August
⌨
The day's editorial focus began with ongoing coverage of President Trump's reciprocal tariffs, with reports detailing a temporary delay in the 25% tariff on India until August 7th, while discussions continued on its broader impact and India's potential responses.
Mid-morning saw announcements of the Vice Presidential election on September 9th, alongside Rahul Gandhi's accusations of vote theft against the Election Commission. Editorial attention then sharply shifted to the conviction of former JDS MP Prajwal Revanna in a rape case, which became a prominent domestic legal development.
In the afternoon, the 71st National Film Awards garnered significant media attention, with Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey honored as Best Actors. Concurrently, the tariff narrative re-emerged, emphasizing India's firm stance against US pressure regarding its Russian oil ties and its dismissal of tariff threats.
Mid-morning saw announcements of the Vice Presidential election on September 9th, alongside Rahul Gandhi's accusations of vote theft against the Election Commission. Editorial attention then sharply shifted to the conviction of former JDS MP Prajwal Revanna in a rape case, which became a prominent domestic legal development.
In the afternoon, the 71st National Film Awards garnered significant media attention, with Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey honored as Best Actors. Concurrently, the tariff narrative re-emerged, emphasizing India's firm stance against US pressure regarding its Russian oil ties and its dismissal of tariff threats.
⌨
Indian media on August 2 primarily centered on evolving economic and legal narratives. Following initial reports of President Trump's claims about India halting Russian oil imports and his 'dead economy' remarks, government sources and Prime Minister Modi countered, emphasizing India's economic growth and resilience. PM Modi later amplified a 'Swadeshi' push, directly addressing Trump's declared tariffs. Concurrently, a significant domestic legal development unfolded with former MP Prajwal Revanna receiving a life sentence for sexual assault and rape, a culmination of his recent conviction. The Malegaon blast case also re-emerged with Pragya Thakur alleging coercion to name prominent political figures. Separately, political attention also focused on RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's claims of voter list irregularities, leading to an Election Commission investigation into alleged duplicate voter IDs, adding to the day's diverse editorial priorities.
⌨
Indian media on August 3 prominently featured the escalation of a political controversy surrounding voter identification. The Election Commission issued a formal notice to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav regarding alleged dual voter ID cards, demanding his response. This scrutiny later expanded to include a Left MP’s wife, intensifying the focus on electoral integrity. Concurrently, discussions continued on India’s foreign policy, specifically its resolve to purchase Russian oil despite US pressure, with the Ministry of External Affairs clarifying India’s stance against "disinformation" on potential US tariffs. Domestic events also captured attention, including a tragic road accident in Gonda claiming 11 lives, and an alleged assault by an army officer on SpiceJet staff, leading to serious injuries and an FIR. The Oval Test match also became a focal point in the afternoon.
⌨
The day began with the continued US scrutiny of India's Russian oil purchases, with Trump aides accusing India of financing the Ukraine war and threatening tariffs. This was quickly overshadowed by the news of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren's passing, which garnered widespread condolences across media. Concurrently, the Supreme Court delivered a strong rebuke to Rahul Gandhi regarding his claims about Chinese land occupation and remarks on the Army, questioning his information basis before staying defamation proceedings. By late morning, the thrilling conclusion of the Oval Test match became the overwhelming editorial priority as India secured a dramatic 6-run victory, leveling the series and celebrating Mohammed Siraj's pivotal performance. As the sporting excitement subsided in the afternoon, the focus returned to geopolitics, with former US President Trump renewing his threats to "substantially" raise tariffs on India, alleging profit from Russian oil. India quickly countered, highlighting US and EU trade with Russia.
⌨
Indian media's attention shifted dramatically to a devastating cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Dharali/Uttarkashi region. Emerging in the late morning, reports quickly detailed escalating fatalities and numerous missing persons, including soldiers, as homes and hotels were buried by flash floods and landslides, prompting intensive rescue operations. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump's threats to impose substantial tariffs on India intensified significantly, with a 24-hour ultimatum declared over India's trade relationship and continued friendship with Russia, particularly regarding oil imports. This marked a clear escalation from previous days' discussions on the matter. The demise of Satyapal Malik, former Jammu & Kashmir Governor whose tenure notably saw the abrogation of Article 370, also held prominent editorial focus for a significant part of the day.
⌨
August 6 saw a dramatic escalation in trade tensions as US President Trump imposed an additional 25% tariff on India, raising the total levy to 50%. This action, directly tied to India's continued purchase of Russian oil, immediately became the dominant editorial priority across Indian media, prompting extensive coverage throughout the afternoon. Previously, the morning hours had largely focused on the worsening natural disaster in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, detailing ongoing rescue operations and infrastructural damage from cloudbursts and flash floods, a continuation of concerns from the previous day. A new significant development in the late morning was the announcement of Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to China for the SCO summit, marking his first trip there since the Galwan clash. However, by early afternoon, India's strong condemnation of the new tariff, characterizing it as "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable" and pledging responsive action, commanded almost exclusive attention.
⌨
The day commenced with continued focus on the escalating US-India trade dispute, following President Trump's 50% tariffs. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's firm resolve to protect its farmers, even at a high cost. By late morning, editorial priority dramatically shifted to Rahul Gandhi's widespread allegations of electoral fraud. He accused the Election Commission of colluding with the BJP to manipulate voter lists, presenting "evidence" of irregularities like duplicate entries. The Election Commission responded, challenging Gandhi to submit a sworn affidavit to substantiate his claims. Concurrently, the tariff narrative broadened geopolitically. China and Brazil openly supported India against the US tariffs, criticizing Trump. Reports confirmed Russian President Putin's expected visit to India, with NSA Ajit Doval meeting Putin in Moscow to affirm strategic ties. The ongoing Uttarkashi disaster and the repeated attack on Kapil Sharma's Canada cafe also received significant coverage.
⌨
Indian media primarily focused on the escalating US-India trade dispute throughout the day. Following President Trump's firm stance against trade talks until tariff issues resolved, reports surfaced of major US retailers halting orders from India. Initial reports suggested India had paused or cancelled US weapon purchases and postponed the Defense Minister's US visit, though the Ministry of Defence later denied these claims, asserting purchases remained unaffected. Concurrently, Prime Minister Modi engaged in strategic diplomatic outreach, including talks with Russian President Putin and an SCO summit visit to China. A second prominent editorial priority was Rahul Gandhi's intensifying allegations of 'vote theft' against the Election Commission. Gandhi explicitly challenged the EC to release electronic data and responded to their demand for an affidavit by asserting his parliamentary oath. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal maintained India would not yield to pressure regarding tariffs, countering Trump's 'dead economy' remarks.
⌨
The day's editorial priority overwhelmingly centered on the Indian Air Force Chief's unprecedented revelations concerning "Operation Sindoor." Mid-morning reports detailed the shooting down of 5-6 Pakistani fighter jets and an AEW&C aircraft, attributing success to the S-400 system and political resolve. This disclosure became the dominant narrative, drawing further clarification on operational details, sharp denial from Pakistan, and questions from the Congress party. Concurrently, the US-India trade dispute remained a notable story. While early coverage included President Trump's remarks on trade deals and tariff impacts, India also endorsed the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska as a potential step toward Ukraine peace. Domestically, severe monsoon rains caused widespread flooding in Delhi-NCR, and anti-terror operations in J&K resulted in two soldiers killed.
⌨
The day began with the Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, extensively detailing 'Operation Sindoor,' likening it to a strategic chess game where India held a 'free hand' against Pakistan. Concurrently, the focus increasingly shifted to electoral integrity issues. Tejashwi Yadav's allegations regarding the Bihar Deputy Chief Minister possessing two voter IDs sparked political clashes. Rahul Gandhi's 'vote theft' claims led the Election Commission to issue notices, demanding concrete proof for his voter fraud and double-voting assertions. This prompted the INDIA block to announce a planned march of 300 MPs to the EC office. Separately, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly countered former US President Trump's remarks on India's economy, asserting the nation's rapid development. A new development also emerged with reports of Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's nuclear threat against India, coinciding with Indian and Pakistani naval drills.
⌨
The day saw electoral integrity dominate Indian media. The INDIA bloc's protest march to the Election Commission over "vote theft" allegations escalated into confrontation, with Rahul Gandhi and numerous Opposition MPs detained after breaching police barricades. Key leaders like Akhilesh Yadav were prominent in the direct challenge. This followed earlier reports of a Karnataka minister's ouster over voter list remarks, who later supported Rahul Gandhi's claims, and the Election Commission's public counter-efforts to the allegations. Concurrently, Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir's nuclear threats from US soil continued to draw strong condemnation from India, which highlighted Pakistan's "sabre-rattling" as characteristic behavior and expressed concerns about its nuclear command. This diplomatic tension intensified when essential supplies and newspaper deliveries were reportedly halted for Indian diplomats in Islamabad following "Operation Sindoor," leading to further threats from former Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto regarding the Indus Water Treaty.
⌨
Indian media prominently featured judicial interventions throughout the day. The Supreme Court intensified its scrutiny of the Election Commission, actively questioning alleged irregularities in Bihar's voter lists, including reports of living individuals declared deceased and the validity of Aadhaar as citizenship proof. This continued the previous days' focus on electoral integrity and the "vote chori" campaign. Concurrently, the Lok Sabha officially moved forward with the impeachment process against Justice Varma, forming a three-member inquiry panel to investigate "cash row" allegations. Another prominent judicial directive concerned stray dogs, sparking widespread debate on implementation and shelter challenges. Geopolitical developments included continued diplomatic tensions with Pakistan, marked by threats to India's economic assets, and a significant report signaling the imminent resumption of direct flights between India and China, ending a long suspension.
⌨
The day's editorial focus began with Prime Minister Modi's anticipated US visit amidst trade tensions, and US foreign policy towards Pakistan. Electoral integrity concerns continued, with the BJP alleging Sonia Gandhi's name appeared on voter rolls pre-citizenship. Attention shifted significantly in the afternoon to Rahul Gandhi's appearance in a Savarkar defamation case, where he initially claimed a life threat from a complainant with a "Godse link." This dramatic development was followed by Congress clarifying that his lawyer made the claim without consent, to be withdrawn. Concurrently, the Supreme Court's evolving stance on stray dogs garnered increasing coverage, culminating in the decision to refer the case to a larger three-judge bench following public concerns, indicating a shift from earlier directives.
⌨
Indian media prominently featured the severe cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, near the Machail Mata Shrine, with casualty figures rising rapidly throughout the day, eventually exceeding 50 deaths, and rescue operations continuing. Concurrently, the Supreme Court addressed several significant matters. It reserved its order on the contentious stray dog issue, critiquing civic bodies for inaction, a development that followed days of increasing judicial engagement. The Court also actively scrutinized the Election Commission regarding Bihar's voter lists, directing the publication of deleted voter names and accepting Aadhaar as ID for the process, aligning with previous concerns over electoral integrity. Furthermore, the Supreme Court cancelled actor Darshan's bail in a high-profile murder case. India issued a strong warning to Pakistan, emphasizing "painful consequences" for any "misadventure" and urging temperance in rhetoric. Discussions on US-India relations also continued, with attention on potential tariffs and India's role in US-China dynamics.
⌨
Indian media initially concentrated on the 79th Independence Day, featuring Prime Minister Modi's address from the Red Fort. His speech unveiled significant policy initiatives, including major GST reforms and new large-scale employment schemes, alongside a strong emphasis on indigenous defense via 'Operation Sindoor' and the 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra' project. Modi also delivered firm messages regarding nuclear blackmail and farmers' interests amidst international trade discussions. Later in the day, editorial priority shifted to a tragic domestic incident: the structural collapse near Delhi's Humayun's Tomb, resulting in fatalities and trapped individuals. Concurrently, the anticipated Trump-Putin summit in Alaska gained increasing prominence, with extensive coverage detailing their arrival, handshake, and the commencement of high-stakes talks, particularly concerning a potential Ukraine ceasefire. The ongoing Kishtwar cloudburst aftermath also received continued attention.
⌨
Indian media’s editorial focus on August 16 continued to be heavily shaped by the aftermath of the Trump-Putin Alaska summit. Early reports highlighted the lack of a concrete Ukraine ceasefire deal despite claims of progress, with attention soon shifting to US President Trump’s deferment of new oil tariffs on India for Russian trade, and his plans to meet Ukraine’s Zelenskyy to pursue a direct peace agreement rather than merely a ceasefire. India officially welcomed these talks.
Concurrently, a prominent domestic narrative emerged in the afternoon as the Election Commission of India (ECI) publicly defended its electoral roll preparation process. This came amidst persistent accusations of vote manipulation, with the ECI asserting transparency and urging political parties to raise issues during designated periods, directly addressing a contentious issue from prior days.
Concurrently, a prominent domestic narrative emerged in the afternoon as the Election Commission of India (ECI) publicly defended its electoral roll preparation process. This came amidst persistent accusations of vote manipulation, with the ECI asserting transparency and urging political parties to raise issues during designated periods, directly addressing a contentious issue from prior days.
⌨
Indian media’s editorial focus began with continued coverage of the stalled India-US trade talks, noting the deferment of the US team’s visit amidst tariff discussions. Simultaneously, reports detailed severe cloudbursts and flash floods in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, leading to fatalities, building on earlier natural disaster accounts. By late morning, Prime Minister Modi’s inauguration of significant infrastructure projects in Delhi-NCR captured headlines, aiming to improve connectivity. However, the dominant narrative shifted rapidly with the Election Commission’s strong response to Rahul Gandhi’s “vote theft” allegations. The EC demanded a substantiating affidavit or a public apology within seven days, firmly asserting its impartiality and criticizing the accusations. This confrontation escalated throughout the early afternoon. The major political development later in the day was the National Democratic Alliance’s announcement of Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as its Vice-Presidential candidate, which became the new leading story.
⌨
Indian media's editorial attention centered on the evolving Ukraine peace diplomacy throughout the day. Early reports detailed US President Trump's strong demands to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy regarding NATO and Crimea, preceding Zelenskyy’s arrival for high-stakes talks. A significant development in the late morning was Russian President Putin briefing Prime Minister Modi on his Alaska summit with Trump, specifically concerning US tariffs imposed on India for Russian oil purchases, prompting Modi to hold a key meeting. As the day progressed, the primary focus shifted to Zelenskyy's White House meeting with President Trump and European leaders to discuss a new security arrangement, with Trump indicating his intention to speak with Putin post-discussions. Concurrently, a prominent domestic story involved the opposition's sustained efforts to initiate an impeachment motion against the Chief Election Commissioner over persistent "vote theft" allegations, a continuation of scrutiny from previous days.
⌨
Indian media began the day prominently featuring US diplomatic efforts for Ukraine peace, with President Trump arranging a Putin-Zelenskyy meeting. Domestically, severe monsoon rains intensified in Mumbai, causing widespread disruption and red alerts. By late morning, the Vice-Presidential election took center stage, with the INDIA bloc nominating former Supreme Court Judge B Sudershan Reddy. A temporary shift in editorial focus occurred with the widespread coverage of the Indian cricket squad announcement for the Asia Cup, detailing team selections. However, the escalating Mumbai monsoon quickly regained primary attention, highlighted by a significant monorail breakdown that stranded hundreds of passengers and required rescue operations. Concurrently, the Election Commission continued to face scrutiny over impartiality. Later, reports emerged regarding a proposed bill for the removal of PMs, CMs, and ministers upon arrest in criminal cases.
⌨
The day’s editorial focus in India shifted to intense parliamentary debates surrounding new government bills. These proposed legislations, a development from the previous day, mandate the removal of a Prime Minister, Chief Minister, or minister if arrested or detained for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. When tabled, the bills sparked widespread opposition uproar, marked by members tearing copies and throwing them towards Home Minister Amit Shah, leading to their referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
Concurrently, a new major story emerged in the late morning: the attempted attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during a public hearing, which remained a high-priority item with continuous updates on the investigation and political reactions. In the afternoon, the successful test-firing of the Agni-5 ballistic missile also gained significant attention, highlighting its strategic implications.
Concurrently, a new major story emerged in the late morning: the attempted attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during a public hearing, which remained a high-priority item with continuous updates on the investigation and political reactions. In the afternoon, the successful test-firing of the Agni-5 ballistic missile also gained significant attention, highlighting its strategic implications.
⌨
The day's editorial focus in India commenced with diplomatic discussions, highlighting Nikki Haley's call for the US to view India as a strategic partner against China amidst tariff issues. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar’s visit to Moscow subsequently dominated coverage, featuring his strong critique of US tariffs on Russian oil and culminating in a meeting with President Putin to deepen India-Russia ties. Domestically, the Ahmedabad school stabbing emerged as a major focus, with chilling details surfacing, alongside the swift appointment of Satish Golcha as the new Delhi Police Commissioner following the attack on Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Significant economic policy news included a ministerial panel approving a major GST overhaul, rationalizing tax slabs. By evening, a notable geopolitical development occurred as China publicly backed India against US tariffs, criticizing America's actions as bullying and discussing broader India-China border cooperation.
⌨
The day saw increased US scrutiny on India's global role, with a Trump advisor criticizing Indian oil purchases as a 'Kremlin laundromat'. China, however, publicly backed India against US tariffs. A significant new international development involved the US initiating a review of over 55 million global visas, directly affecting 5 million Indians, which followed an FBI raid on a former Trump advisor critical of US tariffs on India. Domestically, the Supreme Court continued to address major legal matters. It refined its directives on stray dog management, allowing the release of sterilized, non-aggressive canines while stipulating penalties for obstruction. Concurrently, the court criticized political parties for their inaction regarding Bihar's electoral roll revision, directing them to assist citizens in filing claims and accepting Aadhaar for applications. Politically, Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated their support for the controversial bill mandating the removal of jailed leaders, campaigning on an anti-corruption platform in Bihar and Bengal.
⌨
The day opened with Indian media widely reporting Donald Trump's appointment of Sergio Gor as the new US Ambassador to India, amidst discussions on potential US tariff impacts. Concurrently, a cloudburst caused damage in Uttarakhand.
A major domestic development then unfolded in the Dharmasthala case, as the whistleblower was arrested for allegedly fabricating evidence, including a fake skull. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar maintained a firm stance, rejecting US mediation in India-Pakistan conflicts and criticizing US policies on Russian oil.
A significant escalation in India-US trade relations followed, with India Post announcing the suspension of most US-bound parcel services from August 25, directly responding to American duty rules. Domestically, a Congress MLA was arrested in an illegal gambling probe, with substantial cash and gold seized.
Later, PM Modi shared India's vision for deep space exploration and its first Made in India chip.
A major domestic development then unfolded in the Dharmasthala case, as the whistleblower was arrested for allegedly fabricating evidence, including a fake skull. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar maintained a firm stance, rejecting US mediation in India-Pakistan conflicts and criticizing US policies on Russian oil.
A significant escalation in India-US trade relations followed, with India Post announcing the suspension of most US-bound parcel services from August 25, directly responding to American duty rules. Domestically, a Congress MLA was arrested in an illegal gambling probe, with substantial cash and gold seized.
Later, PM Modi shared India's vision for deep space exploration and its first Made in India chip.
⌨
Indian media's editorial focus heavily concentrated on two brutal crime stories, with the Greater Noida dowry death case dominating coverage throughout the day. Reports began with harrowing details of the victim's torture and death, escalating by mid-morning with news of the prime accused husband, Vipin, being shot in the leg during a police encounter after attempting to flee. The narrative intensified as his lack of remorse and the father's plea for a death penalty were highlighted. By early afternoon, the victim's mother-in-law was arrested, accused of complicity. Separately, the gruesome murder and dismemberment of a pregnant wife in Hyderabad emerged as another prominent crime story in the evening. Concurrently, discussions continued around persistent US pressure on India's foreign policy, particularly concerning Russian oil purchases and Donald Trump's stances, a recurring theme from previous days, alongside reports of India's successful indigenous air defense system test.
⌨
The Delhi High Court's decision to quash the CIC order, ruling that Delhi University is not obligated to disclose details of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 1978 graduation degree, became a primary focus across Indian media. Concurrently, discussions around impending 50% US tariffs continued, with Prime Minister Modi affirming India's commitment to finding solutions and strengthening its capabilities despite external pressure, later urging support for 'Swadeshi' products. Union Home Minister Amit Shah maintained his criticism of the opposition regarding jailed politicians, with retired judges condemning his interpretations of a Supreme Court verdict. Separately, the Supreme Court directed influencers to apologize for mocking disabled persons and issued an interim stay on actions against an Ashoka University professor. The ongoing Nikki murder case saw accused sent to judicial custody, prompting broader reports on dowry deaths.
⌨
Indian media's editorial focus converged on the imminent 50% US tariffs on Indian imports, officially effective August 27. Formal notifications were issued, leading to significant market downturns for Sensex and Nifty in the morning. Reports detailed potential economic repercussions for key sectors, reigniting discussions on India's counter-strategies, including a potential India-China deal and a continued 'Make in India' push. Amidst escalating diplomatic tensions, Prime Minister Modi reportedly did not accept calls from US President Trump, though a last-minute high-level meeting resulted in a deal for US fighter jet engines.
Concurrently, a severe wave of natural calamities, including cloudbursts and landslides, struck Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. By early afternoon, these disasters, particularly a deadly landslide on the Vaishno Devi Yatra route leading to multiple fatalities and injuries, temporarily dominated coverage and resulted in the yatra's suspension.
Concurrently, a severe wave of natural calamities, including cloudbursts and landslides, struck Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. By early afternoon, these disasters, particularly a deadly landslide on the Vaishno Devi Yatra route leading to multiple fatalities and injuries, temporarily dominated coverage and resulted in the yatra's suspension.
⌨
The day was dominated by the official implementation of 50% US tariffs on Indian imports, which had been a significant focus of media attention in prior days. Early reports detailed the tariffs' activation, with Prime Minister Modi reiterating calls for national self-reliance amidst recalled threats from US President Trump. Simultaneously, a severe natural disaster unfolded as a devastating landslide on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route resulted in an escalating death toll, which tragically rose to at least 34 by early afternoon. Concurrently, broader monsoon havoc impacted North India, notably with severe flooding in Punjab. As the day progressed, diplomatic tensions surrounding the tariffs intensified, with Prime Minister Modi reportedly avoiding multiple calls from President Trump. This led to India initiating strategic plans for outreach to 40 other nations, aiming to diversify markets and counter the economic impact, including reported production halts in textile sectors. US Treasury officials later signaled potential future reconciliation on the issue, while the RSS chief reinforced the "Swadeshi" mantra.
⌨
The day was significantly shaped by the escalating US tariff dispute, continuing from previous days. Early reports detailed White House advisor Peter Navarro's assertion linking India's Russian oil purchases to the Ukraine conflict, suggesting tariff reductions if India ceased these imports. This was followed by a new explicit tariff threat from US President's advisor Kevin Hassett, who warned of further tariffs if India did not "relent." The economic impact on Indian industries became clearer, with the diamond polishing sector facing significant revenue cuts. Amidst this pressure, Prime Minister Modi scheduled key meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling India's diplomatic efforts to diversify its global engagements. Concurrently, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's extensive statements gained prominence, clarifying the relationship between RSS and BJP, commenting on demographic imbalance, the education system, and affirming no age limit for RSS positions.
⌨
The day's media coverage highlighted Prime Minister Modi's visit to Japan, underscoring deepening bilateral ties. Early reports covered discussions on Quad, AI, and semiconductors, with an evolving focus on India's economic potential. By late morning, concrete outcomes emerged, including Japan's commitment to invest 10 trillion yen (approximately $68 billion) and a joint Chandrayaan-5 lunar mission involving a Japanese rocket to study the moon's South Pole. This diplomatic push occurred against the backdrop of intensified US scrutiny over India's Russian oil purchases, with a Trump aide reiterating "laundromat" jibes and economists linking tariffs to Trump's "personal pique." The announcement of Russian President Putin's December visit to India further signaled a strategic realignment amidst global trade shifts. Domestically, political clashes persisted in Patna over derogatory remarks against PM Modi, with BJP and Congress workers engaging in confrontations.
⌨
PM Modi concluded his visit to Japan, highlighted by rides on the bullet train and a semiconductor plant visit, reinforcing technology and transport ties. This preceded his first trip to China in seven years for the SCO summit, where he received a grand welcome and was scheduled for discussions with President Xi Jinping and Russia's Putin. Concurrently, the ongoing US tariff dispute saw a new development as an appeals court ruled many of President Trump's tariffs illegal. Despite this, Trump remained defiant. Media reports further indicated that a New York Times article alleged Trump imposed tariffs on India due to PM Modi's actions, possibly regarding a Nobel nomination, which reportedly bruised Trump's ego. India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized prioritizing India's permanent interests. Separately, PM Modi spoke with Ukraine's President Zelenskyy before his anticipated meeting with Putin, reaffirming India's support for peace.
⌨
The day's headlines were dominated by Prime Minister Modi's engagement at the SCO summit in China and his bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping. Early reports set the stage, highlighting Modi's first visit in seven years amidst the backdrop of US-India tensions over tariffs and the reported cancellation of President Trump's QUAD summit visit. As their meeting commenced, media focused on the leaders' intent to reset ties and foster mutual trust. Notably, Xi Jinping urged India and China to unite, using the "Elephant and Dragon" metaphor, a message widely interpreted as directed at the US amid tariff disputes. Modi emphasized peace on the border due to troop withdrawals. Later, both leaders stressed developing relations independently of third-country perspectives. Modi also sought China's cooperation against terrorism, which Xi supported. The Foreign Ministry confirmed agreements on border peace and counter-terrorism, framing strong India-China ties as crucial for an "Asian century" and a multipolar world.
Live Headlines From
India