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One Market, Two Models: How Vistara-Enhanced Air India Aims to Compete with Budget Giant IndiGo

November 11, 2024, 1:47 pm

The upcoming merger of Vistara with Air India marks a pivotal shift in India’s aviation industry, setting the stage for a fierce competition between full-service luxury offerings and budget-friendly options as IndiGo dominates the low-cost market.

On November 12, 2024, Vistara, a premium airline co-owned by Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, will merge with Air India, also under Tata ownership. This merger, two years in planning, will make Air India India’s sole full-service airline, concluding the era of multiple premium carriers.

The merger coincides with rapid growth in India’s aviation sector. According to a report by OAG, India secured its position as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market in May 2024, surpassing Brazil and Indonesia. Dominated by IndiGo and Air India, the industry boasts over 1,000 aircraft on order and commands nearly 90% of the domestic seating capacity. Low-cost carriers, like IndiGo, account for 78.4% of India’s domestic capacity, driving this growth at an annual rate of 6.9%, the highest globally among top aviation markets.

### The Evolution of Indian Full-Service Carriers
India’s aviation landscape has evolved significantly. Traditionally dominated by full-service carriers offering luxury amenities, the market shifted after the decline of Kingfisher Airlines and Air Sahara’s merger with Jet Airways. These events highlighted the challenges of sustaining full-service operations in a cost-sensitive market. The 2012 policy shift, allowing foreign investment, introduced players like Vistara and AirAsia India, heightening competition.

Since its inception in 2015, Vistara, with Singapore Airlines backing, has catered to premium domestic travelers. This merger now allows Tata Group, which acquired Air India in 2021, to consolidate resources, expand Air India’s network, and strengthen its market position. Integrating Vistara’s high standards with Air India’s offerings will be critical to the merger’s success. Notably, Singapore Airlines’ 25.1% stake in the new entity provides additional resources and expertise, especially for international route management.

### Rise of Budget Airlines
IndiGo leads the booming low-cost market, offering affordable, efficient travel options that have made it the dominant airline in India. The success of IndiGo and similar carriers reflects the high demand for budget travel, creating challenges for full-service airlines to remain profitable.

This merger between Vistara and Air India aims to fortify Air India as India’s leading full-service airline. Meanwhile, budget carriers are bridging the gap with premium offerings, as seen with IndiGo’s introduction of business-class services like IndiGoStretch, catering to the demand for affordable luxury. If successful, IndiGo’s move into premium services could challenge Air India’s position in the luxury market.

### The Future of Air India
Tata Group’s vision for Air India extends beyond expanding its fleet, now projected at 210 aircraft with 470 more on order. Addressing operational and service-related issues within Air India is crucial for the airline to compete globally. Leveraging Singapore Airlines’ expertise should enhance Air India’s international reach, positioning it as a competitive force on the world stage.

### Challenges Ahead
Post-merger, managing customer expectations will be a key challenge. Vistara’s loyal customer base, accustomed to premium services, may worry about potential service changes. Additionally, heightened competition with IndiGo will keep both airlines vying for market share, intensifying rivalry in India’s dynamic aviation landscape.

Kamala Harris Raises $200 Million In First Week As Presidential Candidate

July 28, 2024, 6:54 pm

US Vice President Kamala Harris’s election campaign announced on Sunday that it has raised $200 million and signed up 170,000 new volunteers in the week since she became a presidential candidate. This surge in support follows President Joe Biden’s decision to end his reelection bid and endorse Harris for the upcoming November election against Republican former President Donald Trump.

“In the week since we got started, @KamalaHarris has raised $200 million dollars. 66% of that is from new donors. We’ve signed up 170,000 new volunteers,” Harris’ deputy campaign manager, Rob Flaherty, posted on X.

Harris has secured the backing of a majority of delegates to the Democratic National Convention, positioning her to become the party’s nominee for president next month. Biden withdrew from the race amid concerns about his age and health following a lackluster debate performance against Trump in late June. He has pledged to remain in office until the end of his term on January 20, 2025.

Harris, the first Black woman and first Asian American to serve as vice president, raised her first $100 million within 36 hours of Biden’s announcement, according to her office. Her campaign has been revitalized, overcoming earlier doubts about Biden’s prospects against Trump and his capacity to govern if re-elected.

Mitch Landrieu, a campaign co-chair, described Harris’s week as one of the most successful in recent political history. “This is going to be a very close race,” he said in an interview on MSNBC.

The Harris campaign’s rapid fundraising and volunteer mobilization underscore the enthusiasm and momentum behind her bid for the White House.

UK Halts Efforts To Challenge ICC Jurisdiction Over Arrest Warrants For Israeli Leaders

July 26, 2024, 5:48 pm

United Kingdom has decided not to pursue efforts to question the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) jurisdiction to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. This decision comes after the ICC’s prosecutor requested warrants in May for Netanyahu, Gallant, and three Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes.

In June, court documents revealed that the UK, an ICC member state, sought to provide written observations on whether “the court can exercise jurisdiction over Israeli nationals, in circumstances where Palestine cannot exercise criminal jurisdiction over Israeli nationals under the Oslo Accords.” However, the new Labour government, elected in July, has decided not to proceed with the proposal.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson stated, “On the ICC submission… I can confirm the government will not be pursuing (the proposal) in line with our long-standing position that this is a matter for the court to decide on.”

The ICC, the world’s first permanent international war crimes court, steps in only when a state is unwilling or unable to prosecute war crimes itself. Israel, supported by its main ally, the United States, is not a member of the ICC, and has stated that alleged war crimes in Gaza are being investigated domestically.

Member states of the ICC are obliged to arrest individuals with warrants on their territory, but past cases, such as that of Sudanese former President Omar Bashir, have shown that compliance is not always guaranteed. If warrants are issued against Israeli leaders, many European Union countries, which are ICC members, could face significant diplomatic challenges.

Indian Table Tennis Faces Tough Start at Paris 2024 Olympics

July 25, 2024, 11:50 am

The Indian table tennis team faces a tough start at the Paris Olympics 2024. In the men’s team event, they’ll meet defending champions China in the round of 16. This marks India’s first-ever qualification for this event at the Olympics.

Meanwhile, the women’s team will play against Romania in their round of 16 match. If they advance, they could meet Germany, the silver medalists from Rio 2016.

In women’s singles, India’s top player Manika Batra will begin against 18-year-old Anna Hursey from Great Britain. Manika, ranked 28th globally, has competed in two Olympics before this. It will be Anna’s first Olympic appearance.

Sreeja Akula, seeded 16th in women’s singles, will start her campaign against Christina Kallberg of Sweden. Christina had an early exit in Tokyo 2020.

For the men’s singles, veteran Achanta Sharath Kamal will face Deni Kozul of Slovenia, aiming for a strong start in his fifth Olympic appearance. Harmeet Desai will begin with a match against Zaid Abo Yaman of Jordan in the preliminary rounds.

The table tennis events will take place from July 27 to August 10 at the South Paris Arena during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

New Zealand Announces 2024-25 Home Cricket Schedule

July 17, 2024, 12:54 pm

Christchurch, July 17 – New Zealand has announced its 2024-25 home international cricket schedule, featuring visits from England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

The season kicks off with the ICC World Test Championship series against England at the end of this year, followed by white-ball series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

The three-match Test series against England begins in Christchurch on November 28. Next, the New Zealand men’s team will play Sri Lanka in three T20Is and three ODIs from December 28 to January 11.

In February, the BlackCaps will travel to Pakistan for a tri-series with the hosts and South Africa before starting their ICC Champions Trophy campaign. They will then return home for five T20Is and three ODIs against Pakistan from March 16 to April 5.

The New Zealand women’s team will also be busy, playing a three-match ODI series against Australia at the Cello Basin Reserve from December 19 to 23. They will later host a multi-format tour by Sri Lanka from March 4 to 18, followed by a three-match T20I series against the top-ranked Australians from March 21 to 26. Five of the women’s T20Is will be played as double-headers with the men’s T20I series against Pakistan.

New Zealand Men’s Schedule:

Test Series vs. England:
– First Test: November 28-December 2, Christchurch
– Second Test: December 6-10, Wellington
– Third Test: December 14-18, Hamilton

T20I and ODI Series vs. Sri Lanka:
– First T20I: December 28, Tauranga
– Second T20I: December 30, Tauranga
– Third T20I: January 2, Nelson
– First ODI: January 5, Wellington
– Second ODI: January 8, Hamilton
– Third ODI: January 11, Auckland

T20I and ODI Series vs. Pakistan:
– First T20I: March 16, Christchurch
– Second T20I: March 18, Dunedin
– Third T20I: March 21, Auckland
– Fourth T20I: March 23, Tauranga
– Fifth T20I: March 26, Wellington
– First ODI: March 29, Napier
– Second ODI: April 2, Hamilton
– Third ODI: April 5, Tauranga

New Zealand Women’s Schedule:

ODI Series vs. Australia:
– First ODI: December 19, Wellington
– Second ODI: December 21, Wellington
– Third ODI: December 23, Wellington

ODI and T20I Series vs. Sri Lanka:
– First ODI: March 4, Napier
– Second ODI: March 7, Nelson
– Third ODI: March 9, Nelson
– First T20I: March 14, Christchurch
– Second T20I: March 16, Christchurch
– Third T20I: March 18, Christchurch

T20I Series vs. Australia:
– First T20I: March 21, Auckland
– Second T20I: March 23, Tauranga
– Third T20I: March 26, Wellington

WhatsApp Introduces Favorite Contacts Feature for Easy Access in Chats and Calls

July 17, 2024, 10:53 am

WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that lets users quickly access their favorite contacts and groups from both the chats and calls tabs. This feature is starting to roll out today and will be available to everyone in the coming weeks. Now, whether it’s your family group or best friend, the contacts you mark as ‘favorites’ will be the same in both your chats and calls tabs, making it easy to speed dial them from the calls tab.

How to add favorites:
– From the Chats Screen: Select the ‘favorites’ filter and choose your contacts or groups.
– From the Calls Tab: Tap ‘Add favorite’ and select your contacts or groups.
– From Settings: Go to Settings > Favorites > Add to Favorites. You can also reorder them anytime here.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared a post on his WhatsApp Channel with a screenshot of his own call list and favorites. His wife Priscilla, his mom, and dad were marked as favorites. These favorites will be pinned at the top of the ‘recents’ list.

Zuckerberg said in his post, “Now you can add people and groups to your ‘favorites’ to appear at the top of your calls tab and as a filter for your chats on WhatsApp.” He also added, “Mom, Dad, and Cilla naturally made the cut.”

From Gurdaspur To Glorious: Rise Of Nimrat Khaira

July 15, 2024, 4:02 pm

Nimratpal Khaira also known as Nimrat Khaira born on August 8, 1992, in Batala, Gurdaspur in a Punjabi household, started her singing journey at the age of 7 and completed her schooling from D.A.V school. She graduated in Biotechnology from H.M.V Girls College, Jalandhar and music from Saraswati Music College under the guidance of Karminder Singh.

Singing Journey

Nimrat won the title ‘Voice Of Punjab S-3’ in 2012 and debuted with a duet song ‘Rab Karke’ featuring Nishawn Bhullar on 24 September 2015. After achieving unstoppable success, she released two blockbuster songs, ‘Ishq Kacheri’ and ‘Sp De Rank Wargi,’ one after the other in 2016. Moreover, the singer continued her success with songs like ‘Salute Wajde’ in 2016. In 2017, she launched many hit singles, such as ‘Rohab Rakhdi’, ‘Dubai Wale Sheikh’ and ‘Suit’. The singer also won the Best Female Vocalist award for her duo ‘Dubai Wale Sheikh’ from Manje Bistre at the Brit Asia Awards. Her song ‘Suit’ grabbed a post in the top 20 in ‘UK ASIAN CHART’

Challenges Faced

Deep Jandu is claimed to have copied the music in the song ‘Designer,’ produced by him and sung by Nimrat Khaira, from the foreign composer, Zwirek. The originally composed music led to the re-addition of the song on YouTube after it was taken down due to copyright claims.

Film Career

Khaira started her film career in 2017 with Lahoriye. The audience loved and appreciated her performance in the film. She was also nominated for different Award Ceremonies.

Her next film ‘Afsar’, was released in October 2015 and the film marks Debut of her being a lead actress. She then focused on her singing career and took a long break from the film industry. Afterwards, her film ‘Jodi’, which was written and directed by Amberdeep Singh, was released in 2023. In the film, she is co-starring Diljit Dosanjh. It is her second collaboration with Singh and Rhythm Boyz Entertainment after ‘Lahoriye’.

Israel Faces West Nile Fever Outbreak: 31 Deaths Reported

July 15, 2024, 12:08 pm

West Nile Fever is a mosquito-borne illness caused by the West Nile Virus. According to Israel’s health ministry, the high number of cases is due to warmer and more humid weather, which is favorable for mosquitoes. Read on to learn about the complications of West Nile Fever.

Israel Reports 31 Deaths Due To West Nile Fever

Health authorities in Israel have reported 31 deaths from West Nile fever since an outbreak began in early May. Recently, 12 new fatalities were confirmed, bringing the total number of cases to 405, close to the record high of 425 cases in the year 2000.

The Ministry of Health attributes the high number of cases to warmer and more humid weather, which promotes mosquito activity. Most of the infected individuals are elderly, aged 70 and above, although children have also been diagnosed with the virus.

While most human infections cause no or mild cold-like symptoms, some people develop severe illnesses affecting the central nervous system. Earlier this week, Israel’s chief veterinary officer, Tamir Goshen, reported that 159 birds were found infected with the virus in the last two months, compared to only three bird infections in the entire year of 2023.

What Is West Nile Fever?

West Nile Fever is spread through mosquito bites and is caused by the West Nile Virus. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the virus can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses, and some other mammals.

Typically, West Nile virus does not cause any symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. However, in severe cases, it can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), and inflammation of the brain and its surrounding membrane (meningoencephalitis), all of which can be fatal.

Complications of West Nile Fever

Neurological Complications
West Nile fever can lead to neuroinvasive disease, affecting the central nervous system. This can cause encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. Encephalitis causes inflammation of the brain, leading to symptoms like confusion, seizures, and muscle weakness. Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, resulting in headaches, neck stiffness, and fever. Acute flaccid paralysis is similar to polio, causing sudden muscle weakness and loss of reflexes.

Chronic Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
Patients may experience prolonged fatigue and muscle weakness even after the acute phase. This syndrome can last for weeks or months, impacting one’s quality of life by reducing physical and mental stamina.

Eye Complications
West Nile virus can cause eye problems, such as chorioretinitis and optic neuritis. Chorioretinitis, inflammation of the retina and choroid, leads to blurred vision, floaters, and even vision loss. Optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, causes pain and temporary vision loss, and can potentially lead to permanent damage if untreated.

Cardiovascular Problems
The virus can also affect the heart, leading to myocarditis, which is the inflammation of the heart muscle. Myocarditis can result in chest pain, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and even heart failure in severe cases.

Renal Complications
Although rare, West Nile virus can cause nephritis, inflammation of the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function, blood in the urine (hematuria), and protein in the urine (proteinuria).

France Evicts Thousands of Migrants from Paris Ahead of 2024 Olympics

July 12, 2024, 3:46 pm

France Evicts Thousands of Migrants from Paris Ahead of 2024 Olympics. The government, led by President Emmanuel Macron, has begun evicting thousands of homeless migrants from the capital ahead of the Olympics, scheduled between July 26 and August 11, according to a New York Times report on Thursday.

Authorities are directing mostly single male immigrants to board buses to cities like Lyon or Marseille, with assurances of housing upon arrival. However, many have ended up on unfamiliar streets without the promised accommodations or facing potential deportation. One immigrant, evicted from an abandoned cement factory near the Olympic Village, told The New York Times, “We were expelled because of the Olympic Games.” Another immigrant from the Central African Republic mentioned, “They give you a random ticket. If it’s a ticket to Orleans, you go to Orleans.”

The French government had not commented on the evictions at the time of the report’s publication.

In April, police conducted a large-scale eviction at France’s largest squat in southern Paris, clearing a makeshift camp at an abandoned bus company headquarters in Vitry-sur-Seine. This camp had housed around 450 migrants. Images of the eviction spread across social media, showing about 300 people, including young men and several women with children, calmly leaving the camp with their belongings.

France is home to about 7 million immigrants, making up approximately 10.3 percent of the population, with numbers steadily rising since 2000. Immigration reportedly costs France 40 billion euros annually, though experts argue that the true costs are difficult to calculate.

Delhi Gym Owner Out on Bail Murdered by Assailants in Bhajanpura

July 12, 2024, 3:16 pm

A gym owner in Delhi, Sumit aka Prem Chaudhary, who was previously convicted of attempted murder and out on bail, was allegedly murdered by three to four men in Bhajanpura on Wednesday night. The police reported that the attackers are currently on the run.

Sumit, 28, lived with his wife and three-year-old son in Gamri Extension, Bhajanpura. He suffered over 15 stab wounds all over his body. Besides running a gym, Sumit also operated a tour and travel business.

On the night of July 10, around 11:30 pm, Sumit was sitting outside his house when he got into an argument with the assailants. The argument escalated, and one of the men pulled out a knife, stabbing Sumit in the face, neck, chest, and abdomen, inflicting around 17 wounds.

Sumit was rushed to Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital in Shastri Park, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

A police official from Bhajanpura police station stated that the motive for the attack and the nature of the argument are still unclear. The police are scanning CCTV footage to identify and capture the suspects. Sumit had an attempted murder case registered against him at Bhajanpura police station.

South Korean YouTuber Tzuyang Opens Up About Dating Violence, Sparks National Debate

July 11, 2024, 3:24 pm

South Korean YouTuber Tzuyang revealed on Thursday that she had been a victim of dating violence at the hands of her former boyfriend. Tzuyang, known for her popular “mukbang” videos where she eats large amounts of food, shared that her ex-boyfriend physically abused her and tried to extort a significant amount of money from her.

According to Tzuyang’s lawyers, criminal cases were filed against her former boyfriend, but these were closed after he tragically took his own life. During a livestream that garnered over 2 million views, Tzuyang disclosed details of the abuse, stating that her ex-boyfriend hit her body to avoid leaving visible marks on her face. She also accused him of sharing private information about her life with other YouTubers.

This revelation has sparked a debate in South Korea about the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence. In 2023 alone, nearly 14,000 people were charged with dating violence, marking a significant rise from previous years. Activists are urging lawmakers to implement stricter punishments and improve protections for victims in light of these alarming trends.

Five Soldiers Martyred in Kathua ; Terrorists Force Local Villagers To Cook for Them at Gunpoint

July 11, 2024, 12:42 pm

In Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists recently ambushed an Army convoy, compelling local villagers at gunpoint to cook for them before the assault. The militants, equipped with body cameras, also attempted to seize weapons from the Army personnel. Despite sustaining injuries, the brave soldiers managed to thwart the terrorists’ deadly plans.

The attack occurred on a secluded road close to Badnota village, resulting in the tragic loss of five Army personnel while leaving several others injured. Shockingly, this incident marks the fifth terrorist strike in the Jammu region in just a month, highlighting a concerning escalation in violence.

In response, security agencies have ramped up their investigative efforts, detaining more than 20 suspects for questioning. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has vowed justice for the fallen soldiers, underscoring their unwavering dedication to upholding peace in the region.

This tragic event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in combating terrorism in the region, prompting renewed efforts to ensure the safety and security of civilians and military personnel alike.

Father Charged with Murder After Sydney House Fire Kills Three Children

July 11, 2024, 12:34 pm

Australian police have charged a 28-year-old father with murder after a tragic house fire in Sydney’s west killed three children, including a five-month-old girl. According to police, the man allegedly started the fire while his partner and her seven children were inside. He reportedly locked the doors, preventing them from escaping.

The man, who has not been named, is under police guard in the hospital. He faces charges including three counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder, and intentionally endangering life by destroying property. The case is being treated as a domestic-related homicide, described by police as one of the worst instances of a parent allegedly killing their own children in recent history in New South Wales.

Emergency services responded to the fire in Lalor Park, about 35 km west of Sydney’s center, early on Sunday morning. Two boys aged two and six, and a five-month-old girl lost their lives in the fire. The victims have yet to be formally identified. A 29-year-old woman and five other children were hospitalized, with the woman later discharged and the children reported to be in stable condition.

Mumbai BMW Hit-and Run: Suspect Mihir Shah Made 40 Calls to Girlfriend After Incident

July 11, 2024, 12:27 pm

Mihir Shah, the main suspect in the Mumbai BMW hit-and-run case, made 40 calls to his girlfriend after crashing into a woman with his luxury car in Worli on July 7. Following the incident, instead of surrendering to the police, he traveled across different places in Maharashtra and stayed hidden in resorts.

When his girlfriend learned about the accident, she contacted his sister Pooja, who picked him up from Goregaon and took him back to their home in Borivali. From there, Mihir Shah, accompanied by three family members and his friend Avdeep, went to resorts in Thane and Murbad. Later, they moved to Shahapur before eventually ending up at a resort in Virar. It was here that the police located him after tracking Avdeep’s briefly switched-on phone.

Before reaching Virar, Mihir Shah had traveled through Nashik, Igatpuri, Ganeshpuri, and Thane. During his escape, he had hidden his mobile phone, which the police are trying to locate. Police also recovered 12 mobile phones from his friends and family members during the investigation.

Mihir Shah, the son of Shiv Sena leader Rajesh Shah, admitted to driving the BMW during the accident but denied being intoxicated. The collision occurred when his car hit a two-wheeler from behind in Worli, resulting in the death of Kaveri Nakhwa (45) who was riding pillion, while her husband Pradeep survived with injuries. Mihir Shah has been remanded in police custody until July 16.

Assam Introduces 180-Day Child Adoption Leave for Female Employees

July 11, 2024, 12:23 pm

The Assam government recently decided to implement a new policy granting 180 days of Child Adoption Leave to female employees across all state departments. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that this decision aligns with Rule 43-B of the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972. The aim is to ensure that female employees who adopt children under the age of one can provide them with proper care and support. The state cabinet approved this measure to benefit women adopting young children, emphasizing the importance of nurturing their adopted children during their formative early months.

Meanwhile, in a recent Supreme Court hearing on adoption rules, Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati highlighted a gap between registration and adoption processes in India. She reported that from 2021 to 2023, 19,424 adoptions occurred under the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act (HAMA), with 4,029 children adopted in 2023-24 through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA). The Supreme Court has directed 13 Indian states and Union territories, including Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Arunachal Pradesh, to establish specialized adoption agencies by August 30, in response to previous court orders.

‘There has never been any such announcement’ Russia Clarifies Indian Recruits for Commercial Reasons

July 11, 2024, 11:56 am

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about Indians being misled into joining the Russian Army, Moscow clarified that these recruitments were purely commercial and that they did not want Indians in their army. A Russian diplomat, quoted by news agency PTI, said, “They are there purely for commercial reasons and we did not want to recruit them.”

Several Indians were lured to Russia with promises of well-paying jobs but ended up joining the Russian Army to fight against Ukraine. Since the war began in February 2022, at least four Indian nationals have been killed.

During his two-day visit to Moscow, PM Modi discussed this issue informally with President Vladimir Putin. Following their talks, Moscow agreed to discharge and facilitate the return of all Indians recruited as support staff in the Russian Army. Russia’s Charge d’affaires, Roman Babushkin, stated that Moscow never intended for Indians to be part of its Army and emphasized that their numbers are insignificant in the larger conflict.

“We have never wanted Indians in the Russian Army. There has never been any such announcement from Russian authorities,” Babushkin said.

He explained that most Indians were recruited under a commercial framework, seeking financial opportunities. He added that the number of Indians involved, whether 50, 60, or 100, is insignificant in the larger conflict context and reiterated that they were there for commercial reasons, not because Russia sought to recruit them.

Babushkin also mentioned that many of the Indians working as support staff did so illegally without the appropriate visas, having entered Russia on tourist visas.

When asked about compensation and Russian citizenship for the families of those killed, Babushkin said it “should happen anyway as per the contractual obligations.”

So far, at least four Indians have been killed, with about 35–50 recruits believed to be in the Russian Army. Ten have been allowed to return.

Following these deaths, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) demanded a verified stop to further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, stating that such activities do not align with the partnership between India and Russia.

This issue was a top priority for PM Modi during his Moscow visit.

Delhi Police’s New Law to Tackle Vehicle Theft

July 9, 2024, 4:37 pm

NEW DELHI: In the past week, Delhi Police has registered over 200 FIRs under a new section in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita specifically for thefts who deals with vehicles, the punishment for vehicle theft now increased to seven years, police officers are acting quickly to implement it. They visit the theft location immediately after the crime is reported, film the scene, and upload their reports on the police app as a e-pramaan.

Last week, it was reported that vehicle theft FIRs would be filed under Section 305-B of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Previously, vehicle theft was treated as ‘theft’ under Section 379 of the Indian Penal Code, which had a maximum punishment of three years. A few years back, police launched an app for registering vehicle theft cases as E-FIRs, allowing people to get an unfound report within about 30 days to claim insurance. However, this system stopped immediate investigations, leading to rise in theft cases.

With the help of new laws in place, police are visiting theft locations right away, filming the crime scene, and registering cases as E-FIRs. The SHO assigns investigating officers at the police station level, which is expected to improve results on the ground. In the beginning, some vehicle theft cases were mistakenly registered under Section 303 (general theft), but this has been corrected, and now such cases are being filed under Section 305-B.

Each district has filed around 12-15 FIRs in the past week. From July 1 to July 7, 113 cases were registered in the North East, East, and Shahdara districts. The West district reported 17 cases, Southwest 16, South 13, Outer North 13, and North eight. Other districts in the city reported over 50 cases in total.

An officer mentioned that videography is mandatory not only at the crime scene but also during the search of suspects and seizure of vehicles. “The police team will film the entire process of checking the vehicle and the driver. This ensures that the accused cannot claim that the evidence was planted or tampered with. We have conducted multiple training sessions for the cops, especially those working night shifts, on videography,” the officer added.

Russian Artists Practice Dandiya to Welcome PM Modi in Moscow

July 9, 2024, 3:20 pm

A group of Russian artists were seen practicing a ‘dandiya’ a gujrati dance style to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Moscow on Monday. A video shared by news agency PTI showed the artists, rehearsing dandiya steps under the guidance of a dance instructor in the Russian capital.

These artists will greet PM Modi when he arrives in Moscow. A Women who is also participating is bhangra said that, “Our main aim is to strengthen cultural between India and Russia by promoting Indian culture and festivals. Sometimes we travel to India to exchange culture between our countries. We are happy that Prime Minister Modi is coming; our relations will become stronger. It is a great occasion that makes us happy,” said Milana, one of the dance performers. An another dance performer named Nataila said that “It is a very big event that Prime Minister Modi is coming here. We have been preparing for this event for many days, and we will be really happy to see him. I have learned a little bit of Hindi, so I can say that I will be happy to meet PM Modi.”

Dandiya is a traditional folk dance from the Indian state of Gujarat, usually performed during the Navratri festival that is a nine-night celebration dedicated to the goddess Durga. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been welcomed by other world leaders with the performances of Garba, another traditional dance from Gujarat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi went on on a high-profile visit to Russia on Monday to hold summit talks with President Vladimir Putin amid the conflict in Ukraine. This is Modi’s first trip to Russia since 2019 and the first since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

Anant And Radhika’ Wedding: Salman Khan Leaves After Attending Haldi Ceremony

July 9, 2024, 11:55 am

Bollywood’s one of the most eligible bachelor, Salman Khan, gave fans a glimpse of himself with haldi on his face and hope in his eyes, and now his fans can’t wait to see him on his big day. Salman Khan made headlines once again as he attended a Haldi ceremony at Anant Ambani’s home. Arriving in a stylish orange kurta and black pajama, the actor looked very sylish and looked ready for the occasion. However, it was his departure that caught everyone’s attention. After the ceremony, the superstar was seen leaving Anant’s home wearing a stylish orange kurta with haldi streaked all over his face.

Photos of Salman with haldi on his face quickly circulated on social media, prompting fans to tease their beloved bhaijaan. One fan cheekily on ‘X’ remarked, “Haldi lagaadi baby ko,” while another expressed a desire to see Salman at his own haldi ceremony, writing, “He should get married soon.” Another fan repeated the sentiment with, “What a sight! Bhai, get married soon.” The actor, who remains one of Bollywood’s most eligible bachelors, has long been the subject of marriage rumors and rumour.

Videos from the pre-wedding celebrations saw the star partying and dancing with his rumored lady love Iulia Vantur who is a bollywood actress. While they arrived separately, videos from the bash saw them together, mingling with guests.

On the professional front, Khan is currently busy shooting for his next film titled ‘Sikandar’ directed by ‘AR Murugadoss.’ The film, directed by A R Murugadoss, also stars ‘Baahubali’ star Sathyaraj alongside Prateik Babbar and Rashmika Mandanna. The film is scheduled for release in theaters on Eid 2025.

Minister Kirodi Lal Meena Resigns and Fulfills ‘If Party Loses’ Promise

July 4, 2024, 1:11 pm

Rajasthan BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena, aged 72, announced his resignation from the state cabinet and all his positions at a public prayer gathering in Jaipur.

He had previously stated that he would resign if the BJP lost any of the seven seats in eastern Rajasthan assigned to him by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, before the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha election were announced.

Following through on his promise, Kirodi Lal Meena, a BJP leader has resigned from the Rajasthan Cabinet. His aide confirmed that Meena submitted his resignation to the chief minister ten days ago.

In the recent Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan, the BJP won 14 out of 25 seats, while the Congress showed improvement by securing eight seats, including Dausa. Three seats were won by other parties.

Meena was responsible for several departments, including public charge resolution, disaster management, relief and civil defense, as well as agricultural and horticultural affairs.

Chinese Private Rocket Crashes and Explodes During Test Flight Near Gongyi

July 1, 2024, 7:17 pm

A Chinese private company’s space rocket crashed and erupted into flames near the city of Gongyi on Sunday, following an accidental launch during a test. The first stage of the Tianlong-3 rocket, developed by Beijing Tianbing, also known as Space Pioneer, left its launch pad due to a structural failure at the connection between the rocket and the test stand, the company stated on its official WeChat account.

The rocket landed in a hilly area near Gongyi, a city in central China. Video footage published by Chinese digital media outlet The Paper showed the rocket soaring straight up into the air before losing power, turning horizontally, and falling back to earth, where it exploded into flames on nearby forested hills.

An initial investigation found no reports of casualties. Parts of the rocket stage were scattered within a designated “safe area” but caused a local fire, according to a separate statement from the Gongyi emergency management bureau. The fire has since been extinguished, and no injuries were reported.

The two-stage Tianlong-3, or “Sky Dragon 3,” is a partly reusable rocket under development by Space Pioneer. The company is part of a small group of private-sector rocket makers that have rapidly grown over the past five years. While falling rocket debris in China after launches is not uncommon, it is rare for part of a rocket under development to make an unplanned flight out of its test site and crash.

According to Space Pioneer, the first stage of the Tianlong-3 ignited normally during a hot test but later detached from the test bench due to structural failure. A rocket typically consists of several stages, with the first stage igniting and propelling the rocket upwards upon launch. Once its fuel is exhausted, the first stage falls off, and the second stage ignites to keep the rocket in propulsion.

Space Pioneer claims that the performance of Tianlong-3 is comparable to SpaceX’s Falcon 9, another two-stage rocket. In April 2023, Space Pioneer launched a kerosene-oxygen rocket, the Tianlong-2, becoming the first private Chinese firm to send a liquid-propellant rocket into space.

Chinese commercial space companies have surged into the sector since 2014, when private investment in the industry was permitted by the state. Many of these companies started by making satellites, while others, including Space Pioneer, focused on developing reusable rockets to significantly cut mission costs.

The test sites of such companies are typically found along China’s coastal areas for safety reasons. However, some are located deep in the country’s interior, such as Space Pioneer’s test center in Gongyi, a city of 800,000 people in the central province of Henan.

US Election 2024: Age Concerns Dominate Biden-Trump Presidential Debate In Georgia

June 25, 2024, 1:03 pm

US President Joe Biden, 81, and Former US President Donald Trump, 78, are the oldest candidates to run for US presidential elections which are going to held on 4 November. Both the candidates are ready to appear for the presidential debate scheduled for 27 June. The venue for the debate is in Atlanta, Georgia, with age being a major concern. Voters will observe their physical and mental sharpness closely. The race is extremely close, and even a small misconception could have a major impact on the fate of both the candidates running for the elections.

Democratic strategist Jim Messina suggests that the debate should focus on policy and character, not just age. However, polls indicate more voters are worried about Biden’s age than Trump’s. A New York Times/Siena College poll revealed that 73% of voters believe that Biden is too old to be an effective president, while only 42% think the same about Trump.

Joe Biden, the oldest sitting president, faces questions about his energy and mental sharpness. Concerns include his softer voice, memory lapses, and stiff walking due to arthritis. His public actions, like his fall at an Air Force Academy event, are heavily watched. Despite this, a White House doctor recently confirmed he is “fit for duty.”

Some Democrats are concerned about Biden’s age but have also supported him through issues, such as the investigation into his handling of classified documents. His strong State of the Union speech showed he can handle serious moments. Biden’s campaign aims to use the debate to prove his stamina and highlight his differences from Trump in terms of policies and character.

Trump, although less examined for his age, has also faced questions about his mental fitness. At a rally in January, he mistakenly confused his rival Nikki Haley with Nancy Pelosi. Haley has suggested mental competency tests for politicians over 75 of age. Trump’s doctor claimed his cognitive tests were excellent. Trump has argued that the media is unfairly harsher on him compared to Biden.

Both the campaigns use social media to highlight their opponent’s mistakes. Republicans share edited videos to question Biden’s mental fitness, while Biden’s team shares similar content about Trump.

Young voters are mainly essential for Democrats, and they are worried about Biden’s age. Democratic strategist Amanda Litman says the candidates’ ages show a political system favoring older people, leading to young voters feeling disconnected. Many young voters want younger candidates who represent all age groups.

In Georgia, where the debate will be held, Democrats notice young voter’s lack of enthusiasm, with age being a key issue. Titus Nichols, a Cobb County Democratic Party attorney, says young people want action, not just speeches. On the debate night, millions will judge the candidates’ policies and stamina. Litman stresses that Biden must show competence, confidence, and determination to address concerns about his age.

3 Days Of Mourning After Orthodox Church Attack In Russia

June 24, 2024, 4:21 pm

Dagestan, a region in Russia’s North Caucasus, has declared three days of mourning after deadly attacks on religious sites and a police checkpoint. The attacks happened on Sunday during the Russian Orthodox Church’s Pentecost festival and killed 19 people, including 15 police officers and several civilians, one of whom was an Orthodox priest. Five of the attackers were also killed.

The violence took place in the cities of Derbent and Makhachkala, it targeted two Orthodox churches, a synagogue which is a Jewish assembly building, and a police post. Videos and images on social media and Russian TV showed smoke and flames at the synagogue in Derbent which is a city with a historic Jewish community. Similar attacks took place in Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, where the police checkpoint was also targeted.

The Russian Investigative Committee has started criminal investigations, calling the attacks “acts of terror.” In response, regional authorities declared a mourning period with flags at half-mast and the suspension of cultural and entertainment events. Governor Sergei Melikov expressed his condolences, calling it a tragic day for Dagestan and the whole country.

The attacks are believed to be the work of an “international terrorist organization,” even though the attackers’ identities are still unknown. The Russian news agency TASS, reported this possibility while local authorities are working to stabilize the situation and identify those who are responsible.

The attack on the synagogue in Derbent happened just before evening prayers started, causing major damage but no casualties. Meanwhile, in Makhachkala, 19 people took shelter in an Orthodox church during the assault and were safely evacuated by police. The Russian Orthodox Church is mourning Archpriest Nikolai Kotelnikov, who was killed in Derbent.

These coordinated attacks on civilian and religious sites are unusual in Dagestan, which has experienced infrequent violence but nothing this severe since the conflicts in neighboring Chechnya during the 1990s and early 2000s.

These attacks occurred a few months after a deadly assault at a Moscow rock concert as claimed by the Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP). Authorities are considering if the same or similar groups were involved in the Dagestan attacks. Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) had previously arrested people in Dagestan for links to the Moscow concert attack, showing ongoing security issues.

Both the international community and local authorities are watching the situation closely. Dagestan’s internal affairs ministry and security services are working to restore order and prevent more violence. The mourning period allows the community to grieve and strengthens efforts to fight terrorism and protect civilians.

Sonakshi-Zaheer Wedding: ‘Bina Daaru Piye Naachunga’ Honey Singh Humorously Said To Papz

June 23, 2024, 6:36 pm

Rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh is in Mumbai to attend his friend Sonakshi Sinha’s wedding to Zaheer Iqbal. The rapper was cheerful as he interacted with the paparazzi at the airport, posing for photos and taking selfies with fans. Dressed in a designer co-ord set, Honey Singh sported a salt-and-pepper beard and hair.

In a video shared by the paparazzi, Honey Singh humorously mentioned that he would dance without drinking alcohol at the wedding, which amused everyone present. Honey and Sonakshi previously collaborated on the hit 2014 song “Desi Kalakaar” and its sequel “Kalaastar” in 2023.

Reflecting on his past struggles, Honey Singh opened up in 2017 about his 18-month break from the public eye, clarifying that he was not in rehab but at his Noida home, battling bipolar disorder and alcoholism. Despite these challenges, he returned to making music and continues to perform.

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal, who co-starred in the 2022 film “Double XL” alongside Huma Qureshi, have kept their relationship private. The couple is set to marry in a civil ceremony on Sunday, followed by a star-studded wedding bash at Bastian, Mumbai. The festivities began with a pooja attended by Huma Qureshi and family members. Numerous celebrities are expected to join the celebration in the evening.

South Korea President Slams Russia-North Deal, Considers Arms Supply To Ukraine

June 22, 2024, 4:37 pm

Days after Russia and North Korea inked a defense pact, South Korea has said that it would consider supplying arms to Ukraine. This agreement, inked during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 2-day visit to North Korea, promises mutual military support in case of an invasion, as reported by North Korean media. It is pertinent to note that Russia has been engaged in a full-blown war with Ukraine since February 24, 2022.

Russia-Pyongyang Alliance

The latest deal denotes a deepening alliance covering security, trade, and cultural relations. It is viewed as a response to Russia’s isolation over its actions in Ukraine and its strained relations with Western countries. The pact has raised tensions in East Asia and sparked concerns about regional stability and South Korea’s diplomatic stance.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has criticized the pact, stating it to be a threat to stability in the region and a violation of UN rules. Seoul, capital city of South Korea, has a policy of not giving weapons to countries in conflict like Ukraine, but might change this due to Russia’s actions and changing geopolitics.

The summit and pact worry South Korean leaders and experts about how security might change in the region. North Korea supporting Russia could lead to economic and technology deals which is a matter of concern, especially since North Korea has nuclear weapons.

The agreement has sparked discussions among experts, some see it as more symbolic than actually strengthening Cold War-era alliances, while others think it could increase military and strategic ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.

For South Korea, the agreement poses bigger challenges in its relations with Russia, which are already tense due to Ukraine-related sanctions. Seoul must navigate these tensions carefully, with options including breaking ties or expelling diplomats to show concerns about Russia’s alliance with North Korea.

Kim Jong Un’s shift in foreign policy towards Russia amid heightened US-South Korea military drills shows the tense atmosphere on the peninsula. This includes unusual actions by North Korea, like dropping trash-filled balloons and using loudspeakers for psychological warfare against South Korea, similar to Cold War tactics.

South Korea’s reaction to the Russia-North Korea defense pact marks a crucial moment in regional diplomacy and security. As tensions rise and alliances change, Seoul’s strategic adjustments, potentially including supplying arms to Ukraine, highlight its role in a complex East Asian geopolitical scene shaped by historical rivalries and current global pressures.

UK Elections 2024: How Tactical Voting Impacts The Result

June 18, 2024, 5:26 pm

Tactical voting in the UK is a tactic where voters strategically support a candidate who isn’t their first choice but has the best chance of beating the incumbent or leading party under the first-past-the-post system. Supporters of The Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, Greens, Scottish National party, or Plaid Cymru often use this strategy to back candidates with the strongest chance of defeating Conservatives and particularly in closely contested constituencies. The presence of parties like Reform UK has made this tactic more complex.

The impact of tactical voting can be notable, particularly noticeable in byelections where the message is clearer and voters are more occupied. For example, in the 2021 North Shropshire byelection, tactical voting helped the Liberal Democrats to reverse a substantial Tory majority with support from Labour voters.

In general elections, tactical voting can be tricky due to the larger scale and diverse voter participation. Groups like Best for Britain offer guides to help voters decide which candidate is most likely to beat the Tories (The Conservative Party) in their area. This tactic depends on awareness of the voters and their will to vote strategically against the Conservatives.

The upcoming 4 July elections may see more tactical voting for a few reasons. Voters are getting better at using tactical voting, shown by past byelections where Tory majorities were overturned. Liberal Democrats and former Conservative voters find supporting The Labour Party under Keir Starmer more appealing than under Jeremy Corbyn. Furthermore, there is a strong desire among voters to show their dissatisfaction with the current government.

Potential targets for tactical voting, known as “Portillo moments,” are Tory strongholds where the Liberal Democrats could gain from voter dissatisfaction with figures like Rishi Sunak. Candidates such as Penny Mordaunt, Jeremy Hunt, and James Cleverly may face tough competition if tactical voting increases.

Surveys show many voters are open to tactical voting. Nearly 40% considering it to remove a Conservative candidate and about 14% to support one. Labour and Liberal Democrat voters are more likely to vote tactically, especially in areas where polling shows a strong alternative to the Conservative candidate.

A tactical voting helps UK voters to have the power to control election outcomes in the first-past-the-post system. As the 4 July elections are near, its success will depend on voter engagement, strategic thinking, and mobilizing support to challenge Conservative incumbents in key seats.

IPL 2024 Final: “You guys redefined T20 cricket”, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Kavya Maran Praises Team

May 27, 2024, 6:44 pm

Sunrisers Hyderabad co-owner and CEO Kavya Maran expressed her pride and emotion on Sunday, celebrating the team’s remarkable journey in IPL 2024 despite their defeat in the final. Maran highlighted the players’ innovative approach to T20 cricket, which led them to the summit clash.

Kolkata Knight Riders secured their third IPL title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets in the final held in Chennai. Despite SRH posting the lowest-ever total in an IPL final, a modest 113 runs, their aggressive batting throughout the season broke numerous records and earned widespread acclaim.

After the match, Kavya Maran applauded her team in an emotional dressing room speech, recognizing their efforts and achievements.

“You’ve made us proud.” ?

– Kaviya Maran pic.twitter.com/zMZraivXEE

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) May 27, 2024

Mitchell Starc’s exceptional bowling spell was pivotal in KKR’s victory. The Australian left-arm pacer claimed 2 for 14, reinforcing his reputation in the world’s most lucrative T20 league. Starc, who was acquired by Kolkata for a record USD 2.98 million in the December auction, concluded the IPL with impressive performances, including a crucial 3 for 34 in the first playoff against the same opponent.

In the final, Kolkata’s batting lineup faced little resistance. Despite losing Sunil Narine early, Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored 39, and Venkatesh Iyer remained unbeaten on 52, leading their team to victory with 9.3 overs to spare after a significant 91-run partnership.

Royal Family May Offer Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ‘Olive Branch’ On their anniversary

May 17, 2024, 9:20 am

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will celebrate their sixth wedding anniversary on Sunday, May 19, as they enter their seventh year together. However, it remains uncertain if the Windsor family will extend any greetings to the couple.

The Royal Family has not celebrated Prince Archie‘s birthday in the previous two months, and on Wednesday, May 8, they did not show up for the Duke of Sussex’s Invictus Games at Deadmans Victoria House. An observer of royal affairs speculated that Buckingham Palace might choose to overlook the Sussexes once more.

Based on the commemoration of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding anniversary, one could determine whether King Charles III and other royal butlers provide a “olive branch” to them.

“Typically the royal family do acknowledge wedding anniversaries, we usually see social media posts, so it’ll be interesting to see if that happens this year,” Grant explained in an interview on behalf of Fruity Slots. “If they don’t, once again it goes to show the ongoing division. If it does happen, then I see that as an olive branch.”

Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, were married at Windsor’s St. George’s Chapel on May 19, 2018. His brother, Prince William, served as best man. The couple announced in January 2020 that they were stepping down as senior working royals.

“The Royal family were ecstatic on the day, they were excited and genuinely seemed like they couldn’t have been happier for them,” Grant recalled.

“It was the perfect family wedding without question – if you remember, King Charles gave Meghan away. Fast forward to now and he probably wouldn’t have done something like that, it just shows you how close they once were,” he added.

Prince William ‘preventing’ Prince Harry from reconciling with King Charles III

Prince Harry returned to the UK for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games but couldn’t meet King Charles III due to the monarch’s “full schedule.”

Recently, it was reported that “difficult” Prince William might be “preventing” Prince Harry from reconciling with the King, not the “full schedule.”

“There is a public misconception about William and Harry. It is William who was often the difficult one, and it is William who is preventing his father from having a proper reconciliation with Harry. This isn’t helpful at a point in time when the country would be buoyed up by seeing them together again, as would the King,” a former palace official told the Daily Telegraph.

King Charles hands Colonel-in-Chief title to Prince William

The situation grew more complex when Prince William was appointed Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Aviation Centre, a role previously expected to be filled by Prince Harry, who served in the armed forces for a decade.

Buckingham Palace’s statement detailed, “At the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop, His Majesty The King will officially hand over the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.”

“In August 2023, following His Majesty’s Accession, The King was pleased to announce military appointments including that The Prince of Wales would become Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps. The role was previously held by His Majesty The King, as Prince of Wales, for 31 years.”

Royal biographer Katie Nicholl commented on Prince William receiving the honour instead of Prince Harry: “For many years, he served two tours in Afghanistan. You know, the timing is curious. I think many people will see that as a bit of a snub, really, from the palace, and perhaps a little bit of a poke in the ribs to Prince Harry.”

Nicholl further remarked, “Yes, he’s over here part of the Invictus community celebrating 10 years, but he’s been stripped of his right to wear his military uniform. And now his brother’s taken over the role that I think Harry would have expected to have come to him, had he still been a working member of the royal family. So, yes, I think the timing does feel poignant. And, yes, I think it’s probably another slap in the face for Prince Harry, and yet another reminder that he’s very much out rather than in when it comes to the royal family.”

BSF Recovers China-Made Drone from Harvesting Field in Tarn Taran District

May 4, 2024, 3:19 pm

BSF personnel discovered a damaged China-made drone in a harvested field in Tarn Taran district on Friday, according to Border Security Force (BSF) officials.

“At approximately 03:30 pm on May 3, while performing duties related to border fence gate management, observant BSF troops heard a crushing noise emanating from underneath a tractor advancing towards a farming field beyond the fence for harvesting,” BSF officials stated.

Upon hearing the sound, the troops promptly halted the tractor and found a broken drone beneath its tire.

This incident occurred in a harvested field near the village of Kalia in Tarn Taran District.
In a statement posted on ‘X’ by BSF Punjab Frontier, it was mentioned, “The drone recovered has been identified as a China-made DJI Mavic 3 Classic.”

The vigilant BSF personnel once again intercepted a drone employed in the illicit transportation of narcotics across the border, the statement added.