Flying abroad gets cheaper as Air India slashes fuel surcharges

The government is demanding answers from Meta following disturbing reports of paid advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material on Instagram within the country. Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has instructed officials to secure a formal explanation from the tech giant. Authorities will probe Instagram's ad review processes, pre-publication checks, and the company's response to the issue, seeking details on their screening mechanisms and preventative measures.

Authorities have directed Google and Apple to remove seven Chinese battery management apps, including BAT-BMS, from their stores. These apps were reportedly misused to remotely disable battery-operated vehicles, such as e-rickshaws, causing significant disruption for drivers. This marks the first government action addressing data security and remote interference concerns linked to vehicle devices, with further app bans anticipated if similar issues arise.

The RSS has expressed deep hurt over the Ayodhya Ram temple donation theft, urging the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to address management deficiencies.Appealing for patience and restraint, the organization warned against anti-Hindu forces exploiting the controversy.The incident has sparked scrutiny over temple finances and security, with authorities launching a probe.The RSS emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to maintain devotees' faith.

Ladakh's political groups and Union home ministry officials held a positive "informal" meeting, finalizing draft minutes of previous talks. A UT-level elected body with significant powers will be established, while statehood remains a long-term aspiration. Discussions also covered customized constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, with both sides expressing optimism about addressing regional concerns and reaching a swift conclusion.

India has launched its first domestically manufactured EXIM grade shipping container, a significant step towards reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Global shipping giant Maersk has ordered 1,000 of these containers, produced in Uttar Pradesh. This achievement underscores India's growing manufacturing prowess and commitment to building robust maritime infrastructure, supported by government initiatives like the Rs 10,000 crore Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme.

A significant power struggle has erupted within the Trinamool Congress as a rebel faction, led by Ritabrata Banerjee, seized control of the party's Kolkata headquarters. This move follows their appeal to the Election Commission to claim the party's name and symbol. The faction asserts its legitimacy amidst ongoing disputes with the Mamata Banerjee-led camp, escalating the internal conflict over organisational leadership.

The RSS has demanded strict action regarding alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations in Ayodhya, welcoming the SIT probe. India maintains the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended due to Pakistan's alleged support for terrorism. The Centre has summoned Meta over child abuse material on Instagram, while a Tibetan activist's self-immolation outside the UN highlights Tibet rights. Police are questioning a friend in connection with the Pune realtor's murder.

Meta officials met with Indian IT ministry representatives following a government notice regarding WhatsApp's new username feature. New Delhi expressed concerns that the feature could facilitate cybercrime, including impersonation and fraud. WhatsApp has stated the feature is not yet live and will include safeguards like optional usage and reserved prominent usernames to prevent misuse. The government awaits a final response before allowing the rollout.

In a significant move, authorities have instructed Google and Apple to take down three Chinese battery management applications—BAT-BMS, Lossigy, and Epoch-i-ion—from their platforms. The apps have allegedly been exploited to remotely shut down battery-operated vehicles like e-rickshaws, endangering the livelihoods of drivers. This highlights a concerning trend, shifting the focus from mere data security to tangible interference with electric vehicles operating on Indian streets, prom

India's stance on the Indus Waters Treaty remains firm, with the agreement suspended due to Pakistan's continued support for cross-border terrorism. The MEA reiterated this position, emphasizing Pakistan's need to cease its sponsorship of terror. Meanwhile, India has communicated its views on the proposed Teesta River project to Bangladesh, assuring cooperation based on mutual understanding and consultations.

The RSS expressed deep pain and anger over alleged donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, demanding strict action against culprits. RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale urged the Hindu community to remain vigilant against those exploiting the incident to defame them. He welcomed the SIT probe and stressed the need for transparent temple administration to uphold devotees' faith.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced a "Ram Raksha" protest starting July 5, alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple.He called for accountability from the BJP, citing sacrifices made during the temple movement and questioning if funds were used to poach opposition leaders. Thackeray vowed that "Hindus will not forgive" such alleged "loot in the name of Hindutva."

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced a "Ram Raksha" protest starting July 5, alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple.He called for accountability from the BJP, citing sacrifices made during the temple movement and questioning if funds were used to poach opposition leaders. Thackeray vowed that "Hindus will not forgive" such alleged "loot in the name of Hindutva."

Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal has accused the Centre of "forcibly imposing" 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20), claiming it damages vehicles and reduces mileage. He plans to write to Prime Minister Modi about widespread public anger. This follows similar criticism from Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge, who alleged the government conducted an "experiment" without adequate consultation. The Petroleum Ministry, however, maintains the Ethanol Blending Programme is scientifically validated.

Japan has reaffirmed its strong backing for India's high-speed rail ambitions, supporting the 2027 target for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor's initial operations. This commitment, alongside a new mobility partnership, signals deeper cooperation in advanced transport. Prime Minister Modi also invited Japanese firms to join India's expansive 7,000-km high-speed rail network vision, underscoring a growing bilateral strategic alliance.