ANDAMAN NICOBAR ISLANDS DEVELOPMENT
Sri Lanka hikes household power tariffs by 15%, Power regulator says
Sri Lanka is set to increase household power tariffs by 15%, with industries facing a 20.5% hike and tourism businesses a 20.2% rise. This move, effective from midnight, is crucial for securing the next $344 million tranche from the IMF. The decision reverses a previous 20% price reduction and addresses cost recovery concerns for the Ceylon Electricity Board.
Tunnel fire cripples LIRR services at Grand Central, sparks major commuter delays
A fire early Tuesday morning halted all Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) services to Grand Central Terminal, disrupting eight major lines. The blaze began in a tunnel electrical panel, filling the area with thick smoke and forcing emergency shutdowns. Three firefighters and one civilian sustained minor injuries. While subway lines remained unaffected, LIRR fares were cross-honoured. Officials said the fire was difficult to access and is still under investigation. Train reroutes and delays remain ongoing across multiple lines.
Splatoon Raiders is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 and getting a big Splatoon 3 update
Nintendo unveiled Splatoon Raiders, a spin-off game exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, where players become mechanics exploring the Spirhalite Islands with Deep Cut. A Splatoon 3 update arrives on June 12 for both Switch consoles, introducing new weapons and enhanced visuals on the Switch 2. Cross-platform play between Switch and Switch 2 will be supported.
Maldives tourism names Katrina Kaif as Global Ambassador to boost destination appeal amid growing India-Maldives ties
Visit Maldives has appointed Bollywood star Katrina Kaif as its Global Ambassador, recognizing her influence and affinity for the islands. This announcement coincides with strengthened India-Maldives relations, highlighted by recent agreements in trade, defense, and tourism. India's support includes financial aid and infrastructure projects, aiming to boost Maldives' economy and tourism sector, particularly attracting Indian travelers.
Two Chinese aircraft carriers seen in Pacific for first time, Japan says
Japan's Defence Ministry has confirmed the Liaoning and Shandong operating in separate locations in the Pacific on Saturday, both near remote southern islands belonging to Japan. Iwaya said the ministry had communicated with Beijing through China's embassy in Japan and that it would take further "appropriate steps" as needed. He stopped short of condemning China for the operations.
India sees heaviest May rainfall since 1901: IMD details how much every state received
India experienced its wettest May since 1901, with an average rainfall of 126.7 mm, 106% above the Long Period Average, according to the India Meteorological Department. The early arrival of the southwest monsoon brought consistent rainfall to southern and eastern India, contributing to this historic record. While temperatures remained below normal, several regions experienced extremely heavy rainfall.
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This deal can trigger a new India-China power play
The UK's agreement to cede the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius presents India with a strategic opportunity in the Indian Ocean. This move allows India to enhance its maritime influence and counter China's growing presence in the region. While challenges remain, the Chagos Islands, alongside existing partnerships, can strengthen India's role as a security provider.
New Zealand sees coldest morning of the year as Polar Blast dumps snow, brings mercury down across country
New Zealand saw its coldest day of 2025 on Sunday, June 8. A polar blast brought snow and icy conditions across several cities. With temperature dropping significantly across cities, authorities have warned people to limit their travel due to treacherous roads. The capital city Wellington is under a heavy swell warning.
Love Island USA Aftersun: See release date, host and where to watch talk show
Love Island USA Aftersun returns on June 7 on Peacock with a new host, Sophie Monk. The weekly talk show covers eliminated Islanders and villa drama. Maura Higgins hosted the first season. Viewers will continue to shape the main show using the official Love Island USA app.
Disaster resilience requires innovative finance: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights the importance of strong disaster early warning systems. Coastal regions face great risk from climate change. India experienced cyclones and tsunamis. India also helped build a Tsunami Warning system for 29 countries. The coalition for disaster-resilient infrastructure is working with small island states. Skill development projects are needed in higher education.
Andaman LG orders discontinuation of 'No dues certificate' while registering property
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are set for significant changes. Lieutenant Governor D K Joshi has approved key reforms in the Revenue Department. 'No Dues Certificate' and 'Non-Encumbrance Certificate' are discontinued for property registration. Valuation certificates are also abolished. ANIIDCO can now open new petrol pumps based on demand. The Revenue Department will no longer conduct mandatory annual boat surveys.
Indians can now visit this hidden tropical paradise without a visa
This scenic island nation in the western Pacific, now offers 30-day visa-free entry to Indian travellers. Known for its lush jungles, jellyfish-filled lakes, and coral reefs, it’s a perfect offbeat getaway. Though there are no direct flights, Palau is accessible via major Asian cities.
New Zealand braces for cool weekend as snow and heavy rain sweep cities, check forecast
New Zealand gears up for a chilly weekend as cool weather sweeps across both North and South Islands. Rainfall is expected in several cities, accompanied by strong winds and potential thunderstorms. The temperature is likely to hover around 10 degrees with high winds gushing across cities keeping the temperature on the lower side. The South Island anticipates snow and sub-zero temperatures, leading to travel disruptions.
Smart development means eco smart
India and Japan are collaborating to enhance maritime cooperation, focusing on sustainable technologies and infrastructure development in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. The initiative aims to transform these regions into 'Smart Islands' with renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and smart mobility.
Yulissa Escobar said the N-word; Trump and the real reason she got booted from Love Island season 7
Yulissa Escobar exited Love Island USA Season 7 after controversial content from her past resurfaced. Videos emerged showing Escobar using racial slurs in podcast appearances, along with a TikTok video revealing her support for Donald Trump. This led to significant backlash and calls for her removal, prompting questions about casting processes and background checks.
Centre nudges Indian carriers to invest in crisis-hit Air Mauritius amid strategic push in Indian Ocean
The Indian government is encouraging its airlines to strategically invest in Air Mauritius, which faces a severe financial crisis with a significant negative equity. This initiative follows a request from Mauritius for potential investment and increased flight frequencies from Indian carriers.
Tamil Nadu’s multi-crore mission: How 300 villagers and 8,500 reef blocks aim to save a sinking island, and create jobs too
Villagers in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin are preparing to dive underwater, aiding a Rs 50 crore government project to revive the disappearing Kariyachalli Island. They will deploy artificial coral reefs to combat erosion and foster marine life. This initiative aims to protect the coast, boost biodiversity, and create sustainable livelihoods, showcasing a collaborative approach to climate change.
Love Island USA Season 7: Here's release date, time, episode schedule, contestants, host and where to watch
Love Island USA returns for Season 7 on June 3, streaming on Peacock. Ten new singles will enter the villa in Fiji, with more contestants joining later. Episodes will air six days a week.
Here’s how to watch ‘Love Island UK’ 2025 for free, no matter where you are
Love Island UK returns for its 12th season on June 9, 2025, promising viewers worldwide drama and twists. While ITVX streams the show for free, it's geo-locked to the UK. Fans globally can bypass this restriction using a VPN like ExpressVPN, connecting to a UK server to access the live streams and join the summer's hottest drama.
Love Island: A new summer of romance is set to begin as Love Island USA season 7 premieres tonight
Get ready for Love Island USA Season 7. It starts June 3, 2025, on Peacock. Ariana Madix hosts the show in Fiji. Ten new singles will find love. Iain Stirling gives witty commentary. New episodes come daily, except Wednesdays. Love Island Aftersun starts June 7. Seasons 4-6 are streaming. Islanders face challenges for love and $100,000.
India and Japan agree to deepen maritime relations
In a pivotal meeting, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal engaged with Japan's Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi, focusing on enhancing maritime collaborations. Key topics included attracting Japanese investment in shipyards and advancing port digitization efforts. They also delved into green initiatives and potential R&D partnerships, as well as initiatives to upskill Indian seafarers for opportunities in Japan.
IMD weather warning: Extremely heavy rainfall in Assam, Meghalaya; Alert issued for Delhi-NCR, UP, Bihar and more states
The India Meteorological Department has issued a severe weather alert as Assam and Meghalaya face extreme rainfall, with Silchar recording an astounding 42 cm. Northeastern states, along with Kerala, Odisha, and West Bengal, are experiencing heavy showers.
China accuses US's Pete Hegseth of 'vilifying' remarks at security forum
China has formally protested to the United States following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks, which Beijing views as a vilification and a deliberate disregard for regional peace efforts. Hegseth's warnings about China's threat in the Indo-Pacific and calls for increased defense spending among allies have been met with strong condemnation. China accuses the U.S.
85.5% Indian households posses at least one smartphone, 99.5% youth use UPI: MoSPI survey
A recent survey by MoSPI reveals that over 85% of Indian households now own smartphones, with internet access available within the premises for 86.3%. Among young adults aged 15-29, smartphone ownership is nearly universal, and UPI dominates digital banking transactions. The survey highlights the increasing digital penetration across both rural and urban India.
Andaman airspace to be closed for 3 hours tomorrow for high altitude weapon test
The Andaman and Nicobar airspace faced restrictions. This closure, spanning three hours, facilitated a high-altitude weapon test. The tri-services command conducted the exercise. Authorities issued a Notice to Airmen beforehand. Civilian aircraft were restricted during this period. A similar test is scheduled for tomorrow. Such tests are routine for the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
FIR lodged against ex-Cong MP & vice chairman of ANSCBL for 'irregularities' in sanctioning loans
Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Kuldeep Rai Sharma, vice chairman of Andaman and Nicobar State Cooperative Bank, and others for alleged irregularities in loan sanctions. The complaint cites disregard for loan screening committee recommendations, CIBIL reports, and proper documentation.
Too Soon! Monsoon hits Andamans nine days earlier
The India Meteorological Department announced the early arrival of the southwest monsoon. It reached parts of the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. This arrival is nine days ahead of schedule. Conditions are favorable for further advancement. The monsoon is crucial for kharif crops. The IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for the 2025 monsoon season.
Rain lashes parts of Delhi; watch visuals from North Block
Delhi and NCR experienced rainfall on Tuesday, providing relief from the heat but raising concerns about potential waterlogging. Simultaneously, the southwest monsoon progressed into parts of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall to the Nicobar Islands. Conditions are favorable for the monsoon to advance further in the coming days.
Monsoon reaches south Bay of Bengal, Nicobar Islands: IMD
The southwest monsoon advanced into parts of the south Bay of Bengal, south Andaman Sea, Nicobar Islands, and areas of the north Andaman Sea on Tuesday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This follows two days of moderate to heavy rainfall in the Nicobar Islands.
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