People / The Economic Times
To boost agroforestry and double farmers' income, the Centre has introduced model rules for tree felling on agricultural land. These rules aim to simplify permissions, promote sustainable land use, and align with climate goals. By registering on the National Timber Management System (NTMS), farmers can gain transparency and access better market prices for their timber, including international markets.
Former Manipur CM N. Biren Singh stated that efforts are underway to establish a popular government in the state, currently under President's rule. He expressed optimism about forming a new government soon, emphasizing the BJP and its allies' desire for restoration of popular governance.
The Meghalaya Police's SIT is in Indore investigating the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi, exploring potential financial motives beyond the love triangle. Accused, including Raghuvanshi's wife Sonam, were taken to Sohra to recreate the crime scene where chilling details emerged, revealing a planned attack by hitmen. Sonam's actions and Kushwaha's involvement are under scrutiny as the investigation widens.
After six years, the first group of thirty-six pilgrims for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has reached Gangtok. They will acclimatize in the 17 Mile area before proceeding via Nathu La pass. The pilgrims will cross the India-China border on June 20. This year, seven hundred fifty Indian pilgrims are selected for the yatra.
Israeli strikes in Gaza have resulted in at least 16 Palestinian deaths, as the conflict with Hamas continues amidst escalating tensions with Iran. Separately, 11 Palestinians were killed near food distribution points, with conflicting accounts regarding the circumstances of the shootings.
The NIA has filed charges against three individuals, including ULFA (I) chief Paresh Baruah, for plotting IED blasts in Assam during the 2023 Independence Day celebrations. The accused are charged under various acts, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam, visited Meghalaya. They stayed at a homestay. The couple disappeared for hours. Raja paid for the room, coffee, and dinner. Sonam claimed to be fasting. Villagers saw them near a root bridge. The couple checked out early. Raja's body was later found in a gorge. Sonam and others are now in police custody in Shillong.
Lamnunthem Singson, a 26-year-old Air India crew member from Manipur and sole provider for her family displaced by ethnic violence, tragically died in the Ahmedabad plane crash. She last spoke with her mother on June 11, sharing her upcoming London flight plans. Her family, already struggling, now faces immense grief and uncertainty as they await the identification of her body.
BJP's Kanad Purkayastha and AGP's Birendra Prasad Baishya have been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Assam, as opposition parties did not field any candidates. Purkayastha, son of a veteran BJP leader, will debut as a parliamentarian. Baishya, a former union minister, will serve his third term in the Rajya Sabha, filling seats vacated on June 14.
The Meghalaya government rewarded a tourist guide and 35 others for their assistance in locating Raja Raghuvanshi's body and aiding the police investigation. Minister Paul Lyngdoh distributed Rs 5.4 lakh in cash rewards to those who helped in the search operations after Raghuvanshi disappeared with his wife during a vacation.
A 23-year-old woman from Bishnupur district has become Manipur's first confirmed COVID-19 case in the current wave. After developing COVID-like symptoms, she tested positive at a private clinic in Imphal on June 5, with results received on Monday. Health officials are tracing her history and urging public vigilance due to the infection's spread elsewhere.
India has suspended engagement with Pakistan regarding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) until its terrorism concerns are addressed and the treaty is overhauled. Despite Pakistan's repeated requests for discussion, India remains firm on its stance following the Pahalgam terror attack. India is also planning a study to maximize its water usage under the treaty.
ISRO has conducted 122 Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres for its Earth Orbiting Satellites over the past 14 years, with a peak of 23 manoeuvres between 2022 and 2023. The agency analyzes close approaches using data from the US Space Command and its own flight dynamics.
Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel's visit to India aimed to strengthen trade and strategic cooperation, reaffirming commitment to the comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. Khaleel condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack, expressing solidarity with India in combating terrorism. Discussions focused on intensifying political exchanges, defence cooperation, and development partnerships, highlighting Maldives' importance in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
Following recent military escalations, UK strategic experts suggest informal talks between Indian and Pakistani officials in third-party countries as a potential path to stability. The IISS highlights differing narratives and preconditions for dialogue, emphasizing the need for 'track 1.5' dialogues. Concerns over nuclear war risks and the sustainability of the ceasefire underscore the urgency of de-escalation efforts.
To address the ethnic violence in Manipur, the Ministry of Home Affairs has designated a special NIA court in Churachandpur. This court will handle the trial of cases investigated by the National Investigation Agency, including the abduction and killing of six women and children.
Sub Inspector Geeta Samota made history as the first CISF personnel to conquer Mount Everest. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the 56-year-old force. Samota's journey from a hockey player to a mountaineer, scaling multiple peaks including four of the Seven Summits in record time, inspires the nation and the CAPF fraternity.
Indian Space Research Organisation will launch its 101st satellite on May 18. The Earth Observation Satellite RISAT-18 will launch aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. ISRO's Chairman V Narayanan said the programmes ensure the safety and security of the country. Missions are driven by the country's requirements in diverse fields.
Border regions in northern India experienced a respite after days of intense cross-border strikes, following a ceasefire agreement between New Delhi and Islamabad. Markets in Punjab buzzed with activity, though schools remained closed in some districts. Jammu and Kashmir also reported a peaceful night along the Line of Control.
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has garnered praise for its proactive role in the Test retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, with Gautam Gambhir's support. Selectors are prioritizing youth, appointing Shubman Gill as captain and Rishabh Pant as deputy, signalling a long-term vision.
Gujarat Titans' formidable top order, featuring B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, and Shubman Gill, faces a crucial test against Mumbai Indians' potent bowling attack, spearheaded by Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. MI, with a strong home record and six consecutive wins, aims to secure a playoff spot, while GT needs two more victories to ensure their qualification.
Gary Stead will step down as New Zealand's T20 and ODI coach. He is contemplating his role in Test cricket. New Zealand Cricket will soon advertise for the coaching positions. They are open to split coaching roles. Stead led New Zealand to several finals and a World Test Championship victory. He wants to evaluate his options after a busy season.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formed two committees to address the economic impact of new US tariffs. With the steep tariffs threatening Pakistan's exports, the government aims to negotiate with the US for a mutually beneficial resolution. A high-level delegation will soon travel to Washington.
State-owned NHAI plans to develop a 121-km-long Guwahati Ring Road on build-operate-toll mode for Rs 5,729 crore, with a 30-year concession period. The Assam government will cover 50% of land costs and provide tax exemptions. The project includes road widening, bridge construction, and aims to decongest Guwahati, offering improved connectivity to the North-East Region.
China's military carried out extensive drills around Taiwan for a second consecutive day, centering on the Taiwan Strait. The exercises aimed to test capabilities in area control, blockade, and precision strikes, involving significant air and naval participation. Taiwan monitored the situation closely, noting incursions by Chinese military assets.