Mehbooba Mufti advocated for the resumption of sporting ties between India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions following recent events, including the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. She emphasized that continuous conflict hinders India's progress in addressing unemployment and poverty.
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India is anticipated to experience above-normal rainfall during the latter half of the monsoon season, specifically in August and September, according to the IMD. While most regions are expected to receive normal rainfall in August, September is projected to have above-normal rainfall. This forecast is crucial for India's agriculture sector and water resources.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reaffirmed the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) following a thorough verification exercise in Maharashtra. Conducted across ten assembly constituencies after applications from losing candidates in the 2024 elections, the process confirmed no discrepancies between EVM results and VVPAT slips.
Donald Trump suggested Russia could avoid Ukraine war sanctions by reaching a deal to end the conflict, lamenting the high number of casualties on both sides. He also reiterated his claim of brokering peace between India and Pakistan, a statement previously denied by Indian officials.
BJP leaders strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi's remarks on the Indian economy, calling him delusional and ignorant for echoing Donald Trump's "dead economy" jibe. They highlighted India's economic growth and questioned Gandhi's investments in the same economy he criticizes. BJP leaders accused him of making anti-India statements and damaging his political credibility.
The Indian government is in talks with China to revive border trade via Lipulekh, Shipki La, and Nathu La passes, which halted in 2020 due to the pandemic, according to Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh. These routes, established through bilateral agreements, are crucial for trade. Amid improving India-China relations, Prime Minister Modi is expected to attend the SCO summit in China.
Authors have criticized the Jammu and Kashmir home department's decision to ban 25 books. The banned books allegedly glorified terrorism and incited violence. Angana Chatterjee described the ban as a warning against free speech. Sumantra Bose stated his work aimed to identify pathways to peace. David Devadas called the ban regrettable and defended his book's advocacy for peace and dialogue.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Varanasi visit, dedicated Operation Sindoor's success to Lord Vishwanath, highlighting India's firm stance against terrorism. He criticized opposition parties for questioning the operation's timing and mourning the destruction of terrorist bases in Pakistan. Modi emphasized India's growing defense capabilities, noting that missiles made in Uttar Pradesh will deter future Pakistani misadventures.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India. The visit is likely to occur by the end of 2025. Rahul Gandhi raised concerns about election integrity. He alleged voter fraud and accused the Election Commission of partiality. NDA leaders held a meeting to discuss the Vice-Presidential election.
Punjab government is set to launch a drug prevention curriculum in government schools for grades 9-12, starting August 1. Developed with guidance from Prof. Abhijit Banerjee, the program aims to educate students about drug risks and decision-making. Pilot results showed positive attitude changes, complementing the state's ongoing enforcement efforts against drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a new residential complex for Members of Parliament on Baba Kharak Singh Marg next week. The complex features 184 large flats, each with five bedrooms and ample office space, exceeding the size of Type-VIII bungalows.