Nivedita

From July 1, 2025, Indian Railways will implement a modest fare hike and enforce Aadhaar-based verification for Tatkal bookings. While non-AC fares will rise by 1 paise/km and AC fares by 2 paise/km, suburban and short-distance second-class journeys remain unaffected. Additionally, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book Tatkal tickets, with OTP verification starting July 15. Agents are barred from booking during the first 30 minutes of the Tatkal window.

The Supreme Court's decision to stay social media activist Wajahat Khan’s arrest in multiple FIRs despite acknowledging his hate-filled posts has triggered a debate on judicial consistency, especially when compared to the earlier arrest of influencer-law student Sharmistha Panoli. Both were accused of similar offences, yet while Panoli was arrested without pre-arrest relief or Supreme Court intervention, Khan received sweeping protection. The contrasting treatment has raised serious questions about double standards in the Indian judiciary.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a “complete and total ceasefire” between Israel and Iran, marking the end of a 12-day conflict. However, tensions remain as missile sirens continue to sound across Israel, and both sides have traded accusations of ceasefire violations. While Israel claims to have achieved all objectives under Operation Rising Lion, Iran issued conflicting statements about the agreement, raising questions about the ceasefire’s stability.

At least five passengers and two crew members fell ill mid-air on Air India flight AI-130 from London to Mumbai, with symptoms pointing to possible food poisoning. The flight landed safely in Mumbai, where medical teams attended to those affected. While the exact cause is under investigation, Air India has ruled out cabin depressurization and confirmed that the regulator has been notified.

Asia is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with 2024 marking one of the hottest years on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The region faced prolonged heatwaves, accelerated glacier melt, and rising sea levels, increasing risks for millions. Experts warn that urgent climate action is critical as vulnerable communities bear the brunt of escalating environmental threats.