World32 min ago
Delhi Customs Seize Over 6 Kg of Marijuana, Arrest Three
Customs officials at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport have seized 6.37 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana in separate incidents, leading to the arrest of three passengers. The drugs were discovered during routine checks of baggage and personal belongings. Hydroponic weed is a high-potency cannabis grown without soil, often associated with illegal smuggling operations. The seized marijuana has an estimated street value of several lakh rupees, though official figures have not been released. The three individuals, whose identities have not been disclosed, have been taken into custody and are facing charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. This comes as part of ongoing efforts by Indian customs to curb drug trafficking through airports. In recent months, authorities have intensified screening and surveillance, resulting in multiple seizures. The department encourages travelers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and intended destination of the drugs.
NDTV
World33 min ago
India's BrahMos Missile Reaches 25-Year Milestone with Advanced Upgrades
The BrahMos missile, a key weapon in India's arsenal, recently celebrated 25 years of service. Developed with Russian help, this supersonic missile played a critical role in Operation Sindoor, where it successfully neutralized Pakistani air bases. Its speed and precision allow it to bypass modern air defense systems effectively.
Currently, the BrahMos is used by all three branches of the Indian military—army, navy, and air force. This broad deployment strengthens India's strategic capabilities. The missile is also gaining attention in global markets, with several countries showing interest due to its effectiveness against ships and as a defensive platform.
Continuous research and development ensure the BrahMos remains at the cutting edge of missile technology. India is working on faster and more versatile versions, including air-launched and submarine-launched variants. These upgrades will keep the missile relevant for decades to come.
The success of BrahMos highlights India's growing expertise in defense manufacturing. It also strengthens India's position as a key player in global military technology. As the missile enters its next quarter-century, it will likely continue to be a cornerstone of India's defense strategy.
Times of India
World33 min ago
The Forgotten Indian Princess Raised in Queen Victoria's Court
Princess Victoria Gowramma, the daughter of the last Raja of Kodagu, is a little-known figure in history. She was born in India but raised in Britain under the care of Queen Victoria, who became her godmother. The Raja of Kodagu was deposed by the British East India Company in 1834, and the royal family was sent to live in England. There, the young princess was baptized and given the name Victoria after the queen. She grew up in Buckingham Palace, learning English customs and receiving a royal education. As she grew older, she married Colonel John Campbell, a British officer, and had a daughter. However, despite her royal lineage, she faced prejudice because of her Indian appearance. British society at the time was not accepting of mixed-race marriages. Princess Gowramma struggled with her identity and health. She contracted tuberculosis, a common disease in that era, and died at a young age. Her story, once known in Victorian circles, slowly faded from public memory. Today, historians are rediscovering her life as an example of the complex relationships between colonial powers and Indian royalty. Her tale is a reminder of the cultural exchanges and personal tragedies that occurred during British rule in India.
Times of India
World1 hr ago
Flash Floods in Arunachal Pradesh Destroy Church, Damage Homes and Bridges
Heavy monsoon rains triggered flash floods in the Kurung Kumey district of Arunachal Pradesh, causing significant damage to property. The flooding occurred in the Parsi Parlo area, where a church was completely destroyed and several houses were damaged. Bridges in the region were also affected, disrupting local transportation.
Arunachal Pradesh, a state in northeastern India, experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. The state's hilly terrain often makes it prone to landslides and flash floods during this period.
Local authorities have assessed the damage and are working to provide relief to affected residents. The exact number of displaced people or the full extent of property loss has not yet been confirmed. No casualties have been reported so far.
The monsoon season is crucial for India's agriculture but also brings risks such as floods and landslides. In recent years, extreme weather events have become more frequent, highlighting the need for better disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
NDTV
World1 hr ago
Delhi Police Constable Shoots Wife During Argument, She Dies at Hospital
A Delhi Police constable allegedly shot his wife on a road in the national capital after a heated argument, leaving her critically injured. The woman, identified as Priyanka, was rushed to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital in East Delhi, where she succumbed to her injuries during treatment. The incident occurred after the couple had a dispute, following which the constable opened fire on his wife and fled the scene, leaving her to die. Police have launched a search operation to apprehend the accused officer. The motive behind the argument is not yet clear, and investigations are ongoing. This tragic case highlights the issue of domestic violence within law enforcement families. The Delhi Police has faced scrutiny over the conduct of its personnel in recent years. The constable's identity has not been officially released, but he is believed to be posted at a local police station. The victim's family has demanded strict action against the accused. This incident occurred in a residential area, shocking local residents. Authorities are treating it as a case of attempted murder leading to death. The constable could face charges under the Indian Penal Code for murder and related offenses. The case has drawn attention to the mental health and stress faced by police personnel.
NDTV
World1 hr ago
US and Iran Exchange Fresh Strikes as Ceasefire Ends
The United States has launched a third major wave of strikes against Iran in as many days, according to reports. The attacks occurred between July 12 and July 13, just hours after President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire no longer in effect. These are among the largest US air strikes since the ceasefire was originally announced. In response, Iran said it has begun its retaliatory operations, targeting US military bases in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The escalation marks a sharp turn in tensions between the two countries, which had seen a brief pause in hostilities. No further details on casualties or damage have been confirmed. The renewed fighting raises concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East. Both sides have traded accusations over who violated the ceasefire first. Diplomatic efforts to end the war now appear to be on hold. The international community has called for restraint, but strikes continue. This latest exchange suggests that talks to end the conflict have stalled, with no clear path to de-escalation in sight. Analysts warn that further military action could draw in other regional powers. The situation remains fluid, with both the US and Iran signaling they are prepared for continued confrontation.
France 24