Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth has thrown his weight behind KL Rahul to retain the crucial No. 5 batting position in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, despite the strong form of Sarfaraz Khan. Srikkanth highlighted Rahul’s experience and overseas success, particularly in Australia, while acknowledging the tough situation for Sarfaraz.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in several parts of West Madhya Pradesh, with widespread precipitation expected in the state and neighboring areas of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan. The active monsoon trough is expected to bring heavy rainfall to multiple Indian states for the next few days.
Canada’s recent measures to curb foreign student inflows are having a significant impact, with study permit approvals projected to fall nearly 50% in 2024. India, a major source of international students, has experienced the steepest decline this year. The stricter financial requirements and a cap on foreign student growth are deterring applicants and pushing Canada to third place as a preferred study destination.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, seeking to mend ties with India, is set to visit New Delhi soon. Two junior ministers, who had made controversial remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, resigned ahead of the visit, likely in an attempt to ease tensions. The visit comes after a period of strained relations between the two countries, marked by the removal of Indian troops from the Maldives and criticism of PM Modi by Maldivian officials.
The Indian government is introducing a revolutionary satellite-based toll collection system that promises to eliminate long queues at highway toll plazas and provide a smoother, more efficient travel experience. This new system, utilizing GPS technology and on-board units, will allow vehicles to pay tolls automatically based on the distance traveled, leading to a hassle-free journey for drivers.
AbhiBus, India’s leading bus ticketing platform, has partnered with FlixBus, Europe’s largest intercity bus service, to bring premium bus travel to India. The collaboration aims to offer travelers a new standard of intercity travel with modern amenities, affordable prices, and a commitment to sustainability.
Rahul Gandhi’s statement in the US about considering scrapping reservations in India has sparked a major political controversy. The BJP has accused him of being against reservation for SCs, STs, and OBCs, while the Congress maintains that reservations will be reviewed only when India becomes a ‘fair place’.
Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems have signed a teaming agreement to strengthen their partnership through the C-130J Super Hercules tactical airlifter, boosting India’s defense and aerospace capabilities. The agreement includes plans for an MRO facility in India and potential C-130J manufacturing expansion for the Indian Air Force’s MTA program.
Amidst the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has praised India’s ‘global role’ and its growing influence in West Asia, particularly highlighting the strengthening ties between India and the UAE. While acknowledging India’s potential role in mediating the conflict, Azar emphasizes that the decision ultimately rests with New Delhi. The statement comes as India continues to reiterate its support for a two-state solution and calls for restraint and de-escalation in the conflict.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his visit to Germany, highlighted the growing defence and security cooperation between the two nations, with plans to welcome German naval ships in Goa next month. He also urged Germany to update its export control regime to foster greater defence collaboration and to increase trade and investment, emphasizing India’s potential as a $4 trillion economy with projected growth of 8% for decades. Jaishankar further advocated for stronger partnerships in innovation, technology, and global issues, emphasizing the importance of Germany’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
