China's dominance in rare earth minerals, particularly samarium, poses a significant challenge to the US and its allies in replenishing military equipment. Export restrictions on these materials, vital for defence applications, are impacting weapon production. Despite ongoing trade negotiations, China is unlikely to ease these restrictions.
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India's foreign exchange reserves witnessed a substantial increase of $5.17 billion, reaching $696.65 billion for the week ending June 6, reversing the previous week's decline. This surge was fueled by gains in foreign currency assets and a significant rise in gold reserves. The robust reserve position is expected to bolster the RBI's efforts to stabilize the rupee amidst global volatility.
Tata Group is establishing India's first semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Ahmedabad. Gujarat is supporting the project by building residential accommodations for Tata employees and vendors. The project includes 1,500 residential units, a fire station, school, hospital and desalination plant. The first chip production is expected by December 2026.
India and China are actively working to improve their relationship, focusing on resuming direct air services and resolving trade and economic concerns. Discussions between officials included the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and trans-border river cooperation. Both sides are preparing for future talks on the border issue and high-level meetings, aiming to stabilize ties and increase mutual trust.
The Chambal ravines, once hideouts for bandits, are now training grounds for organized crime, as revealed by the arrest of gangster Jeetu Chambal. He operated a makeshift shooting range used by interstate gangs, including those linked to Lawrence Bishnoi and Anandpal Singh, to train sharpshooters.
Karun Nair, poised for a Test comeback after eight years, revealed a senior Indian cricketer once urged him to retire for league riches. Defying advice, Nair's domestic dominance and resilience earned him a spot in India’s squad for England Tests.
Google is reportedly cutting ties with Scale AI after Meta's significant investment, raising data security concerns among major clients like Microsoft and xAI. These companies fear proprietary data exposure to a competitor. Google, initially planning a $200 million payment to Scale this year, is actively shifting its workload to rivals, potentially impacting Scale's operations.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused President Trump of disrespecting National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles amid immigration protests, citing inadequate conditions and a politically motivated deployment. Newsom filed a lawsuit, alleging Trump exceeded his authority, while Trump suggested Newsom should be arrested for defiance. The Pentagon defended the operation, hinting at future militarized homeland approaches.
Imran Khan's prolonged detention in Adiala Jail appears increasingly precarious due to escalating tensions with India, shifting international dynamics, and a domestic power nexus determined to keep him confined. The military's strengthened position and repaired relations with the US have further diminished prospects for his release. Facing numerous legal challenges and a fractured party, Khan's political future remains uncertain.
In the 2025 WTC Final at Lord's, Steve Smith surpassed Sir Don Bradman and Sir Garfield Sobers to become the highest run-scorer by a visiting batter at the venue, amassing 591 runs. Smith's resilient 66 off 112 balls, featuring 10 boundaries, provided crucial stability for Australia after a top-order collapse against South Africa's potent pace attack.
The government launched a Central Waqf Portal, requiring registered properties to upload details for a unique ID, aligning with the Waqf Amendment Act 2025. Minister Rijiju emphasized that only legitimate, documented properties will be included, urging states to meet the six-month deadline for uploading information. The portal aims for transparency and efficiency, though its legal validity faces challenges.