1. ‘Hollow atom bomb threats won’t work’: PM Modi reveals India’s new three-point terror strategy, takes jab at Pakistan
2. Operation Sindoor: CDS Anil Chauhan says India suffered initial losses in the air, declines to give details
3. ‘Don’t shift the blame’: India slams Pakistan over Indus Waters Treaty, says terror, not water, is the real issue
4. Northeast set for economic take-off with Rs 1.12 lakh cr in investment commitments from Tata, Reliance
5. India eyes retaliation as US rejects WTO notice

What Else

1. RBI Annual Report Highlights Rise in Counterfeit Rs 500 Notes
2. Operation Sindoor: Kharge demands special parliament session, asks PM Modi to refrain from ‘self-praise’
3. Mamata Banerjee opposing Operation Sindoor to appease Muslim vote bank, says Amit Shah
4. NIA Chargesheets Two Maoists in Jharkhand Arms Recovery Case
5. Protest in Gilgit-Baltistan Continues for Third Day
6. Pakistan-Afghanistan Cooperation Reaffirmed
7. Pakistan: PM Shehbaz, Field Marshal Munir vow to crush ‘Indian-sponsored terror’ in Balochistan at grand jirga
8. Pakistan’s Water Crisis Deepens
9. ‘First red line must not be crossed’: China fumes over reports of US arms sales to Taiwan
10. Chinese admiral sacked as Xi’s purge of military brass continues, another CMC top dog still missing
11. Jamie Dimon’s Warning on China Tariffs and US Preparedness
12. ‘Took revenge for 1971’: Hafiz Saeed’s terror outfit JuD claims credit for Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in Bangladesh
13. Bangladesh drops Hasina’s father’s image from new currency: No more Mujib but Hindu, Buddhist temples:
14. Bangladesh: Arrest Warrants Issued Against Sheikh Hasina and Former Home Minister
15. Bangladesh Election Timeline Confirmed
16. Election is India’s agenda, this is a dangerous statement: Zonayed Saki
17. Sarjis asks for Army’s ‘clear stance and activities’ in fight against fascism
18. Nepal: Former Home Minister Kamal Thapa Detained Amid Pro-Monarchy Protests

‘Hollow atom bomb threats won’t work’: PM Modi reveals India’s new three-point terror strategy, takes jab at Pakistan

• PM Modi addressed a large crowd in Kanpur, highlighting India’s growing defense capabilities and self-reliance through initiatives like “Make in India” and “Aatmnirbhar Bharat”.
• He cited Operation Sindoor as an example, where India’s homegrown BrahMos missile demonstrated its destructive power in enemy territory. Key Points:
• Self-Reliance: Modi emphasized that becoming self-reliant is crucial for national dignity, not just economic growth.
• Terror Strategy: He outlined a three-point approach to terrorism:
• Response to Terror Attacks: Every attack will receive a response, with the Armed Forces deciding when and how.
• No Fear of Nuclear Threats: India won’t be intimidated by empty threats involving nuclear weapons.
• Accountability: Both terrorists and governments supporting them will be held accountable.
• Development Projects: Modi launched and laid the foundation stone for 15 development projects worth ₹47,600 crore in Kanpur, also flagging off a new metro corridor (more)

Operation Sindoor: CDS Anil Chauhan says India suffered initial losses in the air, declines to give details

• India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan confirmed that India suffered losses in the air during the four-day conflict with Pakistan, but didn’t specify the number.
• He said India “rectified” its tactics after the losses and launched precision strikes on Pakistani airbases with “pinpoint accuracy.”
• Gen Chauhan described Pakistan’s claim of downing six Indian jets as “absolutely incorrect.”
• The conflict began after India blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people.
• General Chauhan said India achieved its objectives and there was no danger of nuclear conflict between the two countries.
• He added that conventional operations have created a “new norm” and both sides displayed rationality during the conflict.
• General Chauhan also mentioned that around 80% of Pakistan’s equipment is procured from China, which likely provides maintenance and support.
• India’s govt praised the military’s successful operations, highlighting seamless integration of indigenous hi-tech systems and strategic strikes on terrorist infrastructure and airbases.
• The conflict ended with a ceasefire on May 10 after both sides agreed to stop hostilities. (more)
• Gen Chauhan highlighted India’s autonomy and operational clarity during Operation Sindoor, a non-contact, multi-domain conflict.
• He emphasized India’s strategic approach, rejecting “strategic aimlessness” and noting progress despite Pakistan’s challenges.
• Gen Chauhan discussed the role of indigenous systems, cyber operations, and satellite intelligence, stressing India’s self-reliance.
• He warned that reducing human cost in war may increase conflict escalation, and noted the importance of fact-based communication in disinformation warfare.
• The CDS also emphasized India’s focus on indigenous platforms and unified air defence systems, securing broader maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region. (more)

‘Don’t shift the blame’: India slams Pakistan over Indus Waters Treaty, says terror, not water, is the real issue

• India and Pakistan are locked in a dispute over the Indus Waters Treaty, a water-distribution agreement signed in 1960.
• India recently suspended the treaty following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which killed 26 people and was blamed on Pakistan-based militants. Key Points:
• India’s Stance: Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh claims Pakistan’s accusations of treaty violation are baseless and politically motivated.
• He emphasized that cross-border terrorism from Pakistan hinders India’s ability to fully utilize the treaty’s provisions.
• India suspended the treaty due to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.
• Pakistan warns of serious consequences and potential risks to millions of lives.
• The treaty regulates water sharing between India and Pakistan.
• The dispute highlights the complex relationship between the two countries.
• The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, allocates the eastern rivers to India and the western rivers to Pakistan.
• The World Bank acts as a guarantor, offering guarantees to attract private investment and commercial financing for development projects in developing countries. [Nohing else]
• The treaty aims to promote cooperation and the peaceful resolution of disputes. However, the current tensions between India and Pakistan have put the treaty’s future at risk (more)

Northeast set for economic take-off with Rs 1.12 lakh cr in investment commitments from Tata, Reliance

• India’s Northeastern states have secured over Rs 1.12 lakh crore in investment commitments from industry giants like Tata, Reliance, Adani, ITC, and Birla Group.
• The Rising North-East Investors Summit, held in New Delhi, aimed to position the region as India’s next economic powerhouse.
• Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the region’s impressive 12-13% annual growth rate, attributing it to infrastructure development and digital connectivity. Key investments:
• Reliance Industries: Rs 75,000 crore investment in Northeast over the next 5 years, focusing on biogas plants, telecom services, retail footprint, clean energy projects, and a 150-bed cancer hospital in Manipur.
• Adani Group: Additional Rs 50,000 crore investment over the next 10 years in green energy, roads, highways, and digital infrastructure across the Northeast.
• Tata Group: Rs 27,000 crore semiconductor facility in Assam, bringing cutting-edge technology to the region.
• The summit demonstrated the region’s potential for high-growth sectors, with foreign investors from countries like France showing interest in dairy, agriculture, aviation, and IT.
• The establishment of Investment Promotion Authorities in six states has streamlined approvals, making it easier for investors to operate in the region. (more)

India eyes retaliation as US rejects WTO notice

• The US has rejected India’s proposal to impose retaliatory tariffs on American goods at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in response to Washington’s steep import tariffs on Indian steel and aluminum.
• The US claims its tariffs, doubled to 50% on May 30 citing national security, aren’t safeguard measures and thus don’t warrant discussion.
• India may retaliate by suspending concessions on US imports like almonds and walnuts and levying higher customs duties on metals.
• This affects $4.56 billion worth of Indian iron, steel, and aluminum exports to the US.
• Both countries are working on a Bilateral Trade Agreement, with 2023 marking a resolution of six pending WTO disputes, including tariffs on steel and aluminum.
• Talks are ongoing to conclude an early harvest deal by this month (more)

RBI Annual Report Highlights Rise in Counterfeit Rs 500 Notes

• India’s Reserve Bank has reported a decline in the total number of counterfeit currency notes detected, with 2,17,396 fake notes found in FY25, down from 2,22,639 in FY24.
• However, there’s a concerning trend in the rise of counterfeit Rs 500 notes, which increased by 37.3% year-over-year to 1.18 lakh fake notes.
• Rs 200 notes also saw a rise in counterfeits, with 32,660 detected.
• In contrast, counterfeit Rs 2000 notes significantly decreased to 3,508 pieces, an 86.5% drop from the previous year.
• The RBI’s report highlights the dominance of Rs 500 notes in circulation, making up 40.9% of all currency and 80.6% of the total value.
• This raises questions about the effectiveness of demonetization in curbing counterfeiting.
• The RBI is responding with increased vigilance and promoting the digital rupee, whose value surged 334% in 2024-25. (more)

Operation Sindoor: Kharge demands special parliament session, asks PM Modi to refrain from ‘self-praise’

• Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has demanded a special Parliament session to discuss Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian Armed Forces in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people.
• Kharge criticized PM Modi, urging him to refrain from self-praise and election speeches, emphasizing unity in national matters and focus on defeating enemies. Key Points:
• Demand for Parliament Session: Congress demands a special Parliament session to discuss tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor.
• Criticism of PM Modi: Kharge urges PM Modi to avoid self-glorifying speeches and focus on national unity.
• National Security: Kharge emphasizes the need for unity in national matters and silence on matters of national security until official reports are out.
• Comprehensive Review: Congress demands a comprehensive review of India’s defense preparedness by an independent expert committee, similar to the Kargil Review Committee.
• Comparison with Pakistan: Kharge mentions that Pakistan has convened its Parliament to discuss similar matters, highlighting the need for India to do the same. (more)

Mamata Banerjee opposing Operation Sindoor to appease Muslim vote bank, says Amit Shah

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee for opposing Operation Sindoor, a military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, and the Waqf Amendment Act, accusing her of appeasing Muslim voters. [TMC office bearer is part of all-party delegation]
• Shah alleged the Murshidabad riots were “state-sponsored” and claimed TMC leaders were involved.
• He also accused Banerjee’s govt of facilitating illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, saying the TMC benefits from it to stay in power.
• Shah stated that the BJP can stop infiltration if given the required land, which the TMC govt hasn’t provided. This comes ahead of the 2026 assembly polls. (more)
• The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments on “Sindoor politics,” accusing him of politicizing the issue and highlighting the irony of his anti-corruption stance given Suvendu Adhikari’s presence in the BJP.
• TMC demands Shah’s resignation over Pahalgam security lapses. (more)

NIA Chargesheets Two Maoists in Jharkhand Arms Recovery Case

• The National Investigation Agency has chargesheeted two Maoists, Ranthu Oraon and Niraj Singh Kherwar, in a 2022 case related to the seizure of arms and ammunition in Jharkhand.
• The accused were part of a conspiracy to attack security forces in the Bauxite Mines Area to avenge the arrest of their top commander, Prashant Bose. Key Details:
• Charges: The duo has been chargesheeted under the Arms Act, Explosive Substance Act, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
• Incident: A joint search operation was launched by local police and CRPF personnel in Feb 2022, after which an encounter ensued, and a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized.
• Investigation: NIA found that the conspiracy aimed to carry out terrorist acts and armed rebellion to threaten national integrity, security, and sovereignty.
• Total Accused: With these two charge sheets, the total number of accused in the case has reached 25 (more)

[Neighborhood]

Protest in Gilgit-Baltistan Continues for Third Day

• Protesters in Gilgit-Baltistan have blocked the Karakoram Highway (KKH) for the third consecutive day, demanding relief from the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) policies.
• The protesters, led by traders and supported by political parties, claim the policies are “economically murdering” locals.
• They are seeking clearance of over 240 stuck consignments under a one-time amnesty scheme and facilitation of barter trade with China’s Xinjiang province.
• The protesters argue that despite paying taxes, they lack representation in parliament.
• Talks between protesters and government officials failed to yield results, with the government citing limitations in addressing the issue.
• The protest has caused thousands of passengers and tourists to be stranded, with the KKH remaining closed to traffic until the protesters’ demands are met.
• The issue is set to be discussed in an upcoming meeting of the apex committee. (more)

Pakistan-Afghanistan Cooperation Reaffirmed

• Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi reaffirmed their commitment to the Uzbek-Afghan-Pak (UAP) Railway Line Project, a vital step for enhancing regional connectivity.
• In a phone conversation, they underscored the project’s strategic importance and agreed to work closely to finalize its framework agreement.
• The ministers also reviewed the implementation of key decisions taken during Dar’s visit to Kabul in April and reiterated their shared commitment to strengthening mutual trust and cooperation.
• Additionally, Muttaqi welcomed Pakistan’s decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Kabul to the ambassadorial level and confirmed Afghanistan would reciprocate.
• The two sides also discussed managing cross-border security, combating militancy, and strengthening bilateral trade, and agreed to finalize a joint committee to address counterterrorism and border management concerns. (more)

Pakistan: PM Shehbaz, Field Marshal Munir vow to crush ‘Indian-sponsored terror’ in Balochistan at grand jirga

• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir addressed a tribal jirga in Quetta, reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism and countering what they described as Indian-sponsored proxy warfare in Balochistan.
• They emphasized the need for sustained grassroots engagement to isolate terrorist groups and ensure development initiatives reach the local population.
• The leaders praised the role of tribal elders in preserving national unity and lauded the bravery of security personnel.
• They pledged to bring those responsible for terrorism to justice and assured support for the families of martyrs.
• The jirga concluded with a unanimous pledge from tribal elders to stand with the government and armed forces in promoting peace, security, and development in Balochistan.
• The leaders stressed that peace in the province is crucial for Pakistan’s stability and prosperity. (more)

‘First red line must not be crossed’: China fumes over reports of US arms sales to Taiwan

• China has strongly criticized the US over reported plans to increase weapons sales to Taiwan, calling it a “dangerous move” that could worsen regional tensions.
• Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged the US to adhere to the one-China principle and warned that the Taiwan question is central to China’s national interests, representing a “first red line” that must not be crossed in China-US relations. Key Points:
• Reported Arms Sales: The US plans to approve over $18.65 billion in military sales to Taiwan, exceeding Trump’s first-term sales, with potential packages including missiles, munitions, and drones.
• China’s Reaction: Lin emphasized China’s unwavering determination to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning the US to stop creating new factors that could lead to tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
• Current Tensions: Despite recent trade truce talks between the US and China, tensions have risen again, with the US revoking some Chinese student visas and imposing tighter technology restrictions.
• US Defence Secretary’s Visit: Pete Hegseth is attending the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore, seeking support from allies to counter China, while Beijing has sent a lower-level delegation (more)

Chinese admiral sacked as Xi’s purge of military brass continues, another CMC top dog still missing

• Admiral Miao Hua, a member of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC), has been removed from the National People’s Congress due to “suspected serious violations of discipline and law”.
• This indicates more severe charges than initially reported.
• Miao was suspended in Nov and is the seventh CMC member to be removed since President Xi Jinping assumed power in 2012.
• Meanwhile, General He Weidong, Second Vice Chairman of the CMC, has been missing since March, sparking speculation.
• Xi’s anti-corruption drive has led to the removal of several senior military officials, including two former defense ministers.
• Miao’s career was shaped by Xi, and he was once the youngest admiral in the PLA.
• The CMC oversees China’s armed forces, and Xi’s push for ideological loyalty within the military has been a key aspect of his leadership.
• The cases against Miao and He Weidong reflect Xi’s ongoing efforts to consolidate power and purge the military of corruption. (more)

Pakistan’s Water Crisis Deepens

• Pakistan is facing a severe water shortage before the kharif sowing season due to low water storage in its two key dams, Mangla and Tarbela. The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has reported a 21% overall shortage in water flow and a 50% shortage in live storage.
• India’s regulation of water flow from the Chenab River has further exacerbated the situation.
• Pakistan’s farming operations, particularly in Punjab and Sindh provinces, heavily rely on irrigation canals linked to the Indus River system.
• With India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan is concerned about managing floods and water scarcity.
• The situation may improve with monsoon rainfall, but Pakistan’s agriculture will remain vulnerable to India’s water flow regulation. (more)

Jamie Dimon’s Warning on China Tariffs and US Preparedness

• JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has issued a stark warning to the US government regarding China’s resilience in the ongoing trade conflict.
• Dimon cautions against underestimating China’s determination and preparedness, stating that they “are not scared” and will not bow to American pressure.
• He highlights China’s ability to address challenges with significant resources, citing their practice of assigning 100,000 engineers to problems they’ve been preparing for years.
• Dimon also expresses concerns about the US’s readiness for future global conflicts, particularly in military strength.
• He notes that the US has limited missile supplies, enough for only seven days in the event of a war in the South China Sea.
• Dimon emphasizes the need for urgent action, stating that the US knows what to do but needs to take action.
• His warning serves as a call to rethink US assumptions on global economics and geopolitical preparedness. (more)

‘Took revenge for 1971’: Hafiz Saeed’s terror outfit JuD claims credit for Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in Bangladesh

• Senior leaders of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), a Pakistan-based extremist group founded by 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, claim responsibility for ousting Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
• JuD leaders Saifullah Kasuri and Muzammil Hashmi, a UN-designated terrorist, made public speeches stating they took revenge for Pakistan’s dismemberment in 1971.
• Kasuri said, “We have taken the revenge of 1971,” referring to the 2024 unrest in Dhaka. Hashmi claimed, “We defeated you in Bangladesh last year,” addressing Indian leadership.
• These claims expose Pakistan’s alleged support for extremist elements, drawing international scrutiny.
• Former Pakistani diplomat Husain Haqqani noted that such rhetoric makes it hard to believe Pakistan’s assertions about no longer sponsoring jihadi groups.
• The JuD leaders’ statements come amid improved diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh after Hasina’s departure. (more)

Bangladesh drops Hasina’s father’s image from new currency: No more Mujib but Hindu, Buddhist temples:

• Bangladesh has introduced new banknotes that no longer feature Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding father and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s father.
• The redesigned notes showcase natural landscapes and traditional landmarks, highlighting Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. The new designs include:
• New Features: Hindu and Buddhist temples; Historical palaces; Artwork of late painter Zainul Abedin, depicting the Bengal famine; National Martyrs’ Memorial, honoring those who died in the 1971 Liberation War.
• The Bangladesh Bank has released notes in three denominations so far, with the remaining denominations to be introduced in phases.
• Existing notes will continue to circulate alongside the new ones.
• This change marks a significant shift in the country’s history and symbolic identity following Sheikh Hasina’s ousting last year (more)

Bangladesh: Arrest Warrants Issued Against Sheikh Hasina and Former Home Minister

• The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan for crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising.
• The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, ordered the accused to be presented before the court on June 16.
• Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan have fled the country, while the then-Inspector General of Police, Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, is already in custody in connection with the case.
• The tribunal registered a case against the three accused after formal charges were submitted, alleging five counts of crimes against humanity.
• This is one of three cases filed against Sheikh Hasina in the reconstituted tribunal, which also includes cases over enforced disappearances and killings during the Awami League rule and the killing incident at the Hefazat-e-Islam rally in 2013.
• The investigation agency submitted its report to the Chief Prosecutor’s Office on May 12, leading to the formal charges being submitted to the tribunal. (more)

Bangladesh Election Timeline Confirmed

• Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, has confirmed that Bangladesh’s national election will take place between Dec 2025 and Jun 2026, with June 30, 2026, being the deadline.
• Alam emphasized that the election could occur in any month within this timeframe but will not extend beyond June 30.
• This announcement follows meetings between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and various political parties, where Yunus reiterated his commitment to handing over power to an elected govt by the deadline [But it was Dec 2025]
• The interim govt has been working on electoral and governance reforms, and the election timeline depends on the pace of these reforms.
• Yunus has also formed a task force to pursue the goal of sending 100,000 skilled workers to Japan over the next 5 years, following a recent visit to Japan where several MoUs were signed, including a USD 418 million Development Policy Loan. (more)

Election is India’s agenda, this is a dangerous statement: Zonayed Saki

• Ganosamhati Andolan’s chief coordinator Zonayed Saki warned that propagating the notion that elections in Bangladesh are driven by India’s agenda is dangerous and could divide the people.
• He emphasized the need for trials, reforms, and elections.
• Other party leaders, including Saiful Haque and Mojibur Rahman, criticized the chief adviser for alleged divisions and a lack of a clear roadmap for reforms and elections.
• Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Army protested an article by an Indian news outlet, Northeast News, claiming it was a deliberate attempt to destabilize the country and undermine the armed forces.
• The army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and integrity, denouncing the article as part of a smear campaign.
• Various political parties and leaders expressed their views on the need for elections and reforms, amid tensions with India. (more, more)

Sarjis asks for Army’s ‘clear stance and activities’ in fight against fascism

• National Citizen Party leader Sarjis Alam has questioned the Bangladesh Army’s commitment to fighting fascism, citing their response to a recent incident at Jatiya Party chairman GM Quader’s residence in Rangpur.
• Alam expressed concern over the army’s seemingly exaggerated response to a minor fire incident while appearing to overlook alleged atrocities by Awami League ‘goons’.
• He demanded clarity on the army’s stance and actions against fascism, particularly regarding the arrest of Awami League members and the recovery of public assets usurped by them.
• Alam emphasized the need for the army to take a firm stance. (more)

Nepal: Former Home Minister Kamal Thapa Detained Amid Pro-Monarchy Protests

• Former Home Minister and Rastriya Prajatantra Party-Nepal (RPP-Nepal) chair Kamal Thapa was detained by police in Kathmandu’s Naxal-Narayanchaur area on Saturday.
• The arrest occurred amidst ongoing pro-monarchy demonstrations led by RPP-Nepal and other royalist groups, who have been protesting since May 29.
• The groups are demanding the restoration of the monarchy, which was abolished in 2008.
• Thapa was taken into custody for violating a restricted zone order around the Narayanhiti Palace Museum area, designated by the District Administration Office until July 8.
• Despite restrictions, royalist groups continued to hold rallies in central Kathmandu, prompting police intervention.
• The demonstrations shifted to Baluwatar and surrounding areas after the restrictions were enforced.
• The police action against Thapa is part of the authorities’ efforts to manage the protests and maintain order in the capital.
• The pro-monarchy protests continue, with the royalist groups determined to push for the reinstatement of the monarchy. (more)