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London Plane Crash: Business Jet Bound for Netherlands Crashes After Takeoff from Southend Airport: 13 July 2025

London: A Beechcraft B200 Super King Air, a twin-engine turboprop jet, crashed shortly after takeoff from London Southend Airport at around 4:00 PM BST on Sunday. The aircraft, en route to Lelystad in the Netherlands, erupted into a massive fireball, sending thick black smoke into the sky that was visible across Essex. The crash triggered a swift and extensive emergency response as authorities rushed to contain the situation.


Immediate Response and Safety Measures

Emergency services, including Essex Police, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, the East of England Ambulance Service, and an air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene immediately after the incident. The area was declared a “serious incident,” and residents were urged to stay away to allow rescue and response teams to operate without hindrance.

Nearby public spaces such as Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club were evacuated as a precaution due to their proximity to the crash site. The airport confirmed significant operational disruption, with all incoming and outgoing flights canceled or diverted for the remainder of the day.




Crash Details and Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses reported the jet appearing to lose control mid-air, banking sharply before crashing nose-first into the ground. Moments later, a giant fireball rose from the crash site, followed by dense plumes of smoke. Several witnesses described feeling an intense heat wave from the explosion. Some bystanders recalled seeing and even waving to the pilots shortly before the crash, making the event especially haunting for those nearby.


Aircraft Details and Flight Purpose

The crashed aircraft has been identified as a Beech B200 Super King Air, measuring approximately 12 meters in length. It was operated by Zeusch Aviation, a Dutch-based aviation company known for medical evacuation and private charter services. The flight departed Southend at approximately 3:48 PM and was headed for Lelystad Airport in the Netherlands.

While this aircraft typically seats 12 to 13 passengers, the exact number of people on board at the time of the crash remains unconfirmed. It is also unclear whether the flight was operating as a charter or medevac service.


Casualties and Investigation Status

Authorities have not yet released any official information on casualties or injuries. It remains uncertain whether there are any survivors or the number of individuals involved. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has been called in to investigate the incident. Specialists will now examine the wreckage, flight recorders (if recovered), weather conditions, and air traffic data to determine the cause of the crash.


Operational Disruption and Airport Status

Following the crash, London Southend Airport suspended all operations. Airlines, including EasyJet, canceled evening services, and passengers have been offered refunds, rebookings, and overnight accommodations. Authorities are working to restore normal operations while ensuring the crash site is thoroughly examined.


Conclusion

The tragic crash at Southend Airport is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in aviation, even for short-haul flights. While emergency services acted swiftly to control the fire and secure the area, questions around what caused the crash and the fate of those on board remain unanswered. As the official investigation gets underway, the public and aviation industry await further updates on the casualties and contributing factors behind this devastating incident.


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Image source: Mint

Tesla’s First Indian Showroom to Launch in Mumbai on July 15, Sparking Excitement Across EV Enthusiasts

Mumbai: In a landmark development for India’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, Tesla is all set to launch its first Indian showroom—a premium Tesla Experience Centre—in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on July 15, 2025. This marks the formal entry of Elon Musk’s EV giant into the Indian automobile market after years of speculation, negotiations, and anticipation.


Teaser Sparks Buzz

Tesla recently sparked widespread excitement by posting a cryptic teaser that read “Coming Soon” on its newly launched Indian account on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). This simple announcement, coupled with media reports and behind-the-scenes preparations, confirmed that the long-awaited entry was finally materializing.


Prime Location and Real Estate Deal

Tesla’s first showroom in India is being set up at the Maker Maxity complex in Bandra Kurla Complex, one of Mumbai’s most prestigious business districts. The company signed a five-year lease for approximately 4,000 square feet of space at one of India’s most expensive commercial real estate locations.



In addition to the showroom, Tesla has leased a 24,565 square foot warehouse in Kurla, which will serve as the company’s service and delivery hub. This two-pronged real estate strategy suggests Tesla is not only focused on retail presence but is also laying the groundwork for customer servicing and logistics in the Mumbai region.


Model Y Import and Pricing Expectations

Between January and June 2025, Tesla reportedly imported nearly $1 million worth of goods to India. This included six Model Y electric SUVs, consisting of five standard range units and one long-range unit. The imported vehicles are currently being prepared for display and test drives.

The Model Y is expected to be the first EV made available to Indian consumers. While its international base price ranges between $32,000 to $46,000, Indian buyers may have to pay significantly more due to the high import duties, which can exceed 70% on completely built-up units under $40,000. This could result in a final sale price of over ₹50 lakh (approximately $60,000), making the vehicle a premium offering aimed at affluent urban buyers.


Regulatory Green Signal and Hiring Drive

Tesla has received clearance from the Maharashtra Regional Transport Office (RTO) to conduct vehicle registration, test drives, and sales at its Mumbai showroom. The company has also ramped up its local operations by hiring store managers, sales executives, service engineers, and customer support staff, indicating a serious long-term commitment to the Indian market.


Sales Strategy: Imports First, Manufacturing Later

For now, Tesla’s India strategy is import-focused. Despite India’s push for local manufacturing under the Make in India initiative and the offer of production-linked incentives (PLI) for EV makers, Tesla is taking a phased approach. The company intends to test demand in India before setting up domestic manufacturing or assembly facilities.

The Indian government had earlier expressed openness to offer Tesla a reduced import duty structure if the company committed to local production. However, Tesla is currently importing fully built units, which attract steep customs duties, making its initial models expensive and targeted towards niche buyers.


Upcoming Deliveries and Expansion Plans

Customer deliveries of Tesla vehicles are expected to begin by late August 2025, about a month after the Mumbai showroom becomes operational. The company is also in advanced stages of planning a second showroom in New Delhi, indicating a strategy to tap India’s two largest and wealthiest metropolitan markets before expanding further.

As the Indian EV market grows, Tesla’s entry is expected to boost competition, accelerate EV adoption, and potentially influence infrastructure development, such as charging stations and EV-friendly policies.


Conclusion

teslaTesla’s first Indian showroom opening on July 15 in Mumbai signifies more than just a commercial expansion—it marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s EV journey. While pricing may remain a challenge due to high import tariffs, Tesla’s presence is expected to elevate consumer expectations, enhance technological benchmarks, and intensify competition in the EV space. The next few months, starting with showroom visits and test drives, will be crucial in determining the brand’s reception among Indian buyers and its longer-term plans for local manufacturing.


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IPL Emerging as the Uplifting ‘New County Stint’ for Young Indian Cricketers Seeking Global Mentorship: 2025

New Delhi: In a notable shift in India’s cricketing ecosystem, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is fast emerging as the “new county stint”—a modern breeding ground where young Indian talent sharpens their game through mentorship from international greats.

Traditionally, budding Indian cricketers would hone their skills with stints in English county cricket, gaining experience in foreign conditions and learning from seasoned professionals. But with the IPL’s increasingly diverse player pool, many young Indians are now receiving that same exposure—at home.

🔹 Jaiswal Soaks in Lessons from Joe Root

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the explosive left-hander who has already impressed at the international level, credits much of his recent maturity to working alongside Joe Root at Rajasthan Royals. “Sharing the dressing room with someone like Root has given me a new perspective—how he reads the game, stays calm, and thinks two steps ahead,” Jaiswal recently told reporters.

🔹 Akash Deep Learns from Hazlewood’s Precision

Pacer Akash Deep, now being closely watched as a future India spearhead, used his time at Royal Challengers Bengaluru to interact extensively with Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood. From seam positioning to mental preparation, Hazlewood’s inputs helped Akash polish his control and rhythm.

🔹 Nitish Reddy Picks Cummins’s Brain

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the promising Andhra all-rounder and IPL breakout star, has repeatedly expressed his admiration for Pat Cummins, his skipper at Sunrisers Hyderabad. The young talent has reportedly sought Cummins’s advice on bowling variations, captaincy mindset, and handling pressure in crunch moments.




🔹 The IPL’s Evolving Role in Player Development

This cultural cross-pollination is gradually making the IPL more than just a commercial T20 spectacle. It is transforming into a high-performance laboratory where India’s domestic stars can accelerate their learning curve. Senior coaches and selectors are increasingly acknowledging this shift.

“Earlier, the county circuit was the rite of passage for technical growth. Today, the IPL dressing room is where you’re just one net session away from a world-class mentor,” said a senior BCCI official.


🔹 Conclusion: A Modern Pathway to Cricketing Maturity

With international stars bringing decades of experience into Indian franchises, the IPL is quietly becoming the equivalent of a global finishing school for India’s next generation of cricketers. For players like Jaiswal, Akash Deep, and Nitish Reddy, these interactions aren’t just fleeting—they’re career-defining.


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Trump Proposes 35% Tariff on Canadian Imports; Carney Pledges Full Defense of Workers & Businesses

Ottawa: In a significant move with broad economic and diplomatic implications, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 35% tariff on all Canadian imports. The measure is set to take effect on August 1, and aims to address concerns over the trade deficit and the flow of fentanyl across the U.S.–Canada border.

The sweeping tariff will affect key Canadian exports including automobiles, agricultural products, aluminum, and lumber—raising serious questions about the future of bilateral trade under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).


🔹 Prime Minister Carney’s Response: “We Stand with Our Workers”

Reacting to the announcement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a strong statement on X (formerly Twitter):

“We have steadfastly defended our workers and businesses—and we will continue to do so. Canada remains committed to fighting the fentanyl crisis and protecting lives on both sides of the border.”

Carney emphasized the government’s intent to protect Canadian economic interests while remaining open to diplomatic solutions.




🔹 Minister Joly Calls for Preparedness Amid Global Uncertainty

Industry Minister Mélanie Joly described the tariff escalation as a reminder of a turbulent global trade environment.

We are not in normal times. The global trade environment is shifting rapidly, and we must remain prepared to protect Canadian jobs and supply chains,” she said, affirming that the government is closely consulting with stakeholders to chart a comprehensive response.


🔹 Market Reactions Signal Investor Concern

The announcement triggered immediate reactions across financial markets. TSX futures dropped by 0.6%, and key U.S. indices such as the S&P 500 and Dow Jones also saw declines, reflecting investor anxiety over rising protectionism and potential retaliation.


🔹 Strategic Challenges Ahead for Canadian Imports

The tariffs challenge the spirit and terms of USMCA, with experts warning of economic strain across North American supply chains. Canada’s focus is expected to shift toward a multi-pronged strategy that includes:

  • Diplomatic negotiations through USMCA mechanisms

  • Accelerated trade diversification with Asia-Pacific and European partners

  • Strengthening domestic manufacturing and agricultural resilience


🔹 Government Weighs Next Steps

Though Canada has not announced retaliatory tariffs yet, senior officials have confirmed that strategic consultations are underway. A cabinet meeting is expected shortly, with emphasis on protecting critical industries without escalating the situation prematurely.


🔹 Conclusion: Trade Relations at a Crossroads

As the August 1 deadline nears, the situation marks a pivotal moment in Canada–U.S. relations. With President Trump asserting a hardline trade policy and Prime Minister Carney defending national economic interests, the coming weeks will determine whether diplomacy or disruption defines the future of North America’s most vital economic partnership.


View Canada’s response. here.

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India Awaits DRDO Recommendation: Cabinet to Decide Between UK’s Rolls‑Royce and France’s Safran for Combat Aircraft Engine: July 2025

New Delhi: The Indian government is poised to make a strategic decision on the future of its next-generation combat aircraft engine development. The Cabinet is currently awaiting a recommendation from the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) on whether to partner with the United Kingdom’s Rolls‑Royce or France’s Safran in co-developing advanced fighter jet engines for the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program.


🔧 Why This Decision Matters

Jet engine technology is a critical bottleneck in India’s defence manufacturing capability. The country has faced challenges in the past, such as delays in engine supply for the Tejas LCA, exposing the risks of dependency on foreign suppliers. A robust, indigenously supported engine partnership would strengthen India’s strategic autonomy and defence preparedness.




🤝 The Contenders: Rolls‑Royce vs Safran

Both companies have offered to collaborate with DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru, including full Transfer of Technology (ToT) and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for engine development.

  • Rolls‑Royce (UK): Proposed a family of high-thrust turbofans, potentially usable across fighter, transport, and civilian platforms. The UK government has backed discussions.

  • Safran (France): Offered to co-develop a prototype based on its M88 engine lineage (used in Rafale fighters), and has signaled support for restarting India’s Kaveri engine program as part of offset commitments.


📈 Strategic Context and India’s Defense Goals

India’s AMCA program aims to introduce a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, with an initial flight expected around 2029–2030 and induction by the mid-2030s. The engines for these aircraft must enable supercruise, stealth, and other advanced capabilities.

Earlier efforts, such as the indigenous Kaveri engine, were unable to meet required performance levels. This has renewed urgency for international collaboration that genuinely builds domestic engine design and manufacturing capabilities.

Further, India is broadening its defense partnerships beyond the United States—engaging not only the UK and France, but also Japan—to co-develop critical aerospace technologies.


📝 Next Steps

  • DRDO is preparing a Cabinet Note, comparing the offers from Rolls‑Royce and Safran.

  • The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has already issued a Request for Information (RFI) and conducted preliminary discussions with potential engine partners.

  • A decision by the Cabinet is expected in the coming months, which will influence India’s capability to build a “Made in India” military jet engine, avoid future supply delays, and possibly enable export opportunities.


Conclusion

India’s upcoming decision regarding its partner for jet engine co-development is not just a technical choice—it is a strategic inflection point. The outcome will shape its aerospace self-reliance, geopolitical positioning, and defence industrial ecosystem for decades to come. It underlines a broader shift towards deep technology collaboration with Western partners, underscoring India’s ambition to bolster both domestic innovation and global strategic autonomy.

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India Advances Quantum Preparedness: A Bold Step Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat- July 2025

New Delhi, July 11, 2025
In a landmark move to future-proof India’s digital infrastructure, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) and cybersecurity leader SISA, launched a whitepaper titled “Transitioning to Quantum Cyber Readiness.” The initiative marks a pivotal stride in India’s journey toward quantum-resilient cybersecurity, positioning the country as a digital-first economy ready for the quantum era.


Why Quantum Readiness Matters Now

As quantum computing moves from lab innovation to operational reality, conventional encryption algorithms like RSA and ECC are at risk of obsolescence. These algorithms currently form the bedrock of digital security systems globally. India, having rapidly emerged as a global leader in digital payments, e-governance, and public digital infrastructure, faces urgent cybersecurity challenges that demand a quantum-safe shift.

The whitepaper, launched in New Delhi, responds to this reality by providing a comprehensive strategic and technical roadmap. It urges both public and private organizations—particularly in critical sectors such as BFSI, healthcare, government, and national defense—to begin timely identification of vulnerabilities and migrate toward quantum-resilient encryption protocols.




Strategic Vision from National Leaders

Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, described quantum preparedness as a “strategic imperative”, emphasizing the need for clarity, agility, and timely resilience-building in ICT infrastructures. He added,

“As we go through digital, AI, and quantum transformations across sectors, this whitepaper provides the right ingredients for building robust cybersecurity frameworks for the future.”

Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In, echoed this urgency, highlighting it’s potential to alter the global threat landscape.

“CERT-In recognizes that computing will fundamentally change the threat landscape. This partnership with SISA is an example of how public-private collaboration can help India build its cyber-resilience at scale.”


SISA’s Expertise

Dharshan Shanthamurthy, CEO and Founder of SISA, emphasized that quantum computing is “not just a faster computer, but a redefinition of computational boundaries.” He added that India, as a leapfrogging digital economy, must secure its foundational systems at the data layer, ensuring trust, compliance, and operational continuity even in a post-quantum world.

SISA’s forensic expertise and CERT-In’s national infrastructure form a powerful alliance for proactive cyber defense. The whitepaper lays down detailed, sector-specific strategies to achieve transition readiness, particularly for entities managing sensitive public data, financial transactions, and national security information.


Key Highlights of the Whitepaper

  • Risk Assessment of traditional cryptographic systems vulnerable to quantum decryption

  • Migration Roadmap toward quantum-resistant algorithms (like lattice-based and hash-based cryptography)

  • Guidelines for Compliance and Integration into existing systems without disrupting operations

  • Recommendations for Public-Private Collaboration to bolster national preparedness

  • Sector-Specific Strategies for BFSI, healthcare, government, defense, and civil infrastructure

The whitepaper also stresses creating awareness and training professionals in quantum-safe practices, establishing research hubs, and formulating regulatory frameworks to accelerate the transition across sectors.


India at the Forefront of Cyber Preparedness

With this launch, India reinforces its commitment to digital sovereignty and cybersecurity leadership. The whitepaper aligns with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, combining indigenous innovation with global best practices to build a robust cyber-resilient ecosystem.

India’s proactive stance places it among a select group of nations preparing for quantum disruption, ensuring its digital backbone remains secure, reliable, and future-ready.


About the Collaborating Agencies

CERT-In
Designated under the IT Act 2000, CERT-In is India’s national agency for cyber incident response. It issues advisories, handles cyber threats, coordinates emergency responses, and collaborates globally on cybersecurity protocols. www.cert-in.org.in

SISA
A globally recognized leader in digital payment security, SISA protects over 1,000 organizations across 40+ countries. As a PCI-certified forensic investigator, SISA combines insight from real-world breaches into preventive cybersecurity solutions tailored for high-risk sectors.


Conclusion:

India’s move to launch a national-level guide for cyber readiness is both timely and visionary. The whitepaper not only offers a strategic foundation for protecting digital infrastructure but also exemplifies the power of public-private collaboration in navigating the complex future of cybersecurity. As India continues its digital transformation journey, embracing quantum-safe principles ensures that innovation and trust evolve hand in hand.


For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Vice-Chancellors: Torchbearers of India’s Intellectual Destiny, Says Dr. Sukanta Majumdar at National Conference on NEP 2020 Implementation

Kevadia, Gujarat | July 11, 2025
In a landmark gathering of academic leaders, the Ministry of Education concluded a two-day Vice-Chancellors’ Conference of Central Universities in Kevadia, Gujarat on July 11, 2025. Attended by Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, and senior officials from the Ministry, the conference provided a robust platform for peer learning, policy alignment, and forward planning under the transformative National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The event brought together Vice Chancellors from leading central institutions, who engaged in intensive dialogue on reshaping higher education to meet the needs of a digitally empowered and globally competitive India by Viksit Bharat 2047.


Dr. Majumdar: “Vice-Chancellors are the Torchbearers of India’s Intellectual Destiny”

In his keynote address at the concluding session, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, MoS for Education, emphasized the pivotal role of Vice-Chancellors in steering India’s intellectual growth. Citing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of unity and education, he stated that NEP 2020 is not just a reform but a renaissance rooted in Indian values and global aspirations.

He highlighted major achievements driven by NEP 2020, such as:

  • 32% growth in female higher education enrolment (from 1.57 crore in 2014–15 to 2.07 crore in 2021–22)

  • Integration of technology in education via SWAYAM, now issuing nearly 9 lakh certificates annually

  • JEE, NEET, CUET being offered in 13 regional languages to foster multilingualism

  • India’s best-ever performance in the QS World University Rankings 2026, with 54 Indian institutions ranked

  • Over 2.75 crore students registered under the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)

Dr. Majumdar urged Vice-Chancellors to accelerate NEP implementation, strengthen research ecosystems, encourage industry collaboration, and promote inclusivity and excellence as core institutional values.




Secretary (HE) Dr. Vineet Joshi: “Institutionalize the Transition, Without Delay”

Delivering the closing remarks, Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary (Higher Education), articulated the structural changes required for full NEP implementation. He emphasized that new systems such as the National Higher Education Qualification Framework (NHEQF), National Credit Framework (NCrF), and the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) must be institutionalized thoughtfully, yet swiftly.

Key expectations outlined included:

  • Embedding SWAYAM, APAAR, and SAMARTH into daily academic and administrative functions

  • Ensuring digital inclusion, credit portability, and blended learning

  • Agile, data-driven, and citizen-centric governance

  • Fostering diversity and inclusion in faculty and student bodies

  • Promoting Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and Bharatiya Bhashas through active student engagement and strategic integration

Dr. Joshi also announced that each Central University would prepare a strategy paper aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047, incorporating themes like multidisciplinary integration, IKS mainstreaming, digital skilling, and innovation-led campus initiatives.


Conference Highlights: Strategy, Equity, Innovation, and Global Engagement

The conference focused on five key pillars of NEP 2020: access, equity, quality, affordability, and accountability.

Day 1 Sessions:

  • Structural Reforms: Implementing NHEQF, NCrF, and FYUP for flexible and multidisciplinary education

  • Future of Work: Aligning curricula with global job trends and emerging tech skills

  • Digital Education: Role of platforms like SWAYAM, SWAYAM Plus, and APAAR in expanding access

  • Equity in HEIs: Addressing socio-cultural and regional disparities

  • IKS and Language Integration: Promoting indigenous knowledge and Bhartiya Bhasha in higher education

  • e-Governance: Institutional transformation through SAMARTH digital systems

Day 2 Sessions:

  • Research and Innovation: Strategies under ANRF, PMRF, and Centres of Excellence

  • Ranking and Accreditation: Strengthening NAAC, NIRF, and global benchmarking

  • Internationalisation: Expanding Study in India and enabling FHEI campuses in India

  • Faculty Development: Leveraging Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme (MMTTP) for pedagogical excellence


Universities Represented and Institutional Collaboration

The conference featured participation from premier institutions such as:

  • University of Delhi, JNU, BHU, Visva-Bharati, Jamia Millia Islamia, IGNOU, TISS, Nalanda University

  • Central Universities of Jharkhand, Tripura, Kashmir, and Assam

  • Kendriya Hindi Sansthan and South Asian University

These universities shared experiential insights on implementing NEP initiatives, fostering a spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange across India’s diverse academic ecosystem.


Conclusion: A Blueprint for Transforming Indian Higher Education

The Vice-Chancellors’ Conference in Kevadia was not merely an academic forum—it was a strategic step toward reimagining India’s higher education landscape in alignment with NEP 2020 and the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. From structural reforms and digital transformation to equity and global positioning, the conference laid the foundation for systemic, sustainable, and inclusive change in higher education.

As Dr. Majumdar aptly stated, Vice-Chancellors are indeed the torchbearers of India’s intellectual destiny, and their collective leadership will be instrumental in steering the nation’s knowledge ecosystem toward global eminence.


Source: PIB

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan Leads National Cotton Strategy Meet in Coimbatore to Boost Productivity and Achieve Self-Reliance: July 2025

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu: In a major push to strengthen India’s cotton sector, Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan chaired a high-level meeting today at the ICAR–Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, to deliberate on cotton productivity enhancement. The meeting, attended by Union Textiles Minister Shri Giriraj Singh, agriculture ministers from Haryana and Maharashtra, senior officials, scientists, Vice Chancellors of agricultural universities, and farmers, focused on identifying actionable solutions to revitalize cotton production in India.


Cotton: Essential to Life and the Nation’s Economy

In his opening remarks, Shri Chouhan invoked the deep cultural and economic significance of cotton. “After food, clothing is the most essential need in life,” he said, underlining the role of farmers as the lifeline of India’s agrarian economy. Referring to Tamil Nadu as a land with a 5,000-year-old civilizational heritage, he described the state as fertile ground for a new cotton revolution.

Shri Chouhan added,

“Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, and our farmers are its soul. In a Viksit Bharat, we should not be dependent on imported cotton. It is our collective responsibility to ensure India becomes self-sufficient in high-quality production.”




Addressing the Challenges

The Minister acknowledged the decline in cotton productivity due to rising pest infestations and the limitations of existing varieties. He stressed the urgent need to:

  • Develop virus-resistant, high-yielding seed varieties

  • Ensure timely delivery of improved seeds to farmers

  • Employ modern agricultural technologies and R&D to maximize yield

  • Maintain a farmer-industry policy balance in trade decisions

He emphasized that while the textile industry’s demand to remove import duties on foreign cotton aims to reduce raw material costs, it must not come at the expense of domestic farmers’ incomes. A balanced approach, he said, is crucial.


Collaborative Strategy

Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh and state agriculture ministers including Shri Shyam Singh Rana (Haryana) and Shri Manikrao Kokate (Maharashtra) echoed the need for coordinated policy measures. They emphasized that state-specific strategies, informed by scientific research and farmer feedback, will be key to unlocking cotton’s potential.

Shri Chouhan also highlighted that today’s meet is part of his broader ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, a national initiative to hold crop-wise and state-wise consultations for comprehensive agricultural development. The earlier meeting in Indore on soybean, and now in Coimbatore, reflects this consultative, inclusive approach.


Outcomes and Way Forward

  • Cotton productivity enhancement identified as a national priority

  • Ministries of Agriculture and Textiles to develop a joint action framework

  • Emphasis on research-based seed development, timely dissemination, and field-level implementation

  • Stakeholder feedback from farmers and universities to guide policy formulation

  • Future meetings to focus on other key crops under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan


Conclusion:

The meeting in Coimbatore marked a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward becoming self-reliant in cotton production, aligning with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. With committed leadership, scientific innovation, and farmer-centric policies, India is poised to reclaim its legacy as a global cotton powerhouse.

As Shri Chouhan aptly noted,

“This is not just a goal, but a national mission. We must achieve it together.”


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

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India’s Maratha Military Landscapes Declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in Proud and Celebratory Moment as 44th Entry for the Nation

New Delhi/Paris, July 11, 2025:
In a significant cultural milestone, the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” has been officially inscribed in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 44th entry. The announcement was made during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. This recognition underscores the Maratha Empire’s exceptional military planning, architectural ingenuity, and enduring legacy across varied Indian terrains between the 17th and 19th centuries.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the global recognition, calling it a proud moment for India and a testament to its rich historical and cultural heritage.


An Architectural Legacy of Strategic Excellence

The Maratha Military Landscapes comprise a network of twelve forts spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. These forts represent a sophisticated understanding of terrain-based defense strategy and indigenous architectural traditions tailored to suit diverse geographic features.

The inscribed forts include:

  • Hill Forts: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, Gingee

  • Hill-Forest Fort: Pratapgad

  • Hill-Plateau Fort: Panhala

  • Coastal Fort: Vijaydurg

  • Island Forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg

These military outposts exhibit an integration of local materials, climate-responsive design, and defensive features that remain unparalleled in South Asian fort-building traditions.




Rigorous Evaluation and International Endorsement

India submitted its nomination for the 2024–25 cycle in January 2024. After an eighteen-month-long evaluation, including on-site inspections by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), the World Heritage Committee approved the inscription on July 11, 2025. During the committee session, 18 of the 20 State Parties expressed support for India’s proposal, following which the decision was unanimously endorsed.

The nomination was recognized under UNESCO Criteria (iv) and (vi), acknowledging the forts as:

  • Outstanding examples of military architecture that illustrate a significant stage in human history

  • Symbols of the Maratha community’s cultural and historical identity through traditions and historical associations

The inscription process saw active involvement from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Government of Maharashtra, and other heritage conservation stakeholders.


Protection and Heritage Management

Out of the twelve inscribed sites:

  • Eight forts – Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee – are already protected under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

  • Four forts – Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgad – are maintained by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra.

Their classification based on topography highlights the Marathas’ strategic acumen in deploying fortification models across coastlines, islands, plateaus, forests, and hilltops.


Strengthening India’s Global Heritage Profile

India now ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of the number of World Heritage Sites. With 62 more sites on its Tentative List, India is actively working to preserve, document, and propose more cultural and natural landmarks for UNESCO consideration.

This inscription follows the 2023 recognition of the Moidams of Charaideo in Assam, adding momentum to India’s heritage diplomacy and preservation efforts. India currently serves as a member of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (2021–2025), reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding global cultural legacies.


Conclusion: Honouring India’s Historic Valor

The recognition of the Maratha Military Landscapes by UNESCO is more than an accolade—it is a celebration of India’s historical resilience, architectural heritage, and cultural continuity. These forts not only symbolize the valor and administrative foresight of the Maratha Empire but also mark India’s growing stature in global heritage forums. The inscription reiterates the country’s deep-rooted civilizational ethos and the ongoing efforts to revive and conserve it for future generations.
It inspires renewed interest in India’s regional histories and their contributions to national identity.
This achievement also reinforces the importance of community participation and state-led preservation in safeguarding India’s monumental legacy.


Source: PIB

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

DoT Launches Nationwide ‘Sanchar Mitra’ Scheme to Empower Youth as Digital Ambassadors: July 2025

New Delhi: In a transformative step toward boosting telecom awareness and digital empowerment, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has officially launched the Sanchar Mitra Scheme across India. The initiative, which taps into the enthusiasm and potential of India’s youth, aims to train student volunteers — now designated as Sanchar Mitras — to act as digital ambassadors, raising awareness on telecom safety, cyber fraud prevention, and responsible digital practices.

The inaugural outreach session of this nationwide initiative was organized by Assam LSA (License Service Area), a field unit of the DoT, on 11 July 2025 at BSNL Bhawan, Guwahati. The event brought together representatives from 18 leading engineering institutions in Assam, including IIT Guwahati, NIT Silchar, IIIT Guwahati, and other government and private colleges, to kickstart this strategic engagement.

High-Level Participation and Visionary Goals

The session was chaired by Ms. Sunita Chandra, Advisor at the Office of DG Telecom, who emphasized the program’s core objective: to bridge the communication gap between telecom initiatives and the public by harnessing the youthful energy of students. “We aim to build a link between citizens and the digital ecosystem by making students our partners in progress,” she stated.

Shri Suresh Puri, Additional Director General and Head of Assam LSA, presented the scheme’s foundation — Connect, Educate, Innovate — explaining how Sanchar Mitras would enhance digital literacy and create a more informed society.

Shri Hemendra Kumar Sharma, DDG (Media), DoT, elaborated on the critical need for telecom literacy, given India’s expanding digital footprint and rising incidents of cyber fraud, misinformation, and misuse of digital platforms. He noted the importance of “taking awareness to the grassroots,” making the role of Sanchar Mitras crucial in building digital resilience.



Sanchar Mitra Scheme: Empowering the Yuva Shakti

Originally piloted in select colleges, the Sanchar Mitra Scheme has now been expanded nationwide under the leadership of Union Minister for Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia. Describing the scheme as a powerful tool aligned with India’s strengths in Democracy, Demography, Digitization, and Delivery, Shri Scindia positioned the scheme as a visionary effort to build a responsible, skilled, and cyber-aware population.

Key features of the Sanchar Mitra Scheme include:

  • Participation of students from domains such as telecom, electronics, computer science, and cybersecurity.

  • Hands-on training provided by experts from DoT, the National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T), and industry leaders.

  • Engagement in community outreach, cyber awareness campaigns, and EMF radiation education.

  • Exposure to next-generation technologies like 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence, and Cybersecurity frameworks.

Opportunities for Innovation and Recognition

The scheme doesn’t stop at awareness building. It fosters innovation and leadership among students by evaluating their impact and offering rewards such as:

  • Internships with the DoT

  • Participation in flagship events like India Mobile Congress

  • Collaboration on national telecom projects

  • Exposure to international policy and telecom standards (e.g., ITU engagements)

Strong Academic Interest and Future Plans

The response from academic institutions has been overwhelmingly positive. Faculty and student leaders at the session expressed interest in becoming early adopters of the initiative, recognizing its dual benefit of civic contribution and professional skill development.

Moving forward, each DoT field unit across India will coordinate with local colleges to nominate Sanchar Mitras and organize outreach drives in their respective regions. The mission is to embed telecom awareness deeply within the social fabric, empowering every citizen to use digital tools wisely and securely.


Conclusion

The Sanchar Mitra Scheme represents a paradigm shift in India’s approach to telecom education and citizen empowerment. By aligning the energy of students with the vision of a digitally safe and inclusive India, the DoT has created a scalable model for grassroots digital transformation. As India marches toward its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, Sanchar Mitras will be the torchbearers lighting the path to a secure, informed, and tech-enabled society.

Source: PIB

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.