Digest for 28 August, 2025
US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Goods, Sparking Economic and Diplomatic Fallout
The US has imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, escalating a trade dispute linked to India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The move impacts over half of Indian exports to its largest market, hitting sectors like textiles and jewellery. In response, India has extended duty-free cotton imports until December 31 to aid its textile industry, which faces losses estimated at ₹3,000 crore in Tamil Nadu alone. While government sources state diplomatic channels are open, officials are also strategizing export diversification to 40 new markets.
Death Toll from Vaishno Devi Landslide Rises to 34 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts
The death toll from a massive landslide on the pilgrimage route to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir has risen to 34, with at least 23 others injured. The disaster, triggered by record-breaking rainfall, occurred near Ardhkuwari. Rescue operations involving the Army, CRPF, and local police are continuing as more pilgrims are feared trapped under the debris. The pilgrimage has been suspended, and rail services to Katra have been disrupted due to widespread flooding and soil erosion in the region.
Bihar on High Alert as Three Suspected Pakistani Terrorists Enter from Nepal
Bihar Police have issued a statewide high alert following intelligence that three suspected Pakistani terrorists have entered the state via Nepal. Security agencies have circulated sketches and passport details of the individuals, identified as Hasnain Ali, Adil Hussain, and Mohammad Usman. Security has been intensified in border districts, particularly ahead of upcoming state elections. The alert has raised concerns about potential disruptions and terror funding, prompting an intensive search operation and calls for public vigilance.
ISRO Begins Construction of Second Spaceport for Small Satellite Launches
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has commenced construction of a new rocket launch pad at its second spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu. The facility, being built on 2,233 acres, is designed to handle 20-25 launches annually, primarily for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) carrying payloads up to 500 kg. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated the project is expected to be completed by December 2026, boosting India's capacity for commercial and private satellite launches.
Minneapolis School Shooter's Weapon Bore 'Nuke India' Message
A shooter who killed two children and injured 17 people at a Minneapolis Catholic school reportedly had "Nuke India" written on one of his firearms. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, also had other extremist messages on the weapons, including "Kill Donald Trump" and "Israel Must Fall." The chilling anti-India slogan has drawn attention to the shooter's motivations, which the FBI is investigating as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime.