Japan Official Says 500-km Bullet Train Track Could Take Over 10 Years
Masafumi Shukuri, chairman of the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute and International High-Speed Rail Association, said Japan could not build a 500-km bullet train track within 10 years. He cited Japan's 62 years of experience and COVID-19 disruptions, while noting the project had been progressing despite delays.
Dentist Recalls Indian Pilot’s Plea During Dubai Plane Attack
Dentist Shota Musaev recalled how Indian pilot Smit Machchhar sought help after being stabbed during an attack aboard a flydubai plane. Musaev said Machchhar pleaded, “Help me, please. I don’t want to die here.” Despite his injuries, the pilot helped save lives. Musaev said he hopes to meet him and thank him.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Named Next Air Chief
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the 29th Chief of Air Staff, succeeding Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who retires on October 31. Dixit, a fighter pilot, has participated in three operations: Safed Sagar during the Kargil War, Rakshak in Jammu and Kashmir, and Operation Sindoor. His appointment marks a leadership transition.
Earthquake Tremors Felt Across Delhi-NCR, Uttarakhand
Earthquake tremors were felt across Delhi-NCR, Uttarakhand and parts of northern India on Tuesday night, according to ANI and PTI. The magnitude was not immediately known. Residents in several areas reportedly stepped outside their homes after feeling the tremors. Authorities were monitoring the situation, while further details about the earthquake remained awaited from officials.
SC: Election Commissioners Enjoy Broader Legal Immunity Than Judges
The Supreme Court observed that the legal protection available to the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners under the 2023 law may exceed that enjoyed by court judges. The remarks came during hearings on petitions challenging alleged unilateral decisions by CEC Gyanesh Kumar concerning the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
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DRDO’s HAPS Breakthrough: Platform Tested at 21 Km Altitude
DRDO has successfully flight-tested an indigenous High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS), carrying an IMU, GPS receiver, cameras and an altimeter. The platform climbed to 21 km above mean sea level and remained airborne for over 30 minutes. The trial demonstrated sustained high-altitude operation and generated performance data to assess capabilities and support further development of this technology and future applications globally.
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India-US Trade Talks Hit ‘Plateau’ as Key Differences Persist
India-US trade negotiations have reached a “plateau,” Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, citing differences over tariffs, concessions and trade imbalances. She noted Washington wants to reduce its deficit with India and address perceived losses. Sitharaman said negotiations remain ongoing but warned that reaching an agreement could prove difficult if both sides maintain their current positions on key issues.
Israel Could Have Shot Down Flydubai Plane Had Captain Not Opened Cockpit
Israel could have shot down a Flydubai aircraft carrying more than 170 people if the Indian captain had not opened the cockpit after being attacked by his co-pilot. The aircraft was allegedly involved in a terror attack. However, it never entered Israeli airspace, making any potential interception hypothetical.
Delhi Police Officer Accused of Sexual Harassment Promoted Amid Controversy
Delhi Police ACP Vivek Bhagat, accused by three women journalists of sexually harassing them during an anti-CEC protest at Jantar Mantar, has been promoted to Additional DCP. The journalists alleged inappropriate conduct and physical contact. Police said the complaints were forwarded to the Crime Branch for an impartial investigation ongoing.
