July 4, 2025 Friday India This Week 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng New s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tinent Pub li s h ed From th e U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 34 No. 27 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 01-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday July 4, 2025 Quad Launches Critical Minerals Initiative to Boost Regional Prosperity and Security Washington, DC [US], July 2 (ANI): The Foreign Ministers of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia have officially launched the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative, a flagship effort aimed at strengthening economic security and diversifying critical mineral supply chains across the Indo-Pacific. The announcement came during the 10th Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (QFMM), held in Washington, DC, on July 1. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Japan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Takeshi Iwaya, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong reaffirmed their shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. According to a factsheet released by the Office of the US State De- From L to R: Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Takeshi Iwaya, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong Washington [US], June 30 (ANI): The crew of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax4)—Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Group Captain Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, and Mission Specialists Slawosz “Suave” Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu—completed their third day aboard the International Space Station (ISS), advancing critical microgravity research and global outreach initiatives, Axiom Space reported. Commander Peggy Whitson continued her work on the “Cancer in LEO” investigation, capturing imaging samples to better understand how cancer behaves in microgravity. Conducted in collaboration with the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, the study aims to unlock potential treatment approaches for aggressive cancers on Earth. Whitson also documented student experiments for the Saudi Space Agency’s Microgravity Challenge, which received over 80,000 submissions from students across the Arab world. Pilot Group Captain Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla concentrated on a space microalgae experiment, deploying sample bags and imaging algae strains that could serve as future food sources on long-duration space missions. The crew also contributed to the Neuro Motion VR project, in which astronauts use virtual reality headsets to partment spokesperson, the new initiative is part of the Quad’s broader strategic partnership and will drive “economic opportunity and prosperity to our people and the region.” The initiative aims to build collective resilience through cooperation on securing and diversifying critical mineral supply chains, including electronic waste recovery and re-processing. Strengthening Maritime and Economic Security:The Quad is also stepping up its maritime law enforcement cooperation to counter illicit activities such as piracy, drug trafficking, border violations, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. To this end, the first-ever Quad-at-Sea Ship QUAD Meeting See page 6 AX-4 Astronauts Conduct Breakthrough Microgravity Research and Global Outreach Aboard ISS Remember: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Jesus Christ perform cognitive tasks while their brain activity is monitored. This research is designed to improve understanding of how microgravity affects mental and motor functions. Additionally, the astronauts gathered data for the Telemetric Health AI study, which integrates biometric data with mission analytics to assess the effects of spaceflight on cardiovascular and balance systems. Mission Specialist “Suave” Uznanski-Wisniewski worked on the Microfluidic Design experiment using KERMIT imaging tools to analyze fluid behavior in microgravity. The goal is to support the development of autonomous drug testing devices for use in space. As part of their outreach efforts, Tibor Kapu held a virtual interac- tion with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Peggy Whitson and Suave also participated in a discussion on astronaut radiation protection with Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low. Tibor is scheduled to speak with Hungarian journalists about his spaceflight experience, and he and Peggy will record the mission’s first update, offering insights into the crew’s adaptation to space and their ongoing tasks. These scientific and outreach activities follow the successful docking of Axiom Mission 4 with the ISS. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft autonomously docked at 4:05 p.m. IST on Thursday— ahead of schedule—to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. NASA Flight Engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers oversaw Dragon’s automated approach and docking. The Ax-4 crew— former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson; ISRO astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla; ESA astronauts Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary—launched at noon IST on June 25 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
July 4, 2025 Friday India This Week As Trump Makes History Indian Americans Shift Right Wani Ninala Washington D.C. – President Donald J. Trump has the backing of the American people like no other president in history. His historic win showcased the trust Americans of all backgrounds have placed in him as Commander in Chief. President Trump’s return to the oval office demonstrates an unprecedented level of confidence that Americans have placed in his leadership to set the country back on the right path. President Trump instinctively knows what many on the Left refuse to admit. America’s strength as a nation is key to global stability. A strong America creates a stabilizing force for the rest of the world. Trump’s approach to maintaining peace through strength is a departure from the Leftist view that the U.S. is constrained to capitulate to a one world system. America was always meant to be a global leader and Trump operates from that premise. The United States of America is where people from every corner of the world converge to live the American dream. How do Indian Americans view President Trump? A survey by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace found that prior to the 2024 election 1 in 3 Indian Americans planned to vote for Trump. An undeniable shift to the right has become clearly evident during the Trump years. While Indian Americans have typically been democrat leaning the tide is turning as disillusion with the previous administration has set in. Democrats ostensibly looked to minority groups in the past for votes during election cycles, but during the 2024 election Trump outperformed expectations among every category of voter. The Democrat party’s dwindling support across the spectrum among Latinos, African Americans, Native Americans, and Indian & Asian Americans signals a red-pill era. The exploitation of racial divides is no longer the viable tactic that Democrats once thought it to be. In effect, playing the race card just doesn’t work anymore. Certainly not like it did in the past to keep minorities in a tethered grip to the Democrat party. More Americans including Indian Americans are waking up to a stark reality that the party they once aligned with has effectively used its constituents to institute a radical agenda they never agreed to. The party has treated its members as pawns in an attempt to subvert freedoms and undermine America first policy. “Fed up with the last four years of economic stagnation, unlimited illegal immigration, and general incompetence under the Biden administration, Indian Americans came out in historic numbers to give President Donald J. Trump and his agenda to Make America Great Again a resounding mandate,” said Kush Desai, a TrumpVance transition spokesperson. D o m e s t i c a l l y, Americans see Trump as the pragmatic leader who fights for the interests of the working class. He fights through regulations and red tape to help small businesses. He works to keep the cost of living affordable, fuel and grocery prices down, job markets strong, unemployment rates low, neighborhoods and communities safe, and the border secure. Americans also see a president who is rooting out corruption in government and using taxpayer dollars judiciously. On the international front confidence in Trump’s strengths to leverage negotiations and foreign diplo- macy with global leaders is key to maintaining support amongst minority groups. Democrat leaders’ continued stance on open borders which would allow for the influx of criminals, terrorists, and gangs sends the message to Americans that the safety of citizens’ is not of highest priority. The democrat party’s attempt to brand themselves as the party of compassion has fallen flat as constituents witnessed partisan leaders inciting violence, riots, chaos, and disregard for law and order in American cities such as Seattle, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Far left interests have taken precedence over the interests of everyday Americans in the minds of many congressional leaders. The purported compassion on the left, furthermore, is often misplaced as they have become the party of defending criminals to remain in the country despite committing violent crimes on U.S. soil. Maryland democrat Chris Van Hollen’s visit to El Salvador to meet with an MS-13 gang member, paid for by taxpayer funds, highlights how out of touch the Left truly is. Trump on the other hand has become a champion of the middle class. The antithesis of the residency at Stanford and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. In his spare time, he still practices emergency medicine at Memorial Hermann’s Texas Medical Center and teaches residents at the University of Texas’ residency program. Menon served as SpaceX’s first flight surgeon, helping to launch the first crewed Dragon spacecraft on NASA‘s SpaceX Demo-2 mission and building SpaceX’s medical organization to support humans on future missions. He served as a crew flight surgeon for both SpaceX flights and NASA expeditions aboard the space station. For nearly 25 years, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and conducting critical research for the benefit of humanity and our home planet. Space station research supports the future of human spaceflight as NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon under the Artemis campaign and in preparation for future human missions to Mars, as well as expanding commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit and beyond. (ANI) Churachandpur (Manipur), 01 July ANI: Two years after the ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, 2023, over 50,000 people remain displaced, living in cramped and often unhygienic relief camps. Among them is Thaljasei Baite, who now lives in a youth hostelturned-camp in Churachandpur, along with over 500 other displaced Kuki people. Their daily struggle NASA astronaut Anil Menon to embark on his first International Space Station Washington DC [US], July 2 (ANI): NASA astronaut Anil Menon has been assigned his first mission to the International Space Station, serving as a flight engineer and Expedition 75 crew member, NASA said in its official statement.According to NASA, Menon will launch aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft in June 2026, accompanied by Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. After launching from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, the trio will spend approximately eight months aboard the orbiting laboratory. During his expedition, Menon will conduct scientific investigations and technology demonstrations to help prepare humans for future space missions and benefit humanity. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021, Menon graduated with the 23rd astronaut class in 2024. After completing initial astronaut candidate training, he began preparing for his first space station flight assignment. Menon was born and raised in Minneapolis and is an emergency medicine physician, mechanical engineer, and colonel in the United States Space Force. He was born to Indian and Ukrainian parents, tjhe NASA statement added.Menon holds a bachelor’s degree in neurobiology from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and a medical degree from Stanford University in California. Menon completed his emergency medicine and aerospace medicine corrupt career politician and self-serving bureaucrat. A strong effective leader unlike any other in modern history. Trump’s fearlessness in denouncing terrorist organizations, crime cartels, and corrupt government networks is viewed favorably among Indian Americans and other ethnic groups. They feel safer with President Trump at the helm and agree with his commonsense approach on numerous issues. Many Americans, across various ethnic demographics, now view the Democrat party negatively as they witness democratic leaders push woke agendas and ideologies that do little to help working Americans. This includes Indian Americans amongst other ethnic groups. One of the most well-represented groups perhaps in Trump’s cabinet currently is Indian Americans. They also comprise a growing number of MAGA supporters who believe in the sweeping changes the Trump administration has put forth to improve the lives of Americans and to make the nation stronger. It’s a good time to be Indian American in the United States of America and a great time to be Indian American under President Donald J. Trump. Two years on Manipur’s displaced families still wait for peace lack of clean water, proper shelter, and medical car remain largely invisible to the outside world. Children and families suffer silently, carrying the trauma of a conflict that tore their lives apart. Despite efforts by the government and NGOs, peace and normalcy remain distant dreams. This video brings you the untold human stories of those still waiting to return home with dignity, healing, and hope.
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July 4, 2025 Friday India This Week ISKCON temple in US targeted in suspected hate crime; India urges swift action and stands in solidarity Spanish Fork [US], July 2 (ANI): The ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, renowned globally for hosting the annual Holi Festival, has come under attack in a suspected hate crime, with over two dozen bullets fired at the premises over several days, causing significant structural damage. According to ISKCON, 20 to 30 bullets were fired at the temple building and surrounding property during nighttime hours while devotees and guests were inside. The incident resulted in thousands of dollars in damage, including to the temple’s intricately hand-carved arches. Condemning the attack, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed solidarity with the community and urged swift action. In a post on X, it stated, “We strongly condemn the recent firing incident at the ISKCON Sri Sri Radha Krishna temple in Spanish Fork, Utah. The Consulate extends full support to all the devotees and the community and urges the local authorities to take prompt action to bring the perpetrators to justice.” A similar incident had occurred earlier this year when, on March 9, a Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California, was found desecrated just days ahead of a so-called ‘Khalistani referendum’ in Los Angeles, according to temple authorities. The official page of BAPS for the United States shared the details of the March 9 desecration on the social media platform X and emphasised the community’s resilience. “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate... Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail,” BAPS Public Affairs wrote. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) also pointed to the incident on X, linking it to rising anti-Hindu sentiment and noting that the vandalism came shortly before the planned ‘Khalistan referendum’ in Los Angeles.” Another Hindu Temple vandalised, this time the iconic BAPS temple in Chino Hills, CA... Not surprisingly, this happens as the day for a socalled ‘Khalistan referen- dum’ in LA draws close,” CoHNA posted, while listing other recent temple attacks since 2022 and calling for an investigation. Last year, acts of vandalism also targeted the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir New Delhi [India], June 30 (ANI): Railways is undertaking a series of steps to make ticket booking easier, as it is committed to making the endto-end travel experience passenger-centric, Ministry of Railways said in an official statement.Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently reviewed the progress of these reforms. He emphasised that the ticketing system should be smart, transparent, accessible, and efficient. Planning should focus on passenger convenience. The system must ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for our passengers.Currently, the reservation chart is prepared four hours before the departure of the train. This creates uncertainty in the minds of passengers. Wherever passengers are coming from a nearby area to catch the train, this uncertainty can cause serious problems, the statement said. To remove this uncertainty, the railway board has proposed preparing the reservation chart eight hours before the departure. For trains departing before 1400 hours, the chart will be prepared the previous day at 2100 hours. The Railway Minister agreed with this proposal and directed the board to start implementing this in phases so that there is no disruption.According to the Ministry, this move will reduce uncertainties for passengers with waitlist tickets. The passengers will get the first update on waitlist status well in advance. It will benefit passengers travelling from remote locations or the suburbs of major cities for catching long-distance trains. It will also provide more time to make alternative arrangements in case the waitlist is not confirmed.The Railway Minister reviewed the upgradation of the passenger reservation system. The project has been executed in Sacramento, California, on the night of September 25. That incident followed closely after a similar attack on a BAPS temple in New York.Messages such as “Hindus go back” were found scrawled during those attacks, deeply alarming the local Hindu community. Despite repeated provocations, community leaders continue to affirm their unity and commitment to confronting hate. (ANI) for the last few months by CRIS.The new upgraded PRS design is agile, flexible, and scalable to handle ten times the current load. It will significantly enhance the ticket booking capacity. The new PRS will allow over 1.5 lakh ticket bookings per minute. This will be an increase of roughly five times from 32,000 tickets per minute in the current PRS. The ticket enquiry capacity will jump ten times, i.e., from 4 lakh to over 40 lakh per enquiry, which will be possible in a minute time.The new PRS also has a multilingual and user-friendly booking and enquiry interface.In the new PRS, users will be able to submit their choice of seat and see the fare calendar. It also has inte- grated facilities for Divyangjan, students, patients, etc.Streamlined authentication for Tatkal bookings ,Indian Railways will allow only authenticated users to book Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website and mobile app beginning 1st July, 2025.Further, OTP-based authentication will be done for Tatkal bookings from the end of July. The Railways Minister instructed officials to broadbase the authentication mechanism for Tatkal bookings. The authentication should be done using Aadhaar or any other verifiable Government ID available in the user’s DigiLocker account.These measures reflect the continuous efforts of Indian Railways to modernise its systems and make them more citizen friendly. (ANI) Indian Railways to make Passenger Reservation System multilingual with focus on passenger convenience, smart ticketing Heavy rains claim 34 lives in Himachal since June 20: Minister Jagat Singh 17 peo- Baddi. However, the situa- meeting impactwith Negi reviews monsoon on Monday Shimla (Himachal Pradesh. Of these, Pradesh) [India], June 29 (ANI): Heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours has caused significant damage across several parts of Himachal Pradesh, with incidents of landslides, waterlogging, and disrupted connectivity being reported from multiple districts.Revenue, Tribal Development, and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi stated that 34 people have lost their lives in the state since June 20 due to rain-related incidents and accidents triggered by the adverse weather. Speaking to ANI, Negi said, “Since June 20, a total of 34 deaths have occurred in Himachal ple died due to rain-related incidents, and the remaining 17 lost their lives in road accidents.” He further added that nine people were swept away in a flash flood in Dharamshala recently, of which six bodies had been recovered by Saturday evening, and a seventh was recovered today.”The recovered body is yet to be identified. As of now, only one person remains missing in the Dharamshala incident,” he said. In Nalagarh, heavy rains caused waterlogging near Chakki and Jo bridges, with rainwater entering houses in parts of tion is now under control. Jagat Singh Negi further stated that the National Highway-5, which was briefly closed near Chakki Modh, has been restored for single-lane traffic. “The four-lane section has not yet been restored, so traffic is being allowed on a single lane as a precaution,” he added.The minister informed that power transformers, water supply schemes, and DTH infrastructure affected during the previous spell of heavy rain are being restored on a war footing.Jagat Singh Negi also announced that he would hold a high-level review key departments, including Revenue, PWD, Disaster Management, Jal Shakti, and Power, to assess the monsoon preparedness and restoration efforts.” All district disaster management authorities, revenue and police departments, and the State Disaster Management Authority have been put on high alert following the IMD’s warning of continued heavy rainfall,” he said. Meanwhile, in Shimla, minor landslides were reported in Kalini, Mahali, and Dhalli bypass areas, but no significant damage occurred, according to officials.
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July 4, 2025 Friday India This Week Quad Launches Critical Minerals Initiative to Boost Regional Prosperity and Security QUAD Meeting from page 1 Observer Mission was launched this month. Observers from Quad nations have embarked aboard a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, which departed from Palau and will conclude its mission in Guam. The ministers also confirmed that the second Maritime Legal Dialogue will be held later this month, focusing on upholding maritime order. Expanding Regional Maritime Capabilities: The Quad partners will continue to implement the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA), including expanded spacebased data collection, analytical training, and regional capacity building. Efforts are underway to geographically expand IPMDA across the Indian Ocean region and develop a common operating picture. Additionally, the Quad will launch the first Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) workshop in 2025, designed to assess regional maritime capability gaps in consultation with partner nations. Focus on Infrastructure, Energy Security, and Digital Connectivity: The Foreign Ministers reiterated their commitment to resilient supply chains, energy security, and transparent infrastructure projects. As part of this effort, the Quad will launch the Quad Ports of the Future Partnership with a transportation and logistics conference in Mumbai, India, in October 2025. The conference will encourage public-private collaboration in modernizing port infrastructure and logistics. The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- July 4, 2025 The Deceiver’s Creed It is a tall claim for a demagogue to work for the country, But almost all the time, his interest comes first, He would dare not stand for the nation, When his personal goals are at stake He will tell the people what they want to hear, Concealing his secret goals to himself, Never revealing them to his faithful crew Who stands behind him very firm. Men who don the mantle of leadership, are sworn to forgo all that they possess If they are true and honest to themselves They will not be beguiled by comfort or pleasure Sacrifice is their tenet, their wealth, and time And even their life, they will lay down for The trappings of power are never their goal, They forgo all they have in service to the nation. Only such leaders can change the system For benefit of the common man, Those who see power as their goal, Can never effect a change the better They will create a greater swamp And muddle water still, refusing to Change course, to bless the souls Who empowered them heeding their call What an irony? evil forces use good themes To change course for a change for good, And create a greater swamp than the The one already in place! by Rajan George This initiative complements the existing Quad Infrastructure Fellowships Program, which aims to bolster infrastructure expertise across the region. Undersea Cable and Digital Infrastructure Collaboration: To further enhance digital resilience, the US and India will co-host an undersea cables forum this year, with Quad partner participation. The forum will explore opportunities for digital infrastructure collaboration, regulatory harmonization, and improved access for Quad partner companies in digital connectivity projects. Shared Vision for the Indo-Pacific: The four Foreign Ministers concluded the meeting by reiterating their commitment to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. They pledged to continue deepening cooperation on critical and emerging technologies, infrastructure, maritime security, and economic development, underscoring the Quad’s (ANI) “We’re going to have a deal”: Trump on India-US trade talks, says “much less tariffs” will make both sides competitive Washington DC [US] July 2 (ANI): US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) reaffirmed that India-US will soon strike a trade deal with “much less tariffs”, allowing both countries to compete. “I think we are going to have a deal with India. And that is going to be a different kind of a deal. It is going to be a deal where we are able to go in and compete. Right now, India does not accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that, and if they do that, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs,” Donald Trump said.India and the US have been negotiating over a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) before the critical July 9 deadline of the 90day pause on tariff escalations. Meanwhile, India has adopted a firmer stance on agricultural matters as high-stakes trade negotia- 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: Dr. Babu Stephen Chief Editor: Rajan George Contributing Editors: 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 tions with the United States reach a pivotal moment, government sources said on Monday. The Indian delegation, led by Chief Negotiator Rajesh Agrawal, has extended its stay in Washington, as reported by ANI earlier. The two negotiations were scheduled on Thursday and Friday, but have been extended as both nations work urgently to finalise an interim trade agreement before a crucial July 9 deadline. The extended negotiations come as both countries face the looming return of suspended 26% reciprocal tariffs. These punitive measures, imposed initially during the Trump administration on April 2, were temporarily suspended for 90 days but will automatically resume if no agreement is reached.”The failure of these trade discussions would trigger the immediate reimplementation of the 26% tariff structure,” warned a senior official.India’s hardened position reflects the politically sensitive nature of its agricultural sector. The country’s farming landscape is dominated by small-scale sub- sistence farmers with limited land holdings, making agricultural concessions particularly challenging from both economic and political perspectives. Notably, India has never opened its dairy sector to foreign competition in any previous free trade agreement -- a precedent it appears reluctant to break even under US pressure. The United States is pushing for reduced duties on agricultural products, including apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops. Meanwhile, India seeks preferential access for its labour-intensive exports, such as textiles and garments, Gems and jewellery, Leather goods, and agricultural products like shrimp, oilseeds, grapes, and bananas. Beyond the immediate interim agreement, both nations are working toward a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the first phase targeted for completion by fall 2024. The ultimate goal is ambitious: more than doubling bilateral trade from the current $191 billion to $500 billion by 2030. (ANI) 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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July 4, 2025 Friday India This Week Jaishankar calls India-US defence ties ‘most consequential’ during Pentagon meet with US Defence Secretary Washington DC [US], July 2 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon, where he highlighted the strategic importance of India-US defence ties, describing them as “one of the most consequential pillars” of the bilateral relationship. Speaking during the meeting at the Pentagon, Jaishankar said, “I am here with you at the Pentagon because we believe that our defence partnership is, today, truly one of the most consequential.” The meeting comes on the heels of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (QFMM) in Washington, marking another key engagement in a series of high-level India-US interactions. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ex- pressed enthusiasm about the growing defence partnership between the two countries. He highlighted the integration of US defence systems into India’s armed forces and outlined the goal of expanding industrial cooperation and co-production networks.”The US is very pleased for the successful integration of many US defence items… building on this progress, we hope we can complete several major pending US defence sales to India, expand our shared defence industrial cooperation and co-production networks, strengthen interoperability… and formally sign a new framework of US-India major defence partnership,” Hegseth said. He added, “We are eager to work alongside you to realise our shared goals. They are deep and Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], July 2 (ANI): The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court acquitted a 25-year-old man who was earlier convicted for allegedly teasing a minor girl by saying “I love you” back in 2015, overturning the verdict of a lower court. According to the judgment, the man had been sentenced to three years’ imprisonment by a Nagpur sessions court under sections 354-A (sexual harassment) and 354D (stalking) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act. The lower court had viewed his words as stemming from sexual intent. However, the High Court overturned the verdict, observing that merely expressing love verbally does not, in itself, constitute sexual harassment.Justice Urmila Joshi-Phalke, who delivered the judgment, clarified that actions such as inappropriate touching, forcible disrobing, or indecent gestures accompanied by intent to violate a woman’s modesty are essential elements to establish a case of sexual offence. Simply saying “I love you” without any corroborating evidence of such intent does not fulfil the legal criteria. The case dates back to 2015, when the accused allegedly approached a 17-year-old girl on her way home from school. According to the complaint, he held her hand, asked her name, and told her, “I love you.” The girl informed her father, leading to the filing of a police complaint. In its ruling, the High Court noted that there was no proof indicating that the man’s actions were driven by a desire for sexual contact. “The phrase ‘I love you’ alone does not automatically imply sexual intent as defined under the law,” the court stated, adding, “There must be additional factors that point toward a motive beyond mere expression of affection.” Thus, the state of mind, must be to establish some sort of physical contact or must be related to or associated with sex or indicative of involvement of sex in the relationship, if it is to be considered as sexu- ongoing. The visit today marks an important milestone in the ongoing series of high-level engagements between our two great countries.” During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US in February this year, he and then-US President Donald Trump announced plans to sign a new ten-year Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership. Both leaders had also welcomed the significant integration of US-origin defence equipment into India’s military inventory. This includes platforms such as the C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, P-8I Poseidon aircraft, CH-47F Chinooks, MH-60R Seahawks, AH-64E Apaches, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, M777 howitzers, and MQ9B drones.Additionally, the two sides had announced plans to pursue new procurements and co-production agreements for Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles in India to rapidly meet India’s defence requirements this year. (ANI) sulted in two confirmed deaths and two missing, while seven others were evacuated to safety. A major search and rescue operation is ongoing, with the teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed in the affected regions of Karsog, Gohar, and Thunag, the report added. In Balha village (Hamirpur), flash floods stranded multiple families near the Vyas River. “A total of 51 people, including 30 labourers and 21 locals, were rescued by police teams,” said the SEOC. Relief operations are in full swing, with emergency shelters established and essential supplies such as tents, blankets, and food being distributed. In Dharampur’s Triyambla (Serthi) village, 17 families were provided aid after losing livestock and property due to a cloudburst.The SEOC confirmed, “Search and rescue efforts are underway across Mandi with both NDRF and SDRF teams actively engaged.” The Centre continues to monitor rainfall and river levels, especially in vulnerable zones like Jyuni Khad, which is currently flowing above the danger mark.With more rainfall forecast, residents in high-risk zones have been advised to stay alert and follow evacuation instructions issued by local authorities. (ANI) Saying ‘I Love You’ not proof of Himachal Pradesh: 10 dead, sexual intent: Bombay High Court 34 missing as cloudburst and acquits man in POCSO case flash floods hit Mandi al. Words uttered should be with “sexual intent” associated with indicative of involvement of sex or physical contact or expressing sexual overtures. Words expressed “I Love You” would not by itself amount to “sexual intent” as contemplated by the legislature. There should be something more which must suggest that the real intention is to drag in the angle of sex, if the words uttered are to be taken as conveying sexual intent. it should reflect by the act,” the judgment read. The judgment is being seen as a precedent that distinguishes between emotional expression and sexual misconduct, emphasising the need for clear evidence of intent before drawing legal conclusions in such sensitive cases. (ANI) Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 2 (ANI): At least 10 people have lost their lives and 34 remain missing in Himachal Pradesh‘s Mandi district following a series of cloudbursts and flash floods over the past 32 hours, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC). According to the official figures from the SEOC’s monsoon situation report issued at 8:00 AM on July 2, the state has experienced 16 cloudbursts and three flash floods, mostly concentrated in Mandi, causing widespread devastation.As per the SEOC figures, Mandi has turned up as the “epicentre” of the Monsoon disaster. “In several areas of Thunag, Karsog, and Gohar subdivisions, heavy cloudbursts led to massive property loss, missing persons, and fatalities. In Siyanj (Gohar), two houses were washed away, leaving nine people missing, of whom two bodies have been recovered”, SEOC said in their statement. In Kutti Bypass (Karsog), a cloudburst re-
July 4, 2025 Friday Indian Navy’s latest warship INS Tamal commissioned in Russia New Delhi [India], July 1 (ANI): The Indian Navy on Tuesday commissioned its latest stealth frigate, INS Tamal, in Russia, the last warship to have been built outside the country.According to an official release, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal (F71) on July 1 at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, in a ceremony. The signing of the Delivery Act was done by the Commanding Officer Designate and Sergey Kupriynav, Director General of the Russian Naval Department, formalising the transfer of the ship to the Indian Navy.The event was attended by Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. Also present were Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller Warship Production and Acquisition, and Vice Admiral Sergie Lipin, Commander of the Baltic Fleet of the Russian Navy, along with senior officials from the Indian and Russian governments, navies, and defence industries. INS Tamal is the eighth multi-role stealth frigate in the series of Project 1135.6 and the second of the additional follow-on Tushil class of ships.The first ship of the Tushil class (INS Tushil) was commissioned on December 9, 2024, in the presence of the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. All seven ships inducted thus far are part of the Western Fleet - ‘The Sword Arm’ of the Indian Navy under the Western Naval Command. This ceremony marks the formal induction of INS Tamal into the Indian Navy. Captain Sridhar Tata, a gunnery and missile warfare specialist, commands the ship. The ceremony kicked off with an impressive joint Guard of Honour comprising personnel from the ship’s crew and Russia’s Baltic Naval Fleet. The ceremony was declared open by Andrey Sergeyvich Puchkov - Director General United Shipbuilding Corporation. In his inaugural speech, Mikhaeeilv Babich, Deputy Director General of the Federal Service for Military Technical Co- operation of the Russian Federation, spoke about the maritime technological cooperation between the Indian and Russian navies and its growing future trajectory. This was followed by addresses of senior Russian government dignitaries and Vice Admiral R Swaminathan, CWP&A, who highlighted the commissioning of Tamal as symbolic of the strategic partnership between India and Russia.It also exemplifies the collaborative strength and the ability to dovetail the technologies of both nations into one combat platform. He commented that the Indo-Russian strategic partnership has stood the test of time, with Tamal being the 51st ship being produced under this collaborative effort in the past 65 years. He congratulated all those involved in the project, especially the shipyard workers, Indian and Russian OEMs, for their excellent workmanship and flawless integration of indigenous systems, contributing handsomely to the Aatmanirbhar and Make in India initiative of the GOI. This was followed by the signing of the Delivery Act by the Commanding Officer Designate and Mr Sergey Kupriynav, Director General of the Russian Naval Department, formalising the transfer of the ship to the Indian Navy. The next ceremony involved the lowering of the Russian Navy flag, followed by the reading of the Commissioning War- rant issued by the Chief of the Naval Staff to the Commanding Officer. The Indian Naval ensign was hoisted in the presence of distinguished guests, accompanied by the national anthem and a ceremonial salute by the ‘Colour Guard’ proudly presented by the Crew.Simultaneously, the ship’s commissioning pennant was also hoisted, signifying its induction into active Naval service. The pennant will remain aflutter till the time the ship remains in commission.In his address, the Chief Guest, Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, noted that the commissioning of Tamal into the Indian Navy marked a significant milestone in the country’s maritime defence capabilities and Indo-Russian Cooperation.He commented that INS Tamal joins the illustrious list of Talwar, Teg, and Tushil class of ships, renowned for their dependability and prowess. The CinC congratulated the crew and Yantar Shipyard for their efforts in making the commissioning ceremony impressive and memorable. He extended his appreciation to the Russian Ministry of Defence, FSMTC, Rosoboronexport, United Shipping Corporation, Yantar Shipyard, and the Warship Overseeing Team for their relentless efforts in building the warship. “The commissioning of versatile platforms like INS Tamal enhances the Indian Navy’s reach, responsiveness, and resilience,” he said.”I am confident that the ship will prove its mettle as a force multiplier in our operational architecture, towards safeguarding national maritime interests and promoting maritime security,” he said. The Chief guest also acknowledged the Russian Navy and Baltic Fleet for their role in bringing Tamal to its full combat capability and appreciated the commissioning crew for their dedication and professionalism. He remarked that, though being built in Russia, the ship has 26 per cent indigenous components, including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile and HUMSA-NG Sonar system. The construction of the next two ships of the class in India further enhances the scope, potential and wide horizon in harnessing and synergising mutual strengths and joint capabilities. He concluded his address by emphasising that the Indian Navy stands as a credible, capable, cohesive, and future-ready force ready to meet any challenges anytime, anywhere. The Chief Guest was shown around the ship by the Commanding Officer and explained the various upgrades made by the ship in addressing the challenges faced by her sister ships and advancements as compared to the previous classes of ships. This was followed by souvenir exchange before signing the visitors’ book. He then proceeded to interact with the guests and dignitaries at High Tea. INS Tamal is a formidable moving fortress at sea and is designed for blue water operations across the spectrum of naval warfare in all four dimensions ie. air, surface, underwater and electromagnetic. The ship was launched on 24 February 2022. She sailed for her maiden sea trials in November 2024. She completed an exhaustive schedule of Factory Trials, State Committee Trials and the Delivery Acceptance Trials, both in harbour and at sea, by Jun 2025. The ship has successfully carried out trial firing of all her Russian weapon systems, including the vertically launched surface-to-air missile Shtil-1, artillery weapons and torpedoes. Tamal punches well above her weight with dual-role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, vertically launched surface-to-air missiles with extended ranges, the standard 30 MM Close-in Weapon System, the 100 MM Main gun and very potent ASW rockets and heavyweight torpedoes. Tamal is an amalgamation of Indian and Russian technologies with a host of state-of-the-art communication and network-centric operational capabilities. The complement of advanced electronic warfare suite and advanced EO/IR systems adds ears and eyes to this potent platform.The highly versatile combat management 9 system fuses all weapons and sensors into an effective fighting machine. The ship is also capable of embarking the upgraded Anti-submarine and Airborne Early Warning helicopters, the Kamov 28 and Kamov 31, which are formidable force multipliers. The ship has been equipped with complex automated systems for nuclear, biological and chemical defence, including damage control and fire-fighting that can be operated centrally from sheltered posts. These complex systems aid in minimising casualties, achieve rapid restoration of combat effectiveness, and enhance combat capability and survivability. INS Tamal is manned by a crew of about 250 sailors and 26 officers. The officers and sailors of this ship embody the ship’s motto - Sarvatra Sarvada Vijaya (Victory always everywhere), signifying Tamal’s undying commitment to operational excellence in every mission, complementing the Indian Navy’s motto ‘Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready Force Safeguarding National Maritime Interests - Anytime, Anywhere’. The ship will soon embark on her maiden passage back to her homeport of Karwar in Karnataka. Tamal will touch various ports enroute and showcase her combat prowess. It would reach India in combat-ready condition, set to dominate the maritime space. (ANI)
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