Operation Tiger 'Roars' Again: Sena (UBT) MLC is Shinde's Nominee
In a significant political development, the 'Operation Tiger' strategy has resurfaced as a Maharashtra Legislative Council member from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction has been nominated by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. This move underscores the ongoing realignments within Maharashtra politics, with the Shinde-led faction consolidating its position by drawing members from the rival UBT group. The nomination is seen as a strategic win for Shinde, who broke away from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena in 2022.
India Records Fifth Driest June Since 1901
India has experienced its fifth driest June since 1901, with monsoon rains lagging significantly. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the country received only 64% of its normal rainfall for the month, leading to concerns over water availability and agricultural output. The deficit is particularly acute in central and western regions, where rainfall was 30-40% below average. The IMD has attributed the shortfall to weak monsoon currents and the absence of strong low-pressure systems.
Impact on Agriculture and Water Resources
The rainfall deficit has raised alarms for the kharif crop season, with sowing of key crops like paddy, pulses, and oilseeds delayed. Farmers in states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh are facing acute water stress, with reservoir levels dropping to critically low levels. The government has announced contingency plans, including cloud seeding in some states, but experts warn that the situation could worsen if July does not bring adequate rains. The IMD has forecast normal rainfall for July, but the current deficit may be hard to overcome.
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In other news, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea challenging the appointment of the new Election Commissioner. The Delhi government has launched a drive to clear unauthorised colonies, affecting thousands of residents. Meanwhile, the stock market closed flat after a volatile session, with IT and banking stocks dragging indices lower. The rupee weakened against the dollar, settling at 83.50.
