The Hindu National
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TVK Government drawing criticism well before six months, says Stalin
According to former T.N. Chief Minister Stalin, the governmentโs functioning had already drawn criticism from various quarters
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According to former T.N. Chief Minister Stalin, the governmentโs functioning had already drawn criticism from various quarters
According to the family, Adarsh had been undergoing treatment for around 15 days
According to the IMD's monsoon tracking map, the monsoon is expected to enter Delhi and the National Capital Region sometime between June 25 and June 30.
According to information shared with them, he had been assigned a delivery to a deserted location which later appeared to have been a setup
According to the lawyer, the anticipatory bail plea is expected to be filed on Monday.
Indiaโs total fertility rate has declined, according to the government report. Notably, the national TFR has moved below the replacement benchmark of 2.1.
The Indian stock market ended last week in the red, with analysts flagging multiple factors that could keep pressure on Sensex and Nifty when trading resumes on Monday.On Friday, the Sensex closed 117 points lower at 74,243, while the Nifty 50 declined 50 points to settle at 23,367. Among the top laggards on the Sensex were Trent, TCS, Tata Steel, NTPC, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Reliance Industries, with losses of 1-2%.Here are five key factors likely to drive the stock market in the week ahead.1) Weak global cuesWall Street ended sharply lower on Friday, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq plunging more than 4% to log its steepest single-day decline since April 2025, after a stronger-than-expected US jobs report fuelled concerns that the Federal Reserve may keep interest rates higher for longer.The Nasdaq Composite tumbled 4.2%, dragged down by a more than 6% slide in Nvidia and an almost 8% drop in Broadcom. Broadcomโs weaker-than-expected guidance heightened concerns that AI-driven demand may not expand as rapidly as markets had anticipated. The Dow Jones fell 1.4%, while the S&P 500 dropped nearly 3%.European markets closed mixed, while Asian equities ended broadly lower. Japanโs Nikkei 225 and Hong Kongโs Hang Seng declined more than 1%, while South Koreaโs Kospi plunged nearly 6%. Chinaโs Shanghai Composite also ended about 1% lower.Also read: Why did Nasdaq plunge 4% to log worst day in over a year2) RBI policy impactReserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra on Friday announced that the central bankโs Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, as it assessed the impact of rising energy prices and supply disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict. The RBI also increased the investment limit for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) in equity instruments.Indian equity markets are likely to remain range-bound next week amid a mix of domestic and global triggers, according to Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research, Wealth Management, at Motilal Oswal Financial Services.โWhile the Reserve Bank of Indiaโs measures to attract foreign capital and the governmentโs tax relief for foreign investors in government securities could support sentiment, we expect market movement to be driven largely by bottom-up stock picking and sector-specific action in the near term,โ he said.Khemka noted that the central bank raised its FY27 inflation forecast to 5.1% and lowered its FY27 GDP growth projection to 6.6%, reinforcing concerns over energy prices, geopolitical tensions in West Asia and weather-related uncertainties.โIf inflationary pressures remain elevated and external risks persist, the possibility of a future monetary tightening cycle could increase, keeping investors cautious. Going forward, investors will closely track energy prices, developments in the West Asia conflict, monsoon progress, FII flows and the impact of RBIโs policy measures for further market direction,โ he added.3) FII selling continuesForeign Institutional Investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in the Indian market during the first week of June, offloading shares worth Rs 31,120 crore, according to Pabitro Mukherjee, Deputy Vice President โ Research at Bajaj Broking. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs), meanwhile, continued to provide support as net buyers.โInvestor sentiment remained subdued amid persistent geopolitical tensions, which kept crude oil prices elevated. Heightened global uncertainty, coupled with prevailing macroeconomic challenges, led to cautious market participation. Going forward, institutional flows are likely to remain highly sensitive to developments in US-Iran relations and movements in oil prices,โ he said.4) Iran-US tensions US forces struck Iranian coastal radar sites on Saturday after intercepting drones launched by Iran toward the Strait of Hormuz, the US military said. Reuters, citing a US official, reported that the military believes the four Iranian drones were targeting regional maritime traffic. US Central Command said on X that it subsequently struck Iranโs surveillance sites in Goruk and Qeshm Island, both located along the Strait of Hormuz.Meanwhile, Iranโs Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain in retaliation for the strikes and fired on four tankers attempting to cross the strait without its permission. The developments renewed concerns over escalating tensions in the oil-rich Middle East.Also read: GIFT Nifty tumbles 1.5% as US stock market plunges. Will Dalal Street crash on Monday?5) Bond yields Rising inflation concerns pushed US Treasury yields higher. The yield on the 2-year Treasury note, which is highly sensitive to expectations around Federal Reserve policy, climbed to a 15-month high. Elevated interest rates typically make bonds more attractive relative to equities, weighing on stock market sentiment.Technical view on NiftyThe benchmark Nifty index ended lower for the second consecutive week, reflecting the cautious undertone prevailing in the market, said Sudeep Shah, Head of Technical and Derivatives Research at SBI Securities.According to Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, Nifty 50 has been moving within a defined range as markets digest the RBIโs policy announcement. He noted that sentiment remains weak, with the index continuing to trade below key moving averages. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) also remains subdued, indicating a lack of positive momentum.โIn the near term, the index is likely to consolidate within the 23,300โ23,500 range. A decisive breakout above 23,500 could trigger an upmove towards 25,700 and beyond, while a break below the 23,300 support level may result in a sharper correction,โ he said.(With inputs from agencies)(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
A wave of optimism over South Korean stocks is giving way to growing caution, as some investors hedge positions and pare back crowded trades on concerns that the rally has run too hot, too fast.Hedge fund Golden Horse Fund Management has trimmed exposure and added derivative protection, while M&G Investments has cut memory and foundry holdings to broaden out down the AI supply chain. A Bloomberg Intelligence analysis of options on the iShares MSCI South Korea ETF shows investors seeking protection against a decline. The fund tumbled 14% Friday in the US.The moves highlight the challenge facing global money managers. While investors remain upbeat about Samsung Electronics Co. and SK Hynix Inc., the two chip giants that powered Kospiโs more than 90% rise this year, many are becoming pickier about where to put new money and keeping cash ready for opportunities elsewhere.Fridayโs selloff in US tech stocks, driven by fears of higher interest rates, shows how quickly popular trades can unwind once sentiment shifts. That risk could spillover into Korea once local markets open.โWeโve been trimming gross exposure at the margin and layering derivative protection over the last few weeks,โ said Yi Ling Ong, managing partner at Golden Horse Fund. Several large IPOs, including a SpaceX listing this month, could lead to rotation as funds raise cash to participate, making it โprudent to hold some dry powder,โ she said.131561937Over the past year, Korean stocks captured global attention as a combination of the AI boom and the governmentโs successful corporate reform propelled the index to new highs. Strong earnings potential continues to underpin bullish sentiment, but the extended rally has led to crowding in a few major players, leaving the market vulnerable to abrupt reversals. The benchmark tumbled 7% at one point on Friday.The caution is showing up in the derivatives market.โThe debate isnโt whether the Kospi story remains attractive โ itโs how to stay invested without giving back a portion of the gains,โ said Tanvir Sandhu, global chief derivatives strategist at Bloomberg Intelligence. Options activity in the EWY ETF suggests investors are becoming more cautious, with demand shifting from upside exposure to downside protection, he said.Some investors are looking for opportunities beyond Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, whose meteoric rise propelled them into the $1 trillion valuation club and helped Korea briefly overtake India as the worldโs sixth-largest stock market.โThe alpha lies lower down the value chain โ in the picks-and-shovels of the picks-and-shovels,โ said Vikas Pershad, portfolio manager at M&G, referring to companies that benefit from spending on AI infrastructure without being at the heart of the trade.Not Bearish To be sure, the rotation doesnโt signal investors turning bearish on Korea. Valuations remain cheaper than in rival tech hub Taiwan and investors say the market still offers one of the strongest AI-linked stories in global equities. At 8.6 times forward earnings, the Kospi trades below its five-year average of 10 times and is much cheaper than Taiwanโs benchmark, which trades at about 20 times, data compiled by Bloomberg show.Earnings upgrade cycle has also started to broaden. Excluding Samsung and SK Hynix, the rest of the Kospi is now expected to deliver more than 50% profit growth this year, up from just 20% in January, according to Golden Horse Fund. 131561965โThe speed of the rally has been vertiginous but in this type of market I would rather let the rally continue,โ said Rajeev De Mello, global macro portfolio manager at Gama Asset Management SA. โExiting now will make it very difficult to re-invest later if the market doesnโt correct.โStill, foreign outflows have become a concern. Global funds have pulled a record $76 billion this year, selling in every session over the past month. While part of the retreat is due to technical limits on single-stock holding, the selling has been absorbed by more fickle retail investors โ a dynamic that may heighten volatility.At the same time, some investors are growing wary of rising retail leverage. The concern is that popularity of leveraged ETFs and the planned weekly single-stock options could amplify swings in an already-volatile market. While the products are โreally interestingโ and show retail participation is growing, they also leave the market โin somewhat of a precarious position in case of a reversal,โ Stephane Martin, head of derivatives institutional sales for Asia at Optiver, said at a panel discussion at Bloombergโs Volatility Forum last week. (Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
In a heartbreaking incident in Hebron, a Palestinian infant lost his life after Israeli soldiers opened fire on his family's vehicle. The father recounted how they had paused and raised their hands in surrender moments before the shots erupted. According to the IDF, the troops perceived the car as a potential threat due to its speed.
The CBI has conducted searches at six locations in Chandigarh, Panchkula and Delhi-NCR in connection with an alleged Rs 661 crore fraud involving the siphoning of government funds from departments of the Haryana government and the Chandigarh administration, officials said on Sunday. The searches were carried out on Friday at premises linked to senior Haryana cadre public servants and Noida-based Vipam Consultancy Pvt Ltd and its director as part of an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of funds parked with IDFC First Bank and AU Finance Bank, an official statement said.Also read: IDFC First Bank fraud was isolated case involving collusion: KPMG According to the agency, the fraud affected eight departments of the Haryana government and two departments of the Union Territory of Chandigarh - Municipal Corporation Chandigarh and Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science and Technology Promotion Society (CREST)."During investigation evidences have surfaced suggesting that the public servants had colluded with bank officials and had facilitated in opening of accounts, transfer of funds and subsequent diversion thereof," the statement said. The agency alleged that the public servants received undue advantages for facilitating the transactions and failing to act against the irregularities. The investigating agency also alleged that Vipam Consultancy Pvt Ltd received proceeds of crime in its bank account, which were later transferred to the personal account of its director. "Incriminating documents, digital devices, property documents and other relevant material were seized during the search operations," the agency said. The probe stems from one case taken over from the Haryana State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau and two cases originally registered by the Economic Offences Wing police station in Chandigarh.Also read: CBI files first chargesheet in Haryana Rs 504 crore fund diversion caseThe cases relate to alleged criminal conspiracy, misappropriation of government funds and related offences committed in connivance with bank officials and public servants, the agency said.The CBI said it has already filed its first chargesheet before a special court in Panchkula detailing the alleged role of public servants from the Haryana Power Generation Corporation Ltd and Haryana School Shiksha Pariyojna Parishad.The chargesheet also outlined the alleged modus operandi used to siphon off government funds parked with the IDFC First Bank and AU Finance Bank, it said. The investigation is continuing and additional chargesheets will be filed against other accused found involved in the case, it added.
Mumbai: Beneath a busy flyover in India's financial capital Mumbai, a row of pastel-coloured shipping containers houses an unlikely school serving some of the city's most marginalised children.Despite laws guaranteeing free schooling for children aged six to 14, poverty and migration continue to keep many out of classrooms, particularly in sprawling cities like Mumbai where many families survive through low-paying informal work.Crippling urban poverty also means young children selling knick-knacks on streets are still a fairly common sight at crowded traffic intersections in big Indian cities.But the non-profit that runs the free school is determined to educate its underprivileged cohort, many of whom come from homeless families that barely eke out a living.Wedged between gleaming skyscrapers and busy roads, the "Signal Shala", or traffic signal school, caters to several dozen children who have been left out of the formal education system, according to Bhatu Sawant, founder of the initiative."These children can't go to (a regular) school. So (I thought) let's do this. Let's bring the school to them," Sawant, 45, told AFP.Also read | Major change in buyer behaviour as e-scooters race deeper into BharatIndia runs one of the world's largest public school systems, but government data for 2024-25 still identified nearly 1.2 million children as "out of school", a catch-all categorisation that covers both those who have never been to school or dropped out.Free mealsFor Sawant, India's government-run schools are simply "not flexible enough for these children", while private ones charging exorbitant fees are out of the question.The signal school operates from repurposed air-conditioned containers placed on a narrow strip of land beneath a flyover, where classes and play unfold amid the constant rumble of traffic overhead.Its approach is tailored to the realities of street life.Every morning, the school bus drives through the cramped lanes of Mumbai's slums, picking up students -- a lifeline for parents who can't afford transportation.When the children file in, the first order of business is a shower, as many have no easy access to bathing facilities.Lockers are provided for books and uniforms that otherwise cannot be kept safe or clean while living in slums or on the streets.Three meals are provided free, with school hours longer than normal.Also read | Indian tourists go viral for all wrong reasons. Here's how not to become the next horror storyClasses are split by ability rather than age, with teachers adapting lessons for children who may never have held a pencil before.Older students are also taught basic skills like sitting still, speaking clearly and staying focused.The challenges are particularly acute when it comes to kids from the semi-nomadic Pardhi community, who often do not speak the local language."When the children came here, they didn't know what the days of the week were, what the 12 months were or what the seasons were," said teacher Tejasvi Borade, as the container walls rumbled from the steady stream of cars passing above.Robotics and AIFor the students, the school serves as a sanctuary from the harshness of the real world."I feel very happy seeing the school bus," said 12-year-old Pooja Pawar, whose parents take on odd jobs at construction sites."The school clothes feel nice. The breakfast is good... In school, we make cake... and dance."For others, it represents an opportunity long denied.Balaji Laxman, who once sold tissues at traffic lights to earn a few hundred rupees -- the equivalent of several US dollars -- a day, said the classrooms represent a chance to imagine a different future."I want to become a doctor," Laxman, 12, said with a shy smile.While the school steers many children towards vocational pathways, Sawant said the broader ambition is to ensure they are not left behind in a rapidly changing world."We have to prepare them for the 21st century," said Sawant, who has set up two similar schools on the outskirts of Mumbai which have robotics labs among other facilities."They should know robotics, AI, computers, 3D printing," said the educator who relies on private and corporate donations for funding, with the government helping with the infrastructure."Everything that elite class children are doing well in, they should know all of that."
Domestic cooking gas LPG prices have been increased by Rs 29 per 14.2-kg cylinder, according to PTI, citing sources. The price of a 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder in Delhi has risen from Rs 913 to Rs 942 with effect from June 7.The latest revision comes amid sustained volatility in international energy markets and follows a series of fuel price increases announced in recent weeks.LPG price todayMetroCurrent Price (Rs)New Price (Rs)Delhi913.00942.00Kolkata939.00968.00Mumbai912.50941.50Chennai928.50957.50LPG cylinder price rises to Rs 942 in DelhiThe increase takes the retail price of a standard 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder in Delhi to Rs 942.As per the PTI report, industry sources said the revision was necessary as oil marketing companies continue to incur substantial losses on the sale of subsidised domestic cooking gas.The hike follows an earlier increase of Rs 60 per cylinder announced on March 7 after tensions and conflict in West Asia disrupted global energy supplies and pushed up international fuel prices.Why has the LPG price been increased?According to industry sources, the previous increase only partially compensated oil companies for the losses they were incurring on domestic LPG sales.Before the latest revision, state-run fuel retailers were estimated to be losing around Rs 703 on every domestic LPG cylinder sold.Global crude oil and fuel prices have remained elevated in recent months, increasing the financial burden on oil marketing companies.The latest increase is aimed at reducing a portion of those losses, although companies are reportedly still selling LPG below cost.Fuel price hikes extend beyond LPGThe LPG price revision comes as part of a broader trend of rising fuel prices across the country.Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by a cumulative Rs 7.50 per litre since mid-May, while compressed natural gas (CNG) rates have risen by around Rs 6 per kilogram.The increases reflect the impact of higher international energy prices on India's fuel market.Oil companies continue to face lossesDespite the recent price revisions, industry sources said state-owned oil marketing companies continue to absorb significant losses.Petrol is reportedly being sold at a loss of approximately Rs 11 per litre, while diesel sales are resulting in losses of around Rs 33.6 per litre.These figures highlight the pressure on fuel retailers as they attempt to balance commercial viability with concerns over inflation and consumer affordability.Government limits full pass-through of global energy costsThe government has so far avoided passing on the entire increase in global energy prices to consumers.Instead, a portion of the burden has been absorbed by state-owned fuel retailers to shield households and businesses from a sharper rise in fuel costs.However, with global crude oil prices and fuel markets continuing to fluctuate, industry observers say further adjustments may be required if international prices remain elevated for an extended period.Impact of LPG price hike on householdsThe latest increase is likely to affect household budgets, particularly for families that rely heavily on LPG for daily cooking needs.Cooking gas remains an essential household fuel across urban and rural India, and any rise in cylinder prices tends to have a direct impact on monthly expenses.Consumers will now pay Rs 942 for a 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder in Delhi, while prices in other cities may vary depending on local taxes and transportation costs.Global energy market remains key factorGeopolitical tensions, crude oil supply disruptions and fluctuations in global demand continue to influence energy prices worldwide.As a result, domestic fuel prices are expected to remain closely linked to international market trends in the coming months.Inputs from PTI
Over 700 internally displaced persons have died in Manipur since May 2023, according to state home department data revealed through an RTI request. The information also indicates that over 43,000 people remain in relief camps and pre-fabricated housing, with significant health challenges reported among the displaced population.
Delhi Police on Saturday issued a clarification on X, dismissing claims circulating on social media that an FIR had been registered against protesters who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) demonstration at Jantar Mantar.In its post, Delhi Police stated: "Certain social media posts and news reports are claiming that Delhi Police has registered an FIR against the protesters at Jantar Mantar."The police further clarified: "It is clarified that no such FIR has been registered."Urging people not to spread misinformation, the post added: "Citizens are advised not to believe or circulate unverified information. Please rely only on official updates issued by Delhi Police."The clarification came amid widespread discussion online following the protest organised by the youth-led movement.โ DelhiPolice (@DelhiPolice) Delhi Police denies reports of FIR against CJP protestersThe statement was issued after reports and social media posts suggested that legal action had been initiated against individuals who attended the protest at Jantar Mantar.However, Delhi Police made it clear that no FIR had been registered in connection with the demonstration.The department urged citizens to verify information through official channels before sharing it online, highlighting the importance of preventing the spread of false or misleading claims.Six people detained as precaution during Jantar Mantar protestEarlier in the day, Delhi Police confirmed that six individuals had been detained as a preventive measure to avoid any possible confrontation between rival groups near the protest venue.According to officials, police received inputs indicating the possibility of tensions between supporters and opponents of the online movement.The detentions were carried out to maintain law and order and ensure that the protest concluded peacefully.Officials said the individuals were taken into preventive custody after allegedly attempting to create a disturbance near the demonstration site.No major incidents were reported during the gathering.Heavy security deployed across Delhi for CJP demonstrationDelhi Police implemented extensive security arrangements ahead of the protest.More than 1,000 police personnel were deployed across New Delhi district and other sensitive locations in the national capital.Additional security measures were also put in place at Indira Gandhi International Airport and major border entry points.Senior officers closely monitored the situation, while barricades were installed around Jantar Mantar to regulate movement and maintain separation between groups.The security arrangements were aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing any disruption during the event.Hundreds gather at Jantar Mantar for Cockroach Janta Party protestThe protest was led by Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke and attracted hundreds of participants, including students and young professionals.Many attendees wore cockroach masks and carried flowers as symbols associated with the movement.Several school students were also seen attending the gathering along with their parents.Participants raised slogans demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in examinations and recruitment processes.The protest focused on calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over concerns related to examination and recruitment systems.Why students joined the CJP protestThe Cockroach Janta Party emerged as a youth-driven online movement following allegations of irregularities in various examinations and recruitment tests.Supporters have raised concerns regarding examinations such as NEET, CUET, CBSE-linked tests and Staff Selection Commission (SSC) recruitment processes.Over the past several weeks, the group has expanded its reach through social media campaigns advocating greater transparency, accountability and reforms in examination systems.The Jantar Mantar gathering marked one of the movement's largest public demonstrations so far.Delhi Police urges public to rely on official informationFollowing the protest, Delhi Police reiterated the importance of relying on verified information from official sources.The department's clarification on X sought to counter rumours about an FIR and prevent misinformation from spreading online.While preventive detentions were carried out to maintain order, police confirmed that no FIR had been registered against protesters participating in the demonstration.Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged citizens to exercise caution before sharing unverified claims on social media.Inputs from agencies
US President Donald Trump has spent years attacking his predecessor Barack Obama for what he called a giveaway to Iran. The image of "pallets of cash" became one of his favorite political talking points, a symbol of what he portrayed as weakness in dealing with Tehran.Yet the irony of the current moment is becoming harder to ignore. As negotiations to end the latest US-Iran confrontation stall, Iran is demanding access to billions of dollars in frozen assets, and the success of any deal may depend on whether Trump agrees to some form of financial relief. The president who built his Iran policy around rejecting Obama's approach may now find himself confronting the same reality that faced previous administrations -- diplomacy with Iran often comes with a price tag.Pay $12 billion now, and $12 billion laterAn indication of how central money has become to the negotiations came from Mohsen Rezaei, military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, in an exclusive interview with CNN. According to Rezaei, the negotiations have reached a deadlock and the responsibility for breaking it lies squarely with Trump. He said Iran wants the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets, with $12 billion to be made available immediately after an interim agreement is signed and another $12 billion at a later stage.Also Read | Iran says frozen funds key to progress in US talksRezaei termed the demand not a concession from Washington but as a test of American intentions. "If he wants to reach an agreement with Iran, this $24 billion is a test of trust that Iran wants to have with Trump," he told CNN. "This is our own money, not America's money."The significance of the demand extends beyond the amount involved. By publicly linking the prospects of peace to the release of frozen assets, Iran has effectively made financial compensation the central political hurdle in the negotiations.Trump's Obama problemFor Trump, the issue is not as much financial as deeply political. CNN reported that Trump has repeatedly instructed his team that any agreement with Iran must be viewed as stronger than the 2015 nuclear accord negotiated by Obama. Equally important, he wants to avoid anything that resembles the controversial payments that became a focal point of Republican criticism a decade ago.Throughout his political career, Trump has portrayed the Obama administration's handling of Iran as evidence of weak leadership. Recently, he revived his criticism of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, describing it as a horrible deal and insisting that any agreement he reaches will be far better. That political history now threatens to constrain his negotiating options. A deal that includes billions of dollars flowing to Iran could invite immediate comparisons with the very agreement he spent years denouncing.Also Read | Iran retains about 22% of missile stockpile, says TrumpWhat Obama actually didThe comparison is unavoidable because financial relief was also a major feature of the Obama-era approach. The JCPOA, finalized in 2015 after negotiations between Iran and the P5+1 powers, imposed strict limits on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. The agreement capped uranium enrichment, reduced centrifuge capacity and established what experts described as one of the most intrusive inspection regimes ever negotiated.The deal also coincided with the release of $1.7 billion to Iran, a figure that Trump and other critics frequently cited as evidence of appeasement. Critics argued that sanctions relief and financial compensation rewarded Iranian behaviour across the region.Supporters of the agreement took a different view. They argued that much of the money involved consisted of Iranian assets that had already belonged to Iran and that the deal successfully halted Tehran's progress toward a nuclear weapon while providing unprecedented transparency into its nuclear program.Former US Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, who helped negotiate the agreement, told CNBC that the JCPOA's most important achievement was its extraordinary verification system. Arms control experts similarly maintain that the deal effectively constrained Iran's nuclear ambitions before it unraveled.Why the current situation is more difficultThe irony for Trump is that negotiations now are taking place under conditions far less favorable than those that existed in 2015. After the US withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, Iran gradually breached many of the agreement's restrictions. It expanded uranium enrichment, accumulated a much larger stockpile of nuclear material and scaled back some transparency measures.Many think that any new agreement must address a more advanced Iranian nuclear programme and a more complicated political environment. There is also the added challenge of rebuilding trust after years of mutual escalation. That reality means economic incentives have become even more important. Tehran is demanding tangible benefits upfront rather than promises of future relief. From Iran's perspective, accepting new restrictions without immediate financial gains would be politically difficult.Trump's search for a political workaroundTrump's advisers are acutely aware of the political risks. According to CNN, administration officials are exploring mechanisms that would allow Iran to receive financial relief without creating the appearance of a direct US payment. One possibility involves third countries such as Qatar releasing funds. Another would permit access to frozen assets while restricting their use to humanitarian purchases such as food, medicine and agricultural goods. There have also been discussions about creating reconstruction funds financed largely by Gulf states rather than the United States.These proposals reflect an important reality. The debate is no longer about whether Iran should receive economic relief at some stage. It is increasingly about how that relief can be structured so that Trump can claim he has not repeated Obama's mistakes. In that sense, the dispute is becoming as much about political messaging as about financial policy.Leverage versus peaceThe White House remains reluctant to surrender what it views as one of its strongest bargaining tools. Trump has publicly insisted that the United States will retain control over frozen Iranian funds until Iran meets Washington's demands. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has similarly emphasised that sanctions relief should follow compliance rather than precede it.The administration's concern is straightforward. Once funds are released, Washington loses a major source of leverage. That leverage could prove critical during the highly technical second phase of negotiations focused on Iran's nuclear program. Iran, however, sees the issue differently. For Tehran, immediate access to frozen assets is evidence that the United States is negotiating in good faith. Without such a gesture, Iranian leaders appear unwilling to commit themselves to a broader settlement. That difference in perspective has created the current impasse.The choice facing TrumpThe strategic dilemma confronting Trump is becoming increasingly clear. He can maintain a hard line and refuse any significant financial concession, preserving political consistency but risking the collapse of negotiations. Or he can accept some form of economic relief for Iran, potentially unlocking a broader peace agreement but exposing himself to accusations that he has embraced a version of the same approach he once condemned.Rezaei's comments to CNN show how central that decision has become. By presenting the release of $24 billion as a test of trust, Iran has effectively challenged Trump to choose between ideological purity and diplomatic pragmatism. For a president who built his Iran policy in opposition to Obama's legacy, that may be the most uncomfortable choice of all. If peace ultimately requires releasing billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets, Trump would be seen as eating his words when he had asked Iran for complete surrender.
According to the military, troops "perceived a vehicle accelerating toward them"
According to the SP, the gang targeted poor families burdened by debt by allegedly luring them with promises of jobs for their daughters
For nearly a decade, India's carmakers chased the sport utility vehicle (SUV) dream.Higher margins, aspirational buyers and a growing appetite for larger vehicles pushed manufacturers to flood showrooms with sport utility vehicles and compact SUVs, steadily relegating hatchbacks โ once the backbone of India's passenger vehicle market โ to the sidelines.Also Read: Tata Motors PV launches next-gen Tiago from Rs 4.69 lakh, Tiago.ev from Rs 6.99 lakh with lifetime battery warrantyThe strategy worked. Utility vehicles now account for well over half of all passenger vehicle sales in India and contributed nearly two-thirds of the 4.3 million vehicles sold in FY25.But as economic pressures mount, vehicle prices climb and first-time buyers struggle to enter the market, India's biggest automakers are beginning to acknowledge a reality they may have overlooked: the country's next wave of growth could come from the very segment they left behind.From Maruti Suzuki's renewed commitment to entry-level cars to Tata Motors' ambitious reinvention of the Tiago, hatchbacks are once again finding themselves at the centre of boardroom conversations.Also Read: Small cars strike back: Maruti Suzuki bets on mass mobility while costs squeeze fourth quarter profitsAnd this time, carmakers are betting that small cars no longer have to feel small.The forgotten customerThe shift is being driven by a growing recognition that India's passenger vehicle market cannot rely indefinitely on premiumisation.While SUVs have transformed the industry's revenue mix, they have also pushed average vehicle prices steadily higher, making car ownership increasingly difficult for millions of households.Maruti Suzuki Chairman R. C. Bhargava recently signalled the company's intent to rebalance its portfolio."We are planning to develop both small cars and SUVs. The small car market is growing. India is a country where small cars have a long-term future," Bhargava said.The comments mark a notable shift in tone from an industry that spent years focusing on larger and more expensive vehicles.For Maruti, which built its dominance on models such as the Alto, WagonR and Swift, the renewed emphasis reflects confidence that affordability will remain central to India's mobility story."A large part of the populationโฆ need small cars" for basic mobility, Bhargava said.Industry analysts say the opportunity remains substantial."In the small cars segment, there is a much bigger conversion pool that carmakers can navigate. Hence, there is this renewed push towards small cars and that segment," said Hemal Thakkar, Senior Director, Crisil Intelligence."India is a price sensitive market and hence, small cars will stay and customers are looking for upgrades within vehicles. If carmakers can provide small cars with new features and upgrades, then there will be more customers for the small car space," he added.Making hatchbacks aspirational againIf Maruti is signalling a strategic return to small cars, Tata Motors is attempting something more ambitious โ making hatchbacks desirable again.The company this week unveiled the next-generation Tiago and Tiago.ev, positioning them as technology-rich products aimed at reviving a segment many in the industry had effectively written off."Hatchbacks remain the gateway to personal mobility for millions of Indian families and yet, for far too long, this segment received scarce attention from the industry, when it genuinely deserved far more," said Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles.Calling the new Tiago "not an evolution but a full reinvention", Chandra said the vehicle brings substantially upgraded design, connected technologies and safety features that were once largely reserved for more expensive categories.The next-generation Tiago gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, a dual-screen dashboard, wireless charging and a segment-first 360-degree surround-view camera."The feeling of wow shouldn't be reserved for expensive cars," Chandra said."Today hatchback customers want far more than mobility, they want design, tech, safety and pride of ownership. A car they want to flaunt."The company has also positioned the Tiago.ev as an affordable electric mobility option, offering a lifetime battery warranty and fast-charging capability that can add up to 100 kilometres of range in 18 minutes."Tiago will make EV more accessible," Chandra said.Why affordability is back in focusThe renewed interest in hatchbacks comes as affordability re-emerges as a key concern across the industry.Vehicle prices have risen sharply in recent years because of stricter regulations, higher commodity costs and the addition of new safety and technology features.That has increasingly pushed first-time buyers out of the market.According to Srikumar Krishnamurthy, Senior Vice President and Co-Group Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA Limited, hatchbacks continue to play a critical role in expanding the customer base."Hatchbacks remain a preferred segment, particularly for first-time buyers and households seeking a second vehicle, as affordability and comfort are key purchase considerations," he said."From an original equipment perspective, a presence across segments also helps improve reach, especially in Tier 2/3 cities."Krishnamurthy added that rising vehicle costs are forcing manufacturers to revisit their entry-level offerings."With input costs rising and vehicle prices expected to increase further, affordability is becoming even more important, especially in the mass-market segment. In response, OEs are looking to reposition entry-level hatchbacks and compact SUVs through new launches and refreshed variants that offer a stronger value proposition to consumers."Beyond SUVsThe industry's renewed focus on hatchbacks does not mean SUVs are going away.Far from it.Utility vehicles remain India's dominant passenger vehicle category and continue to drive growth and profitability for manufacturers.What is changing, however, is the recognition that growth cannot come solely from moving customers up the value chain.To sustain volumes, carmakers need to bring new buyers into the market.That is especially important as India adds millions of young consumers entering the workforce, many of whom are seeking their first personal vehicle but remain highly sensitive to price.Affordable electric hatchbacks could further strengthen the segment's appeal in coming years."Affordable EV hatchbacks could become an attractive proposition as charging infrastructure improves, range-anxiety concerns ease, and the financing environment becomes more supportive," Krishnamurthy said.For much of the past decade, India's hatchbacks were treated as yesterday's story while SUVs became the industry's obsession.Now, as automakers search for their next growth engine, the segment that once put millions of Indians behind the wheel is beginning to look relevant again.The future of India's auto market may still be taller, bolder and SUV-shaped. But increasingly, carmakers are recognising that the road to scale may once again begin with a hatchback.
In a significant breakthrough, former Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla has been pinpointed as a pivotal conspirator in the Bhangar bomb explosion case, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The police can arrest the accused; they can also take action against him according to the law; but they cannot deliberately defame the accused in the name of arrest; observes Calcutta High Court