Tuesday, March 10
Heavy rains triggered a devastating landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 32 lives. The disaster prompted the suspension of the Vaishno Devi yatra and the cancellation of numerous train services. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah briefed the Union Home Minister on the situation and is closely monitoring relief efforts.
Following Donald Trump's renewed assertion of mediating an India-Pakistan ceasefire to avert a "nuclear war," Congress MP Manickam Tagore criticized Prime Minister Modi's silence as a "surrender," demanding clarification. Tagore questioned Modi's reticence on Trump's claims, contrasting it with his usual loquacity.
Foreign secretary Vikram Misri emphasized Quad's role in Indo-Pacific peace and development as PM Modi prepares to visit Japan. The US and India reaffirmed their commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific through Quad. Modi and Ishiba will discuss Quad cooperation, aiming to upgrade security cooperation and boost defense ties, while Japan plans a $68 billion investment in India.
Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh cautioned against hastily implementing theatre commands, advocating for an India-specific model. He proposed establishing a joint planning and coordination center in Delhi under the Chiefs of Staff Committee to prepare for future conflicts. Singh emphasized learning from Operation Sindoor's success, highlighting inter-service coordination.
Heavy monsoon rains triggered a landslide on the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine route in Jammu and Kashmir, injuring at least six. The yatra has been suspended, and trains to Katra cancelled. Widespread disruption continues across the region with landslides blocking the Jammu-Srinagar highway and cloudbursts causing flash floods in Doda.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, advanced stealth frigates, in Visakhapatnam, significantly boosting India's maritime capabilities. Singh highlighted the Navy's crucial role in safeguarding national economic security, especially in the Indian Ocean. He also referenced 'Operation Sindoor' as a firm response to terrorism.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat asserted that Indians share a common DNA for over 40,000 years, emphasising harmony as India's cultural essence. Speaking at an event in New Delhi, he highlighted unity in diversity and the importance of devotion to Bharat Mata.
The proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, intended to automatically remove arrested leaders, faces opposition accusations of being a tool to destabilize non-BJP governments. Kapil Sibal criticized the government's "constitutional morality" pitch citing instances of alleged misuse of investigative agencies like the ED against opposition leaders.
