Kolkata High Court Dismisses Petition Against Public Address System Directives
Kolkata, August 18: The Kolkata High Courts division bench dismissed a petition on Tuesday that challenged the West Bengal polices verbal order to remove loudspeakers and microphones from state mosques. While rejecting the petition, Acting Chief Justice Tapobrata Chakraborty and Justice Atarup Banerjee clarified that the court would not issue any orders based solely on ... Read more Kolkata High Court Dismisses Petition Against Public Address System Directives
CID to Investigate Death of Former TMC Councillors Husband in West Bengal
Kolkata, August 18: The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of West Bengal Police has taken over the investigation into the death of Birju Keot, husband of former Trinamool Congress (TMC) councillor Jenny Sharma, which occurred while he was in police custody. Following the incident, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari acknowledged that there was some negligence on the ... Read more CID to Investigate Death of Former TMC Councillors Husband in West Bengal
BJP Threats, State Pressure Led To Kolkata Meet-Up Cancellation: CJP Leader
CJP leader Asutosh Ranka made the allegations in a post on X, claiming that the event at Bharat Sabha Hall was cancelled after the venue owners were allegedly threatened.
CJP event in Kolkata cancelled, Ranka alleges threats from BJP leaders
CJP event in Kolkata cancelled Ranka alleges threats from BJP leaders
From Puchka to a national QSR: Sagar Daryani-backed Wah! Foods targets Rs. 250 crore revenue by FY30
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], August 18: Wah! Foods, the company behind Wah! Puchka and Wah! Litti, has outlined plans to achieve 250 crore in annual revenue by FY30 as it builds a nationally recognised Indian street-food QSR platform.
L&T Finance to open 500 gold loan branches
Non-bank lender L&T Finance is planning to open 500 gold loan branches in this financial year, increasing its network from 330 branches as of March 31, to expand its footprint in the sector that is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 30% for the next two years.The expansion follows the companys entry into the gold loan market last year through the acquisition of the gold loan business of Chandigarh-based Paul Merchants Finance Private Ltd. L&T Finance paid Rs 537 crore for the all-cash deal, which helped it acquire a Rs 1,350 crore loan book, 130 branches and 700 employees.Gold loan serves as one of the key drivers of our growth agenda, as L&T Finance continues its transformation into a risk-first, tech-first, AI (artificial intelligence)-native retail financial institution, chief operating officer Raju Dodti said in Kolkata.Also read: UPI costs Rs 20,700 crore, government allocation just Rs 2,000 crore: Parliament PanelHe said that while the lender aims to grow more than 20% at the enterprise level, its gold loan business is expected to increase over 50%, albeit on a low base.Credit rating agency ICRA projected a more than 30% compound annual growth rate in organised gold loans by banks and non-bank financial companies during 2026-27 and 2027-28, surpassing Rs 30 lakh crore by March 2028 from Rs 18.5 lakh crore at the end of March this year.
Fire breaks out in old ATC building of Kolkata Airport, no injury reported
A fire broke out at the old Air Traffic Control (ATC) building of N S C Bose International Airport here on Tuesday, officials said. There was no report of any injury or any flight disruptions due to the fire, they said. Airport employees noticed the fire on the third floor of the building. Two fire tenders were rushed to the spot, which brought the blaze under control, officials said. The fire was brought under control and did not spread to other parts of the building, Airport director Vikram Singh said. Fire broke out in an open area on the third floor of the old ATC building. It was brought under control and did not spread, Singh said. According to preliminary assessments by fire officials, the old ATC building had been decorated with string lights on the occasion of Independence Day. The fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit in one of the decorative lights. Airport authorities said that there was no major damage in the incident. The exact cause of the fire
Fire At Kolkata Airport's Air Traffic Control Building, Flight Ops Unaffected
According to airport staff, the security guards and other staff on duty suddenly saw flames coming out of the second floor of the ATC building at around 4 am.
Baazar Style Retail locked at 5% upper circuit for 3rd day; here's why
Established in 2013, Baazar Style Retail is a value fashion retailer, based out of Kolkata. It has a strong retail footprint across Eastern India, with a dominant presence in West Bengal.
Gold Rate Today, Aug 18: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across Indian cities on August 18
Historic Building Collapses in Kolkata, One Woman Dead, 19 Trapped
Kolkata, August 18: A portion of a 200-year-old building collapsed early Tuesday morning in North Kolkata after heavy rainfall overnight. The incident resulted in the death of one woman, while 19 others remain trapped under the debris. The deceased has been identified as Urmila Shaw. The building is located on Brajadulal Street in the Shimla-Bedon ... Read more Historic Building Collapses in Kolkata, One Woman Dead, 19 Trapped
Jharkhand Governments Delay Criticized by West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh
Kolkata, August 18: West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh has reacted sharply to the Jharkhand governments decision to cancel the JSSC-CGL exam and all tests conducted by TDP. He stated that the government should have made this decision two weeks ago, avoiding unnecessary drama that has troubled students. Ghosh questioned, Why did the Jharkhand government take ... Read more Jharkhand Governments Delay Criticized by West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh
1 killed, 19 injured after building collapses in Kolkata; rescue operations underway
Vande Mataram added to official events this year; people may take time to adjust to it: CM Omar
Srinagar, Aug 17: J ammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said people will take time to get used to singing the national song as it has been added to official functions only this year. Commenting on the controversy surrounding Congress leaders alleged disrespect to Vande Mataram, Abdullah said there should be no controversy as all verses of the national song were sung. Congress also gave a clarification from its side. It said, look at the video, all three verses of VandeMataram were sung there. So what is the controversy here? They were sung. It will take us a little time to get used to it. This is the first time that this has been included. We are also adjusting a little bit, Abdullah told reporters here. A complaint filed with the Delhi Police recently sought registration of an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for alleged obstruction when Vande Mataram was being sung during the partys Independence Day function at its headquarters in Delhi. The Congress has asserted that there was no attempt to stop the singing of the full version, while maintaining that in 1937, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee in Kolkata decided that the initial stanzas of Vande Mataram would be sung at the Congress sessions. Abdullah said the Independence Day parade on Saturday was the eighth he had attended as the chief minister, but the national song was played for the first time. This was my eighth Independence Day parade, but it was for the first time VandeMataram was included in it. It took me some time to understand that first I will stand up, Vande Mataram will play, then I will unfurl the flag, then the National Anthem will play. Perhaps Congress also took time to adjust; it happens, he said. Abdullah refused to comment on PDP president Mehbooba Muftis post on X in which the former chief minister said she was a dimaaginaxal as she supported the restoration of Article 370. Why are you asking me to explain or speak about what she tweets? It is her Twitter account, her daughter runs it, let her tweet what she likes, he added. On the student protests in Jharkhand, Abdullah said there must be some truth to the protesters demands as the government there has held one round of talks with them. If the students demands are legitimate and correct, then somewhere they should sit down and talk. If they are not, then say it straight that their talk has no weight. If one round of talks has taken place, and you are saying there will be a second round, then somewhere there must be some truth to their demands. Whatever you can do, do it, he added. The chief minister reiterated that matters such as education and health are state subjects as per the devolution of powers. This fault is not just of the BJP; various Central governments have played a role in weakening the states. The agencies that have been formed, the powers these agencies have received -- it is not just because of the BJP. The UPA government, unfortunately, had a role in this, he said. Abdullah said had there not been centralisation of examinations like NEET, BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan would not have had to resign as the exams are held at the state level. If there was a lapse in any state, the minister of that state would be at fault, but centralising resulted in a lapse somewhere, and the Central minister had to resign. What belongs to the state should be left to the state; what belongs to the Centre, the Centre should handle. The Centres habit of interfering in the states is the reason why Dharmendra Pradhan had to lose his job, he added.
Health Ministry backs NMC action on work-hour violations
Srinagar, Aug 17:The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has informed Parliament that the National Medical Commission (NMC) has the power to take action against medical colleges and institutions violating reasonable working hour rules. The statement came in a written reply by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel in the Lok Sabha. In response to questions linked to a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) case and reports of excessive duty hours, Patel said under the Postgraduate Medical Education Regulations (PGMER), 2023, NMC can take action against the medical colleges not adhering to work and rest hour rules. In her reply, the Minister stated: Case No 441/90/0/2025 of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was referred to Ministry to submit the action taken report on a complaint dated March 17, 2025. The matter was examined in the Ministry in consultation with National Medical Commission (NMC) and submitted the report to NHRC. It was stated that as per regulation 5.2 (ii) of the PGMER, 2023, All post-graduate students will work as full time resident doctors. They will work for reasonable working hours and will be provided reasonable time for rest in a day. The NMC is empowered to take action against the concerned medical college or institution, as per specified under Regulation 9.2 of the PGMER, 2023. Patel has also clarified the constitutional position, stating that public health and hospitals is a state subject and that the respective state governments or UT administrations prescribe norms for doctors working hours. They are also responsible for setting service conditions and the duty rosters in the concerned institutions. The parliamentary response also addressed the situation at R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata. The minister said, The incident at R G Kar Medical College, West Bengal was taken up by the Honble Supreme Court of India in SMW (Crl) No 2 of 2024, wherein the court had constituted a National Task Force (NTF) to formulate recommendations for redressal of the issues regarding safety, well-being and working conditions of medical professionals. The report of NTF had been submitted to the court in November 2024. She said that the NMC Anti-Ragging Committee had met on August 14, 2024, to discuss the various aspects of safety and working conditions of medical students and resident doctors. As an immediate step, the NMC issued an Advisory dated August 13, 2024, to all medical colleges and institutions. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Directorate General of Health Services had also directed all Central Government hospitals and institutes, includinbg AIIMS to ensure filing of institutional FIRs within a maximum of six hours in cases of violence against doctors and healthcare personnel. Advisories had also been issued to states and UTs on August 23, 2024, and September 3, 2024, urging a ramp-up of security to medicos, and safer working environments, especially females. The ministers reply is significant in view of the rising incidents of persistent complaints that postgraduate residents in several medical colleges. The medicos have alleged that they are being made to work 80-100 hours a week. This is far beyond what many consider reasonable. A Public Interest Litigation filed by the United Doctors Front in the Supreme Court seeks enforcement of the Ministrys own 1992 directive limiting resident doctors duty to 12 hours a day, and not more than 48 hours a week. The petition had cited the National Task Force report on the mental health of medical students. It recorded over 150 suicides in 5 years. These, as per the PIL were largely linked to work-related stress and sleep deprivation. The Supreme Court had recently adjourned the hearing after the Centres counter-affidavit was not placed on record. The case is listed for 17 September. In J&K, resident doctors at Government Medical College Jammu, Government Medical College Srinagar and other medical colleges have welcomed the ministrys clear restatement. Several postgraduate students described the ministers written reply as an important official acknowledgment. Reasonable working hours and reasonable time for rest, they said, are obligations on the institutions, they said. A resident from GMC Srinagar said, We welcome this statement. What we need now is a transparent, independent audit of actual duty hours, duty rosters and rest periods across all medical colleges in J&K. Only an audit will show how far the ground reality has drifted from the regulations. He urged both the NMC and the J&K Health and Medical Education Department must invoke the penal provisions under Regulations 9.1 and 9.2 of the PGMER, 2023 against non-complying institutions.
Demands for Investigation into Ashish Banerjees Death Intensify
Kolkata, August 18: Ritabrata Banerjee, the leader of the opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, has raised concerns regarding the death of Ashish Banerjee. He has also addressed allegations against Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and MP Kirti Azad. In a conversation with a news agency on Monday, Ritabrata Banerjee stated, We are demanding an investigation ... Read more Demands for Investigation into Ashish Banerjees Death Intensify
Nagaland School Launches Vaccination Drive Against Meningococcal Meningitis
Kolkata, August 18: The Eastern Command of the Indian Armys Spear Corps conducted a special vaccination campaign at the Punglwa Military School in Nagaland on Monday. This initiative aimed to immunize against meningococcal meningitis. During the campaign, a dedicated medical team vaccinated 678 students and staff members. The process included medical examinations, consultations, and post-vaccination ... Read more Nagaland School Launches Vaccination Drive Against Meningococcal Meningitis
Tragic Fire at Tarapith Hotel Claims Eight Lives, Including Five from One Family
Kolkata, August 18: The death toll from the fire at a hotel in Tarapith, Birbhum district of West Bengal, has risen to eight, according to police reports. Among the deceased are five members of a family from Meghalaya who had come to the sacred city to worship at the Tara Temple. The family was staying ... Read more Tragic Fire at Tarapith Hotel Claims Eight Lives, Including Five from One Family
Adolescent Pregnancy: A Major Concern in West Bengal, Says Health Minister Mukherjee
Kolkata, August 18: West Bengals Health Minister, Dr. Sharadwat Mukherjee, has highlighted adolescent pregnancy as a significant concern in the state. This statement comes as the BJP-led government in West Bengal marks its first 100 days in power. The state administration is preparing to present its achievements during this period to the public. Dr. Mukherjee ... Read more Adolescent Pregnancy: A Major Concern in West Bengal, Says Health Minister Mukherjee
RPF Launches Awareness Campaign to Combat Illegal Activities in Kolkata
Kolkata, August 18: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Eastern Railway has initiated a public awareness campaign as part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations. This initiative aims to educate individuals, particularly the youth, about illegal activities that could pose risks to passengers and themselves around railway stations and tracks. The campaign was conducted across ... Read more RPF Launches Awareness Campaign to Combat Illegal Activities in Kolkata
Heavy Rain Forecast for Kolkata and South Bengal, Red Alert Issued
Kolkata, August 18: The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in Kolkata and several districts of South Bengal over the next two days due to an active low-pressure area and monsoon winds. A red alert has been issued for Bankura, West Midnapore, and Jhargram districts for heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday and Tuesday. ... Read more Heavy Rain Forecast for Kolkata and South Bengal, Red Alert Issued
Kirti Azad to Apply for Licensed Pistol Amid Attacks on TMC Leaders
Kolkata, August 18: Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad announced on Monday his decision to apply for a licensed pistol for self-defense. This move comes in response to repeated egg-throwing attacks on party leaders allegedly by BJP workers. Speaking to the media, the MP from Bardhaman-Durgapur stated, Everyone has the right to self-defense. Given the current ... Read more Kirti Azad to Apply for Licensed Pistol Amid Attacks on TMC Leaders
Two Leaders from Bengal Join BJPs National Executive Committee
Kolkata, August 18: Following a significant victory in recent elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed two prominent leaders from West Bengal to its National Executive Committee. This move underscores the importance of the partys West Bengal unit to its national leadership. Among the new appointees is Manoj Tigga, the BJP Member of Parliament ... Read more Two Leaders from Bengal Join BJPs National Executive Committee
No forcible land acquisition, says CM Suvendu Adhikari
Deletion of parents names from voter list cant decide students EWS eligibility: HC
5 of a Meghalaya family among 9 killed in Tarapith fire
Afternoon Rallies, Rain Choke Kolkata Traffic
Blazing entrance, locked exit: Guests climb down 47-ft tree & pipes to escape
Russa Road Building Balcony Collapses, Man Dies
BJP Yuva Morcha neta in food payment dispute
Audit panel formed to check Tarapith hotels, lodges
500 hotels around Tarapith temple complex: Lens on Tarapith-Rampurhat Development Authority
Tarapith looks at blaze impact on multi-crore religion tourism
App goes offline to help enumerators
Same address but different kitchens? Census will count separate households
Work not part of teachers duty hours, job honorarium-based: Census office
Ayushman patients start to trickle in but tech glitch remains a worry
160 kg plants, seeds seized from 2 flyers at airport
535 buildings out of ban shadow, work resumes
Countdown for Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty
Suhel Seth, Esha Dutta, Rituparna Sengupta, Sundeep Bhutoria, Bickram Ghosh, and Vivek Ojha at the Khuti Puja of Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty Durga Puja, Kolkata Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], August 17: One bamboo pole for ceremonial worship went into the ground at the Manicktala Chaltabagan Lohapatty premises on Friday evening and with it, north Kolkata []
1.62 cr applications verified, 3rd Annapurna payment rolls out with 1.45 cr beneficiaries
Large areas of Kolkata and its surroundings waterlogged due to torrential rains
The Knight Riders Group interested in The Hundred: Report
The Knight Riders Group, owners of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is reportedly interested in investing in The Hundred.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Northeast United FC Secure Semifinal Spots in 135th Durand Cup
New Delhi, August 17: Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Northeast United FC have confirmed their places in the semifinals of the 135th Durand Cup. This announcement finalizes all four semifinalists, which include Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Sporting Club Delhi, East Bengal FC, and Northeast United FC. In the third quarter-final match held at Kolkatas Vivekananda ... Read more Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Northeast United FC Secure Semifinal Spots in 135th Durand Cup
2 from Bengal picked for central roles in BJP
Major Gold Seizure at Kolkata Airport: Two Arrested with
Kolkata, August 17: A significant gold seizure occurred at Kolkatas Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Monday, with authorities recovering over 1 crore worth of gold. According to airport officials, approximately 900 grams of gold were confiscated during a raid on a flight arriving from Bangkok. The estimated market value of the recovered gold ... Read more Major Gold Seizure at Kolkata Airport: Two Arrested with 1.35 Crore in Gold
2 more held in Cong neta, son murders
BJP to take 100-day report card to 4 crore Bengal voters
CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum to arrest Mafik murder accused
Bankura Purulia offices, schools to shut at 2pm for Manasa Puja
Cops to probe abetment angle in Asish Banerjee 'suicide
39 FIRs filed: TMC MLA seeks early hearing in HC
BJP Leaders Express Condolences to Family of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee
Kolkata, August 17: Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) visited the family of former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Ashish Banerjee on Monday. Banerjee was found dead at his home in Birbhum district on Sunday morning, with a suicide note discovered at the scene. Ashish Banerjee previously served as the Agriculture Minister in the Mamata ... Read more BJP Leaders Express Condolences to Family of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee
Right to self-defence: Kirti wants gun licence to thwart egg attacks
Strict Action Promised Against Those Responsible for Tarapith Incident: Minister Sukanta Majumdar
Kolkata, August 17: Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar addressed reporters on Monday, discussing various issues, including the unfortunate incident in Tarapith, West Bengal. He stated that the tragedy highlighted the lack of safety measures around hotels during the previous governments tenure. Such incidents should not occur if hotels are equipped with appropriate safety devices. Majumdar assured ... Read more Strict Action Promised Against Those Responsible for Tarapith Incident: Minister Sukanta Majumdar
10 buses kick off Naihati-Joka direct services via Sec V
Bengal ACB arrests cop for bribery, busts illegal blood racket
Kolkata, August 17: Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, emphasized on Monday that Indias youth possess remarkable ambition and capability. He stated, It is our responsibility to connect this potential with future-ready skills and real opportunities. Chaudhary highlighted that the PM-Setu scheme offers a historic opportunity to redevelop ITIs into ... Read more Indias Youth Hold Extraordinary Potential, PM-Setu Can Transform ITIs into Centers of Excellence: Jayant Chaudhary
Two States, Two New Governments, One Question: What Did The First 100 Days Deliver?
On the same weekend in May 2026, two Indian states woke up to political arrangements that would have sounded absurd a decade ago. In Chennai, a film star with no prior governing experience took the oath as Chief Minister, ending 59 unbroken years of Dravidian party rule. In Kolkata, the BJP for the first time [] The post Two States, Two New Governments, One Question: What Did The First 100 Days Deliver? appeared first on The Commune .
West Bengal STF Arrests Two for Attempting to Form Jihadi Module Inspired by Al-Qaeda
Kolkata, August 17: The Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police has arrested two individuals for allegedly attempting to establish a jihadi module inspired by Al-Qaeda in the state. Based on intelligence, STF officials conducted raids on Sunday in the Bhangar and Birla Pur areas of the South 24 Parganas district. Janadul Beg was ... Read more West Bengal STF Arrests Two for Attempting to Form Jihadi Module Inspired by Al-Qaeda
Heavy rain in Odisha: Minister Vaishnaw orders close watch on vulnerable rail sections
Kolkatas road-safety push must begin with pedestrians: IIT transport expert
Securing the maritime commons: India
Indias maritime tradition is the worlds oldest, with an unparallelled continuity since the Neolithic Age [9th Millenium BCE]. Golbai Sasan, a Neolithic site on the east coast of India in Odisha state, has provided invaluable archaeological evidence of ship-building activities and sea faring forays. During the Sindhu-Saraswati era [3300-1300 BCE], India had developed a mature sea-faring tradition based on maritime trade. The ancient port of Lothal in Gujarat, constructed around 2300 BCE, is an outstanding example of maritime infrastructure. It had docks, tidal locks and jetties for ships. Sophisticated trade networks and infrastructure linked India with contemporary civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt and China. Vedic era, texts and archaeological evidence suggest early boat-building activities for coastal fishing and commerce. The Rig Veda mentions about Sataritara or the galley with hundred oars. This sea-faring tradition helped develop cartography and study of monsoon-based sailing, using stars for navigation. This rich maritime tradition was consolidated during the Mauryan Empire (324187 BCE) which institutionalized maritime administration by setting up a Department of Waterways and Navigation, headed by the Navadhyaksha (Superintendent of Ships) who regulated shipbuilding, sea trade, and port operations. Ancient Indias greatest strategic thinker Kautilya, wrote a whole chapter in the Arthashastra dedicated to maritime affairs, underlining its strategic importance. In the post-Mauryan period, Roman records show extensive trade with new ports in southern India. Around 30 inscriptions in Tamil-Brahmi, Sanskrit and Prakrit have been identified inside the rock-cut tombs in Egypt's Valley of the Kings in Luxor, from the 1st and 3rd centuries CE. Indian merchants left graffiti as evidence. Hoards of Roman gold coins have been discovered in various sites in southern India. Government of India The Delhi Sultanate, established by Muslim invaders, maintained limited naval forces, for riverine warfare and coastal operations rather than large-scale oceanic campaigns. The Mughal rulers also continued to maintain a navy primarily for security and support to the territorial military. The focus was inwards for the empires expansion. During the 13th century CE, Indias maritime power and commerce reached a peak during the Pala Empire in East India and the Cholazh empire in South India. Under the Cholazh dynasty [9th --13th century CE], large fleets sailed to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and parts of Southeast Asia, including ports in the Srivijaya Empire in Indonesia, spreading Indian religion and cultural influence in South-East Asia. The advent of the Europeans led to the marginalization of Indias maritime control and commerce. Despite British colonial rule, India retained its shipbuilding tradition and continued to build ships. By the 19th century CE, the British monopolized sea-borne commerce, controlling key ports like Bombay (Mumbai) and Calcutta (Kolkata). India became a source for manpower and material. The Royal Indian Marine [1892 CE)] and the Royal Indian Navy (1934 CE) developed with Indian sailors manning both Navy and Merchant ships. Upon gaining Independence in 1947, India inherited a meagre 33 ships and 538 naval officers to protect a coastline of 7,517 kms, 1,280 islands, 14,500 kms of potentially navigable waterways. Indias geographical location makes it proximate to major Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean. With limited maritime capabilities, India avoided entanglement in the bipolar world order and promoted the concept of the India Ocean as a Zone of Peace. After independence, India gave priority to coastal defence and integration of the Princely States. Burdened with land wars in 1948, 1962 and 1965, India was forced to divert resources to the Army and Air Force at the expense of the Navy. India began gradually rebuilding its maritime sector and shipbuilding industry. As Indias economy grew, more resources were provided to the Navy and development of ports, vital for maritime commerce and national security. By the 1990s, the Indian Navy was deployed for UN peace-keeping operations, evacuations of Indian nationals during the war on Iraq and anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. The Navys blue-water capabilities expanded to support maritime security and international sea-borne commerce, aiming to secure the maritime commons. Currently, the maritime arena faces a wide array of challenges - climate change threats, cyclones, sea level rise, human security challenges such as illegal migration, trafficking, piracy, illegal fishing, pollution and sea-bed mining. The strategic overhang of the maritime factor has driven Indias maritime strategy, providing security to around 90% of Indias sea trade. The ongoing war in Iran has highlighted the effort to weaponization of international shipping channels - Hormuz - in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Almost one-third of sailors in the global shipping industry are Indians. Some have lost their lives in the indiscriminate attacks on ships transiting the Hormuz and Bab-al-Mandab. Providing security to international shipping will require diplomacy and dialogue and also a more powerful Navy, to shape a more cooperative geopolitical order. Indias indigenous shipbuilding capabilities have been ramped up. Indias maritime strategy is focussed on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) which is critical for global trade flows - two-thirds of the worlds oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. 40 nations are on its littoral having nearly 40% of the worlds population. Despite the importance of the maritime commons, there are limited security structures that can police this space. Naval ships are bound by restrictions to act against offending or rogue merchant vessels. In 2015, India adopted the SAGAR doctrine [Security And Growth for All in the Region]. This strategy seeks to enhance Indias role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region [IOR] and a first responder in humanitarian and disaster related assistance. India has gone further from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR (Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions), which extends the maritime domain from the regional and security approach into economic diplomacy, technological connectivity and environmental sustainability and maritime domain awareness. MAHASAGAR aims to support technological connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region, relying on joint Naval exercises, sharing data and encouraging peaceful settlement of maritime disputes, Supporting these policy moves is SAGARMALA which supports port-led development initiative to modernize and build ports and manage the shift to more efficient transport coastal and waterway networks to trigger industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable coastal development. International Maritime Bureau To enable international and regional cooperation to secure the maritime commons, India organized the 2016 International Fleet Review (48 navies participated) and biennial MILAN exercises (47 nations participated in 2024) to build cooperation and interoperability. The IOR is monitored by the Information Fusion Centre [IFC] and naval operations across several maritime theatres have helped in combatting piracy, providing safe passage to international cargo ships humanitarian operations. 28 partner nations and international organizations have joined India in tracking maritime traffic, piracy, and illegal activities in the IOR. This strategic shift bolsters maritime security, utilizing the Indian Navys growing blue water deployments. Joint exercises with different navies for maritime security, like the annual Malabar exercises with QUAD partner countries Australia, Japan and USA are conducted periodically. The Indian Navy has spearheaded maritime diplomacy through capacity building, joint exercises, plurilateral conferences, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) activities [Tsunami and Earthquake]. Big power competition is increasing in the IOR, requiring greater vigilance on maritime security. To avoid conflict, India has advocated A free, open, secure and safe Indian Ocean as a shared goal for securing the maritime commons, as envisaged in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Currently, Despite military strikes, commercial navigation through Hormuz remains closed. Iran has weaponized its geography to disrupt one of the worlds most important energy chokepoints, keeping global energy markets under constant pressure and prolonging a worldwide economic shock. Post-Iran war, global power equations will shift decisively to the maritime domain an interconnected world depends on maritime routes, energy corridors, digital infrastructure and financial systems. Nations would now also attempt to control digital nodes, cable landing stations, undersea cable runs, data centres and satellite networks. Amb Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty Eastern Eye Indias comprehensive plan to strengthen its maritime sector was long overdue. India's vast coastline and strategic location in the IOR creates vulnerabilities and exposes it to maritime security threats. Indias maritime reforms and modernization drive mark a pivotal step toward achieving Maritime India Vision 2030 and aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Sustainable Development Goals 14 India has tasked its Navy through Operation Sankalp, to provide escorts for merchant vessels, conduct maritime surveillance across the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, and protect sea lines of communication [SLOC] vital to Indias economy and energy security. India will have to undertake autonomous actions and where ever possible and synchronize actions to secure SLOC. Operation Sankalp is focussed on protecting Indian shipping, preserving freedom of navigation for Indias supply lines and avoiding any regional involvement. Indias policy of strategic autonomy precludes joining any formal coalitions, keeping diplomatic channels active with individual countries in the conflict region. To upgrade its capacity to secure the maritime commons, India is addressing infrastructure gaps, sustainability challenges, workforce inequities and building a truly blue water Navy, with nuclear deterrence capabilities. India aims to become a global maritime hub and a leading maritime power in the next 2-3 decades, to enable it to play a significant player in ensuring the security of the maritime commons. **** [The author, a retired diplomat, served as secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Earlier, he served as Indias High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Ambassador to Thailand.]
'I Got Into A Rabbit Hole': Brook Opens Up On His Backlash In IPL 2023
Indian Premier League: England white-ball captain Harry Brook has opened up on the criticism he faced during his underwhelming and only Indian Premier League season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad. He was being criticised for his innings prior to his century against Kolkata Knight Riders and said he felt glad to shut up the supporters who were slagging me off. Brook mustered only 190 runs in the 2023 season despite having scored a masterful hundred. However, his form dipped thereafter, and he found himself in a pressure cooker. Brook has now reflected on the only season he was part of in the lucrative league, highlighting that he got into a troublesome situation. I got into a little bit of a rabbit hole with scrutiny and social media when I was at the IPL, Brook told BBC Sport. It didn't help me as a person on the field or off the field. I decided to, not stay away from social media, but also not go out of my way to look at it. The England skipper turned his attention to the optimism from that criticism, as he feels that people wanted him to do better. On the other hand, I actually feel it's a little bit of a compliment if people are giving me scrutiny and have an opinion about my game. I know it's not a nice thing to see people slagging you off, but it means people care and people think I can put in a better performance than I have done that day, he said. Brook has now reflected on the only season he was part of in the lucrative league, highlighting that he got into a troublesome situation. I got into a little bit of a rabbit hole with scrutiny and social media when I was at the IPL, Brook told BBC Sport. It didn't help me as a person on the field or off the field. I decided to, not stay away from social media, but also not go out of my way to look at it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking on his exile from the league, Brook said he does ot really have regrets about it. Article Source: IANS
Incessant rain pours misery on Kolkata, adjoining areas; waterlogging, traffic snarls disrupt life
Owing to incessant rain since August 16, many thoroughfares in Kolkata and its adjoining Salt Lake and Howrah got waterlogged.
Gold Rate Today, Aug 17: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across Indian cities on August 17
IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded multiple rainfall alerts after a depression formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas early Monday. According to the IMDs morning bulletin, the system intensified from a wellmarked low pressure and was centred near coastal West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh, close to Kolkata. At 5:30am, [] The post IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
SC Delhi thrash Raengdai 5-1, set up Durand Cup semis against East Bengal
SC Delhi produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat debutants FC Raengdai of Manipur 5-1 on Sunday and set up a semifinal clash against Kolkata heavyweights East Bengal in the Durand Cup. After Chongtham Kishan Singh's (9th) stunning long-range strike had put Raengdai ahead in the first half, substitute Joseph Sunny's (57th, 67th) second-half brace turned the game around. Rodriguinho (82nd), Juan Sebastian Pena (90+3) and Augustine Lalrochana (90+8) were the other SC Delhi goal scorers in the quarter-final match. In Kolkata, a first-half header from PV Vishnu saw East Bengal FC edge past a spirited Indian Army FT side 1-0 in another quarterfinal. The East Bengal versus SC Delhi semifinal will be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on August 19. In Ranchi's Birsa Munda Stadium, it was FC Raengdai who took the lead in spectacular fashion against SC Delhi. Chongtham Kishan Singh unleashed a bullet of a shot from around 20 metres that dipped late, st
7 killed in fire at hotel near Tarapith Temple in Bengal
Hotel officials claimed the fire was caused by a short circuit. A woman from Kolkata, who managed to escape the blaze, recalled the panic inside the hotel.
Bengal hotel fire: 7 charred to death in Birbhum, several critically injured
A massive fire erupted at Hotel Bideshinii in Tarapith early Monday morning. Five guests were killed and several others critically injured in the devastating blaze. The fire quickly engulfed the hotel, trapping many guests who were asleep. Firefighters rushed to the scene and brought the flames under control. Injured individuals were transported to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital.
Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India
Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India Kolkata: Two Nepalese citizens were apprehended with undeclared gold and silver, by troops of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) along the India-Nepal border in West Bengal, officials said. The Border Intelligence Team (BIT) of the 41st Battalion of SSB near Panitanki [] The post Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Gold Rate Today: What Are 24K And 22K Prices In Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata Today?
Silver 999 fine was at Rs 2,37,270 per kg at India level. Silver 925 sterling was at Rs 2,19,475 per kg. Notably, Silver prices have rallied 106.3% over the last one year.
Air-conditioned suburban train services to be extended to Bangaon on India-Bangladesh border
Kolkata, Aug 17 (IANS) The Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway (ER) will extend an air-conditioned EMU local train service up to Bangaon from August 20. The service that now runs between the Sealdah and Barasat stations will be extended up to Bangaon, officials said on Sunday. This will provide a more comfortable journey for commuters. []
Politics a mistake: 5-time TMC MLA, ex-deputy speaker Asish Banerjee dies by suicide
Ex-Howrah councillor Shyamal Mitra held for extortion, fraud
1.2 crore receive Ayushman cards, 80 lakh to get CM health scheme benefits
Shameful & devastating: Asishs death unites netas across the aisle
Annapurna benefit disbursement for 3rd instalment to begin today, distribution to go on till Fri
CM calls for Viksit Paschim Banga to realise Viksit Bharat by 2047
East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win
Kolkata, August 16: East Bengal FC secured a place in the semifinals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup by defeating Indian Army FT 1-0 in a quarterfinal match held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. The only goal of the match came from PV Vishnu in the 38th minute with a header. From ... Read more East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win
East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Victory Over Indian Army FT in Durand Cup
Kolkata, August 16: East Bengal FC secured their place in the semifinals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup by defeating Indian Army FT 1-0 in a quarterfinal match on Sunday. The decisive goal came from PV Vishnu in the 38th minute, courtesy of a header. The match took place at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. ... Read more East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Victory Over Indian Army FT in Durand Cup
Reflector, Paint: KP Starts Overhauling 4k Guard Rails
Ayushman Bharat Cards Bring Hope To Beneficiaries Across State
Filmmaker Raja Sen passes away at 70
Outrage in Kolkata After Young Man Dies Due to Alleged Medical Negligence
Kolkata, August 16: Family members have accused the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata of negligence following the death of a young man. The incident occurred on Sunday, prompting the family to take to social media, urging West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and State Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee to investigate and reform ... Read more Outrage in Kolkata After Young Man Dies Due to Alleged Medical Negligence
Help Develop Lansdowne Market, Set Politics Aside: Minister
Deadline extended but server glitch plagues LPG e-KYC
Stray-feeding row: Woman gets acid attack threat
