The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared the routes to the Shri Amarnath shrine no-fly zones from July 1 to August 10, prohibiting helicopter services for pilgrims this year. This decision, based on Union home ministry recommendations, aims to bolster security for the annual pilgrimage commencing on July 3. Restrictions exclude medical evacuations and security surveillance.
Related news
SpaceX is targeting June 11 for the Ax-4 mission launch, closely monitoring weather conditions with a slight increase in probability violation. Technical snags, including a liquid oxygen leak and a thrust vector control issue, have been resolved. The mission features a new, improved Dragon capsule with enhanced systems and marks the second flight for the Falcon-9 booster.
Forsyth’s life was as compelling as his fiction: a Royal Air Force pilot, a war reporter censored by the BBC, an MI6 asset, and a bestselling novelist whose understanding of realpolitik was sharp enough to worry governments. He wrote thrillers, yes—but thrillers with classified undertones.
A recent study reveals that the Drang Drung Glacier in Ladakh, the largest in the Zanskar range, is receding at an average rate of 1 meter per year between 2021 and 2023. Led by IIT Indore, the research highlights the formation of a growing proglacial lake due to the glacier's retreat
A simple 'Sitting-Rising Test' (SRT), involving sitting and standing without support, can indicate cardiovascular health and longevity, says scientists. A study in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that individuals with low SRT scores faced a significantly higher risk of mortality from heart issues. The test assesses strength, balance, and flexibility, reflecting overall functional fitness.
The Bombay High Court has criticized the misuse of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, citing frivolous applications like one seeking the number of samosas served daily in a government office. Hearing a PIL regarding delays in disposing of second appeals, the court noted the Act's beneficial purpose is being undermined.
Vikram Misri and Sun Weidong met in New Delhi to improve India-China relations. They focused on people-centric engagements and resuming direct flights. Progress since their last meeting in Beijing was reviewed. Misri appreciated China's help in restarting the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. Discussions included sharing hydrological data on trans-border rivers. Both sides aimed to ease visa procedures and promote exchanges.
Following a fatal helicopter crash near Guptkashi that claimed seven lives, the civil aviation ministry has suspended Aryan Aviation's Char Dham Yatra operations. The Uttarakhand government has also temporarily halted helicopter services on the route and initiated a high-level investigation. The tragic incident, involving a private chopper returning from Kedarnath, prompted the Uttarakhand government to suspend all helicopter services on the Char Dham Yatra route for two days.
Donald Trump claimed his decision to deploy troops in Los Angeles prevented chaos. He criticised California's leadership and permitting delays. Protests erupted over deportation policies. National Guard and Marines were deployed. State officials opposed federal intervention. A lawsuit was filed against the Trump administration. Mayor Karen Bass expressed confusion over the Marines' deployment. Protests continue in other cities as well.
Digvesh Rathi, the mystery spinner who rose to prominence with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, continues to impress. A video surfaced showing Rathi achieving a remarkable feat in a local T20 match, claiming five wickets in five balls. His impressive performance, featuring deceptive googlies, further solidifies his reputation as a talent to watch.
June 20th continues to be a significant date for Indian Test debuts as Sai Sudharsan received his Test Cap No. 317 against England at Headingley. Following in the footsteps of Dravid, Ganguly, and Kohli, Sudharsan, the IPL 2025 Orange Cap winner, steps into a rebuilding Indian side at No. 3.