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India’s ship safety certifier, IRClass, will no longer certify vessels owned by Iranian or Russian entities due to Western sanctions. The organization has de-classed 235 ships since 2023 and removed 13 million gross tons of sanctioned tonnage. However, IRClass acknowledges limited control over cargo movements after certification.

Speculation is mounting over a Union Cabinet reshuffle following recent changes in BJP’s state units and Rajya Sabha ticket allocations. Prime Minister Modi may soon induct a new team, with some current ministers potentially moving to party roles. This comes as the BJP prepares for upcoming assembly elections, particularly in Punjab.

French Ambassador Thierry Mathou emphasizes India’s indispensable role in the G7, highlighting its participation in discussions on economic imbalances and global governance reform. He also suggests India’s involvement in a defensive mission for the Strait of Hormuz would send a powerful signal.

Officials say West Asia crisis hit April tea export; Tea Board eyes matching last year’s shipment  ThePrint

TMC leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad challenged dissident MPs to resign and join BJP, questioning claims of support for a separate bloc. Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee met Sonia Gandhi to discuss party challenges and strengthen the INDIA alliance. Rebel MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar remained silent amidst speculation.

Punjab’s Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has unveiled a bold vision for the state as a premier startup ecosystem, showcasing the government’s support for innovative thinkers. During a recent ceremony, he allocated Rs 1.07 crore in seed funding to 31 promising startups spanning sectors like agriculture and AI.

In a significant move for regional consistency, the geographical scope of the National Capital Region will remain intact. The NCR Planning Board is poised to dismiss Haryana’s request to divest five districts, despite the state’s assertions of economic disadvantage.

The Election Commission is set to meet a Congress delegation regarding the rejection of Meenakshi Natarajan’s Rajya Sabha nomination from Madhya Pradesh. Congress alleges the BJP is destroying democracy by rejecting the nomination, citing concealed information about a Telangana case as the reason. Madhya Pradesh CM welcomed the decision, urging Congress introspection.

During the Bonn climate negotiations, India urged advanced economies to amplify their commitments to emission reductions while significantly increasing climate finance. New Delhi emphasized that for developing countries, securing ‘carbon space’ is crucial to effectively tackle poverty and promote sustainable progress.