Rahul Gandhi Attacks Centre Over LPG Price Hike
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Centre over rising inflation, highlighting a steep Rs 993 single-day increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices. He claimed that prices have surged by Rs 1,380 since February, marking an 81% rise in three months, and termed it the "election bill." Gandhi warned that this surge would severely impact small businesses such as tea stalls, hotels, and bakeries, while also burdening household expenses. He further alleged that petrol and diesel prices could rise after polling concludes in several states, exacerbating the financial strain on citizens.
Noida International Airport to Begin Operations June 15
Commercial flight operations at Noida International Airport in Jewar will commence on June 15, marking the launch of a major aviation hub in the National Capital Region. IndiGo will operate the first flight, with Akasa Air and Air India Express expected to follow shortly. The airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has received security clearance and features modern terminal infrastructure with multimodal connectivity. Developed by Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd, it currently has one runway and a capacity of 12 million passengers annually, aiming to boost regional connectivity, trade, and tourism across North India.
Punjab CM Accused of Being Drunk in Assembly; Opposition Demands Alcohol Test
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has come under fire after opposition leaders accused him of arriving at the Assembly under the influence of alcohol. Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa demanded alco-meter and dope tests for all MLAs, while BJP MP Swati Maliwal also called for an alcohol test and his removal if proven guilty. The controversy erupted shortly after Maliwal's exit from the Aam Aadmi Party. Similar allegations had surfaced in 2022, including claims of an incident abroad, which the ruling party dismissed as baseless. The opposition is pressing for a thorough investigation to maintain the dignity of the legislative process.
Air India to Cut Nearly 100 Daily Flights Due to Rising Jet Fuel Prices
Air India plans to reduce nearly 100 daily flights from its 1,100-flight schedule as rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices and operational costs strain its finances. The reductions will primarily affect international routes to Europe, North America, Australia, and Singapore. Jet fuel prices for international operations increased by over 5%, marking a second consecutive monthly hike, while domestic rates remain unchanged. Longer routes due to the closure of Pakistani airspace have further escalated fuel and crew costs. With fuel accounting for approximately 40% of expenses, the airline faces mounting pressure to curb losses exceeding Rs 20,000 crore, prompting a strategic downsizing of its network.
Russia Successfully Test Launches Soyuz-5 Rocket
Russia has successfully carried out the first test launch of its Soyuz-5 rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, signaling a key step in modernizing its space program. The next-generation launch vehicle can carry payloads of up to 17 metric tonnes and is designed to improve efficiency while reducing launch costs. Roscosmos described it as a major upgrade, with chief Dmitry Bakanov calling it a new step in space exploration. The rocket, equipped with what is touted as the world's most powerful liquid-fueled engine, is also expected to boost employment and strengthen Russia's competitiveness in the global space sector, marking a significant milestone in its aerospace ambitions.
