Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's absence from the 10th Niti Aayog meeting, along with other opposition-ruled states, has sparked political speculation, especially before PM Modi's Bihar visit. The meeting, focused on 'Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047', saw PM Modi advocating for Centre-state collaboration and future-ready cities. While some leaders skipped, PM Modi emphasized 'Team India' for development and promoted tourism.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the opposition for demanding proof of military operations. He referenced Operation Sindoor and past strikes. Modi stated that terrorist actions are a planned war strategy by Pakistan. Congress leaders questioned why terrorists like Hafiz Saeed escaped. Rahul Gandhi accused the government of informing Pakistan before Operation Sindoor.
In a historic moment, young BSF women personnel, led by Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari, fiercely defended forward posts in J&K's Akhnoor sector during Operation Sindoor. They engaged Pakistani forces with heavy retaliatory fire for three days, compelling them to retreat. This marked a significant instance of women in active combat roles, showcasing their capabilities on par with their male counterparts.
In Dakshina Kannada, several Muslim Congress functionaries resigned, citing government negligence and failure to protect the community following revenge killings, including the murder of a mosque secretary.
In May, relentless shelling in Poonch near the LoC claimed 14 civilian lives and wounded over 65, leaving a trail of devastation and fear. Homes were destroyed, families displaced, and a seminary was attacked, resulting in casualties and false accusations against a religious teacher. While authorities offered support, the community grapples with loss, trauma, and lasting scars.
Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), known for 'Mysore Sandal' soap, has appointed Bollywood actor Tamannaah Bhatia as its brand ambassador for Rs 6.2 crore, aiming to expand its national market presence. This decision, however, has sparked controversy, with some questioning the choice over local Kannada actresses.
President Trump has postponed the imposition of a 50% tariff on European Union goods until July 9, 2025, following a discussion with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who pledged to engage in serious negotiations. Trump cited von der Leyen's commitment as the reason for granting the extension, aiming to facilitate a potential trade agreement.
The central government has sanctioned the deployment of 581 CAPF companies, approximately 58,000 personnel, to safeguard the Amarnath Yatra, commencing on July 3. This pilgrimage marks the first significant crowd-gathering event in Jammu & Kashmir since the Pahalgam attack. Besides the 156 companies already stationed, an additional 425 companies are being dispatched to the Union Territory to ensure security.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has voiced strong concerns over persistent delays in India's defence projects, urging accountability and timely delivery. He criticised unrealistic timelines in contracts and the defence forces' reluctance to address underperformance. In a rare moment of candour, the Air Chief also touched upon the culture of restraint within the defence forces, saying the services have often refrained from calling out underperformance explicitly.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former WFI chief, declared his vindication after a Delhi court accepted a closure report in a Pocso case against him. Speaking in Ayodhya, where he received a grand welcome, Singh asserted his faith in the judiciary and called for measures to prevent the misuse of sexual harassment laws, emphasizing that truth prevails.
Reports indicate Elon Musk's drug consumption exceeds occasional use. He allegedly uses stimulants like Adderall, Ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms. Sources claim Musk frequently uses ketamine, sometimes daily, mixing it with other drugs. Musk admits to prescribed ketamine for depression, taking it occasionally. He acknowledges ketamine's effect on his bladder. The FDA warns about ketamine's risks, including addiction and bladder problems.