India Suspends Most Postal Services to United States Amid New Customs Regulations
India's Department of Posts has announced a temporary suspension of most international postal services to the United States, effective August 25, 2025. This decision comes in response to new regulatory changes introduced by the US government, specifically Executive Order No. 14324, issued on July 30, 2025. This order withdraws the duty-free de minimis exemption for goods valued up to USD 800, which previously allowed low-value goods to enter the US without customs duties. Consequently, all goods sent to the US, regardless of their value, will be subject to customs duties under the International Emergency Economic Power Act (IEEPA) tariff framework, with the exception of gift items valued up to USD 100.
PM Modi Highlights India's Growing Space Sector and Future Aspirations
On National Space Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India's remarkable progress in the space sector. He attributed this advancement to the skills and talent of India's 140 crore citizens and highlighted the government's reforms that have encouraged youngsters, the private sector, and startups to explore new frontiers. The Prime Minister urged India's private sector and startups to aim for launching 50 rockets per year and expressed confidence that the country would achieve even greater heights, including building its own space station in the coming years. Modi emphasized that space technology in India is not merely for scientific exploration but also for enhancing the 'Ease of Living' for ordinary citizens, citing applications in crop insurance, fishermen safety, and disaster management.
India Holds Firm on "Red Lines" in Trade Talks with US, Addresses Energy Ties
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar affirmed that India maintains certain "red lines" in its trade negotiations with the United States, particularly to safeguard the interests of Indian farmers and small producers. Jaishankar stated that India is determined not to compromise on these issues. He also criticized the US for targeting New Delhi's energy ties with Moscow, questioning why similar scrutiny has not been applied to other major importers of Russian oil and LNG like China and the European Union. These statements come days before additional American tariffs on Indian goods are set to take effect.
Cheteshwar Pujara Announces Retirement from Indian Cricket
Veteran Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. The announcement marks the end of a significant career for the renowned Test batsman.
Industrialist Anil Ambani Denies Bank Fraud Allegations
Industrialist Anil Ambani has denied allegations of a Rs 2,000-crore bank fraud following recent raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at his offices.
Dream11 Reportedly Withdraws as Team India's Title Sponsor
Dream11 has reportedly decided to step down as the official title sponsor for Team India ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup. Sources indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will soon invite new bids for the sponsorship.