Devastating Landslide Hits Vaishno Devi Yatra Route Amidst Heavy Rains
Heavy monsoon rains have triggered a catastrophic landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu's Trikuta Hills, leading to numerous fatalities and injuries. At least 30 people were killed and several injured after the landslide struck near Adh Kunwari on Tuesday. Reports indicated that 34 people died near Adhkunwari following a cloudburst, while four others perished in the hilly Doda district due to rain and flash floods. The landslide occurred about halfway along the 12-km trek from Katra town to the hilltop shrine, prompting immediate rescue operations. Security forces, disaster relief teams, and local volunteers were pressed into service to clear debris and search for survivors. The pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi Temple has been temporarily halted.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed five Mi-17 helicopters and a Chinook chopper from bases in the Northern Sector, including Chandigarh, to assist with flood relief operations in Jammu and Punjab, ensuring maximum rescue capability. Additional helicopters remain on standby for further efforts. Heavy rains also disrupted rail traffic, leading to the cancellation of 45 trains and short-termination of 25. Furthermore, nearly 50 students from the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, were rescued after their hostel was submerged by floodwaters.
US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Goods
The United States officially implemented a steep 50% tariff on Indian goods exports starting August 27, 2025. This move follows President Donald Trump's decision to impose an additional 25% tariff, bringing the total to 50%, partly attributed to India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The US Department of Homeland Security issued a notification confirming the new tariffs. India is now among the countries facing the highest US tariffs.
In response, India is planning dedicated outreach programs in 40 countries, including the UK, Japan, and South Korea, to boost textiles exports and mitigate the impact of these tariffs. Government sources have stated there is "no cause for panic," assuring that communication channels between New Delhi and Washington remain open to resolve the issue. Industry bodies suggest that while the tariffs will hurt major export sectors, they also present an opportunity for India to strengthen its position as a resilient and future-ready trading partner.
India Bids to Host 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officially approved India's bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Ahmedabad has been proposed as the "ideal" venue, citing its "world-class stadiums, cutting-edge training facilities, and a passionate sporting culture."
Maruti Suzuki Launches First Global Electric Vehicle
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Maruti Suzuki's first global electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, from Hansalpur, Gujarat. This 'made-in-India' car is set to be exported to over 100 countries, including Japan. Additionally, PM Modi inaugurated a lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility by Suzuki, Toshiba, and Denso, which will support hybrid and electric vehicle battery production. Suzuki Motor has pledged to invest ā¹70,000 crore in India over the next five to six years.
Other Significant Developments
The Supreme Court is set to welcome two more judges, and the Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the reshuffling of 14 judges across nine High Courts. Furthermore, India is slated to host the Chess World Cup in Goa in 2025, marking its return after 23 years. ISRO has also made significant progress on the Gaganyaan mission.