Biden joins Modi warning to Pakistan on militants

Biden, Modi warn Pakistan on extremist crackdown; express concern over Myanmar situation.

Police charge India wrestling chief with sexual harassment

Indian police have charged Wrestling Federation president and BJP lawmaker, Brij Bhushan Singh, with sexual harassment and stalking following protests by top wrestlers. Despite one accusation being withdrawn, investigations continue, and promises of new WFI elections are in place.

India’s manufacturing woes: Production challenges faced by Pfizer and Apple

India’s manufacturing sector faces significant challenges as Pfizer and Apple encounter production issues. Pfizer suspended the sale of four antibiotics due to manufacturing deviations at a contractor plant. Apple struggles with weak infrastructure, logistics, and low yield in its manufacturing operations. India’s lack of robust infrastructure, shortage of skilled labor, complex regulations, and bureaucratic hurdles contribute to the difficulties faced by multinational companies. Despite attempts to attract foreign investment, many firms have opted to leave India.

India’s deadliest rail accident in over a decade: Two passenger trains collide in Odisha, at least 233 dead and 900 injured

A catastrophic collision between two passenger trains in Odisha, India, has resulted in at least 233 fatalities and 900 injuries, marking the country’s deadliest rail accident in over a decade. Amid conflicting accounts of the cause and increasing fears that the death toll may rise, rescue efforts are in full force with the priority being the rescue and medical aid for the injured.

India hosts G20 tourism meet in disputed Kashmir under heavy security

The G20 tourism meeting in disputed Kashmir faced condemnation from China and Pakistan. Security was tightened, roads were improved, and India portrayed “normalcy and peace returning” to the region. China, along with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, chose not to attend, citing opposition to holding meetings in disputed territories. Pakistan criticized India’s arrogance, while India accused Pakistan of supporting militants. The UN Special Rapporteur expressed concern about civil liberties, but India rejected the remarks. Security measures were heightened, leading to detentions and warnings against protests or trouble.

Papua New Guinea, US to sign security pact with eye on China

Papua New Guinea is set to sign a defense pact with the United States, as it hosts talks with the US Secretary of State and the Indian Prime Minister. The discussions will center around China’s growing influence in the region, with concerns about its attempts to entice small nations with diplomatic and financial incentives. The defense pact will grant US troops access to Papua New Guinea’s ports and airports, aiming to enhance security cooperation and stability in the region. This move highlights the increasing engagement of the United States and India in the Pacific to counter China’s presence.

Russia rejects rupee settlement, deeming it undesirable: A blow to Indian importers as the rupee’s worth is questioned

India and Russia have halted efforts to settle bilateral trade in rupees, as Moscow is reluctant to hold the currency. Russian officials have expressed discomfort with accumulating rupees and prefer to be paid in Chinese yuan or other currencies. This setback affects Indian importers who sought to purchase Russian resources in rupees. The two countries had explored trade settlement in local currencies but failed to formalize guidelines.

MSCI drops two Adani Group companies from India index

Global stock index compiler MSCI has removed Adani Total Gas and Adani Transmission from its India index due to their failure to meet market capitalization requirements. This comes after the Adani Group faced allegations of market manipulation, causing a significant decline in share prices. Adani Enterprises is set to consider raising funds through share sales or other securities, while the Indian Supreme Court is considering an extension of the probe into the manipulation allegations. The Adani Group’s shares have partially recovered but remain significantly below pre-allegation levels. Gautam Adani’s ranking on Forbes’ billionaires list has also dropped.

Farmers break down barricades to join protesting Indian wrestlers

Indian farmers, supported by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) protesting agricultural reform bills, joined wrestlers in New Delhi to demand the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. The involvement of farmers increases the likelihood of a prolonged protest, with nationwide demonstrations planned. Athletes, including Olympic medalists, have voiced their support and called for a speedy investigation to ensure justice is served. Delhi police have registered complaints against Singh, who denies the allegations.

Three dead after MiG jet crashes in India

A Russian-made MiG-21 military aircraft crashed into a house in India, resulting in three deaths. The Indian Air Force has experienced several crashes in recent years, often involving ageing planes supplied by the former Soviet Union. India is investing in modernizing its military and diversifying its defence industry.