INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No. 31 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday July 31, 2026 India Secures Lower 10% US Tariff After Initially Being Slated for 12.5% Washington, DC, July 24 (ANI): The United States on Thursday unveiled new tariff slabs of 10% and 12.5% on several economies under Section 301, with India placed in the lower 10% tariff category. Officials told ANI that while New Delhi was initially considered for a 12.5% tariff, it secured the lower rate following productive discussions with Washington on labour practices. The development comes after the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% on 60 economies as part of an action directed by U.S. President Donald Trump over what it described as inadequate measures to prohibit the import of goods produced using “forced labour.” According to the USTR, India is among 17 economies that will face the lower 10% tariff. The group also includes the United Kingdom, Canada, Indonesia, Mexico, and Bangladesh. Officials told ANI that India was originally considered for a 12.5% tariff but was moved to the 10% category following constructive engagement with the United States on labour practices. The new duties, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, affect major trading partners including India, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, and Japan, and will take effect from Friday. The announcement was made by the USTR on Thursday as Ambassador Jamieson Greer took final action, at President Trump’s direction, to impose tariffs on 60 economies for their “failure to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the impor- tation of goods produced with forced labor.” Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 grants the U.S. Trade Representative authority to impose tariffs or other punitive measures against countries found to be engaging in unfair trade practices. The statement announced two tariff categories — 10% and 12.5% — and said that a 10% Section 301 duty applies to investigated economies that either impose a forced labour import prohibition, commit to implementing such a ban through an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, or have introduced partial measures preventing the import of certain forced labour goods. These economies include Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Canada, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom. The USTR further stated that a tariff rate of 10% or 12.5%, after accounting for the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate, would apply to certain products from the European Union, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland that are not otherwise exempted. the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the examination, and announced a date for the re-examination. Along with this, it was decided that from next year onwards, the examination would be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode,” he said. The Sambalpur MP emphasised that the government’s priority was to ensure that the interests of over two million students were protected during the re-examination process.”During this period, our primary concern was to ensure that the examination for more than two million students was conducted smoothly... From the very first day, I took responsibility for the situation and never turned away from it. My resolve was that we would not allow the prospects of any meritorious student to be harmed because of the examination controversy,” Pradhan said. He noted that the NEET- UG results declared on July 16 reflected the success of several meritorious students, including those from economically weaker sections.” T h e NEET-UG results announced on July 16 were satisfactory, with many meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds also achieving success,” he said. Expressing disappointment over the political developments surrounding the issue, Pradhan alleged that certain individuals had attempted to mislead students.”However, during this period, several individuals in positions of responsibility tried to create obstacles and mislead students, which deeply saddened me,” he wrote. Explaining the reasons behind his resignation, Pradhan said the It added that a 12.5% Section 301 duty would apply to all other investigated economies. U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer said President Trump believes decades of diplomatic efforts have failed to eliminate forced labour from global supply chains.“President Trump recognizes that decades of moral suasion have not eradicated forced labor from global supply chains. The United States has had a forced labor import ban for nearly a century, and rigorously enforces it; it’s well past time for our trading partners to do the same,” Greer said. He praised countries that had taken swift action to address the issue and said he looked forward to ensuring effective enforcement of such measures. The latest move follows the USTR’s decision in March to launch investigations into 60 economies under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 to determine whether their practices involved failures to enforce bans on goods produced through forced labour. The investigations were followed by consultations with more than 45 governments and several public hearings. The USTR said it received, reviewed, and analysed more than 1,600 written comments on the proposed action. The decision marks the latest escalation in the global trade dispute that President Trump reignited after returning to office in January last year. The move follows an earlier ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that found several tariffs imposed under emergency powers to be unlawful, prompting the administration to pursue alternative legal avenues to advance its trade agenda. (ANI) Dharmendra Pradhan steps down as education minister over NEET row New Delhi [India], July 25 (ANI): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday resigned from the Union Council of Ministers amid nationwide protests over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy. Pradhan stated that he was stepping down in the larger interest of students to ensure that the country’s youth do not become “trapped in a web of confusion.” In his resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhan highlighted his long-standing association with education and reaffirmed his commitment to Remember: the aspirations of India’s youth.”For more than four decades, I have been associated with students, teachers, and the cause of education reform. I have always believed that a strong, inclusive, and forward-looking education system is the foundation of a strong nation,” Pradhan said.Recalling the NEET-UG controversy, Pradhan stated that the Centre acted promptly after irregularities surfaced in the May 3 examination.” However, irregularities were found in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026. The Government of India immediately took cognisance of the matter, handed over “Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.” Proverbs ongoing protests should not be exploited by anti-national forces and stressed that students should be able to focus on their education.” The events of the past 10 days have saddened me. This is not a matter of personal prestige for me... It is my resolve that we will not allow the country’s youth power to become trapped in a web of confusion. The situation that has emerged at Jantar Mantar and elsewhere in the country should not be exploited by anti-national forces... Keeping these considerations in mind, I have sent my resignation to the Hon’ble Prime Minister,” he said. Pradhan thanked Prime Minister Modi for granting him the opportunity to serve as Education Minister and expressed gratitude to his Cabinet colleagues, ministry officials, and staff.”I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his guidance, trust, and continuous support... Serving the nation is the highest priority of my life, and I will always remain dedicated to it,” he said. This development comes amidst widespread nationwide protests and follows the 26-day hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar.Meanwhile, the Centre is preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law, which will establish Special Fast-Track Courts and a Special Task Force (STF), alongside other key provisions, to curb paper leaks across the country. (ANI)
INDIA THIS WEEK Amit Shah to introduce Registration of Births and Deaths Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha today; Rahul Gandhi to speak on anti-paper leak bill New Delhi [India], July 29 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to introduce the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, as per the revised list of business for the day. The Lower House will also continue further consideration of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Union Minister Jitendra Singh is scheduled to move that the Bill, aimed at curbing examination malpractices, be taken into consideration and subsequently passed. Significantly, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, is expected to address the House around 12:30 PM today specifically regarding the “Anti-Paper Leak” bill. The opposition has been critical of the government’s handling of recent examination irregularities and is expected to raise several concerns during the discussion. Apart from this, the government will also bring the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, for consideration and passing. This will be moved by Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Concurrently, a statutory resolution has been moved by opposition MPs, including Sougata Ray from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), NK Premachandran of the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), and Congress MP Dean Kuriakose, expressing disapproval of the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance promulgated by the President in May 2026. Several ministers, including Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Commerce Jitin Prasada, and Minister of State for Rural Development Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, are scheduled to lay papers on the table pertaining to their respective ministries, including Earth Sciences, Electronics and IT, and Communications. The House will also hear a motion from PP Chaudhary from the Bharatiya Janata Party FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 DRDO develops India’s first indigenous 350-kg thrust class expendable turbojet engine (BJP) and Dharmendra Yadav from the Samajwadi Party (SP) seeking an extension of time for the Joint Committee to present its report on the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, until the winter session of 2026. A d d i t i o n a l l y, statements regarding the implementation of recommendations from various standing committees--including those on fake news, sugar industry reviews, and science and technology grants--are slated to be made by union ministers, including Minister of State (MoS) Parliamentary Affairs L Murugan and Minister of State of Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey. (ANI) New Delhi [India], July 23 (ANI): The first indigenous Expendable Turbo Jet Engine of 350 kg thrust class, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), has been successfully developed. GTRE had identified Azad Engineering, Hyderabad, as an industry partner for the manufacturing and assembly of the engine, as per the release. On July 22, the engine was successfully realised and delivered to GTRE by Azad Engineering, a landmark achievement for India’s aerospace and defence ecosystem. The delivery marks the culmination of years of precision engineering, advanced manufacturing, and close partnership between India’s scientific & industrial communities. Mastered by only a handful of nations, jet engine technology is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated engineering disciplines in the world, demanding exceptional precision, advanced metallurgy, and uncompromising manufacturing standards. Delivery of such a complex system based on the design of DRDO reflects the growing techno- logical capabilities of the Indian Defence Industry. The engine was handed over to Distinguished Scientist & Director General (Aeronautical Systems) K Rajalakshmi Menon and Outstanding Scientist and Director GTRE SV Ramanamurty by CEO Azad Engineering Shri Rakesh Chopdar. Defence Secretary and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO Rajesh Kumar Singh complimented the partnership of GTRE and industry that has been instrumental in transforming the vision into a historic milestone. (ANI) define and regulate such emerging forms of online offences. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the Centre is already working on a draft legislation that would comprehensively address digital arrests, deepfakes and similar cyber-enabled crimes.” There is a draft bill which is coming up… It will take care of digital arrests, deepfakes, etc,” Mehta submitted.Appearing for the Union government, Attorney General R Venkataramani informed the Bench that an Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) is finalising a comprehensive report examining existing legal and procedural gaps in addressing such cybercrimes. Venkataramani also said that the CBI is currently probing around 20 major digital fraud cases involving losses of Rs 10 crore or more, while other cases are being investigated by the respective State police forces.The bench said it will pass a direction in the case on Wednesday. Last year, the apex court took suo moto cognisance of incidents of digital arrest scams, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement agencies or judicial authorities to extort money from citizens, particularly senior citizens.The top court had, in a previous hearing, observed that the fabrication of judicial orders bearing forged signatures of the judges strikes at the very foundation of the public trust in the judicial system, besides the rule of law. It had said such action constituted “direct assault” on the dignity of the institution. The bench was earlier told that nearly Rs 3000 crore has been swindled by fraudsters through such scam arrests.The apex court had said that coordinated efforts between the central and State police are required to unearth the full extent of the enterprise involving forging judicial documents, extortion, robbery of innocent people, most importantly, the senior citizens. The bench took suo moto cognisance of a complaint to the apex court by a senior citizen couple who have been defrauded of their life savings through a digital arrest scam last week.The 73-year-old woman from Ambala alleged that scammers used forged Supreme Court orders to confine her in a digital arrest and extort more than Rs. 1 crore. She had claimed that the fraudsters produced a fake order purportedly issued by a Supreme Court judge. The apex court had issued notice to the Union of India through the Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the CBI through its Director, Principal Secretary, Department of Home, and SP Cyber Crime at Ambala. It also asked the Haryana government and SP Cyber Crime, Ambala to file the status report of the investigation taken place so far. (ANI) Supreme Court urges Centre to criminalise digital arrest, calls for law on deepfakes New Delhi [India], July 28 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Tuesday urged the Union government to define “digital arrest” as a standalone criminal offence with stringent punishment, while also stressing the need for a law to tackle the growing menace of deepfakes and other emerging online crimes. A Bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana observed that where a court forms a prima facie opinion against an accused based on cogent material, authorities should be empowered to freeze the person’s assets pending investigation. Justice Bagchi highlighted the increasing threat posed by deepfakes and stressed the need for legislative measures to Immigration Lawyer Law Office of Ryan Morgan Knight Email or call for free consultation ryan@immigrationknight.com 1 (888) 735-0560 Ryan Knight Licensed to practice immigration law Nationwide; Licensed to practice art law in Maryland
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 Indian-American CEO Revathi Advaithi Pledges $1 Million for Women’s Scholarships at BITS Pilani and advancing sustainable manufacturing. Announcing the gift during the university’s 2026 convocation ceremony where she was the chief guest, Advaithi, a 1990 BITS Pilani graduate, said the endowment was inspired by her own educational journey and her desire to help ensure that talented young women are not denied educational opportunities due to financial hardship. In a commencement address that earned a standing ovation, she reflected on the experiences that shaped her journey from a BITS Pilani student to the chief executive of one of the world’s leading manufacturing companies. She shared that her father died when she was 15, leaving her mother to raise five daughters with no formal education, no job and no income. Despite those hardships, her mother remained determined to educate her children and sent Advaithi to BITS Pilani in 1986, where she was the only woman in her class. Advaithi sur- prised graduates with a candid admission that she “almost did not graduate” from the institute. “I was not a serious student,” she said, recalling that she devoted more time to campus life than academics and graduated without distinction. The central theme of her address was captured in two words: “Ready enough.” She urged graduates not to wait until they felt completely prepared before embracing opportunities, recalling that she nearly declined the career-defining promotion that eventually led her to become CEO because she believed she was unqualified. Her company’s chief executive challenged that self-doubt with a simple message: “Nobody is perfectly ready for any job. You are ready enough.” “Nobody walks in ready,” Advaithi told the graduates. “The one who gets the job and walks in is ready enough.” She disclosed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer while leading one of the most significant strategic transformations in Flex’s history, saying the rainfall in the mountains, a rise in the water level here is inevitable,” he told ANI.”Our flood monitoring posts are continuously relaying information about the rising water levels to the administration and senior officials. Additionally, public announcements are being made in the villages along the banks of the River Ganga, warning people not to venture near the river,” he added. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reviewed the prevailing state situation in a high-level meeting with Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman, following the India Meteorological Department’s orange alert across multiple districts and continuous heavy rainfall since Monday night. The Chief Minister sought a detailed assessment of rainfall across the state, the situation in various districts, road blockages, river water levels, waterlogging, ongoing relief and rescue operations and the preparedness of the administration to deal with any emergency. Amid continuous heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, the water levels of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers have risen above the warning mark, prompting the district administration to issue a high alert and direct officials to remain on maximum vigilance. Authorities have advised residents living along the riverbanks to shift to safer locations if required and instructed all concerned departments to remain prepared to deal with any possible natural disaster.In view of the India Meteorological Department’s weather alert, the district administration has instructed all officials to maintain heightened vigilance across their respective areas. The administration has also directed all concerned departments to remain fully prepared to deal with any potential natural disaster and ensure that relief and rescue teams are on standby with all necessary resources. Elaborating on the ground situation, Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, stated that prior preparations were made following early orange alerts.Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday announced that post-mortem examinations for flood victims would be waived off, saying the government’s response to the ongoing crisis must be driven by compassion rather than bureaucracy, as the state continues to grapple with floods.” During a crisis, our response must be guided by compassion, not bureaucracy. I have directed that post-mortems be waived off for flood victims to spare families further anguish. Ex-gratia assistance will be released at the earliest, with no avoidable procedural delays,” By Geeta Goindi July 26, 2026 – Indian-American business leader Revathi Advaithi has pledged $1 million to establish a permanent scholarship endowment for economically disadvantaged women students at her alma mater, the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani. Established jointly by Advaithi and her husband, manufacturing technology leader and investor Jeevan Mulgund, the $1 million gift will fund the Visalam Swamy and Sucheta Mulgund Scholarship, named in honor of their mothers. The institute said the scholarship is intended to ensure that “financial circumstances do not prevent a talented young woman from receiving a BITS Pilani education.” Advaithi is the Chief Executive Officer of Flex, a Fortune 500 advanced manufacturing and supply chain solutions company, where she has led a global workforce across 30 countries since 2019. Under her leadership, Flex has focused on technology innovation, strengthening supply chain resilience Revathi Advaithi, CEO of Flex and a BITS Pilani alumna, has pledged a $1 million endowment to support scholarships for economically disadvantaged women students at her alma mater. experience reinforced her belief that life rarely presents ideal conditions. “The work happens anyway… Ready enough is the muscle that gets you through it,” she emphasized. Addressing the women in the graduating class, Advaithi encouraged them to reject self-doubt. “The right answer to the question is, Are you ready? And remember you are ready enough to walk into the room, take the job, raise your hand, say yes,” she said. Advaithi also called on the graduating men to become advocates for gender equity by challenging assumptions that women are “not quite ready” for leadership opportunities. “That one small act repeated by enough men of your generation will close the gap that no policy has been able to close,” she said. Introducing Advaithi at the convocation ceremony, BITS Pilani Group Vice Chancellor Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao described her as a global manufacturing leader whose career reflects innovation, leadership and a commitment to responsible manufacturing. He noted that, following the planned spin-off of Flex’s Cloud and Power business into an independent public company, Advaithi will become Chief Executive Officer of the new company while serving as Chairman of the Flex Board during the transition. She also serves on the boards of Uber and the MIT Presidential CEO Advisory Board. Before joining Flex, Advaithi held senior leadership positions at Eaton and Honeywell. In 2023, then-President Joe Biden appointed her to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations and the Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness. Advaithi earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from BITS Pilani and later received an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. She has been named among Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business, recognized as Fast Company’s 2025 Modern CEO of the Year, and featured on CNBC’s inaugural Changemakers list. Heavy rains trigger flood alert across states; IMD issues orange alert in Himachal Pradesh New Delhi [India], July 28 (ANI): Continuous heavy rainfall across several states has triggered flood concerns, with the Ganga river reaching the warning mark at Bhimgoda Barrage in Haridwar, while Assam continues to grapple with severe floods and Himachal Pradesh remains under an orange alert for heavy rain.The water level of the Ganga River has reached the warning mark at Bhimgoda Barrage in Haridwar due to continuous heavy rainfall in the area. Junior Engineer of the Irrigation Department, Haridwar, Harish Prasad said that the current water discharge at Bhimgoda Barrage is 140,948 cusecs, while the water level stands at 292.70 metres.”The water discharge at our Bhimgoda Barrage is currently 140,948 cusecs, and the water level stands at 292.70 meters. Our alert level is 293 meters, while the danger mark is 294 meters. Given the continuous the CM said on X. The announcement comes as Assam continues to battle a severe flood crisis that has swept through Upper Assam. According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), more than 4.45 lakh people across six districts remain affected by floods. As many as 631 villages are inundated, while 184 relief camps and distribution centres are sheltering nearly 28,700 people. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Tuesday urged the Centre to announce a special relief package for Assam, which was hit by devastating floods. Heavy overnight rainfall lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh, with Shimla waking up to dense fog on Tuesday that significantly reduced visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall over the next four hours across Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, and Una districts, with isolated spells of heavy to very heavy rain likely in some areas.
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INDIA THIS WEEK DRDO successfully tests long-range air defence missile system ‘Kusha’ Balasore (Odisha) [India], July 23 (ANI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday successfully ™¡conducted the maiden flight test of the Long-Range Surfaceto-Air Missile (LR-SAM) system ‘Kusha’ from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The Kusha missile system is designed to destroy various aerial threats, including fight- er jets, missiles, drones and large enemy aircraft, across a wide range and altitude. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO on the successful maiden flight test of the system ‘Kusha’, calling it a major milestone in India’s defence research and development. He said the successful test marked an important milestone in India’s defence R&D and The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- July 24, 2026 Greatness Cannot Be Bought By Rajan George He who presumes himself to be great May never know true greatness. For greatness is not measured by arrogant claims, By ambition, power, wealth, status, or popularity, Nor by generous deeds performed Merely to exalt one’s own name. Greatness cannot be bought, claimed, or pursued To satisfy the hunger of an inflated ego. It is not sold in the marketplace, Nor presented on a silver platter As a reward for public charity or empty applause. It turns away from the arrogant, The selfish, and the ruthless— Those who wield power for self-glory, Who seek their own advancement While neglecting those entrusted to their care, Guarding only their own interests. Power may command authority And dsemand the homage of men. Wealth may purchase comfort, and fleeting pleasures. Yet peace and greatness remain beyond the reach Of those who silence their conscience And harden their hearts against compassion. Countless men of power, wealth, and fame, Many who once stood on lofty pedestals Are remembered today not as examples to follow, But as solemn warnings of what we should never be. Tyrants of ages past still speak through history Teaching lessons written in blood and tears. Yet even now there are those who emulate them Driven by ambition, greed, And an unquenchable thirst for power. True greatness is never self-proclaimed. It is an honor bestowed by others Upon lives marked by virtue, Integrity, humility, and selfless service. It belongs to those who sacrifice personal gains For the welfare of humanity, Seeking not recognition, but the good of others. God-fearing men and women, Rich in humility, wisdom, and compassion, Stand among the truly great. Their lives become beacons of hope, Their deeds inspire generations, And when their earthly journey ends, The world grieves their passing— For though their voices fall silent, Their legacy continues to speak, And their greatness lives on. highlighted the country’s capability to develop longrange surface-to-air missile systems. In a post on X, Singh wrote, “The @ DRDO_India has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile Kusha today from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Kusha missile system is capable of neutralising wide variety of aerial threats including fighter jets, missiles, UAVs and large enemy aircraft within a wide range and altitude envelope.” “Today’s successful test flight of Kusha marks an important milestone in Indian defence R&D. The capability in developing long range surface-to-air missile system is possessed only by a handful of nations. This will also eliminate the im- port dependency for such systems and signifies a giant leap in air defence capability of the nation,” the post read. Defence Secretary and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO Rajesh Kumar Singh monitored all activities during the launch and congratulated all the team members involved in the successful flight-test.Project Kusha is an indigenous, long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) defence system being developed by the DRDO. Designed to rival Russia’s S-400, it features three interceptor variants (150 km, 250 km, and 400 km ranges) to protect against stealth aircraft, drones, and hypersonic weapons. It is slated for operational deployment around 2028-2030. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 Naga Council extends full cooperation to NIA in probe into killing of three pastors in Manipur Senapati (Manipur) [India], July 29 (ANI): United Naga Council (UNC) President NG Lorho said the council would extend full cooperation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in its probe into the killing of three pastors in Manipur, while urging the central agency to expedite the investigation into the deaths of six Naga men, warning that prolonged inaction could lead to an intensification of the ongoing Naga agitation. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, after the NIA recorded his statement in Senapati in connection with the May 13 ambush on church leaders in Kangpokpi district, Lorho said the UNC had assured investigators of its support.”We welcome the NIA officials and extend our full cooperation in whatever way we can in the investigation into the targeted ambush and killings of the three pastors. At the same time, we also asked the NIA officials to seriously expedite the case of the six Naga men killed by Kuki militants. As of now, we still have not seen any tangible action from the government side. Therefore, the Naga people may intensify their actions beyond the ongoing economic blockade. The ultimate responsibility lies with both the Government of Manipur and the Government of India,” Lorho said.The NIA on Tuesday recorded Lorho’s statement as part of its investigation into the attack on a group of tribal church leaders near the Kotlem-Kotzim stretch of Kangpokpi district on May 13.The church leaders were returning to Kangpokpi after attending a religious gathering in Churachandpur when unidentified armed assailants ambushed their vehicle on the Tiger Road stretch between Kotzim and Kotlen Remember: villages.The attack claimed the lives of Rev Vumthang Sitlhou, former General Secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC), and pastors Paogou and Kaigoulien, all of whom were associated with the Thadou Baptist Association. Four others sustained serious injuries in the incident.Earlier, Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho alleged that cadres of the KNF-P were behind the killing of six Naga civilians, including two pastors from Konsakhul village, who were abducted from Leilon Vaiphei on May 13, and called for strict action against those involved. Speaking to ANI, Losii Dikho termed the incident as “beyond human belief” and said the brutality had left the government and people of the state shocked and enraged.”We know it was done by the KNF-P. They were the ones who took them,” Dikho said, alleging that the victims were handed over to armed cadres with the involvement of certain women groups, local society members and village chairmen.”What can I say? This is beyond human belief, the kind of action they have done. We cannot find appropriate words to express our anger, sorrow and sadness,” he said.The Deputy Chief Minister said the state government has already done its part and informed that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case. (ANI) “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.…
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INDIA THIS WEEK Sonam Wangchuk ends his hunger strike after 26 days in presence of MoS Jitendra Singh, Health Minister JP Nadda New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after 26 days on Friday in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh and senior leaders of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh.In a post on X, Wangchuk said that the step has been taken after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country. “Just now in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda & Dr. Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of Apex Body of Leh Ladakh I finally broke my fast after 26 days. Earlier 65 in members of parliament from different political parties had visited or signed letters urging me to break the fast. This was done after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country. I will explain the conditions in detail in a separate video very soon. meanwhile urge you all to stay very vitillant about not allowing violence of any kind anywhere,” Wangchuk said. Earlier, Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Gurugram’s Medanta Hospital following directions from the Delhi High Court. Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) called for nationwide peaceful protests to be held on July 24 (Friday), demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy.In an X post, the CJP shared a poster urging everyone to participate in peaceful protests across the nation to demand Pradhan’s resignation. The CJP urged the student unions and other organisations to collaborate and work together for permission and logistics to conduct the protests and read out the students’ demands aloud. The Centre on Thursday reiterated its willingness to hold talks with the student representatives, while the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said it had not received any communication from the government yet and re- mained ready for dialogue at Jantar Mantar or a neutral venue. Union Minister Jitendra Singh said that the government does not stand on prestige and both him and Union Minister JP Nadda would be present during any dialogue.” The govt has sent four formal proposals for discussions with their representatives since last afternoon...This is a standing invitation to all our youth friends that the government is ready for discussions on all issues at your convenience, at any time. Discussions can take place either at JP Nadda’s office or residence. We do not stand on prestige. Union Health Minister JP Nadda and I will be present for discussions. Slowly, by way of discussion, we will progress towards a solution. This is a part of the series of continuous steps taken by the govt for the welfare of the students. Humbly, I appeal to you all to come and have discussions,” the Union Minister told ANI. Meanwhile, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) Chief Spokesperson Saurav Das said that he had not received any communication from the government regarding talks, adding that the party was ready to meet at Jantar Mantar or a neutral venue. He added that the government should contact the party directly to decide the venue, time and duration of the discussion. Das told ANI, “Union Minister Jitendra Singh said that we can hold talks anywhere; then we have already made our suggestion. Come to Jantar Mantar or to a neutral venue like the Constitution Club of India. We will meet there. I have not received any message from their side yet”. (ANI) New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday promised that “more strict” action would be taken against paper leaks as the CJP-led protests continue over the alleged irregularities in the NEETUG 2026 examination.In a self-recorded video shared on X, the Prime Minister announced that the Union Cabinet will take up a draft Bill providing for FastTrack Courts and stringent punishment for offenders. he said, “I have issued directions to departments to set up Fast-Track Courts” The Opposition has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a detailed discussion on the NEET paper leak issue in the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, with the controversy triggering protests inside and outside the House. Along with the video, the Prime Minister wrote, “More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrow’s Cabinet!”In the video, Modi said, “Friends, I know that paper leaks are not an ordinary matter. For lakhs of students and their parents, it is extremely painful. And that is why, in the last two and a half months since the paper leak incidents, several major steps have been taken. The culprits have been caught; they are currently in jail,” he said.PM said, “Our most important responsibility was to ensure that a whole year for the students is not wasted. It was very important to conduct the exams immediately. The government used its full strength to arrange exams for nearly 22 lakh students in the shortest possible time. And just five or six days ago, on the 19th, the results were also announced. News of the happiness of successful students is coming from all over the country.”Stressing that the government was not stopping there, PM Modi said, “”However, we are not among FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 India’s first Hydrogen Train marks resounding success on Jind-Sonipat route Jind (Haryana) [India], July 24 (ANI): Setting a new benchmark for public transit, India’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered passenger train has proven to be a historic success on the Jind-Sonipat route. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 17, this hydrogen-powered train seamlessly covered an impressive distance of approximately 900 kilometres in the first five days of its commercial operation. This has firmly established the country in an elite global club of nations successfully operating state-of-the-art PM Modi promises ‘more strict actions against paper leaks’ amid CJP protests those who are satisfied with just that. And therefore, today I have issued directions to the departments to set up Fast-Track Courts. The departments worked tirelessly and, late last night, provided me with a draft. This draft, which includes provisions for Fast-Track Courts and stringent punishments, will be discussed in the Cabinet tomorrow,” he said. The PM further said, “After incorporating suggestions from Cabinet colleagues, it will be given a final shape. Efforts will be made to get this Bill passed in the House as soon as possible, as the second week of the Parliament session begins on Monday.” Modi said, “Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth! Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared.” Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke his silence on the controversy, announcing that the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure swift punishment for those involved in examination paper leaks. (ANI) hydrogen rail technology. Replacing conventional diesel engines with two advanced 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, the new train has significantly reduced diesel and conventional electricity consumption. Onboard fuel cells combine hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity to run the train, releasing only water vapour and heat as direct by-products. This zero-emission mechanism provides an exceptionally green and sustainable travel option for daily commuters. Furthermore, the use of this cutting-edge technology has placed no additional financial burden on passengers. Ticket fares have been kept highly affordable--exactly the same as ordinary DMU (Diesel Multiple Unit) services (between Rs 10 and Rs 25)--ensuring that sustainable travel remains completely accessible to the common person. This 10-coach hydrogen train serves as a highly cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to fuel-dependent trains. By completely eliminating polluting emissions and reducing reliance on expensive fuel imports, this train actively advances India’s ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission’. Supported by a dedicated, indigenously built hydrogen storage and refuelling facility in Jind, its long-term operational framework ensures maximum economic viability for Indian Railways. The historic success of the Jind-Sonipat hydrogen train is serving as a reliable blueprint for developing clean, green, and self-reliant transport infrastructure across the country. (ANI)
FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 Union Cabinet approves amendment to anti-paper leak law amid youth-led protests, deadlock in Parliament continues New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): The Union Cabinet on Friday approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, to strengthen the anti-paper leak law amid continuing nationwide protests over the NEET-UG row, while deadlock in Parliament continued for the fifth day. According to sources, the proposed amendment Bill is likely to be tabled in Parliament on Monday, July 27.This follows a late-night video message by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X, who promised that “stricter” action would be taken against paper leaks as the Cockroach Janata Party-led protests continue over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.In the video, the Prime Minister announced that the Union Cabinet will take up a draft Bill.Delhi Police has also constituted a Special Task Force (STF) in the Crime Branch to investigate paper leaks and other examination-related offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.Meanwhile, after PM Modi’s announcement for establishing fasttrack courts, High Courts in Delhi, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra (Bombay High Court) have established fast-track courts for paper leak cases.Even after the steps taken by the Centre and a call for discussion on the irregularities related to the examinations, the Opposition has asserted Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as a pre-condition to a parliamentary debate. In the Lok Sabha, as Opposition members rushed to the Well of the House despite repeated appeals from the Chair, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasised that the government was ready for a discussion and not having it now would not send the right message to the na- tion.Addressing the House amid the protests, Rijiju said, “I have requested KC Venugopal ji once again today, when we are all of the opinion that there should be a discussion on NEET. The PM has assured the nation. Sonam Wangchuk has broken his hunger strike and demanded a discussion. If we do not hold a discussion, it will not send the right message to the country.”He then turned his appeal directly to the Leader of the Opposition, saying, “I appeal to Rahul Gandhi to explain that to your MPs. I do not understand why we can’t have a good discussion on this on the 5th day of Parliament. Don’t put forward a condition,” referring to the opposition MPs demanding that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan should resign. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Rijiju said that the Centre has called for the debate on the NEET paper leak and related matters to begin immediately, while claiming that Congress was “not interested” in discussion. The Union Minister said, “For five days, we were unable to discuss the NEET paper leak. So, we appealed today as well. Our minister will brief us on the important cabinet decision. Rahul Gandhi was in the House today, so we asked that the debate begin immediately. Now, the Congress party has shown that it’s not interested in debate. Those who were protesting, and Sonam Wangchuk, the most prominent figure among the protesters, also broke his hunger strike and said that the discussion should take place now. I don’t think there’s any benefit in politicising this. We should focus on how to take concrete steps and the future of the students.”Union Minister Bhupender Yadav said the education system, the future of students and New Delhi [India], July 25 (ANI): The Rouse Avenue court on Saturday reserved its order on a revision petition arising out of a dispute over the alleged inclusion of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s name in the electoral roll before she became an Indian citizen. The revision petition has been filed by Vikas Tripathi, who has alleged that Sonia Gandhi’s name was included in the voter list before she became a citizen of India.Tripathi has sought the registration of an FIR in the matter after a magistrate court declined his plea. The order of the magistrate has now been challenged before the revisional court.Special Judge Vishal Gogne of the Rouse Avenue Court reserved the matter for pronouncement of orders on August 13. Meanwhile, the court has asked the counsel to file written submissions, if any, by August 1.Senior advocate R S Cheema alongwith Tarannum Cheema appeared for Sonia Gandhi. It was submitted that the documents placed by the revisionist are not genuine. On the other hand, Senior advocate Ajay Burman alongwith advocate Neeraj appeared for revisionist Vikas Tripathi. They argued that the respondent is not able to disclose how her (Sonia Gandhi) name was included in the voter list before she became an Indian Citizen.Earlier, on July 4, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi filed her reply on an application seeking filing of additional documents in a matter related to inclusion of her name in the voter list allegedly before becoming an Indian Citizen. This matter pertains to the inclusion of the name of Sonia Gandhi in the voter list allegedly before she became a citizen of India.On May 16, Vikas Tripathi filed an application seeking to bring an additional document on record in support of his revision petition.On April 18, after concluding the rebuttal arguements revisionist sought permission to place on record a document, which is a report of the Election Commission of the year 1980. Thereafter, the application for filing additional documents was filed by Vikas Tripathi.On March 30, the court heard the arguments by the complainant against Sonia Gandhi. The court also heard the counsel for Sonia Gandhi. The court had asked the counsel for Sonia Gandhi, “ How will you bypass the issue that Sonia Gandhi became a voter before she became a citizen of India in 1983?”Senior advocate R S Cheema, counsel for Sonia Gandhi, had submitted that it is a fishing and roving inquiry; the ACJM concluded it rightly. On the other hand, it was argued by Senior Advocate Burman that it was not possible to get the name included in the voter list without becoming an Indian Citizen. We are trying to show the court that only by forged documents or fraud could it have been done. The Court had said, “ You are here before the court asking for FIR. The matter is nearly half a century back. Who is going to be investigated? You are expanding the ambit.” Senior counsel for petitioner Vikas Tripathi had submitted that they are in knowledge of this fact. We have now acquired a copy from the Election Commission. We had applied for a copy of the roll and the attested copies were provided The Court had said, “ As on date the only information that you are disclosing is the circumstance of addition and deletion.This is a case of declaration made by a foreign citizen. We can show that prima facie a false declaration was made and it needs to be investigated, the complainant’s counsel had said. We are asking for investigation into forged documents and forgery, the senior advocate had submitted. The court was hearing the revision petition against the order refusing the order for registration of FIR. Vikas Tripathi had moved an application against Sonia Gandhi, which was dismissed by the ACJM of Rouse Avenue court. (ANI) Delhi court reserves order on appeal over Sonia Gandhi’s name inclusion in electoral roll the role of youth in nation-building were a collective responsibility.”In a democracy, the best place for dialogue is the floor of the House. Through this dialogue on the floor of the House, we can formulate a good action plan for a robust, vigilant, and sensitive examination system in the future,” he said.” I believe the opposition should not resort to unnecessary politics, stir up excitement, and exploit circumstances for small political gains. Parliament is a major forum where a full discussion should take place,” Yadav told ANI.Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh said, “I have said this earlier too that the Opposition’s conduct is highly irresponsible. Opposition had demanded a discussion, and the government is ready for all kinds of discussions. But now they do not want a discussion but want to cause ruckus in the House. Parliament exists to discuss matters of the country. So, have a discussion. Who is stopping you? You present your side, Govt will present theirs. But they will be exposed. What the PM has decided, he has said that nobody will have permission to play with the future of students and stringent action will be taken; he has spoken of a fast-track court. If a crime is done, action is taken too. Government is ready to take action.”Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said the Opposition was ready to discuss the paper leak issue in Parliament but demanded that Dharmendra Pradhan be removed before any dialogue. Gandhi alleged that Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju had invited MPs to discuss the matter, but said he 9 was not allowed to respond when he tried to speak.”Just now, Minister Rijiju made a statement that he wants to tell our MPs that there should be a discussion. Normal protocol says that if someone mentions someone else’s name, they are responded to. When I wanted to respond, my mic was taken away. I wasn’t given the opportunity, said the Congress M P. C o n g r e s s President Mallikarjun Kharge criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s video message regarding assurances to students amid ongoing exam-related protests, demanding that the Prime Minister address the issue on the floor of the Parliament.”He should speak in the Parliament; only then we will understand his authentic words. When he comes, let him give a statement. Instead of speaking at 12 midnight, if he comes to the Parliament during the day and says what he wants to say, then we will see,” Kharge said. Immediately following his statement, the Upper House was adjourned. The day in the Parliament began with Opposition MPs’ protest against the NEET-UG paper leak at Makar Dwar. Parliament witnessed several adjournments before both Houses were finally adjourned till July 27, Monday. Meanwhile, MoS Home Nityanand Rai moved the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill seeks to make any obstruction or insult to the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence.Both Houses also paid tribute to the heroes of the Kargil War, honouring their supreme sacrifice on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas. (ANI)
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