang and Demchok areas of Ladakh, the eastern part of the disputed Kashmir by the month-end. This disengagement is part of a newly established patrolling agreement aimed at resolving the skirmishes that have plagued the Line of Actual Control since May 2020, including a fatal confrontation in Galwan that claimed the lives of 20 Indian soldiers.

India seeks to bolster German ties amid visit of Chancellor Scholz

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in crucial discussions with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on October 25, 2024, in New Delhi. These talks were centred on enhancing strategic ties in the wake of increasing Chinese influence. Key agreements were signed focusing on several sectors, including defence, information technology, clean energy, skill development, and artificial intelligence. Chancellor Scholz underscored Germany's position as India's primary trading partner within the EU and indicated a willingness to support a free trade agreement, while concurrently increasing skilled work visas for Indian nationals from 20,000 to 90,000.

Cyclone Dana wreaks havoc in India

Cyclone Dana struck the eastern Indian coastline, resulting in destructive winds reaching up to 110 km/h, alongside heavy precipitation and elevated sea levels that led to flooding in coastal districts. In response, over 1.1 million citizens in Odisha and West Bengal were evacuated to storm shelters to ensure their safety, with authorities commending the effectiveness of these evacuation operations despite the cyclone damaging numerous homes and halting operations at major airports in Kolkata. As of the latest reports, no casualties have been recorded, although experts highlight the increasing intensity of storms attributed to climate change, despite advancements in forecasting and emergency response measures.

Indian flights receive bomb threats

Reports emerged of a bomb threat directed at over 25 flights in India on Friday, October 25, triggering a wave of heightened security protocols across the country. The specifics of these threats remain under investigation as authorities mobilise to guarantee passenger safety in light of this alarming incident.

Casualties in disputed Kashmir

In Kashmir, violence has escalated, with a tragic attack leading to the deaths of two Indian soldiers and two civilian porters near Gulmarg due to a rebel ambush. The ambush involved gunfire targeted at an army vehicle, resulting in injuries to three additional soldiers, with military accounts labelling it a brief firefight. This incident follows a recent militant attack near Sonamarg, which resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and underscores the ongoing violence in the region that has persisted since 1989, claiming tens of thousands of lives while remaining a contentious issue between India and Pakistan as both nations stake claim over Kashmir.

The revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019 by the Hindu-nationalist government under Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left many in the Muslim-majority region frustrated. The decision brought the area under tighter control from New Delhi, eroding local governance power.

Ahead of the elections, some residents have voiced tempered expectations. Mukhtar Ahmad Tantray, a 65-year-old retired government officer, told AFP: “It won't make that much difference since the local government doesn't have a lot of power now. But still, with a representative government, people can go and plead with their local representatives and tell them their grievances. Even if the representatives cannot do anything, they can still at least raise the issues."

Sharing these sentiments, 73-year-old trader Navin Kotwal said, “You see the kind of system that has been formed; until statehood is restored, we'll have to work within the system the government in Delhi has pushed us into.”

However, some locals view the elections as a step toward easing the bureaucratic stranglehold on the region. Syed Ali Choudhary, a 38-year-old dairy farmer and activist, commented, "I agree that the government that will be formed won't have as much power as before, but at least the people of Jammu and Kashmir will have some relief. There are a lot of apprehensions regarding the government that will be formed, but there is a saying: something is better than nothing. I feel it will be the end of ten years of excess bureaucratic rule in Jammu and Kashmir."

The elections will be held in three phases , starting on September 18, followed by additional voting on September 25 and October 1. The results are set to be announced on October 8.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it "one of the worst natural calamities Kerala has ever witnessed."

"This catastrophe has resulted in the loss of 108 lives," he added in a statement cited by AFP.

"My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured," Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media platform X.

The Indian army has sent over 200 soldiers to help with the rescue efforts. However, rescue operations are challenging due to blocked roads. The National Disaster Response Force has been seen wading through mud and transporting bodies on stretchers.

The region's tea estates were hit by two landslides before dawn, affecting many residents and workers. Families of the deceased will receive $2,400 (200,000 rupees) in compensation. More than 3,000 people are now in emergency relief camps.

Recent months have seen severe flooding in Mumbai and fatal lightning strikes in Bihar. The deadliest landslide in recent decades occurred in 1998 in the Himalayas, killing at least 220 people.

For the first time, it establishes a direct train link between the restive Kashmir valley and the expansive Indian plains.

"The bridge is going to be helpful in the larger movement of troops and of ammunition because previously it was buses and trucks that would bring people and take people. We would have army convoys moving in because there was disruption on the roads," Noor Ahmad Aaba, political analyst is quoted by the AFP.

"It would give connectivity of Kashmir to the rest of the world. Therefore, I think it would be constantly helping the feeding of security forces whether they are in Ladakh, operating from Ladakh, or from the border area of Kashmir so that way, it is going to be helpful," he added.

In March, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first visit to Kashmir since the controversial decision in 2019 to revoke the region's special semi-autonomous status, a move that was met with resistance in Kashmir.

According to the AFP report, the Chenab Rail Bridge, however, has ignited apprehensions among some locals in a region that is home to a permanent garrison of over half a million soldiers.

A London-bound Air India flight from Cochin, a city in southwest India received a bomb threat, but it turned out to be a hoax. The suspect, a 29-year-old man, has been apprehended. The flight was thoroughly checked and cleared for departure. The suspect, along with his wife and daughter, has been handed over to the police for further questioning, local media Hindustan Times reports.

Half of India’s population physically unfit

A Lancet study found that half of India's adult population does not meet WHO's guidelines for physical activity. The prevalence of physical inactivity has increased sharply, especially among women. Cultural factors and lack of outdoor spaces contribute to this trend. Women in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have lower physical activity levels than men, as reported by the Indian Express .

Indians in Kenya advised amid violent protest

The Indian consulate in Kenya has advised Indian nationals living in the East African nation to limit non-essential movement due to violent protests against proposed tax hikes. At least five protestors were killed and over 150 injured in Nairobi. According to local news channel NDTV , Indians have been urged to follow local news and updates from the Indian consulate.

World Inequality Report

The World Inequality Report found that 90% of billionaire wealth in India is held by the upper castes, with no representation from Scheduled Tribes. This inequality is reflected in the overall wealth distribution, where upper castes hold 55% of the national wealth. Caste continues to influence access to education, healthcare, and credit, leading to further economic disparities. India's income and wealth inequality has increased dramatically, with the top 1% now controlling 40% of total wealth. This makes India one of the most unequal countries globally, with the bottom 50% holding only 15% of national income and 6.4% of total wealth.

Prime Minister Modi to visit Russia

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Moscow for the India-Russia annual summit, the highest institutionalised dialogue mechanism between the two countries. The visit, which is expected to take place in the second week of July, could be Modi's first bilateral visit since assuming office for his third consecutive term. The summit will be his first to Russia since the Ukraine invasion after he last visited the Eurasian nation in 2019. The visit is expected to take place days after the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan which Modi has decided to skip, the Times of India reports.

Amit Shah has taken charge as the Union home minister in Narendra Modi's 3.0 cabinet. This signifies a shift in leadership and potential changes in policies related to home affairs in India, Times of India reports.

Hockey Men's Junior World Cup

India has been chosen to host the 2025 International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, with a total of 24 teams participating for the first time. The decision was praised by FIH President Tayyab Ikram and Hockey India, who are looking forward to showcasing the future talent of the sport. The tournament will take place in December 2025, and the last edition was won by Germany in 2023.

Air traffic conflict

Indian officials are investigating a serious runway conflict at Mumbai Airport between Air India and IndiGo A320neos. The incident, which occurred on June 8, saw the IndiGo aircraft landing as the Air India aircraft was taking off, with only a few hundred meters separating them. Flight Global reports that both airlines have reported following air traffic control instructions, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the conflict.

Heatwaves

India is currently facing its longest heatwave, with temperatures over 50C in some areas. At least 60 heat-related deaths have been reported, but the actual number is likely higher. Water shortages and heat-related illnesses are having a major impact. The monsoon is expected to bring some relief, but officials warn that heatwaves will continue to be a problem if precautions are not taken. The country's reliance on coal for power is contributing to the problem, the BBC reports.

Religious diversity in minority affairs ministry

The minority affairs ministry has elected for the first time in its history, a Buddhist Kiren Rijiju as its head. Before this, the ministry was led by Muslims even under BJP governments. However, the pattern broke when Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi resigned a day before his term as Rajya Sabha member ended in July 2022 and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani got additional charge of the ministry. According to the Times of India , Rijiju will be assisted by a Christian from Kerala, George Kurian.

“Humbled to announce the successful completion of our first flight - Mission 01 of Agnibaan SOrTeD - from our own and India’s first & only private Launchpad within SDSC-SHAR at Sriharikota. All the mission objectives of this controlled vertical ascent flight were met and performance was nominal,” Agnikul Cosmos announced on X (formerly Twitter).

“The vehicle was completely designed in-house and was powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D printed engine and also happens to be India’s first flight with a semi-cryo engine,” the company added.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to celebrate this milestone. “A remarkable feat which will make the entire nation proud! The successful launch of Agnibaan rocket powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine is a momentous occasion for India’s space sector and a testament to the remarkable ingenuity of our Yuva Shakti,” Modi stated.

Following the successful rocket launch, Agnikul Cosmos shared a video of the launch on June 2, detailing several key achievements of the mission. According to the company, Mission 01 of Agnibaan SOrTeD achieved several firsts:

The success of Agnikul Cosmos paves the way for significantly reduced time and costs associated with building rockets. Co-founder and CEO Srinath Ravichandran explained to TechCrunch before the launch that their 3D printing technology allows them to build a rocket engine in just 72 to 75 hours, compared to the 10 to 12 weeks required using traditional methods.

“We stand out because of the single-piece component where there is no human intervention in the process; what comes out of the printer is of full length, without any welding or tightening or anything of that sort,” Ravichandran said.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also announced in May that they had successfully tested a 3D-printed rocket engine, which in its manufacturing required only one engine part instead of fourteen, saving the organisation 60% more time and 90% less raw material.

India says Canada has not provided evidence linking it to the death of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada. Three Indian nationals living in Canada have been charged in the assassination, but the investigation into their ties to the Indian government is ongoing. India has complained to Canada about harbouring Indian extremists and has been in diplomatic discussions about the case. The U.S. ambassador to India is satisfied with India's efforts to address alleged assassination plots against Sikh activists in the U.S. The Guardian reports that India has expressed concern about the linkage to officials and has promised to formally investigate the U.S. concerns.

Hindu citizens

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of being "anti-Hindu" and wanting to make Hindus second-class citizens. He criticised the Congress party, accusing it of supporting reservations based on religion, which he argued are against the constitution. He alleged that Congress aims to diminish the status of Hindus within India, making them second-class citizens, Indian Express reported . He also highlighted his government's economic achievements and success in reducing terrorist attacks.

India supports Palestine's UN membership

The United Nations passed a resolution supporting full membership for Palestine, with 143 votes in favour including India. The resolution grants new privileges to the Palestinian Authority as a non-member observer state and calls for favourable consideration of their bid by the UN Security Council. According to the Business Standard , the U.S. and Israel voted against the text, and the US warned it would likely veto the request in the Security Council. The resolution endows the Palestinian Authority with new procedural rights and privileges in the UN General Assembly.

Natural disaster

Two persons have been killed and 23 injured after a massive dust and thunderstorm hit Delhi-NCR. Trees fell, buildings were damaged, power outages, traffic disruptions and flight diversions were reported. According to NDTV , more rain and thunderstorms are expected in the national capital. Strong winds and gusty winds were reported. Residents are advised to stay indoors and secure windows. Maximum temperature reached 39 degrees Celsius with 64% humidity.

India to keep China in check

India hails the 1998 decision to blast a nuclear weapon as a move to defend national security and keep China in check. The nuclear doctrine includes a "No First Use" policy and a commitment to nuclear disarmament, reports Express Newspapers . This decision is seen as stabilising in the region and has helped keep the world a safer place. The use of the ancient Sanskrit name Bharat reflects the transformation under Modi's tenure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised India's accomplishment in successfully testing the Agni-5 Missile, developed domestically, as a major milestone for the country. He commended DRDO scientists for their contributions to "Mission Divyastra," highlighting the test's integration of Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) Technology. This technology will ensure that a single missile can deploy multiple warheads at different locations , reports Times of India .

Citizenship law

Just ahead of the upcoming general elections, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Rules, in 2024. The CAA which could not be implemented in 2019 extends Indian nationality to Hindus, Parsis, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Christians who fled religious persecution in Muslim-majority Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan before December 31, 2014, media agency The Hindu reports. However, rights and Muslim groups express concerns that the law could potentially discriminate against India's 200 million Muslims, the world's third-largest Muslim population.

Mass protests

The notification of the rules for implementing the Citizenship Amendment (CAA) Act by the Centre has reignited tensions in the Indian state of Assam with opposition parties and regional groups calling for peaceful mass protests. Bamboo barricades have been erected in Guwahati city in preparation for demonstrations. Security measures have been heightened around key government buildings, including the Legislative Assembly and Janata Bhawan. Lurinjyoti Gogoi, president of the Asom Jatiya Parishad, described it as a "black day" for Assam and urged protests across the state, Indian Express reported.

New beginning for women

Addressing a 'Sashakt Nari-Viksit Bharat' programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence in his government's ability to continue in power during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, stating that his third term will mark a new beginning for women. Taking a swipe at previous administrations, he highlighted the lack of attention given to women's issues and hardships, contrasting it with the BJP's initiatives aimed at supporting women at every stage of life. Modi noted his role as the first prime minister to address various issues affecting women, such as sanitation, access to sanitary pads, clean cooking fuels, and financial inclusion, local media Daily Pioneer reported.

Railway projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the Freight Corridor's (DFC) Operation Control Centre in Ahmedabad on March 12 to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for a series of railway projects collectively valued at over Rs 85,000 crore (about $10.2 million), reports local media NDA . According to an official release from the Prime Minister's Office, the projects include the foundation stone laying for Railway Workshops, Loco Sheds, Pit lines/Coaching Depots, as well as the Phaltan-Baramati New line and Electric Traction System upgradation work.

Indians who worked as support staff to the Russian Army were discharged following India's demand, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported on February 26. Many Indians have reportedly been employed by the Russian military as security assistants, and in some instances, they have even been forced to engage in combat alongside Russian soldiers near Russia's border with Ukraine, The Hindu reports. The MEA stated that the Asian nation remains committed to pursuing all cases of Indian nationals seeking early discharge from the Russian Army. "Each and every such case brought to the attention of the Indian embassy in Moscow has been strongly taken up with the Russian authorities and those brought to the attention of the Ministry have been taken up with the Russian embassy in New Delhi," the MEA said in a statement.

Imposed curfew

A curfew has been imposed in a town called Ambad taluka, in India’s Maharashtra, a state in the western peninsular region of India due to law and order concerns over Indian activist Manoj Jarange-Patil's Maratha reservation agitation. According to Hindustan Times , the order states that Jarange plans to travel to Mumbai to protest, potentially leading to traffic disruptions on the Dhule-Mumbai highway. Government offices, schools, national highways, milk distribution, media outlets, and hospitals are exempt from the curfew, Hindustan Times reports.

Inauguration of iOS development lab

Apple has opened an iOS Development Lab at Galgotias University in Delhi, aiming to nurture the next generation of iOS developers. Apple Senior Vice President Greg Joswiak announced the news on his X (formerly Twitter) account on February 20. “Today marked the grand opening of the iOS Development Lab at Galgotia University in Delhi. I loved meeting with the next generation of iOS developers and seeing the lab outfitted with 100 iMacs,” the Apple senior VP said. The initiative, which is part of the TWITCH collaboration, provides students with hands-on learning opportunities and access to Apple's learning materials and industry best practices. Hindustan Times quotes Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University to have said, “The learnings from the iOS Development Centre will have a far-reaching impact well beyond the boundaries of the centre, specifically in the teaching-learning pedagogy of the entire university.”

Teachers booked over students' suicide

Two teachers of a government-aided school have been charged with the suicide of a student, who was found hanging at home after being subjected to physical and mental torture, Press Trust of India reports. The student took his life on the evening of February 15 at home, according to the victim's relatives, after certain school teachers had physically and mentally tormented him. According to the Press Trust of India, the teachers were charged under sections of the country’s law for voluntarily inflicting hurt and the Juvenile Justice Act which is non-bailable.

Addition of 18 nuclear power reactors

India plans to add 18 more nuclear power reactors, generating 13,800 MWe of electricity by 2031-2032, increasing its share of atomic power in the energy mix to 22,480 MWe. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) announced the move after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 22, dedicated two reactors at the Asian nation’s Kakrapar Atomic Power Station in Gujarat, a state along the western coast of India, Indian Express reports. “These reactors have been designed, constructed, commissioned, and operated by NPCIL, with the supply of equipment and execution of contracts by Indian industries/ companies, reflecting the true spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” the NPCIL said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, a rooftop solar scheme aimed at providing free electricity to 1 crore (ten million) households. With an investment exceeding Rs 75,000 crores (about $9 million), this initiative will offer up to 300 units of free electricity monthly. The central government will ensure no financial burden on the people by providing significant subsidies directly to their bank accounts and offering highly concessional bank loans. Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats will be encouraged to promote rooftop solar systems, aiming to increase income, reduce power bills, and generate employment opportunities, reports local media Times of India .

Farmers protest

Chaos at the Shambhu border as protesting farmers broke through police barricades in an attempt to cross over, leading to clashes with the Haryana police who detained several farmers. Farmers from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan have converged at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border, prompting authorities to block all routes into Delhi with barricades and nails to prevent further incursions, local media The Statesman reports. The farmers demand a minimum support price (MSP) for their produce, an assurance made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the repeal of the three contentious farm laws in November 2021.

Temporary jail

The Delhi government has rejected the Centre's proposal to repurpose the Bawana stadium into a temporary jail ahead of the farmers' march to the national capital. Minister Kailash Gahlot, in a letter to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, emphasized solidarity with the farmers' cause, highlighting their constitutional right to peaceful protest and the genuineness of their demands. He urged the Central Government to engage in dialogue with the farmers and address their grievances rather than resorting to arrests, local media Daily Pioneer reported.

COVID cases

India has witnessed four COVID-19-related fatalities along with 123 new positive cases between February 12 and February 13, as reported by the Union Health Ministry. The death toll has now reached 533,466 with two deaths in Delhi, and one each in Maharashtra and Gujarat. The total number of Covid cases in the country has risen to 450,273,048, including cases of the JN.1 Covid variant. Karnataka reported 39 new cases, followed by Maharashtra with 28, and Chhattisgarh with 13. Additionally, five cases were recorded in the national capital. 114 individuals have recovered from the disease, contributing to a total recovery tally of 44,493,006 , reports local media The Statesman .

India-Qatar partnership

India and Qatar maintain historically close and friendly relations, with ties deepening in recent years, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a statement ahead of his visit to Doha, Modi expressed anticipation for a meeting with Qatar's Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recognizing Qatar's remarkable growth and transformation under his leadership, local media New Indian Express reported. Modi's visit to Qatar follows his two-day trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The announcement of his visit coincided with the release of seven out of eight Indian Navy personnel who had been sentenced to death in Qatar.