The Centre has rolled out a ₹497-crore relief package to support exporters struggling due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. The conflict has disrupted key shipping routes, pushing up freight charges and insurance costs, and creating uncertainty for businesses dependent on overseas trade.

To help exporters manage these challenges, the Centre has introduced the RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) scheme. The initiative is designed to reduce financial stress and ensure that export activity continues smoothly despite global disruptions.

Exporters, especially those dealing with West Asian markets, have been facing delays in shipments and rising costs. In some cases, goods have taken longer routes or faced uncertainty in reaching their destinations, affecting delivery timelines and payments.

The scheme focuses on three main areas. It offers support for ongoing shipments by easing export obligations and reducing penalties. It also provides stronger insurance cover for future exports, giving businesses confidence to continue trading. In addition, small businesses and MSMEs will receive partial relief for the extra freight and insurance costs they are currently bearing.

MSMEs are expected to benefit the most, as they are more vulnerable to sudden increases in expenses and disruptions in cash flow. By sharing part of the financial burden, the government aims to help them stay afloat and maintain operations.

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Three friends from Pune lost their lives on Wednesday morning when the Toyota Fortuner they were travelling in fell off a flyover on the Delhi‑Mumbai Expressway in Kota district, Rajasthan. The young men were returning home after a vacation in Ladakh with a group of friends.

The group of 10 friends had travelled in three vehicles. While two cars had stopped briefly on the expressway, the Fortuner, carrying Sidhant Alaat (21), Kunal Chordiya (25), and Mayurewa Padale (23), continued driving. Near Balapura village, the SUV hit a divider, lost control, and plunged about 30 feet into a dry sewer beneath the flyover.

All three passengers were seriously injured and were declared dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital. Their bodies were later sent for autopsy at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Kaithoon, police said. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the crash, but initial reports suggest the driver may have dozed off during the long journey.

The accident has highlighted the risks of long-distance night driving, especially on high-speed expressways. Police are examining the vehicle and road conditions to confirm whether fatigue, speed, or road factors contributed to the tragedy.

The three friends lived in different parts of Pune namely Wakad, Mahalunge, and Pimpri  and had been on an extended Ladakh trip that included Leh and surrounding areas. Their journey had been briefly delayed due to snowfall in the region, and they had resumed their drive home once conditions improved.

Family members have reached Kota to complete formalities and take the bodies back to Pune. Friends and local residents expressed grief over the loss, remembering the trio as enthusiastic travellers and close companions.

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A newly identified spyware called DarkSword is raising serious concerns among cybersecurity experts, as it could expose the personal data of millions of iPhone users.

The threat mainly targets devices that are running outdated versions of Apple’s iOS. Since many users delay installing updates, a significant number of iPhones remain vulnerable to such attacks.

What makes DarkSword particularly alarming is how it spreads. Unlike traditional malware that requires users to download files or apps, this spyware can infect a device simply through a malicious link or compromised website. In many cases, users may not even realise that their device has been targeted.

Once it gains access, DarkSword can collect a wide range of sensitive information. This includes text messages, contacts, photos, call logs, and location data. It may also access login credentials, increasing the risk of identity theft and financial fraud.

Another concerning aspect is how difficult it is to detect. The spyware uses advanced techniques to operate in the background without leaving obvious traces. In some instances, it can even remove itself after execution, making it harder for users or security systems to identify the breach.

Apple has responded by releasing security updates that fix the vulnerabilities exploited by the spyware. Users who have already updated their devices to the latest iOS version are considered safe from this particular threat.

Cybersecurity professionals strongly advise iPhone users to update their software immediately, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and remain cautious while browsing unfamiliar websites.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) over its recent decision to transfer several senior officials in the state ahead of elections.

Soon after the poll schedule was announced, the ECI ordered a series of major administrative changes. Top officials, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police and the Kolkata Police Commissioner, were replaced along with many other officers.

Reacting sharply, Banerjee called the move “unfair” and said it felt like an attempt to control the state administration during a sensitive time. She questioned why such large-scale transfers were made suddenly and without consulting the state government. According to her, this breaks the usual practice where states are asked to suggest names before key officials are changed.

In a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, she expressed concern over what she described as a lack of transparency and due process. She argued that removing so many officers at once could disrupt governance and affect ongoing administrative work.

However, the Election Commission has defended its actions. Officials say that during elections, the Commission has full authority to transfer or reassign officers involved in poll duties to ensure neutrality. The aim, they maintain, is to create a level playing field and prevent any possible bias.

Former election officials have also pointed out that while consultation with states is often followed as a convention, it is not a legal requirement. The Commission can act independently if it believes changes are necessary for free and fair elections.

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The United States is weighing a significant increase in its military presence in the Middle East as the conflict with Iran enters a possible new phase, according to senior officials and international reports. Discussions are ongoing regarding the deployment of thousands of additional troops to strengthen security in the region, though no final decisions have been made.

Key options under review include protecting strategic maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for global oil shipments, and securing areas near Kharg Island, an important Iranian oil export hub that has suffered damage in earlier US. strikes. Such moves aim to ensure continued energy flow, prevent further escalation, and enhance US leverage against Tehran.

The conflict, now entering its third week, has been dominated by Operation Epic Fury, a US-led campaign targeting Iranian military and missile infrastructure. These strikes have significantly reduced Iran’s naval and missile capabilities, though they have also caused casualties, including deaths and hundreds of wounded service members.

Attacks on energy infrastructure and the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to rising global oil prices, with markets responding sharply to the instability. The broader regional tensions have prompted allies in Europe and the Middle East to caution against expanded US involvement, stressing the importance of diplomatic solutions alongside military planning.

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Global oil prices have risen sharply, crossing $110 per barrel, as tensions grow in the Middle East. The increase comes after fresh conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which has raised concerns about oil supply disruptions.

The latest rise in prices follows attacks by Iran on important energy facilities in the Gulf region. These attacks were reportedly in response to earlier strikes on Iran’s gas infrastructure. Some of the targeted areas include major oil and gas sites in countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Damage to these facilities has increased fears that global energy supplies could be affected.

Brent crude oil, which is the global benchmark, climbed close to $115 per barrel. US crude oil prices also went up significantly. Experts say that prices could rise further if the situation worsens or continues for a long time.

One of the biggest concerns is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but very important route through which a large portion of the world’s oil is transported. If this route is disrupted due to conflict, it could lead to serious supply shortages and even higher prices globally.

The impact is not limited to oil. Natural gas prices have also increased, especially in Europe. At the same time, stock markets around the world have shown weakness, as investors worry about rising costs and economic uncertainty.

For countries like India, which import most of their oil, this situation is worrying. Higher oil prices can lead to increased fuel costs, higher inflation, and pressure on the economy. Everyday expenses for people may also rise as transportation and production costs go up.

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Actors Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra Jonas have been recognised as global changemakers by National Geographic, highlighting their work beyond the world of cinema.

The two stars have been featured in National Geographic’s annual ‘33’ list, which celebrates individuals from across the globe who are making a real difference in society. The list includes voices from different fields such as environment, health, science, and social impact.

Alia Bhatt earned a spot on the list for her growing efforts in environmental awareness. Over the years, she has used her public platform to talk about sustainable living and the need to protect the planet. From supporting eco-friendly initiatives to encouraging mindful lifestyle choices, her work reflects a strong commitment to environmental causes.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas was recognised for her efforts in raising awareness about health issues, particularly diabetes. She has been actively involved in spreading information about the condition, especially in countries like India where it affects millions. Through campaigns and advocacy, she has been working to promote early detection and reduce the stigma around the disease.

What makes this recognition special is that it goes beyond celebrity status. The National Geographic list focuses on individuals who are using their influence to bring about meaningful change. By including Bhatt and Chopra, it highlights how public figures can play an important role in shaping conversations around important global issues.

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Unidentified drones were recently spotted flying over a high-security US Army base in Washington, raising fresh concerns about national security and surveillance risks. The base is associated with senior American officials, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, according to multiple reports.

The drone activity was observed over multiple days, with several devices reportedly seen in the air during nighttime hours. Authorities have not yet confirmed who operated the drones or what their objective was, but investigations are underway involving military and federal agencies.

The base, Fort Lesley J. McNair, is considered one of the most sensitive military installations in the United States. Located near key government buildings, it plays a critical role in military planning and administration, making any breach of its airspace a serious concern.

The incident comes at a time of rising geopolitical tensions, particularly involving Iran. While officials have not established any direct link between the drone sightings and a foreign actor, the timing has raised suspicions about possible surveillance or probing of US defenses.

In response, security measures have been tightened at several military facilities. Some bases reportedly increased monitoring and reviewed emergency protocols to deal with potential aerial threats. However, there has been no official confirmation of evacuations or relocation of top officials.

It is said that drones are increasingly being used for reconnaissance due to their low cost and ability to evade traditional detection systems. Incidents like this highlight the growing challenge of securing sensitive installations against emerging technologies.

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Lionel Messi made history on Wednesday, netting the 900th goal of his professional career—a feat only previously achieved by Cristiano Ronaldo. The record-breaking strike came during Inter Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 clash against Nashville SC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, giving fans a bittersweet moment of celebration.

Messi struck early, finding the net in the seventh minute with a precise left-footed finish from a Sergio Reguilón cross. The goal was officially counted toward his astonishing tally across club and country, spanning legendary stints with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and now Inter Miami, alongside his record-breaking career with Argentina.

Despite Messi’s historic strike, Nashville SC fought back. Cristian Espinoza equalized in the 74th minute, leaving the match at 1‑1. While Messi’s moment will be remembered forever, the aggregate score saw Nashville advance to the quarter-finals on away goals, ending Miami’s Champions Cup run.

At 38, Messi’s milestone further cements his place in football’s pantheon. He reached 900 goals in roughly 1,142 appearances, nearly 100 fewer than Ronaldo required for the same milestone, highlighting his extraordinary efficiency and longevity at the top level.

Messi’s record includes countless iconic moments: stunning goals for Barcelona, memorable seasons at PSG, international glory with Argentina, including lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and now making waves in the United States. While Inter Miami fans face disappointment, they witnessed history firsthand, cheering a legend whose impact transcends any single match result.

Nashville will now face either Philadelphia Union or Club América in the next stage of the tournament, but for the football world, Wednesday belonged to Messi.

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The United States’ top intelligence official, Tulsi Gabbard, has warned that China and Pakistan are among the biggest nuclear threats to the country. She said both nations are working on missile programs that could potentially reach the US mainland.

Gabbard spoke about this during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, presenting the 2026 Annual Threat Report. She said that China, Pakistan, Russia, and North Korea are developing new missile technologies, some capable of carrying nuclear weapons. These could challenge US defenses.

She highlighted that China and Russia are building advanced missile systems designed to avoid detection and interception. North Korea already has missiles that can reach the United States and is expanding its nuclear arsenal.

On Pakistan, Gabbard said that while the country mainly focuses on shorter-range missiles for regional defense, its work on longer-range missiles could eventually threaten the US. She stressed that growing cooperation between countries like China, Russia, and North Korea could make these threats even more serious.

Gabbard also noted that the total number of missiles worldwide that could strike the US is expected to increase in the coming years. She added that extremist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS remain dangerous in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, though their threat is smaller compared to state-backed programs.

Her warning comes as the US continues to monitor global nuclear developments and rethink defense strategies. Lawmakers and intelligence officials say these programs could change the balance of power and increase risks to American security.

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