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Odisha Startup BonV Aero Assists Army with Drone Tech in Sikkim Landslide Rescue

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In a significant breakthrough for disaster response technology, Odisha-based deep tech startup BonV Aero played a key role in aiding the Indian Army’s rescue efforts during the recent landslide in Lachen, Sikkim. The company deployed its advanced ground penetrating radar (GPR) drone system to locate subsurface anomalies without disturbing unstable terrain.

The drone, equipped with real-time imaging systems, GPR sensors, and AI-powered anomaly detection software, was able to scan the debris-covered zone from above. The innovation enabled the detection of two critical locations, at depths of 0.76 metres and 0.015 metres, which were later confirmed as sites containing human remains.

“This system’s ability to detect beneath unstable land and transmit real-time data allows responders to act without risking further casualties,” said BonV Aero CEO Satyabarata Satapathy. The drones provided precise coordinates that helped soldiers navigate the debris effectively, increasing the efficiency and safety of the mission.

The rescue operation followed a series of devastating landslides triggered by intense monsoon rains last month in the Lachen region, about 123 km from Gangtok. The disaster claimed the lives of three soldiers, while six others went missing.

Chief Technology Officer Abinash emphasized the potential impact of this innovation, stating, “With this technology, India can now approach landslide rescue and disaster response with smarter, faster, and safer methods.”

BonV Aero’s swift deployment of its GPR drone within 24 hours of the incident reflects growing collaboration between startups and national agencies in addressing complex challenges in hostile environments.

NDA, NA 2 and CDS 2 Exam 2025: Application Correction Window Now Open

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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has opened the application correction window for the NDA & NA II and CDS II Exam 2025 starting today, July 7. This one-time facility allows candidates to make necessary modifications to their submitted application forms on the official website at upsconline.nic.in.

The correction window provides an opportunity for candidates to rectify any errors in both the Common Application Form and the Examination Application Form. As per the official UPSC notification, the correction facility will remain open until July 9, 2025. No changes will be accepted after the deadline.

To make corrections, candidates should follow these steps:
– Visit the official UPSC website at upsconline.nic.in
– Log in using their credentials
– Open the Common Application Form
– Make the necessary corrections
– Review the information carefully and submit the updated form
– Download and print the confirmation page for future reference

The NDA/NA II and CDS II written examinations are scheduled to be held on September 14, 2025. Candidates are advised to make all required changes during the correction period to ensure their applications are error-free.

For more details and updates, candidates should visit the official UPSC website.

BRICS Summit Opens Without Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin

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The 17th BRICS Summit began in Brazil on Sunday with the notable absence of two of its most influential founding leaders—Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their absence has prompted fresh questions about the evolving priorities and cohesion within the expanded BRICS bloc.

For Chinese President Xi Jinping, this marks the first time since taking office in 2012 that he has skipped a BRICS summit. Citing scheduling conflicts, China has sent Premier Li Qiang to represent the country in Rio de Janeiro. Analysts suggest the absence may also reflect Beijing’s shifting focus amid pressing domestic challenges, including a slowing economy and intensifying trade tensions with the United States. Some observers view Xi’s decision as a missed opportunity for China to reinforce its role as a leader of the Global South and a counterweight to Western influence.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin is participating virtually, a decision shaped by the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant issued against him over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. As Brazil is a signatory to the Rome Statute, a physical appearance by Putin would have placed the host nation in a diplomatic bind. His virtual presence continues the precedent set during the previous summit in South Africa.

The absence of both Xi and Putin comes at a time when BRICS is undergoing significant transformation. Since its expansion in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia, the bloc has become more diverse but also more ideologically fragmented. Experts believe this broader membership has diluted the original vision of BRICS as a unified counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions.

Brazil, under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is steering this year’s summit away from contentious geopolitical issues. The focus has shifted toward global governance reforms, equitable trade practices, vaccine cooperation, and green energy transitions. Brazilian officials have expressed a desire to avoid polarising debates over the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, seeking instead to highlight pragmatic global cooperation.

As the summit progresses, the absence of two core leaders is being closely watched as a potential sign of BRICS’ shifting internal dynamics and its uncertain path ahead.

Tahawwur Rana Admits 26/11 Involvement, Says He Was Trusted by Pakistan Army

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In a significant breakthrough in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks investigation, Tahawwur Hussain Rana has reportedly admitted to being present in Mumbai during the 2008 carnage and confirmed his deep involvement in the plot. According to sources, Rana told the Mumbai Crime Branch during questioning in NIA custody that he was a trusted agent of the Pakistani Army and that his presence in the city was part of the terrorists’ overall plan.

Rana, currently lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail, was extradited to India from the United States earlier this year. During his interrogation, he revealed that both he and David Coleman Headley — another key conspirator — underwent multiple training sessions with Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan. He also described LeT as functioning like a spy network, according to sources.

He reportedly admitted that the idea to open an immigration office in Mumbai under his company was his own, and financial dealings were masked as business expenses. Rana said he conducted recces of potential targets including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and believed the attacks were carried out in coordination with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Sources also stated that Rana claimed he had previously been sent by the Pakistani military to Saudi Arabia during the Khaleej War, highlighting the long-standing trust the army placed in him.

Following these disclosures, Mumbai Police are preparing to take custody of Rana and proceed with his formal arrest. He faces multiple charges including conspiracy, murder, terrorism, and forgery. His judicial custody was extended last month until July 9.

Rana’s statements may provide crucial evidence in linking state-sponsored elements from Pakistan to the 26/11 attacks, which left 166 people dead during a 60-hour siege on iconic Mumbai landmarks including the Taj and Oberoi hotels, CST station, and Nariman House.

BRO Improved Pathway To Amarnath For Ease of Devotees: Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan

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The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has significantly enhanced infrastructure for the annual Amarnath Yatra by widening key pilgrimage tracks in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General of BRO, Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan, announced on Sunday that tracks on the two main routes — Chandanwari and Baltal — have been expanded from their original width of 3-4 feet to a safer 12 feet.

Speaking to ANI, Lt Gen Srinivasan expressed gratitude at being tasked with the project, calling it an honour to contribute to such a spiritually significant mission. “We are very fortunate and blessed as the BRO to be associated with projects involving religious destinations in the extreme parts of our northern borders,” he said.

He added that the BRO was entrusted with improving a total stretch of 45 kilometres and that work was executed using prudent technical methods to ensure that the geological conditions and eco-sensitivities of the region were preserved. “Considering the extreme religious significance of this location, extreme care has been taken to ensure that the ecological balance was not disturbed,” he noted.

In a major safety addition, the BRO has also installed handrails along 32 kilometres of the route to assist pilgrims navigating the challenging terrain.

Pilgrims have praised the improved arrangements and heightened security measures, especially on the Pahalgam route, stating that they feel safe and supported on their journey to the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, speaking on Saturday, noted that nearly 26,000 to 27,000 pilgrims have already undertaken the Yatra this year. He dismissed any concerns that the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam would dampen the spirit of the pilgrims. The high turnout, he said, reflects strong public confidence in the government’s security and logistical efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Trump Warns 10% Tariff on Nations Supporting ‘Anti-American’ BRICS Policies

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U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday declared that any country aligning itself with what he termed the “Anti-American policies” of the BRICS group would face an additional 10% tariff. The announcement was made through a post on Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social.

“Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump wrote.

The statement comes amid growing international interest in the BRICS bloc, originally formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining later. In 2024, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, indicating its rising geopolitical significance.

Trump did not specify what actions or policies would be classified as “anti-American” under this tariff regime. The vague language has prompted questions from economists and international observers, who note that further clarification will be crucial for global trade partners.

The move is seen by many as a signal of Washington’s increasingly hardline stance against BRICS’ growing influence and attempts to reshape global trade and political alignments.

Major Rohit Bachwala Commended by Army Chief for Heroic Medical Aid at Jhansi Railway Station

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In a remarkable act of selfless service, Major Rohit Bachwala of the Indian Army Medical Corps was commended by Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, for going beyond the call of duty during a critical emergency at Jhansi Railway Station.

Also Read: Meet Major Rohit Bachwala: AFMC Officer Who Helped Deliver a Baby at Jhansi Railway Station

On July 5, 2025, while proceeding on leave from Military Hospital Jhansi to his hometown Hyderabad, Major Rohit noticed a woman in visible distress near the lift area of the railway station. She had fallen from her wheelchair and was in advanced labour. Without hesitation, and with no clinical setup available, he stepped in to assist.

Using limited and improvised resources — a towel, a knife, and hair clips — Major Rohit conducted an emergency delivery on the platform itself. The situation became more critical when the newborn was found to be unresponsive at birth. Acting swiftly, he resuscitated the infant and proceeded to manage post-delivery complications faced by the mother, including issues related to placental delivery.

Despite the non-clinical environment and lack of equipment, Major Rohit was able to stabilize both the mother and the child before they were transferred to a government medical facility for further treatment.

His timely intervention, medical skill, and calmness under pressure drew praise from the highest levels of the Indian Army. The Army Chief personally commended Major Rohit, calling his actions a shining example of the values and dedication upheld by the Armed Forces.

Indian Army Women Officers Inspire Students at Lucknow Model UN

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In a compelling demonstration of leadership and empowerment, two senior Indian Army officers, Colonel Neha Bhatnagar and Colonel Rashmi Naarayan, participated in the Model United Nations (MUN) conference held at La Martiniere Girls’ College in Lucknow. The officers served as chief guests during the opening and closing ceremonies of the event, where they shared valuable insights on leadership, discipline, and the importance of holistic personal development.

Addressing the gathering of enthusiastic students, both officers emphasized the need for young minds to grow beyond academic excellence and develop resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. They highlighted how these traits are not only essential for military careers but also for success in any leadership role in today’s rapidly changing world.

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Their participation comes at a time when the Indian Army is witnessing a growing presence of women in key roles, following the landmark 2020 Supreme Court verdict that granted permanent commissions to women officers. Since 2023, the Indian Army has reported a 10 percent rise in the recruitment of female officers, reflecting a shift toward greater gender inclusivity in the armed forces.

Education experts and defence analysts believe such engagements between military leaders and students play a vital role in shaping progressive attitudes. A study by the Journal of Military Psychology noted that exposure to diverse leadership models, particularly in formative years, enhances long-term resilience and leadership potential in young individuals.

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The presence of Colonels Bhatnagar and Naarayan served not only as a motivational experience for students but also as a strong statement on the evolving role of women in the defence services. Their interaction is expected to leave a lasting impression on participants, many of whom expressed renewed interest in national service and public leadership.

Army Jawan Dies in Accidental Firing in J&K’s Rajouri

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n a deeply unfortunate incident, an Indian Army jawan lost his life due to accidental firing in the Dharamsal area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district. The deceased soldier has been identified as Naik Uppala Ravi Kumar, a native of Andhra Pradesh, who was serving with the 54 Rashtriya Rifles at the time of the incident.

According to official sources, the tragedy unfolded when the soldier’s service rifle discharged unintentionally while he was on duty. The bullet inflicted critical injuries, leaving little time for medical intervention. Fellow soldiers who were nearby rushed to his aid and immediately transported him to the nearest medical facility. However, despite prompt efforts by medical personnel, the injuries proved fatal and he was declared dead shortly after.

Police officials confirmed that the firing was accidental in nature and said that a case has been registered. An investigation has been initiated to determine the precise sequence of events and whether there were any lapses in weapon handling or safety protocols.

The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the unit and among the soldier’s colleagues. Senior officers have expressed their condolences and are extending support to the bereaved family. The Indian Army is expected to conduct a detailed inquiry in accordance with protocol to avoid such tragedies in the future.

Son of 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack Mastermind Slams Bilawal Bhutto Over Extradition Remark

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In a rare public outburst, Talha Saeed — son of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed — has lashed out at former Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for stating that Islamabad may not oppose the extradition of terror leaders Hafiz Saeed and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar to India.

Also Read: Bilawal Bhutto Says Pakistan Open to Extraditing ‘Individuals of Concern’ to India

Bilawal made the remark during an interview with Al Jazeera, where he suggested that as a part of a broader peace dialogue with India, Pakistan could consider handing over the two UN-designated terrorists as a confidence-building measure. “I am sure Pakistan would not be opposed to any of these things,” he said.

This sparked immediate backlash in Pakistan, especially from radical circles. Talha Saeed, defending his father, issued a statement condemning Bhutto’s words, calling them “against the state policy, national interest and sovereignty.” He added, “Bilawal Bhutto is either unaware of the ground realities or promoting the enemy’s narrative.”

Hafiz Saeed has been serving a sentence in Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail since 2019 in terror financing cases, while Masood Azhar — one of India’s most wanted terrorists — is believed by Pakistani officials to be in Afghanistan. India holds both responsible for some of the deadliest terror attacks on Indian soil, including 26/11, the Parliament attack (2001), the Pathankot airbase attack (2016), and Pulwama (2019).

Bilawal acknowledged in the interview that while Saeed is in jail, Pakistan has been unable to trace Azhar. “If India provides proof that he is on Pakistani soil, we will be more than happy to arrest him,” he added.

Indian officials have long accused Pakistan of sheltering these terrorists and using legal loopholes to shield them. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently reiterated that Pakistan must hand over Hafiz Saeed, Azhar, and others if it is serious about fighting terrorism.

Bilawal’s comments also reflect Pakistan’s discomfort with India’s new counter-terror approach following Operation Sindoor, during which India launched deep precision strikes against terror launch pads across the LoC. He termed this shift as a “new abnormal.”

For Indian viewers, the episode highlights the internal contradictions in Pakistan’s terror policy — where moderate political voices are often silenced by hardliners, and efforts to cooperate with India are painted as betrayal. Despite being proscribed by the UN and Pakistan’s own National Counter Terrorism Authority, figures like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar still enjoy protection or ambiguity in Pakistan’s legal system.

The ball, once again, is in Pakistan’s court — but with reactions like Talha Saeed’s, the road to justice for victims of terrorism remains obstructed.