Author: Senjuti Bhattacharya

India and the United States are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a limited-scope trade agreement, commonly referred to as a “mini” trade deal, within the next 24 to 48 hours. According to sources cited by CNBC-TV18, negotiations have concluded, and the agreement may serve as a springboard for a more expansive bilateral trade partnership between the two nations. The upcoming deal is expected to carry an average tariff rate of about 10%, which could help streamline commerce and ease tariff pressures between the two sides. Following this agreement, both governments are anticipated to initiate broader discussions for a…

India and the United States are preparing to sign a renewed 10-year defense framework agreement later this year, according to US Senior Defense Spokesperson Colonel Chris Devine. This development follows a conversation between US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The Pentagon confirmed that the two sides aim to formalize the agreement when they meet in person later in 2025. During their phone discussion, Secretary Hegseth underscored the strategic importance of India as a key defense partner in South Asia. The conversation also included a review of significant progress made on defense objectives laid out…

The South Asian American Coalition has officially announced Dharmeshkumar Patel as its new Executive Director, a strategic appointment made by Sridhar Chillara, who currently serves as the Chairman of the Coalition for Jack 2025—the gubernatorial campaign for New Jersey candidate Jack Ciattarelli. Patel, a well-known figure in New Jersey’s community circles, brings a wealth of grassroots organizing experience to the table. His primary role will involve energizing voter mobilization and expanding community outreach, particularly among South Asian voters across the state. He is recognized for his close ties to local organizations and his longstanding commitment to civic engagement. The…

The eighth edition of Exercise Shakti, the flagship joint military training between India and France, came to a close this Thursday at Camp Larzac in La Cavalerie, France. The Indian Army, in an official statement, confirmed the successful completion of this bilateral engagement, aimed at enhancing tactical coordination, mutual trust, and interoperability between the two forces. The Indian contingent, composed of 90 soldiers primarily from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, trained alongside the French Army’s 13th Half-Brigade of the Foreign Legion (13e DBLE). Over the course of the drill, the troops engaged in a variety of intense mission-specific scenarios, tailored…

Intense Talks Continue to Reach Interim India-US Trade Deal Ahead of Deadline As the July 9 deadline for the pause on new US tariffs draws closer, Indian and American trade negotiators are engaged in intense last-minute discussions in Washington, DC, to finalise a long-pending interim trade agreement. Officials from both sides confirmed that efforts are underway to resolve the remaining differences, with the focus on reciprocal tariff cuts and improved market access in key sectors. India is seeking better access for labour-intensive exports such as garments, footwear, leather goods, spices, and seafood — sectors that generate significant employment. In return,…

Awami League Lays Out Statistics of ‘Brutality’ Gripping Yunus-led Bangladesh The Awami League has released a damning report on the state of human rights and law enforcement in Bangladesh, accusing the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of allowing “brutal anarchy” to take hold in the country. The party said that under this regime, safety, justice, and leadership have completely collapsed. According to the statistics compiled by the party, June alone saw 63 reported rapes, including 17 gang rapes. Among the survivors were seven women or girls with disabilities, 19 children, and 23 teenage girls. There were also 39 reported cases of…

In an impassioned speech at the United Nations, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strongly reaffirmed the country’s uncompromising position against terrorism, declaring, “Terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.” His remarks came during the opening of “The Human Cost of Terrorism,” an exhibition hosted by India’s Permanent Mission to the UN. Describing the display as both a “gallery of human courage” and a tribute to those silenced by acts of terror, Jaishankar said the event was meant to restore voices to victims whose lives were stolen. He emphasized, “This is a remembrance for the countless lives devastated by terrorism — a…

India has laid out an ambitious plan to achieve $1 billion in turmeric exports by 2030, as announced by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah. The declaration came on June 29 during the inauguration of the newly established National Headquarters of the Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana. This major step is expected to transform India’s turmeric economy through enhanced global market integration and farmer empowerment. Amit Shah emphasized that the Turmeric Board will be instrumental in improving the entire value chain—from packaging and branding to international marketing and export facilitation. The board is designed to ensure farmers…

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra. Using his official handle on the social media platform X, he expressed hope for widespread happiness, prosperity, and good health. “Warm wishes to all fellow citizens on the sacred occasion of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra. May this revered festival of faith and devotion bring joy, prosperity, good fortune, and excellent health to everyone. Jai Jagannath!” the Prime Minister posted. In addition to the Rath Yatra, PM Modi also acknowledged Ashadhi Bij, the Kutch New Year, celebrated on the second…

Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ summit in Qingdao, China, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made it clear that India will continue to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism. In a strong statement, Singh said that India’s counter-terror policies are no longer just words but are being implemented in action. “India has proven that terrorist epicenters can no longer feel safe. We have taken bold steps to defend our people and will continue doing so when necessary,” Singh emphasized. He called for unified efforts to counter the growing problem of radicalization, particularly among young people. Commending the…