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.

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.

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.

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.