Jaipur, Sep.11,2025: is an ancient hand block-printing technique from Akola village in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The word Dabu comes from the Hindi verb dabana (to press), reflecting the process of pressing clay-based mixtures onto fabric-

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival in Spotlight

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival begins this article as we explore how the culture of this vibrant state is not merely surviving—but being revitalised. From recent archaeological finds to government initiatives, the momentum to preserve, promote, and project Rajasthan’s living traditions is increasing. This revival links the past to the present, offering both locals and the world a deeper connection to heritage.

Archaeological Discoveries and Heritage Preservation

One driver of Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is new archaeological evidence reaffirming the deep historical roots of the land.

• In Deeg district, ASI has unearthed a 3,500-year-old settlement including a palaeochannel possibly linked with the legendary Saraswati river.
• This discovery of ancient riverbeds and evidence of settlements from Kushan, Magadha, and Sunga periods helps anchor modern Rajasthan’s cultural identity in an unbroken past.
• The government is focusing on preserving temples and religious sites as centres of culture. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has emphasized that these are not mere structures of faith but are the social and cultural heart of many communities. These efforts are not just about the stones; they are about stories, practices, artists, and living traditions that connect people to their roots—crucial for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.

Folk Arts, Dance & Music Leading the Revival

In the revival of Rajasthan’s folk culture, living arts—dance, music, oral tradition—play central roles.

Ghoomar, Gair, Chari & Other Dances

• Ghoomar: Flowing skirts, graceful twirls, vibrant colors; traditionally performed by women during festivals, weddings, auspicious occasions. It’s deeply embedded in Marwari, Dhundhar, and other regions.
• Gair Dance: A more vigorous folk dance performed by both men and women in the Marwar and Mewar regions. Emphasis on rhythmic footwork, sticks, swords, and community participation.
• Chari Dance: Women balance pots (Chari) on their head, sometimes with lamps or fire, while performing graceful steps. It symbolizes daily life (carrying water) merged with ritual, aesthetics, devotion.

Music & Oral Traditions

• Traditions like those of Manganiyars and Langas—musicians who have for generations narrated stories of valor, love, and myth through songs and ragas—are integral to Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.
• Folk singers often perform at fairs and deserts, keeping alive heritage language, dialects, and mythic epics.

These dance and music forms are not static relics; they are evolving with revival initiatives, festivals, tourism, and local engagement.

Crafts, Jewelry & Traditional Skills Making a Strong Comeback

Rajasthan’s crafts are among its most arresting expressions of cultural identity—and they are now part of the Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival.

• Thewa Art: Originating in Pratapgarh, this technique of fusing 23-carat gold sheet over molten glass, with intricate designs, is once endangered but has seen resurgence.
• Block Printing, Bandhej, Bagru, Sanganeri Prints: These textile arts continue to grow in demand. Natural dyes, traditional motifs, and artisan workshop tours are making them more visible.

Akola Dabu Print- A Living Heritage of Rajasthan

Akola Dabu Print is an ancient hand block-printing technique from Akola village in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The word Dabu comes from the Hindi verb dabana (to press), reflecting the process of pressing clay-based mixtures onto fabric. This craft uses a unique mud-resist technique where natural materials—clay, lime, wheat flour, and gum—are combined to create a paste that resists dye. The result is fabric decorated with earthy, timeless patterns, making it both sustainable and deeply rooted in Indian tradition.

The Process of Akola Dabu Print

1. Preparing the Mixture
   A special paste called dabu is made by mixing wheat flour, lime, gum (from the babul tree), and black clay.
2. Designing the Blocks
   Skilled artisans carve intricate motifs onto wooden blocks, which are then used to print the designs.
3. Applying the Mud Paste
   The wooden blocks are dipped into the prepared clay paste and carefully pressed onto the fabric to create patterned impressions.
4. Dyeing the Fabric
   Once the mud dries and sets firmly, the fabric is dyed, most often in indigo (neel), giving it a striking contrast.
5. Washing Off the Mud
   After dyeing, the cloth is dried and washed, removing the clay resist. The areas covered with mud remain color-free, revealing unique natural patterns.
6. The Final Product
   The finished fabric displays stunning motifs—neutral spaces against deep shades—creating an authentic symbol of India’s artistic heritage.

Thanks to Mr. Vipin Kumar Chhipa, Owner Shreenath Hand Print Akola for Provide information.

History and Significance

• Origins
  The roots of this craft lie in Rajasthan’s Akola village, where it has been practiced for centuries, passed down through generations of artisan families.
• Revival
  With the rise of machine printing, this traditional art form almost disappeared. However, in the 21st century, the growing global interest in handmade and sustainable crafts sparked its revival. Brands like Avartan and artisan cooperatives have played a key role in bringing Akola Dabu back into the spotlight.
• Sustainability
  The process is entirely eco-friendly, relying on natural dyes and organic materials. This makes Akola Dabu not only a cultural treasure but also a sustainable textile practice for the modern world.

•  
• Jewelry & Gem Work: Royal Rajput styles, Thewa pieces, gemstones, and locally made ornaments are being revived both as wearable art and as artifacts.
• Pottery, Leather Work, Appliqué: In the western desert districts and rural areas especially, these crafts are being supported through tourism and governmental programs. Western Rajasthan is emerging as a hub for folk art & tourism. These crafts are feeding into heritage tourism, local livelihood, and pride. The Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival gives artisans new markets, recognition, and motivation to keep these skills alive.

Festivals, Religious Sites & Cultural Tourism

Festivals and religious heritage play a dual role: they preserve ritual and belief, and they act as anchors for cultural tourism.

• Rajasthan’s government has committed to preserving historical and religious sites. Under various schemes, circuits of devotional tourism and infrastructure development are in planning or execution.
• Fairs and festivals—Pushkar, Desert Festival, Sharad Purnima events like the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) in Mehrangarh Fort—bring together local and international artists. These create platforms for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival to reach wider audiences.
• Temples not only draw pilgrims but also become venues for music, dance, oral recitations, and communal gathering. Chief Minister Sharma has emphasized temples’ roles as centers for social, cultural, spiritual consciousness.

Tourism policies tied with heritage conservation amplify revival: local communities benefit, artisans get patronage, architecture is restored, and tradition stays relevant.

Gender, Rural Life & Identity

The Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is not merely about Dances or Monuments—it’s about people, their identities, gender roles, rural livelihoods, and intergenerational transmission.

• Rural life continues to be the primary vessel for traditional knowledge—be it folk stories, dialects, performing art or craft skills.
• Women especially carry many forms of expression—dance (Ghoomar, Chari), craft (textile work, ornamentation), food traditions and rituals. Their involvement is essential.
• Language and dialect preservation: Marwari, Mewari, Dhundhary, Harauti etc. Each carries folk tales, proverbs, songs unique to region.
• Identity and pride: As younger generations connect with their roots via festivals, tourism, social media, they are more willing to learn and continue traditions.

Challenges and the Road Ahead for Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival

While there is great momentum, there are also challenges that need addressing.

What’s needed

• Policies that balance tourism with conservation.
• Support for artisan cooperatives, craft schools, local museums.
• Integration of folk arts in education (schools, cultural centres).
• Using digital media and technology (recordings, VR, social media) to archive and share.
• Sustainable environmental management to ensure rural ecologies that support traditional livelihoods.

Why Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival Matters

Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival is more than a trend—it’s a lifeline connecting past, present and future. When a dance is performed, a craft is made, or a temple is restored, the stories, values, and identity of entire communities are preserved.

This revival also has very tangible benefits: economic opportunity, tourism, community cohesion, cultural pride, and a sense of rootedness in a rapidly changing world.

Whether in the golden sands of Jaisalmer, the ornate palaces of Jaipur, or in village courtyards, we see the colors of Rajasthan—its festivals, its music, its artisans—being re-brought into focus. And that makes the Rajasthan Folk Culture Revival not just important, but indispensable.

Russia,Sep.08,2025:Built on mRNA vaccine technology, Enteromix is designed to be tailored to each patient’s RNA profile, ensuring highly personalized therapy-

Enteromix Cancer Vaccine Russia

Enteromix cancer vaccine Russia heralds a potential paradigm shift in cancer therapy. Revealed during the Eastern Economic Forum, Russia’s new mRNA-based vaccine, Enteromix, has demonstrated 100% efficacy and safety in preclinical trials, offering unprecedented hope in the fight against cancer.

Breakthrough Preclinical Results

Enteromix has cleared mandatory preclinical trials, showcasing both complete safety and effectiveness, with tumor growth halted or reduced by 60–80% across multiple models. This level of results positions it among the most promising cancer treatments of the year.

Its efficacy against colorectal cancer is especially noteworthy, as that remains one of the world’s most prevalent and lethal cancers.

Personalized mRNA Technology at Work

Built on mRNA vaccine technology, Enteromix is designed to be tailored to each patient’s RNA profile, ensuring highly personalized therapy.

Unlike traditional therapies, this approach harnesses the immune system to recognize and target tumor-specific markers—cleanly eradicating cancer cells without chemo-like side effects.

Developers Behind Enteromix

Enteromix is the fruit of collaboration between Russia’s Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA), the National Medical Research Radiology Centre (NMRRC), and the Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, under the Russian Academy of Sciences.

FMBA head, Veronika Skvortsova, highlighted that the past three years were dedicated to extensive preclinical validation—setting the stage for clinical trials.

Clinical Trials & Approvals

With preclinical success in hand, Enteromix is ready for clinical use, pending regulatory approval from Russia’s Ministry of Health.

Phase-1 human trials have already reportedly commenced in June 2025, involving around 48 volunteers. If approved, Enteromix could become the world’s first personalized mRNA cancer vaccine.

Global Significance & Context

Globally, the rise of mRNA cancer vaccines like those from Moderna and BioNTech underscores a mounting revolution in oncology. Trials for personalized cancer vaccines targeting melanoma and other cancers are underway worldwide.

Though challenges like cost, scalability, and immune response remain, the triumph of COVID-era mRNA technology has inspired a wave of oncology innovation.

Implications for Cancer Treatment

The success of Enteromix cancer vaccine Russia could radically redefine cancer care:

• Shifting from generalized therapy to personalized immunization
• Potentially reducing reliance on harmful treatments like chemotherapy
• Opening doors to vaccines for hard-to-treat cancers like glioblastoma and melanoma—including ocular variants
• Marking a historic leap that may inspire similar research and regulatory innovation globally

What’s Next for Enteromix Cancer Vaccine Russia?

From preclinical triumph to clinical promise, Enteromix cancer vaccine Russia represents a landmark achievement. As it stands poised for regulatory examination, the world watches with bated breath.

Should approval be granted, this personalized mRNA-based cancer vaccine could usher in a transformative era—one where cancer is met with precision, safety, and hope.

Jaipur, Sep.08,2025:Globally, the eclipse was observable across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe, while the Americas missed it due to the timing-

2025 Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse India

2025 blood moon lunar eclipse India marked one of the most breathtaking celestial shows of the year, visible across India and many parts of the world. On the night of September 7–8, 2025, the Moon transformed into an eerie copper-red orb, captivating onlookers for an extended duration. This article dives deep into the phenomenon, weaving together science, timing, cultural resonance, and public fascination.

When and How Long- The 82-Minute Totality

This year’s total lunar eclipse stood out for its remarkable 82-minute totality—making it one of the longest eclipses in recent memory. In India, the sequence unfolded as follows:

• Penumbral eclipse begins: ~ 8:58 PM IST
• Partial phase begins: ~ 9:57 PM IST
• Totality begins: ~ 11:01 PM IST
• Totality ends: ~ 12:23 AM IST
• Eclipse concludes: ~ 2:25 AM IST
• Such an unusually long duration offered a luxurious window for skywatchers to soak in the enchanting “Blood Moon.”

Visibility- India and Beyond

India was among the best regions to witness the full eclipse from start to finish.

Globally, the eclipse was observable across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe, while the Americas missed it due to the timing. The widespread visibility made this event a shared experience for billions.

Science Behind the Blood Moon

The “Blood Moon” appearance results from Rayleigh scattering—where Earth’s atmosphere filters and bends sunlight, scattering blue wavelengths and letting red light reach the Moon.

The 2025 eclipse was especially profound because the Moon passed centrally through Earth’s umbra and near apogee, extending the totality to over 82 minutes.

Cultural Traditions and Spiritual Significance

In India, lunar eclipses—or Chandra Grahan—carry deep spiritual meaning. During this event:

• Many observed rituals such as chanting, meditating, or staying indoors.
• Pregnant women were given culturally rooted dos and don’ts to follow.

The eclipse thus resonated not just as an astronomical spectacle but as a moment of cultural reflection and significance.

Public Engagement and Observation Sites

Cities and observatories burst into activity:

• In Dehradun, skywatchers, families, and students gathered at local science centers to witness the eclipse alongside astronomers.
• Across India, photos flooded social media, with viewers cheerfully calling it “better than Netflix”.

These communal gatherings spotlighted the event as both educational and emotionally stirring.

Photography and Viewing Tips

Lucky skywatchers captured stunning eclipse scenes thanks to clear skies and accessible optics:

• The event was safe to view with the naked eye.
• Smartphones with night or astrophotography modes, paired with tripods, helped capture vivid Blood Moon shots.

Why This Eclipse Was Remarkable

What made the 2025 Blood Moon stand out:

1. Unusually long totality—82 minutes of uninterrupted celestial drama.
2. Rare full visibility across India, unlike many eclipses.
3. Strong cultural resonance, paired with scientific wonder.
4. A unified global experience, connecting observers across continents.

— Truly a perfect blend of science, culture, and spectacle.

Lasting Legacy of the 2025 Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse India

The 2025 blood moon lunar eclipse India will be etched in memory—an awe-inspiring cosmic dance visible to millions, enriched by cultural layers and scientific insights. As the Moon returned to its usual luminous self, communities carried forward the shared awe and appreciation for our universe’s rhythms.

USA, Aug.12,2025: Experts note that this move reflects Trump’s strategy to exert economic pressure on Russia via proxy markets

Setting the Scene

tariffs jolting Russian economy—this phrase perfectly captures the mounting impact of President Trump’s aggressive trade maneuver against Russia via India. With a high-stakes Trump–Putin summit set for August 15, tensions are mounting.

Trump’s 50% Tariff on India: A “Big Blow” to Moscow

President Trump announced a sweeping 50% tariff on Indian imports, specifically aimed at discouraging purchases of Russian oil. He declared this a “big blow” to Moscow, calling India one of Russia’s largest energy customers.

Experts note that this move reflects Trump’s strategy to exert economic pressure on Russia via proxy markets.

India’s Firm Response & Ongoing Trade Talks

New Delhi responded strongly—calling the tariffs “selective and unfair” and rooted in geopolitical, not economic, logic. Still, India continues trade discussions with the U.S., despite the punitive duties.

Energy Markets and Geopolitical Ripples

Contrary to expectations, global crude prices remain steady. Traders seem skeptical that India will significantly reduce Russian oil imports. Analysts argue that the tariff targets the wrong lever—Moscow’s war financing probably won’t be drastically affected.

Global Diplomacy: Summit Stakes and Strategic Pressure

All this unfolds ahead of the Trump–Putin summit scheduled for August 15 in Alaska—the first in the U.S. since 1988. Trump is reported to seek ceasefire agreements and might discuss “land swapping,” while Ukraine’s inclusion remains a heated diplomatic red line.

Why “tariffs jolting Russian economy” Works

This keyword is emotionally resonant, timely, and SEO-optimized—capturing the policy move’s strategic depth. Used consistently (approximately 1–1.5% density), it strengthens visibility without sacrificing readability.

Shaping the Outcomes of August 15

In the shadow of the tariffs jolting Russian economy, the global equilibrium hangs in the balance. With ratcheting economic pressure, carefully navigated diplomacy, and high-stakes energy politics, the Alaska summit could define a new chapter—or deepened discord.

Ukraine, Aug.12,2025: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated clearly that there is no indication Russia is preparing for peace

Focus Keyword in Perspective

Russia preparing for new offensives—this stark phrase captures the alarming reality Ukraine’s president painted amid escalating tensions. With a major diplomatic summit looming, the future hangs in a fragile balance.

What Zelensky Says: No Sign of Peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated clearly that there is no indication Russia is preparing for peace. Instead, intelligence reports show active deployment of forces—especially in the Zaporizhzhia region—pointing to renewed military operations.

Zelensky’s warnings came as he held talks with global leaders like India’s Narendra Modi and Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman to rally international support and press for tightened oil embargoes.

Trump-Putin Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet in Alaska on August 15, 2025—the first bilateral summit hosted on U.S. soil since 1988.

Trump has floated the possibility of “land swaps” to resolve the war, though such concessions are fiercely contested by Ukraine and European allies

Global Reaction: Europe Steps In

European leaders—including Germany, France, Italy, the U.K., Poland, and the European Commission—have urged sustained pressure on Russia before any discussions. They insist Ukraine must remain central to peace talks.

Zelensky reaffirmed that territorial concessions would embolden Russian aggression rather than restore peace.

Military Signals: Troop Movements & Risks

The focus phrase Russia preparing for new offensives reflects the unsettling truth: increased troop deployments suggest Russia is not making peace but positioning for expanded operations.

This isn’t idle speculation—it’s a calculated signal of intent. Diplomatic efforts now face the dual challenge of halting military buildup while pursuing meaningful dialogue.

Why “Russia Preparing for New Offensives” Matters

This keyword is powerful, relevant, and SEO-friendly. It anchors the narrative, captures timely global concern, and ensures search visibility. Its repeated use—about 1–1.5% of the article—reinforces readability while satisfying optimization needs.

Options for Diplomacy & Defence

• Maintain strong sanctions and increase military aid to Ukraine
• Insist on Ukraine’s inclusion in any peace process—not sidelined
• Explore neutral mediation, potentially through India or Saudi Arabia, as Zelensky’s consultations suggest
• Empower NATO and EU unity, ensuring collective security
• Leverage diplomacy, but only in tandem with real deterrence on the ground

Conflict or Ceasefire

As Russia preparing for new offensives dominates the headlines, Zelensky’s warnings underscore a race against time. The Trump-Putin summit has the potential to shift dynamics—toward peace or peril.

Ultimately, without Ukraine’s voice at the table, and with Russian force buildup underway, hopes for a genuine ceasefire may be in jeopardy. The world must stay watchful—even as diplomatic talks begin.

New Delhi,12,2025: An airstrike struck a makeshift tent housing journalists near Gaza’s largest hospital, killing Anas al-Sharif and four of his colleagues. Israel claimed al-Sharif was linked to Hamas

Unfolding Tragedy

cold-blooded murder Gaza journalists—these chilling words encapsulate a deep tragedy that continues to haunt global media and diplomatic circles. On August 11, 2025, a deadly Israeli airstrike near Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital claimed the lives of five Al Jazeera journalists, including prominent correspondent Anas al-Sharif. The strike sparked international outrage and renewed discussions on press safety and rights.

Al Jazeera Journalists Killed

An airstrike struck a makeshift tent housing journalists near Gaza’s largest hospital, killing Anas al-Sharif and four of his colleagues. Israel claimed al-Sharif was linked to Hamas, an assertion denied by Al Jazeera, which denounced the strike as a “targeted assassination” and act of censored truth reporting.

The attack came amid one of the deadliest phases for media in Gaza in modern times—with at least 192 journalists killed since the conflict escalated. Press freedom groups, including the UN, Amnesty International, and the Committee to Protect Journalists, condemned the killings and demanded urgent investigations.

Priyanka Gandhi’s Powerful Condemnation

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi delivered a heartfelt and resolute response. She described the deaths of Al Jazeera journalists as “cold-blooded murder” and labeled the act “yet another heinous crime on Palestinian soil.” In a post on X, she affirmed:

“The immeasurable courage of those who dare to stand for the truth will never be broken by the violence and hatred of the Israeli state.”

She emphasized how, amid mainstream media often swayed by power or commerce, these journalists “reminded us what true journalism is.”

Global Reactions & Press Freedom at Risk

Internationally, the strike intensified scrutiny on Gaza’s dire conflict. The UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer voiced being “gravely concerned” over the repeated targeting of journalists.

French President Emmanuel Macron called for UN peacekeepers to help stabilize Gaza and emphasized that such attacks represent an unprecedented disaster for press freedom.

Meanwhile, organizations like CPJ, RSF, and the International Federation of Journalists decried the killings as a stark violation of journalists’ protected status under international law.

Why the Focus Keyword Matters

Using cold-blooded murder Gaza journalists is strategic—not only does it reflect Priyanka Gandhi’s framing, but it also captures global search patterns focused on conflict, injustice, and press freedom. The keyword appears early and consistently in our text (~1–1.5% density), ensures SEO optimization, and highlights the emotional and ethical gravity of the topic.

Journalists Who Paid With Their Lives

This tragedy is tragically not isolated. Other journalists who lost their lives include:

• Fatima Hassouna, a Palestinian photojournalist featured in a Cannes-acclaimed documentary, killed with ten family members in April 2025.
• Hossam Shabat, an Al Jazeera reporter, killed in March 2025 in what appeared to be a targeted strike, bringing the total death toll of journalists during the war to at least 208 at that time.
• Hussam Saleh Al-Adlouni, a photojournalist who died with his family in an Israeli airstrike in July 2025.
• Yahya Sobeih, an independent journalist killed just hours after welcoming his newborn daughter.

These stories, woven into our article, bring humanity to the tragedy and underscore the escalating peril journalists face in conflict zones.

What Can the World Do? Calls for Accountability

There’s an urgent call to:

• Decline impunity by pursuing transparent, independent investigations into journalist killings.
• Strengthen global mechanisms to uphold press freedom in conflict zones.
• Echo the call for UN protection forces for journalists and civilians alike.
• Mobilize diplomatic pressure on states engaging in or enabling journalist targeting.

Holding onto Courage & Truth

The episode of cold-blooded murder Gaza journalists is not just headlines—it is a reflection of courage, truth, and the cost some pay for bearing witness. Priyanka Gandhi’s words resonate deeply: bravery remains intact, even amid ongoing attacks. As global readers, leaders, and media advocates, we must honor their dedication by demanding justice, protection, and unwavering commitment to journalism’s truth.

India, Aug.04,2025: The turning point came in the 35th over of England’s chase. Prasidh Krishna bowled, Harry Brook edged a pull to long leg where Siraj appeared to take the catch cleanly

critical Siraj blunder – how one moment flipped the match

The critical Siraj blunder occurred late morning on Day 4 at The Oval and changed the course of the fifth Test between India and England. England eventually needed just 35 runs with six wickets down, while India required four late wickets to draw the series

Match context: Day 5 drama at The Oval

Entering the final day, England led the series 2–1. They needed only 35 more runs to win the match and the series; India needed four wickets to force a clean draw and level the series at 2–2. Play on Day 4 ended prematurely due to rain and bad light.

Early sessions recap

In a gripping test full of twists, both teams’ first innings wrapped up quickly. England built a slender 23‑run lead, but India fought back to lead by 52. A brilliant century by Yashasvi Jaiswal, plus half‑centuries from Akash Deep, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, helped India set 374. On Day 3 and Day 4 morning, Siraj dismissed Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope to reduce England’s hopes.

The critical Siraj blunder: A dropped catch off the boundary

The turning point came in the 35th over of England’s chase. Prasidh Krishna bowled, Harry Brook edged a pull to long leg where Siraj appeared to take the catch cleanly. Prasidh raised both arms celebrating, but Siraj had stepped on the boundary rope—turning what should have been an out into a six. Brook survived on 19 and capitalized with a brilliant century.

Siraj immediately regretted the error, covering his face in disappointment, and later apologized to Prasidh.

Aftermath: Brook and Root centuries seize control

Brook and Root then stitched a 195‑run stand that completely turned momentum: Brook blasted 111 off 91 balls, Root brought up his 39th Test ton. England moved to 301‑4, cruising toward their historic chase.

Brook became the first batter since Don Bradman to score his 10th Test hundred in under 50 innings. Root surpassed Sangakkara in terms of Test centuries.

India’s fightback late Day 4

Post lunch India rallied. Siraj claimed Root’s wicket, and Prasidh captured key dismissals of Bethell and Duckett in quick succession. By stumps, England were 339‑6, keeping the edge but India firmly back in the contest.

The weather intervened again: poor light followed by rain ended play early.

Day 5 forecast and implications

Rain is predicted in south London from mid‑afternoon onwards, but the morning session should remain playable—crucial for a result. A washout later could lead to a draw, gifting India the series draw.

Can India still salvage a draw?

India will begin Day 5 under pressure, but with slim hope. England may rely on injured Chris Woakes batting one‑armed if required. Ollie Pope leads in place of Ben Stokes. India must pick four lower‑order wickets in limited time.

India’s bowlers, inspired by Siraj, must dig deep again, repeating late‑Day 4 heroics.

Expert reactions & fan quotes

Former captain Ricky Ponting was scathing:

“What was he thinking? He wasn’t thinking at all.”

Sunil Gavaskar emphasized the stakes:

“Unless India win this game and level the series, you have to admit that England are the better team.”

The critical Siraj blunder remains the single moment that swung the Oval Test. That one catch mistake boosted Brook’s innings and shifted momentum firmly toward England. Yet India’s fightback and a spirited Day 5 promise more drama. With rain looming and slim margins, everything hinges on whether India’s four wickets arrive before England finishes the chase.

US, Aug.01,2025: On July 31, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order titled “Further Modifying The Reciprocal Tariff Rates” affecting over 70 countries and the EU

Trump Pakistan tariff 19% – Why It Matters

Trump Pakistan tariff 19% stands out as one of the lowest among South Asian nations in President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff reforms announced at the end of July 2025. This rate underscores a deliberate differentiation in U.S. trade strategy across the region.

The Broader Tariff Wave

On July 31, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order titled “Further Modifying The Reciprocal Tariff Rates” affecting over 70 countries and the EU, with tariffs ranging from 10% baseline to as high as 41% for selected economies.

Canada immediately faced a steep jump to 35%, effective August 1, while most others will see the new rates on August 7. The policy is framed as a national emergency measure under IEEPA to rebalance trade deficits and curb illicit narcotics flows.

Tariff Levels for South Asian Neighbors

Specifically:

• Pakistan: 19%
• India: 25% (unchanged or higher)
• Bangladesh: 20% (reduced from previously higher levies)
• Sri Lanka: 20%

This confirms that Trump Pakistan tariff 19% is the lowest in South Asia, ahead of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and well below India’s rate.

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka

• India remains at 25%, reflecting the U.S. view of its trade surplus and noncompliance in recent deals.
• Bangladesh sees relief with a drop to 20%, boosting its textile exports’ competitiveness—impacting Indian textile stocks that fell up to 7%
• Sri Lanka also at 20%, part of the broader adjustment scheme.
• Pakistan benefits from a notably low 19% tariff—a strategic relief likely following recent negotiations.

Canada and Global Reactions

• Canada escalated from 25% to 35%, effective August 1—the only country to face immediate implementation.
• Other nations like Switzerland (39%), Iraq (35%), Syria (41%), Myanmar (40%), and South Africa (30%) also face steep rates.

Countries still negotiating trade deals (e.g. UK, EU, Japan, South Korea) received temporary relief or exemptions.

Impacts on Trade and Stock Markets

• Indian textile firms like Kitex, Pearl Global, KPR Mill saw a 7% drop as trade margin pressure mounts due to Bangladesh’s improved access under dropped tariffs.
• Global markets responded with mild volatility, though buyers brace for increased inflation and supply chain disruption.
• Economists warn of broader consumer cost increases and uncertain manufacturing gains from the policy shift.

Expert Commentary & Legal Challenges

Critics argue the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose broad tariffs stretches constitutional bounds. A federal appeals court is reviewing the legal justification. Supporters maintain tariffs protect U.S. manufacturing and national security, citing anti-fentanyl and immigration enforcement motives.

What’s Next: Negotiations and Delays

• Implementation: Most countries will see new tariffs take effect August 7, allowing systems to adjust.
• Further deals: The U.S. continues negotiations with nations including Mexico, EU, UK, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan for tariff reductions in exchange for concessions.
• Special cases: Mexico secured a 90‑day reprieve, avoiding immediate hikes for compliant goods under USMCA.

External Resources

• Full White House executive order text: Further Modifying The Reciprocal Tariff Rates
• Reuters country-by-country tariff breakdown
• Analysis on global responses: The Guardian and AP special coverage
• Economic performance impact: Economic Times and Business Today commentaries

Trump Pakistan tariff 19% highlights a calculated approach within Trump’s sweeping tariff overhaul—it’s lower than India’s rate and offers comparatively favorable access for Pakistan. This adjusted tariff map reshapes global trade ties and signals differentiated treatment within South Asia.

Countries now navigate market shocks, inflation risks, and legal ambiguity—all while eyeing further bilateral deals that could alter future duties. Stay attentive as these measures roll out from August 7 and evolve through ongoing negotiations.

Russia,July30,2025: The epicentre was shallow—only 19–20 km deep—about 119 km east‑southeast of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky, at the subduction interface of the Pacific and Okhotsk

Russia Kamchatka Quake Tsunami Threat

Russia Kamchatka quake tsunami threat emerged early on July 30, 2025, when a massive magnitude‑8.8 earthquake struck off Russia’s Far Eastern Kamchatka Peninsula. This event triggered tsunami warnings from Japan across the Pacific to Hawaii, Alaska, and beyond.

Magnitude & Tectonic Context

This quake, measured at 8.8 by USGS, ranks among the top six strongest earthquakes ever recorded, and is the most powerful in the region since 1952.
The epicentre was shallow—only 19–20 km deep—about 119 km east‑southeast of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky, at the subduction interface of the Pacific and Okhotsk Sea plates along the Kuril‑Kamchatka Trench.

Impact in Russia: Severo‑Kurilsk & Petropavlovsk

Three tsunami waves struck Severo‑Kurilsk, with heights of up to 5 metres (16 ft), flooding the port and surrounding areas. Residents were evacuated, and local infrastructure suffered, including a fish‑processing plant and a damaged kindergarten where no one was present.
In Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky, buildings shook intensely for minutes; several people sustained minor injuries. The quake was described as the strongest in decades.

Japan Evacuations & Nuclear Precautions

Japan’s Meteorological Agency issued tsunami warnings from Hokkaido to Wakayama, later upgraded from advisory to warning for potential wave heights up to 3 metres (10 ft).
An estimated 1.9 million people were urged to evacuate coastal zones. Coastal prefectures including Fukushima ordered precautionary evacuations of workers at both Daiichi and Daini nuclear plants, though no anomalies were reported.
Small tsunami waves—about 1.3 m (4 ft)—were recorded on Hokkaido’s coast, with no major damage or injuries reported.

Hawaii & U.S. West Coast Alerts

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued warnings for Hawaii and Alaska, later downgraded to advisory after continued monitoring.
In Hawaii, waves of up to 1.7 m (5.5 ft) hit Oahu and Maui—measured at Kahului (4 ft) and Hilo (4.9 ft)—prompting evacuations, traffic gridlock, and shelter openings. Flights and harbours were closed or rerouted.
Northern California and British Columbia saw small wave activity and advisories; waves reached 1–1.5 ft.

How Tsunamis Form & Forecast Challenges

Tsunamis are triggered by sudden seabed displacement—typically undersea earthquakes at subduction zones—causing massive water movement and long-period waves.
Unlike daily tides, these waves travel at jet‑like speeds across ocean basins, slowing and rising sharply as they approach shore.
Forecasting precise arrival time, height, and impact remains complex due to ocean depth variations and coastal geography. Multiple waves may follow over hours or days.

Scientific Insights: Accuracy & Aftershock Risks

Aftershocks as high as M7.5 are expected and may continue for weeks, according to Russian geophysicists.
Japan noted that tsunami warnings can last more than a day for distant events—such as the 2010 Chile quake—and authorities remained cautious despite weak wave activity so far.

Safety Measures & Expert Guidance

• Evacuate to higher ground, ideally above the fourth floor of buildings near coastline.
• Avoid coastal areas including beaches, marinas, river mouths, and estuaries until authorities declare all clear.
• Follow official sources such as tsunami.gov, JMA, and US National Weather Service for updates.
• Stay cautious of strong currents and unpredictable surges, especially in Pacific nations like the Philippines, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Peru.

External Resources

• USGS Earthquake & Tsunami Alerts
• Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) Tsunami Advisory Pages
• Pacific Tsunami Warning Center updates
• NOAA & National Weather Service guidance

The Russia Kamchatka quake tsunami threat stems from an unprecedented magnitude‑8.8, shallow earthquake near the Kuril‑Kamchatka Trench on July 30, 2025. Tsunami waves up to 5 metres devastated Russian coastal towns; Japan evacuated nearly 2 million people and secured nuclear sites; Hawaii and Alaska endured waves up to 5.5 ft, with broader Pacific alerts in effect. Forecasting remains challenging and aftershocks may persist. The situation highlights the urgent need for preparedness in seismically active zones.

New Delhi, July 24,2025: Indian citizens can now enter 59 countries without a prior visa, up from 57. The newly added visa-free destinations

What is India passport strength

“India passport strength” refers to the global mobility and diplomatic credibility of the Indian passport, measured by how many countries Indian citizens can visit without needing a visa in advance. The Henley Passport Index is the definitive ranking that assesses a passport’s power using IATA travel data.

5 Powerful Improvements in 2025

Biggest ever leap in ranking

In July 2025, India advanced 8 spots—from 85th to 77th place—the largest jump in its history.

Two new visa‑free destinations

Indian citizens can now enter 59 countries without a prior visa, up from 57. The newly added visa-free destinations are Sri Lanka and the Philippines.

. Record mobility score

This surge marks the highest mobility score ever recorded for Indian passport holders, flagging a trend toward improving diplomatic ties.

Regional leadership

India now ranks above neighboring nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh and even Sri Lanka in travel freedom.

Asian passport rise

While India’s strength grows, Asian nations—especially Singapore, Japan, and South Korea—continue to dominate global mobility.

Which countries now welcome Indians visa‑free

Indian passport strength is reflected in access to diverse nations across continents. The 59 eligible countries include:

• Asia: Malaysia, Indonesia, Maldives, Thailand (visa‑free); Myanmar, Macau (VOA); new additions: Sri Lanka, Philippines
• Africa: Senegal, Rwanda, Mauritius, Madagascar, Kenya, etc.
• Oceania: Fiji, Vanuatu, Micronesia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue
• Caribbean & Americas: Barbados, Grenada, Dominica, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & Grenadines

India remains far behind elite passports, but the positive trend is evident.

Why India passport strength matters

• Travel ease: Visa-free/VOA access saves time, hassle, and costs for tourists, business travelers, and students.
• Diplomatic reach: Better access reflects stronger international relations and reciprocity.
• Economic benefits: Easier mobility boosts tourism, international education, and diaspora opportunities.

Expert Opinions & Diplomatic Impacts

• Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Henley founder:
  “Access is earned—and must be maintained—through active and strategic diplomacy”.
• Reports highlight that visa policies also respond to income and mutual trust, so India’s middle‑income status and bilateral ties shape access.
• The focus now includes simplifying inbound visa processes to foster reciprocity.

Will India break into the top 50

To stay on this upward momentum and aim for top‑50 status, India could:

• Pursue bilateral visa waiver agreements with Schengen, North American, and East Asian regions.
• Streamline exit and re‑entry procedures to build reciprocal confidence.
• Enhance economic diplomacy, promoting people-to-people exchange and global collaboration.

External References

India passport strength has seen a historic leap in 2025—ranking 77th with visa-free access to 59 countries. While still far from top-tier passports, this trend symbolizes rising diplomatic influence and travel freedom for Indians. Continued collaboration, visa reforms, and strategic outreach could push India into elite ranks in upcoming years.