FRIDAY JUNE 20, 2025 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.US Vol 34 No: 25 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday June 20, 2025 Tragedy in Ahmedabad: Air India Flight AI 171 Crashes During Takeoff, 242 Onboard, One Survivor Found Ahmedabad (Gujarat), June 12 (ANI): A catastrophic aviation disaster struck Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed during takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, crashed just outside the airport perimeter, near a doctors’ hostel in the Meghaninagar area, killing an undetermined number of people. In a miraculous turn, one survivor has been found and is currently hospitalized. Flight AI171 took off from Runway 23 at approximately 1:38 PM IST (08:09 UTC). Within moments of becoming airborne, the aircraft issued a MAYDAY distress signal, indicating a critical emergency. However, all communication was soon lost, and the aircraft plummeted into a nearby residential structure, igniting a massive fire and sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky. The crash site, located near the airport’s boundary wall, quickly became the center of a full-scale emergency response operation. The aircraft struck a building that housed a doctors’ hostel, intensifying the scale of the tragedy. Residents nearby reported Remember: hearing a loud explosion followed by intense flames and heavy smoke. Emergency services were on site within minutes, and rescue operations commenced immediately. Three teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising a total of 90 personnel, were dispatched from Gandhinagar to assist with rescue efforts. It is better to give love. Hatred is a low and degrading emotion and is so poisonous that no man is strong enough to use it safely. The hatred we think we are directing against some person or thing or system has a devilish way of turning back upon us. When we seek revenge we administer slow poison to ourselves. When we administer affection it is astonishing what magical results we obtain.” Thomas Dreier Additional teams from Vadodara were also mobilized. Firefighters, local police, and medical teams worked through the debris to locate survivors and extinguish the blaze. Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik confirmed that one person, seated in 11A, was found alive in the wreckage. “He has been hospitalized and is currently undergoing treatment. We cannot yet confirm the final death toll, but the numbers are likely to be high given the location of the crash,” said Malik. The Ahmedabad City Police has established an emergency helpline— 079-25620359—to assist those seeking information about passengers and rescue efforts. Air India confirmed the incident in a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter): “Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after takeoff. The flight, which departed at 13:38 hours, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian national. Injured passengers are being shifted to the nearest hospitals. A dedicated hotline number, 1800 5691 444, has been set up to provide more information.” The aircraft was operated by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 hours of flying experience, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours of flight time. The aircraft involved in the accident was registered as VT-ANB. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed his shock and sorrow over the incident: “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilized, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.” An Operational Control Room has been activated by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to oversee and coordinate all aspects of the rescue, relief, and investigation process. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also spoken with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and Police Commissioner G.S. Malik. He assured full assistance and cooperation from the Central government. “Every necessary step is being taken to support rescue efforts and bring clarity to this tragic event,” said Shah. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel responded AIR INDIA CRASH SEE PAGE 6
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Bodies of 5 Indians Killed in Kenya Bus Accident Repatriated to Kerala Kochi (Kerala) [India], June 15 (ANI): The bodies of five Indian nationals who tragically lost their lives in a bus accident in Kenya have been brought back to Kerala. The remains were flown in on a Qatar Airways flight that landed at Cochin International Airport on Sunday. The victims—all residents of Kerala—were part of a group of tourists involved in a tragic accident on June 9 in Naivasha, approximately 150 km from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. The tourist bus, carrying 28 Indian nationals, including the deceased, reportedly veered off the road and fell into a valley, leaving five dead and at least 23 others injured. The deceased have been identified as Jasna (29), her daughter Ruhi Mehreen (1.5 years), Geetha Shoji Isaac (58), Riya Ann (41), and her daughter Tira Rodrigues (7). According to the Indian Embassy in Qatar, injured Indian nationals are undergoing treatment and receiving all necessary care. Meanwhile, the postmortem formalities for the five victims have been completed in Kenya. Initially, the repatriation faced hurdles due to the Yellow Fever vaccination certificate requirement for the deceased and their accompanying relatives. However, the Kerala State Government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, promptly intervened. Following a special request, the Central Government granted an exemption to allow the bodies to be returned without the yellow fever certification. Kerala Industries Minister P. Rajeev and representatives of NORKA Roots, the state’s agency for Non-Resident Keralites, received the bodies at the airport. Arrangements were made to transport the deceased to their respective hometowns, accompanied by grieving family members. The group had been visiting Kenya from Qatar for a sightseeing tour when the accident occurred. The Indian High Commission in Kenya confirmed the incident happened on the Ol Jororok–Nakuru Road in Nyandarua County and has deployed a consular team to coordinate with local authorities and assist the affected families. In a post on X, the High Commission stated: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Indian nationals in a road accident in Kenya. Our consular team is on the ground and providing all necessary assistance in coordination with local authorities.” This tragedy has cast a pall of grief over Kerala, as the families and communities mourn the unexpected loss of five of their own. (ANI) Air India plane crash: FSL team establishes deceased identities in less than 72 hours Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], June 16 (ANI): Forensic Science Laboratory demonstrated scientific precision to identify the deceased in less than 72 hours in the Air India plane crash in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, a release from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said on Monday. According to the release, under the instructions of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the FSL team reached the crash site within moments. The magnitude of the disaster was evident at first glance. The mortal remains and body parts were being transported by the rescue team to the Civil Hospital. In such a difficult time, the FSL team immediately coordinated with the Civil Hospital and began collecting DNA samples from the bodies and remains brought in for testing. In this context, Director of Forensic Science, H. P. Sanghvi, stated that this incident was not just another “case” for FSL, but a matter of hope and emotion for countless families. That’s why all FSL teams from Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot were immediately mobilized to Gandhinagar to expedite the DNA profiling process and ensure the swift handover of the victims’ bodies to their families, it said. Due to the complexity involved in testing DNA samples collected from unrecognisable remains, every sample of the deceased was carefully brought to the FSL laboratory in Gandhinagar. Simultaneously, the process of collecting DNA samples from the relatives of the deceased and conducting profiling was started at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. He added that at both locations, a total team of 54 DNA experts has been working around the clock to carry out the profiling and matching tests of the deceased and their family members, the release added. It is noteworthy that in the Ahmedabad plane crash, Gujarat’s FSL team accelerated the identification process of the deceased with planned precision. As a result, the team succeeded in establishing the identity of the victims in less than 72 hours. Two decades ago, DNA testing for identification used to take about 5 to 10 days. In contrast, due to the availability of state-ofthe-art FSL labs, advanced DNA testing machinery, and a capable team of experts in Gujarat, the identification of victims is now being completed in nearly 72 hours. After visiting the FSL, Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi continuously reviewed the DNA testing work and encouraged the FSL team. He also praised the commitment and dedication of the FSL experts toward their duty. Furthermore, it was mentioned that young and enthusiastic scientists, technicians, and assistants of the FSL team, amid this grave situation, have set aside sleep, rest, and even their families, and are relentlessly working day and night using forensic technologies like DNA profiling to restore the identities of the deceased. Of the 54 DNA experts, 22 are women, the release added. Several among them have children under the age of three, yet they have been working at the lab for the past four days to help identify the deceased. One such example is of a DNA expert whose mother’s heart was functioning at only 20 per cent and required immediate surgery. Still, setting aside these personal hardships, the expert displayed greater commitment to the task of testing the DNA of the victims. The team of experts working day and night at FSL is a true example of selflessness and dedication to duty, he stated. Following this highly complex and sensitive task, the FSL team has achieved incredible success in identifying several deceased individuals from the Ahmedabad plane crash. Because of their relentless efforts, grieving families are receiving the mortal remains of their loved ones swiftly. The dedication shown by the FSL team in the Ahmedabad plane crash is truly commendable. They have not only provided scientific evidence but have also set a remarkable example of human empathy. The unseen hard work and unwavering commitment of the FSL team are playing an immensely significant role in healing the wounds of this horrific tragedy, the release added. The Londonbound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft crashed into a hostel complex shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel InternationalAirport on June 12, killing 241 passengers and crew, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. (ANI)
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June 20, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK India, Cyprus to deepen cooperation as trusted, indispensable partners; prepare action plan to guide ties for next five years ` Nicosia [Cyprus], June 16 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional, and global issues on Monday with the two countries expressing their commitment to deepening cooperation “as trusted and indispensable partners”. AJoint Declaration made after talks between PM Modi and Cyprus President reaffirmed the strategic bond between the two countries with the two leaders agreeing that an Action Plan is to be prepared in order to guide bilateral relations for the next five years. PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, marked a historic milestone and reaffirmed the deep and enduring friendship between the two nations. “The visit celebrates not only a shared history, but a forwardlooking partnership, rooted in a joint strategic vision and mutual trust and respect,” the declaration said. PM Modi arrived in Cyprus on Sunday as part of his three-nation visit. The two countries agreed to enhance trade, defence and technology partnership and establish direct air connectivity. Both leaders noted with satisfaction the progress in ongoing bilateral cooperation and expressed confidence that the partnership will continue to flourish, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across their regions and beyond. Cyprus and India share a strategic vision of serving as bridges between regions. Both leaders underscored the significance of the India-Middle EastEurope Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a transformative, multi-nodal initiative that fosters peace, economic integration, and sustainable development. Viewing IMEC as a catalyst for constructive regional cooperation, they reiterated their shared commitment to promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East and emphasized the importance of fostering deeper engagement and corridors of interconnection from the Indian peninsula through the wider Middle East to Europe. While recognizing Cyprus’ role as a gateway into Europe, they welcomed the prospect of Indian shipping companies establishing a presence in Cyprus, encouraging the advancement of maritime cooperation through joint ventures involving Cyprus- based and Indian maritime service providers as a means of further strengthening economic and logistical ties. Looking ahead to Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening EU-India relations. They recalled the milestone visit of the College of Commissioners to India, and expressed satisfaction on the launch of the first India-EU Strategic Dialogue and the progress already made in the priority areas identified during the visit including in trade, defence and security, maritime, connectivity, clean and green energy, and space. Cyprus pledged to work towards the advancement of the EUIndia strategic partnership during the Presidency. Both sides expressed readiness to support the conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement by the end of this year recognizing its significant economic and strategic potential. They also expressed their support for the ongoing work through the EU-India Trade and Technology Council and committed to sustaining a forward-looking agenda beyond the 2025 Strategic Roadmap to deepen this key global partnership. Recognizing the growing strategic complementarity between Cyprus and India, the leaders committed to expanding economic ties through increased trade, investment, and collaboration in science, innovation, and research. To advance cooperation, the two leaders noted they would welcome a Cypriot highlevel delegation visiting India, including business representatives, as well as the organisation of a Cyprus-India Business Forum to promote investment opportunities. The two leaders also addressed the Cyprus-India Business Round Table on Advancing a Strategic Economic Partnership. Both leaders agreed to promote collaboration in research, innovation, and technology, fostering stronger ties between startups, academic institutions, and industry, and supporting innovation exchanges in key sectors like artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and research, with a view of concluding a related MoU. The two leaders recognized people-topeople ties as a strategic asset and multiplier for deepening economic and cultural ties. The two sides will work to finalise a Mobility Pilot Program Arrangement by the end of 2025. Both sides emphasized the value of fostering mutual understanding through cultural and people-topeople ties. They agreed to explore opportunities for enhancing tourism and establishing direct air connectivity between Cyprus and India, as well as enhanced air routes via shared partners, to improve ease of travel and boost bilateral exchanges. The two leaders underscored their shared commitment to peace, democracy, the rule of law, effective multilateralism, and sustainable development. They reaffirmed their support for a rulesbased international order, grounded in the UN Charter and international law, placing particular emphasis on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), with regard to freedom of navigation and sovereign maritime rights. (ANI) New Delhi [India], June 11 (ANI): India has made remarkable strides in expanding social protection over the past decade, with coverage rising from 19 percent in 2015 to 64.3 percent in 2025, according to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) ILOSTAT database. This represents a 45 percentage point surge and marks one of the most significant global expansions in social security coverage. The milestone was highlighted during a bilateral meeting between Union Minister for Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, and ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva. During the meeting, Mandaviya credited the Modi government’s pro-poor and labour welfare initiatives over the past 11 years for the rapid rise in social protection. He also briefed the ILO chief about the national-level Social Protection Data Pooling Exercise, a collaborative effort between the Indian government and the ILO. As per an official statement, India now ranks second globally in terms of the number of people covered under at least one social protection benefit, with over 94 crore citizens included. In comparison, only 19 percent of the population had such coverage in 2015. The ILO’s inclusion criteria for a social protection scheme requires legislative backing, cash-based disbursals, and verified time-series data for the past three years. India’s adherence to these parameters was affirmed through the recent update to the ILOSTAT database. Speaking from Geneva, Mandaviya stated, “This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the relentless efforts of the Government in building an inclusive and rights-based social protection ecosystem.” He further emphasized that the progress underscores the government’s commitment to “Antyodaya,” the principle of empowering the most marginalized. According to the release, the current data reflects only Phase I of the data pooling initiative, which focused on central sector and women-centric schemes in eight states. With Phase II underway, the government expects total coverage to surpass the 100-crore mark following the verification of additional schemes. India also became the first country in the world to update its 2025 social protection statistics in the ILOSTAT d a t a b a s e , demonstrating its leadership in digital governance and transparent welfare systems. The enhanced coverage is expected to boost India’s efforts in signing Social Security Agreements (SSAs) with d e v e l o p e d nations, enabling the portability of social protection benefits for Indian professionals abroad. These agreements will also provide partner nations with confidence in India’s robust and transparent welfare framework, aiding negotiations related to trade and labour mobility Mandaviya is leading India’s delegation to the 113th session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva from June 10 to 12. (ANI) India’s Social Security Coverage Soars to 64.3% in 2025, Up from 19% in 2015: ILOSTAT
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June 20, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Tragedy in Ahmedabad: Air India Flight AI 171 Crashes During Takeoff, 242 Onboard,241 people out of the 242 announced an ex-gratia financial support will assist One Survivor Found A I C families. More details are IR NDIA RASH FROM PAGE 1 swiftly by instructing officials to initiate rescue operations without delay and ordered the creation of a green corridor to expedite the transfer of the injured to hospitals. He personally contacted Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and other senior officials to oversee coordination and ensure adequate hospital arrangements. As a precautionary measure, all flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have been suspended until further notice. Passengers scheduled to travel from Ahmedabad have been advised to contact their airlines directly for updates. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a full investigation into the incident. Preliminary reports confirm that a MAYDAY call was received, but the flight did not respond to subsequent communication. Investigators are now working to recover the black box and cockpit voice recorder to determine the cause of the crash. Aviation safety experts from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have also been deployed to the site. Air India has pledged full cooperation with authorities during the inquiry. As families await updates with heavy hearts, and emergency workers continue the grim task of recovery, India is left mourning one of the most tragic air disasters in recent years. The thoughts and prayers of the nation go out to the victims and their The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- June 13, 2025 The Lie called “Peaceful Protest” Cars are burning, stores are looted, cops are assaulted Rioters waving Mexican flags, burn US flags— But left-wing journalists and politicians in unison cry, “It is a peaceful protest” they all repeat. Whoever says so does not believe what they claim, But forces us to conceal their role in the crime They commit against the state they call home— All to make a few dimes. The audacity to think people will believe their lies, As they speak in unison for their draconian cause, Denying what their own eyes behold every moment, As the fires burn, and the looters loot. It is beyond comprehension—what a plight For common folks who vote these politicians To power—who, in turn, fund the riots and mayhem, Leaving the cities dry, awash in blood. They want to regain the power they have lost, And preserve the power they still retain, So they embroil the cities they govern— Even whole states—without remorse. Human life holds little value; but power— That’s all they want. Once it’s gained, They run the country into the ground, Where mayhem reigns, and coffers are robbed. They let anarchy reign supreme, Prevent the enforcement of laws, Restrain the police, set criminals free, And fund atrocities with public money. Unless taxpayers realize this trap, And disempower dishonest politicians, This will not stop—and we will have To live with the choices of a deceived cult. by Rajan George expected to emerge as the investigation progresses and authorities provide updates on the toll and the identities of the deceased. Air India Announces Rs.25 Lakh Interim Aid for Victims’ Families and Survivor of Ahmedabad Plane Crash New Delhi [India], June 14 (ANI): Air India on Saturday announced an interim financial assistance of Rs.25 lakh (approximately GBP 21,000) each for the families of those who lost their lives and the lone survivor of the tragic plane crash involving its London-bound flight in Ahmedabad. The Boeing 7878 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI171, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The aircraft rammed into the doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College in the Meghaninagar area of Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of on board. Only one passenger, Vishwashkumar Ramesh—a British national of Indian origin— survived the crash and is currently receiving medical treatment. In a post on X, the Tata Group-owned airline stated, “Air India stands in solidarity with the families of the passengers who tragically lost their lives in the recent accident. Our teams on the ground are doing everything possible to extend care and support during this incredibly difficult time.” It added, “As part of our continued efforts, Air India will be providing an interim payment of Rs.25 lakh or approximately GBP 21,000 each to the families of the deceased and to the survivor to help address immediate financial needs. This is in addition to the Rs.1 crore or approximately GBP 85,000 support already announced by Tata Sons.” E a r l i e r on Thursday, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran had 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 payment of Rs.1 crore to the families of the deceased, and assured that the medical expenses of the injured would be fully covered. He also pledged support for rebuilding the BJ Medical College doctors’ hostel, which sustained significant damage in the crash. “There is no compensation that can truly replace the lives lost. However, we hope that this the affected families in the short term as they cope with this unimaginable loss,” Chandrasekaran said in a statement. The crash, which claimed the lives of nearly everyone aboard— including 230 passengers and 11 of the 12 crew members—has shocked the nation and prompted calls for a full investigation into the cause. Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], June 18 (ANI): DNA samples of 190 victims of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad have matched with their family members, and the bodies of 157 victims have been handed over, Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Superintendent Rakesh Joshi confirmed on Wednesday. Joshi said that of the 190 matched DNA samples, 123 are of Indian nationals and 27 are from the United Kingdom. He added that the DNA of a Canadian citizen has also been matched.Addressing a media briefing, Joshi said, “... Till 1045 hours today, 190 DNA samples have matched. Mortal remains of 157 deceased have been handed over to their families... Of the 190 DNA samples that have matched, 123 are Indians, 7 are Portuguese, 27 are from the UK, four are nonpassengers, and one person is from Canada.” He confirmed that the lone survivor in the London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed into a hostel complex of BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area of Gujarat‘s Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, has been discharged and sent back home with his family. “Lone survivor Vishwas has been discharged and sent back home with his family,” he added.Earlier in the day, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Wednesday announced that 184 DNA samples have been matched so far after the tragic London-bound Air India plane crash. In a post on the social media platform X, Sanghavi wrote, “Air India crash update: As of 8 am, 184 DNA samples have been matched.” DNA testing is being conducted by forensic teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU). The crash occurred on June 12, when a London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into a hostel complex of BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area of Gujarat‘s Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The tragedy claimed 241 lives out of 242 onboard, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. (ANI) Air India plane crash: 190 DNA matches confirmed, says Gujarat Home Minister Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
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June 20, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Canada, India agree to Telangana: 5 Members of Same Family Die After resume diplomatic services, designate new High Drowning in Godavari Commissioners River in Basara N i r m a l (Telangana) [India], June 15 (ANI): Five youths from the same family died after drowning in the Godavari River in Telangana’s Nirmal district, police said on Sunday. “Five youths from the same family died after drowning in the Godavari River in Basara. We have taken the five deceased bodies for postmortem examination,” said the Sub-Inspector of Basara police station. Meanwhile, in a similar incident earlier this month, two tourists from Uttar Pradesh drowned in the backwater of Bhushi Dam at Lonavala hill station in Maharashtra’s Pune district on June 9. According to Pune Rural Police, the victims have been identified as Mohammad Jamal, 22, and Sahil Ashraf Ali Sheikh, 19. The police said the duo were swimming with friends when they were swept into a deeper section of the dam. “The victims have been identified as 22-yearold Mohammad Jamal and 19-year-old Sahil Ashraf Ali Sheikh. The duo was visiting the scenic spot with a group of friends. Attracted by the inviting waters, the group ventured into the dam for a swim. However, Jamal and Sahil, unaware of the depth and the powerful water currents, were swept into a deeper section of the dam and drowned before help could reach them,” the police said. After an alert from their friends, local authorities took immediate action and launched a search and rescue operation with the assistance of the Shivdurga Mitra Lonavala Rescue Team. “Despite facing strong currents and tough conditions, the team managed to recover the bodies of both victims,” the police added. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is underway. Bhushi Dam remains a popular tourist destination in Lonavala, particularly during weekends and holidays. Kananaskis [Canada], June 18 (ANI): India and Canada agreed to resume full diplomatic services, ending the thaw between the two countries, triggered by Canadian allegations that Indian agents were involved in the killing of NIA-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Canada in 2023. At the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and both leaders agreed to designate new high commissioners, with a view to returning to regular services to citizens and businesses in both countries, according to a press release from the Prime Minister of Canada. Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the importance of CanadaIndia ties, based upon mutual respect, the rule of law, and a commitment to Her husband insisted she meet him for his birthday: Family of Air India crash victim Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], June 13 (ANI): Among the 241 people who lost their lives in the Air India plane crash in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad a day ago was Harpreet Kaur Hora, who was on her way to London to meet her husband for his birthday. According to her relative, Rajeev Singh Hora, the family was filled with joy as Harpreet prepared for her trip to London. “Before she was leaving for London, everyone sent congratulatory messages, and even spoke to her on the phone. After that, we learned directly from the news about what happened,” Rajeev told ANI. Harpreet’s husband had requested that she meet him in London for his birthday on June 16; therefore, she booked tickets for the fateful flight. The family is now waiting for the DNA test results to confirm her identity, with the last rites to be performed in Ahmedabad. “Her husband insisted she meet him in London for his birthday on 16 June, as she planned to go to London on 19 June. So she booked the tickets for yesterday... Her father’s DNA test was done yesterday. He will be called after 72 hours. The last rites will be performed in Ahmedabad. She got married in 2020,” Rajeev said. Meanwhile, a father’s hope for his daughter to succeed in life through education was crushed after the Ahmedabad plane crash, which killed her along with all others on board except one passenger in Air India’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Payal Khatik was on her way to pursue an M.Tech course at a college in London. Talking to ANI, a relative of Payal Khatik described how her father struggled to find the money for his daughter’s education in London. The relative said that her family placed great hope in her future. “Our relative Payal Khatik was in that flight. She was the daughter of our relative Suresh Khatik. We all went to see her off for her flight. When we learned about the plane crash, we travelled again to Ahmedabad,” the relative told ANI. “Our DNA samples have been taken... The financial condition of the family is not good. Suresh Khatik supports his livelihood by pulling a loading rickshaw. Payal used to take care of the family by giving tuition to the students... They took loans from the community and other places to support her education in London,” he added. Another victim, Sanket Goswami, who was also heading to London to pursue higher education, was onboard the AI-171 plane, which crashed soon after it took off from the Ahmedabad International Airport, into a medical college complex in Meghaninagar nearby. The victim’s family, residents of Mehsana, said Sanket was passionate and was travelling to London to pursue higher studies. “My nephew lost his only son, Sanket Goswami. He was going to London to study. He was an enthusiastic boy. He has a younger sister,” his relative said. The AI-171 Boeing Dreamliner 7878 aeroplane bound for London’s Gatwick had Her husband insisted she meet him for his birthday: Family of Air India crash victim the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They discussed strong and historic ties between their peoples, partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, and significant commercial links between Canada and India — including partnerships in economic growth, supply chains, and the energy transformation, read the release. Prime Minister Carney also raised priorities on the G7 agenda, including transnational crime and repression, security, and the rules-based order.The discussions on deepening engagement in technology, digital transition, food security, and critical minerals came even as India-Canada ties remain strained due to ongoing political tensions.India has repeatedly voiced concern over extremism and anti-India activities in Canada, urging Canadian authorities to act against such elements. Tensions escalated further when former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that his government had “credible allegations” of India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in 2023. India has strongly denied the allegations, terming them “absurd” and “motivated,” and has accused Canada of giving space to extremist and anti-India elements.In the aftermath, India recalled six diplomats from Canada after they were declared “persons of interest” by Canadian authorities investigating Nijjar’s killing. Nijjar was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023. The diplomatic rift between India and Canada has since widened, with Canada allegedly violating various international norms such as the Vienna Convention, and subjecting Indian diplomats to surveillance–against which the Ministry of External Affairs had lodged a formal protest with the Canadian government. (ANI) crashed shortly after it took off from the Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday. The airline said only one out of the 242 people on board the aircraft survived the crash. The aircraft was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with 8,200 hours of flying experience, assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 flying hours. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is a division of the Ministry of Civil Aviation tasked with probing aircraft accidents in India. A formal investigation has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into the deadly crash of Air India flight 171 that killed 241 people onboard, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed on Thursday.
FRIDAY JUNE 20, 2025 9 Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Family of 5 from Rajasthan meet ill fate before new start in London B a n s w a r a (Rajasthan) [India], June 13 (ANI): A family of five, including three children, from Rajasthan lost their lives in the plane crash in Ahmedabad that claimed the lives of 241 people on Thursday. The tragedy befell the family as they boarded the ill-fated aircraft on Thursday to start a new life in London. The couple, both doctors, along with their three children, lost their lives after Air India 171, bound for London, took off and seconds later sank and descended into a fireball. A last photo of the family, which is making the rounds on the internet, shows the members seated next to each other with joy palpable on their faces. Komi Vyas, a doctor in Udaipur, had recently quit her job and was about to move to London with her husband, Prateek Joshi, and their three children. Joshi had moved to London some time ago and returned to Banswara to take the family with him. Several members of their family had arrived at the airport to see them off on the day of the incident. B a n s w a r a Collector Dr. Indrajit Singh Yadav spoke to ANI and said, “A doctor couple and their three children from Banswara died in the plane crash. The husband, a doctor, was based in London, the wife had filed a resignation, and the duo and their kids were going to settle in London.” “We met their family members and offered our condolences on behalf of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. We have been told that it will take up to 72 hours for DNA testing,” he said. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad has recovered a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) from the debris of the Air India plane that crashed in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, killing all passengers and crew members except one. “It’s a DVR, which we have recovered from the debris. The FSL team will come here soon,” an ATS personnel member told reporters. A DVR in an aircraft is a specialised system designed to capture, store, and manage video footage from cameras installed onboard. These systems are crucial for security, training, operational reviews, and compliance with aviation safety standards. While DVRs focus on video, traditional Flight Data Recorders (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR) capture instrument metrics and audio, respectively, for crash investigations. A total of 241 people onboard the Boeing 787-8, Air India flight 171, including 12 crew members, have died in the deadly Ahmedabad plane crash, Air India confirmed post-midnight on Friday. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a review meeting with the officials at the airport in Ahmedabad in the wake of the Air India plane crash incident. The visuals show PM Narendra Modi chairing the meeting while the officials brief him about the accident. PM Modi, earlier on Friday, visited the Air India plane crash site in Ahmedabad and reviewed the ground situation, a day after the AI-171 flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad International Airport. Sharing an X post, the Prime Minister wrote, “Visited the crash site in Ahmedabad today. The scene of devastation is saddening. Met officials and teams are working tirelessly in the aftermath. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy.” Meanwhile, a process of DNA sampling for the identification of deceased passengers of the Air India 171 flight is underway at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad. On Thursday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and obtained detailed information about the entire incident. Shah said that there was no chance of saving anyone in the London-bound Air India plane crash because of the high temperature caused by the burning of almost 125,000 litres of fuel in the aircraft. Expressing condolences to family members of those killed, Shah said the exact number of deaths will be officially released only after DNA tests. Shah revealed that approximately 1,000 DNA tests have been conducted so far. (ANI) should lead to improved safety measures, which will help restore passenger confidence and impact factors like cost of capital,” he said. Earlier in the day, following a directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandating enhanced safety checks on Air India‘s Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 fleet, the airline on Saturday stated that inspections on nine out of its 33 Dreamliner aircraft had been completed. The remaining 24 aircraft are on track to be inspected within the timeline provided by the civil aviation regulator. In a post on X, an Air India spokesperson stated that the safety inspections are being conducted as the 787 fleet returns to India, with each aircraft undergoing thorough evaluations before being cleared for its next operation. The move came following the tragic crash of the London-bound AI171 flight that rammed into a doctors’ hostel of BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad seconds after it took off from the Sardar Vallabhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. (ANI) “Miracle within a tragedy”: Aviation expert on lone survivor of Air India plane crash New Delhi [India], June 15 (ANI): Former General Manager of the Airport Authority of India and noted aviation consultant Gurmukh Singh Bawa called the recent air tragedy a “miracle within a tragedy” after 241 passengers died in the crash with a lone survivor. The lone survivor, identified as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British national of Indian origin, sustained injuries and is undergoing treatment. Bawa said the survival of even one person in such a devastating event was “nothing short of miraculous.” He emphasised that such incidents must not be taken lightly and praised the immediate response from authorities.”This tragedy is a miracle within a tragedy, while it’s heartbreaking that so many lives were lost, the survival of even one person is nothing short of miraculous,” Bawa told ANI. He further appreciated Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu’s response and highlighted the importance of implementing the issued safety directives. “The directives issued in response are commendable, and the drills mandated under these orders should be implemented with full seriousness. The preventive measures suggested are also a welcome step.” Bawa explained that this incident would impact the aviation sector in both the immediate and long term. He stated, “This incident will have far-reaching implications on the aviation industry, some are immediate, like insurance claims, operational costs, and reputational damage that need urgent attention. Others are short-term, including market share and financial performance.” On a more hopeful note, Bawa added that the tragedy could lead to better safety practices in the future. “In the long run, this
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