Hariyana, Oct.29,2025:The Rafale sortie Ambala marked a landmark moment in India’s defence story when Droupadi Murmu, President of India, took to the skies aboard the French-made Dassault Rafale fighter jet from Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana on 29 October 2025. This flight, lasting approximately 30 minutes, underscores not only the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF) but also the symbolic commitment of India’s highest constitutional office to its armed forces-
In this article we will explore five incredible insights from this flight, and examine why the Rafale sortie Ambala matters for India’s defence, diplomacy and domestic narrative.

What happened at the Ambala base

The flight itself

On the morning of 29 October 2025, President Murmu arrived at Ambala Air Force Station, where security was tightened and drone flights were restricted around the base.

 She donned a flight suit and boarded the Rafale jet, waving to officials before take-off. The sortie covered around 200 km at a cruising altitude of 15,000 ft, at speeds approximately 700 km/h. (As reported in earlier accounts of the event.) Her pilot for the sortie was Group Captain Amit Gehani, commanding officer of the IAF’s No. 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows”.

The briefing and engagement

Before the flight, the President was briefed on the aircraft’s capabilities, avionics, weapons systems, and the security protocols employed by the IAF. According to reports, she asked questions about how the aircraft is operated, maintained, and its role in India’s defence network. The briefing underlines how the flight was not merely ceremonial but intended to deepen understanding of India’s aerial power.

The reaction

Post-flight, President Murmu described the experience as “unforgettable” and said that the sortie “has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities”. The public and media reaction highlighted the symbolic value of the Rafale sortie Ambala, reinforcing the message of air force modernisation and national pride.

Why the Rafale sortie Ambala matters for India’s defence posture

Demonstrating modern air power

By choosing the Rafale sortie Ambala, India is publicly showcasing one of its most advanced fighter jets in active service: the Dassault Rafale. These jets were bought from France and entered into Indian service in 2020. The sortie sends a signal to both domestic and international audiences about India’s aerial combat readiness.

Strategic base selection

Ambala Air Force Station is a key base, being among the first to receive the Rafale jets in India. Its geographic location in northern India, relatively close to the India-Pakistan border, gives the sortie a latent strategic message: that India’s air power is forward-positioned and ready. The Rafale sortie Ambala thus has both symbolic and deterrent value.

Boost to morale and public perception

For the personnel of the IAF and for the general public, the Rafale sortie Ambala provides a morale boost. When the President participates in such a flight, it elevates the importance of the armed forces in national life and reinforces the idea of patriotic service. It also makes the sophisticated and often hidden world of fighter operations a subject of public interest and respect.

Diplomatic ripple effects

While the Rafale jets were procured from France under a major defence contract, their operational use and visibility – such as via the Rafale sortie Ambala – reinforce India’s position as a force in the Indo-Pacific domain. Observers will note that modern aircraft used in such high-profile sorties send messages to allies and adversaries alike.

Technical briefing, pilot & flight details

Aircraft specifications and readiness

The Dassault Rafale is a twin-engine, delta-wing, multirole fighter capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Reports around the Rafale sortie Ambala emphasise that the Indian variant of the aircraft is equipped with a range of advanced sensors, weapons, and electronic warfare systems. These capabilities ensure it remains a potent asset for India’s defence forces.

Pilot and squadron details

The flight was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, commanding officer of No. 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows”. Additionally, the presence of women officers such as Wing Commander Shivangi Singh, India’s only woman Rafale pilot, adds a narrative of inclusivity and progress. The squadron, based at Ambala, was among the first to receive the Rafale jets and has been operational with them since 2020.

Flight parameters and sortie profile

According to news sources, the sortie lasted about 30 minutes and covered approximately 200 kilometres, flying at around 15,000 feet altitude and at a speed near 700 km/h. The flight profile likely included take-off, climb, a demonstration of manoeuvres, and then descent and landing. The focus was not combat but symbol-heavy demonstration.

Security and logistical arrangements

Ahead of the flight, the Ambala station area had restrictions on drone flying and enhanced security measures. Such measures are indicative of the sensitivity and significance of the event: the Rafale sortie Ambala was not routine but ceremonially elevated.

President Murmu as Commander-in-Chief

President’s role and symbolism

As President of India, Droupadi Murmu holds the constitutional title of Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Her participation in the Rafale sortie Ambala brings that title alive—moving from ceremony to cockpit. The act signals solidarity with the armed forces and emphasizes civilian-military coordination.

First President to fly in two different fighter jets

With the Rafale sortie Ambala, President Murmu became the first Indian President to fly in two different fighter aircraft (her previous sortie was in a Sukhoi-30 MKI in April 2023). This milestone underscores continuity and progression—not just flying once, but again in a newer platform.

National pride and defence narrative

By describing the flight as “unforgettable” and saying it gave her “a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities”, President Murmu uses the Rafale sortie Ambala as a narrative tool to elevate public awareness of defence strength. Moreover, it helps bridge civilian life and the military world—making the combat-aircraft sortie accessible in public discourse.

Rafale induction and prior fighter flights

Rafale jets in Indian service

India purchased the Rafale from France, with the first batch arriving in July 2020 and formally inducted at Ambala in September 2020. The Rafale fleet has been central to India’s air combat strategy since. The Rafale sortie Ambala thus builds on this base of operational history.

Previous presidential fighter-jet flights

President Murmu’s earlier sortie in April 2023 in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Tezpur Air Force Station was a landmark. Moreover, earlier presidents such as APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil had flown in Sukhoi aircraft. The Rafale sortie Ambala is thus part of an evolving tradition of the highest civilian office engaging in fighter-jet flights—but with the newest generation aircraft.

From ceremonial to demonstrative

Earlier such flights were more ceremonial; the Rafale sortie Ambala carries more operational weight given the aircraft’s current role in India’s defence strategy, and its deployment near strategic frontiers. The choice of base (Ambala) and aircraft (Rafale) add to the weight of the message.

Implications for the Indian Air Force and beyond

Enhanced visibility for air power

The Rafale sortie Ambala will likely boost the visibility of the IAF’s capabilities: both internally (among personnel) and externally (public and diplomatic audiences). It may prompt more public outreach, more engagement between military and civilian leadership, and greater institutional morale.

Encouragement for women in combat roles

The involvement of Wing Commander Shivangi Singh as India’s only woman Rafale pilot, and her interaction with President Murmu during the sortie, underscores the growing role of women in India’s combat aviation domain. This might accelerate policy and cultural changes around gender and defence roles.

Strategic deterrence messaging

The Rafale sortie Ambala reinforces India’s deterrence posture: advanced aircraft, elite pilot training, and visible readiness. It sends a message to potential adversaries that India is modernising and integrating its defence assets in full view.

Domestic narrative and technological momentum

Such high-profile sorties help build national narratives around indigenous capabilities, modernisation, and defence self-reliance. While the Rafale is imported, the broader ecosystem (maintenance, logistics, training) is pushing domestic capabilities. The Rafale sortie Ambala becomes part of that story.

Reflecting on the Rafale sortie Ambala

The Rafale sortie Ambala stands as a powerful intersection of ceremony and strategy. When President Droupadi Murmu donned flight gear, boarded the Rafale at Ambala, and soared into the skies, it was not just a photo-op—it was a carefully orchestrated moment of national defence affirmation. The flight lasted around half an hour, covered some 200 km, and placed the President amidst one of India’s most advanced aerial combat platforms.

New Delhi,Oct.29,2025:The India–US trade deal is shaping up to be one of the most consequential commercial agreements of the year — potentially reshaping economic ties between the world’s fastest-growing major economy and its biggest global partner. Reports indicate that both sides are nearing final documents, with tariff reductions of Indian exports to the U.S. from as high as ~50 % down to around 15–16 %

India has made clear that it does not take deals in haste. As Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal put it: “We don’t do deals in a hurry, and we don’t deal with deadlines with a gun to our head.”
But the momentum is unmistakable: the U.S. side, under Donald Trump, has publicly said “I am going to do a trade deal with India” in remarks at the APEC CEOs luncheon. This agreement, if successfully concluded, would lend a fresh impetus to bilateral trade, deepen supply-chain linkages and bring strategic co-operation amid shifting global trade flows.

Why the deal is happening now

Several inter-locking factors have driven the urgency of the India–US trade deal-

• The U.S. is keen to diversify trade and reduce over-dependence on China and other single-source partners. India presents a compelling alternative.
• India, for its part, is looking to boost exports, deepen global market access, and secure better terms for its manufacturing and strategic sectors.
• The current high tariffs – reportedly up to ~50% on Indian goods – have become unsustainable for exporters and for maintaining competitiveness in global markets.
• Geopolitical shifts: Energy security, agricultural trade, non-tariff barriers and the broader supply-chain reorganisation post-COVID have all heightened the strategic value of this deal.
• Timing: With global trade frameworks under strain, both nations view this as a window of opportunity. Reports suggest the agreement could be formalised around a summit later this year.

Tariff cuts and major concessions

At the heart of the India–US trade deal are significant tariff and market-access changes.

 Indian exports to the U.S. currently face tariffs approaching ~50% (including punitive components) in certain categories. Relieving that burden is a major objective. Under the deal, Indian exporters could see their access to the U.S. market open up with tariffs reduced to approximately 15–16% or thereabouts.

• On the Indian side, concessions are also expected: Increased market opening to U.S. agriculture (corn, soymeal, ethanol), energy imports (LPG, petroleum derivatives) and perhaps easing of non-tariff barriers.
• India is negotiating protections for its core interests — e.g., retaining thresholds for sectors like dairy, cereals and agro-produce.
• The deal aims to provide certainty: Indian negotiators want explicit assurances that new tariffs will not be introduced later by the U.S. side once the pact is in place.

Which six sectors stand to benefit most

Within the India–US trade deal, six sectors emerge as the most promising winners. Businesses, investors and policymakers will watch them closely.

Sector 1: Textiles & Apparel

India’s textile and apparel industry has long sought stronger access to the U.S. market. With tariff-cuts in the works, Indian manufacturers could see export growth accelerate, while enhanced competitiveness may help regain market share.
Reduction in tariff burden under the deal would make Indian garments and textiles more attractive in the U.S., offsetting cost pressures from labour and logistics.

Sector 2: Gems & Jewellery

The Indian gems & jewellery industry — a major exporter to the U.S. — could gain from the tariff relief and better market access. With easier U.S. entry terms, Indian producers might capture higher margin business and expand volume.
Moreover, improved Indian stability in the deal may also reduce risk premiums and improve investor sentiment in this capital-intensive sector.

Sector 3: Pharmaceuticals & Biotech

India’s pharma industry, already global in scale, stands to benefit from more predictable trade flows and improved access to U.S. markets. The deal may ease tariffs and reduce uncertainty about import duty escalation or supply-chain disruption.
Given strategic global interest in healthcare and resilient supply chains, this sector could be a major indirect beneficiary of the India–US trade deal.

Sector 4: Engineering Goods & Automobiles

Engineering goods and automobile components are also likely to gain. With U.S. tariffs coming down, Indian engineering exports may become more competitive. Moreover, Indian auto-component supply-chain links with the U.S. may deepen, driving investment and growth.
One challenge: India also faces reciprocal demands (e.g., auto-exports, standards) so the deal’s specifics will matter.

Sector 5: Agriculture & Agro-Processing

Agriculture is a sensitive but promising area under the India–US trade deal. India may allow greater imports of U.S. non-GM corn, soymeal, ethanol, etc., while gaining export access for processed foods, spices, and higher-value agro-products.
If managed well, Indian agro-processors could scale and connect to U.S. demand, while Indian farmers gain new markets or inputs.

Sector 6: Consumer Electronics & Technology

Though less discussed, technology and consumer electronics represent a growth frontier in the India–US trade deal. With supply-chain diversification underway, Indian exports of electronic goods, as well as participation in global value chains, may accelerate.
Moreover, the deal may stimulate U.S. investment into Indian manufacturing of electronics, semiconductors and allied technologies — areas that India is currently targeting.

Risks, challenges and hurdles in the India–US trade deal

While promising, this India–US trade deal is far from assured. Several risks and hurdles remain-

• Agriculture sensitivities & domestic opposition: Allowing U.S. corn, soymeal or ethanol into India can face fierce push-back from farmers and agro-industry.
• Non-tariff barriers: Many U.S. exporters raise issues about India’s quality-control orders, standards, import restrictions and other non-tariff barriers. These must be addressed.
• Tariff rollback fears: Indian side wants assurance that once the deal is done, U.S. will not impose fresh tariffs — confidence is not yet guaranteed.
• Geopolitical/energy linkages: India’s continued purchase of Russian oil has been a sticking point. The U.S. side sees this as complicating the deal.
• Implementation risk: Even if the deal is inked, effective implementation — aligning regulatory standards, adjusting domestic industries, upgrading infrastructure — will take time.
• Investor caution: Until the text is finalised, investors and businesses may hold back, leading to slower-than-expected uptick in sectoral activity.

What investors and businesses should watch

If you’re an investor, business executive or policymaker, the India–US trade deal offers several strategic signals to monitor-

• Announced timeline: Watch for official confirmation of the deal, e.g., around major summits or bilateral meetings. The earlier-reported target for November this year is significant.
• Tariff schedule: The final schedule of tariff reductions, phased-in reductions and sector-specific carve-outs will determine who wins and who might face challenge.
• Sectoral winners and losers: The six sectors listed above are likely beneficiaries — but businesses within each must assess their own competitive positioning.
• Integration and investment flows: Expect increased U.S. investment into India (and possibly vice-versa) in sectors like electronics, auto-components, pharma, agro-processing.
• Regulatory changes: New import/export rules, standards alignment, customs facilitation, regulatory oversight — all will evolve with the deal.
• Risk management: Industries exposed to tariff-risk, supply-chain disruption or delayed implementation should build contingency plans.
• Geopolitical cross-winds: Energy policy (Russian oil imports), climate commitments, farmers’ protests, trade defence policies — all may influence the deal’s shape and rollout.

The India–US trade deal stands as a potent opportunity and a serious test. If delivered, it could unlock substantial gains for Indian exporters, invigorate six major sectors, deepen strategic ties and reshape global supply chains in India’s favour.
However, realising those gains demands clarity, political will, built-in protections and careful implementation. The devil lies in the details — which sectors get the tariff relief, which concessions India agrees to, how quickly changes are rolled out and how industries adapt.

Mumbai, Oct.29,2025:Tata Trusts boardroom battle has erupted at one of India’s most storied business conglomerates, signalling a possible watershed moment for governance, power and legacy within the Tata Trusts and its oversight of the broader Tata Group. In recent weeks this issue has attracted intense scrutiny — from media headlines to government advisers — as trustees clash over board seats, decision-making authority and the future direction of the group-

Legacy of Ratan Tata and the architecture of the Tata Group

To fully grasp the roots of the Tata Trusts boardroom battle, one must understand the imperatives that defined the Tata Group under Ratan Tata: a focus on long-term industrial transformation, global expansion, and a structure that combined business and philanthropic stewardship.

After his passing in October 2024, the group entered a transitional phase. Noel Tata stepped in as Chairman of the Trusts. The Trusts themselves hold about 66 % of Tata Sons — the principal holding company of the group. That unique mix of public listed companies, philanthropic trusts and a holding structure has historically given the group a distinctive character. But this is exactly what now appears stressed.

What exactly is the Tata Trusts boardroom battle about

The core issues

• At the heart of the Tata Trusts boardroom battle is a disagreement among trustees over how the trusts should exercise oversight, appoint board members to Tata Sons, and influence major business decisions.
• The question of whether Tata Sons should be publicly listed, and how minority shareholders (such as the Shapoorji Pallonji Group) should be managed, has also become a flashpoint.
• A significant recent flashpoint was the decision not to reappoint key trustee Mehli Mistry, which amplified the Tata Trusts boardroom battle into more overt conflict.

The governance dimension

Contrary to past custom at Tata Trusts, which emphasised unanimity in key decisions, recent actions have been taken by majority vote — signalling that the governance norms themselves are under pressure. That shift forms a major strand of the boardroom tension.

Players, factions and recent developments

Main actors

• Noel Tata: Chairman of the Trusts, seen as steering one side of the factional divide.
• Venu Srinivasan: Re-appointed as trustee for life amid rising tensions.
• Mehli Mistry: Long-time trustee and confidant of Ratan Tata, now removed.

Factions and flashpoints

In the unfolding drama of the Tata Trusts boardroom battle, two loose blocs appear: one aligned with Noel Tata and Venu Srinivasan, another aligned with Mehli Mistry and his supporters. The disagreement spans trustee reappointments, board composition at Tata Sons, and broader strategic governance of the group. One trigger was the decision in September not to re-appoint Venu Srinivasan’s ally, marking a break with earlier practice.

Recent milestone in the battle

On 28 October 2025, the Trusts moved to remove Mehli Mistry by majority vote — a major escalation in the Tata Trusts boardroom battle. Legal experts suggest the trust deed will play a major role in any future contest.

Why the Tata Trusts boardroom battle matters for business, governance and India Inc.

Business implications

The Tata Group, through Tata Sons, controls dozens of listed companies (such as Tata Motors, Tata Consultancy Services, Jaguar Land Rover) and is estimated to have a market value in the hundreds of billions of dollars. A boardroom crisis could affect investor confidence, governance standards, and the group’s ability to execute large-scale initiatives (e.g., in electric vehicles, semiconductors).

Governance and legacy

Because the Trusts play both a philanthropic and controlling role, the Tata Trusts boardroom battle raises questions about how legacy, charitable mandate and commercial governance interact. As one trustee put it: “unprecedented … signals a different era.”

The outcome will influence how other large family-led or trust-controlled groups in India handle transitions.

Political/regulatory attention

The conflict has drawn rare intervention from government ministers, signalling the systemic importance of the group. When India’s corporate giants wobble, the ripple effects are broad.

Risks, challenges and what’s next for the Tata Trusts boardroom battle

Key risks

• Prolonged internal conflict could distract leadership and impair strategic decisions.
• A public-facing battle might tarnish the Tata Group’s long-built reputation of moral capitalism and stable governance. Analysts warn the Tata Trusts boardroom battle could mirror the 2016 crisis when Cyrus Mistry was ousted.
• If minority stakeholders (such as Shapoorji Pallonji) sense instability, they may push for listing or other structural changes — fuelling further turbulence.

Challenges ahead

• Rebuilding consensus: The shift from unanimous to majority decision-making represents a structural change, and managing it will require clarity and communication.
• Clarifying roles: Trustee-nominee directors, information-sharing protocols with Tata Sons and the transparency of oversight are all under question.
• Preserving legacy: Balancing the philanthropic mission of the Trusts with the commercial ambitions of the group is harder in this climate.

What to watch

• Further trustee appointments or removals at Tata Trusts will indicate which faction has majority control.
• Strategic decisions at Tata Sons (listing, board appointments, business moves) may reflect the outcome of the boardroom battle.
• Legal actions or regulatory interventions might arise, given the prominence of the group.
• Communications to shareholders, market responses and external perceptions will show how well the group manages the crisis.

The Tata Trusts boardroom battle has laid bare a deep tension within the foundations of one of India’s most respected corporate & philanthropic institutions. It is more than a tussle over board seats — it is a test of governance, legacy, strategic clarity and institutional strength. How the Trusts navigate this and restore unity will not just affect the Tata Group but resonate across Indian business and philanthropy. More than ever, the next chapter needs both thoughtful leadership and solid structures — to ensure that the values that built the group endure.

Gaza,Oct.29,2025:Gaza air strikes erupted late on 28–29 October 2025, when Israeli forces launched rapid attacks across the Gaza Strip, killing at least 33 Palestinians, including women and children, according to health officials in Gaza-

According to Israel, the offensive was a direct response to alleged breaches by the Hamas of a recently brokered cease-fire.
The term “Gaza air strikes” thus describes more than simply bombs and blasts — it signals one of the most serious challenges to the cease-fire that began 10 October 2025.

What triggered the strikes

The underlying trigger for the Gaza air strikes appears to be a combination of events-

• Israel’s claim that Hamas fighters attacked Israeli soldiers in southern Gaza – specifically near Rafah – which Israel says crossed a “red line”.
• A controversial exchange of remains: Israel claimed that Hamas returned a coffin containing remains that did not match those of the 13 Israeli hostages reported still in Gaza. That, Israel argues, breached the conditions of the cease-fire.
• Following these events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “forceful strikes” across Gaza.
  Thus, the Gaza air strikes are not isolated incidents, but are deeply entwined with hostage-negotiation dynamics, cease-fire monitoring and the fragile balance.

The human toll and civilian suffering

The impact of the Gaza air strikes has been severe on civilians. Witnesses and Gaza health authorities report-

• Strikes hit multiple locations including Gaza City’s Sabra neighbourhood, the Bureij refugee camp and Khan Younis.
• One home in Sabra reportedly killed four people, among them three women.
• A vehicle in Khan Younis carrying civilians was hit, reportedly resulting in five deaths, including two children and one woman.
• Hospitals receiving many of the casualties describe the scene as overwhelmed. The nature of Gaza air strikes — targeting residential buildings, schools and vehicles — raises urgent humanitarian questions. The scale of civilian casualties underscores the fragile state of the cease-fire and the war-torn environment in Gaza.
  The health ministry in Gaza reports that more than 68,000 Palestinians have died since the war began two years ago — although exact classification of combatants vs civilians remains disputed.

Cease-fire under pressure

The Gaza air strikes have put enormous strain on the US-brokered cease-fire, which began on 10 October 2025. The agreement required among other things: return of hostages, exchange of remains, and a temporary halt to major hostilities.
Key issues include:

• Israel claims the cease-fire was violated by Hamas through the soldier-attack and the incorrect remains handover.
• Hamas denies involvement in the soldier-attack and says it remains committed to the cease-fire.
• Despite the strikes, the US insists the cease-fire still holds.
  Hence, the Gaza air strikes represent both a symptom and a cause of cease-fire fragility — the very mechanism meant to stay the violence is now under severe test.

International reactions and diplomacy

The global response to the Gaza air strikes has been significant-

• US President Donald Trump said Israel has the right to hit back when attacked, and insisted the cease-fire must survive.
• The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) condemned what it described as a “fake recovery” of remains by Hamas, which preceded the strikes.
• Media outlets warn that the Gaza air strikes mark “the deadliest day” since the truce began, posing a looming risk of full-scale resurging conflict.
• International humanitarian concerns are mounting over civilian casualties, hospital overloads and the humanitarian crisis enduring in Gaza.
  In sum, the Gaza air strikes have not only local impact but reverberate across international diplomacy, mediation efforts and humanitarian policy.

What comes next for Gaza and the region

Given the intensity of the Gaza air strikes and the surrounding conditions, several possibilities emerge-

• If either side deems the cease-fire irreparably broken, full-scale military operations could resume, worsening the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and heightening regional instability.
• Mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey may intensify to salvage the deal — but trust has eroded.
• Attention will shift to the mechanisms of hostage-return, remains-exchange and monitoring of cease-fire compliance — all core to sustaining any truce.
• For the people of Gaza, the Gaza air strikes amplify the day-to-day suffering: displacement, trauma, infrastructure destruction, lack of aid and fear.
• The world will watch whether international law, human rights, and civilian protection in such conflicts gain real traction, or remain rhetoric.

The term Gaza air strikes captures more than explosions; it signals a turning point — a moment when a fragile cease-fire trembles under fresh assault, families mourn lives lost, and the international community grapples with whether peace can still hold. The loss of at least 33 lives, the contested triggers, and the urgent humanitarian consequences demand our attention. As this story develops, the resilience of diplomacy, the safety of civilians, and the integrity of the cease-fire will all be put to profound test.

India,Oct.29,2025:The cyclonic system known as Cyclone Montha formed over the west-central Bay of Bengal and gradually strengthened into what the IMD classified as a “Severe Cyclonic Storm” before landfall.
The name “Montha” was assigned by Thailand (meaning “beautiful flower”), though the flower metaphor belies the storm’s force. As of the latest update, Montha is weakening after landfall but remains potent in its impacts-

Landfall & initial impact in Andhra Pradesh

The “Cyclone Montha Alert” became real when the storm made landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada along the Andhra coast, late on 28 October.
Wind speeds at landfall were estimated at 90–110 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h in some places.
For example, wind gusts of ~100 km/h caused trees to uproot, power lines to collapse, and damage to houses in Andhra.
In one case, a 48-year-old woman died in Konaseema district when a palm tree fell on her, highlighting the human cost of the storm.

The “Cyclone Montha Alert” – what the IMD warns

The IMD has issued a Cyclone Montha Alert covering the following key points-

• The storm has weakened into a Cyclonic Storm and is expected to further weaken into a deep depression over Andhra Pradesh and adjoining Telangana.
• Despite weakening, there is a heightened risk of heavy to very heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and coastal storm surge in affected states until at least 31 October.
• A forecast bulletin indicates rainfall will be “scattered to fairly widespread” across southern, eastern, and northeastern India, with isolated extreme downpours. Because this alert spans multiple states and continues beyond the immediate landfall, the public and authorities must remain vigilant through 29-31 October.

States under threat

Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam

In the zone of landfall, preparations were intense. Seven districts — Krishna, Eluru, East & West Godavari, Kakinada, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema and parts of Alluri Sitarama Raju division — witnessed a night curfew from 8:30 pm to 6:00 am.
The alert warns of heavy rainfall and strong winds even as the system moves inland: the risk of flooding, uprooted trees and power outages remains.
In Vijayawada, water-logging, tree-falls and blocked roads emerged early as the storm crossed.

Odisha, Telangana & Jharkhand

Though the landfall occurred in Andhra, adjacent states are affected. Heavy rain and landslides were reported in Odisha.
In Telangana, the IMD issued red/orange alerts for districts such as Warangal, Jangaon, Khammam.
Across Jharkhand, West Bengal, and other east/northeast states, rainfall from the system’s moisture band is expected through 31 October.

Bihar, West Bengal, MP

Even though these areas are farther from landfall, the Cyclone Montha Alert extends into them because of secondary weather systems and the storm’s residual moisture. The IMD warns of heavy rain in Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh etc. through 30–31 October.

Preparations, evacuations and disruption

With the Cyclone Montha Alert in place, state governments and disaster-response authorities ramped up action-

• In Andhra, tens of thousands of people were evacuated from low-lying areas; relief camps were set up.
• Rescue teams from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and others were deployed along coastal Andhra and Odisha.
• Schools and colleges in vulnerable areas (Andhra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu) were closed as a precaution.
• Rail services and flights were cancelled: Over 100 trains were reportedly cancelled by East Coast Railway; flights from Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati were also affected.
• Curfews and movement restrictions in high-risk districts in Andhra were enforced to keep the public off the roads during peak hazard hours.

These steps reflect the seriousness of the Cyclone Montha Alert and the potential for damage even as the storm begins weakening.

Rain, wind and aftermath

Rainfall & flooding

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, and interior areas through 29–31 October. In some places, isolated extremely heavy downpours (over 20 cm) are forecast.
In Vijayawada, the city recorded about 14 cm of rain early morning after landfall. Roads were inundated and relief shelters opened.

Wind & storm surge

Even though the storm has weakened, gusty winds (60-100 km/h) remain a threat in coastal belts. Uprooted trees and power line damage are already being reported.
A storm surge of up to 10 feet was reported near the coast at landfall.

Agriculture, infrastructure & power

Preliminary estimates show that around 38,000 hectares of standing crops were damaged in Andhra due to Montha’s effects.
Power outages and downed communication lines were widespread, particularly in coastal Andhra and Odisha.

Travel & logistics

Roads and highways saw disruptions due to fallen trees and flooding. For example, in Anakapalli town the National Highway 16 section had to be cleared early Wednesday morning.
Ports, fishing activity, and coastal transport were suspended as a preventative measure.

Given the Cyclone Montha Alert, even regions beyond the landfall zone must stay weather-ready.

Tips for residents, travellers & authorities

For residents

• Heed local alerts and curfews. During landfall peak hours avoid travel, stay indoors if instructed.
• Secure loose outdoor objects (signboards, vehicles, debris) that winds may carry.
• Move away from low-lying, flooded, or landslide-prone zones — coordinate with relief centres if necessary.
• Keep a battery-powered radio/phone handy for updates.
• Avoid driving through water-logged roads; one should never assume the water depth is safe.
• After the storm, beware of fallen power lines, damaged trees, unstable buildings — treat them as hazardous.

For travellers

• Check flight/train status if travelling to Andhra, Odisha, or nearby states. Expect cancellations or delays under the Cyclone Montha Alert.
• If staying in flood-prone or coastal zones, reconsider travel until the weather stabilises.
• Inform family/friends of your location and plan in case of evacuation orders.

For authorities & responders

• Ensure clear communication of the storm track and rainfall forecasts under the Cyclone Montha Alert to district/development-blocks.
• Staffing of evacuation centres, emergency shelters, medical camps must remain active through 31 October.
• Inspect critical infrastructure (dams, embankments, storm-drains) for vulnerabilities.
• Post-storm, mobilise debris-clearing, power restoration, and road-opening teams promptly.
• Coordinate with IMD bulletins to update rainfall and wind hazard zones in near real-time.

Weather patterns and implications

The Cyclone Montha Alert underscores how a coastal storm, even while weakening, can generate a broad swathe of weather impact across states inland. As the storm system moves north-north-westwards, its moisture will spread wider, causing heavy rain far from the coast.
In the medium term, such storms highlight how climate change may be increasing both the frequency and intensity of cyclonic events in the North Indian Ocean region.
Moreover, the heavy rainfall in previously monsoon-wet regions adds to flood risk, landslide risk in hilly zones, and stress on drainage/infrastructure. Monitoring and resilience-building become ever more important.

The Cyclone Montha Alert is a serious weather advisory issued at a critical moment: the storm has made landfall, weakened, yet continues to pose significant hazards — heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, power disruption and infrastructure challenges. Coastal Andhra Pradesh bore the immediate brunt, but the risk spans multiple states through 29-31 October.

US, Oct.29,2025:“Trump Modi praise” is currently trending after Donald Trump delivered a striking address at the APEC Summit in South Korea in which he lavished admiration on Narendra Modi—calling him the “nicest-looking guy”, “a killer”, “tough as hell”—and linking that praise to a broader conversation about trade, diplomacy and regional security. In doing so, Trump not only elevated Modi’s persona on the world stage but also signalled renewed interest in a US-India trade deal, and in so-doing intertwined issues of diplomacy, defence, and trade into one narrative of personal and political networking.

What Trump said – headline remarks

At leading edge-

• Trump declared: “I’m doing a trade deal with India and I have great respect and love for Prime Minister Modi. We have a great relationship.”
• He referred to Modi as “the nicest-looking guy… he’s a killer… he’s tough as hell.”
• Trump claimed he personally intervened to stop war between India and Pakistan by using trade leverage. According to his account, after he threatened “250% tariffs” the fighting stopped.
• He also praised Pakistan’s prime minister and army chief while recounting his role in de-escalation.

These remarks are imbued with admiration, assertiveness, and bold claims—typical of Trump’s style—but their combination and setting amplify their weight.

Why now and at the APEC Summit in South Korea

The backdrop matters. Trump’s remarks came at the APEC Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, where economic, strategic and diplomatic agendas converged.
Key contextual factors-

• The US is seeking stronger ties in the Asia-Pacific region amid supply-chain realignments, China’s rise, and regional rivalries.
• India, under Modi’s leadership, is a major global actor with growing economic and strategic heft.
• Trump’s overtures signal a pivot to recognise India not only as a market but as a partner in balancing regional power.
• The timing underscores a “soft diplomatic moment” where personal praise becomes a vehicle for strategic signalling.

So, when we see Trump Modi praise at APEC, it’s not just flattery—it’s part of a larger strategic chessboard.

The India-Pakistan claim and how Trump tied it to trade

In one dramatic segment of the speech, Trump claimed he stepped in to stop a potential war between India and Pakistan in May, using trade as his lever. According to his version:

• He addressed both Indian and Pakistani leadership, stating the US would not proceed with trade deals while hostilities continued.
• He repeated the claim that 7 planes were shot down and that within two days both sides sought to end the conflict after his intervention.
• India has officially denied any third-party mediation role in the May cease-fire agreements.

This interweaving of conflict, personal intervention and trade deal reveals how Trump is framing the narrative: diplomacy through deal-making, leadership via negotiation, and influence via commerce.

The implications of Trump Modi praise for US-India relations

The “Trump Modi praise” isn’t simply about warm words—it carries multiple layers of implication:

Trade deal acceleration

Trump’s repeated statement, “I’m going to do a trade deal with India,” signals US intent. Such a deal could include reduction of US tariffs on Indian goods, deeper investment ties, and possibly joint strategic economic partnerships. Reports say contours are being finalised.

Strategic balancing

India is increasingly central to US strategy in the Indo-Pacific: both as a counter-weight to China and as an emerging hub of supply-chain diversification. The praise signals Trump’s recognition of that role.

Personal diplomacy and public narrative

By describing Modi in such personal, glowing terms, Trump frames the relationship as one of allies and friends—not just statesmen. That helps build goodwill but also raises expectations.

Regional ripple effects

Pakistan, China and other regional actors will observe how the US-India axis evolves. Trump’s mention of the Pakistan conflict and cease-fire role adds another dimension to how India is seen as a regional actor, not just on trade but conflict management.

Reactions in India and Pakistan

The “Trump Modi praise” has elicited a range of responses-

• In India: While civil discourse in media has picked up the novelty of Trump’s adjectives (“nicest-looking guy”, etc.), official responses have been more measured, particularly towards the claims of US mediation between India and Pakistan. For example, India has rejected third-party mediation.
• In Pakistan: Given Trump praised Pakistan’s prime minister and army chief, the comments carry diplomatic significance. But they also underscore Pakistan’s sensitivity to narrative of outside mediation in the India-Pakistan conflict.
• Among observers: Some see the comments as strategic positioning ahead of a US-India trade deal. Others view the war-averting claim as an attempt by Trump to boost his own global leadership image.

Strategic and diplomatic fallout – what lies ahead

Given the nature of these remarks, what should we watch for in the coming months

Finalisation of US-India trade deal

With Trump signalling “going to do a trade deal with India”, the mechanics of such a pact will be under scrutiny: tariff cuts (US on Indian goods), Indian concessions (maybe in services, tech), investment flows, and mutual strategic commitments.

Impact on India-Pakistan dynamic

The mention of conflict de-escalation by Trump ties a military-diplomatic event to trade diplomacy. Even if the claim is contested, the narrative alone may shift how future diplomatic engagements are framed.

Messaging to China and Indo-Pacific

A strengthened US-India partnership will be noted by China, Japan, Australia and other regional powers. It may accelerate multilateral arrangements, supply-chain strategies, defence cooperation. Reports suggest Trump is also engaging with Japan and South Korea on rare earths and deal-making.

Media & perception

The use of personal descriptors—“nice-looking”, “killer”, “tough as hell”—while informal, reflects a deliberate media strategy. It shapes public perception of leaders as personalities, not just offices. The risk: such language may generate backlash or distraction if seen as over-the-top.

The focus key phrase “Trump Modi praise” captures more than a momentary headline. It signals a recalibration of US-India relations—where trade, diplomacy, personality and strategic interest converge.

Jhunjhunu, Oct.29,2025:The Khetri hardware shop explosion occurred late Tuesday into early Wednesday at the town of Khetri in the district of Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. A hardware shop at the Nizampur Mōḍ reached by a ferocious blast, sending shock-waves into the community-

From the outset, this accident carried a grim toll and raised questions about hazardous materials, local enforcement and emergency readiness.

The moment of blast

In the early hours, just around 2 a.m., at the hardware store located at the Nizampur bend in Khetri, a massive explosion detonated seemingly from within the shop. The force of the blast was so intense that the heavy iron shutter of the shop flew approximately 60 feet away.

The shopkeeper was propelled some 20 feet onto the road and died on the spot.
The blast’s reverberation instilled fear in nearby residents and woke up the locality in alarm.

Timeline of events

• ~02:00 hrs: Explosion inside hardware shop.
• Shutter blasted 60 ft away; shopkeeper thrown ~20 ft.
• Fire breaks out; nearby bookstore catches flame.
• Locals call police & fire brigade; arrival of teams.

Scene description

Witnesses described an earth-shattering roar and the metallic shutter rocketing across the road. Fires engulfed neighbouring shops, smoke billowed and the district again faced a tragedy in this humble town.

Victim and immediate impact

The deceased has been identified as Mr Shankarlal, a resident of Puranā (P‐purana) and the proprietor of the hardware business.
His body was moved to the mortuary of the Rajkiya Ajit Up Zila Hospital, Khetri.

Local authorities, including the Station Officer of Khetri Police Station, Tahsildar Sunil Kumar and Sub–Divisional-Officer Mukesh Chaudhary reached the scene soon.

The immediate impact-

• Loss of human life
• Damage to property and shutter flying far off
• Trauma in the community

Fire spreads and further damage

In the aftermath of the explosion, the conflagration spread to adjacent properties. A neighbouring bookstore, as well as an e-Mitra outlet, were caught in the blaze.

The local fire authorities were joined by two fire-tenders dispatched from the Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) and the Municipal Corporation of Khetri.

Despite the quick arrival of help, the damage had already been done — scattered debris, charred storefronts, and disrupted trade for nearby shops.

Possible causes and police response

Official response

The police have sealed the shop premises and summoned a forensic team for detailed examination.
Preliminary findings have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the explosion.

Likely causes

Though no definitive cause has been published, investigators suspect that a leaked gas cylinder or some flammable chemical stored inside the hardware shop may have triggered the blast.

In hardware stores, items such as paint thinners, gas cylinders, welding rods, adhesives—if stored unsafely—can pose significant risk. According to the guidelines of the National Fire Services College, hazardous-chemical storage and ventilation are critical in retail outlets. [see external link]

What investigators will look for

• Presence of gas cylinders or LPG bottles in the shop
• Electrical short-circuit triggering ignition
• Proper storage of flammable materials
• Building & fire-safety compliance of the shop premise
• CCTV footage or witness statements for time of ignition

Safety, regulation and community trust

The Khetri hardware shop explosion raises several issues that reverberate beyond this one tragic incident.

Retail safety in small towns

Many smaller retail units in India are under-regulated when it comes to fire safety. The mishandling or inappropriate storage of chemicals, gas cylinders, flammable adhesives often goes unchecked. This incident is a stark reminder that every shop is potentially a hazard zone unless strict protocols are followed.

Enforcement & awareness

Municipal authorities and fire departments need to step up inspections, especially in zones with mixed-use commercial premises. The public needs awareness about safe storage of combustible goods and what to do in the event of gas-leak or smoke. External link: see the fire-safety guidelines from the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.

Economic and psychological aftermath

For the town of Khetri, the incident may cause temporary loss of trust in local business safety. Nearby shop-owners may worry about licences, insurance, and fire-risk mitigation. Trade may suffer until normalcy returns. Psychologically, the residents have been jolted awake from complacency about safety.

What residents are saying

Locals told reporters that the blast was so powerful it felt like the ground shook. Many rushed out in panic. The owner’s body lying on the road added to the horror. Community voices highlighted-

“We heard a thunderous sound, the shutter flew across the road – thank God no one else was walking there at that moment.” – local witness.

One shop-owner near the scene expressed: “We have gas cylinders, paints, many things—maybe we take storage for granted. Now we must review everything.”

The Khetri hardware shop explosion stands as a tragic event in Jhunjhunu’s recent history. With one life lost, significant property damage, and community trust shaken, the path ahead requires concrete action:

Jaipur, Oct.29,2025:The Jaipur job-scam in health sector refers to allegations made by medical staff in Jaipur’s public “janata clinics” (people’s clinics) that they were forced or pressured to pay money in return for being given jobs by a contractor and were subsequently removed when they did not comply. According to reports, the contract for 21 such clinics was awarded to Aksa Construction Company, and staff allege that its employee Arvind Malviya demanded money in exchange for posting, taking staff credentials (degree/diploma) and threatened dismissal if payment was not made-

This scandal may indicate deeper problems in the outsourcing of public health-services staffing, contractor oversight and fairness in recruitment.

public clinics and contractors

In Jaipur, under the oversight of the Rajasthan National Health Mission (NHM) and local health authorities (CMHO – Chief Medical Health Officer), several janata clinics are run to provide basic primary health-care services. The staffing of doctors, nurses and paramedic personnel in such clinics often involves tenders, contractors and outsourcing frameworks.

In the current case, the contract in question covered 21 janata clinics and a new tender was floated, under which several staff members allege they were removed and replaced after being unable to comply with payment demands. The complaint notes that around 40+ staff have signed stamped affidavits alleging the job-money demand. This sets the stage for the claim of a large-scale illicit recruitment racket.

Historically, job-fraud schemes in India’s health and public sector have involved payments for postings, fake recruitment, and misuse of contractor frameworks. For example, a nursing recruitment fraud in Rajasthan involving over Rs 20 lakh was reported earlier.

Thus, the current incident appears part of a recurring pattern of vulnerability in health-sector recruitment.

How the alleged job-rack was structured

Tender and contractor involvement

The contract was awarded to Aksa Construction Company for staffing 21 janata clinics in Jaipur. The allegation is that the firm (or its employee) handled the recruitment process bypassing direct public service commission norms and instead operated via informal payments to applicants. According to staff claims, credentials (degree/diploma) and other documents were taken by the contractor’s employee, who promised posting in exchange for money.

Demand for money and removal on non-payment

Victims allege that Arvind Malviya, employee of Aksa Construction, demanded money for job allotment. When the amounts were not paid, the staff were removed from their positions when a new tender came in. The affected employees submitted complaints on Rs 100 stamped affidavits to the Additional Mission Director (AMD) of NHM, Dr T Shubhamangla.

Documentation and formal complaint

Over 40 affected staff members signed stamped affidavits declaring that their credentials were collected, money was demanded and they were dismissed for non-payment. The written complaint was addressed by them to AMD Dr T Shubhamangla.

Institutional cover-up or denial

When approached by media, CMHO I (Chief Medical Health Officer First Circle) Dr Ravi Shekhawat said: “I do not know who Arvind Malviya is.” According to his statement, the matter is under investigation: “I had asked Aksa Construction about him; they said they also don’t know who he is.”

This suggests potential confusion or refusal of contractor and health-department officials to accept direct responsibility.

The victims’ grievances and the complaint process

Who are the complainants

The affected individuals are doctors, nursing staff and other medical employees who had been posted in the janata clinics under the previous contractor but were replaced after a new tender was issued. They claim they were told to pay money for job allotment and had to submit personal credentials (degree/diploma, other documents) to the contractor’s employee. When they refused or could not pay, they were removed.

Their actions and formal complaint

The complainants met with the Additional Mission Director (AMD) of NHM, Dr T Shubhamangla, and thereafter submitted written affidavits on Rs 100 stamp paper. The affidavits detail the sequence: credential collection, money demand, posting promise, and eventual removal for non-payment. Over 40 individuals have submitted these affidavits.

What do they want

The staff are seeking-

• Investigation into the contractor’s recruitment process and money demands
• Restoration of jobs or fair compensation for wrongful removal
• Accountability and action against those who demanded money
• Transparency in future recruitment processes

The submission of the affidavits signals a strong protest by the staff, highlighting the alleged systemic misconduct.

Institutional responses and accountability

Health-department reaction

The CMHO and NHM officials have been notified of the complaints. The CMHO claimed ignorance about the alleged person (Malviya) and stated that the investigation is ongoing. This response, however, has raised concerns over accountability and follow-through.

Role of the contractor

The Aksa Construction Company, as per media reports, was the awarded contractor for the janata clinic staffing tender. However, the company allegedly claimed ignorance when questioned about the individual (Malviya) who was accused of money demands. This disconnect points to ambiguity in the hiring and oversight framework.

Oversight by tendering agencies & regulator

Since the recruitment is linked to a tender for public health-services, the tendering authority (state Health Department/NHM) must oversee fairness and compliance. The allegations raise questions whether the tender terms included safeguards against bribery or money-demand in posting and whether the contractor adhered to them.

Legal and administrative consequences

If investigations substantiate the allegations, consequences could include-

• Cancellation of tender or contractor disqualification
• Criminal prosecution for fraud, extortion or cheating
• Disciplinary action against health-department officials who ignored or failed to catch the scam
• Restitution or reinstatement of affected staff

The timeline and visibility of the investigation will be crucial in restoring confidence.

Why this matter is serious for healthcare employment

Undermines merit and fairness

The Jaipur job-scam in health sector strikes at the root of equitable recruitment. When job posts are effectively traded for money, meritocratic access is undermined, affecting both the individual aspirants and the quality of healthcare delivery.

Impacts service delivery

Janata clinics serve the public at the primary level; staffing such clinics with personnel selected through corrupt means may jeopardise service standards, accountability and trust of patients.

Erodes public confidence

When health-services recruitment is viewed as corrupt, the entire healthcare system’s credibility suffers—leading to lower morale among honest staff and scepticism among the public.

Sets a precedent for repeat offences

If unchecked, such a scam may signal to other contractors and staff that job-money demands are acceptable, increasing the risk of repeat rackets in other districts or agencies.

Challenges, legal and systemic issues

Difficulty of proving allegations

The complainants have submitted affidavits, but establishing direct evidence (money trails, contractor directives, departmental oversight lapses) may be challenging. Documenting cash demands, verifying contractor employees’ roles and linking them to the contractor’s authorisation will require robust investigation.

Contractor oversight and accountability

The use of contractors for public-health staffing is widely practiced, but it often lacks strong oversight, transparency and audit mechanisms. Without such checks, the recruitment process becomes vulnerable to exploitation.

Departmental inertia and denial

Health-department officials’ statements suggesting ignorance about key persons (such as the alleged money-demanding employee) raise questions about administrative vigilance. Delays in action will erode public trust.

Protection for whistleblowers

Staff who complained risk loss of livelihood, retaliation or black-listing if the system remains opaque. Ensuring protection and transparency is essential.

Policy reform requirement

Beyond investigating this case, systemic reforms are needed: direct recruitment, online transparent portals, third-party audits of tenders, fixed compliance deadlines and clear grievance redressal for staff.

investigations, reforms and risk of recurrence

Immediate next steps

• The health‐department and NHM will likely form an inquiry committee to audit the tender, staffing process and money demands.
• Aksa Construction Company’s contract may be reviewed; pending the outcome, contract suspension or termination is possible.
• Affected staff may seek reinstatement, compensation or alternative postings until the investigation concludes.

Medium/Long-term reforms

• Move toward online recruitment portals for clinic staffing with publicly viewable status updates and audit logs.
• Mandate zero-tolerance policy for money demands in job postings, with clear administrative and criminal consequences.
• Introduce third-party audits of contractor compliance and staff turnover to detect irregularities.
• Ensure direct recruitment by the state wherever feasible, reducing contractor‐driven staffing vulnerabilities.

Risks if unchecked

• Without decisive action, the Jaipur job-scam in health sector may become a template for similar frauds in other states or parts of Rajasthan.
• Morale among health-workers will decline, contract staffing will become further commoditised, and patients will suffer due to sub-par staffing.
• Public trust in government health-services will erode, leading to increased private-sector dependence and further cost burden on patients.

The Jaipur job-scam in health sector is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in public service recruitment—especially when contractors and weak oversight combine to allow money-for-job schemes. The allegations by staff that they were asked for money to secure a job and were dismissed when they refused, strike at the very principle of fairness and merit.

Jaipur, Oct.29,2025:The new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan refers to the online application platform that the Rajasthan Animal Husbandry Department will open in November for admissions to newly-established veterinary diploma and degree colleges across the state. According to media reports, the portal will remain open for seven days, during which new applicants can apply and previously registered candidates can update their documents and credentials-

This development is part of a broader move to reform the admission process in veterinary education, tighten regulatory oversight of colleges and enforce compliance with national standards.

Why the timing and impetus for change

There are several driving factors behind the launch of the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan–

• The state government, under Joraram Kumawat (Minister for Animal Husbandry), emphasised that “children’s future will not be compromised”. A review meeting pointed to weak compliance in some colleges, prompting reforms.
• The state already plans to bring admissions in veterinary colleges such as in Bharatpur, Sirohi, Kota under centralised counselling and online processes for transparency.
• Persistent issues about faculty attendance, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance in veterinary colleges made reforms necessary to ensure students truly receive quality education and the degrees hold value.
• The national regulator, the Veterinary Council of India (VCI), sets minimum standards for veterinary education under the MSVE-2016 guidelines. Reforms ensure state-level compliance aligns with this.

Thus, the portal is timely — it seeks to systematise admissions, strengthen oversight and improve the regulatory environment for veterinary education in Rajasthan.

Key Components of the Reform

Below are the major features of the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan reform initiative.

Launch and duration of the portal

The portal will open for a seven-day window in November, during which:

• New applicants can submit their forms for the upcoming academic session.
• Existing applicants (or those who had applied earlier) will be able to update their documents and re-verify credentials. This is explicitly stated in the announcement.
• The system is intended to cover both newly-emerging veterinary diploma and degree colleges in various districts of Rajasthan.

Biometric attendance requirement

A significant reform under the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan is the imposition of biometric attendance for faculty/staff in veterinary colleges. The Animal Husbandry Department has directed that colleges failing to ensure staff attendance via biometric systems will face action.

Key points-

• Faculty and non-teaching staff attendance must be recorded via biometric systems, ensuring real-time compliance.
• The cutoff date set by VCI for full compliance is 30 November 2025; after this date, colleges that flout rules may not be allowed to admit new students.
• Non-compliant institutions may be referred to VCI, likely triggering probation, derecognition, or suspension of admissions.

Strict referrals to VCI for errant colleges

Under the reform mechanism, any college found violating admission norms, infrastructure standards or faculty compliance will be referred to the Veterinary Council of India. The minister made it clear that no leniency will be shown.

This means-

• Colleges dispensing admissions outside the stipulated norms (e.g., without proper documentation, faculty absence, or insufficient infrastructure) are at risk.
• The link-up with VCI aims to ensure national-level regulatory enforcement, rather than only state-level monitoring.
• Ultimately, this raises the stakes for colleges: compliance is no longer optional but mandatory to continue operations.

Centralised oversight of faculty, admissions and documentation

The new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan also strengthens oversight by streamlining several processes-

• Admissions for veterinary degree and diploma colleges will increasingly shift to centralised online counselling (as seen in previous decisions to conduct counselling for ~1,200 seats).
• Documentation, seat mapping, faculty assessment, and infrastructure verification will be integrated digitally.
• Colleges will likely have to upload proof of compliance (attendance logs, biometric records, infrastructure audits) to maintain eligibility.
• The overhaul signals a move toward transparency, digital audit trails and reduced scope for arbitrary admissions.

Implications for students and colleges

The launch of the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan will have wide-ranging implications for both students and institutions.

For Students

• Prospective students will benefit from a clearer, more transparent application process via the portal.
• The update window for previously submitted applications means students have a second chance to ensure their credentials are up to date.
• With stricter compliance, degrees awarded will likely carry stronger credibility and better value.
• On the flip side, some existing applicants or colleges might face disqualification if colleges fail compliance checks, potentially impacting seat availability.

For Colleges

• Institutions must quickly ensure biometric attendance systems, documentation uploads and regulatory adherence. Those that lag risk losing admission rights.
• Colleges that uphold standards may gain an edge in attracting students by marketing their compliance and accreditation status.
• The reform may trigger institutional introspection: reviewing faculty deployment, enhancing infrastructure, upgrading digital systems.
• Smaller or under-resourced colleges could struggle to meet compliance, leading to consolidation or closure.

Institutional impact- on RAJUVAS and affiliated colleges

The reform under the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan will directly impact the Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (RAJUVAS) and its affiliated colleges.

• According to RAJUVAS’s official site, the university already oversees both degree (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) and diploma programmes, and has affiliated several colleges under its umbrella.
• The reforms will require RAJUVAS to coordinate with the portal, monitor college compliance and update accreditation and affiliation statuses accordingly.
• Colleges affiliated to RAJUVAS must align their curricula, staffing and documentation with both RAJUVAS standards and state directive.
• The result could be a more robust ecosystem of veterinary education in Rajasthan, producing better-qualified graduates for the field of animal husbandry, livestock health and rural economy.

Challenges and criticism of the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan reform

While the reforms are bold, several challenges and criticisms may emerge-

• Infrastructure readiness: Some colleges may lack the necessary digital infrastructure or biometric systems to comply by the deadline.
• Faculty availability: Ensuring full-time, qualified teaching staff across colleges is easier said than done, especially in remote locations.
• Transparency vs execution: While portal-based systems promise transparency, execution glitches (system failures, delays, verification backlog) could create bottlenecks.
• Impact on smaller colleges: Institutions with limited resources may face compliance pressure, risking closure or loss of admissions – raising concerns about access and regional equity.
• Students’ uncertainty: If a college fails compliance after students have applied, it may lead to seat cancellations or confusion, affecting student planning and trust.
• Regulatory enforcement: While referral to VCI is a strong move, the actual follow-through and timelines for action will determine the reform’s credibility.

What’s next – timeline, deadlines and monitoring

Here are the key milestones and what to watch under the new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan reform-

• November (upcoming): Portal opens for seven-day online application window for new veterinary colleges, as announced.
• 30 November 2025: Deadline for biometric attendance compliance in veterinary colleges. Colleges violating rules after this date may be barred from admitting new students.
• Continuous monitoring: The department and RAJUVAS will likely publish a list of compliant vs non-compliant colleges, update affiliation statuses and provide student notifications.
• Future admissions: Post-portal and compliance era may usher in centralised online counselling for veterinary colleges, following the model seen in the 1,200-seat admissions system earlier.
• Audit & enforcement: Colleges will face audits of faculty attendance, documentation, infrastructure. Non-compliance may trigger referrals to VCI, and possibly loss of accreditation.

The new veterinary colleges portal Rajasthan marks a significant push towards institutional reform in veterinary education in Rajasthan. By opening an online portal in November, making biometric attendance mandatory, and enforcing regulatory compliance via the VCI, the state government is signalling its intent to raise standards, ensure transparency and protect students’ futures.

Brazil, Oct.29,2025:largest ever police encounter kicked off in the northern favelas of Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, marking what officials have declared the city’s most massive one-day security operation in history. The scale, casualties and global attention it drew make it far more than another routine raid. At least 64 people were killed and 81 arrested during the sweep-

In a moment that has stunned both Brazil and the world, the region’s long-standing battle with organised crime reached a new apex. For the residents of Brazil and observers abroad, the operation underscores how fraught, complex and high-stakes urban policing has become.

The scope of the operation in Rio de Janeiro

Governor Cláudio Castro of the state of Rio de Janeiro described the mission as the largest operation ever against the gang known as Comando Vermelho (“Red Command”). Roughly 2,500 military and civilian police officers were deployed across the favelas of Complexo do Alemão and Complexo da Penha in the city’s north.

• The targeted areas are historic strongholds of the Comando Vermelho gang.
• According to reports, the police operation executed hundreds of warrants, with armoured vehicles, helicopters and specialised forces participating.

This scale and coordination highlight the government’s decision to escalate the confrontation, not just as a one-off raid, but as a strategic strike.

Who is Comando Vermelho and why they were targeted

To understand the significance of this largest ever police encounter, it’s crucial to examine the target: Comando Vermelho.

• The gang is one of Brazil’s oldest and most powerful criminal organisations, originally emerging during the country’s military dictatorship era and expanding into vast drug-trafficking and extortion networks.
• It exerts control over multiple favelas in Rio, using both violent force and complicity to maintain its hold.
• The state government asserted the raid was planned for over a year to counter the gang’s territorial expansion and logistics.

By targeting Comando Vermelho, the authorities were taking aim at one of the central nodes of organised crime in Latin America.

How the encounter unfolded

In what can only be described as the core of the largest ever police encounter, the operation quickly turned into a violent confrontation.

Tactics and resistance

• Reports mention the gang used heavy resistance: setting up barricades, burning vehicles and even deploying drones to attack police.
• Smoke plumes were visible in the early hours, raised by burning buses and cars to block police movement.
• Police seized large numbers of weapons: rifles (in some accounts 93), half-a-ton of drugs and many gang hideouts.

Casualties and arrests

• Official counts at least 64 people killed, including 4 police officers.
• 81 people arrested in the sweep.
• Many more wounded, and the operations disrupted dozens of neighbourhoods, schools and transit routes.

The high death toll and the magnitude of resistance mark this as not just a raid—but a battle.

Aftermath and reactions: from victims to investigations

Official reactions

• Governor Castro declared the city “at war” with narcoterrorism.
• The state government posted on social media that this was the “largest ever operation” in Rio’s history.

Human rights and international reactions

• The United Nations Human Rights Office said it was “horrified” by the death toll and called for a full investigation.
• Activist groups criticised the operation, pointing to the risk of civilian casualties and the repeated pattern of lethal policing in marginalised communities.
•  
• Impact on communities

• Schools and universities in the affected areas were shut down for safety.
• The raid triggered fear and unrest among residents, many of whom live below the poverty line and are caught between gangs and police.
• For local families, confusion and trauma continue as they await definitive casualty figures and explanations.

Why this clash matters globally

The significance of this largest ever police encounter extends beyond Brazil’s borders.

• For global security watchers, the operation highlights the evolving nature of gang warfare in urban areas, especially in societies where inequality and marginalised zones enable organised crime.
• Brazil is preparing to host major international events (including the COP30 climate summit) and such violent disruptions pose reputational and safety risks.
• The use of drones and high-end weaponry by non-state actors underscores how policing must evolve in the 21st century.

Challenges and criticisms of the operation

No review of this behemoth mission is complete without acknowledging the questions raised-

• Was the largest ever police encounter also the most indiscriminate? Critics say the high death toll may include non-combatants.
• Does heavy militarised policing address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, inequality and lack of services? Some security analysts argue no.
• How transparent will the follow-up investigations be? With such a death toll, demands for forensic review and accountability are high.
• Could the raid create a power vacuum, leading to further violence as other gangs or factions move in? The risk of escalation is real.

What’s next — implications for policing and crime in Brazil

Looking ahead post the largest ever police encounter, several developments to watch-

• Federal vs state coordination: The operation was led at the state level and sparked debate about national involvement.
• Policy reform: Will Brazil adopt less-lethal tactics, more community-based policing or invest in social programmes to break the cycle?
• Monitoring of gang adaptation: Comando Vermelho and other organisations may evolve faster than police ability to respond.
• International scrutiny: Brazil’s human rights record will face further challenges at global forums, particularly in light of the UN’s reaction.
• Resilience of communities: Whether the favelas will rebuild trust and normalcy after such a large-scale confrontation remains uncertain.

The largest ever police encounter in Rio de Janeiro on 28 October 2025 stands as a stark turning point in urban crime-fighting history. With 64 dead and 81 arrested in one sweeping operation, the state’s message is clear: the era of tolerate-and-contain gangster-fiefdoms in Rio may be ending.