Monday, June 22, 2026
Home Blog Page 6

Trump says deal with Iran ‘completed’, to be signed on June 19

Trump says ceasefire still holds after fighting between the US and Iran flares
US President Donald Trump (File pic)

New Delhi, June 15: In a much-awaited news, US President Donald Trump today said a peace deal between his country and Iran has been completed.

The agreement is to be signed in Switzerland on June 19.

“The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all.” Trump said a social media post.

“I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow,” Trump continued.

In another post, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened to allow the transit of commercial vessels on Friday after the agreement is signed.

Shortly after this announcement, Iranian media said the US has agreed to end all santions against the Persian nation besides a number of other terms.

Details of the Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the US, as per the Iranian media:

— Sanctions imposed by the United States against Iran will be lifted.

— A compensation fund of $300 billion will be established for Iran.

—  A portion of Iran’s frozen assets, amounting to $28 billion, will be released.

— Iran’s $24 billion frozen funds will be released.

— Iran’s nuclear facilities will remain untouched and there will be no transfer of enriched uranium

— Iran will manage the Strait of Hormuz and will collect fees at a later date.

– There will be a complete ceasefire in all regions, and Israeli troops will withdraw from southern Lebanon

The final deal would be discussed in the 60 days after both sides agree to the memorandum, the Iranian media added.

Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Iran’s frozen financial assets would be released once a 14-point memorandum of understanding is signed.

He also said lifting the US naval blockade was the first item in the document, while Iran’s nuclear programme had been moved to a second phase of talks.

At the same time, American media, citing some unnamed “senior US official and other White House sources”, dismissed Iranian media reports that Washington would release Iran’s frozen assets. (NVI)

Kashmiris from POJK hold huge protest in London amid atrocities by Pakistani forces

Kashmiris from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir staged huge protest against Pakistani oppression

London, June 14: Overseas Kashmiris, in huge numbers, staged powerful protests against the ongoing oppression by the Pakistani regime in occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir, amidst their worries about the fate of their relatives back home.

Raising slogans demanding liberation of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), tens of thousands of people, originally hailing from the region, took out a protest march through the streets of London.

Subsquently, they assembled outside the residence of British Prime Minister at Downing Street to highlight the atrocities being committed by the Pakistani military in POJK.

“Hum Kya Chahte? Azaadi (What do we want? Independence)”, was the prime slogan which resonated powerfully at the Downing Street.

They also called for intervention of the British government to make Pakistan end the oppression in the occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Speakers at the demonstration highlighted how Pakistani forces have been committing brutalities, shooting peaceful civilians dead, barging into houses and outraging the modesty of women.

They expressed their full support to the peaceful agitation launched in POJK under the banner of Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

Meanwhile, the Overseas Kashmiris expressed “deep worries” regarding the fate of their families and loved ones after reports that the Pakistani forces were targeting the residences of the diaspora people.

Also Read:

POJK: Pakistani forces kill 2 Kashmiris, injure 10 by firing during prayers

The Pakistani regime has also enforced an economic and food blockade by prohibiting supplies from outside and within POJK.

“We, the overseas Kashmiris, are deeply worried about our families and loved ones in ‘Azad Kashmir’. Communication with many of our relatives has become extremely difficult, and we are living in constant fear and uncertainty,” said a statement issued by them.

“We are receiving distressing reports that people are facing severe hardships,” it said.

“Many families are struggling to access basic necessities, and there are allegations of heavy security measures, including checkpoints, night-time searches of homes, damage to property, and intimidation of local residents. These reports have caused immense anxiety among Kashmiris living abroad,” the statement said.

They appealed to the international media to investigate and highlight the situation in POJK.

“Independent and impartial journalism is essential to ensure that the voices of ordinary people are heard and that any humanitarian concerns receive the attention they deserve,” the statement said.

“Please help bring international attention to the humanitarian concerns and the suffering of innocent civilians in Azad Kashmir,” the oveseas people from POJK pleaded. (NVI)

Rifleman Aurangzeb Remembered on 8th Death Anniversary in Poonch

By Shivam Bakshi

Jammu, June 14 (NVI): The Army on Sunday paid tribute to Shaurya Chakra awardee Rifleman Aurangzeb on his eighth death anniversary at his native village Salani in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district.

According to officials, personnel of the Romeo Force under the White Knight Corps commemorated the occasion in the presence of Aurangzeb’s family members, representatives of the civil administration and local residents.

A solemn ceremony was held to honour the soldier’s courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty. Army officials recalled his supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation and said his legacy continues to inspire generations of soldiers and citizens alike.

The gathering paid homage to the braveheart and reaffirmed a collective commitment towards peace, unity and national service.

Rifleman Aurangzeb was abducted and killed by terrorists in June 2018 while he was travelling home to celebrate Eid with his family. He was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his gallantry.(NVI)

POJK: Pakistani forces kill 2 Kashmiris, injure 10 by firing during prayers

A Kashmiri injured in firing by Pakistani forces being rushed to hospital

Rawalakot (Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir), June 14: In the latest case of barbarity, Pakistani military today killed at least 2 Kashmiri Muslims and injured more than 10 by firing at them during the morning prayers here in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).

The Pakistani regime has also imposed an economic and food blockade in the occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir by prohibiting supplies of essential items from outside and within the region.

These are part of a series of oppressive actions being undertaken by the Pakistani regime against the Kashmiris with an objective of crushing a mass movement against its illegal occupation and rule.

Early today, the Pakistani forces resorted to unprovoked firing on a gathering of Kashimiris at Eidgah ground during the Fajr Namaz (morning prayers).

It resulted in the killing of at least 2 persons and injuries to over 10, as per initial reports.

However, it failed to shake the resolve of tens of thousands of people gathered there and they continued their sit-in on the 6th day today.

Rather it fueled further outrage among the protesters who chanted slogans demanding freedom from Pakistan.

The Kashmiri protesters shouted slogans against the Pakistani military, saying “yeh to dehshat gardi hai, iske peeche vardi hai (those in military uniform are behind this terrorism).”

Meanwhile, the Pakistani regime has prohibited supplies of essential items like food, vegetables and even water within and from outside PoJK.

Locals have issued video messages, slamming the “barbaric regime” of Pakistan and made an appeal for help. (NVI)

Operation Sheruwali Enters 23rd Day in Rajouri Forests; Search Operations Continue

Shivam Bakshi

Rajouri, June 14 (NVI): Security forces on Sunday continued their massive search operation in the dense forests of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir as ‘Operation Sheruwali’ entered its 23rd consecutive day, officials said.

The multi-agency counter-terror operation is underway in the Dorimal-Gambhir Mughlan forest belt, where troops have intensified search and surveillance efforts to track down suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the rugged terrain.

Officials said the operation is being conducted in a challenging area marked by steep slopes, rocky mountains and thick vegetation, making movement and search activities difficult for the forces.

Security personnel have maintained a tight cordon in the area and are carrying out area domination exercises, surveillance and combing operations to prevent any terrorist movement or escape.

The operation, launched in late May, has become one of the longest ongoing anti-terror missions in the region.

On June 7, an Army soldier lost his life after accidentally slipping from a rocky slope while moving through the mountainous terrain during the operation. He sustained serious injuries in the fall and later succumbed despite being evacuated for medical treatment.

Earlier, on May 28, security forces had intensified the operation following an exchange of fire with suspected terrorists in the Dorimal forest area. Additional troops and logistical support were deployed to strengthen the cordon and prevent terrorist from escaping through the dense forest cover.

Officials said search operations are continuing and security forces remain on high alert in the area.(NVI)

3 Haryana Residents Killed, 2 Injured in Jammu Nagrota Road Mishap

Jalgaon

Shivam Bakshi

Jammu, June 14 (NVI): Three persons were killed and two others injured after a car collided with a bus in the Jagti-Karli area on the outskirts of Jammu Nagrota during the intervening night of June 13 and 14, officials said on Sunday.

The accident involved a car bearing registration number HR29BB2127 and a bus bearing registration number JK02AJ9933. Five occupants of the car sustained injuries and were shifted to Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital Jammu by police for treatment.

Officials said two of the injured were declared brought dead on arrival at the hospital, while another succumbed to injuries during treatment.

The deceased have been identified as Sikander Saifi, Shakti and Mohit Verma, all residents of Ballabhgarh in Haryana.

The injured were identified as Deepak Verma (25), son of Manoj Verma, a resident of Ballabhgarh, Haryana, and Kuldeep Sharma, son of Inderpal Sharma, a resident of Bahudutt.

Police have taken cognisance of the incident and further investigation is underway. More details are awaited, officials added.(NVI)

J&K Lt Governor terms ‘homecoming’ of displaced Kashmiri Pandits as ‘truest victory’

J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha at event of Kashmiri Pandit diaspora members

Srinagar, Jun 13 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today described “homecoming” of uprooted Kashmiri Pandits as the “truest victory” and urged members of the community across the globe to invest in the Union Territory by establishing industries, educational institutions and cultural centres.

He was addressing a gathering here of business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals from the Kashmiri Pandit diaspora.

He described the event as a “moment of transformation” and said it reflected growing confidence in the peace and stability of Jammu and Kashmir.

Referring to the dislocation of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley in the 1990s, Sinha said the community had endured “genocide, exile and struggle” but chose to rebuild its future through hard work and determination.

The entire community of Kashmiri Pandits was forced to leave the Valley, their ancestral homeland, because of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism during as they were targeted for their faith.

“Hardship never broke the spirit of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Suffering did not silence their ambition. Instead, they shaped their own destiny by building industries, founding institutions, driving innovation and earning respect across the world,” the Lt Governor said.

Sinha called upon members of the community to contribute to Jammu and Kashmir’s development by setting up industries and institutions that would preserve their heritage while creating opportunities for future generations.

He said discussions at the conclave on economic partnerships and institution-building could serve as a roadmap for cultural revival, economic empowerment and community restoration.

The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that the community would play a significant role in the country’s journey towards a developed India.

The conclave was attended by prominent members of the Kashmiri Pandit community from India and abroad, besides senior officials of the civil administration and police.(NVI)

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth Appointed Next Army Chief, To Take Charge on June 30

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth appointed as the next Chief of Indian Army

New Delhi, June 13 (NVI): Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, regarded highly for professional expertise, operational experience and contributions to military transformation, was today appointed as the next Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of India with effect from June 30, 2026.

Lt Gen Seth, currently the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, will succeed General Upendra Dwivedi, who is scheduled to retire from service on June 30 after completing his tenure.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Lt Gen Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986 and has served in a wide range of operational, command and strategic appointments during his nearly four-decade-long military career.

The General Officer has commanded formations at all levels, including an Armoured Regiment in the desert sector, an Armoured Brigade in the western theatre and a Counter-Insurgency Force in Jammu and Kashmir.

He also commanded the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, one of the Army’s key strike formations, and later served as General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area.

As an Army Commander, Lt Gen Seth headed the South Western Command and Southern Command, becoming one of the few officers to command two operational Army Commands.

He has also held several important appointments at Army Headquarters, particularly in strategic planning and capability development, where he played a significant role in force modernisation, long-term capability enhancement and future force structuring initiatives.

A graduate of the Higher Command Course and the National Defence College, Lt Gen Seth also attended the prestigious Command and Staff Course in Paris.

 

With his appointment, Lt Gen Seth will assume command of the Indian Army at a time when the force is focusing on modernisation, technology integration and enhanced operational preparedness. (NVI)

Five IAF personnel killed in plane crash in Assam

Site of crash of IAF transport plane in Jorhat in Assam

Guwahati, June 13:  In a tragic accident, 5 personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF), including a senior officer, were killed today after their AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while landing at the Jorhat Airbase in Assam.

The co-pilot survived the crash and is currently undergoing treatment.

In a statement, IAF said a Court of Inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the crash.

The deceased personnel were:

  • Squadron Leader Prashant Singh
  • Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar
  • Sergeant Jitendra Sharma
  • Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat
  • Agniveervayu Danish Alam

The IAF said it extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and stands firmly with them in this hour of grief.

According to reports, the aircraft caught fire after landing.

Firefighting teams were rushed to the spot immediately after the incident. (NVI)

Electricity bills in Delhi to increase

Power Ministry

New Delhi, June 13: Electricity bill in Delhi is going to increase if the consumption is more than 500 units as the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has allowed power distribution companies to recover a higher Power Purchase Adjustment Charge (PPAC).

It will mainly affect consumers who are not covered under the Delhi government’s electricity subsidy schemes.

Consumers receiving either full or 50 per cent subsidy will not face any additional burden, according to the government.

“There is a provision under the law to increase PPAC. Therefore, DERC has approved the increase. Fuel prices have risen because of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, and that has increased costs for power companies,” Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood said.

Till March this year, Delhi’s fuel and power purchase adjustment charge was imposed on a quarterly basis.

However, from the April billing cycle, DERC has shifted to a monthly review and recovery mechanism.

This is the first such monthly order issued by the regulator.

Under the new order, power distribution companies will be allowed to recover a larger share of the additional costs incurred while purchasing electricity.

According to Sood, the PPAC being recovered from consumers was around 14.5 per cent earlier and has now increased to 17.9 per cent, translating into an increase of about 3.4 percentage points.

Implications

The biggest impact is expected on consumers who are outside the subsidy framework and those with higher electricity consumption.

Officials said households receiving electricity subsidies from the Delhi government will continue to get the benefit because the subsidy is linked to units consumed rather than the bill amount.

As a result, consumers receiving full or 50 per cent subsidy are unlikely to see any impact from the latest PPAC revision.

However, households consuming more than 500 units of electricity a month could see higher bills depending on their usage and applicable surcharge.

Reason

There are three power distribution companies (Discoms) in Delhi — BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL), BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL) of Anil Ambani-led Reliance Power and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL).

All these privately-owned companies approached DERC, a nodal body responsible for overseeing power-related matters in the capital.

These companies sought relaxation from the existing 10 per cent cap on fuel and power purchase adjustment surcharge recovery.

According to the regulator’s order, the FPPAS for April stood at 31.5 per cent for BRPL, 35.26 per cent for BYPL and 16 per cent for TPDDL.

DERC, however, did not permit full recovery. Instead, it allowed BRPL to recover an additional 7.94 per cent surcharge and BYPL an additional 7.43 per cent surcharge. TPDDL was allowed to recover the full 16 per cent FPPAS.

As a result, the total surcharge permitted for recovery now stands at 17.94 per cent for BRPL, 17.43 per cent for BYPL and 16 per cent for TPDDL.

The regulator said the relaxation was intended to help power companies recover a reasonable portion of the increase in electricity purchase costs.

How Long?

The DERC has clarified that the relaxation will continue on a month-to-month basis until further orders.

The regulator has also allowed unrecovered surcharge amounts from previous months to be recovered gradually in future billing cycles, subject to the prescribed limits.

The decision has effectively introduced a new monthly review system for power purchase cost recovery in Delhi, making future electricity bills more closely linked to fluctuations in fuel and electricity procurement costs. (NVI)

1...567...1,643Page 6 of 1,643

MUST READ