Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's enthusiastic message from space marked India's return to space exploration after 40 years, orbiting Earth at 7.5km/sec. Aboard the Dragon Capsule "Grace," the Ax-4 mission, including commander Peggy Whitson, is en route to the ISS, emphasizing international collaboration and scientific advancement. The mission involves precise orbital maneuvers and docking procedures before the crew begins conducting experiments.
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Following India's shocking Test defeat against England, head coach Gautam Gambhir downplayed individual achievements, despite centuries from Rishabh Pant and others. He emphasised the team's failure to defend a massive score, highlighting England's record chase led by Ben Duckett. Fast bowler Harshit Rana has been released from the squad as injury concerns eased.
President Trump will decide within two weeks whether the US will join Israel's military actions against Iran, amidst ongoing speculation. He acknowledged a 'substantial' chance for negotiations to peacefully resolve the conflict. This declaration offers a diplomatic window, despite Trump's earlier strong statements.
NASA reports sunspot region 4114 unleashed 2025's most powerful X1.2-class solar flare on June 17, causing widespread shortwave radio blackouts, especially over the Pacific, including Hawaii. Frequencies below 25 MHz were disrupted, affecting aviators and ham radio operators. Although no coronal mass ejection accompanied it, the flare's intensity disturbed Earth's ionosphere.
Israel has openly acknowledged its military campaign targeting Iran's nuclear program, which involved the assassination of at least 14 senior Iranian nuclear scientists. According to Israeli officials, these individuals were directly involved in the creation and production of nuclear weapons.
England's 'Bazball' approach faces its ultimate test in a five-Test series against India. While the aggressive strategy has brought success, vulnerabilities remain, including over-reliance on Joe Root, an inexperienced bowling attack post-Anderson and Broad, and a still-unsettled spin department. India's seasoned players and diverse attack will probe these weaknesses, questioning whether England can adapt when their high-risk philosophy is challenged.
US President Donald Trump claimed credit for preventing a war between India and Pakistan, citing the influence of Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir. Trump stated he thanked Munir for "ending" the conflict. He also mentioned ongoing trade deal discussions with both India and Pakistan, following recent talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Following the Air India Flight 171 crash on June 12, authorities have identified and released the bodies of 38 victims to their families, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani. DNA matching is ongoing to identify remaining victims, with 86 passengers and crew matched by Sunday evening.
Amid escalating conflict, Israel continues strikes in Iran, prompting US consideration of military action. US President Trump hints at potential US involvement and reveals Iran's interest in talks. Russia offers mediation. India, under Operation Sindhu, evacuates 110 Indian nationals from Iran. Casualties in Iran rise to 639, according to Human Rights Activists, while Supreme Leader Khamenei vows no surrender.
Central government employees under the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) will now receive retirement and death gratuity benefits akin to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
The Axiom-4 mission, carrying Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and three international crewmates, successfully launched to the International Space Station after delays. Shukla, as pilot, marks a significant step for India in space exploration. The crew will conduct over 60 science experiments during their two-week stay, contributing to research in various fields before returning to Earth.